Benign osseous tumor of the palate (exostosis) generally located on the midline, at the level of the cross-shaped suture between the maxillary and palatine bones. According to its form, 4 types are classically described: flat, fusiform, nodular and lobular.

It is rare before 10 years of age (but cases have been described in neonates) and grows up to 30 - 40 years of age. It is twice more common in women than in men. Its cause is unknown: it is probably due to a combination of genetic and environmental factors.

Anesthetic implications:

risk of trauma during any intrabuccal maneuver: supraglottic device or echographic probe insertion, intubation,

References :

-        Aron J, Raithel SJ, Mannes AJ.
Images in Anesthesiology : Torus palatinus and airway management.
Anesthesiology 2017; 127: 164

Updated: March 2019