EMVision’s positive results in stroke detection

Medical imaging manufacturer EMVision Medical Devices has reported positive interim analysis from the latest clinical trials of its lightweight stroke imager.

The multi-site clinical trials were focused on developing EMVision’s neurodiagnostic AI algorithms to aid in the diagnosis of suspected haemorrhagic or ischaemic stroke.

EMVision is one of two Australian companies developing lightweight imaging devices that can be fitted to ambulances under contract with the Australian Stroke Alliance.

While Micro-X’s approach utilises tiny X-ray emitters in a mini CT scanner, EMVision’s system utilises microwaves to guide early diagnosis and treatment.

Hospital-based CT scans, CT Angiogram, CT Perfusion or MRI are normally used to determine the stroke type and hence treatment needed, introducing delays in treatment.

In Stage 2 of EMVision’s pre-validation trial, a total of 180 patients with stroke like symptoms were enrolled at Liverpool Hospital, Royal Melbourne and Princess Alexandra Hospital Brisbane.

75 patients had confirmed ischaemic strokes and 105 non-ischaemia cases, 67 stroke mimics and 20 transient ischaemic attacks (TIA).

Principal investigator at Royal Melbourne Hospital Dr Angela Dos Santos said: “The positive interim results for ischaemia detection, considered alongside those previously for haemorrhage detection, illustrate the technology’s evolving capability in addressing two of the most pressing questions at acute suspected stroke presentatio.

“(These are) is there a stroke, and if so is it haemorrhagic or ischaemic?

“Timely answering of these questions allow the most effective care pathway to be activated as early as possible.”

The neurodiagnostic capabilities shown in the analysis continue to demonstrate the potential of the EMVision technology to significantly improve the diagnosis, care, and outcomes for both haemorrhagic and ischaemic stroke patients, according to the company.

EMVision CEO Scott Kirkland said: “The ability of our technology to also detect hyperacute and acute ischaemic cases in this cross validation interim analysis is incredibly exciting for our team, our clinical collaborators, and most importantly, what this may mean for the improvement of care pathways and outcomes for future stroke patients.”

Further reading:
Micro-X miniature CT scanner to enter clinical trials

Picture: EMVision Medical Devices