Predictors of feeding management changes following supraglottoplasty in infants.

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate factors associated with inpatient swallowing management changes following supraglottoplasty in infants and to assess postoperative swallowing trajectories using IDDSI levels.

DESIGN

Retrospective cohort study.

SETTING

Single tertiary pediatric center.

PARTICIPANTS

Infants (<12 months) undergoing supraglottoplasty between 2017 and 2024.

EXPOSURES: Neuro/syndromic diagnosis, prematurity, airway findings, and perioperative factors.

MAIN OUTCOMES AND MEASURES: Primary outcome was SLP-recommended change in feeding/swallowing management (e.g., IDDSI level modification, thickening, pacing, or NPO status). Secondary outcomes included IDDSI level transitions over time.

RESULTS

Of 132 patients, 68 (52%) received inpatient SLP evaluation; 15/68 (22%) required feeding plan modification. Neuro/syndromic diagnosis was associated with increased odds of inpatient feeding modification (OR 5.94, 95% CI 1.38-25.33; p = 0.039). Most patients demonstrated stable or improved IDDSI levels over time.

CONCLUSIONS

Inpatient SLP evaluation frequently alters feeding management in high-risk infants following supraglottoplasty. These findings support a risk-stratified rather than universal consultation strategy.