The styloid process syndrome: aetiological factors and surgical management.

The literature on the syndromes associated with the styloid process is reviewed. The anatomy and embryology of the styloid apparatus are then discussed in relation to the development of these conditions; attention is drawn to the significance of elongation of the process. Eighty styloids measured at post-mortem examination enabled a mean length to be determined as well as a range of normals. The possible aetiological factors are then listed. Four cases of elongated styloid process are described, three treated by excision via an external approach and the fourth presenting as an asymptomatic lump in the neck, not requiring treatment. The authors' preference for the external approach is explained.