Ossified stylohyoid ligament: A case report

ABSTRACT

Stylohyoid ligament, lesser cornu of hyoid bone and styloid process form stylohyoid complex derived from cartilage of 2nd pharyngeal arch. The anatomy of the ossified stylohyoid ligament and styloid process has immense embryological and clinical importance. The present report is of a fully ossified stylohyoid ligament on right side in an adult male cadaver. On the left side the stylohyoid ligament was remain unossified. Stylohyoid ligament in adults may retain its embryonic cartilage and thus has the potential of ossification. Abnormalities of stylohyoid complex may compress nearby neurovascular structures leading to mild to severe symptoms, such as foreign body sensation and pain in throat, etc. Dentists, otolaryngologists and anesthetists should be aware of the natural variations of the styloid process.