Rapid Detection and Initial Treatment of Life-Threatening Subdural Hematoma in a Sheep Model
Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is the leading cause of death and disability in people under 40 worldwide. There is an unmet need for detection and treatment of life-threatening TBI when computed tomography (CT) scanners and neurosurgeons are unavailable. We developed a new handheld frequency-domain multidetector infrared hemorrhage detection device. Using the new device, military pre-hospital medics required <4 minutes to detect life-threatening subdural hematoma in a sheep model. We developed a second device that allows non-neurosurgeons to safely create a burr hole and partially remove clotted subdural blood. In sheep, the treatment device reduced intracranial pressure within 20 minutes, and improved post-anesthesia blinded neurological outcomes. With human use adaptation, these devices could allow rapid detection and initial treatment of some life-threatening TBIs in challenging situations.