A Brainstem Stroke Patient Successfully Weaned off Long-term Mechanical Ventilation: A Case Report

[Purpose] Brainstem stroke is characterized by central apnea with a decreased level of consciousness that often necessitates intervention by mechanical ventilation (MV). We report a unique case of a patient who was weaned off MV after 7 years. [Subjects] A male who required MV presented with apnea and decreased level of consciousness after sustaining damage to his brainstem 7 years previously. Several attempts to wean him off MV were unsuccessful. [Methods] We focused on evaluation of physical action, consciousness, respiratory rhythm, and respiratory fatigue. We carried out physiotherapy practice that focused on gait training to extend the time the patient spent in a seated position. [Results] The patient was successfully weaned off MV after 37 days of therapy. He was discharged from hospital 59 days after the initiation of therapy. [Conclusion] We believe that the results of this study will improve physiotherapy practice in the management of patients.