Which part of the brain is damaged in a vegetative state?
Oct 20, 2022
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Yang Jun
Introduction
A vegetative state results from damage to the cerebral cortex. It may occur after events such as traffic accidents, high falls, or strokes, leading to a condition in which the brain's neural functions are severely impaired. Since the cerebral cortex contains a large amount of neural tissue, injury to this area can affect brainstem function. When brainstem function becomes abnormal, the patient loses the ability to perceive and respond to the external environment.
Generally, vegetative states are caused by damage to the cerebral cortex.
A vegetative state may occur after events such as traffic accidents, high falls, or strokes, resulting in a condition where the brain's neural functions enter a vegetative state. Since the cerebral cortex contains a large amount of neural tissue, injury to this area can affect brainstem function. When brainstem function is impaired, patients may lose awareness of their surroundings or exhibit unconscious crying and incontinence. Although they can breathe independently, they are unable to communicate with the outside world. Moreover, a vegetative state is not equivalent to brain death; rather, it involves reversible damage to brainstem function.
Since patients in a vegetative state may remain bedridden for long periods, it is important during recovery to regularly turn the patient to prevent discomforts such as pressure ulcers or blisters. Additionally, during treatment, family members can help prevent muscle atrophy or weakness caused by prolonged immobility through limb massage.
