458 - Ankyloglossia Resulting in Riga-Fede Disease: A Case Report

Abstract:

Introduction: Ankyloglossia, colloquially known as a “tongue-tie,” is a congenital abnormality of the lingual frenulum, the soft tissue composed of the oral mucosa of the tongue as well as the floor of mouth fascia that resides below it. These abnormalities may appear “web-” or “cord-” like and may involve the anterior or posterior portions of the underside of the tongue. Posterior tongue-ties often attach the fascia of the floor of the mouth to the ventral surface of the tongue behind the sublingual glands. Posterior tongue-ties often limit the elevation of the tip of the tongue, which affects swallowing and proper feeding for an infant. Although controversial, the frenotomy procedure can be indicated to relieve the tongue-tie, permitting elevation of the tip of the tongue leading to improved swallowing and feeding for an infant. Riga-Fede disease is an ulceration on the ventral side of the tongue resulting from repetitive trauma by natal or newly erupted teeth that may lead to feeding difficulties.

Case Report: This case presented a unique finding of posterior tongue-tie with an infant that resulted in ulceration of the ventral side of the tongue, also known as Riga-Fede disease. A posterior tongue-tie release procedure was completed which led to healing of the ventral side of the tongue and improved feeding for the infant.

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