Abstract: Objective To investigate the effect of acupuncture combined with buccal electrical stimulation on dysphagia at oral phase after stroke. Methods 40 patients with oral-phase dysphasia after stroke were randomly divided into treatment group (n=20) and control group (n=20). The control group received routine therapy and swallowing training, and the treatment group received acupuncture and electrical stimulation on buccinator in addition. They were assessed with Oral Function Scale and Kubota's Drinking Test before and 20 d after treatment.Results There was no significant difference between both groups before treatment (P>0.05). Both groups improved after treatment (P<0.01), and improved more in the treatment group than in the control group (P<0.05). Conclusion Acupuncture combined with buccal electrical stimulation is satisfactory for oral-phase dysphagia after stroke.

Key words: stroke, dysphagia, oral phase, acupuncture, electrical stimulation