NSW [New South Wales] Ambulance in Australia is undertaking a pilot trial for the Strokefinder MD100 helmet brain scanner, aimed at transforming the rapid assessment and triage of stroke patients en route to hospital.
Developed by Medfield Diagnostics, the Strokefinder MD100 device is designed to assist in the clinical evaluation and triage of suspected intracranial injuries in acute situations.
Being conducted in the Hunter region, the new trial marks the first frontline use of the Strokefinder helmet technology outside of a hospital setting.
NSW Minister for Regional Health Ryan Park said the innovative trial could expedite stroke diagnosis and treatment, enhancing the chances of recovery during the critical 'golden hour'.
NSW Ambulance Commissioner Dr Dominic Morgan said the technology is capable of performing multiple brain measurements in just 60 seconds.
Dr Morgan added: “This exciting study brings together NSW Ambulance intensive care paramedics, John Hunter Hospital neurologists and the Hunter Medical Research Institute to evaluate the feasibility of the Strokefinder MD100 helmet in pre-hospital care.
“When combined with an innovative an innovative telehealth app, our paramedics on the ground are able to consult with the neurology team in the hospital to optimise the care and overall outcome for the stroke patient.”
The trial is led by John Hunter Hospital Acute Stroke Services neurologist Chris Levi. It involves a close collaboration between clinicians and researchers to assess and refine the stroke detection system and accompanying telehealth app for optimal frontline care.
Its impact was felt by Jack Di Tommaso, a 27-year-old gym owner who experienced an ischaemic stroke.
The Strokefinder MD100 scan was performed on Jack Di Tommaso within the 'golden hour', and his clinical data was captured in the telehealth app.
The collaborative effort between NSW Ambulance, Hunter New England Local Health District, Medfield Diagnostics, Hunter Medical Research Institute, and Titan Neuroscience Research Australia is expected to report the outcomes later in the year.
