The longest coma ever recorded was experienced by Elaine Esposito, lasting 37 years and 111 days.
Elaine Esposito's Coma
Elaine Esposito's case is a significant record in medical history. She was a six-year-old girl when she underwent a routine appendix removal operation on August 6, 1941. Tragically, she never regained consciousness after being administered general anaesthetic, remaining in a coma until her death in 1978.
Here's a summary of her case:
| Detail | Description |
|---|---|
| Patient Name | Elaine Esposito |
| Cause | Coma following general anaesthesia during appendix removal |
| Date of Operation | August 6, 1941 |
| Date of Death | 1978 |
| Coma Duration | 37 years and 111 days |
Elaine Esposito's case highlights the potential risks associated with medical procedures, even seemingly routine ones. It also underscores the challenges faced by families and caregivers dealing with long-term comatose patients.
