Unusual Presentation of Caustic Ingestion and its Surgical Treatment: A Case Report

Abstract

Treatment and reconstruction of oral scar contracture, is always a challenging procedure to restore structure and functions of the oral cavity. We present a case of a patient with limited mouth opening who sustained extensive oral scar contracture with complete adhesion of tongue to floor of mouth following ingestion of caustic soda without his knowledge 4 years back. We performed a surgical release of the scar contractures from buccal mucosa on both sides, along with a release of the tongue from the floor of the mouth, followed by reconstruction of all sites using split skin grafts. Adequate mouth opening and tongue movement was achieved. There was a follow up period of 1 month with excellent mouth opening and tongue function.

Acquired synechia of the tongue to the mouth floor

“…Oral cavity injuries caused by caustic ingestion, including microstomia, shallow vestibule, ankyloglossia, speech impairment, loss of teeth and impairment in facial expression have been reported in the literature [2][3][4] . We present a case of scar contracture between the tongue and mouth floor with stone formation in the submandibular salivary duct.…”

Microstomia Following Caustic Soda Ingestion: Report of a Case

“…Caustic ingestions are among the most prevalent causes of toxic exposure [1]. Accidental caustic ingestion is most common in children with intentional ingestion and attempted suicide, common in adolescents and adults [1].…”

“…Caustic ingestions are among the most prevalent causes of toxic exposure [1]. Accidental caustic ingestion is most common in children with intentional ingestion and attempted suicide, common in adolescents and adults [1]. It has been reported that a number of patients who ingest caustic substances have accompanying psychiatric disorders [2].…”

“…The most serious injuries with longterm complications are in the esophagus in both children and adults: perforation, death, strictures and increased risk to esophageal carcinoma in later life [2][3][4][5][6]. Most of the reported cases in the literature are concerned with return of function of the strictured esophagus and stomach [1].…”