I got a request for help from lactation consultant and pediatrician from Moscow, Russia. Mother gave a permission to post. They are unable to find any information in Russian and cannot get help anywhere. I do not have any experience working with babies with this condition. 
This baby is 7 month old and was born with hydrocephalus (diagnosed with Arnold–Chiari malformation).  It is 3 rd baby for this mother and she breastfed him for 6 months. He had a surgery done where the shunt was placed. After this surgery he lost sucking and swalowing reflexes as well as gagging reflex. He has a tracheostomy and a feeding tube. He is biting his fingers but cannot even swallow saliva. He doesn't suck on pacifier either.
Mother is expressing milk and is wondering if she can get baby back to breastfeed or even if it is possible for him to get back the reflexes. If anyone has any tips or suggestions, she would really appreciate them. I will translate into Russian for her. 

Thanks,

Maya Bolman RN, IBCLC

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