A member asked:

My father is suffering from brain stem infract nd now its 6 monts he is on bed. he is not able to open his mouth, not able to move any part of his body?

2 doctors weighed in across 2 answers

Locked in: Although he is "locked in" he can likely see, hear, think and feel. Please make sure that people understand this when they visit. He may be able to communicate by blinking once for "yes" or twice for "no." ask him if he would like things read to him. Assure him of your love for him. It seems that he has been medically stabilized; seek a good specialist in rehab to help with his on-going needs.

Answered 8/25/2012

5.6k views

Thank
Dr. Joseph Pfeifer answered

Specializes in Trauma Surgery

Poor prognosis: If he had a brainstem infarction causing the symptoms you describe, his prognosis is very poor at 6 mos. post-infarct. How old is he? Can he communicate visually? As a family member, you have to determine what is the level of the quality of his life. Common complication in this condition include pneumonia, skin breakdown, blood clots in the legs going to the lungs and urinary infections.

Answered 6/17/2014

4k views

Thank

Related Questions