Article

There is limited information regarding the nature of dysphagia and
feeding difficulties following alkali ingestion injury to inform
multidisciplinary intervention. The aim was to describe the history and nature of
chronic dysphagia and feeding difficulties in two children following severe
alkali ingestion injury. METHODS: Medical records, primary caregiver report, and
clinical assessment were used to compile detailed case histories and assess
current dysphagia and feeding skills. RESULTS: Both cases demonstrated
heterogeneous oral motor and feeding outcomes, including delayed oral motor
skills, restricted dietary variety, and difficult mealtime behaviors that
contributed to protracted recovery of age-appropriate PO intake. Both children
required ongoing diet and/or fluid modification and supplemental non-PO feeding
via gastrostomy at the time of review, that is, 2-year post-injury. CONCLUSIONS:
Recovery from dysphagia post-alkali ingestion is protracted and complex.
Dysphagia, delayed oral motor skills, and difficult mealtime behaviors may
persist secondary to ingestion injury and its associated complications. These
cases highlight the importance of considering early referral for feeding
assessment and intervention to assist children and families with recovery.
Progression through safe and effective oral (per os, PO) intake is needed, as
well as provision of support for primary caregivers. Implications for
Rehabilitation Pediatric chemical ingestion injury can cause long-term dysphagia
and long-term feeding difficulties Initial injury severity does not reliably
correlate with eventuating level of aerodigestive impairment. Clinical and
instrumental assessment is required to monitor swallow function to enable
commencement of targeted rehabilitation when appropriate. Early involvement of a
feeding therapist is recommended to minimize the long-term effects on oral motor
skill development, progression to age-appropriate diet, and provision of
family-centered care.
- Enfant

Langue : ANGLAIS