Stroke rehabilitation--Singapore experience

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Rehabilitation Medicine
• Public Health

Background:

• Cerebrovascular disease (stroke) is a leading cause of neurological deficit and long-term disability.
• Rehabilitation is crucial for restoring function and improving quality of life in stroke survivors.
• Understanding patient demographics and outcomes is essential for optimizing stroke care.

Purpose of the Study:

• To analyze the characteristics and rehabilitation outcomes of patients with cerebrovascular disease.
• To identify factors influencing recovery and return to work after stroke.
• To evaluate the effectiveness of rehabilitation services provided at Tan Tock Seng Hospital.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective analysis of 1310 cerebrovascular disease cases admitted for rehabilitation between 1973 and 1982.
• Exclusion of cases due to head injury or brain tumors.
• Data collection on patient demographics, stroke etiology, comorbidities, and functional outcomes post-rehabilitation.

Main Results:

• The study included 1310 patients, with 58.24% males and 41.76% females. 48.24% were over 60.
• Cerebral thrombosis caused 77.25% of strokes; hypertension (61.68%) and diabetes mellitus (22.75%) were common comorbidities.
• Post-rehabilitation, 89.01% were ambulant, 91.91% achieved independence in self-care, and 50.60% of pre-stroke working patients returned to employment.

Conclusions:

• Rehabilitation significantly improves mobility, self-care independence, and return to work for stroke survivors.
• Early discharge (within one month) was common, with 95.8% staying less than three months.
• Stroke rehabilitation programs are effective in restoring functional capacity and facilitating reintegration into society.