The Value of Interdisciplinary Collaboration in Lateral Medullary Syndrome Rehabilitation: A Case Report

Abstract

Wallenberg's syndrome, also known as lateral medullary syndrome (LMS), is a neurological condition resulting from damage to the lateral portion of the medulla oblongata. We present a case of a 64-year-old man with Wallenberg's syndrome who presented for acute rehabilitation after sustaining a cerebrovascular accident (CVA). As seen in our patient, common symptoms of LMS include difficulty swallowing, hoarseness, ipsilateral weakness, and ipsilateral loss of sensation or numbness. Although the prognosis following infarction is often good, dysfunction in swallowing is one of the key deficits that have a long-term impact on patient quality of life. We aim to emphasize the significance of the interdisciplinary approach to achieving favorable health outcomes in patients with LMS.

Keywords: cerebrovascular accident (stroke); lateral medullary syndrome (wallenberg syndrome); occupational therapy; physical therapy rehabilitation; rehab; speech and swallowing therapy; wallenberg’s syndrome.

Figure 1. Modified Barium Swallow

Modified barium swallow images showing poor to no posterior pharyngeal wall motion and residual pools in the back of the throat (blue arrow).