Anatomy, Physiology, and Development of Feeding

Authors:
  • MLMaureen A. Lefton-Greif
    Maureen A. Lefton-Greif

Abstract
Dysphagia in infants and children is usually only one part of a broad spectrum of complex medical, health, and developmental problems. As etiologies vary, so do prognoses. Increased survival rates of infants in recent years have been accompanied by an increased prevalence of neurologic, cardiorespiratory, and structural impairments that can affect nutritional status and feeding function. Knowledge of anatomy, physiology, and normal development of feeding skills is basic to the assessment and management of pediatric dysphagia.