Introduction:

Stylohyoid chain ossification is a rare entity characterized by severe neuropathic pain in the facial region secondary to mechanical compression of neurovascular structures of the neck. Traditionally it is a pathology that requires otorhinolaryngological management, although in some cases the intervention of the head and neck surgeon is necessary. That is why in this article we present the management of a patient with this pathology.

Clinical case:

Our case is a 65-year-old woman who consulted for severe neck and facial pain secondary to the ossification of the stylohyoid complex and the requirement for surgical management. By means of cervicotomy the ossified piece is extracted, without any perioperative complication and favorable results.

Discussion:

Stylohyoid chain ossification is a rare pathology, with a nonspecific clinical picture which can lead to potentially fatal circumstances. To reach the diagnosis, the surgeon is required to have a high degree of suspicion and confirmation with a neck CT scan with 3D reconstruction. The treatment for this entity is usually surgical, although medical management has also been described.

There are no studies reported in the medical literature comparing the diagnostic and therapeutic methods for this entity, so that until today, major controversies in this regard still remains. It becomes necessary new research in this field.

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