Unusual case of ankyloglossia recurrence after frenectomy in a child with cerebral palsy

Abstract

Introduction: Frenectomy is the most indicated treatment for ankyloglossia in children and adolescents, with recurrence being extremely rare. Objective: Here, we report the unusual case of an 8-year-old boy with cerebral palsy presenting recurrence of ankyloglossia 2 years after undergoing lingual frenectomy. Casereport: On physicalexamination, in a follow-up, 2 years after a lingual frenectomy, we observed a slightly elastic, short and adhered lingual frenulum and the presence of a heart-shaped tongue, with severe restriction of lateral and superior movements, and difficulties in speech and swallowing. A new frenectomy was performed under local anesthesia, restoring lingual mobility. The patient has been followed-up periodically and has undergone speech therapy; 2 years after the second surgery, firm insertion of the frenulum and the continuity of the bifid aspect of the tongue have been again verified, but the tongue movements and oral functions remain satisfactory. The patient will continue to be followed periodically and a new intervention will be performed if there are changes in oral functions. Conclusion: Beyond the need forperiodic clinical follow-up, the diagnosis and multidisciplinary treatment of ankyloglossia are fundamental for identifying possible cases of recurrence, which, although rare, can occur.