Vegetative patient 'speaks' to doctors through scanner

13 November 2012 Last updated at 02:10 ET Help

A man thought to have been in a vegetative state for more than 10 years, has been able to let scientists know that he is not in any pain.

Scott Routley was asked questions while having his brain activity scanned.

Fergus Walsh reports.

The Mind Reader: Unlocking My Voice- a Panorama Special - will be broadcast on Tuesday 13 November at 22:35 on BBC One. Or catch up later on the BBC iPlayer using the link above.

BBC © 2013 The BBC is not responsible for the content of external sites. Read more.

This page is best viewed in an up-to-date web browser with style sheets (CSS) enabled. While you will be able to view the content of this page in your current browser, you will not be able to get the full visual experience. Please consider upgrading your browser software or enabling style sheets (CSS) if you are able to do so.