Controversies in the Management of Pediatric Aspiration

Abstract

Program Description: This miniseminar is supported by the Airway and Swallowing Committee. It will be an open forum and interactive discussion on the management of dysphagia and aspiration in the pediatric population. The panelists will discuss diagnostic methods as well as medical and surgical treatment options. They will assist the attendee in understanding the pathophysiology and morbidity of chronic aspiration in children. A case presentation format will be used and the audience will be able to help determine the focus of the discussion. Attendees will have the opportunity to submit a case for presentation by emailing to [e-mail] prior to the meeting. Each case presented will have a set of questions developed regarding differential diagnosis, evaluation, and treatment for the audience to select prior to discussion by the panel. The audience response will be a springboard for more in-depth discussions. Controversies that will be reviewed include the use of videofluoroscopic swallow studies vs fiber optic endoscopic evaluation of swallowing; sialorrhea management options, including botox, ductal ligation, and salivary gland excision, and surgical management options for persistent aspiration following maximal treatment for sialorrhea and GERD.

Educational Objectives: 1) Understand diagnostic tests available for children with dysphagia and aspiration. 2) Formulate algorithm for investigation of children who present with symptoms of dysphagia and aspiration. 3) Understand treatment options for mild, moderate, and severe dysphagia and aspiration.