FDA approves device to detect concussions better
Posted in Accident & Injury on January 10, 2019
After a car accident, fall or collision while playing sports, one of the main concerns victims and medical workers have is whether a person has a concussion. A concussion is a traumatic brain injury that can cause some brain damage and chemical changes, even when it is minor. As such, properly identifying a concussion as quickly as possible is vital.
Recently, the Food and Drug Administration approved a device to make concussion detection faster and more accurate. The device is Oculogica’s EyeBox and it could change how, where and when we test for concussions.
Overcoming testing limitations
Detecting a concussion has limitation. Some people misinterpret symptoms of a head injury; others might manipulate test answers to avoid a brain injury diagnosis. There are also constraints when it comes to the tests themselves. Many are subjective and rely on a doctor’s individual judgment.
The new test, however, tracks a person’s eye movement when tracking an image on a screen. The device’s inventor says that when a person has a concussion, he or she will exhibit discrepancies when tracking a moving object. The EyeBox allows doctors to identify the discrepancies to diagnose a concussion.
Where can I get an EyeBox?
The invention and the clearance by the FDA are certainly promising. And people are eager to see EyeBoxes in schools, football fields and even in people’s homes.
However, so far, the devices are for commercial use only. Only physicians will have and use them.
That said, while consumers cannot get an EyeBox of their own, it can be reassuring to know that the technology is available.
Seeking medical attention after a collision
If you or a loved one is in an accident, a concussion will likely be a major concern. So are broken bones, back injuries and emotional trauma. To properly diagnose these and other serious injuries after an accident, it is crucial to seek medical attention after events involving a blow to the head.