Outcome of intensive oral motor and behavioural interventions for feeding difficulties in three children with Goldenhar Syndrome

Abstract

The facial anomalies and surgeries associated with Goldenhar Syndrome often lead to feeding problems. The purpose of this study was to demonstrate the outcome of Goldenhar Syndrome children admitted to the day patient paediatric feeding programme. Three children with Goldenhar Syndrome and feeding difficulties participated, mean age 3 years. Average length of stay was 8 weeks. Upon admission all were dependent on tube feedings. The children received four therapeutic sessions daily. The sessions included oral motor interventions, behavioural techniques and a structured meal. Data regarding children's feeding were collected at admission and discharge. The patients had 52% acceptance of food/drink at admission and 88.7% at discharge. Expels were 30% at admission and 14% at discharge. Mouth clean was 9.3% at admission and 97% at discharge. Total inappropriate feeding behaviours averaged 83% at admission and 27.3% at discharge. Children averaged 3.4 g per meal at admission and 105.4 g at discharge. Two children were completely weaned from tube feedings by discharge. Results support the hypothesis that combining oral motor and behavioural interventions offer effective treatment for children with Goldenhar Syndrome. Many children with Goldenhar Syndrome are reliant on tube feedings and this regimen allows them to eat orally, thereby improving their nutrition and quality of life.