Unexpected bony structure in tonsillar fossa during tonsillectomy

Abstract

Introduction. The elongated styloid process is a very rare clinical entity. In most cases it is asymptomatic, but also could cause Eagle’s syndrome. We presented a rare case of the anatomic variation of styloid process and its clinical implication. Case report. In the left tonsillar fossa an unexpected bony structure was found during the routine tonsillectomy on a 16-year-old female patient. Computed tomography showed the elongated styloid process. No further treatment was necessary because it was asymptomatic in the follow-up period. Conclusion. The elongated styloid process is a very rare condition, but physicians should be aware of it and keep it in mind in order to make the diagnosis in patients with suggestive symptoms.

Keywords

• temporomandibular joint disorders
• ossification, heterotopic
• diagnostic techniques and procedures
• tonsillectomy