Effects of Non-Oral Feeding on Infant Tongue Muscle Mass and Force

Safe and efficient feeding is a critical milestone for infants in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (Pickler, 2004). Full oral feedings is a particular challenge for premature infants as they have been reported to demonstrate abnormal tongue movement patterns in the first few days oflife (Bu'Lock, Woolridge, & Baum, 1990). The transition from gavage to full oral feeds has a direct impact on financial costs as discharge can be delayed when infants demonstrate inability to wean from tube feeding (Lau & Schanler, 2000; Vandenberg, 1990). As many as forty percent of premature infants exhibit both immature and atypical feeding patterns and those requiring prolonged respiratory support and those experiencing delayed oral feeding are most often affected (Hawdon, Beauregard, Slattery, & Kennedy, 2000). However, empirical evidence relative to assessment of infant feeding and swallowing difficulties is limited (Bell & Alper, 2007). Consequently, in order to develop efficacious intervention, a stronger scientific base is needed to fully understand the various factors that contribute to infant feeding and swallowing problems.