Investigating how thickened feeds affect swallowing in infants with unexplained choking events

Effect of Thickened Feeds on Swallow Physiology and Clinical Outcomes in Children with Brief Resolved Unexplained Event

NIH-funded research Boston Children's Hospital · NIH-11060959

This study is looking at how thicker foods might help babies who have scary episodes like choking or turning blue, to see if it can make it easier for them to swallow and keep them safe.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionBoston Children's Hospital NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Boston, United States)
Project IDNIH-11060959 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on infants who experience brief resolved unexplained events (BRUE), which can include frightening symptoms like choking and cyanosis. The study aims to understand how thickened feeds may improve swallowing function and reduce the risk of aspiration in these infants. By systematically examining the relationship between oropharyngeal dysphagia and BRUE, the research seeks to identify effective interventions that could enhance clinical outcomes and quality of life for affected children. The principal investigator, Dr. Daniel Duncan, is dedicated to developing evidence-based treatments for this vulnerable population.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are infants aged 0-11 years who have experienced brief resolved unexplained events and may have swallowing difficulties.

Not a fit: Patients who do not have BRUE or related swallowing issues may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved swallowing interventions that significantly reduce the morbidity associated with BRUE in infants.

How similar studies have performed: While there is limited research specifically on thickened feeds for BRUE, similar approaches in managing swallowing disorders in infants have shown promise.

Where this research is happening

Boston, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.