On-the-Spot Brain Scan

Diagnosis of traumatic brain injury (TBI) typically requires the use of expensive medical imaging like computerized tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). But in situations where such equipment isn’t available or practical, a new mobile brain scanner can provide clinicians with a reliable indicator that’s up to 98 percent accurate in detecting the presence or absence of TBI.

BrainScope One consists of a disposable electrode headpiece and smartphone software that records an electroencephalogram and analyzes it in about five minutes. By comparing the signals to a database of healthy brain patterns, the device can determine the likelihood of structural damage or functional impairment, both of which are key to diagnosing TBI.

There are currently about 150 systems in use across the United States at a cost of $15,000 each. But a new model, which may become available as early as next year, is planned to have additional capabilities (such as diagnosing Parkinson’s and stroke) and cost even less. Applications for the device extend from emergency and urgent care clinics to sports teams and military units.