Neural network injury and motor functional parameters in subacute stroke patients using diffusion tensor imaging

BACKGROUND: The interaction of neural network and motor function in post-stroke brain tissue remains unclear. OBJECTIVE: To observe neural network impairment following subacute stroke by using diffusion tensor imaging, and to investigate the relationship with neurological defects and motor dysfunction. METHODS: A total of 19 patients after subactue stroke and 20 healthy adults were examined with diffusion tensor imaging. The following parameters were compared: fractional anisotropy, apparent diffusion coefficient, asymmetry indices of fractional anisotropy and apparent diffusion coefficient. The neurological defect and motor function were evaluated with the corresponding scales. The 10-meter walking speed was measured. The correlation of diffusion tensor imaging parameters with the scale scores and 10-meter walking speed was analyzed. RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: The stroke group exhibited reduced fractional anisotropy value asymmetry and fractional anisotropy value in bilateral posterior limbs of the internal capsule. Apparent diffusion coefficient value asymmetry and apparent diffusion coefficient value in the posterior limb of the internal capsule were lower than control unaffected side (P < 0.05). Apparent diffusion coefficient value and apparent diffusion coefficient value asymmetry in posterior limb of the internal capsule showed a strong negative correlation with Fugl-Meyer assessment scores of the lower extremities (P < 0.05). Diffusion tensor imaging parameters is closely linked with motor dysfunction of the lower extremities in subacute stroke patients. Local stroke lesion-caused neurological defect is the leading cause of motor dysfunction of the lower extremities.