Cone beam tomography evaluation of lingual cortical mandibular defect diagnosed as Stafne bone cavity

Resumo

Introduction: Mandibular lingual bone depressions are considered to
be developmental anomalies known as Stafne bone cavity. The purpose
of the present report is to describe the characteristics of classic Stafne
bone cavity in molar region evaluated by cone beam computed
tomography (CBCT). Case report: A male patient, 27 years old, was
submitted to CBCT to evaluation of the relation between the right lower
third molar roots and mandibular canal and the unilateral cystic image
found in the panoramic radiographic below the mandibular canal in the
right molar area. It was used a gray scale of 12 bits and voxel of 0.2 mm. The CBCT showed fine images of the Stafne bone cavity. In the present
case, periodic clinical and radiological controls were the therapeutic
option. In atypical cases or in doubtful diagnosis, surgical intervention
and anatomopathological examination may be indicated. Conclusion:
Although the diagnosis of a Stafne bone cavity can often be established
with plain radiographs, confirmatory tests are sometimes required. In
these situations, the diagnosis can be confirmed with CBCT.