OUTCOME AFTER SEVERE TRAUMATIC BRAIN INJURY - COMA, THE VEGETATIVE STATE, AND THE MINIMALLY RESPONSIVE STATE

Over the past 10 years, rehabilitation has assumed a primary role in t he care and treatment of the patient with severe traumatic brain injur y (TBI). This has brought about increased attention to factors influen cing outcome in this population. This article discusses the ''state of the art'' in assessment, treatment, and research specific to the unde rresponsive patient with seven TBI. Issues concerning diagnostic accur acy, methods of assessment, prognostic indicators, and treatment inter ventions are considered in relation to outcome. Recommendations for ad vancing the state of the art during the next decade are offered.