Post Stroke Dysphagia: Effect of Adding Brain Neuromodulation to Conventional Therapy on the Prevalence of Stroke Associated Pneumonia.
BACKGROUND: Dysphagia is one of the most life-threatening stroke complications. Dysphagic stroke patients are at increased risk of aspiration pneumonia. Pneumonia accounts for at least 10% of post stroke deaths within 30 days of hospitalization after stroke. rTMS is effective in improving post-stroke dysphagia and swallowing coordination after stimulation of the unaffected hemisphere, however it's efficacy on the prevalence of pneumonia has not yet been examined. Purpose of the study: To determine the effect of adding low frequency repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation to conventional oropharyngeal physical therapy program on the prevalence of aspiration pneumonia in in patients with post stroke dysphagia.
• All the patients were diagnosed of stroke oropharyngeal dysphagia by a neurologist. Sever to moderate dysphagia (GUSS 0-14).
• Severity of stroke ranged from mild to moderate according to NIHSS score (NIHSS less than or equal 16).
• Patients' age ranged from 49 to 65 years old.
• Patients had the ability to understand and follow instructions.
• Patients were able to sit in upright position.