INCIDENCE OF DIAPHRAGMATIC DYSFUNCTION IN ACUTE STROKE PATIENTS ASSESSED BY ULTRASONOGRAPHY

Abstract

Introduction:Acute stroke is a leading cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide, often complicated by respiratory dysfunction. diaphragm, a key respiratory muscle, plays a critical role in maintaining adequate ventilation. Diaphragmatic dysfunction (DD) has been increasingly recognized as a significant complication in critically ill patients, including those with stroke, but its incidence and clinical impact remain poorly understood.Ultrasonography has emerged as a non-invasive, radiation-free tool for assessing diaphragmatic structure and function. Recent studies have demonstrated its utility in quantifying diaphragmatic contractile activity through measurements of diaphragmatic thickness and thickness fraction (TF). However, limited data exist on the role of ultrasonography in evaluating DD in acute stroke patients and its association with clinical outcomes such as mechanical ventilation needs, weaning failure, and ICU stay.Aim:1. Determine the incidence of DD in acute stroke patients using ultrasonography.2. Evaluate the impact of DD on clinical outcomes, including mechanical ventilation duration, weaning failure, and ICU stay.3. Assess the predictive value of diaphragmatic TF for mechanical ventilation needs.