Orofacial functions in experimental models of cerebral palsy: A systematic review

Abstract

Background

Children who suffer from cerebral palsy (CP) often present comorbidities in the form of orofacial dysfunctions. Studies in animals have contributed to elaborate potential therapies aimed at minimizing the chronic disability of the syndrome.

Objective

To systematically review the scientific literature regarding the possible effects that experimental models of CP can have on orofacial functions.

Methods

Two independent authors conducted a systematic review in the electronic databases Medline, Scopus, CINAHL, Web of Science and Lilacs, using Mesh and Decs terms in animal models. The motor and sensory parameters of sucking, chewing and swallowing were considered as primary outcomes; reactivity odor, controlled salivation, postural control, head mobility during feeding, and the animal's ability to acquire food were secondary outcomes.

Results

Ten studies were included in the present review. Most studies used rabbits as experimental models of CP, which was induced by either hypoxia-ischemia, inflammation or intraventricular hemorrhage. Orofacial functions were altered in all experimental models of CP. However, we found more modifications in hypoxia-ischemia models overall. On the other hand, the model of inflammation was more effective to reproduce higher damage for coordinating sucking and swallowing.

Conclusion

All of the CP experimental models that were assessed modified the oral functions in different animal species. However, further studies should be conducted in order to clarify the mechanisms underlying orofacial damage in order to optimize treatment strategies for children who suffer from CP.

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