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Clinical practice: swallowing problems in cerebral palsy

Corrie E Erasmus1, Karen van Hulst, Jan J Rotteveel

  • 1Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behaviour, Department of Paediatric Neurology, Radboud University Nijmegen Medical Centre, Nijmegen, The Netherlands. c.erasmus@neuro.umcn.nl

European Journal of Pediatrics
|September 21, 2011
PubMed

Insights

Cerebral palsy (CP) is a common childhood disability. This review details swallowing problems and drooling in children with CP, offering an approach for investigation and treatment.

Area of Science:

  • Neurology
  • Pediatrics
  • Gastroenterology

Background:

  • Cerebral palsy (CP) is the leading physical disability in early childhood, affecting 2-2.5 per 1,000 live births globally.
  • CP involves motor, cognitive, and perceptive impairments due to non-progressive brain lesions.
  • Swallowing difficulties and excessive drooling are common in children with CP, leading to malnutrition and aspiration pneumonia.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review functional and anatomical issues related to swallowing problems in children with CP.
  • To describe an evidence-based approach for the investigation and treatment of dysphagia and drooling in CP.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review of functional and anatomical issues in pediatric CP.
  • Expert opinion and clinical experience in managing swallowing problems in CP.

Main Results:

  • Dysphagia and drooling significantly increase morbidity and mortality risks in children with CP.
  • Early intervention for swallowing problems is crucial for improving outcomes.
  • A structured approach to investigation and treatment is essential for managing these complications.

Conclusions:

  • Swallowing problems and drooling are significant challenges in children with cerebral palsy.
  • Comprehensive assessment and tailored treatment plans are necessary.
  • Addressing these issues can reduce complications and improve the quality of life for children with CP and their families.

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