Difficulty with recruiting patients; poor quality of EMG

The purpose of this study is to evaluate if the use of Neuromuscular Electrical Stimulation (NMES) will provide a more efficient method of treating neonates with dysfunctional oral feeding such as dysphagia. This study will attempt to determine if NMES applied to neonates at 36-42 weeks post-conception age (PCA) will decrease the need for nasogastric tubes (NG) and gastrostomy tubes (G-TUBE). Increase the rate at which these neonates complete full oral feeds, improve their swallowing skills, increase oral intake of calories, and gain weight.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Male or female.
• Meet diagnostic criteria for dysphagia symptoms using the NOMAS and a VFSS.
• Infants with intraventricular hemorrhage (IVH) and hypoxic events can be included.
• Infants taking less than 5-10% of target volume by mouth between the ages of 36-42 weeks PCA.
• Multiple swallows to clear bolus following suck that includes a desaturation <80% and bradycardia <80 bpm.
• Apnea spells during feeds.
• Aspiration or penetration by VFSS

Exclusion Criteria:

• Known neurologic or neurodegenerative disorders.
• Chromosomal anomalies and syndromes.
• Cleft lip or palate.
• Birth defects.
• Unresolved cutaneous rash at the area of electrode placement.
• Medical condition that is a contraindication to NMES.