Botulinum toxin type A injection in the treatment of dystonia after a stroke

Abstract

Objective To observe the effect of injecting botulinum toxin type A on muscle tension, disability level and ability in the activities of daily living in patients with post-stroke dystonia. Methods Thirty-two patients with post-stroke dystonia were divided into an observation group (n=16) and a control group (n=15). The patients in the observation group were injected with 200-600 U of botulinum toxin type A in the relevant muscles, while the patients in the control group were given 12 mg diphenhydrazole hydrochloride tablets orally. Before and 2, 6 and 12 weeks after the treatment, spasticity, disability and daily living ability were evaluated in both groups using the modified Ashworth scale (MAS), a disability assessment scale (DAS) and the modified Barthel index (MBI). Results After the treatment, the average MAS, DAS and MBI scores of both groups were significantly better than before the treatment. And the average MAS, DAS and MBI scores of the observation group were significantly better than those of the control group. Conclusion Botulinum toxin A injection can significantly improve dystonia and relieve disability among stroke survivors. Key words: Stroke; Dystonia; Botulinum toxin A; Benzhexol