Expertise: Cancer care, geriatric diseases, musculoskeletal diseases, neurological diseases

46-Year-Old Engineer Gradually Recovers Independence After a Car Accident

       “The moment the crash happened, it felt like the sky was falling.” Forty-six-year-old Mr. Hu, an engineer with no chronic health conditions, was struck by a tour bus that failed to yield to pedestrians while he was crossing a crosswalk on February 28, 2025. Although he appeared to have no severe external injuries, a CT scan at Far Eastern Memorial Hospital’s Emergency Department revealed a sizeable intracranial hemorrhage and dangerously high intracranial pressure (ICP). The hospital immediately arranged a craniotomy to relieve the pressure. After several weeks in the Neuro Intensive Care Unit (NICU), Mr. Hu was transferred to a general ward, where he began receiving traditional Chinese acupuncture therapy. He can now express simple requests, including asking for a hamburger—much to the relief and delight of his family.

Multiple Surgeries and Intracranial Pressure Control

Saving a Critically Injured Patient’s Life

      Hospital records indicate that upon arrival, Mr. Hu’s CT scan showed acute subdural hematoma on the right side of his brain with significant swelling and elevated ICP. His Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS) score was E1V1M1, indicating deep coma. Neurosurgeons performed a decompressive craniectomy and cleared the blood clots, successfully stabilizing his condition. Further examinations revealed an epidural hematoma on the left side and hydrocephalus, which required additional surgery and placement of a drainage tube. During this period, Mr. Hu required mechanical ventilation due to the severity of his injuries and developed drug-induced hepatitis and a possible pneumonia infection. Thanks to aggressive treatment by the medical team, his condition gradually stabilized.

      While in the NICU, the focus was on managing ICP, preventing infection, and regulating blood pressure and respiratory support. After several weeks, Mr. Hu was finally able to have his endotracheal tube removed and was transferred to a general ward.

Integrative Medicine: Inpatient Acupuncture Speeds Neurological Recovery

      Some might wonder, “With such a severe brain injury, can acupuncture help?” In recent years, many major hospitals have established Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) departments where acupuncture is an adjunct therapy for inpatients, especially in neurological rehabilitation. Stimulating key acupuncture points may help improve blood flow, reduce muscle tension, and facilitate motor function and consciousness recovery.

       According to Dr. Liao Kuo-Fan, an attending physician in the Traditional Medicine Department at Far Eastern Memorial Hospital, once neurosurgeons deemed Mr. Hu’s condition stable in the general ward, they began acupuncture treatments. Through individualized point selection and weekly sessions, the muscle tone in Mr. Hu’s left side gradually decreased, and his mental clarity improved. He can now briefly interact with family and nursing staff and even voice his craving for a hamburger. This observable milestone has greatly encouraged both Mr. Hu and his family.

Acupuncture Is Not a Miracle Cure

Combining Eastern and Western Approaches Varies by Patient

      Acupuncture is not a one-needle-fixes-all therapy. It must be combined with surgery, medications, and rehabilitation. Patients with traumatic brain injuries often face complex challenges such as impaired consciousness, paralysis, and speech or emotional issues. A comprehensive team approach is crucial for optimal results. While acupuncture can help with nerve damage or postoperative recovery, actual effectiveness depends on each patient’s condition, constitution, and timing of treatment. Those interested in adding Chinese medicine to their regimen should consult medical professionals and maintain open communication with their Western medical teams to develop the most suitable integrative plan.

Promoting “Inpatient Acupuncture”

A Better Chance at Recovery for More Patients

        As medical science advances, integrative approaches—combining Eastern and Western therapies—become increasingly important in hospital settings. In neurosurgery, orthopedics, stroke, and even cancer palliative care, many hospitals incorporate acupuncture or Chinese herbal medicine alongside the latest Western treatments. This collaborative approach provides swift surgical and technological support during the acute phase and then uses acupuncture to accelerate recovery during rehabilitation.

        Mr. Hu’s case underscores the importance of integrating Eastern and Western methods: first, life-saving surgery to stabilize intracranial pressure; then, once his condition is allowed, inpatient acupuncture gradually improves mobility and consciousness. With more clinical data and experience, the public can better understand the role of Traditional Chinese Medicine in comprehensive care, making fuller use of available resources for the patient’s physical and mental well-being.

Conclusion

       Eastern and Western medicine are not at odds but rather complement each other. Acupuncture has become an essential tool in modern rehabilitation. For patients like Mr. Hu, who suffered severe trauma, inpatient acupuncture played a crucial role in his gradual return to interacting with the world. Far Eastern Memorial Hospital will continue promoting integrative healthcare, hoping that more patients and families will benefit and that overall medical quality will improve.

(This article is for general medical information only. For specific treatment guidelines, please consult a qualified healthcare professional based on your needs.)