Evaluating the relation between the elongated styloid process and the ponticulus posticus using cone-beam computed tomography.

Abstract

Ponticlus posticus (PP) as a one of the cervical vertebra variations brings about symptoms similar to Eagle syndrome. This study aimed to determine the relationship between elongated styloid process (ESP) and PP in a group of Iranian patients using cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) images. The CBCT images of 349 patients (118 males and 231 females; mean age: 32.53 ± 14.143) were involved in this study. The atlas vertebra was investigated for the presence and classification of PP (partial or complete) in sagittal views. Also, the styloid process was evaluated for the presence of ESP in reconstructed panoramic and three-dimensional images. Data were analysed using Mann-Whitney test, Fisher's exact test, and Chi-square test to assess the relationship between the presence of PP and ESP with regard to age and gender. Ponticulus posticus was observed in 24.5% of patients with ESP and 31.98% of patients without ESP. There was no significant relationship between the presence of PP and ESP (p = 0.198). Twenty-five patients with ESP showed PP; cases of ESP with either side and opposite side PP were 7.84% and 1.96%, respectively. Cases of bilateral ESP and PP were predominant (14.70%). The mean age of patients with bilateral ESP and PP was higher than others. There was no significant difference between males and females (p = 0.456). Considering the prevalence and characteristics of PP in the case and control groups, there was no significant relationship between PP and ESP.