DEVICE TRACKS BLOOD FLOW IN BRAIN

"Headset ultrasound monitor that detects the after effects of the brain injuries in patients”

Cerebral Vasospasm is a condition where the lumen of the brain blood vessel narrows because of overcontraction of the vessel wall which can lead to tissue ischemia or even death. It can develop several days after an initial injury; it is found most often in soldiers with blast related injuries and also in patients with cerebral aneurysms.

The existing technology for this condition is currently detected using ultrasound and requires a technician who is trained in the procedure of identifying the blood vessels and holding the beam in position. However, PhysioSonics in Bellevue, Washington, has developed a monitor that eliminates the technician and therefore, makes the entire process automatic. This company is currently in the process of innovating the device for military use. The existing monitor directs an array of ultrasound beams and uses an algorithm to detect the affected artery in the brain. Then, it measures the perfusion and the pressure in the brain and records the velocity along with the index of flow. This type of monitoring involves an invasive procedure (drilling hole into the skull), so the device serves as surrogate for direct pressure data and measurements. Although, the monitor detects the blood flow continuously which makes it easier to track the flow over time; in fact, it is not yet sensitive enough to detect or signal danger. Currently, the company has conducted clinical studies and making the necessary changes for detecting this dangerous condition.
http://www.technologyreview.com/biomedicine/39313/?mod=chthumb
http://www.brain-aneurysm.com/cv.html