Radiological characteristics and anatomical associations of Stafne bone cavity in the Turkish population.

Abstract

Background: Stafne bone cavity (SBC) is a benign, well-defined radiolucent mandibular defect that is typically detected incidentally on radiographic examination. This study aimed to investigate the demographic and radiological characteristics of SBC cases in the Turkish population and to review the relevant literature in order to assess their relationship with adjacent bony anatomical structures.

Materials and methods: A retrospective analysis was performed on panoramic radiographs of 25 patients with 26 SBCs, supplemented by the evaluation of available cone beam computed tomography scans (n = 12) and computed tomography scans (n = 2). The dimensional characteristics of SBCs were assessed in relation to the mandibular canal, mandibular inferior border, and buccal cortical plate. Additionally, a literature review of previously reported Turkish cases was undertaken.

Results: The case series revealed that SBCs were more common in males and typically showed well-defined cortical margins and an ovoid shape. The literature review included 43 studies with 197 patients and 201 SBCs and showed similar findings. Within the reviewed literature, a significant correlation was found between cavity depth and buccal cortical involvement (p < 0.001). Increased vertical dimension was also associated with proximity to the mandibular canal, although this was not statistically significant.

Conclusions: Larger and deeper SBCs tend to extend closer to adjacent bony structures, though statistical confirmation is limited in small series. Further studies with larger samples and detailed radiological assessment are needed to clarify these relationships.