The effectiveness of transcranial magnetic stimulation in post-stroke dysphagia: a case report

Background: A 72-year-old male, experiencing dysphagia and left-sided weakness for six months post-stroke, encountered challenges such as coughing and choking during the consumption of liquids and soft foods, along with a prolonged meal-swallowing process. Bilateral thrombotic infarction and left lateralization were revealed through Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI). Case: The Gugging Swallowing Screening Scale (GUSS) assessment demonstrated severe impairment with a total score of 7, persisting despite conventional physiotherapy attempts to improve swallowing function. Subsequently, repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) was implemented, involving high-intensity stimulation in the ipsilesional hemisphere and low-intensity stimulation in the contralesional hemisphere. Remarkably, one month post-rTMS, the patient displayed significant progress, evidenced by an improved GUSS score of 15, indicating enhanced swallowing function.Discussion: This case emphasizes the positive impact of bilateral rTMS hemispheric stimulation on post-stroke dysphagia. The strategic application of high-intensity ipsilesional and low-intensity contralesional stimulation emerged as an effective intervention for alleviating swallowing difficulties. These findings highlight the potential of rTMS as an innovative therapeutic approach for persistent dysphagia following a stroke.