Swallowing problems in children with a tracheostomy tube

Introduction: Swallowing problems in children with a tracheostomy tube seem to be a common problem, although exact prevalence is not known. The aim of this study is to identify the prevalence and type of swallowing problems in children with a tracheostomy tube. Methods: We retrospectively included 44 children having a tracheostomy tube at Erasmus MC-Sophia Children's hospital. Assessment by a specialized speech and language therapist, the Modified Evans Blue Dye test, Video Fluoroscopic Swallowing Study and a Fiber-optic Endoscopic Evaluation of Swallowing were reviewed with regard to the different phases of swallowing, in particular signs of aspiration. Results: In our cohort, 31 (70%) children with a tracheostomy tube presented with problems in the oral and/or the pharyngeal phase of swallowing. Overall 19 (43%) children aspirated. Conclusions: The majority of children with a tracheostomy tube have swallowing problems in the different swallowing phases with a high risk for aspiration.