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Updated: May 3, 2026
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Optimized Management of Endovascular Treatment for Acute Ischemic Stroke
Published on: January 18, 2018
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Constipation in Patients with Acute Ischemic Stroke: A Single-Center Retrospective Analysis
Akihito Kutsuna1, Yasuhiro Nishiyama1, Yuki Sakamoto1
1Department of Neurology, Graduate School of Medicine, Nippon Medical School.
Summary
Constipation after acute stroke is linked to damage in the left insular cortex. This study found left-sided insular infarction significantly increases constipation risk in stroke patients.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Gastroenterology
- Autonomic Nervous System
Background:
- Constipation is a common gastrointestinal motility issue following acute ischemic stroke, often linked to autonomic nervous system dysfunction.
- The insular cortex plays a role in autonomic regulation, with damage to the left insula potentially leading to constipation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the association between constipation and left-sided insular infarction in patients diagnosed with acute stroke.
- To identify key factors contributing to constipation post-stroke.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective analysis of acute stroke patients diagnosed with middle cerebral artery territory infarction (January 2015 - December 2018).
- Constipation defined as fewer than three bowel movements weekly or laxative prescription within two weeks of stroke onset.
- Evaluation of clinical characteristics and associated factors for constipation.
Main Results:
- Out of 892 patients, 32.8% experienced constipation.
- Constipation was more frequent in patients with insular (57.7%) and left-sided infarction (62.5%) compared to those without.
- Left-sided insular infarction showed the highest incidence of constipation (69.2%).
Conclusions:
- Left-sided infarction and insular cortex involvement are independent risk factors for constipation in acute stroke patients.
- Higher baseline National Institutes of Health Stroke Score is also associated with increased constipation risk.
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