Efficacy of enhanced dysphagia assessment and dietary intervention in post-stroke dysphagia patients: a randomized controlled study.

Abstract

Objective: This study evaluated the effectiveness of an enhanced dysphagia assessment method combined with dietary interventions for patients experiencing dysphagia post-stroke.

Methods: A prospective randomized controlled trial was conducted with 98 hospitalized post-stroke patients suffering from dysphagia. Participants were randomly assigned into two groups: the study group (receiving enhanced dysphagia assessment and dietary interventions) and the control group (receiving standard nursing care), using a computer-generated randomization list. Swallowing function was assessed using the Mann Assessment of Swallowing Ability (mMASA), Dysphagia Severity Scale (DSS), and Wada's water swallowing test. Additionally, quality of life and nutritional status were evaluated for both groups, before and after the intervention.

Results: Post-intervention, the study group exhibited significantly better scores on mMASA and Wada's water swallowing test, and lower DSS scores compared to the control group (all P < 0.05). Initially, no significant differences were observed between the groups concerning aspiration symptoms, nutritional and respiratory dysfunction, psychological disorders, and total scores (all P > 0.05). However, post-intervention, the study group showed significant improvements in these parameters and lower scores compared to the control group (all P < 0.05). Additionally, the study group demonstrated higher BMI, albumin (ALB), and hemoglobin (Hb) levels post-intervention (all P < 0.05), and a markedly lower incidence of aspiration and aspiration pneumonia (all P < 0.05).

Conclusion: Enhanced dysphagia assessment combined with dietary interventions significantly improves swallowing function, quality of life, and nutritional status in post-stroke dysphagia patients. This approach also reduces the incidence of related complications, suggesting substantial clinical benefits.