Cambridge researchers Develop ’Swimming Cap’ to Monitor Brain-Injured Babies
CAMBRIDGE, UK – A novel monitoring device, resembling a swimming cap, is offering new hope for babies at risk of or suffering from brain injury. Developed by researchers at the University of Cambridge, the non-invasive technology aims to provide continuous, real-time assessment of brain activity, potentially leading to earlier diagnosis and intervention.
The device, currently undergoing clinical trials, uses sensors to detect subtle changes in cerebral blood flow – an indicator of brain health. existing methods often require invasive procedures or are limited to hospital settings. This portable, wearable technology could revolutionize how at-risk infants are monitored, both in hospitals and at home, and potentially identify hidden brain injuries.
“Currently, we rely on visual assessments and, in certain specific cases, more invasive monitoring techniques,” explains Dr. andreas Joannides, lead researcher on the project and co-director of the NIHR HealthTech Research Center in Brain Injury. “This device offers the potential for continuous, objective data, allowing us to intervene earlier and potentially improve outcomes for thes vulnerable babies.”
the trial includes healthy term babies like Theo, whose mother, Stani Georgieva, and partner Thomas Starnes, both scientists, believe in the importance of contributing to medical advancements. “His dad and I are both scientists and when Theo grows up he’ll be able to take advantage of all of the advancements that have been made through research,so we felt it was important for him to be a little part of that understanding,” says Ms. Georgieva.
The NIHR HealthTech Research Centre in brain Injury is providing funding and expertise to help roll out the device across the NHS if the study proves prosperous. Researchers anticipate a product ready for wider evaluation within three to five years, wiht the potential to not only monitor babies with known problems but also serve as a screening tool for those at risk. “Cost permitting, it could not only monitor babies with a known problem, but also be a screening tool to help identify others who might potentially be at risk,” Dr. Joannides added.
