Revisão de literatura: toxina botulínica no tratamento da espasticidade muscular após o acidente vascular cerebral

Abstract

In the treatment of muscular spasticity after a stroke, botulinum toxin plays a crucial role. It temporarily interrupts hyperactive muscle contractions by blocking certain nerve signals when injected into specific areas. As a result, muscles can relax, making rehabilitation easier and stiffness less problematic. It is essential to emphasize that this process is not a cure, and its success may vary from case to case. The use should be carefully monitored by healthcare specialists, but patients may experience improved motor skills, greater pain relief, and no overall better quality of life. This study aimed to analyze the efficacy and safety of botulinum toxin type A in reducing spasticity and improving the functionality of post-stroke patients. An integrative literature review was conducted through searches in the PubMed, SciELO, and ScienceDirect databases, using controlled descriptors related to botulinum toxin, spasticity, and stroke. Articles published between 2013 and 2024, available in full and addressing the clinical use of botulinum toxin type A in adult individuals diagnosed with stroke, were included. The analyzed studies demonstrated that botulinum toxin type A provides significant reduction in spasticity, improves range of motion, facilitates physical therapy, and has a positive impact on quality of life. The combination of this treatment with intensive rehabilitation programs showed superior outcomes compared to the isolated use of the toxin. Reported adverse effects were mostly mild and self-limiting. Botulinum toxin type A is an effective and safe intervention for managing post-stroke spasticity, especially when integrated into multidisciplinary rehabilitation approaches. Its use contributes to functional improvement, pain reduction, and increased autonomy of patients, reaffirming its role as an important therapeutic tool in the neurological sequelae resulting from stroke.