Imaging of a Stafne Bone Cavity: What MR Adds and Why a New Name Is Needed

Abstract

Summary: Stafne bone cavities are asymptomatic radiolucencies seen at the angle of the mandible. Although plain films are often sufficient for diagnosis, confirmatory imaging is needed in atypical cases. We describe the MR imaging findings of a Stafne bone cavity, describe the contents, explain why a new name is needed, and discuss the relative merits of different radiologic techniques for establishing this diagnosis.