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The hyoid syndrome: a pain in the neck

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  29 June 2007

P. J. Robinson ,
J. P. Davis  and
J. G. Fraser
P. J. Robinson*
Affiliation:
Departments of OtolaryngologyUniversity College and Middlesex Hospitals, London.
J. P. Davis
Affiliation:
Departments of Otolaryngology, Barnet General Hospital, London.
J. G. Fraser
Affiliation:
Departments of OtolaryngologyUniversity College and Middlesex Hospitals, London.
*
Mr. P. J. Robinson, F.R.C.S., Dept. of Otolaryngology, Southmead Hospital, Westbury on Trym, Bristol BS10 5NB.
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Abstract

This paper reports on 13 patients with a pain syndrome arising from the region of the greater cornu of the hyoid bone. It is often missed and yet is readily treatable. The syndrome causes pain on swallowing in the region of the hyoid which may radiate to the ear, face and lower jaw or may be felt also in the pharynx. Treatment by an injection of a mixture of depomedrone and one per cent lignocaine is very effective.

The underlying pathology is discussed and it is suggested that in some cases the pain and discomfort experienced by patients may be due to tenosynovitis of the intermediate tendon of the digastric muscle. Greater recognition of this relatively common condition would not only result in more effective treatment but would also avoid unnecessary investigation and surgery.

Keywords

NeckPainHyoid boneTenosynovitis
Type
Main Articles
Information
The Journal of Laryngology & Otology , Volume 108 , Issue 10 , October 1994 , pp. 855 - 858
Copyright
Copyright © JLO (1984) Limited 1994

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