Pupilometer

The Problem

The most important observation regarding the neurological status of patients who are critically ill is the reaction of the pupils to light. For those who are unconscious it can be used to localise neurological damage; an abnormally sized pupil indicates brain dysfunction. Measurement of pupil reaction also aids in the assessment of the autonomous nervous system and the investigation of pharmaceutical agents. Nevertheless, pupil response remains the only vital sign that is still measured using a subjective method.

The Solution

The Regional Medical Physics Department have developed a hand-held portable instrument that can automatically measure and record the pupil state. The new device removes the subjective aspect of the test and allows clinical and paramedic staff to perform this diagnostic assessment in all conditions and on both conscious and unconscious patients. The ranging mechanism and pupil detection algorithms are protected by patents GB2442621, GB2433587, EU1587414 and US7618143.

Benefit to the NHS

NICE guidelines for head injury suggest that the observation of patients throughout their hospital episode is best practice. Pupil size and reactivity is an important part of observation, however it remains a subjective test. The high level of inter-observer variability requires a second member of staff to confirm deterioration. The guidelines suggest evidence that the skill of staff on general wards may not be sufficient, thus The Royal College of Surgeons suggested dedicated observation wards for patients with head trauma. The pupilometer would enable the objective measurement of pupil size and reactivity throughout the patient’s hospital episode.

For further information please contact Louise Shaw on 0191 5164000 or email louise.shaw@nhsinnovationsnorth.org.uk

24/Feb/2010

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