Dr. Shrekha Padmakshan

Styloidectomy

Styloidectomy is a surgical procedure used to treat Eagle Syndrome — a condition caused by an elongated styloid process or calcified stylohyoid ligament. It helps relieve chronic throat pain, facial pain, difficulty swallowing, ear pain, and foreign body sensation by shortening or removing the abnormal bone structure.

What is Styloidectomy?

Styloidectomy is the surgical shortening or removal of the styloid process — a thin bone located just below the ear that can become elongated and irritate nearby nerves and blood vessels. The procedure can be done through the mouth (transoral) or through a small incision in the neck (external approach), depending on the case.

Symptoms of Eagle Syndrome

Chronic throat pain that worsens on swallowing
Ear pain or fullness without ear disease
Foreign body sensation in the throat
Jaw pain or facial pain
Headache, neck pain, or pain while turning the head
In severe cases, dizziness or vascular symptoms

Causes of Eagle Syndrome

Elongated styloid process (longer than 30 mm)
Calcified or stiff stylohyoid ligament
Post-tonsillectomy scar causing nerve irritation
Trauma to the neck or facial bones

Diagnosis & Tests

Clinical examination and palpation of the tonsillar fossa
X-ray of skull or neck showing elongated styloid process
CT Scan with 3D reconstruction for accurate measurement
Diagnostic local anaesthetic injection to confirm pain source

Styloidectomy Procedure

Styloidectomy is performed under general anaesthesia. The surgical method depends on the length of the bone, symptoms, and surgeon preference.

1. Transoral (Intraoral) Approach

No external scar
Mouth incision near tonsillar area
Shortened or removed styloid bone

2. External (Cervical) Approach

Small incision in the neck
Better exposure and precision for complex cases

Both approaches help relieve nerve irritation and restore comfortable swallowing and jaw movement.

Aftercare Following Styloidectomy

Soft diet for a few days
Avoid strenuous neck movements temporarily
Pain medications and antibiotics as prescribed
Report severe pain, swelling, or difficulty swallowing immediately

Why Choose Dr. Shrekha Padmakshan?

Dr. Shrekha Padmakshan provides precise diagnosis and advanced surgical management of Eagle Syndrome with high success rates and minimal complications.

Expertise in both intraoral & external styloidectomy
Use of advanced imaging for accurate pre-surgical planning
Focused on restoring comfort, swallowing, and pain relief

If you experience chronic throat, ear, or facial pain that remains unexplained, consult for an evaluation. Eagle Syndrome is treatable, and styloidectomy provides long-term relief.

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