Tulln An Der Donau

Researchers are evaluating the accuracy of echocardiographic predictors to detect atrial fibrillation (AF) in patients who have experienced embolic stroke of undetermined source (ESUS) or transient ischemic attack (TIA). AF, a common heart rhythm disorder, is a major cause of ischemic strokes. This study focuses on testing the diagnostic value of the atrial electromechanical conduction time measured by septal total atrial conduction time (sPA-TDI) and the LaHAsPa-Score, which combines patient data and echocardiographic measurements, for identifying AF in these patients. Participants undergo a 7-day ambulatory ECG monitoring following their routine clinical diagnostics to detect previously unrecognized AF. Additional echocardiographic measurements such as left atrial volume index, atrial electromechanical delay, and left atrial myocardial strain are also collected. The study includes a two-year follow-up period to capture incidental AF detection through implantable cardiac monitors or pacemakers if applicable. These measures will be compared to other tests including 12-lead ECG, Holter ECG findings, laboratory results, and established risk scores. During the study, participants receive comprehensive assessments including brain imaging to confirm stroke type, electrocardiograms, echocardiography, and continuous heart rhythm monitoring. Researchers will measure the diagnostic accuracy of the specified echocardiographic parameters in predicting AF based on 7-day ECG recordings. Safety and technical quality of data will be monitored, and patients are followed for up to two years to identify any AF occurrences. The goal is to improve risk stratification and guide monitoring strategies for patients at risk for AF after ESUS or TIA.

Neurogenic dysphagia, a condition caused by disruptions in the neurological systems controlling safe swallowing, is common in patients with neurological diseases such as stroke, traumatic brain injury, Parkinson's disease, and others. It frequently affects patients treated in Intensive Care Units who are intubated or tracheotomised. This condition significantly impacts quality of life, medication effectiveness, and nutrition, and poses risks like aspiration pneumonia. Researchers are evaluating the use of pharyngeal electrostimulation therapy (using the Phagenyx® device) as a treatment for moderate to severe neurogenic dysphagia to determine its effectiveness and impact on swallowing outcomes. The therapy involves placing a special feeding tube with stimulation electrodes through the nose into the stomach. This device delivers electrical stimulation to the throat area for 10 minutes daily, typically for at least three consecutive days, with up to six sessions depending on patient progress. The treatment sessions are monitored closely using software that ensures proper electrode contact and controls the timing between sessions. The device also allows for nutrition delivery and remains in place like a standard feeding tube during treatment. Participants undergo standardized swallowing and neurological assessments before, during, and after treatment, including clinical screenings and instrumental evaluations like the Fibreoptic Endoscopic Evaluation of Swallowing (FEES). Key measures include the Dysphagia Severity Rating Scale and the Penetration Aspiration Scale, tracked over about one year. The study aims to systematically record these parameters to assess the therapy's effect, with follow-up before hospital discharge to document long-term outcomes.