Barbiturate-Induced Coma

Definition
A barbiturate-induced coma, or barb coma, is a temporary state of unconsciousness brought on by a controlled dose of a barbiturate drug, usually pentobarbital or thiopental.

Purpose
Barbiturate comas are used to protect the brain during major brain surgery, such as the removal of arteriovenous malformations or aneurysms. Coma may also be induced to control intracranial hypertension caused by brain injury.

Description
One of the greatest hazards associated with brain injury is intracranial hypertension. Brain injury may be caused by an accidental head injury or a medical condition, such as stroke, tumor, or infection. When the brain is injured, fluids accumulate in the brain, causing it to swell. The skull does not allow for the expansion of the brain; in effect, the brain becomes compressed.
If the pressure does not abate, oxygenated blood may not reach all areas of the brain. Also, the brain tissue may be forced against hard, bony edges on the interior of the skull. In either case, the brain tissue may die, causing permanent brain damage or death.
Barbiturates reduce the metabolic rate of brain tissue, as well as the cerebral blood flow. With these reductions, the blood vessels in the brain narrow, decreasing the amount of swelling in the brain. With the swelling relieved, the pressure decreases and some or all brain damage may be averted.
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29-Mar-12 Update:
Ben is finally out of the ICU ward over the weekend!
But he is still in a semi-conscious state (probably only quarter-conscious??)... Cant talk, cant really move his limbs, cant control his movements, cant this, cant that. Dun even know if his memories are still intact anot... Dunno if he still recognizes his family, friends, colleagues, etc
See liao feel so sad... Hope the physio-theraphy will help him regain to almost his former healthy state.