detection of eagle's syndrome with three-dimensional multidetector computerized tomography [CT]

ABSTRACT

Eagle's Syndrome is caused by elongation of the styloid process or ossification of the stylohyoid ligament. We aimed to evaluate the contribution of 3-Dimensional Multidetector CT findings on Eagle's syndrome. Three-Dimensional Multidetector CT were performed on 13 patients with Eagle's syndrome. Maximum intensity projection [MIP] and volume rendering [VR] images having optimal resolution in all patients were obtained using 3D reconstructions on work-station. Styloid process and its extension, and stylohyoid ligament were evaluated. A styloid processes e"3cm were accepted to be longer than normal. We also had a control group of patients which consisted of ten patients who had no complaints of dysphagia, throat pain, or foreign body sensation in the throat. Elongation of the styloid process was revealed by 3D VR imaging in all patients. We found elongated styloid process bilaterally in two patients. Elongation of the styloid process was clearly revealed by 3D VR imaging in high contrast and spatial resolution under the anatomic orientation like conventional X-ray in all patients. The diagnosis of Eagle's syndrome was confirmed surgically in four of 13 patients. We conclude that 3D VR imaging is a valuable diagnostic method in detecting elongated styloid process