A Case Report of Treatment of a Patient with Pontine Hemorrhage and Respiratory Disturbance Using Korean Medicine

Abstract

Objectives: We examined the effects of Sinbi-tang on a patient with pontine hemorrhage and respiratory disturbance. Methods: A patient diagnosed with pontine hemorrhage and respiratory disturbance was treated with herbal medicine and acupuncture. We checked the peripheral oxygen saturation (SpO 2) by oximetry three times a day, and obtained an average value. We evaluated the improvement of symptoms by changes in the average applied O 2 and average SpO 2. Results: After taking Sinbi-tang and treatment with acupuncture therapy, the patient showed improvement in respiratory disturbance. Applied O 2 was gradually decreased from 4 L/min to 0 L/min and SpO 2 was stabilized. Conclusions: Korean medicine may provide effective treatment for respiratory disturbance in patients with pontine hemorrhage, but further study is needed.