Oral Synechia with Epithelial Cyst in Neonate with Cleft Palate: A Case Report

Abstract

Cleft palate with oral synechia is a rare congenital deformity that is represented in the literature by only a handful of cases. Midline synechia is less common than lateral. Failure to recognize and appropriately treat this condition has serious implications for neonatal airway management and feeding. We present a case of cleft palate with midline subglossopalatal synechia that was transferred from an outside institution after a prolonged period of nonsurgical management in which the patient ultimately required intubation for respiratory distress. Release of the synechia was performed without complications. We review the current literature and discuss diagnosis and surgical management of this rare condition.