Congenital fibrous fusion of the jaws (synechiae) with cleft palate: A case report.

Abstract

BACKGROUND Congenital maxillomandibular fusion is a rare disorder. Maxillomandibular fusion is usually discovered immediately after birth because the newborn is unable to open mouth or feed normally. The fusion defects can present with a wide range of severity, ranging from mucosal band (synechiae) to complete bony fusion (syngnathia). CASE DESCRIPTION We report a case of congenital alveolar synechiae with posterior cleft palate in a 3-day-old male neonate. The newborn was managed with the help of a multi-disciplinary approach. CONCLUSION Fusion of the gums is a very rare congenital anomaly. Early division of fibrous bands not only allows effective feeding but also prevents the development of facial deformities. However, anesthesia for this procedure can be challenging.