Anoxic Brain Injury

Overview

Anoxic brain injury occurs when the brain is completely deprived of oxygen, even for a short time. Without oxygen, brain cells begin to die, leading to a range of long-term cognitive, physical, and behavioural challenges. Rehabilitation plays a crucial role in helping individuals regain independence and quality of life.

At The Royal Buckinghamshire Hospital, we specialise in consultant-led inpatient neurorehabilitation for adults recovering from anoxic brain injuries. Our experienced multidisciplinary team supports patients through complex recovery journeys.

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What Causes Anoxic Brain Injury?

Anoxic brain injury is most often caused by medical emergencies or traumatic events that interrupt oxygen supply to the brain. Common causes include:

• Cardiac arrest
• Respiratory failure
• Near-drowning
• Choking or airway obstruction
• Drug overdose
• Severe asthma or anaphylaxis
• Complications during surgery or anaesthesia

Even a few minutes without oxygen can result in lasting damage, depending on the duration and severity of the event.

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Symptoms of Anoxic Brain Injury

The effects of an anoxic brain injury vary greatly depending on which brain areas are affected and how long the oxygen deprivation lasted.

Cognitive Symptoms

• Memory loss or difficulty learning new information
• Poor attention and concentration
• Reduced processing speed
• Impaired problem-solving or judgement
• Disorientation

Physical Symptoms

• Weakness or paralysis (usually affecting all limbs)
• Balance and coordination problems
• Fatigue or reduced stamina
• Spasticity or muscle stiffness
• Difficulty with swallowing or speaking

Emotional and Behavioural Changes

• Anxiety or depression
• Irritability or emotional lability
• Reduced motivation or apathy
• Impulsivity or inappropriate behaviour

Some individuals may also experience seizures or develop post-hypoxic movement disorders.

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Diagnosis

Diagnosis is typically based on:

• Clinical history of oxygen deprivation
• Neurological examination
• MRI or CT scan showing brain injury
• Neuropsychological assessment to determine cognitive deficits

In some cases, individuals may emerge from a coma or enter a minimally conscious state before beginning their rehabilitation journey.

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Rehabilitation at The Royal Buckinghamshire Hospital

We provide personalised, multidisciplinary inpatient neurorehabilitation for adults with anoxic brain injury. Our programmes are tailored to support long-term recovery and improve function, independence, and wellbeing.

Our services include:

Physiotherapy

• Strength and mobility retraining
• Postural control and balance work
• Spasticity management
• Coordination and gait therapy

Occupational Therapy

• Support for activities of daily living
• Fatigue and pacing strategies
• Cognitive rehabilitation
• Visual-spatial retraining and assistive equipment

Speech and Language Therapy

• Communication therapy (verbal and non-verbal)
• Cognitive-communication support
• Swallowing assessments and therapy

Neuropsychology

• Cognitive testing and rehabilitation
• Behavioural and emotional support
• Family guidance and education
• Therapy for adjustment, anxiety or low mood

Specialist Nursing Care

• 24-hour monitoring and neurological care
• Nutrition, continence and skin integrity support
• Seizure management if required

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Who We Help

We work with adults (18+) who:

• Are medically stable after an anoxic event
• Have physical, cognitive or behavioural impairments affecting function
• Require an intensive, coordinated approach to neurorehabilitation
• May have complex needs involving multiple therapy disciplines

Call 01296 678800 or enquire online to discuss availability and suitability.

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Why Choose The Royal Buckinghamshire Hospital?

• Specialist in complex brain injury rehabilitation
• Multidisciplinary team with extensive experience in anoxic recovery
• Therapy delivered up to 7 days a week
• Calm, private environment designed for long-term recovery
• Family support and discharge planning integrated into care