Risk Factors Associated With Neurological and Extra-Neurological Complications and Mortality in Patients With Stroke

Introduction Understanding when and how systemic complications can occur after an acute stroke is crucial. It is important to identify patients who are at higher risk for these complications. Early and effective treatment based on this knowledge can significantly improve patient outcomes. The objective of this study was to identify the risk factors associated with neurological and extra-neurological complications and mortality in stroke patients treated at a secondary care hospital. Methods Of a total of 170 patients diagnosed with hemorrhagic/ischemic stroke and transient cerebral ischemia at a secondary care hospital in Mexico, the records of 125 were reviewed and of these, 86 were included in the study. The study group comprised 86 adult patients (> 18 years of age) diagnosed with ischemic or hemorrhagic stroke or transient cerebral ischemia. Their demographics, clinical characteristics, in-hospital complications, and mortality were retrospectively analyzed.  Results Of the 86 patients examined, 34.9% experienced complications, regardless of the type of stroke. The most significant factor associated with mortality and complications during hospitalization in patients with stroke was previous diseases. Other factors that were linked to higher mortality were pre-existing medical conditions. The most common neurological complication among patients with stroke during hospitalization was intracranial hypertension (3.5%). As for extra-neurological complications, pressure ulcers and nosocomial pneumonia had an occurrence rate of 4.7%. Conclusions The main neurological complication during hospitalization of patients with stroke was intracranial hypertension, while the extra neurological complications were pressure ulcers and nosocomial pneumonia.