NEW APPROACHES TO THE TREATMENT OF POST-STROKE PATIENTS: THE USE OF BIO-INSPIRED TECHNOLOGIES

Aim

To evaluate the clinical effectiveness of CCH and IHHT in the treatment of patients in the early recovery period of ischemic stroke compared with standard therapy.

Materials And Methods

A total of 255 patients in the early recovery period of moderate ischemic stroke (5–15 points on the NIHSS scale) with functional limitation corresponding to 3–4 points on the modified Rankin Scale were enrolled in the study. All patients received standard therapy, including pharmacological treatment, physiotherapy, therapeutic exercise, and massage. Patients receiving only standard therapy formed the comparison group (n = 60). An additional 120 patients received CCH (10–15 daily sessions lasting 90 minutes each), while 75 patients underwent IHHT (12–15 sessions). Treatment efficacy was assessed using standardized scales evaluating neurological status, mobility, and cognitive function. Results: Assessment using clinical rating scales demonstrated the highest effectiveness of combined therapy in the groups receiving CCH and IHHT compared with the control group. A statistically significant greater regression of neurological deficit was observed, along with improved mobility, self-care ability, and overall functional independence. Cognitive functions improved, and levels of anxiety and depression decreased. Conclusion: The obtained data suggest that inclusion of cranio-cerebral hypothermia and intermittent hypoxia–hyperoxia therapy in the comprehensive treatment of patients in the early recovery period of moderate ischemic stroke is clinically justified. Keywords: ischemic stroke; bio-inspired technologies; cranio-cerebral hypothermia; intermittent hypoxia–hyperoxia therapy