706 - The Artery of Percheron Infarct: A Rare Cause of Bilateral Thalamic Stroke

There is limited literature regarding comprehensive rehabilitation approaches for patients following thalamic ischemic strokes. One of the main primary barriers to recovery in this patient is akinetic mutism. Case studies have shown zolpidem can be beneficial for treating akinetic mutism by restoring brain function and improving arousal. Another significant challenge was apraxia of eyelid opening (AOE), which can limit visual engagement and participation in therapy. Occupational therapy plays a central role in visual compensation strategies and sensory cueing techniques to facilitate voluntary eyelid opening. In this case, Kinesio taping was used during occupational therapy sessions as an adjunct to support eyelid activation. This assisted the patient in enhancing her visual input, spatial awareness, and postural control. This helped optimize her sensorimotor feedback, thereby enhancing balance and gait during mobility tasks.

Conclusions: We present a rare case of AOP infarction with a constellation of post-stroke deficits including akinetic mutism, apraxia of eye opening, hypersomnolence, cognitive impairment, and progressive difficulties with ambulation and balance. This case highlights the importance of a multidisciplinary approach to address post-stroke deficits seen in bilateral thalamic stroke.