Thermal welding frenotomy on neglected tongue tie: a case report

Abstract

Introduction: Tongue tie, also known as ankyloglossia, is characterized by a small lingual
frenum that often prevents the tongue from moving. It is a rare congenital mouth
abnormality that might lead to functional problems such as improper swallowing, speech
difficulty, and psychological stress. This study's purpose of providing an unusual incidence
of neglected tongue tie with thermal welding frenotomy.

Case Presentation: A 4 years old male patient was bought by his parent to the Department
of Otorhinolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery with the chief complaint of offensive
speech. The patient cannot speak the word F, R, T, L, D. Additionally, the parent said that he
was unable to chew solid meals. There was a history when the patient was a baby; his
mother could not breastfeed him. According to the clinical examination, the patient had a
tongue tie with a thick frenum, limited tongue movements like protrusion, and elevation of
the tongue tip. A bifid or heart-shaped structure was seen on the front tongue tip.

Discussion: The patient underwent a thermal welding frenotomy under intravenous
sedation. This approach's effectiveness relies on using heat and pressure to block blood
arteries. This study established the novel technology as a secure procedure for tongue tie.
After a frenotomy procedure, patients show an improved ability to articulate consonants
better.
Conclusion: This study supports thermal welding frenotomy as an efficient and secure
treatment for children with tongue tie.