Extraordinary Hope for Severe Brain Injury

In a landmark study published in the Journal, Nature, doctors described reviving a patient in a minimally aware coma by implanting tiny electrodes in the brain. Scientists believe that the process, which is now used in Parkinson’s patients, amplifies the electrical activity of the diminished injured brain resulting in increased awareness and function. The man could only say yes or no; however, after therapy, with the new system, was able to repeat the Pledge of Allegiance and is much more fully aware. This provides possible hope to the 100,000 to 300,000 minimally conscious patients now in the U. S., most of whom are in nursing homes. The doctors caution that those with more severe brain damage may not see such dramatic results. People interested in this procedure should search for facilities that advertise “deep brain stimulation for Parkinson’s rehabilitation.”