A Modified Transoral Approach for Carotid Artery Type Eagle Syndrome

Abstract

Objective: This article aimed to summarize our clinical experience with a standardized tonsil-sparing transoral surgical approach used for treatment of styloid process-carotid artery Eagle’s syndrome. Methods: Eleven consecutive patients, from 2007 to 2013, underwent surgical treatment to remove elongated styloid apophyses transorally. Outcomes were assessed in terms of intraoperative and postoperative complications and patients’ evolution. Results: No patient experienced any intraoperative or postoperative complications. All patients have been followed up to present and 10 of them have shown complete relief of the symptoms and improvement of functional ability. Conclusion: The tonsil-sparing transoral surgical approach described is suitable for treating patients with elongated styloid apophyses.