Pediatric tracheotomy referrals to speech-language pathology in a children's hospital.
The pattern of referral of infants and children with tracheotomy to speech-language pathology (SLP) was studied through a retrospective review. Less than half (29/62) were referred to SLP with no difference by surgical service (otolaryngology vs pediatric surgery) or length of time with tracheotomy. Younger children were referred far less frequently than older children. Furthermore, more than half of all children referred to SLP showed moderate to severe communication deficits. Central nervous system abnormalities were documented in 66% of the subjects. In the majority tracheotomies were in place longer than 12 months. On the basis of the findings, a protocol was established for early routine involvement of SLP with infants and children with tracheotomy.
Arvedson
J C
JC
Department of Speech-Language-Hearing, Children's Hospital of Buffalo, NY 14222.
Brodsky
L
L
D000293:Adolescent; D002648:Child; D002675:Child, Preschool; D002985:Clinical Protocols; D006776:Hospitals, Pediatric; D006801:Humans; D007223:Infant; D007231:Infant, Newborn; D007806:Language Disorders / Q000209:etiology / Q000628:therapy; D011184:Postoperative Period; D012017:Referral and Consultation / Q000706:statistics & numerical data*; D012189:Retrospective Studies; D013064:Speech Disorders / Q000209:etiology; D013066:Speech-Language Pathology; D014140:Tracheotomy / Q000009:adverse effects