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Prevalence of morphological and structural changes in the stylohyoid chain
Ana-Cristina-Alves Guimarães1, Daniel-Humberto Pozza2, Antônio-Sérgio Guimarães3
1MSc in Orofacial Pain and TMD, Faculdade São Leopoldo Mandic, Rua Dr. José Rocha Junqueira, 13 - 13045-755 - Campinas, Brazil.
Journal of Clinical and Experimental Dentistry
|December 2, 2020
Summary
Alterations in the stylohyoid chain, such as elongation or calcification, are common incidental findings, particularly in older individuals. These changes, often bilateral, occur more frequently in females and on the right side.
Area of Science:
- Dentofacial Radiology
- Anatomy
- Radiographic Imaging
Background:
- Stylohyoid chain alterations, including calcification and elongation, are typically incidental radiographic findings.
- These anatomical variations involve the stylohyoid process and ligament.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the prevalence of morphological and structural changes within the stylohyoid chain.
- Analysis of 4413 digital panoramic radiographs to assess stylohyoid chain variations.
Main Methods:
- Evaluation of digital panoramic radiographs by a dentofacial radiologist.
- Data collection included patient demographics, side of occurrence, measurements, and classification of elongation or calcification.
Main Results:
- 6.2% of subjects (275/4413) exhibited stylohyoid chain alterations, predominantly bilateral.
- Elongation was more common than calcification, with the right side more frequently affected. Prevalence increased with age.
- Females represented 67.6% of affected individuals, while males accounted for 32.4%.
Conclusions:
- The most frequent stylohyoid chain alterations are bilateral elongation, with prevalence increasing with age.
- While incidence is low, clinicians should recognize these findings during routine radiographic examinations.
- Awareness of stylohyoid chain variations is crucial for accurate diagnosis and patient management.
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