System and method for detection of hematoma
Inventors
Ben Dor, Baruch • Chance, Britton
Assignees
Publication Number
US-8060189-B2
Publication Date
2011-11-15
Expiration Date
2026-05-05
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Abstract
A system and method for determining brain hematoma including a handheld device for emitting and detecting radiation with a removable light guide assembly. A method for determining a brain hematoma condition that includes determining optical density of various regions of the brain using near infrared spectroscopy.
Core Innovation
The invention provides a system and method for detecting brain hematoma conditions using a handheld device that emits and detects radiation via near infrared spectroscopy (NIRS), specifically exploiting differences in absorbance between intravascular and extravascular blood. Equipped with a removable light guide assembly, the system determines optical density at defined regions of the brain, enabling detection of both unilateral and bilateral hematoma conditions by analyzing the optical density differences across brain areas.
The problem addressed is the inability to rapidly, non-invasively, and accurately detect intracranial hematomas in environments lacking immediate access to CT scanning, such as in rural, underdeveloped, or battlefield settings. Traditional neurological examinations are insufficient due to their unreliability in detecting hematomas, and existing imaging technologies are not always available when prompt diagnosis is critical for favorable outcomes.
The core innovation centers on a diagnostic method and device that quantifies optical density at multiple head locations, compares these measurements to predefined ranges, and indicates the presence, possibility, or absence of hematoma based on these comparisons. The device includes features such as a processor to control and interpret measurements, a light source and detector pair, and a removable light guide assembly to facilitate use and sterility between patients. The method also supports detailed localization through contour mapping, allowing for expedited field triage and potential immediate intervention.
Claims Coverage
There are four main independent inventive features found in the claims.
Bilateral hematoma detection by comparing optical density differences between brain regions
A system comprising memory and at least one processor configured to: - Determine optical density at multiple brain locations on both the right and left sides of a patient's head - Compute a first optical density difference between two locations on the right side and a second optical density difference between two locations on the left side - Indicate bilateral hematoma based on comparison of the two optical density differences with a predetermined optical density difference range
Hematoma condition diagnosis via comparison of optical density differences at contralateral head locations
A system with memory and processor operable to: - Determine optical density difference for at least one contralateral pair of head locations - Compare the determined difference to a predetermined range - Diagnose hematoma condition based on this relationship - Includes a handheld probe having a base with a radiation detector, light source, and a removable light guide assembly with aligned detector and source light guides
Handheld probe-based hematoma detection system with light guide assembly and processor for indicating hematoma
A system comprising: - A handheld probe with a base including a source of infrared light and a detector - A light guide assembly secured to the base, having a source light guide to transmit light to tissue and a detector light guide to transmit detected light from tissue - A processor linked to the probe, configured to provide instructions and process data, with a display to indicate presence of a hematoma based on characteristics of transmitted light
Handheld device with removable light guide assembly for hematoma detection
A handheld device comprising: - A base with at least one radiation detector and at least one light source - A light guide assembly removably secured to the base by at least one of a friction fit, a sealed securement, or one or more fasteners - The light guide assembly includes at least one detector light guide aligned to the detector and at least one source light guide aligned to the light source
The claims cover systems and devices for non-invasive hematoma detection using optical density measurements, focusing on differential analysis between brain regions, and incorporating a handheld probe with removable light guide assemblies and processor-based analysis for robust and field-deployable diagnosis.
Stated Advantages
Allows non-invasive detection of intracranial hematoma in-situ following traumatic brain injury.
Maximizes patient comfort and operator ease of use while maximizing detection rate and minimizing false alarm rate.
Enables prompt, field-based diagnosis critical for timely triage when comprehensive trauma centers or CT scans are not available.
Provides a disposable or readily replaceable light guide assembly to minimize contamination risk and allow fast preparation between patients.
Portable, handheld, and easy-to-use with a user interface for quick and practical operation in field or emergency settings.
Facilitates immediate detection and localization of hematomas to enable rapid clinical decision-making and potential early intervention.
Documented Applications
Field detection and triage of patients with traumatic brain injuries to rapidly diagnose intracranial hematoma when imaging centers are inaccessible.
Use by paramedics, nurses, or physicians in emergencies, rural healthcare, underdeveloped areas, or battlefield scenarios for quick identification of patients requiring neurosurgical intervention.
Supporting immediate treatment by mapping the location and contour of a hematoma for targeted intervention in trauma settings.
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