Work

Pre- and Post-Operative Care Protocol for Infants with Tongue-Tie: Clinical and Caregiver Perspectives

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: Purpose: Ankyloglossia or tongue-tie (TT) occurs when the lingual frenulum is visually altered and accompanied by restricted tongue mobility causing feeding and other difficulties for infants. Pre- and post-operative stimulation techniques are known to be effective in preventing tissue reattachment and ensuring feeding success. The aim of this study was to gather feedback from parents and health professionals for an experimental evidence-based pre- and post-operative care protocol for breastfeeding infants undergoing surgical management for TT. Methods: A qualitative approach was used to evaluate an experimental pre- and post-operative care protocol for infants with TT, through virtual semi-structured interviews with clinicians and parents of children with TT. Five parents and eight current practicing clinicians were interviewed to obtain feedback on the protocol in development. The results were analyzed using thematic analysis. Results: Four themes were generated from participants: (1) parental confidence and competence, (2) the need for individualized and adaptable instruction; (3) supporting the parent and infant equally; and (4) regular and periodic support and adjustment to protocol. Conclusions: The findings from the qualitative interviews highlighted the importance of fostering parental confidence and education, adaptability and flexibility in care, and clinician reassurance throughout the process. The participants suggested these factors would contribute to greater adherence to care protocols and improved outcomes for both infants and their families. This research emphasizes the importance of providing care that extends beyond logistics of oral stimulation techniques and instead recommends a mindful, family-centered approach that empowers and motivates families throughout the process.

Source: International Journal of Orofacial Myology

DOI: 10.3390/ijom51010003

Authors: Thea Louise Cook, Elliana Nolan, Raymond J Tseng, Sharon Smart

Institutions: Curtin University, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

Language: English

Topic: Oral and Craniofacial Lesions

Subfield: Oral Surgery

Field: Dentistry

Domain: Health Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $1,327