Ultrasonographic Evaluation of Morphological and Functional Characteristics of Intercostal Muscles in Stroke Patients and Their Relationship With Clinical Parameters
The aim of this study is to evaluate the morphological and functional characteristics of parasternal intercostal muscles in patients with stroke using ultrasonography. Parasternal intercostal muscle thickness and thickening fraction will be assessed on both the hemiplegic and non-hemiplegic sides. The relationship between ultrasonographic findings and respiratory muscle strength, motor function, balance, functional independence, and quality of life will also be investigated. A healthy control group will be included to establish reference values and enable comparative analyses.
Eligibility
Sex
ALL
Min age
18 Years
Max age
75 Years
Healthy volunteers
Accepted
Inclusion Criteria (Stroke Group):
* Age between 18 and 75 years.
* History of ischemic or hemorrhagic stroke.
* Ability to understand and comply with study procedures.
* Provision of written informed consent.
Exclusion Criteria (Stroke Group):
* Presence of acute or chronic pulmonary disease.
* History of thoracic or abdominal surgery.
* Presence of another neuromuscular disorder.
* Aphasia or cognitive impairment preventing participation in assessments.
* Active malignancy.
Inclusion Criteria (Healthy Control Group):
* Age between 18 and 75 years.
* Willingness to participate in the study.
* Provision of written informed consent.
Exclusion Criteria (Healthy Control Group):
* History of stroke or other neurological disorders.
* History of chronic respiratory disease (e.g., COPD, asthma).
* Chest wall deformity.
* Presence of systemic diseases that may affect muscle function.
Primary outcome measure(s)
Parasternal Intercostal Muscle Thickening Fraction (ICTf) — Baseline Ultrasonographic assessment of parasternal intercostal muscle contractility. Thickening fraction will be calculated as: (Inspiratory Thickness - Expiratory Thickness) / Expiratory Thickness × 100. Higher values indicate greater inspiratory muscle contractile activity. Comparison will be performed between the hemiplegic and non-hemiplegic sides.
This page summarises publicly available registry data for informational purposes — not medical advice. Eligibility is determined by each study team; patients should discuss participation with their clinician.
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