Anterior tongue reduction surgery for paediatric macroglossia

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Surgery
• Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery
• Genetics

Background:

• Macroglossia, or enlarged tongue, can cause significant issues including poor oral hygiene, airway obstruction, and difficulties with swallowing and speech.
• Common causes include congenital conditions like Beckwith-Wiedemann syndrome and Down syndrome, as well as tumors such as lymphangioma and hemangioma.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the safety and efficacy of anterior tongue reduction surgery over an 11-year period.
• To assess surgical outcomes and potential complications associated with the procedure.

Main Methods:

• A retrospective review of 18 patients who underwent anterior tongue reduction at Great Ormond Street Hospital.
• Anterior wedge resection, primarily using electrocautery, was the surgical technique employed.

Main Results:

• The majority of patients (17 out of 18) achieved a good surgical outcome, with the tongue resting within the oral cavity.
• Common indications included cystic hygroma, Beckwith-Wiedemann syndrome, and Down syndrome.
• One patient experienced recurrent macroglossia requiring further intervention.

Conclusions:

• Anterior tongue reduction is a safe and effective surgical option for managing macroglossia.
• The procedure demonstrates limited post-operative morbidity and consistently leads to improved symptoms and good functional outcomes.
• Speech development is not negatively impacted by anterior tongue reduction.