Post-Stroke Sequelae Diagnosis

Post-stroke sequelae refer to persistent neurological dysfunction after a stroke, manifested as hemiplegia, aphasia, dysphagia, and other forms. Without timely diagnosis and intervention in the early stages, symptoms are often difficult to reverse, leading to long-term disability. Clinically, comprehensive evaluation of disease progression and residual function mainly relies on neuroimaging, physiological reflex tests, and functional assessments.

Diagnostic Basis of Post-Stroke Sequelae

1. Clinical symptom observation

After a stroke, patients often present with varying degrees of hemiplegia, language disorders, and reduced coordination. Doctors make preliminary judgments based on signs, medical history, and onset time to determine whether sequelae exist.

2. Imaging examinations

CT and MRI are the core tools for diagnosing post-stroke sequelae. They identify the location and extent of brain tissue damage, helping to determine whether the damage is the root cause of the current dysfunction.

3. Neurological function scoring

Tools such as NIHSS and the modified Barthel Index are used to quantify motor, language, and cognitive functions, which aids in formulating rehabilitation plans and tracking efficacy.

4. Motor function testing

By assessing limb muscle strength, joint mobility, and balance control, clinicians can judge the severity of hemiplegia and recovery potential, which is an important routine step in rehabilitation diagnosis.

5. Speech and swallowing ability assessment

Speech therapists evaluate language function through conversation and reading comprehension. When necessary, swallowing videography is performed to assess risks of aspiration or feeding difficulties.

6. Psychological and cognitive evaluation

Some patients experience memory decline, mood swings, or spatial disorientation after stroke. Tools such as the Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) and psychological scales are commonly used to identify these issues.

7. Electrophysiological testing

Electromyography (EMG) and nerve conduction velocity testing evaluate the status of peripheral nerves and muscles, helping to distinguish whether dysfunction is of central or peripheral origin.

8. Activities of daily living (ADL) testing

Assessing the ability to perform basic tasks such as dressing, toileting, and eating helps clarify functional independence and guides rehabilitation training.

9. Individual rehabilitation assessment records

Tracking patients’ performance at different rehabilitation stages allows physicians to monitor disease progression, adjust treatment plans, and improve long-term management and follow-up.

10. Stem cell therapy suitability assessment

By evaluating residual neurological function, age, and underlying conditions, physicians can determine whether a patient is suitable for stem cell therapy, providing scientific support for precise treatment.

Conclusion

The diagnosis of post-stroke sequelae requires multidisciplinary collaboration and multi-dimensional evaluation to ensure timely treatment and effective rehabilitation. Experts at United Life International Medical Center emphasize that integrating imaging with functional assessment provides patients with a more scientific rehabilitation pathway, improving prognosis and quality of life.