Augmentative and Alternative Communication Training Using Eye Blink Switch for Locked-in Syndrome Patient.

[locked-in syndrome]

Locked-in Syndrome is a severe pontine stroke causing quadriplegia , lower cranial nerve paralysis , and mutism with preservation of only vertical gaze and upper eyelid movement in a conscious patient . We present a case of a Locked-in Syndrome patient who received communication training with augmentative and alternative communication equipment by using eye blinks . After 3 weeks of training , the patient was able to make an attempt to interact with other people , and associate a new word by Korean alphabet selection . Augmentative and alternative communication equipment which uses eye blinks might be considered to be beneficial in improving the communication skills of locked-in syndrome patients .