New York City, March 3 -- Several studies conducted over the last decade have found that up to a quarter of unresponsive patients with recent brain injuries may have a level of consciousness that is generally hidden from their families and physicians.

New research from Columbia University and NewYork-Presbyterian may soon help physicians identify unresponsive brain-injury patients with hidden consciousness who are likely to achieve long-term recovery by looking for brain waves that are indicative of normal sleep patterns.

"We're at an exciting crossroad in neurocritical care where we know that many patients appear to be unconscious, but some are recovering without our knowledge. We're starting to lift the lid a little bit and find some ...