DOZ047.07: Parental feeding concerns of infants and children with esophageal atresia

Abstract

Abstract Background Feeding problems have been described in children with esophageal atresia (EA). This can cause high levels of parental/caregiver concern. Aims The primary aim of this study was to determine specific feeding concerns of parents/caregivers of infants and young children with EA, including introducing solids and grading up to family foods. Methods A questionnaire was developed for parents/caregivers of infants/children with EA, aged 12 months to 6 years. Questionnaires were completed by 20 parents of infants/children attending a multidisciplinary EA clinic between June 2016 and June 2017. All children had type C EA. Demographics, feeding history, and parental concerns around feeding were assessed. The Montreal Children's Hospital Feeding Scale was also completed by parents. Results Eleven (55%) parents agree/strongly agree that they were concerned about their child's feeding prior to the introduction of solids and about moving from a smooth puree to more textured solids. The most common concerns were choking and food impaction for both time points. Twelve (60%) parents agree/strongly agree that the majority of mealtimes in their child's first 1–2 years of life were stressful. Thirteen (65%) parents reported avoiding particular foods due to their child's EA. The majority of children (n = 17) had no feeding difficulty according to an objective scale, with the rest minor. Conclusions This study highlights that parental concern around feeding still exists in infants and children without a severe feeding difficulty and needs to be addressed. Multidisciplinary involvement including a dietitian and speech pathologist from an early age is important for infants and children with EA. Further education provided to parents/caregivers may assist with reduced stress around feeding and create more positive mealtime behaviours.