ABSTRACT
Consciousness disorders are closely related to the general dysfunction of the brain stem, and called by some authors brain stem insufficiency. To evaluate the degree of brain stem dysfunction, an original scale has been elaborated. Each group of brain stem functions are scored. Consciousness being the most important symptom of the brain stem insufficiency is scored about 50% in a 63-score scale. Scores are used to achieve the most objectivity in the clinical monitoring of the brain stem insufficiency. Its utility was examined in 75 patients with either ischemia or cerebral hemorrhage. Patients of both groups with severe insufficiency below 33 scores and persisting over 24 hours had no chance to survive. The authors suggest that the scores may successfully be used in the clinical monitoring of all disorders producing consciousness disturbances. Survival of patients with brain stem insufficiency in the course of cerebral ischemia or hemorrhage depends on the degree and duration of the brain stem insufficiency.
