A multicomponent behavioral program for oral aversion in children dependent on gastrostomy feedings.

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Gastroenterology
• Behavioral Medicine

Background:

• Children with Nissen fundoplication and feeding gastrostomy often require specialized interventions to improve oral feeding.
• Multicomponent feeding programs incorporating behavioral strategies are essential for managing complex feeding issues in this population.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe the outcomes of children with Nissen fundoplication and feeding gastrostomy who underwent a multicomponent feeding program.
• To highlight the role of comprehensive evaluation, appetite regulation, and family-focused interventions in behavioral feeding programs.

Main Methods:

• A prospective clinical intervention study was conducted.
• Outcomes were evaluated before treatment, after treatment, and at follow-up.

Main Results:

• Four out of nine children (44%) were completely weaned from gastrostomy feedings by discharge.
• Oral intake increased significantly, with 66% of children weaned off gastrostomy tubes by follow-up (mean 3.1 months).
• Oral nutritional intake increased from a mean of 14.6% pre-treatment to 88.1% at follow-up, without compromising body weight.

Conclusions:

• Short-term, intensive biobehavioral treatment effectively improved oral intake in children with Nissen fundoplication and feeding gastrostomy.
• The findings support the use of comprehensive, family-centered behavioral feeding programs for successful weaning from gastrostomy tubes.