Study of How Thickened Feeds Affect Swallowing in Children With Dysphagia and BRUE

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are studying the effects of different liquid thickness levels on swallowing function in infants and children with oropharyngeal dysphagia, including those who have experienced brief resolved unexplained events BRUE. These swallowing problems can cause symptoms like choking and cyanosis, and the study aims to better understand the swallowing physiology and how it relates to these symptoms by using advanced swallowing tests. Participants will be randomly assigned to swallow various liquids with different viscosities thin liquids like formula or breastmilk, and liquids thickened slightly, mildly, or moderately using rice cereal or Gelmix. The study compares how these different thicknesses affect swallowing safety and function through detailed physiology measurements, including videofluoroscopic swallow studies and pharyngeal high resolution impedance-manometry. During the study, participants will undergo swallow tests lasting about 30 minutes to measure swallow risk indices and other swallow physiology metrics. Researchers will monitor swallowing function carefully and assess how different liquid thicknesses influence outcomes. The study includes children from birth up to 21 years old, and participation involves clinical assessments to track swallow safety and possible improvements with thickened feeds.

Effect of Thickened Feeds on Swallow Physiology in Children With Dysphagia