A new device could add hope to those who live in semi-consciousness from brain injury. Like a pacemaker, this device manufactured by Medtronic Inc. is embedded under the skin near the chest. But its two electrodes journey to the brain instead of the heart. Buried into the area controlling consciousness, the electrodes can jump-start patients to a more awake state, lending support to the damaged nerves in the area. One subject went from following voices with his eyes to speaking 16 words and drinking on his own. Eleven more patients will be tested in the pilot study, getting implanted with gadgets that, while sporting a decent battery life, have no MP3 or MP4 support.

Edit: Some more new on this via engadget 

“A 38-year-old man who had been in a near-coma for six years was recently awakened via the use of a pacemaker and two electrodes which were deeply implanted in his brain. The electrical device, manufactured by a company called Medtronic, was used to send impulses to the area of the brain regulating consciousness, and researchers believe that the stimulation may be enhancing brain circuits that are still capable of functioning. The man, the first of 12 to undergo the procedure, has gone from a vegetative state to being able to play cards, speak with family members, and take trips outside. While this isn’t exactly a new technology — as doctors have been experimenting with deep-brain stimulation in the treatment of Parkinson’s, epilepsy, and brain injuries for some time — it is a clear sign that there’s hope for patients whom the medical community has been, heretofore, unable to treat.”

I do have to say that sometimes technology really is the bee’s knee’s. I hope this product succeeds, it is quite amazing. But shouldn’t the device be called a “Brain-Waker” not a “Brain Pacemaker”, eh who cares its still pretty cool. Now only if they could make one that injects caffeine straight to the brain for dull drum Thursdays.