Effects of non-nutritive sucking habits on malocclusions: a systematic review.

The development of the craniomandibular system is guided by genetic interactions and environmental factors, including specific habits such as breastfeeding, bottle feeding, thumb sucking and the use of pacifiers. These habits can have a considerable impact on the growth of the developing jaws and can lead to malocclusion in children. This review aims to investigate potential associations between non-nutritive sucking habits (NNSHs) and malocclusions compared to the presence of nutritive sucking habits (NSHs). To carry out this systematic review, we followed the PRISMA protocol and performed a bibliographic search of the existing literature until April 2023 in the following electronic databases: Medline, PubMed, The Cochrane Library and Embase. Out of a total of 153 records, we included 21 studies. We found that the chances of diagnosing a malocclusion were higher for children with bottle nutrition when compared to breast-fed children. Breastfeeding provides protection against malocclusions. In the same manner, persistent NNSH habits appeared to be associated with increased chances of having malocclusions. The longer the child was breastfed, the shorter the duration of the pacifier habit and the lower the risk of developing moderate/severe malocclusions. The duration of the habits has a positive influence on the appearance of occlusion defects.

Non-Nutritive Suck Parameters Measurements Using a Custom Pressure Transducer System.

The non-nutritive suck (NNS) device is a transportable, user-friendly pressure transducer system that quantifies infants' NNS behavior on a pacifier. Recording and analysis of the NNS signal using our system can provide measures of an infant's NNS burst duration (s), amplitude (cmH2O), and frequency (Hz). Accurate, reliable, and quantitative assessment of NNS has immense value in serving as a biomarker for future feeding, speech-language, cognitive, and motor development. The NNS device has been used in numerous research lines, some of which have included measuring NNS features to investigate the effects of feeding-related interventions, characterizing NNS development across populations, and correlating sucking behaviors with subsequent neurodevelopment. The device has also been used in environmental health research to examine how exposures in utero can influence infant NNS development. Thus, the overarching goal in research and clinical utilization of the NNS device is to correlate NNS parameters with neurodevelopmental outcomes to identify children at risk for developmental delays and provide rapid early intervention.

Application of Statistical Analysis and Machine Learning to Identify Infants' Abnormal Suckling Behavior.

OBJECTIVE: Identify infants with abnormal suckling behavior from simple non-nutritive suckling devices. BACKGROUND: While it is well known breastfeeding is beneficial to the health of both mothers and infants, breastfeeding ceases in 75 percent of mother-child dyads by 6 months. The current standard of care lacks objective measurements to screen infant suckling abnormalities within the first few days of life, a critical time to establish milk supply and successful breastfeeding practices. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A non-nutritive suckling vacuum measurement system, previously developed by the authors, is used to gather data from 91 healthy full-term infants under thirty days old. Non-nutritive suckling was recorded for a duration of sixty seconds. We establish normative data for the mean suck vacuum, maximum suck vacuum, suckling frequency, burst duration, sucks per burst, and vacuum signal shape. We then apply computational methods (Mahalanobis distance, KNN) to detect anomalies in the data to identify infants with abnormal suckling. We finally provide case studies of healthy newborn infants and infants diagnosed with ankyloglossia. RESULTS: In a series of case evaluations, we demonstrate the ability to detect abnormal suckling behavior using statistical analysis and machine learning. We evaluate cases of ankyloglossia to determine how oral dysfunction and surgical interventions affect non-nutritive suckling measurements. CONCLUSIONS: Statistical analysis (Mahalanobis Distance) and machine learning [K nearest neighbor (KNN)] can be viable approaches to rapidly interpret infant suckling measurements. Particularly in practices using the digital suck assessment with a gloved finger, it can provide a more objective, early stage screening method to identify abnormal infant suckling vacuum. This approach for identifying those at risk for breastfeeding complications is crucial to complement complex emerging clinical evaluation technology. CLINICAL IMPACT: By analyzing non-nutritive suckling using computational methods, we demonstrate the ability to detect abnormal and normal behavior in infant suckling that can inform breastfeeding intervention pathways in clinic.Clinical and Translational Impact Statement: The work serves to shed light on the lack of consensus for determining appropriate intervention pathways for infant oral dysfunction. We demonstrate using statistical analysis and machine learning that normal and abnormal infant suckling can be identified and used in determining if surgical intervention is a necessary solution to resolve infant feeding difficulties.

Characterization of parameters for the analysis of objective measures of non-nutritive sucking of newborns. / Caracterização de parâmetros para análise de medidas objetivas da sucção não-nutritiva de recém-nascidos.

PURPOSE: To propose a methodology for analyzing data generated by an instrument measuring non-nutritive sucking pressure in newborns. METHODS: An analytical observational study was developed, with a cross-sectional design, considering the data collected from 24 full-term newborns without complications. Three collections from each neonate were analyzed, with duration of 2 minutes and a 2-minute interval between them. The defined parameters were extracted using a program developed in Matlab®. The results were obtained by analyzing and comparing 12 variables at a 5% confidence level. Comparison of manual and computerized analyzes was also carried out using the intraclass correlation coefficient. RESULTS: The multiple comparison between the three collection moments showed that the significant statistical differences occurred between collections one and two and two and three. When analyzing and comparing each variable separately, it was noted that the second collection showed: greater number of sucking groups, greater number of suctions, less time to start the sucking groups, longer time of sucking groups, less number of sporadic suctions, higher mean pressure values and with less standard deviation, more number of pauses with shorter time of pauses. The intraclass correlation coefficient revealed almost perfect agreement for the 12 evaluated parameters. CONCLUSION: The 12 variables analyzed are relevant, especially in the second collection. The Matlab® program proved to be viable and effective in extracting and analyzing parameters, showing high agreement when compared to manual evaluation.

OBJETIVO: Propor uma metodologia de análise dos dados gerados por um instrumento de medição da pressão de sucção não-nutritiva do recém-nascido. MÉTODO: Estudo observacional analítico, transversal com dados de 24 recém-nascidos a termo sem comprometimentos. Após a avaliação clínica foram analisadas três coletas de cada neonato empregando-se o referido instrumento, com duração de 2 minutos e intervalo de 2 minutos entre elas. Os parâmetros definidos foram extraídos por meio de um programa desenvolvido em Matlab®. Os resultados foram obtidos pela análise e comparação de 12 variáveis ao nível de confiança de 5%. Foi realizada ainda comparação das análises manual e computadorizada por meio do coeficiente de correlação intraclasse. RESULTADOS: A comparação múltipla entre os três momentos de coleta, mostrou que as diferenças estatísticas significantes ocorreram entre as coletas um e dois e dois e três. Ao se analisar e comparar cada variável separadamente, notou-se que a segunda coleta apresentou: maior número de grupos de sucção, maior número de sucções, menor tempo para iniciar os grupos de sucção, maior tempo de grupos de sucção, menor número de sucções esporádicas, valores de pressão média maiores e com menor desvio padrão, maior número de pausas com tempo de pausas menor. O coeficiente de correlação intraclasse revelou concordância quase perfeita para os 12 parâmetros avaliados. CONCLUSÃO: As 12 variáveis analisadas mostram-se relevantes, especialmente na segunda coleta. O programa em Matlab® mostrou-se viável e eficaz na extração e análise dos parâmetros, apresentando alta concordância quando comparado à avaliação manual.

Effects of implementing non-nutritive sucking on oral feeding progression and outcomes in preterm infants: A systematic review and meta-analysis.

BACKGROUND: Preterm infants have imperfect neurological development, uncoordinated sucking-swallowing-breathing, which makes it difficult to realize effective oral feeding after birth. How to help preterm infants achieve complete oral feeding as soon as possible has become an important issue in the management of preterm infants. Non-nutritive sucking (NNS), as a useful oral stimulation, can improve the effect of oral feeding in preterm infants. This review aimed to explore the effect of NNS on oral feeding progression through a meta-analysis. METHODS: We systematically searched PubMed, CINHAL, Web of Science, Embase, Cochrane databases, China's National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI), Wanfang and VIP database from inception to January 20, 2024. Search terms included 'non-nutritive sucking' 'oral feeding' and 'premature.' Eligibility criteria involved randomized controlled studies in English or Chinese. Studies were excluded if they were reviews, case reports, or observational studies from which valid data could not be extracted or outcome indicators were poorly defined. The meta-analysis will utilize Review Manager 5.3 software, employing either random-effects or fixed-effects models based on observed heterogeneity. We calculated the mean difference (MD) and 95% confidence interval (CI) for continuous data, and estimated pooled odds ratios (ORs) for dichotomous data. Sensitivity and publication bias analyses were conducted to ensure robust and reliable findings. We evaluated the methodological quality of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) utilizing the assessment tool provided by the Cochrane Collaboration. RESULTS: A total of 23 randomized controlled trials with 1461 preterm infants were included. The results of the meta-analysis showed that NNS significantly shortened time taken to achieve exclusive oral feeding (MD = -5.37,95%CI = -7.48 to-3.26, p<0.001), length of hospital stay(MD = -4.92, 95% CI = -6.76 to -3.09, p<0.001), time to start oral feeding(MD = -1.41, 95% CI = -2.36 to -0.45, p = 0.004), time to return to birth weight(MD = -1.72, 95% CI = -2.54 to -0.91, p<0.001). Compared to the NNS group, the control group had significant weight gain in preterm infants, including weight of discharge (MD = -61.10, 95% CI = -94.97 to -27.23, p = 0.0004), weight at full oral feeding (MD = -86.21, 95% CI = -134.37 to -38.05, p = 0.0005). In addition, NNS reduced the incidence of feeding intolerance (OR = 0.22, 95% CI = 0.14 to 0.35, p<0.001) in preterm infants. CONCLUSION: NNS improves oral feeding outcomes in preterm infants and reduces the time to reach full oral feeding and hospitalization length. However, this study was limited by the relatively small sample size of included studies and did not account for potential confounding factors. There was some heterogeneity and bias between studies. More studies are needed in the future to validate the effects on weight gain and growth in preterm infants. Nevertheless, our meta-analysis provides valuable insights, updating existing evidence on NNS for improving oral feeding in preterm infants and promoting evidence-based feeding practices in this population.

Prontidão para via oral, aleitamento materno e diabetes mellitus gestacional: estudo caso-controle / Readiness for way oral, breastfeeding and gestational diabetes mellitus: a case-control study

RESUMO Objetivo verificar a prontidão para via oral e aleitamento materno em recém-nascidos de mães diagnosticadas com diabetes mellitus gestacional (DMG). Métodos estudo observacional, analítico, quantitativo, do tipo caso-controle. Para avaliação da sucção não nutritiva, foi utilizado o Protocolo de Prontidão do Prematuro para Início da Alimentação por Via Oral - POFRAS e, para avaliação do desempenho em seio materno, o Protocolo de Acompanhamento Fonoaudiológico - Aleitamento Materno. A amostra foi estratificada em dois grupos, sendo o grupo experimental composto por recém-nascidos de mães diagnosticadas com DMG e o grupo-controle, por recém-nascidos de mães hígidas. Para a análise estatística, foram utilizados os testes Mann-Whitney, Shapiro Wilk e t de Student. Resultados a amostra total foi composta por 46 recém-nascidos, sendo 21 do grupo experimental e 25 do grupo-controle. Observou-se p<0,05 na comparação entre os grupos nas seguintes variáveis: oscilação do estado de consciência, hipotonia global, reflexo de procura débil, menos de cinco sucções por pausa na avaliação da sucção não nutritiva, pega em seio, adormecimento após iniciar sucção e posicionamento mãe-bebê. Conclusão recém-nascidos de mães diagnosticadas com DMG apresentaram maior dificuldade na prontidão para via oral e na prática do aleitamento materno nas primeiras 72 horas de vida, comparados aos filhos de mães hígidas.

ABSTRACT Purpose to verify the readiness for oral feeding and breastfeeding in newborns of mothers diagnosed with gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM). Methods observational, analytical, quantitative case-control study. For the evaluation of non-nutritive sucking, the PROFAS protocol was used and for the evaluation of performance at the mother's breast, the protocol of Speech Therapy - Breastfeeding. The sample was stratified into two groups, the experimental group, composed of newborns of mothers diagnosed with GDM, and the control group, with newborns of healthy mothers. For statistical analysis, the Mann-Whitney, Shapiro Wilk and Student's t tests were used. Results the total sample consisted of 46 newborns, 21 from the experimental group and 25 from the control group. P<0.05 was observed in the comparison between the groups in the variables: oscillation in the state of consciousness, global hypotonia, weak search reflex, less than five suctions per pause in the assessment of non-nutritive sucking, holding on to the breast, falling asleep after starting suction and mother-infant positioning. Conclusion newborns of mothers diagnosed with GDM had greater difficulty in readiness for oral feeding and in the practice of breastfeeding in the first 72 hours of life, compared to children of healthy mothers.

The influence of malocclusion, sucking habits and dental caries in the masticatory function of preschool children

Abstract The aim of this study was to evaluate the association of malocclusion, nutritive and non-nutritive sucking habits and dental caries in the masticatory function of preschool children. A cross-sectional study was conducted with a sample of 384 children aged 3-5 years. A single examiner calibrated for oral clinical examinations performed all the evaluations (kappa > 0.82). Presence of malocclusion was recorded using Foster and Hamilton criteria. The number of masticatory units and of posterior teeth cavitated by dental caries was also recorded. The parents answered a questionnaire in the form of an interview, addressing questions about the child's nutritive and non-nutritive sucking habits. The masticatory function was evaluated using Optocal test material, and was based on the median particle size in the masticatory performance, on the swallowing threshold, and on the number of masticatory cycles during the swallowing threshold. Data analysis involved simple and multiple linear regression analyses, and the confidence level adopted was 95%. The sample consisted of 206 children in the malocclusion group and 178 in the non-malocclusion group. In the multiple regression analysis, the masticatory performance was associated with age (p = 0.025), bottle feeding (p = 0.004), presence of malocclusion (p = 0.048) and number of cavitated posterior teeth (p = 0.030). The swallowing threshold was associated with age (p = 0.025), bottle feeding (p = 0.001) and posterior malocclusion (p = 0.017). The number of masticatory cycles during the swallowing threshold was associated with the number of cavitated posterior teeth (p = 0.001). In conclusion, posterior malocclusion, bottle feeding and dental caries may interfere in the masticatory function of preschool children.

Rehabilitación de las alteraciones en la succión y deglución en recién nacidos prematuros de la unidad de cuidados intensivos neonatales / Rehabilitation of sucking and swallowing alterations in premature newborn at the neonatal intensive care unit

Resumen En 20 años se han atendido 640 recién nacidos prematuros (RNP) y recién nacidos a término con alteraciones en la coordinación de la succión-deglución en la unidad de cuidados intensivos neonatales del Hospital Infantil de México Federico Gómez, empleado técnicas de tratamiento para pacientes con inmadurez, patologías de tipo neurológico, gastrointestinal, cardiológico y respiratorio. El presente trabajo describe el tratamiento empleado principalmente en RNP durante este periodo. La coordinación de la succión-deglución-respiración es una de las habilidades más complejas a las que se enfrenta el RNP, debido a que presenta inmadurez anatomofuncional y una incorrecta integración sensoriomotriz para los altos requerimientos energéticos a los que debe someterse. La succión y la deglución son procesos voluntarios e involuntarios que garantizan el paso seguro de alimentos de la boca al estómago, y requieren la coordinación de algunos pares craneales, del tronco y la corteza cerebral, y de los músculos de la boca, la faringe y el esófago. El tratamiento de rehabilitación consiste en el posicionamiento del niño y el cuidador al momento de la alimentación, la regulación de la sensibilidad y el tono muscular perioral e intraoral, la coordinación lingual, el cierre labial, la regulación del flujo de leche, el control de la velocidad de las salvas y la adaptación de tetinas tanto para biberón como para seno materno. El procesamiento de la alimentación con el tratamiento se logró reducir a semana y media, mientras que en los RNP sin tratamiento este proceso llegó a tomar hasta 3 semanas.

Abstract Over the last 20 years, 640 premature newborns with alterations in suction-deglution have been taken care of in the neonatal intensive care unit at the Hospital Infantil de México Federico Gómez, using techniques for patients with immaturity, and neurological, gastrointestinal, cardiologic and respiratory pathologies. This descriptive study includes the treatment employed mainly in premature newborns during this period. Suction, swallowing and breathing coordination are some of the most complex abilities that premature newborns face, due to their anatomofunctional immaturity and improper sensoriomotor integration for the high energy requirements they must meet. Sucking and swallowing are voluntary and involuntary processes that guarantee the safe passage of food from mouth to stomach, and require the coordination of the cranial nerves, the brain stem and cerebral cortex and muscles of the mouth, pharynx and esophagus. The rehabilitation treatment consists in the positioning of the newborn and caretaker, adaptation of teat, regulation of muscle tone and progressive intake of milk. The feeding processing was reduced to 1.5 weeks in newborns submitted to treatment, whereas in those who did not receive the treatment, the proccess took up to 3 weeks.

Association between pacifier use and bottle-feeding and unfavorable behaviors during breastfeeding / Associação entre uso de chupeta e mamadeira e comportamentos desfavoráveis à amamentação durante as mamadas

Abstract Objective: To investigate the association between pacifier use and bottle-feeding and unfavorable behaviors during breastfeeding. Method: A cross-sectional study was conducted with 427 babies/mothers. Socio-demographic, perinatal data, and information about the use of artificial nipples (pacifier and/or bottle) were collected through a questionnaire. The breastfeeding aspects regarding position, affectivity, sucking behavior, baby responses, and breast anatomy were evaluated through observation during breastfeeding. The chi-squared test and the multiple linear regression analysis were used to investigate the association between the variables. Results: The aspects of breastfeeding that showed higher percentages of the category "poor" were sucking behavior (22.5%) and position (22.2%). The group of infants who used pacifiers and/or bottle showed higher percentages in the poor and fair categories when compared with the good category for all five breastfeeding aspects evaluated (p < 0.001). The linear regression analysis revealed that the increase in the number of unfavorable behaviors regarding position, affectivity, sucking behavior, and baby responses were independently associated with both pacifier and bottle use (β positive, p < 0.05), while breast anatomy was independently associated only with bottle use. Conclusion: The findings suggest that the use of pacifiers and/or bottle-feeding may be associated with unfavorable behaviors during breastfeeding, especially the use of bottle-feeding.

Resumo Objetivo: Investigar a associação entre uso de chupeta e mamadeira e comportamentos desfavoráveis à amamentação durante as mamadas. Métodos: Um estudo transversal foi conduzido com 427 bebês/mães. Foram coletados dados sociodemográficos, perinatais e sobre o uso de bicos artificiais (chupeta e/ou mamadeira) através de questionário. Os aspectos de amamentação referentes à posição, afetividade, adequação da sucção, respostas do bebê e anatomia das mamas foram avaliados através da observação durante a mamada. O teste qui-quadrado e a análise de regressão linear múltipla foram usados para investigar associação entre as variáveis. Resultados: Os aspectos de amamentação que apresentaram percentuais mais elevados da categoria ruim foram a adequação da sucção (22,5%) e posição (22,2%). O grupo de bebês que usavam chupeta e/ou mamadeira apresentou percentuais mais elevados nas categorias ruim e regular quando comparados com a categoria bom para todos os cinco aspectos da amamentação avaliados (p < 0,001). A análise de regressão linear revelou que o incremento do número de comportamentos desfavoráveis referentes à posição, afetividade, adequação da sucção e respostas do bebê estavam associados de forma independente tanto ao uso de chupeta quanto ao uso de mamadeira (β positivo, p < 0,05), enquanto que anatomia das mamas estava associado de forma independente apenas com o uso de mamadeira. Conclusão: Os achados sugerem que o uso de chupeta e/ou mamadeira pode estar associado a comportamentos desfavoráveis durante amamentação, em especial o uso de mamadeira.

Pacifier use modifies the association between breastfeeding and malocclusion: a cross-sectional study

Abstract This study aimed to evaluate the influence of breastfeeding and pacifier use on the occlusal status of preschool children. A cross-sectional study was conducted with children (n = 489) aged 2-5 years in private and public schools in Pelotas, South Brazil. Mothers answered a questionnaire on demographic, socioeconomic and behavioral variables, including breastfeeding and non-nutritive sucking habits. Malocclusion was classified as normal/mild and moderate/severe, according to WHO criteria. The association between breastfeeding and pacifier use with malocclusion was tested using multivariate logistic regression. The prevalence of malocclusion was 37.83% (95%CI 33.52-42.14), and 57.87% of the children used a pacifier. A total of 46.01% of the sample was exclusively breastfed for 6 months, and 24.74% were never breastfed. Malocclusion was associated with pacifier use, and with both non-exclusively breastfed and never breastfed. After adjustments for demographic and socioeconomic variables, the children who used a pacifier and were never breastfed (OR = 19.08; 95%CI 8.54-42.63), or who used a pacifier and were not exclusively breastfed (OR = 13.74; 95%CI 6.11-30.92), showed worse occlusal conditions, compared with the children who were exclusively breastfed and never used a pacifier. Pacifier use modifies the relationship between breastfeeding and occlusal status.

Influence of head and linear growth on the development of malocclusion at six years of age: a cohort study

Abstract The aim of this article was to evaluate the influence of biological and sociobehavioral factors on the development of malocclusions in children. This is a cross-sectional study nested in a cohort of 350 children who participated in a community intervention study. After six years, an active search identified 290 children with occlusal abnormalities. Socioeconomic status, linear growth, and nutritional status of the child at birth and at the time of measurement, as well as dietary and sucking habits, were investigated. Malocclusions were evaluated across three spatial planes - anteroposterior, vertical, and transverse. The prevalence of these anomalies was 64.5%, primarily in the anteroposterior plane. The logistic regression analysis revealed that pacifier use for 60 months or more, stunting as measured at age six, and reduced gain in head circumference from birth to six years of age, were significantly associated with the development of malocclusion in childhood. Head circumference and linear growth are associated with occlusal anomalies in infants, independent of pacifier sucking.

A relação entre saturação de oxigênio, idade gestacional e nível de habilidade de alimentação oral de recém-nascido pré-termo / Relationship between oxygen saturation, gestational age, and level of oral feeding skills in preterm infants

RESUMO Objetivo Correlacionar a saturação periférica de oxigênio com a idade gestacional e com o nível de habilidade de alimentação oral, na introdução da alimentação oral, de recém-nascidos pré-termo. Método Estudo transversal e quantitativo no qual participaram 169 recém-nascidos pré-termo, clinicamente estáveis. A verificação da saturação de oxigênio foi realizada antes e após a introdução da primeira alimentação por via oral. Os recém-nascidos pré-termo foram estratificados em três grupos baseados na idade gestacional ao nascimento: 26-29, 30-33 e 34-36 semanas. A habilidade para alimentação oral foi classificada em quatro níveis com base na habilidade oral e resistência apresentada pelo recém-nascido pré-termo. Resultados Não houve diferença na saturação periférica de oxigênio entre os estratos da idade gestacional e entre os níveis de habilidade oral. Foram observadas diferenças nos grupos com idade gestacional de 30-33 semanas (p=0,04) e 34-36 semanas (p=0,02) e no nível I de habilidade de alimentação oral (p=0,04) quando comparada com a saturação inicial e final. Correlações significativas (p<0,001) foram encontradas entre a idade gestacional e níveis de habilidade oral (r=0,38); no Grupo A, entre a idade gestacional e a saturação inicial (r=0,83); e, no Grupo B, entre o nível de habilidade oral com a saturação inicial, e com a idade gestacional. Conclusão A saturação de oxigênio apresentou correlação quando comparada com a idade gestacional e com o nível de habilidade oral.

ABSTRACT Purpose To correlate the peripheral oxygen saturation with gestational age and the level of oral feeding skills in the introduction of oral feeding in preterm infants. Methods This is a cross-sectional, quantitative study whose sample was composed of 169 clinically stable preterm infants. Peripheral oxygen saturation was assessed before and after introduction of oral feeding. The preterm infants were stratified into three groups based on their gestational age at birth: 26-29, 30-33, and 34-36 weeks. The preterm infants were classified into four levels according to their oral feeding skill and resistance. Results No differences in oxygen saturation were observed between the strata of gestational age and between the levels of oral feeding skill. Differences were observed in the groups of preterm infants aged 30-33 weeks (p=0.04) and 34-36 weeks (p=0.02) and on the level I of oral feeding skills (p=0.04) when oxygen saturation was compared at pre- and post-first oral feeding. Significant correlations (p<0.001) were found between gestational age and the levels of oral feeding skills (r=0.38); in Group A, between gestational age and oxygen saturation before the first oral feeding (r=0.83); in Group B, between the level of oral feeding skill and oxygen saturation before the first oral feeding (r=0.26) and between level of oral feeding skill and gestational age (r=0.26). Conclusion Correlation was found for peripheral oxygen saturation when compared with gestational age and with the level of oral feeding skills.

Parâmetros cardiorrespiratórios e sua relação com a idade gestacional e nível de habilidade de alimentação oral de recém-nascido pré-termo / Cardiorespiratory parameters and their relation with gestational age and level of oral feeding skills in preterm infants

RESUMO Objetivo Correlacionar os parâmetros cardiorrespiratórios com a idade gestacional e com o nível de habilidade de alimentação oral na introdução da alimentação oral de recém-nascidos pré-termo. Método Participaram desta pesquisa 37 recém-nascidos pré-termo, clinicamente estáveis. A verificação das frequências cardíaca e respiratória foi realizada antes e após a introdução da primeira alimentação por via oral. Os recém-nascidos foram distribuídos em três estratos conforme a idade gestacional do nascimento. A habilidade oral foi classificada em quatro níveis: I - baixa habilidade oral e baixa resistência para alimentação; II - baixa habilidade oral e alta resistência para alimentação; III - alta habilidade oral e baixa resistência para alimentação; IV - alta habilidade oral e alta resistência para alimentação. Resultados Não houve diferença na frequência cardíaca e respiratória entre os estratos da idade gestacional e entre os níveis de habilidade oral. Ao comparar a frequência cardíaca e respiratória inicial e final dentro de cada nível de habilidade oral e estrato da idade gestacional, observou-se diferença entre a frequência cardíaca nos estratos das idades gestacionais entre 30 e 33 semanas e entre 34 e 36 semanas, bem como nos níveis de habilidade oral I, II e IV; com relação à comparação entre a frequência respiratória inicial e final, foi encontrada diferença no nível I de habilidade de alimentação oral. Conclusão As frequências cardíaca e respiratória sofreram alterações quando comparadas com dados pré e pós-prandial na primeira alimentação por via oral, assim como quando comparadas sobre aspectos da idade gestacional e nível de habilidade oral.

ABSTRACT Purpose To correlate cardiorespiratory parameters with gestational age and level of oral feeding skills in the first oral feeding in preterm infants. Methods Study participants were 37 clinically stable preterm infants. Cardiorespiratory rate was assessed before and after introduction of oral feeding. The newborns were divided into three strata according to gestational age at birth. Oral skill was classified into four levels: I - low oral skill and low resistance to feeding; II - low oral skill and high resistance to feeding; III - high oral skill and low resistance to feeding; IV - high oral skill and high resistance to feeding. Results No difference was observed in heart and respiratory rate between the strata of gestational age at birth and between the levels of oral skill. Comparison between pre- and post-cardiorespiratory rates within each level of oral skill and stratum of gestational age showed difference between heart rate in the strata of gestational ages of 30 to 33 weeks and of 34 to 36 weeks, as well as between oral skill of levels I, II, and IV. With regard to the comparison between pre- and post- respiratory rates, difference was found in the oral skill of level I. Conclusion Differences were observed between pre- and post-prandial cardiorespiratory rates regarding the first oral feeding, as well as between strata of gestational age at birth and levels of oral feeding skills.

Avaliação para o início da alimentação oral de recém-nascidos pré-termo / Assessment for oral feeding in preterm infants

RESUMO Objetivo avaliar a acurácia do Preterm Oral Feeding Readiness Scale - POFRAS para iniciar a alimentação oral de recém-nascidos pré-termo e verificar a concordância entre este instrumento e o instrumento de avaliação do Nível de Habilidade Oral. Métodos Foram avaliados 82 recém-nascidos pré-termo quanto à prontidão para o início da alimentação oral através do POFRAS e da avaliação do Nível de Habilidade Oral, durante a primeira alimentação oral. A acurácia do POFRAS foi estimada em relação à variável proficiência, por meio da Curva ROC (Receiver Operating Characteristic Curve). Para a análise da concordância entre os instrumentos, foi utilizado o coeficiente Kappa. Resultados A acurácia global do POFRAS foi de 71,29%. O ponto de corte 29 foi o que apresentou melhor equilíbrio entre sensibilidade e especificidade. O coeficiente Kappa mostrou fraca concordância entre os instrumentos na identificação dos RN aptos e inaptos a mamar por via oral (k=0.281). Conclusão a acurácia do POFRAS para o início da alimentação oral, estimada por meio da variável proficiência, foi semelhante à obtida com a técnica de translactação. Observou-se fraca concordância entre os instrumentos avaliados. Sugere-se, portanto, que estes instrumentos de avaliação sejam usados de forma complementar na prática clínica, uma vez que ambos apresentam aspectos importantes do comportamento alimentar do prematuro, que ao serem analisados conjuntamente permitirão orientar a conduta necessária para propiciar uma transição alimentar mais breve e eficaz para essa população.

ABSTRACT Purpose To assess the accuracy of the Preterm Oral Feeding Readiness Scale (POFRAS) on the beginning of oral feeding in preterm infants and to verify the concordance between this tool and the Oral Feeding Skill Level. Methods 82 preterm infants were assessed by POFRAS regarding their readiness to initiate oral feeding and by the oral feeding skill level evaluation during the first oral feeding. POFRAS's accuracy was estimated regarding proficiency by a Receiver Operating Characteristics (ROC) curve. The concordance between the tools was obtained by analysis of the Kappa coefficient. Results POFRAS's global accuracy was of 71.29%. The cut-off value of 29 was the one that presented most optimization of the sensitivity based on specificity. The Kappa coefficient has shown a weak concordance between the instruments to identify infants able and unable to oral feeding (k=0.281). Conclusion POFRAS's accuracy to initiate oral feeding considering the proficiency was similar to that obtained with the technique of translactation. We observed a weak concordance between the instruments. We suggest that, in clinical practice, both instruments should be used in a complementary manner, since both present important aspects of the preterm feeding behavior that together will better guide the necessary conduct to provide an effective and quick transition to full oral feeding in this population.

Electromyography of muscles involved in feeding premature infants / Avaliação eletromiográfica dos músculos envolvidos na alimentação de recém-nascidos prematuros

PURPOSE: To measure and compare the electrical activity of masseter, temporal, and suprahyoid muscles in premature newborn infants during breast-feeding and cup-feeding.METHODS: This cross-sectional observational study was carried out by the electromyographic assessment of 36 preterm infants, 53% of whom were male, with mean gestational age of 32 weeks and birth weight of 1,719 g, fed via oral route, by full breast-feeding and supplementation of diet, through cup with expressed breast milk, until 15 days after hospital discharge. Children with neurological disorders, genetic syndromes, oral-motor, and/or congenital malformations were excluded. The different methods of feeding and the variables gestational age at birth, corrected gestational age, chronological age, birth weight and size, head circumference, and Apgar scores at 1 and 5 minutes were analyzed and compared by appropriate statistical analysis.RESULTS: No difference was observed between breast-feeding and cup-feeding in the analysis of the temporal and masseter muscles. However, higher activity of suprahyoid musculature was observed during cup-feeding (p=0.001). The other variables were not correlated with the electrical activity of the muscles during the different feeding methods.CONCLUSION: There may be a balance between the activity of the temporal and masseter muscles during breast-feeding and cup-feeding. There was higher activity of suprahyoid musculature during cup-feeding. This can be explained by the greater range of tongue movement, as premature infants usually perform tongue protrusion to get the milk from the cup.

OBJETIVOS: Mensurar e comparar a atividade elétrica dos músculos temporal, masseter e supra-hióideos de prematuros durante o aleitamento materno e por copo.MÉTODOS: Estudo transversal observacional, realizado por meio da avaliação eletromiográfica de superfície em 36 prematuros, 53% do gênero masculino, com idade gestacional média de 32 semanas e peso médio ao nascimento de 1.719 g, em aleitamento misto, com suplementação de dieta por copo, até 15 dias após a alta hospitalar. Crianças com alterações neurológicas, síndromes genéticas, malformações craniofaciais, que utilizaram mamadeira, chupeta e/ou bico intermediário de silicone foram excluídas. A atividade elétrica dos músculos temporal, masseter e supra-hióideos foi comparada nos diferentes tipos de alimentação, entre os gêneros e entre as classificações do Apgar no 1º e 5º minuto e correlacionadas às variáveis idade gestacional ao nascimento, idade corrigida, idade cronológica, peso ao nascimento, estatura e perímetro cefálico ao nascimento.RESULTADOS: Não houve diferença entre os métodos de alimentação avaliados quanto à atividade elétrica dos músculos temporal e masseter, no entanto verificou-se maior atividade da musculatura supra-hióidea durante a alimentação por copo (p=0,001). As demais variáveis não apresentaram correlação com a atividade elétrica dos músculos estudados durante os diferentes métodos de alimentação.CONCLUSÃO: Parece haver equilíbrio entre a atividade dos músculos temporal e masseter durante a alimentação ao seio materno e por copo. A musculatura supra-hióidea apresentou-se mais ativa no copo, o pode ser justificado pela maior amplitude de movimentação da língua, já que geralmente os RNPT realizam a protrusão da língua para obter o leite no copo.

Premature: growth and its relation to oral skills / Prematuros: crescimento e sua relação com as habilidades orais

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the influence of oral motor skills of premature infants on their oral feeding performance and growth, during neonatal hospitalization.METHODS: Fifty-one newborns hospitalized in the neonatal intensive care unit of a hospital in Southern Brazil, between July 2012 and March 2013, were evaluated. The evaluation of oral feeding skills, according to Lau and Smith, was applied after prescription for starting oral feeding. The oral feeding performance was analyzed using the following variables: days taken to start independent oral feeding and hospital discharge. Growth was measured by weight, length, and head circumference, using the curves of Fenton, at birth, first and independent oral feeding, and hospital discharge.RESULTS: At birth, 71% preterm infants were proper for gestational age, most of them were males (53%), with average of 33.6 (±1.5) weeks of gestational age. The gestational age in the assessment did not influence the oral feeding performance of the premature infant and did not differ between levels. Time of transition from tube feeding to oral feeding and hospital stay was shorter when the oral skills were higher. At birth, there was a tendency of low weight and low oral feeding performance. Level IV premature infants in the release of oral feeding presented higher weights.CONCLUSION: The level of oral skills of the premature infant interfered positively on time of feeding transition from tube to independent oral feeding and hospital stay. Growth, represented by weight gain, was not affected by the level of oral skill.

OBJETIVO: Avaliar a influência da habilidade motora oral do prematuro sobre seu desempenho alimentar oral e crescimento, durante o período de internação neonatal.MÉTODOS: Foram avaliados 51 recém-nascidos (RNs) internados na Unidade de Tratamento Intensivo (UTI) Neonatal de um hospital do Sul do Brasil, entre julho 2012 e março 2013. A avaliação da habilidade de alimentação oral, segundo Lau e Smith, foi realizada após prescrição para início da alimentação por via oral (VO). O desempenho alimentar oral foi avaliado por meio das variáveis dias de transição da sonda para VO plena e tempo de internação. O crescimento foi avaliado por peso, comprimento e perímetro cefálico (PC), utilizando as curvas de Fenton, no nascimento, liberação VO, VO plena e alta hospitalar.RESULTADOS: Ao nascer, 71% dos prematuros eram adequados para idade gestacional, a maioria era do sexo masculino (53%), tendo média de 33,6 (±1,5) semanas de idade gestacional. A idade gestacional nos momentos avaliados não influenciou na habilidade oral do pré-termo, não diferindo entre os níveis. O tempo de transição da sonda para VO plena e o período de internação hospitalar foram menores quanto maior o nível de habilidade oral. Ao nascer, houve uma tendência a baixo peso e baixa habilidade oral. Na liberação da VO, as crianças do nível IV apresentaram maior peso.CONCLUSÃO: O nível de habilidade oral do prematuro interferiu positivamente no tempo de transição alimentar da sonda para VO plena e permanência hospitalar. O crescimento, representado pelo ganho de peso, não sofreu influência do nível de habilidade oral.

Lactancia masculina inducida / Induced male lactation

Para crear el mundo que se vislumbra en la Declaración del Milenio, aprobada en las Naciones Unidas, es esencial la igualdad entre los géneros. En las mujeres, que son las cuidadoras primarias de los niños, cada día es más preocupante el abandono parcial -o total- de la lactancia natural. En la etapa embrionaria el desarrollo de las estructuras que forman los tejidos mamarios es el mismo para ambos sexos. Las tetillas en los varones, que son el equivalente de las mamas en la mujer, por mucho tiempo fueron consideradas un misterio, pues aparentemente no cumplen con ninguna función biológica y cuya presencia plantea un problema para la teoría de la evolución. Sin embargo, de diferentes latitudes del planeta se reportan hombres que han logrado una lactancia inducida con solo la succión frecuente y prolongada del bebé. Si esto ha ocurrido en hombres con mamas subdesarrolladas, ¿cómo es posible que las mujeres, que están mejor preparadas para este fin, abandonen la lactancia? Ante la interrogante de ¿puede el hombre lactar?, se realizó una búsqueda sobre lactancia masculina online a través de Infomed e Internet, visitas a Bibliotecas especializadas y al Hospital Universitario “Calixto García” de la capital. El resultado de la búsqueda es sorprendente…, hasta en Cuba hubo un camagüeyano que lactó a su hija durante 22 meses.

For the creation of the world that the UN-approved Millennium Statement envisages, it is essential to achieve the gender equality. It is a growing concern today that many women, who are the primary caregivers of children, stop partially or completely breastfeeding their children. In the embryonic stage, the development of the structures making up the mammary tissue is the same for males and females. Men's teats, which are equivalent to women's breasts, were considered for a very long time a mystery since they do not seem to perform any function and represent a problem for the theory of evolution. However, there have been reports from different parts of the world about lactation induced by men when the baby sucks on their teats in a frequent and prolonged way. If this happens in men whose mammary glands are underdeveloped, how is it possible that women who are better fit for this purpose cease to breastfeed the child? Looking for an answer to the question Can man lactate too?, data search was made online through Infomed and Internet as well as visits were paid to specialized libraries and to “Calixto Garcia” hospital in the Cuban capital. The result was surprising since even in Cuba, there was a man in Camaguey province who managed to lactate his daughter for 22 months.

Non-nutritive sucking evaluation in preterm newborns and the start of oral feeding: a multicenter study

OBJECTIVES: The assessment of early sucking by preterm infants provides information on the ability of these infants to efficiently and safely receive nutrients via an oral route (oral feeding). To analyze the application and reliability of an instrument in assessing non-nutritive sucking that indicates a capacity for oral feeding in the routine care of different neonatal units. METHODS: A multicenter, prospective cohort study was conducted in seven neonatal units. A non-nutritive sucking assessment with a formulary validated by Neiva et al (2008) (variables evaluated: rooting reaction; easy initiation of sucking; labial sealing; tongue central groove; peristaltic tongue movements; jaw raising and lowering movements; labial, tongue and jaw coordination; sucking strength; sucking rhythm; bites; excessive jaw excursion; stress signals) was applied to 199 pre-term newborns, who had a chronological age ≥ 2 days and were clinically stable. These infants were divided into two groups based on their corrected gestational age at the first assessment, as follows: Group I-infants with a gestational age ≤ 33 weeks and Group II-infants with a gestational age between 34 and 36 6/7 weeks. RESULTS: The mean gestational age was 31.66±2 weeks, and the mean birth weight was 1494 ± 373 g. The mean scores on the non-nutritive sucking assessment were 46 ± 25 in Group I and 49 ± 24 in Group II. The beginning of oral feeding was successful in 43 (67.2%) infants in Group I and 64 (81%) infants in Group II (p = 0.089). CONCLUSION: The method identified preterm infants who were able to feed orally based on 33 points in the non-nutritive sucking assessment and a corrected gestational age of 32 weeks or more. The corrected gestational age was the most important factor in predicting the success of oral feeding. .

Assessment of swallowing in preterm newborns fed by bottle and cup / Avaliação da deglutição em prematuros com mamadeira e copo

Purpose: To compare the swallowing performance of premature infants using a cup and a bottle during the first offer of food by mouth. Methods: This study was carried out with preterm newborns who presented low weight at birth and no neurological illnesses, genetic syndromes or congenital malformations. The newborns were assessed by videofluoroscopy while using a cup and a bottle, when they reached a post-conceptual age of ≥34 weeks, weight ≥ 1,500 g and showed signs of readiness for oral feeding. All children were fed exclusively by gavage during the period prior to the study. Results: This study included 20 preterm newborns, with average birth weight of 1,356 g and gestational age of 31.3 weeks. The majority of the bottle-fed newborns (68%) presented strong and rhythmic suction and 63% showed good sucking/swallowing/breathing coordination. The same percentage of newborns fed by cup (68%) could not perform the sipping movement and only 32% could suck a minimal amount of liquid contrast. There were no signs of laryngeal penetration and tracheal aspiration in both procedures. Conclusion: At the first oral feeding, preterm newborns showed better swallowing performance with a bottle in comparison to using a cup. .

Objetivo: Comparar o desempenho da deglutição com uso de copo e mamadeira em prematuros, na primeira oferta do alimento por via oral. Métodos: Estudo em prematuros de muito baixo peso ao nascer, sem comprometimento neurológico, síndromes genéticas ou malformações congênitas. Os recém-nascidos foram avaliados por meio da videofluoroscopia, com uso de copo e mamadeira, quando atingiram idade corrigida ≥34 semanas, peso ≥1.500 g e apresentavam indicação de iniciar alimentação por via oral. Todos receberam alimentação exclusivamente por gavagem no período prévio ao estudo. Resultados: Foram avaliados 20 prematuros, com peso médio de 1.356 g e idade gestacional ao nascimento de 31,3 semanas. Grande parte dos recém-nascidos alimentados por mamadeira (68%) apresentou sucção forte e com ritmo e 63% mostraram boa coordenação das funções sucção/deglutição/respiração. A mesma porcentagem de recém-nascidos alimentados pelo copo (68%) não realizou o movimento de sorver e apenas 32% sorveram quantidades mínimas de contraste líquido. Não foram observados sinais de penetração laríngea e aspiração traqueal em ambos os procedimentos. Conclusão: Na primeira oferta de alimento por via oral, recém-nascidos prematuros apresentaram melhor desempenho na deglutição com o uso da mamadeira em relação ao copo. .

Association between breastfeeding and breathing pattern in children: a sectional study / Associação entre amamentação e padrão de respiração em crianças: estudo transversal

OBJECTIVE: to determine the prevalence of mouth breathing and to associate the history of breastfeeding with breathing patterns in children. METHODS: this was an observational study with 252 children of both genders, aged 30 to 48 months, who participated in a dental care program for mothers and newborns. As an instrument of data collection, a semi-structured questionnaire was administered to the children's mothers assessing the form and duration of breastfeeding and the oral habits of non-nutritive sucking. To determine the breathing patterns that the children had developed, medical history and clinical examination were used. Statistical analysis was conducted to examine the effects of exposure on the primary outcome (mouth breathing), and the prevalence ratio was calculated with a 95% confidence interval. RESULTS: of the total sample, 43.1% of the children were mouth breathers, 48.4% had been breastfed exclusively until six months of age or more, and 27.4% had non-nutritive sucking habits. Statistically significant associations were found for bottle-feeding (p < 0.001) and oral habits of non-nutritive sucking (p = 0.009), with an increased likelihood of children exhibiting a predominantly oral breathing pattern. A statistically significant association was also observed between a longer duration of exclusive breastfeeding and a nasal breathing pattern presented by children. CONCLUSION: an increased duration of exclusive breastfeeding lowers the chances of children exhibiting a predominantly oral breathing pattern. .

OBJETIVO: determinar a prevalência da respiração bucal e associar o histórico de amamentação com os padrões de respiração em crianças. MÉTODOS: este foi um estudo observacional com 252 crianças de ambos os sexos, com idades entre 30-48 meses, que participaram de um programa de assistência odontológica para mães e recém-nascidos. Como um instrumento de coleta de dados, foi entregue um questionário semiestruturado para as mães das crianças com perguntas sobre a forma e a duração da amamentação e os hábitos bucais de sucção não nutritiva. Para determinar os padrões de respiração desenvolvidos nas crianças, foram utilizados o histórico médico e o exame clínico. Foi realizada uma análise estatística para determinar os efeitos de exposição no principal resultado (respiração bucal), e o índice de prevalência foi calculado com um intervalo de confiança de 95%. RESULTADOS: do total da amostra, 43,1% das crianças apresentaram respiração bucal, 48,4% foram amamentados exclusivamente até os seis meses de idade ou mais e 27,4% apresentaram hábitos de sucção não nutritiva. Foram encontradas associações estatisticamente significativas para uso de mamadeira (p < 0,001) e hábitos bucais de sucção não nutritiva (p = 0,009), com um aumento da probabilidade de as crianças apresentarem um padrão de respiração predominantemente bucal. Também foi observada uma associação estatisticamente significativa entre uma maior duração do aleitamento materno exclusivo e um padrão de respiração bucal apresentado pelas crianças. CONCLUSÃO: uma maior duração do aleitamento materno exclusivo diminui ...