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taVNS in Infants Severe Dysphagia
Novel Pairing of taVNS and an Oral Sensorimotor Protocol in Infants With Severe Dysphagia
Who can join
6 Months · All sexes
Full eligibility criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Infants ≥37 weeks post-menstrual age * Diagnosed with dysphagia and significant sucking/swallowing impairment * Limited oral feeding ability * Admitted to NICU Exclusion Criteria: * Cardiomyopathy * Unstable bradycardia * Significant respiratory support requirement * Absence of gag reflex * Inability to manage secretions * Infants of poorly controlled diabetic mothers
About the study
This study evaluates the safety, feasibility, and preliminary effects of transcutaneous auricular vagus nerve stimulation (taVNS) paired with an oral sensorimotor training protocol in infants with severe dysphagia. Infants with significant sucking and swallowing impairment will receive twice-daily taVNS paired with oromotor training over a three-week period. Outcomes include swallowing mechanics, sucking proficiency, and functional feeding performance assessed before and after the intervention.
What is being tested
- Transcutaneous Auricular Vagus Nerve Stimulation (taVNS) (device)
- Oral Sensorimotor Training Protocol (behavioral)
Sponsor: Medical University of South Carolina · Participants: 12 · Started: Oct 19, 2026
Contact the study team
- Heather C McGhee, PhD · Phone: 7708834902
- Doe Jenkins, MD · Phone: 8433642662
Official record on ClinicalTrials.gov — NCT07802301
Locations in the U.S.
| South Carolina | Shawn Jenkins Children's Hospital, Charleston |
Conditions
From ClinicalTrials.gov, data retrieved Nov 15, 2026. Each study sets its own eligibility; the study team decides who can join.