Pediatric swallowing disorders

The goal of this chapter is to identify common abnormalities in anatomy, physiology, and functional development of the fundamental elements of swallowing that afflict children of different ages. In the neonate, congenital abnormalities of the oropharynx and esophagus cause difficulty swallowing. These abnormalities include vocal cord paralysis as well as anatomic and functional causes of stridor. In the infant, genetic syndromes, vascular rings, and neoplastic disease may initially present with feeding difficulties. Gastroesophageal reflux is a common cause for dysphagia at this age, and neurogenic problems at any level of the nervous system may severely compromise the development of feeding behaviors. As children age, they are more prone to accidents. Trauma and foreign body ingestion commonly present with dysphagia. Feeding disorders are common in early childhood, with minor feeding difficulties reported between 25 and 35% in healthy children and more severe problems in children with chronic medical conditions and in premature infants.^1-3.