Which variables predict long-term tube feeding in stroke patients?
Dr Deborah JC Ramsey*, Research Fellow in Stroke Medicine Dr DG Smithard, Consultant Physician in Elderly and Stroke Medicine Professor Lalit Kalra*, Professor of Stroke Medicine *Department of Stroke Medicine, Guys Kings & St Thomas School of Medicine, Kings College, London Health Care of Older People Department, William Harvey Hospital, Ashford, Kent Background A bedside swallow assessment gives little prognostic information in dysphagic stroke patients. This study considered variables predictive of persistent swallowing problems, defined by the need for long-term nasogastric (NG) or gastrostomy (PEG) feeding. Method Acute stroke patients were assessed for patient and stroke variables. Swallow was tested with a bedside assessment and the gag reflex noted. A casenote review determined numbers of patients needing a feeding tube. Regression models were developed to identify factors associated with the need for a feeding tube. Results Data were analysed for 242 patients: mean age 76.5 10
