Cleft lip and palate subjects prevalence of abnormal stylohyoid complex and tonsilloliths on cone beam computed tomography

Abstract Introduction and objectives Tonsilloliths and abnormal stylohyoid complex may have similar symptoms to others of different aetiology. Individuals with cleft lip and palate describe similar symptoms because of the anatomical implications that are peculiar to this anomaly. The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of abnormal stylohyoid complex and tonsilloliths on cone beam computed tomography in individuals with cleft lip and palate. Methods According to the inclusion and exclusion criteria, 66 CT scans out of 2794 were analysed, on i-Cat ® vision software with 0.8 index Kappa intra-examiner. Results The total prevalence of ossification of the incomplete stylohyoid complex in individuals with cleft lip and palate was 66.6%; the prevalence of these findings in females was 75% and 61.9% in males. The total prevalence of tonsilloliths was 7.5%. Conclusion It is important to ascertain calcification of the stylohyoid complex and tonsilloliths in the radiological report, due to the anatomical proximity and similar symptomatology to other orofacial impairments in individuals with cleft lip and palate, focusing on females with oral cleft formation, patients with incisive trans foramen cleft and incisive post foramen cleft because they are more prevalent. Greater knowledge of the anatomical morphometry of individuals with cleft lip and palate greatly contributes towards the selection of clinical behaviours and the quality of life of these patients, since cleft lip and palates one of the most common anomalies.