Three-dimensional relationship between the hyoid bone and the stylohyoid complex: a cone-beam computed tomography...

Area of Science:

• Anatomy
• Radiology
• Anthropology

Background:

• Hyoid bone morphology and stylohyoid complex morphometry are crucial anatomical features.
• Understanding their variations and relationships is important for clinical and anthropological studies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the relationship between hyoid bone morphology and stylohyoid complex morphometry using cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT).
• To investigate the influence of age and sex on these anatomical characteristics.

Main Methods:

• A retrospective CBCT analysis of 338 individuals was conducted.
• Hyoid bone morphology, styloid process length, angulation, elongation type, and calcification patterns were assessed.
• A novel lesser horn-body angle was measured to analyze its relationship with stylohyoid complex anatomy.

Main Results:

• No significant associations were found between hyoid bone morphology and styloid process characteristics.
• Significant sex-related differences were observed in styloid process length and angulation, with males exhibiting greater dimensions.
• Age-related differences were identified in styloid process elongation types, with specific types associated with younger or older age groups.

Conclusions:

• CBCT confirmed bilateral symmetry in stylohyoid complex morphology and angulation.
• Sex and age significantly influence specific stylohyoid complex characteristics, but not hyoid bone morphology.
• The lesser horn-body angle shows reproducibility, though its clinical significance requires further investigation.