Neuropediatrics
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Persistent vegetative state (PVS, apallic syndrome) has become a significant medical and social problem. The outcome of young people with PVS is a matter of great interest. Therefore, we analysed the outcome of 127 children and adolescents who were in PVS for at least 30 days following traumatic (n = 82) or hypoxic (n = 45) brain injury. ⋯ Thirteen patients (16%) with TBI became independent in everyday life versus only two (4%) with HBI. These results underline the important contribution of hypoxia in severe and permanent brain impairment. They also may help to establish the prognosis of children in PVS.