Transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS): its effect on improving dysphagia in stroke patients

摘要

Transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) may have a potential for improving post-stroke dysphagia. The purpose of this study was to examine the effect of tDCS on improving dysphagia in stroke patients. Forty stroke patients were divided randomly into two equal groups (the study (group A) and control groups (group B). Group A received a physical therapy program and active (tDCS), and group B received the same physical therapy program and sham (tDCS). The Dysphagia Outcome and Severity Scale (DOSS) and videofluoroscopy were performed in all patients before and after 2 weeks of the treatment program. Before treatment, there were no significant differences between the two groups for DOSS score or digital fluoroscopic findings. After treatment, there were significant differences between the study and control group for DOSS score and digital fluoroscopic findings. Anodal tDCS is effective in improving dysphagia in stroke patients.