ICMR’s handheld device to scan brain , Pg11

Key Highlights:

• The ICMR is offering CEREBO, a portable, non-invasive diagnostic tool for traumatic brain injuries (TBI), especially in rural areas.
• CEREBO uses near-infrared spectroscopy and machine learning to detect intracranial bleeding and edema within a minute.
• The device is safe for infants and pregnant women, and can be operated by paramedical staff with just 30 minutes of training.
• India has the highest incidence of head injuries globally, claiming over 1,00,000 lives annually.

Detailed Insights:

• CEREBO is designed for use in ambulances, trauma centers, rural clinics, and disaster response units to enhance early TBI detection.
• The device was developed through collaboration between ICMR, AIIMS Bhopal, NIMHANS Bengaluru, and Bioscan Research, undergoing clinical validation and regulatory approvals.
• Multi-centre clinical performance evaluation and utility trials were supported by the mPRiDE scheme of the MDMS.
• Early management of traumatic brain injuries is critical because secondary brain injury can increase mortality and disability.
• The ICMR aims to enhance the device’s adoption in tertiary care to accelerate emergency diagnosis and reduce costs.

Scientific/Technical Concepts Involved:

• Near-infrared spectroscopy: A spectroscopic method that uses the near-infrared region of the electromagnetic spectrum.
• Machine learning: A type of artificial intelligence that enables computers to learn from data without being explicitly programmed.
• Intracranial bleeding: Bleeding that occurs inside the skull.
• Edema: Swelling caused by fluid accumulation in body tissues.