What is an Induced Coma? Taiwo Awoniyi Set to Wake After Surgery

Nottingham Forest and Nigerian national team striker Taiwo Awoniyi is expected to be brought out of an induced coma following emergency surgery for a serious abdominal injury. 

The 27-year-old was hurt during a Premier League match against Leicester City after crashing into the goalpost while attempting to convert a cross. The incident left him visibly in pain and unable to continue, forcing Forest to play the remainder of the match with ten men.

Following the collision, Awoniyi underwent emergency surgery on Monday night. To aid his recovery, doctors placed him in an induced coma, a medically controlled state of unconsciousness that helps the body focus on healing by limiting physical movement and stabilizing vital functions like heart rate and breathing.

Why was Awoniyi placed in an Induced Coma?

While the injury was not deemed life-threatening, the decision to induce a coma was a precautionary step taken by doctors. The coma helped reduce stress on his system and allowed his body to recover more efficiently after the operation. 

According to medical reports, this method is often used in similar situations to manage pain, prevent complications, and give the body the best chance at recovery.

Nottingham Forest confirmed on Tuesday that Awoniyi is recovering well and is expected to be awakened on Wednesday as doctors complete the next phase of his treatment.

What exactly is an induced coma?

An induced coma is a temporary, medically induced state where a patient is kept unconscious using drugs. It’s commonly used in critical care when the body needs help to heal from severe injuries or after major surgeries. 

During this state, a ventilator often takes over the work of breathing while the patient’s body conserves energy and repairs itself.

This practice is not a cure in itself, but rather a supportive measure. It allows doctors to perform certain procedures and provides the patient’s system with the best chance to recover without the added stress of pain or physical movement.

How long does it last?

There’s no fixed duration for an induced coma. It can last from a few hours to several days, depending on the patient’s condition and how their body responds to treatment. 

In Awoniyi’s case, the coma was expected to last just long enough to stabilize him post-surgery and is part of a controlled recovery plan.

What to expect for Awoniyi

While it remains unclear when he’ll be discharged from the hospital or return to the pitch, the prognosis is positive. Forest fans and Nigerians alike are hopeful for a full recovery. 

The club has expressed confidence in his return, though no timeline has been set for his comeback.

The incident also sparked heated reactions during and after the match, especially given that the play leading to Awoniyi’s injury was not immediately flagged for offside, in line with officiating guidelines. But right now, the focus is firmly on Awoniyi’s health.