International Journal of Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation
Open Access
ISSN: 2329-9096
ISSN: 2329-9096
Department of Surgery Division of Pediatric Surgery, Kanagawa, Japan
Research Article
Paradoxical Articulation Outcomes in Ankyloglossia: Superior Performance of the Tongue-Tip Type Despite Severe Mobility Restriction
Author(s): Yasuo Ito*, Kazuaki Miyaguni, Tetsuro Sugihara, Go Kosugi, Nene Tookaichi and Myu Kaneko3
Background: Severe ankyloglossia is generally assumed to be associated with poor preoperative articulation and delayed postoperative recovery. However, our previous study using word accuracy testing did not fully support this assumption. The present study aimed to clarify the relationship between the severity of ankyloglossia and postoperative prognosis using multiple articulation assessment methods.
Methods: A total of 74 children with ankyloglossia and speech disorders underwent preoperative assessment and lingual frenuloplasty under general anesthesia, followed by structured speech therapy. Articulation performance was assessed postoperatively at 1, 3, 6 and 12 months. For patients requiring rehabilitation longer than 12 months, evaluation was repeated at the completion of therapy. Assessment items included the number of correctly articul.. View More»