Course
Pontine strokes and ‘locked-in’ risk — basilar artery territory, detection, and communication safety (Advanced)
Advanced course: the pons contains critical motor pathways and cranial nerve systems. Large basilar territory strokes can cause severe paralysis with preserved awareness. Learn detection strategy and emergency questions
FoundationsCaregiver, SurvivorAdvanced45 minPlain (6–8)
Educational only
Educational only — not medical advice.
What you'll learn
- Recognize pontine stroke patterns (severe weakness, eye movement, swallowing)
- Understand the concept of locked-in syndrome at a high level
- Understand imaging strategy: CT for bleed, CTA for basilar occlusion, MRI DWI for early infarct
- Learn communication safety steps (yes/no eye code) and caregiver advocacy questions
Practice check
Check your understanding
A few untimed questions. Pick an answer to see instant feedback, then continue to the next lesson.
0 of 3 answered