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Is it possible to live with only half a brain?

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: Stroke is a major cause of disability, with recovery driven by neuroplasticity and rehabilitation. We report a 41-year-old woman with a malignant ischemic stroke, requiring decompressive craniotomy and complicated by meningitis. Seven months later, she presented with right hemiplegia, sensory transcortical aphasia, and severe functional dependence. Over one year, she completed 20 weeks of intensive rehabilitation, achieving assisted ambulation with a tripod and knee brace, improved independence in activities of daily living with minimal assistance, and language recovery from sensory transcortical to anomic aphasia. Cognitive function was largely preserved. This case highlights the potential for significant functional recovery after extensive stroke in a young patient, emphasizing the importance of intensive rehabilitation.

Source: Algarve Médico

DOI: 10.83266/algarvemedico.121

Authors: Pires, Maria, Neves, Francisco, Fialho, Ana Néri, Mesquita, Sofia, Silva, Catarina, Teixeira, Daniela

Institutions: Centro de Medicina de Reabilitação do Sul, Unidade Local de Saúde do Algarve

Language: English

Topic: Stroke Rehabilitation and Recovery

Subfield: Rehabilitation

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: diamond

OpenAlex ID: W7225645819

FWCI:

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Related to: 10