What is CEREBO?
Recent advances in brain injury diagnosis have introduced CEREBO, a novel hand-held device designed to detect traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) quickly and safely. Developed by leading Indian research institutions, CEREBO offers a portable, non-invasive, and cost-effective alternative to traditional imaging tools. This innovation aims to improve early detection and treatment outcomes, especially in resource-limited settings.
Development and Collaboration
CEREBO was created through a partnership involving the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), Medical Device & Diagnostics Mission Secretariat (MDMS), AIIMS Bhopal, NIMHANS Bengaluru, and Bioscan Research. The device utilises advanced near-infrared spectroscopy combined with machine learning to identify intracranial bleeding and brain swelling. It has undergone rigorous clinical validation and regulatory approval, confirming its accuracy and safety.
Features and Usage
This portable tool provides colour-coded, radiation-free results within one minute. It is safe for use on infants and pregnant women. The device is designed for use by paramedics and unskilled personnel, making it ideal for ambulances, rural clinics, trauma centres, and disaster response units. It facilitates rapid triage and decision-making where CT or MRI scans are unavailable or delayed.
Significance
TBIs occur due to sudden head trauma disrupting brain function. They range from mild concussions to severe injuries causing long-term disabilities. In India, TBIs cause high morbidity and mortality, with road traffic accidents accounting for 60% of cases. Early and accurate diagnosis is crucial to prevent complications like brain bleeding or swelling. Traditional methods such as the Glasgow Coma Scale are subjective and imaging is costly and infrastructure-dependent.
Clinical Validation and Impact
Multi-centre trials at major trauma and neurosurgical centres demonstrated CEREBO’s diagnostic accuracy and time-saving benefits. Post-market surveillance showed effective user adoption and integration into emergency care pathways. Health technology assessments recommend its use in tertiary care to optimise triage, reduce imaging costs, and accelerate CT scan utilisation.
Challenges in TBI Diagnosis
Mild TBIs often go undetected due to subtle symptoms and lack of visible injury. Monitoring neurological status in the first 24-48 hours post-injury is vital. Long-term effects include cognitive deficits, emotional disorders, physical disabilities, and increased risk of neurodegenerative diseases. Affordable, accessible diagnostic tools like CEREBO can bridge gaps in timely care.
Future Prospects
The device is positioned for global adoption in emergency and military healthcare systems. Its portability and ease of use make it suitable for underserved and remote populations. Continued research and technological refinement may expand its applications and improve brain injury management worldwide.
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