Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation (TDCS) for Facilitating Swallowing Improvement After an Acute Unilateral Hemispheric Stroke

Pilot Study of Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation for Facilitating Swallowing Improvement After an Acute Unilateral Hemispheric Infarction

The purpose of the research study is to investigate the effect of a brain stimulation technique called Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation (TDCS) in improving swallowing functions in subjects who develop dysphagia after a unilateral hemispheric infarction.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Acute ischemic stroke
• Between 24-168 hours after onset
• Moderate to severe dysphagia based on swallowing assessment

Exclusion Criteria:

• Preexisting swallowing impairment
• Intracerebral hemorrhage
• Pacemaker of other electrically sensitive device