Partial glossectomy in a patient carrier of Beckwith–Wiedemann syndrome: Presentation of a case

Abstract

The Beckwith–Wiedemann syndrome is a congenital disorder with diverse clinical manifestations, among which the most prevalent are, macroglossia (97%), gigantism (88%), and abdominal wall defects (80%). Orthodontically, most patients present with anterior open bite and Angle Class III malocclusion. Macroglossia can cause cosmetic problems and functional abnormalities associated with speech, mastication, swallowing and breathing, with potential obstruction of the upper airways and decreased stability of orthodontal-surgical treatment. In order to avoid episodes like this, a partial glossectomy is necessary in some patients. This article looks at the diagnosis and treatment of macroglossia, while presenting the case of a patient with Beckwith–Wiedemann syndrome who underwent surgery by partial glossectomy using the technique advocated by Obwergeser et al. in 1964, and 3 years postoperatively showed good cosmetic and functional results.