Correction: Belgium-Coma Recovery story
By APMonday, February 22, 2010
Correction: Belgium-Coma Recovery story
BRUSSELS — In stories Nov. 23, Nov. 24 and Nov. 25 about communication with a brain-injured man, The Associated Press erroneously reported how doctors first determined the man was conscious and not in a vegetative state. Dr. Steven Laureys used bedside behavioral tests to detect Rom Houben’s awareness, not a brain scan, which was done later.
The stories also erroneously said Laureys was involved in helping Houben communicate with a touch screen keyboard. Laureys says the man’s family and other doctors brought in a speech therapist to assist Houben with what’s called facilitated communication.
Last year, Laureys said he tested the technique and believed Houben was able to communicate. Additional study has shown the method doesn’t work in his case, Laureys said Friday.
