Program

Lecture Abstract：
Dysphagia is a frequent and clinically important complication of stroke. Its consequences extend beyond aspiration pneumonia and include malnutrition, dehydration, prolonged hospitalization, reduced participation in rehabilitation, institutionalization, and impaired quality of life. Because swallowing function can change throughout stroke recovery, dysphagia management requires more than a single bedside examination. A structured pathway integrating early screening, precise assessment, individualized intervention, and longitudinal reassessment is essential.
This presentation will review the clinical impact of post-stroke dysphagia and describe an integrated swallowing-care model developed at National Cheng Kung University Hospital. The model begins with standardized early screening, followed by comprehensive clinical and instrumental assessment when indicated. Findings are translated into individualized dietary recommendations, compensatory strategies, and task-specific swallowing rehabilitation. Close collaboration among neurologists, rehabilitation professionals, nurses, dietitians, and swallowing specialists supports continuity of care from the acute stage through post-acute rehabilitation.
Particular attention will be given to stroke patients receiving post-acute care (PAC). Although many patients demonstrate meaningful improvement after structured rehabilitation, a subgroup shows limited swallowing recovery. Our PAC cohort study examines clinical factors associated with poor rehabilitation response and explores how early risk stratification may identify patients who require more intensive assessment, modified therapeutic strategies, or extended follow-up. Recognizing these patients early may improve treatment planning, facilitate communication with patients and families, and support more efficient allocation of rehabilitation resources.
The presentation will also discuss current limitations in swallowing assessment and emerging approaches for objective functional quantification. Interdisciplinary collaboration with engineering teams offers opportunities to develop devices and digital tools that complement conventional clinical and instrumental examinations.
Ultimately, effective dysphagia care should move beyond detecting aspiration alone. By combining systematic screening, precise functional assessment, risk-informed rehabilitation, and longitudinal monitoring, clinicians can better address the complex impact of post-stroke dysphagia and promote safer swallowing, improved nutrition, greater rehabilitation participation, and better patient-centered outcomes.