frenotomia

Frenotomia is a surgical procedure involving the division or release of a frenulum. A frenulum is a small fold of mucous tissue that connects two parts of the body. Most commonly, the term refers to the frenulum linguae, a fold of tissue under the tongue, or the frenulum labii superioris, the fold of tissue connecting the upper lip to the gums.

When the frenulum linguae is unusually short, thick, or tight, it can restrict the tongue's movement. This condition is known as ankyloglossia, or tongue-tie. In infants, tongue-tie can interfere with breastfeeding and may lead to difficulties with speech development later in life. Frenotomia, also called frenulotomy or frenectomy in this context, is the surgical release of this restricted frenulum. It is typically a quick procedure, often performed without anesthesia in newborns, and involves cutting the frenulum with scissors or a scalpel.

Similarly, a tight superior labial frenulum can cause problems such as a gap between the front teeth (diastema) or difficulties with oral hygiene. Frenotomia of the superior labial frenulum aims to release this tissue, improving the position of the teeth or facilitating better oral hygiene. The procedure for the labial frenulum is also generally straightforward and can be performed using various surgical techniques. Recovery from frenotomia is usually rapid, with minimal discomfort.