Question Title: Near-drowning experience

Forum: Neurology Forum
Topic: Neurology - General

Posted by CCF Neuro MD on August 13, 1997 at 21:39:23:

In Reply to: NEAR-DROWNING EXPERIENCE posted by Pat Osborne on July 20, 1997 at 10:55:24:

: I have a 21 year old friend who had a near-drowning experience. He has brain damage due from anoxia. He is presently in a nursing home and is a 2 on the Rancho Scale. His accident happened about 2 years ago . He had a seizure under water while swimming. His Mother is in desperate need to talk to someone about this. He has M.R.S.A. in his lungs (will he ever get rid of this?) He has several contractures(left elbow,needs surgery, but Mother is afraid he will have to go back on a respirator) contractures both wrists and fingers ,drop foot He also runs a fever often. . Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated. She also just need someone to talk in same situation Thank you very much,Pat

Dear Pat:

What your friend has suffered is extremely unfortunate. He and his family have my fullest sympathy. As I guess you know, the is no hope for any further cognitive or functional recovery at this point two years after anoxic brain damage. Management essentially remains supportive, and complications such as the ones you mention are very common. I have little more to add.
In case your friend's mother wishes to speak to a neurologist or rehabilitation specialist at the Cleveland Clinic, she is welcome to call (800)223-2273 toll free, for whatever help we might be able to offer. The neurologist she may want to speak to is Dr. Jeff Frank, while the neurorehabilitation specialist I can recommend is Dr. Vinod Sahgal. They are both nationally renowned doctors in their respective fields.
I wish your friend and his family the best of luck.
This information is provided for general medical educational purposes only. Please consult your physician for diagnostic and treatment options of your specific medical condition.

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