Tongue Tied

Additional Handouts Resources for Providers

Resources:

1. https://www.aap.org/en-us/advocacy-and-policy/aap-health-initiatives/Breastfeeding/Pages/default.aspx

2. https://www.who.int/health-topics/breastfeeding

3. https://reader.aappublications.org/aap-textbook-of-pediatric-care-2nd-ed/1

4. https://www.aappublications.org/news/2021/01/01/nce2020-tonguetie010121?fbclid=IwAR3TLsSJAoSJUD2znW5GkhUBzk7kbXwFkDqZ62vZUyLwYzOB3gi4vL1hlhM&utm_source=TrendMD&utm_medium=TrendMD&utm_campaign=AAPNews_TrendMD_0

5. https://pediatrics.aappublications.org/content/146/1_MeetingAbstract/124?utm_source=TrendMD&utm_medium=TrendMD&utm_campaign=Pediatrics_TrendMD_0

6. https://pediatrics.aappublications.org/content/132/5/e1413

7. https://pediatrics.aappublications.org/content/122/1/e188

8. https://pediatrics.aappublications.org/content/128/2/280

9. https://pediatrics.aappublications.org/content/125/6/e1500

10. https://pediatrics.aappublications.org/content/135/6/e1467

11. https://pediatrics.aappublications.org/content/135/6/e1458

12. https://neoreviews.aappublications.org/content/11/9/e513

Information for Providers:

-       A snip or clip with scissors or using a scalpel to make a small cut is considered a frenotomy.  Frenectomy refers to the tissue being physically removed by excision, cautery, ablation, or vaporization (CO2 laser by a dentist).  Frenuloplasty refers to a procedure involving multiple cuts and sutures.   And maybe mention the terminology of tethered oral tissues as an umbrella term that includes both tongue ties and lip ties.

-       Work with a trained IBCLC that is experienced in identifying ankyloglossia - they may be able to help with positioning, increasing milk supply, or recommendation for bodywork (pediatric acupuncture, craniosacral therapy, or chiropractic work)

-       Refer to a trained specialist in frenotomies for infants

-       Laser is not always  superior to scissors and may result in increased procedural or post-procedural pain

-       Screen for bleeding disorders in the patient and family history

-       Screen for micrognathia or other ENT/respiratory anatomic contraindications for performing a frenotomy in an infant or child

-       Refer to pediatric Hematology,  Craniofacial, or ENT specialists  if there is any question on whether or not an infant may receive a frenotomy safely