Introduction: Artificial mechanical ventilation in the course of stroke presents a high mortality.
Objective: To describe the epidemiology of artificial mechanical ventilation and stroke patients
Methods: narrative review of the literature and authors’ opinions on the subject
Results and conclusion: Even today, with advanced knowledge in the physiopathology of the neurological event and modern techniques of respiratory support, it continues to be a problem of interest, which invites to reflect on the benefits of ventilation in this field. In Cuba, there is not enough research on the subject, however, mortality due to this cause is high. This phenomenon, which implies high costs and limited functional recovery in survivors, should continue to be studied.
Key words: stroke; artificial mechanical ventilation; epidemiology; costs; mortality.