Efficacy of Stellate Ganglion Block in Dysphagic Patients With Bulbar Palsy After Ischemic Stroke

A Randomized Controlled Study to Explore the Effect of Stellate Ganglion Block in Dysphagic Patients With Bulbar Palsy After Ischemic Stroke

This is a randomized controlled study, including dysphagic patients with bulbar palsy after ischemic stroke who were received in the department of rehabilitation medicine in 3 hospitals in China. All patients are randomly allocated to the observation group or the control group. Both groups are provided with comprehensive rehabilitation. Besides, the observation group additionally undergoes the stellate ganglion block. At admission and after 20-day treatment, video fluoroscopic swallowing study, and penetration-aspiration scale, Functional Oral Intake Scale, Flexible laryngoscope are used to assess swallowing function.

Palliation of dysphagia in patients with bulbar palsy after ischemic stroke continues to be a challenge.This is a randomized controlled study, including dysphagic patients with bulbar palsy after ischemic stroke who were received in the department of rehabilitation medicine in 3 hospitals in China. All patients are randomly allocated to the observation group or the control group. Both groups are provided with comprehensive rehabilitation. Besides, the observation group additionally undergoes the stellate ganglion block. At admission and after 20-day treatment, video fluoroscopic swallowing study, and penetration-aspiration scale, Functional Oral Intake Scale, Flexible laryngoscope are used to assess swallowing function.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Diagnosed with ischemic stroke according to the diagnostic criteria, with the stroke occurring in the medulla oblongata and diagnosed as bulbar palsy.
• Upper Esophageal Sphincter did not open or opened ineffectively, with food residue or aspiration, revealed by Videofluoroscopic Swallow Study.
• Age >18 years.
• First-time stroke.
• Steady vital signs,
• Transferred or admitted to the Department of Rehabilitation Medicine within 15d after onset.

Exclusion Criteria:

• The bulbar palsy caused by other diseases, such as neurodegenerative diseases.
• Pseudobulbar palsy.
• Complicated with other neurological diseases.
• Tracheostomy tube inserted.
• Simultaneously suffering from liver, kidney failure, tumors, or hematological diseases.
• Dysphagia caused by other possible diseases.
• Pregnant females.