EMVision reveals first responder stroke scanner

Brain imaging company EMVision Medical Devices has completed fabrication of the company’s First Responder (Gen 2) Proof of Concept device (pictured).

The First Responder device represents an opportunity to fundamentally transform stroke
and traumatic brain injury outcomes for patients by delivering neurodiagnostic technology directly to the point of care, including in ambulances, according to the company.

The Proof-of-Concept device leverages the principles and mode of operation of EMVision’s bedside emu brain scanner device – it is a lighter and miniaturised version with expanded antennas (28), designed to provide full brain coverage in a single scan.

The device utilises microwaves for detection, and was developed under contract with the Australian Stroke Alliance (ASA) which is funded by the Commonwealth of Australia’s Medical Research Future Fund (MRFF).

It will now be the subject of a series of studies and developments including usability, reliability, software development, functionality and other tests intended to meet international regulatory requirements.

Co-Chair of the Australian Stroke Alliance Professor Geoffrey Donnan said: “Early results are encouraging and the lightweight nature of the EMV device are likely to make it useful in the prehospital stroke environment.”

With an “Ambulance Device Fabrication” milestone achieved. EMVision has submitted the required documentation to the ASA to trigger a further $600,000 non-dilutive milestone payment.

EMVision said there was significant commercial opportunity for pre-hospital brain scanning of medical emergencies, such as suspected stroke.

The device intends to open the door to earlier triage, transfer or treatment decisions, at the
point-of-care, which has potential for substantial positive impact on patient care and healthcare costs.

It is estimated that there are in excess of 60,000 road and air ambulances in the United States alone.

Co-Chair of the Australian Stroke Alliance Professor Stephen Davis said: “We are looking forward to the validation of the sensitivity and specificity for detection of blood in hyperacute stroke patients using the EMV device, against CT scanning, the current gold standard in stroke management.

“The weight of the device – about 10 kilograms – compares extremely favourably to a conventional mobile CT scanner of at least 500 kilograms.”

Further reading:
Medtech innovator explains the rush to save brains – profile of EMVision

Picture: EMVision Medical Devices