Navigating uncertainty following paediatric disorders of consciousness

Abstract

Disorders of consciousness (DoC) are an infrequent but impactful consequence of severe acquired brain injury in childhood. DoC, described as an altered state of consciousness, includes coma, vegetative state, and minimally conscious state (MCS). In the UK, it is estimated that each year 350 children and young people fall into the category of probable severe acquired brain injury requiring rehabilitation.[1 Hayes L, Shaw S, Pearce MS, Forsyth RJ. Requirements for and current provision of rehabilitation services for children after severe acquired brain injury in the UK: a population-based study. Arch Dis Child. 2017; 102: 813–20.]. Some of these children will fall into the category of DoC in the short or longer term.