Files and links (1)
Free to read and download, Open Access
Background: Cerebral hyperperfusion syndrome is a rare post-operative complication with high mortality rates if not managed properly. The purpose of this case report is to describe the rehabilitation and outcomes of a patient with cerebral hyperperfusion syndrome that may be informative for physical therapists encountering these patients. Case Description: A 58-year-old male presented to the emergency department after a seizure and subsequent hemiparesis. He had undergone a carotid endarterectomy 4 days prior to going to the hospital. The patient was found to have cerebral hyperperfusion syndrome, a rare post-operative complication of carotid endarterectomy. The patient remained in the hospital for 4 days in order to normalize his blood pressure. Physical therapy interventions included gait and therapeutic exercises to challenge the patient’s blood pressure within parameters set by the neurology team. Outcome Measures: The primary outcome measure utilized was the AM-PAC Inpatient Basic Mobility Short Form. Over the course of his 4-day hospital stay, the patient’s score improved from 16 to 24. Discussion: Current research shows blood pressure lability correlates with the development and progression of CHS after carotid endarterectomy. This case study explains one way of managing a patient with CHS and the role physical therapists can play. Future research could work to identify an appropriate blood pressure range to utilize with CHS patients to prevent the development of intracerebral hemorrhage.