Kiely M L, Sawyer D R, Gowgiel J M
Department of Anatomy, National College of Chiropractic, Lombard, Illinois 60148, USA.
Clin Anat. 1995;8(5):359-62. doi: 10.1002/ca.980080509.
A bilateral ossified stylohyoid ligament was observed in a cadaver specimen. On the left side, the stylohyoid chain was markedly enlarged. The stylohyoid ligament was completely ossified into two segments separated by a diarthrodial-like joint. An articulation was also observed between the enlarged styloid process and the ossified ligament. On the right side, the styloid process had a normal appearance. The middle part of the stylohyoid ligament was ossified and it was attached to the styloid process and to the hyoid bone by a fibrous band. Proposed theories to account for the ossification of this ligament are discussed. Since the presence of an enlarged and ossified stylohyoid chain can cause much discomfort and pain, a greater understanding of the causative factors responsible for this anomaly is needed to provide for more effective diagnosis and treatment.
