Doctors: Joan Rivers could end up in vegetative state or in wheelchair
As comedienne Joan Rivers is being brought out of her medically-induced coma, there are fears that she could end up in a vegetative state, or in a wheelchair.
Rivers, 81, has been hospitalised since Thursday, when she suffered cardiac arrest after her breathing stopped during a vocal cord procedure at a Manhattan clinic, her family and hospital officials said.
A source close to the family told New York Daily News: "The waking-up process has begun and will take until Tuesday.
"There is real concern that the part of the brain that controls motor skills may have been compromised, leaving her as either a vegetable or in a wheelchair."
According to the source, the family is considering a lawsuit over the complications that have arisen over what should have been a routine throat procedure.
"Shock and upset is turning to anger, and they are looking for someone to blame,” added the source.
Daughter Melissa Rivers, in a statement released by Mt Sinai Hospital, said: “Thank you for your continued love and support.
“We are keeping our fingers crossed,” she said.
Source: New York Daily News
Get The New Paper on your phone with the free TNP app. Download from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store now