Effectiveness of High-definition Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation (HDtDCS) Along with Coma Stimulation for Enhancing Consciousness in a Stroke Survivor: A Case Report

Addressing consciousness after a stroke is essential because the level of consciousness is the key to the patient’s overall improvement, functional recovery, and independence. In this case, we used high-definition transcranial direct current stimulation (HDtDCS) to enhance consciousness. HDtDCS is a non-invasive electrical stimulation of the brain at the target location. We use low-intensity direct current to stimulate the brain. This intensity alters the membrane permeability and resting membrane potential of the cortical neuronal network. A 79-year-old male with acute midbrain infarcts presented in an unresponsive state to the tertiary care center. The hospital discharged the patient and admitted him to an inpatient rehabilitation facility for stroke rehabilitation. Here, we aim to improve the patient’s consciousness by administering HDtDCS and coma stimulation. The subject’s improvements in consciousness were recorded using outcome measures such as the Glasgow Coma Scale and the Coma Recovery Scale-Revised. In this single case of midbrain infarction, consciousness was improved by using HDtDCS targeting the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex with left-sided anodal stimulation.