Cone Beam Computed Tomography Evaluation of Stafne Bone Defect: A Case Series and Review of Radiographic Features

TL;DR

This paper presents four cases of Stafne bone defects and shows how cone beam computed tomography helps in accurately diagnosing these rare, often asymptomatic lesions.

Contribution

The study highlights the diagnostic value of CBCT in identifying both typical and unusual presentations of Stafne bone defects.

Findings

CBCT provided detailed 3D imaging that helped distinguish SBDs from other mandibular pathologies.

Unusual features like anterior and bilateral SBDs were accurately identified using CBCT.

All cases confirmed SBDs as benign, supporting conservative management without treatment.

Abstract

Background: Stafne's bone defects (SBDs) are rare, intraosseous lesions not only localized in the mandible but also asymptomatic by default and found occasionally at radiographically investigations. The size and location of these defects can vary, although most are located in the posterior mandible. Since anterior variants are less frequently reported, diagnostic imaging is crucial for distinguishing SBDs from other diseases. This case series documents both familiar and unusual appearances, highlighting the diagnostic value of cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) in the evaluation of SBDs.

Case Presentation: This study evaluated four instances of SBDs using CBCT. In Case 1, a 48-year-old man without any clinical symptoms had a characteristic posterior SBD located beneath the inferior alveolar canal. Case 2 described a 28-year-old woman's unusual anterior mandibular SBD, which was accompanied with scalloping and tooth diversion. In Case 3, a 59-year-old woman had a unique case of bilateral SBDs with combined buccal and lingual depressions. In Case 4, a 47-year-old man had a large anterior SBD with partial root exposure and fenestration. In all cases, CBCT interpreted detailed three-dimensional imaging, assessing diagnosis and effective differentiation from other mandibular pathologies.

Conclusions: CBCT proved to be essential in accurately diagnosing SBDs in every instance, particularly when it came to spotting unusual signs like anterior and bilateral lesions. The findings confirmed that SBDs are benign and typically do not require treatment. The improved radiographic capabilities of CBCT support the argument for conservative management strategies and improve diagnostic accuracy.

Figures