Videomanometry reveals clinically relevant parameters of swallowing in children.
OBJECTIVE
The aim of this pilot study is to demonstrate the technical and clinical feasibility of videomanometry to assess swallowing in infants and young children presenting with dysphagia.


METHODS
We performed videomanometry using a combined solid state catheter and a perfused manometric sleeve assembly in eight patients (2-28 months) presenting at a tertiary care institution with symptoms of dysphagia. Solid state sensors were positioned at the inferior margin of the valleculae and the laryngeal entrance and the upper esophageal sphincter sleeve assembly was positioned across the upper esophageal sphincter. Manometric and radiological data were digitally recorded simultaneously using a manofluoromixer. Liquid bolus swallows were recorded in each patient and different geometric parameters of deglutition were measured.


RESULTS
Placement and fixation of the catheter was well tolerated and no adverse effects occurred. The children easily swallowed test boluses as selected during clinical examination. Results indicate that pharyngeal contractility can be evaluated as well as relaxation of the upper esophageal sphincter during swallowing of wet boluses.


CONCLUSIONS
Videomanometry in young children is feasible with the limited discomfort of the placement of the catheter. It is a promising technique that will allow more accurate assessment of pediatric oropharyngeal dysphagia.
Rommel
N
N
University of Leuven, Department of Neurosciences, Exp ORL, Faculty of Medicine, Herestraat 49, P.O. Box 721, 3000 Leuven, Belgium. nathalie.rommel@med.kuleuven.be
Dejaeger
E
E
Bellon
E
E
Smet
M
M
Veereman-Wauters
G
G
D002675:Child, Preschool; D003287:Contrast Media; D003680:Deglutition Disorders / Q000175:diagnosis*; D004947:Esophagus / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging; D005240:Feasibility Studies; D006801:Humans; D007091:Image Processing, Computer-Assisted; D007223:Infant; D008365:Manometry; D010865:Pilot Projects; D011859:Radiography; D014741:Video Recording
D003287:Contrast Media