Frenotomy
Pronunciation: freh-NOT-oh-mee
A surgical incision into a frenum to relieve tension without completely excising the tissue.
Full Definition
Frenotomy is a more conservative procedure than frenectomy, involving a releasing incision into the frenal attachment rather than its total removal. In periodontal practice it may be used when a high frenum pull is causing marginal gingival tension, but full excision is not warranted. The term is frequently confused with frenectomy in clinical documentation, which can misrepresent the extent of surgery performed. Editors reviewing operative notes and consent forms should verify which procedure was actually described and use the precise term accordingly.
Usage
Usage note: This term is a classic confusable pair with frenectomy. In procedure documentation, incorrect use can affect insurance coding.
In Context
- "The clinician elected a frenotomy rather than full frenectomy given the patient's thin gingival biotype." — Clinical case note
- "Editors should not substitute 'frenectomy' for 'frenotomy'; the procedures differ in scope and coding." — Journal style guide annotation