Frenectomy Managed by a Bilateral Pedicle Flap: A Case Report

Abstract

In the oral cavity, the frenum is an anatomical structure composed of mucosal folds that connect the lip and cheek to the alveolar mucosa, gingiva, and underlying periosteum. An abnormally positioned maxillary labial frenum can contribute to the formation of a diastema and gingival recession. Various techniques have been proposed for the correction of aberrant frenal attachments, including frenectomy and frenal repositioning procedures. This case report presents an approach, combining frenectomy with a double lateral pedicle flap. The procedure involves closure across the midline by utilizing two lateral pedicle flaps, which are sutured together as a single flap before closure at the midline. This innovative technique ensures dual blood supply from both pedicles to the unified flap, promoting superior healing by primary intention, minimizing scar formation, and increasing the zone of the attached gingiva. In addition, the flap exhibits excellent color match with the adjacent tissue, contributing to aesthetically pleasing and functional outcomes.