Objectives to Performing a study on Frenotomy for Tongue-tie or Ankyloglossia

Objectives:

There were three objectives to performing a study on Frenotomy for Tongue-tie or ankyloglossia.

• Determine the incidence rate of ankyloglossia.
• Evaluate the Hazelbaker score and its usefulness. The Hazelbaker score is an assessment tool for lingual frenulum function. It is used to determine the degree of ankyloglossia and the need for treatment.
• Measure the effectiveness of frenotomy for improved breast feeding.

Methods:

Methods of the study included examinations of breast feeding babies, Hazelbaker assessments, treatment and follow-up.

Study Group:

The study group comprised of inborn breastfeeding infants as well as outpatients with breastfeeding problems.

Indications for Frenotomy

A low Hazelbaker score in conjunction with breastfeeding problems are indications for Frenotomy. A hazelbaker score of < 11 for function and < 8 for appearance would be considered low. Breast feeding problems include ineffective latch, infant frustration at breast, low weight gain, and nipple pain.

Hazelbaker Scores

The total Hazelbaker scores for appearance and function are the sums of several characteristic scores.

• For Ineffective Latch
  • Function: 7.8 +/-1.8
  • Appearance: 4.8 +/- 1.8
• For Nipple Pain
  • Function: 8.0 +/- 1.9
  • Appearance: 5.0 +/- 1.8