Updates on Ankyloglossia Diagnosis and Treatment: Timing of Release, Reattachment, and Breastfeeding Support

Clinical Breakout

DATE: Sunday, October 15th
TIME: 12:30 pm - 1:30 pm
FACULTY: Cara Riek, DNP, RN, FNP-BC, IBCLC

The paucity of research on ankyloglossia diagnosis and treatment continues to grow. As we know better, we do better. The IBCLC plays an imperative role in preparing families for release of tethered oral tissues. Multiple factors should be examined when recommending a release of tethered oral tissues in patients; Womb placement, birth process, oral function, bodywork involvement, and feeding support are necessary considerations in determining the order of care leading up to release. Attention to pre and post release care is necessary to optimize healing and improving symptomology. Staged releases and post procedure reattachment are additional considerations when discussing release with patients. Having a firm foundation in oral assessment, infant anatomy, and differential diagnosis helps to guide appropriate order of care to optimize feeding outcomes. This presentation utilizes case studies, videos, and images to provide the audience with an in-depth discussion on educating and guiding families seeking release of tethered oral tissues. Clinical assessment, symptomology, differential diagnosis, order of care, team building, and collaboration are presented to provide a comprehensive understanding to improve patient care.

Faculty

Cara Riek, DNP, RN, FNP-BC, IBCLC
Dr. Cara graduated from Arizona State University of with Doctor of Nursing Practice degree. She is a board certified Family Nurse Practitioner in addition to having her IBCLC certification. Dr. Cara is also a diplomate of the American Board of Laser Surgery, specializing in “Oral Surgery in Infants, Toddler, and Adults.” She has also earned her certification as a Certified Specialist in Orofacial Myology (CSOM).

Dr Cara describes her career as a diversifying adventure: research, teaching, nursing, and now breastfeeding medicine specialist. She strives to provide meaningful, evidence-based care to mother-baby dyads. Her mission is to support mothers where they are at and help them journey into the breastfeeding relationship they desire. She strives to make sure that each patient is able to reach their desired goal and have an amazing breastfeeding relationship.