Pediatric dysphagia is a clinical problem that crosses disciplines. Children may be seen by numerous medical specialties including pediatric otolaryngology, gastroenterology, pulmonology, speech pathology, occupational therapy, and lactation consultants. The myriad approaches to the diagnosis and management of dysphagia is confusing for both clinicians and families; resulting in recurrent trips to medical professionals.

Feeding is integral to socialization and to bonding between infants and parents. Disruptions in feeding development can be extremely taxing emotionally and economically for families. Children with dysphagia are some of the most challenging patients even for clinicians who specialize in their care.

This text provides the reader with a comprehensive understanding of swallowing and presents a practical, evidence-based approach to the diagnosis and management of swallowing difficulties in children. It also highlights particular clinical challenges and controversies in the management of pediatric dysphagia. It is unique in that it incorporates the perspectives of multiple types of clinicians that care for these patients including otolaryngologists, gastroenterologists, pulmonologists, speech pathologists, occupational therapists and lactation consultants. In doing so, this text will encourage cross-specialty pollination of ideas and knowledge as well as stimulate further research in the field.

Part 1 of the text begins with an overview of the anatomy and physiology of swallowing with a focus on normal development as we currently understand it. It also discusses new information regarding reflexive interactions between the larynx and esophagus that potentially influence swallowing.

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