Safety and Feasibility of Aerodigestive Stimulation Therapy in Infants With Complex Feeding Difficulties

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are evaluating a new pharyngo-esophageal stimulation technique to improve swallowing and aerodigestive functions in infants at risk of needing long-term tube feeding. The study aims to show that this approach can consistently activate swallowing processes to reduce the need for home tube feeding. It also examines whether guided interventions and biofeedback improve feeding compliance, reduce parental stress, and enhance satisfaction and confidence with feeding. Infants will receive weekly esophageal stimulation using high resolution impedance manometry for up to 4 weeks or until discharge. Alongside this, they will undergo nutritive oral feeding therapy with a minimum of 5 mL of prescribed milk at each feed. Daily feeding evaluations and weekly bedside rounds will monitor progress, with feeding plans posted for clear communication with families and care teams. Participants will be involved in feeding assessments once daily during the 4-week trial period. Researchers will measure oral feeding volumes before and after the study and collect parent surveys about their experience. The study includes weekly parental education and feedback to support feeding progress. Overall participation may last up to 4 weeks or until discharge, with ongoing monitoring of feeding function and family support.

Feasibility of Aerodigestive Stimulation Therapy Trial