Reply #7: hydrocephalus is a totally different condition for what Terri Schiavo [View All]

[whistle]

...has:

<snip>

What is hydrocephalus?

The term hydrocephalus is derived from the Greek words "hydro" meaning water and "cephalus" meaning head. As its name implies, it is a condition in which the primary characteristic is excessive accumulation of fluid in the brain. Although hydrocephalus was once known as "water on the brain," the "water" is actually cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) - a clear fluid surrounding the brain and spinal cord. The excessive accumulation of CSF results in an abnormal dilation of the spaces in the brain called ventricles. This dilation causes potentially harmful pressure on the tissues of the brain.

<link> http://www.ninds.nih.gov/disorders/hydrocephalus/detail_hydrocephalus.htm

People with hydrocephalus have working brains which may be normal or only partially damaged. By controlling the fluid build up, these patients can lead useful functioning lives.

Terri's cortex according to all of the doctors who have physically examined and tested Terri is damaged beyond any hope of ever being restored, even partially. The thinking part of Terri's brain is dead.