Michelle Dawson – Pediatric Dysphagia: Establishing the Brain-Mouth-Gut Connection

Outline

BRAIN MOUTH GUT CONNECTION

• How multiple systems are connected
• Development of Innovation of the systems
• Common medical breakdowns in patients

TYPICAL REFLEX DEVELOPMENT

• Progression of typical sucking patterns
• Progression of typical chewing patters
• Impact of feeding tubes on integration of reflexes

MEDICALLY FRAGILE CASELOAD

• How specific diagnoses and treatments can lead to oropharyngeal dysphagia
• When to make referrals to specialists and why

ALTERNATIVES TO PO (BY MOUTH FEEDING)

• Types, locations, implications of feeding tubes
• Disruption to digestion process and nourishment

INTERVENTIONS FOR POSITIVE AND FUNCTIONAL OUTCOMES

• Approaches focused on patient access to ADLs
• Special consideration for cultural factors & socioeconomic barriers
• Treatment and strategies for home/health base clinicians
• Interactive Activities – mini breakouts
• Video case examples of interventions and patient/family perspectives

CASE STUDIES

• 2.5 year old S/P – grade 4, grade 3, grade 2 bleed(s) with an g-tube
• 15 month old exclusively breast fed with diagnosis of EOE (Eosinophilic Esophagitis) and new feeding tube
• 5 year old with autism spectrum disorder – tube fed from 6 months, post cardiac surgery
• Follow the case history of a 3 month old-4year old with esophageal atresia S/P surgical repair and a g/j tube
• Case Studies from participants