Can electrical stimulation assist in recovery from semi conscious state?

Deep brain stimulation has been reported to be effective in restoring functioning to persons in a semi conscious state according to research presented at a meeting of the Society for Neuroscience in Atlanta on Sunday.

The research at this time is extremely limited and much more investigation needs to be undertaken to determine if, indeed this is a viable treatment.  Apparently, this is the first time that this form of therapy has been tried on patient's in a semi conscious state.  Previous attempts in patients in a vegetative state proved to be unsuccessful.

"The researchers said the case involved a 38-year-old man who suffered a severe brain injury that left him in a minimally conscious state for six years, unable to communicate or function in any consistent way."

"After using the technique on him for six months, researchers found significant improvement in his ability to move, communicate and function, including the ability to eat and respond verbally."

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