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Brainstem infarction is a type of stroke caused by decreased blood flow to the brain stem, resulting in tissue death and organ failure. It can be caused by cerebral ischemia, thrombosis, or embolism. Symptoms include slurred speech, difficulty swallowing, and loss of balance. Treatment options include medication, surgery, and ongoing care such as physical and speech therapy.
A brainstem infarction, or brainstem infarction, is a type of stroke. It occurs when blood flow to the brain stem suddenly stops or decreases. This lack of blood and oxygen carried by the blood results in tissue death and organ failure. In some cases, a brainstem stroke can leave permanent damage.
Cerebral ischemia is the most common event leading to a brainstem infarction. An ischemic stroke is the end result of three possible problems. Shock from an injury can cause decreased blood flow. Thrombosis is a blockage caused by a clot located somewhere near the brainstem. An embolism, which is another type of clot located somewhere else away from the brain, can lead to a reduction in blood supply to the brainstem.
Two different types of infarction in the brainstem are possible. A cerebral infarction occurs when the carotid arteries are affected, causing damage to the cerebral cortex section of the brain. The lower brainstem can also be affected by problems with the vertebral arteries in the spine, called a spinal cord infarction. No matter what type of heart attack occurs, the damage can be life-altering.
The symptoms of a brainstem infarction coincide with the general symptoms of a stroke and are usually instantaneous. Slurred speech, difficulty swallowing, and loss of balance are common. Brainstem ischemia can also cause numbness or tingling anywhere in the body, memory loss, and droopy eyelids. In severe cases, death results from widespread organ failure.
The exact causes of a cerebral infarction are determined through tests. A computed tomography (CT) scan shows blood vessels and tissue, and a magnetic resonance image (MRI) focuses on the blood vessels. Carotid ultrasound tests blood flow in the carotid arteries with sound waves. An arteriography can be used to take pictures of the arteries.
There are several types of medications that can be used to treat an infarction in the brainstem. Anticoagulants and antiplatelets prevent blood clots from forming. Thrombolytics break up existing clots to restore proper blood flow. If seizures occur, anticonvulsants will be used. If oxygen tubes or ventilation are used to assist breathing, sedatives may be given for deep relaxation.
Many cases of cerebral infarction require surgery to treat the cause or repair the effects. A ventriculostomy can be used to reduce fluid buildup in the brain, and a craniotomy can be used to remove blood that may be pooling. Carotid endarterectomy procedures can be used to widen the carotid arteries to increase blood flow.
After treatment for the cause of brainstem infarction, ongoing care is often required. Regular neurological exams ensure that brain function is normal. Physical therapy helps restore balance and provides exercises specific to the condition. Speech therapy can be used to correct speech problems.
