Frenotomy for Ankyloglossia: Conventional technique under general anesthesia in pediatric patients
1 Department of Pediatric Dentistry, Faculty of Dental Medicine, Universitas Airlangga, Surabaya, Indonesia.
2 Department of Pediatric Dentistry, Dr. Saiful Anwar Regional General Hospital, Malang, Indonesia.
Case Study
World Journal of Advanced Research and Reviews, 2024, 22(03), 1849–1854
Publication history:
Received on 19 May 2024; revised on 26 June 2024; accepted on 28 June 2024
Abstract:
Introduction: Ankyloglossia, commonly known as tongue-tie, is a prevalent birth defect characterized by a shortened and taut lingual frenulum, resulting in various complications. It occurs more frequently in males and can lead to breastfeeding difficulties, poor weight gain, and challenges in oral hygiene. The purpose of this article is to discuss frenotomy as a surgical intervention for ankyloglossia, involving the removal of the lingual frenulum under general anesthesia.
Case History: a 9-year-old male patient with class III ankyloglossia, experiencing difficulty in pronouncing words and maintaining oral hygiene due to a short lingual frenulum. Despite initial behavioral challenges, comprehensive dental treatment, including frenectomy under general anesthesia, was successfully performed.
Discussion: Ankyloglossia, or tongue-tie, results from cellular degeneration of the lingual frenulum, often associated with a genetic mutation in the MTHFR gene, affecting folate processing. Tongue development involves the migration of muscles from pharyngeal arches, leading to attachment issues at the lingual frenulum, causing ankyloglossia. Untreated consequences include feeding difficulties, dental decay, and speech articulation challenges. Conventional frenotomy, a simple and efficient technique, offers rapid, cost-effective symptom relief, promoting smooth recovery and improved outcomes compared to laser procedures.
Conclusion: frenotomy for ankyloglossia under general anesthesia effectively improves tongue mobility and alleviates associated symptoms. General anesthesia ensures patient comfort and facilitates precise execution of the procedure. The conventional frenotomy technique enhances tongue movements, highlighting the efficacy of surgical intervention for this condition.
Keywords:
Ankyloglossia; Frenotomy; General Anesthesia; Quality of Life
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