Physiotherapeutic intervention in patients with cerebrovascular disease in ICU: Literature review (Original)

Abstract

Introduction: Stroke is positioned as the second leading cause of death and one of the main causes of disability worldwide. During the acute phase of stroke, patients are admitted to the intensive care unit with the goal of reducing mortality and disability through multidisciplinary care. Objective: To examine the current evidence on the physiotherapy approach in the intensive care unit for patients with a recent cerebrovascular event. Methodology: A review of the literature was carried out in the databases PubMed, PEDro, SciELO, Cochrane and Journal of Acute Care Physical Therapy. Twenty articles were selected and analyzed based on interventions in the acute phase during the stay in the critical care unit. Results: The analysis indicates that early mobilization reduces the incidence of complications such as painful shoulder, pressure ulcers and contractures. In addition, a positive impact was observed on brain plasticity, facilitating functional recovery. Discussion: Physiotherapeutic intervention in stroke patients admitted to the intensive care unit reveals several significant clinical implications and highlights critical areas for future research. Conclusions: Our research demonstrates the importance of timely physiotherapy intervention. However, most studies emphasize subacute or post-stroke approaches focused on early mobility. Earlier, more intense and more frequent approaches, beyond being beneficial for the patient, are harmful since they further impair recovery and there are no significant functional benefits.