Factors of gait independence at 15 days after stroke onset and their interrelationships in stroke patients: Decision tree analysis

Abstract

[Purpose] The aim of this study was to reveal predictors of gait independence at 15 days after stroke onset using a functional assessment of patients and decision tree analysis at stroke onset. [Participants and Methods] A total of 612 acute stroke patients were enrolled in this study. A total of 26 independent variables were measured at stroke onset: Age, gender, disease name, the Stroke Impairment Assessment Set (SIAS), Short Form Berg Balance Scale (SFBBS) total score, Timed Up and Go Test-Reserve (TUG-R), cognitive Functional Independence Measure (FIM) total score and 10-meter walk test. The dependent variable was walking ability. Based on the data, a decision tree for predicting independence of gait 15 days after the onset of stroke was developed. [Results] The SFBBS, a balance assessment, was at the top of the scale, suggesting that it was a strong predictor of gait independence. The results also showed that each of the factors with low values had interrelationships with other factors as if to compensate for them. [Conclusion] These results suggest the importance of assessing balance and gait function in predicting gait in acute stroke.