Litigation

More evidence that those previously thought to be in a vegetative state are capable of conscious awareness

By Michael Kaplen

There is more evidence that those previously thought to be in a vegetative state and incapable of appreciating the world around them, do have conscious thoughts and are aware of their surroundings.

The New York Times reports about a car accident victim who was thought to be in a deep coma for 23 years.  In fact, this gentlemen was conscious all the time, but no one realized it! 

With the assistance of modern imaging techniques, using brain scans, researchers  in Belgium discovered that his brain was still active.  Now, techniques are being developed so that he will be able to communicate with those who are caring for him.
 
The lead researcher, Dr. Laureys, who recently published a paper on comas, said that as many as 4 out of 10 similar patients may have been misdiagnosed.

Read the full New York Times story:  Misdiagnosed with coma, Belgium man communicates after 23 years.

Full post as published by Brain Injury News and Information on November 24, 2009 (boomark / email).