Characterizing Biomarkers of Continuous Peristalsis and Bolus Transit During Oral Feeding in Infants at pH-Impedance Evaluation: Clinical and Research Implications.

OBJECTIVE: To examine the biomarkers of pharyngoesophageal swallowing during oral feeding sessions in infants undergoing pH-impedance testing and determine whether swallow frequencies are distinct between oral-fed and partially oral-fed infants. STUDY DESIGN: One oral feeding session was performed in 40 infants during pH-impedance studies and measurements included swallowing frequency, multiple swallow rate, air and liquid swallow rates, esophageal swallow clearance time, and gastroesophageal reflux (GER) characteristics. Linear and mixed statistical models were applied to examine the swallowing markers and outcomes. RESULTS: Infants (30.2 ± 4.4 weeks' birth gestation) were evaluated at 41.2 ± 0.4 weeks' postmenstrual age. Overall, 10 675 swallows were analyzed during the oral feeding sessions (19.3 ± 5.4 minutes per infant) and GER events were noted (2.5 ± 0.3 per study). Twenty-four-hour acid reflux index (ARI) was 9.5 ± 2.0%. Differences were noted in oral-fed and partially oral-fed infants for volume consumption (P < .01), consumption rate (P < .01), and length of hospital stay in days (P < .01). Infants with ARI >7% had greater frequency of swallows (P = .01). The oral-fed group had greater ARI (12.7 ± 3.3%, P = .05). CONCLUSIONS: Oropharyngeal swallowing regulatory characteristics decrease over the feeding duration and were different between ARI >7% vs ≤7%. Although GER is less in infants who are partially oral-fed, the neonates with increased acid exposure achieved greater oral intakes and shorter hospitalizations, despite the presence of comorbidities. Pharyngoesophageal stimulation as during consistent feeding or GER events can activate peristaltic responses and rhythms, which may be contributory to the findings.

The Irritable Infant in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit: Risk Factors and Biomarkers of Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease.

OBJECTIVES: To determine risk factors for arching/irritability in high-risk infants and examine the significance of comorbidity and gastroesophageal reflux (GER) characteristics. STUDY DESIGN: Retrospective analysis of 24-hour pH-impedance studies of symptomatic infants in a neonatal intensive care unit (ICU) (n = 516, 30.1 ± 4.5 weeks of gestation, evaluated at 41.7 ± 3.2 weeks postmenstrual age) was conducted. Comparisons were made between infants with >72 vs ≤72 arching/irritability events per day. We characterized risk factors for arching/irritability along with clinical, pH-impedance, and outcome correlates. RESULTS: Of 39 973 arching/irritability events and 42 155 GER events, the averages per day were 77.6 ± 41.0 and 81.7 ± 48.2, respectively. Acid reflux and impedance bolus characteristics were not significantly different between infants with >72 and ≤72 arching/irritability events (P ≥ .05). The odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) adjusted for postmenstrual age and weight at evaluation were significant for risk factors of preterm birth (2.3 [1.2-4.4]), moderate or severe neuropathology (2.0 [1.1-3.6]), and presence of oral feeding at testing (1.57 [1.07-2.30]). CONCLUSIONS: Acid GER disease is unlikely the primary cause of arching/irritability and empiric treatment should not be used when arching/irritability is present. Prematurity and neurologic impairment may be more likely the cause of the arching/irritability. Arching/irritability may not be a concern in orally fed infants.

Global State of the Art and Science of Childhood Dysphagia: Similarities and Disparities in Burden.

Feeding/swallowing and airway protection are complex functions, essential for survival, and continue to evolve throughout the lifetime. Medical and surgical advances across the globe have improved the long-term survival of medically complex children at the cost of increasing comorbidities, including dysfunctional swallowing (dysphagia). Dysphagia is prominent in children with histories of preterm birth, neurologic and neuromuscular diagnoses, developmental delays, and aerodigestive disorders; and is associated with medical, health, and neurodevelopmental problems; and long-term socioeconomic, caregiver, health system, and social burdens. Despite these survival and population trends, data on global prevalence of childhood dysphagia and associated burdens are limited, and practice variations are common. This article reviews current global population and resource-dependent influences on current trends for children with dysphagia, disparities in the availability and access to specialized multidisciplinary care, and potential impacts on burdens. A patient example will illustrate some questions to be considered and decision-making options in relation to age and development, availability and accessibility to resources, as well as diverse cultures and family values. Precise recognition of feeding/swallowing disorders and follow-up intervention are enhanced by awareness and knowledge of global disparities in resources. Initiatives are needed, which address geographic and economic barriers to providing optimal care to children with dysphagia.

Neurodevelopmental Outcomes of Extremely Preterm Infants Fed Donor Milk or Preterm Infant Formula: A Randomized Clinical Trial.

Importance: Maternal milk feeding of extremely preterm infants during the birth hospitalization has been associated with better neurodevelopmental outcomes compared with preterm formula. For infants receiving no or minimal maternal milk, it is unknown whether donor human milk conveys similar neurodevelopmental advantages vs preterm formula. Objective: To determine if nutrient-fortified, pasteurized donor human milk improves neurodevelopmental outcomes at 22 to 26 months' corrected age compared with preterm infant formula among extremely preterm infants who received minimal maternal milk. Design, Setting, and Participants: Double-blind, randomized clinical trial conducted at 15 US academic medical centers within the Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development Neonatal Research Network. Infants younger than 29 weeks 0 days' gestation or with a birth weight of less than 1000 g were enrolled between September 2012 and March 2019. Intervention: Preterm formula or donor human milk feeding from randomization to 120 days of age, death, or hospital discharge. Main Outcomes and Measures: The primary outcome was the Bayley Scales of Infant and Toddler Development (BSID) cognitive score measured at 22 to 26 months' corrected age; a score of 54 (score range, 54-155; a score of ≥85 indicates no neurodevelopmental delay) was assigned to infants who died between randomization and 22 to 26 months' corrected age. The 24 secondary outcomes included BSID language and motor scores, in-hospital growth, necrotizing enterocolitis, and death. Results: Of 1965 eligible infants, 483 were randomized (239 in the donor milk group and 244 in the preterm formula group); the median gestational age was 26 weeks (IQR, 25-27 weeks), the median birth weight was 840 g (IQR, 676-986 g), and 52% were female. The birthing parent's race was self-reported as Black for 52% (247/478), White for 43% (206/478), and other for 5% (25/478). There were 54 infants who died prior to follow-up; 88% (376/429) of survivors were assessed at 22 to 26 months' corrected age. The adjusted mean BSID cognitive score was 80.7 (SD, 17.4) for the donor milk group vs 81.1 (SD, 16.7) for the preterm formula group (adjusted mean difference, -0.77 [95% CI, -3.93 to 2.39], which was not significant); the adjusted mean BSID language and motor scores also did not differ. Mortality (death prior to follow-up) was 13% (29/231) in the donor milk group vs 11% (25/233) in the preterm formula group (adjusted risk difference, -1% [95% CI, -4% to 2%]). Necrotizing enterocolitis occurred in 4.2% of infants (10/239) in the donor milk group vs 9.0% of infants (22/244) in the preterm formula group (adjusted risk difference, -5% [95% CI, -9% to -2%]). Weight gain was slower in the donor milk group (22.3 g/kg/d [95% CI, 21.3 to 23.3 g/kg/d]) compared with the preterm formula group (24.6 g/kg/d [95% CI, 23.6 to 25.6 g/kg/d]). Conclusions and Relevance: Among extremely preterm neonates fed minimal maternal milk, neurodevelopmental outcomes at 22 to 26 months' corrected age did not differ between infants fed donor milk or preterm formula. Trial Registration: ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT01534481.

What Are the Factors Affecting Total Sleep Time During Video Polysomnography in Infants?

OBJECTIVE: The aim of the study is to investigate factors affecting total sleep time (TST) during infant polysomnography (PSG) and assess if <4 hours of TST is sufficient for accurate interpretation. STUDY DESIGN: Overall, 242 PSGs performed in 194 infants <6 months of chronological age between March 2013 and December 2015 were reviewed to identify factors that affect TST, including age of infant, location and timing of study, presence of medical complexity, and presence of nasal tubes. A continuum of apnea-hypopnea index (AHI) in relation to TST was reviewed. Data were examined in infants who had TST <4 hours and low AHI. RESULTS: Greater TST (p < 0.001) was noted among infants during nocturnal PSGs, at older chronological and post-menstrual ages, and without medical complexity. The presence of nasogastric/impedance probes reduced TST (p = 0.002). Elevated AHIs were identified even in PSGs with TST <4 hours. Short TST may have affected interpretation and delayed initial management in one infant without any inadvertent complications. CONCLUSION: Clinical factors such as PMA and medical complexity, and potentially modifiable factors such as time of day and location of study appeared to affect TST during infant PSGs. TST < 4 hours can be sufficient to identify high AHI allowing physician interpretation. KEY POINTS: · Less than 4 hours of TST is enough for interpretation of infant polysomnography.. · Shorter TST appears related to infant age, medical complexity, and higher apnea-hypopnea index.. · Modifiable factors seen with higher TST were time of day, environment, and presence of nasal tubes..

Characterization of Esophageal and Sphincter Reflexes across Maturation in Dysphagic Infants with Oral Feeding Success vs Infants requiring Gastrostomy.

To test the hypothesis that esophageal and sphincteric sensory-motor reflexes are distinct across maturation in infants with dysphagia receiving gastrostomy-tube (G-tube). This is a retrospective review of 29 dysphagic infants (N = 15 study requiring gastrostomy, N = 14 age matched control achieving oral feeds) that underwent longitudinal pharyngeal-esophageal manometry at 42.3 (37-50.2) weeks postmenstrual age (PMA) and 48.9 (43.3-57.9) weeks PMA. Graded stimuli (0.1-5 mL) of varying media (air, water, and apple juice) tested esophageal peristaltic reflex, upper esophageal sphincter contractile reflex (UESCR), and lower esophageal sphincter relaxation reflex (LESRR). Comparisons were performed between study and controls and across maturation (time-1 vs time-2). Data represented as mean ± SE or OR (95% CI). Across maturation (time-1 vs time-2): Study infants did not exhibit significant differences across in peristaltic, UES, or LES reflexes (all p > 0.05). In contrast, controls exhibited increased UES resting pressure (13 ± 3 vs 17 ± 3 mmHg, p = 0.001), LES resting pressure (22 ± 3 vs 25 ± 3 mmHg, p < 0.009), LES nadir pressure (0.5 ± 1 vs 4.3 ± 1 mmHg, p = 0.001), and esophago-deglutition responses [2.5 (1.23-4.88), p = 0.04], and decreased secondary peristalsis [0.44 (0.31-0.61), p = 0.001], UESCR [0.4 (0.25-0.65), p = 0.001], LESRR [0.4 (0.24-0.75), p = 0.01], and symptoms [0.6 (0.45-0.83), p = 0.005]. Among infants with dysphagia, esophageal provocation induced peristaltic reflex, UESCR, and LESRR advance with longitudinal maturation when infants are oral-fed successfully, but not in those who received gastrostomy. Underlying mechanisms may be related to esophageal sensitivity, afferent or efferent transmission, and coordination of upstream excitation and downstream inhibition, which can be potential therapeutic targets for improving feeding capabilities after gastrostomy placement in infants with dysphagia.

Pharyngoesophageal motility reflex mechanisms in the human neonate: importance of integrative cross-systems physiology.

Swallowing is a critical function for survival and development in human neonates and requires cross-system coordination between neurological, airway, and digestive motility systems. Development of pharyngoesophageal motility is influenced by intra- and extrauterine development, pregnancy complications, and neonatal comorbidities. The primary role of these motility reflex mechanisms is to maintain aerodigestive homeostasis under basal and adaptive biological conditions including oral feeding, gastroesophageal reflux, and sleep. Failure may result in feeding difficulties, airway compromise, dysphagia, aspiration syndromes, and chronic eating difficulties requiring prolonged tube feeding. We review the integration of cross-systems physiology to describe the basis for physiological and pathophysiological neonatal aerodigestive functions.

Differentiating esophageal sensitivity phenotypes using pH-impedance in intensive care unit infants referred for gastroesophageal reflux symptoms.

BACKGROUND: To identify esophageal sensitivity phenotypes relative to acid (SAcid), bolus (SBolus), acid and bolus (SAcid+Bolus), and none (SNone) exposures in infants suspected with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). METHODS: Symptomatic infants (N = 279) were evaluated for GERD at 42 (40-45) weeks postmenstrual age using 24-h pH-impedance. Symptom-associated probability (SAP) for acid and bolus components defined esophageal sensitivity: (1) SAcid as SAP ≥ 95% for acid (pH < 4), (2) SBolus as SAP ≥ 95% for bolus, (3) SAcid+Bolus as SAP ≥ 95% for acid and bolus, or (4) SNone as SAP < 95% for acid and bolus. RESULTS: Esophageal sensitivity prevalence (SAcid, SBolus, SAcid+Bolus, SNone) was 28 (10%), 94 (34%), 65 (23%), and 92 (33%), respectively. Emesis occurred more in SBolus and SAcid+Bolus vs SNone (p < 0.05). Magnitude (#/day) of cough and emesis events increased with SBolus and SAcid+Bolus vs SNone (p < 0.05). SAcid+Bolus had increased acid exposure vs SNone (p < 0.05). Distributions of feeding and breathing methods were distinct in infants with SBolus vs SNone (both, p < 0.05). Multivariate analysis revealed that arching and irritability events/day were lesser at higher PMAs (p < 0.001) and greater for infants on NCPAP (p < 0.01) with SBolus and SAcid+Bolus (p < 0.05). Coughs/day was greater at higher PMAs (p < 0.001) for infants with gavage and transitional feeding methods (p < 0.02) with SBolus and SAcid+Bolus (p < 0.05) but lesser with Trach (p < 0.001). Number of emesis events/day were greater with SBolus and SAcid+Bolus (p < 0.001). Sneezes/day decreased for infants on Trach (p = 0.02). CONCLUSIONS: Feeding and breathing methods can influence the frequency and type of aerodigestive symptoms. We differentiated esophageal sensitivity phenotypes in NICU infants referred for GERD symptoms using pH-impedance. Acid sensitivity alone was rare, which may explain poor response to acid suppressives; aerodigestive symptoms were predominantly linked with bolus spread. Magnitude of esophageal acid exposure and esophageal sensitivity to bolus spread may explain the pathophysiological basis for symptoms. IMPACT: Objective GERD diagnosis and reasons for symptoms in NICU infants remains unclear. Differentiation of esophageal sensitivities by acid and bolus components of GER reveal distinct symptom profiles, specifically the bolus component of GER significantly contributes to symptom occurrence. Acid only sensitivity to GER is rare, and acid-suppressive therapy alone may not improve symptoms in a majority of NICU infants. Magnitude of esophageal acid exposure and esophageal sensitivity to any bolus spread may explain the pathophysiological basis for symptoms. Feeding and breathing methods can influence the frequency and type of aerodigestive symptoms. GERD treatments should be individualized to the patient's GERD phenotype and likely also target the bolus component of GER.

Role of feeding strategy bundle with acid-suppressive therapy in infants with esophageal acid reflux exposure: a randomized controlled trial.

OBJECTIVE: To test the hypothesis that a feeding bundle concurrent with acid suppression is superior to acid suppression alone in improving gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) attributed-symptom scores and feeding outcomes in neonatal ICU infants. METHODS: Infants (N = 76) between 34 and 60 weeks' postmenstrual age with acid reflux index > 3% were randomly allocated to study (acid-suppressive therapy + feeding bundle) or conventional (acid-suppressive therapy only) arms for 4 weeks. Feeding bundle included: total fluid volume < 140 mL/kg/day, fed over 30 min in right lateral position, and supine postprandial position. Primary outcome was independent oral feeding and/or ≥6-point decrease in symptom score (I-GERQ-R). Secondary outcomes included growth (weight, length, head circumference), length of hospital stay (LOHS, days), airway (oxygen at discharge), and developmental (Bayley scores) milestones. RESULTS: Of 688 screened: 76 infants were randomized and used for the primary outcome as intent-to-treat, and secondary outcomes analyzed for 72 infants (N = 35 conventional, N = 37 study). For study vs. conventional groups, respectively: (a) 33% (95% CI, 19-49%) vs. 44% (95% CI, 28-62%), P = 0.28 achieved primary outcome success, and (b) secondary outcomes did not significantly differ (P > 0.05). CONCLUSIONS: Feeding strategy modifications concurrent with acid suppression are not superior to PPI alone in improving GERD symptoms or discharge feeding, short-term and long-term outcomes. IMPACT: Conservative feeding therapies are thought to modify GERD symptoms and its consequences. However, in this randomized controlled trial in convalescing neonatal ICU infants with GERD symptoms, when controlling for preterm or full-term birth and severity of esophageal acid reflux index, the effectiveness of acid suppression plus a feeding modification bundle (volume restriction, intra- and postprandial body positions, and prolonged feeding periods) vs. acid suppression alone, administered over a 4-week period was not superior in improving symptom scores or feeding outcomes. Restrictive feeding strategies are of no impact in modifying GERD symptoms or clinically meaningful outcomes. Further studies are needed to define true GERD and to identify effective therapies in modifying pathophysiology and outcomes. The improvement in symptoms and feeding outcomes over time irrespective of feeding modifications may suggest a maturational effect. This study justifies the use of placebo-controlled randomized clinical trial among NICU infants with objectively defined GERD.

Anemia of Prematurity and Oral Feeding Milestones in Premature Infants.

OBJECTIVE: Anemia of prematurity (AOP) and oral feeding problems are common in premature infants. This study aimed to determine the influence of AOP on aerodigestive outcomes and the duration to full Per Oral (PO). STUDY DESIGN: Prospectively collected data on premature infants who initiated oral feeds at ≤ 34 weeks' postmenstrual age were examined. Infants were categorized into "AOP+" and "AOP-" based on hematocrit at initial PO, that is, < 29 or ≥ 29%. RESULTS: Forty-four infants in AOP+ compared with 74 in AOP-. AOP+ infants had lower birth gestation and weight (p < 0.001). The anthropometrics at initial PO were similar. AOP+ had lower mean hematocrit and higher oxygen need at initial PO, and at full PO (p < 0.05). AOP+ reached full PO at a later gestation and took longer days from initial PO to full PO (p < 0.01). BPD, intraventricular hemorrhage (IVH ≤ 2), and hospital stay were greater in the AOP+ (p < 0.05). After adjusting for covariates, initial PO hematocrit was not predictive of time to full PO [hazard ratio 1.3 (CI 0.88-2.0), p = 0.18]. CONCLUSION: AOP is not independently associated with the duration to full PO. Supplemental oxygen for associated comorbidities may have compensated for the underlying anemia.

Dysphagia Care Across the Continuum: A Multidisciplinary Dysphagia Research Society Taskforce Report of Service-Delivery During the COVID-19 Global Pandemic.

At the time of writing this paper, there are over 11 million reported cases of COVID-19 worldwide. Health professionals involved in dysphagia care are impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic in their day-to-day practices. Otolaryngologists, gastroenterologists, rehabilitation specialists, and speech-language pathologists are subject to virus exposure due to their proximity to the aerodigestive tract and reliance on aerosol-generating procedures in swallow assessments and interventions. Across the globe, professional societies and specialty associations are issuing recommendations about which procedures to use, when to use them, and how to reduce the risk of COVID-19 transmission during their use. Balancing safety for self, patients, and the public while maintaining adequate evidence-based dysphagia practices has become a significant challenge. This paper provides current evidence on COVID-19 transmission during commonly used dysphagia practices and provides recommendations for protection while conducting these procedures. The paper summarizes current understanding of dysphagia in patients with COVID-19 and draws on evidence for dysphagia interventions that can be provided without in-person consults and close proximity procedures including dysphagia screening and telehealth.

Novel Use of Impedance Technology Shows That Esophageal Air Events Can Be Temporally Associated With Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease-like Symptoms.

A few studies have shown that esophageal air events (EAEs), such as air-swallows, may be associated with symptoms that have historically been associated with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). To objectively test a hypothesis that all EAE types (air-swallows, supragastric belches and gastric belches) can be associated with GERD-like symptoms, we removed the impedance "tags" from the GER episodes (placed during autoscan) and instead tagged either air-swallows, supragastric belches or gastric belches in each of 3 copies of the 24-hour impedance tracing for 2 infant patients who presented with symptoms suggestive of GER as an etiology. Impedance system software (MMS) analyses revealed that, in both infants, all EAE types were significantly associated (SAP >95%) with 1 or more of the GERD-like symptom types (cough, pain/crying, back-arching, and gagging). These data underscore the importance of considering other diagnoses when developing management strategies for treating GERD-like symptoms in infants.

Secretion Management in Tracheostomized Infants using Unconventional Approaches and Outcomes: A Case Series.

OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to increase the understanding of secretion management in infants with tracheostomies. In this case series, we describe objective evidence for an unconventional approach in infants refractory to conventional management techniques. STUDY DESIGN: Case study of two NICU infants utilizing high-resolution manometry was undertaken using personalized oral stimulation protocols with fruity foods. RESULTS: Oral stimulation improved infant swallowing to clear secretions and reduce the need for suctioning. CONCLUSION: Innovative oral stimulation protocols are needed to improve swallowing in high-risk infants.

Pharyngoesophageal and cardiorespiratory interactions: potential implications for premature infants at risk of clinically significant cardiorespiratory events.

The aims of this study were to 1) examine pharyngoesophageal and cardiorespiratory responses to provoking pharyngeal stimuli, and 2) to determine potential contributory factors impacting heart rate (HR) changes to provide insight into cardiorespiratory events occurring in preterm infants. Forty-eight neonates (19 females and 29 males, born at 27.7 ± 0.5 wk; mean ± SE) pending discharge on full oral feeds were studied at 38.7 ± 0.2 wk postmenstrual age using concurrent pharyngoesophageal manometry, electrocardiography, respiratory inductance plethysmography, and nasal airflow thermistor. Pharyngoesophageal and cardiorespiratory responses (prevalence, latency, and duration) were quantified upon abrupt pharyngeal water stimuli (0.1, 0.3, and 0.5 ml in triplicate). Mixed linear models and generalized estimating equations were used for comparisons between HR changes. Contributory factors included stimulus characteristics and subject characteristics. Of 338 pharyngeal stimuli administered, HR increased in 23 (7%), decreased in 108 (32%), and remained stable in 207 (61%) neonates. HR decrease resulted in repetitive swallowing, increased respiratory-rhythm disturbance, and decreased esophageal propagation rates (all, P < 0.05). HR responses were related to stimulus volume, stimulus flow rate, and extreme prematurity (all, P < 0.05). In preterm infants, HR remains stable in a majority of pharyngeal provocations. HR decrease, due to pharyngeal stimulation, is related to aberrant pharyngoesophageal motility and respiratory dysregulation and is magnified by prematurity. We infer that the observed aberrant responses across digestive, respiratory, and cardiovascular systems are related to maladaptive maturation of the parasympathetic nervous system. These aberrant responses may provide diagnostic clues for risk stratification of infants with troublesome cardiorespiratory events and swallowing difficulty. NEW & NOTEWORTHY Cardiorespiratory rhythms concurrent with pharyngeal, upper esophageal sphincter, and esophageal body responses were examined upon pharyngeal provocation in preterm-born infants who were studied at full-term maturation. Decreased heart rate (HR) was associated with extreme preterm birth and stimulus flow/volume. With HR decrease responses, aerodigestive reflex abnormalities were present, characterized by prolonged respiratory rhythm disturbance, repetitive multiple swallowing, and poor esophageal propagation. Promoting esophageal peristalsis may be a potential therapeutic target.

Mechanisms of Aerodigestive Symptoms in Infants with Varying Acid Reflux Index Determined by Esophageal Manometry.

OBJECTIVE: To test whether symptom generation in infants is related to the severity of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) symptoms as determined by the Acid Reflux Index (ARI), stimulus media, and stimulus volume during provocative esophageal manometry. STUDY DESIGN: Symptomatic neonates (n = 74) born at a median of 28.9 weeks gestation (range, 23.4-39.4 weeks) were studied at a median of 41.0 weeks (range, 34.6-48.0 weeks) postmenstrual age using 24-hour pH-impedance methods to determine ARI severity, followed by provocative esophageal manometry with graded mid-esophageal infusions (0.1-5.0 mL) of air, water, and apple juice. Peristaltic reflexes and symptom characteristics were compared among ARI severity categories using linear mixed models and generalized estimating equations. RESULTS: The effects of 2635 separate esophageal stimuli on reflexes and symptoms were analyzed. Peristaltic reflexes occurred in 1880 infusions (71%), and physical, cardiorespiratory, sensory symptoms were seen in 439 infusions (17%). Symptom prevalence did not differ across the ARI severity categories (ARI <3, 18%; ARI 3-7, 17%; ARI >7, 16%; P = 1.0). Symptom and peristaltic responses increased with incremental stimulus volumes (all media, P < .001). CONCLUSIONS: Symptoms and peristaltic reflexes are manifestations of the recruitment of several neurosensory and neuromotor pathways evoked by mid-esophageal infusions. ARI severity grade plays no role in symptom generation, indicating that GERD should not be diagnosed and severity should not be assigned based on symptoms alone. An increase in symptom occurrence was noted with increasing stimulus volumes, which provided increased activation of receptors, afferents, and efferents in evoking peristaltic clearance reflexes.

Gastrostomy Tube Feeding in Extremely Low Birthweight Infants: Frequency, Associated Comorbidities, and Long-term Outcomes.

OBJECTIVE: To assess the frequency of gastrostomy tube (GT) placement in extremely low birth weight (ELBW) infants, associated comorbidities, and long-term outcomes. STUDY DESIGN: Analysis of ELBW infants from 25 centers enrolled in the National Institute of Child Health and Human Development Neonatal Research Network's Generic Database and Follow-up Registry from 2006 to 2012. Frequency of GT placement before 18-22 months, demographic and medical factors associated with GT placement, and associated long-term outcomes at 18-22 months of corrected age were described. Associations between GT placement and neonatal morbidities and long-term outcomes were assessed with logistic regression after adjustment for center and common co-variables. RESULTS: Of the 4549 ELBW infants included in these analyses, 333 (7.3%) underwent GT placement; 76% had the GT placed postdischarge. Of infants with GTs, 11% had birth weights small for gestational age, 77% had bronchopulmonary dysplasia, and 29% severe intraventricular hemorrhage or periventricular leukomalacia. At follow-up, 56% of infants with a GT had weight <10th percentile, 61% had neurodevelopmental impairment (NDI), and 55% had chronic breathing problems. After adjustment, small for gestational age, bronchopulmonary dysplasia, intraventricular hemorrhage/periventricular leukomalacia, poor growth, and NDI were associated with GT placement. Thirty-two percent of infants with GTs placed were taking full oral feeds at follow-up. CONCLUSIONS: GT placement is common in ELBW infants, particularly among those with severe neonatal morbidities. GT placement in this population was associated with poor growth, NDI, and chronic respiratory and feeding problems at follow-up. The frequency of GT placement postneonatal discharge indicates the need for close nutritional follow-up of ELBW infants. TRIAL REGISTRATION: ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT00063063.

Differentiation of esophageal pH-impedance characteristics classified by the mucosal integrity marker in human neonates.

BACKGROUND: In adults, distal baseline impedance (BI) is a determinant of esophageal mucosal integrity with values <900 Ω indicating inflammation. Relationships between acid gastroesophageal reflux (GER) and BI in neonates are unclear. METHODS: NICU infants (N = 198, 30.4 ± 0.3 weeks gestation) were evaluated at 43 ± 0.4 weeks postmenstrual age using 24-h pH-impedance. Ten randomly selected 1-min windows during rest from the distal impedance channel (Z6) were averaged. Chi-square, t-tests, and ANOVA were used to compare pH-impedance and symptom characteristics by BI severity (BI < 900 Ω, BI 900-2000 Ω, BI > 2000 Ω). Regression analysis was used to identify potential contributing factors of BI. RESULTS: In BI < 900 Ω: (1) pH-impedance characteristics were increased (acid reflux event frequency, duration, and severity, all P < 0.05 vs. BI > 2000 Ω), and (2) positive symptom correlations were noted with bolus (73%) and acid events (55%). Significant predictors of BI included chronological age, acid reflux index, and BPD diagnosis (all P < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS: Low BI is associated with prolonged acid exposure, delayed clearance, and greater aerodigestive symptom prevalence, likely associated with inflammation and or increased mucosal permeability. BI > 2000 Ω likely involves little or no inflammation because acid exposure is minimal. Combination of SAP, pH-impedance metrics, and BI along with the clarification of dysmotility mechanisms provides the rationale for personalized anti-reflux therapies as needed.

Pilot Study of Pharyngoesophageal Dysmotility Mechanisms in Dysphagic Infants of Diabetic Mothers.

OBJECTIVE: Swallowing difficulties are common in infants of diabetic mothers (IDM) and mechanisms are unclear. We tested the hypothesis that pharyngoesophageal motility reflexes are distinct in IDMs compared with healthy controls in a pilot study. STUDY DESIGN: Basal and adaptive pharyngoesophageal motility characteristics of 20 dysphagic IDMs and 10 controls were studied using purpose-built micromanometry system. RESULTS: During basal swallows, IDMs had lower frequency of deglutition apneas (62.5 vs. 95.4%) and longer active upper esophageal sphincter (UES) relaxation duration (0.8 ± 0.1 vs. 0.4 ± 0.1 second), whereas during adaptive swallows, IDMs had longer response latency to esophageal peristalsis onset (24.4 ± 2.1 vs. 9.7 ± 2.9 seconds) and longer lower esophageal sphincter nadir duration (28.9 ± 3.2 vs. 12.9 ± 4.6) (all p < 0.05) compared with controls. Nine in the IDM group needed gastrostomy feeding tube at hospital discharge versus none in controls. CONCLUSION: Feeding difficulties in IDMs are likely to be associated with maladapted or maldeveloped vagal neuropathy mechanisms manifesting as dysregulation of pharyngeal-airway interactions, longer active UES relaxation response, delays in the activation of esophageal contractile apparatus during peristalsis, and prolonged inhibition at the gastroesophageal junction.

The effect of body position on esophageal reflexes in cats: a possible mechanism of SIDS?

BackgroundIt has been hypothesized that life-threatening events are caused by supraesophageal reflux (SER) of gastric contents that activates laryngeal chemoreflex-stimulated apnea. Placing infants supine decreases the risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS). The aim of this study was to determine whether body position affects esophageal reflexes that control SER.MethodsWe instrumented the pharyngeal and esophageal muscles of decerebrate cats (N=14) to record EMG or manometry, and investigated the effects of body position on the esophago-upper esophageal sphincter (UES) contractile reflex (EUCR), esophago-UES relaxation reflex (EURR), esophagus-stimulated pharyngeal swallow response (EPSR), secondary peristalsis (SP), and pharyngeal swallow (PS). EPSR, EUCR, and SP were activated by balloon distension, EURR by air pulse, and PS by nasopharyngeal water injection. The esophagus was stimulated in the cervical, proximal thoracic, and distal thoracic regions. The threshold stimulus for activation of EUCR, EURR, and PS, and the chance of activation of EPSR and SP were quantified.ResultsWe found that only EPSR was significantly more sensitive in the supine vs. prone position regardless of the stimulus or the position of the stimulus in the esophagus.ConclusionWe hypothesize that the EPSR may contribute to the protection of infants from SIDS by placement in the supine position.

Defining pharyngeal contractile integral during high-resolution manometry in neonates: a neuromotor marker of pharyngeal vigor.

BACKGROUND: Pharyngeal contractility is critical for safe bolus propulsion. Pharyngeal contractile vigor can be measured by Pharyngeal Contractile Integral (PhCI): product of mean pharyngeal contractile amplitude, length, and duration. We characterized PhCI in neonates and examined the hypothesis that PhCI differs with mode of stimulation. METHODS: Nineteen neonates born at 38.6 (34-41) weeks gestation were evaluated at 42.9 (40.4-44.0) weeks postmenstrual age using high-resolution manometry (HRM). PhCI was calculated using: (a) Conventional and (b) Automated Swallow Detection algorithm (ASDA) methods. Contractility metrics of all pharyngeal regions were examined using mixed statistical models during spontaneous and adaptive state (pharyngeal and oral stimulus) swallowing. RESULTS: PhCI of oral stimuli swallows were distinct from pharyngeal stimuli and spontaneous swallows (P < 0.05). Correlation between conventional and ASDA methods was high (P < 0.001). PhCI increased with swallows for pharyngeal stimulation (P < 0.05) but remained stable for swallows with oral stimulation. PhCI differed between proximal and distal pharynx (P < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS: PhCI is a novel reliable metric capable of distinguishing (1) proximal and distal pharyngeal activity, (2) effects of oral and pharyngeal stimulation, and (3) effects of prolonged stimulation. Changes in pharyngeal contractility with maturation, disease, and therapies can be examined with PhCI.