microstomia
Pronunciation: MY-kro-STO-mee-uh
Abnormal reduction in mouth opening capacity due to perioral burn scar contracture, affecting eating and oral hygiene.
Full Definition
Microstomia is a debilitating complication of facial burns that results from scar contracture around the mouth, leading to decreased oral aperture and restricted mouth opening. This condition significantly impacts a patient's ability to eat, speak clearly, maintain oral hygiene, and undergo dental procedures. In burn surgery, microstomia prevention begins with proper acute care of perioral burns, including appropriate splinting and early range-of-motion exercises. When contracture develops, treatment typically requires surgical release procedures such as commissuroplasty, scar excision with skin grafting, or local tissue rearrangement. The condition requires ongoing multidisciplinary management involving burn surgeons, speech therapists, and dentists.
Usage
Usage note: Measure and document maximum mouth opening in millimeters.
In Context
- "The patient developed severe microstomia following deep facial burns, requiring commissuroplasty." — reconstructive surgery consultation
- "Early intervention prevented microstomia development through aggressive scar management protocols." — burn rehabilitation note