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Speech-Language Pathology Interventions in Pediatric Awake Brain Surgery: A Moroccan and Global Perspective
Nada Benabbou1, Saber Boutayeb2, Kawtar Chafik3
1Clinical Epidemiology and Medico-Surgical Science and Translational Oncology, Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, Mohammed V University, Rabat, MAR.
Cureus
|January 21, 2025
Summary
Speech-language pathology is crucial for pediatric awake brain surgery (ABS), enhancing tumor resection and preserving neurocognitive functions. Postoperative speech therapy shows promise in reducing neurolinguistic disorders in these young patients.
Area of Science:
- Neurosurgery
- Speech-Language Pathology
- Pediatric Medicine
Background:
- Awake brain surgery (ABS) is effective in adults but less explored in pediatric cases.
- The role of speech-language pathology (SLP) in pediatric ABS requires further investigation.
- This study examines SLP interventions in pediatric ABS globally and in Morocco.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the current practices and challenges of SLP in pediatric ABS.
- To assess the impact of SLP interventions on neurocognitive and neurolinguistic outcomes.
- To identify needs for specialized training and tools in pediatric ABS.
Main Methods:
- A web-based survey distributed to 10 international pediatric ABS teams, including one in Morocco.
- Questionnaires for neurosurgeons, speech therapists, and other involved professionals.
- Retrospective review of medical records for three pediatric patients undergoing ABS in Morocco.
Main Results:
- Global consensus exists on the essential role of SLP in pediatric ABS, with 62.5% of neurosurgeons advocating for specialized SLP training.
- Postoperative speech therapy demonstrated a significant correlation with reduced neurolinguistic disorders (Pearson correlation=0.340, p=0.007).
- Challenges include a lack of suitable tools for written language assessment; most assessments are in the patient's mother tongue.
Conclusions:
- SLP is vital in pediatric ABS, necessitating specialized training and tools.
- Postoperative speech therapy appears beneficial for neurolinguistic outcomes.
- Further research with larger cohorts and long-term follow-up is recommended.
