Portable video-oculography device for implementation in sideline concussion assessments: a prototype.

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Medical Devices
• Sports Medicine

Background:

• Concussion poses a significant health risk, potentially causing severe brain dysfunction.
• Current diagnostic methods for concussion lack sensitivity and reliability for subtle brain function changes.
• Objective assessment tools are needed for sideline evaluation of head trauma.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a low-cost, portable eye tracking device for concussion detection.
• To evaluate the device's utility in assessing ocular motor function post-head trauma.
• To support clinical decision-making for mild Traumatic Brain Injury (mTBI) and return-to-play protocols.

Main Methods:

• Development of a portable, cost-effective eye tracking system.
• Evaluation of ocular motor function as a biomarker for concussion.
• On-site testing for rapid assessment of head trauma severity.

Main Results:

• Preliminary data indicate high accuracy in concussion detection.
• The device allows for rapid test administration, suitable for sideline use.
• The system demonstrates potential for monitoring mTBI and informing return-to-play decisions.

Conclusions:

• The developed eye tracking device shows promise as a sensitive and reliable tool for concussion assessment.
• This technology can be valuable for immediate sideline evaluation of head injuries in sports.
• Further large-scale clinical trials are warranted to validate the device's efficacy.