Hyoid Body

corpus ossis hyoidei

The body of the hyoid bone is the central horizontal segment connecting the greater and lesser horns, lying at the level of C3-C4 opposite the thyroid cartilage. The genial muscles (geniohyoid, genioglossus) attach to the genial tubercles of the mandible above, the thyrohyoid membrane attaches the body to the thyroid cartilage below, and the mylohyoid, hyoglossus, and middle constrictor attach to the greater horns.

Region: Neck

Clinical Relevance

Clinical Notes

Hyoid bone fracture is a classic forensic finding in manual strangulation, present in approximately 40% of homicidal strangulations. The greater horn-body junction is the typical fracture site. Calcification of the hyoid is progressive with age and influences the imaging appearance. The hyoid is the attachment of the suprahyoid muscles and must be considered in pharyngeal anatomy for swallowing disorders. In total laryngectomy, the hyoid may be removed with the larynx or preserved depending on tumour extension.

Pathology

Common Injuries & Conditions

Hyoid Body Fracture in Strangulation

Manual strangulation applies lateral compressive force to the hyoid body and greater horns, producing fractures at the greater horn-body junction detectable on CT in approximately 40% of homicidal strangulations; forensic documentation of hyoid fracture alongside petechiae, neck bruising, and conjunctival haemorrhages confirms manual strangulation as the mechanism.