Dysphagia and pulmonary complications in acute cerebrovascular disease: A retrospective observational study

Introduction

Dysphagia is a common post-stroke complication, which may result in serious pulmonary sequelae. Early detection of dysphagia and aspiration risk can reduce morbidity, mortality and length of hospitalization.

Objectives

This study aims to identify association between dysphagia and acute cerebrovascular disease, and evaluate the prevalence and impact of pulmonary complications on readmissions and mortality.

Material and methods

Retrospective observational study based on 250 clinical records of patients with acute cerebrovascular disease: clinical history, neurological examination, imaging and Gugging Swallowing Screen in the first 48 h. Patients were followed for 3 months via medical records to estimate 3-month mortality and readmissions.

Results

Out of 250 clinical records analyzed, 102 (40.8%) were evaluated for dysphagia. The prevalence of dysphagia was 32.4%. The risk was higher in older patients (p < 0.001), in severe stroke (p < 0.001) and in the hemorrhagic subtype (p = 0.008). An association was found with dysarthria and aphasia (p = 0.003; p = 0.017). Respiratory tract infections occurred in 14.4% of all patients (GUSS group 11.8% versus no GUSS group 16.2%), and in 75% of those with severe dysphagia (p < 0.001). Mortality at 3 months was 24.2% in dysphagic patients, especially high in the severe dysphagia group (75%, p < 0.001).

Conclusions

The type of cerebrovascular disease, NIHSS and GCS scores, age, dysarthria, and aphasia were significant associated factors to dysphagia. The prevalence of respiratory tract infections was higher in patients with no GUSS record, and no statistical significance was observed in related readmissions. Mortality at 3 months was superior in the severe dysphagia group.