The masticator space: the influence of CT scanning on therapy

The masticator space is an important suprahyoid tissue compartment bounded by the superficial layer of the deep cervical fascia, enclosing the ramus of the mandible plus the masseteric and pterygoid muscles. Pathology of this space has been clinically difficult to diagnose and treat. Twenty-five patients with either tumor or infection involving the masticator space who underwent CT scanning were evaluated retrospectively. Ten patients had infection and 15 had tumor. CT was influential in directing appropriate biopsies or therapy in 24 of 25 patients. It misguided therapy once. The gross anatomic and CT appearance of the normal and the diseased masticator space is described along with pictures of representative cases. A discussion is given of the advantages, disadvantages, and pitfalls of computerized tomography of the masticator space.