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Health

Minimally conscious people woken with brain zap by their family

By Helen Thomson

23 May 2018

Eye

Those in a minimally conscious state normally can’t communicate

Rita Saitta/EyeEm/GettyStress

PEOPLE in a minimally conscious state have been “woken” at home for the first time, using brain stimulation therapy delivered by their family.

Some of those in the trial could respond to questions from their loved ones, having been unresponsive for years.

“They were more present… laughing when someone was telling a joke or crying when they heard sad news,” said one family member. “It was nice to see them laugh at funny scenes on the TV.”

People with severe brain trauma often fall into a coma. This can…

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