The role of 3D-printing technology in the diagnosis of Eagle syndrome: A case report

RATIONALE: Eagle syndrome is a rare clinical condition that can be associated with elongation of the styloid process. PATIENT CONCERN: A 55-year-old man was presented with vague throat discomfort for several years. DIAGNOSIS: 3-dimentional (3D) computed tomography (CT) reconstruction, and printing revealed bilateral elongated styloid processes. INTERVENTIONS: The patient has been treated medically, and continues to demonstrate improvement with conservative treatment for 2 years. OUTCOME: We report usefulness of 3D CT and 3D printing technology for diagnosis of Eagle syndrome. LESSONS: 3D CT reconstruction, and printing are beneficial in determining appropriate surgical strategy, and allowing the physician to better explain the lesion, and surgical details to patients.