Evaluation of the Elongation and Calcification Patterns of the Styloid Process with Digital Panoramic Radiography

Introdouction:The styloid process(SP) has the potential for calcification and ossification. The aim of this study was to investigate the prevalence of different patterns of elongation and calcification of the SP. In this cross-sectional study, 400 digital panoramic radiographs taken for routine dental examination in the dental school of Shiraz University were evaluated for the radiographic features of an elongated styloid process (ESP). The apparent length of SP was measured with Scanora software on panoramic of 350 patient who met the study criteria, (204 females and 146 males). Lengths greater than 30mm were consider as ESP. ESP were also classified into three types based on Langlais classification (elongated, pseudo articulated; and segmented). Data were analyzed by the Chi squared tests and Student’s t-tests. ESP was confirmed in 153 patients including 78 males and 75 females (43.7%). The prevalence of ESP was significantly higher in males. 53.8% of males and 36.8% of female patients has ESP (P value < 0.05). ESP was also significantly more common in the older age group (p < 0.05). There was no statistically significant difference between the occurrence of unilateral and bilateral ESP (p > 0.05).Type I and Type II ossification pattern had almost equal frequency (42.5% and 43.8% respectively) ESP and calcification of stylohyoid ligament can be easily detected in panoramic radiograghs and is more common in older patients.