Evaluation of the swallowing process in infants: Systematic review

Introduction. This study highlights the importance of early speech therapist intervention in assessing infants' swallowing and feeding. However, it is difficult to identify standardized tests, and therefore, unvalidated instruments are used. Methods. An exploratory systematic review with a qualitative approach and retrospective design, under the PRISMA statement. Results. Fifteen studies were obtained for analysis, with a medium-to-high methodological assessment, including three specific instruments for parental reporting and one clinical instrument. Fiberoptic endoscopy (FE) and video swallow study (VSS) are the gold-standard objective tests for evaluating swallowing. Conclusion. The findings show the need to continue generating evidence on swallowing assessment to improve the detection and management of swallowing disorders in young children during critical periods, also considering the characteristics of each period of psychomotor development.