Nutrition and Gastrointestinal Tract Assessment and Management of Children with Dysphagia

Abstract

Limited ability to take in nutrients places young patients with dysphagia at risk for malnutrition and failure to gain weight. These children require careful evaluation and ongoing monitoring of growth and nutritional status. Gastroesophageal reflux and recurrent vomiting may contribute to dysphagia when the refluxate causes laryngopharyngeal irritation and can increase the morbidity in patients prone to aspiration. A paucity of evidence-based literature on relevant topics demands both clinical judgment and an interdisciplinary approach for management decisions for these issues. Advances in nutrition and management of aerodigestive conditions related to dysphagia will be reviewed.

KEYWORDS

Pediatric - dysphagia - undernutrition - reflux - esophagitis - deglutition - infants

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