54: Pulmonary Complications of Neuromuscular Disorders

Neuromuscular disorders (NMDs) may be associated with a gradual loss of muscle function over time, and children with these disorders are at risk of developing clinically significant respiratory morbidity from recurrent respiratory infections and chronic respiratory insufficiency.^1,2,3,4  However, other groups of nonprogressive NMDs, such as cerebral palsy or static encephalopathy, may lead to the development of pulmonary complications requiring aggressive airway clearance, assisted ventilation, or secretion management. The approach for the evaluation and management described in this chapter is also applicable to such disorders. Knowledge of the expected course of the NMD is...