Deglutition Disorders during Stroke: Clinical, Paraclinical and Prognostic Aspects in the Neurology Department of Conakry University Hospital

Abstract

Introduction: Swallowing disorders are a significant factor in mortality and morbidity in patients with acute stroke. The aim of this study was to assess the incidence, clinical course and prognosis of swallowing disorders during stroke in the Neurology Department of Conakry University Hospital. Patients and Methods: This was a prospective descriptive study lasting 6 months from 1er July to 31 December 2020. All patients hospitalised for stroke confirmed by brain imaging were included. All patients hospitalised for stroke with a swallowing disorder assessed by the Deppipo test were included. Results: During our study period, 76 of 187 patients (40.6%) presented with swallowing disorders. Women predominated (71.1%). Coughing during swallowing was the main symptom observed in 69.7% of patients, followed by the absence of a nausea reflex in 52.6%. The mean NIHSS was 13.5 ± 3.4. A good outcome was observed in 48.6%, with 38.1% of patients developing inhalation pneumonitis. This was strongly associated with mortality (p?0.001). The mortality rate secondary to swallowing disorders was 28.90%. Conclusion: Swallowing disorders during stroke are common and lead to complications and high mortality.