Use of an intraoperative navigation system and piezoelectric surgery for styloidectomy in a patient with Eagle’s syndrome: a case report

BACKGROUND: Elongated styloid process syndrome (Eagle’s syndrome) is the term given to the symptomatic elongation of the styloid process or the mineralization of the stylohyoid or stylomandibular ligament. The two commonly used approaches for the surgical treatment of this syndrome are the transcervical and transoral approaches. Both have their limitations and specific intraoperative risks. Here, we report the treatment of a patient with Eagle’s syndrome using the transoral approach in conjunction with piezoelectric surgery, surgical planning, and intraoperative navigation to reduce the risk of complications. CASE PRESENTATION: The elongated styloid process was resected in a 45-year-old Japanese man using a minimally invasive approach with an intraoperative navigation system. Preoperative preparation involved the use of a custom interocclusal splint to produce the mouth opening conditions required during surgery. Using the three-dimensional position of the navigation probe, the location of the elongated styloid process was identified. After confirmation of the resection spot via the transoral approach, the styloid process was dissected by piezoelectric surgery. Follow-up examination showed an uneventful recovery with no associated complications. CONCLUSION: The resection of the styloid process using an intraoperative navigation system and a custom interocclusal splint during a transoral approach, together with a piezoelectric cutting device, is safe and effective for the treatment of Eagle’s syndrome.