A Description of Oral and Swallowing Characteristics in Pediatric Patients with Neuromuscular Diseases

Abstract

Objective: The aim of our study was to put forth the existing problems about oral structure/function and swallowing function in patients with different pediatric neuromuscular diseases.

Methods: Forty-five pediatric patients with NMD's aged 10.22 +/- 3.32 years were included in the study. Oral intake levels of patients were determined with Functional Oral Intake Scale. Oral structural and functional examination, assessment of complaints related to swallowing problems, and three-ounce water swallow test were performed to all patients.

Results: In oral assessment, structural problems were determined at varying rates between 13.3% and 46.6%, problems related to oral functions between %4.4 and 26.6%, and complaints related to swallowing problems between 11.1% to 33.3%. Five patients (%11) failed the three-ounce water swallow test.

Conclusion: The findings related to oral structure/function and swallowing function indicate a risk of swallowing dysfunction with different symptoms and problems in neuromuscular diseases. These symptoms may result in life-threatening complications added to their current neuromuscular problems.