Intervention of a Multi-channeled Oral Irrigation Device for Improving Oral Health in Rehabilitation Patients After Stroke

Abstract

The purpose of this study is to evaluate the efficacy and safety of a multi-channel oral irrigation (MCOI) device for oral care in stroke patients at a rehabilitation hospital. Turbidity and food residue in oral irrigated water collected by the MCOI were assessed, along with oral health indicators such as tongue coating and dryness. Twenty-four stroke patients, including 11 with cognitive impairment, used the MCOI without adverse effects. Following 3 consecutive cycles of the MCOI, there was a significant reduction in the turbidity and food residue of the mouth-rinsed water (p<0.001). In conclusion, the use of the MCOI in stroke patients resulted in improved oral hygiene, offering a new alternative for challenging oral care in stroke patients. Additionally, it may save therapists' time during swallowing rehabilitation sessions by incorporating oral cleaning practices.