Head circumference and chronic positive pressure ventilation in children: a pilot study

Association of rapid head growth in children following tracheostomy tube placement

INTRODUCTION

Our clinical observation indicates that some children who have a tracheostomy may experience increasing head circumference as they grow and develop. Accurate assessment and interpretation of growth parameters is an essential component of following child development. Appreciation for variations in growth is especially important in special populations, such as children with a tracheostomy. The aim of this study is to define head growth in children with a tracheostomy.

METHOD

This retrospective cohort study includes children who underwent tracheostomy tube placement prior to 2 years of age in a respiratory rehabilitation unit within a children's hospital. Serial head circumference measurements were plotted against age on growth charts adjusted for gestational age. The percentage of patients with accelerated head growth, defined as increased head circumference across two major percentiles within 6 months following tracheostomy, was determined.

RESULTS

Fifty-seven percent (20 out of 35 children) demonstrated increased head circumference across two major percentiles within 6 months following tracheostomy.

DISCUSSION

Accelerated head growth is associated with the presence of a tracheostomy tube in children in this study. Further investigation is warranted to establish the relationship of head circumference to other growth parameters. In addition, the etiology of this phenomenon requires additional study. Understanding head growth in children with a tracheostomy will promote adequate growth assessment and may lead to improved patient care.