Blink Reflex Apparatus for Objective mTBI Diagnosis
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for diagnosing mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI) are subjective and lack objective, real-time diagnostic tools to accurately assess neurological changes, particularly in athletes, leading to challenges in identifying athletes at risk for long-term complications such as second impact syndrome or chronic traumatic encephalopathy.
Innovation Solution
A device and method using a blink reflex apparatus that stimulates the eyes to measure involuntary responses, such as blink period and pupillary reflex, to objectively detect neurological impairments associated with mTBI, enabling real-time assessment of brain function and potential injuries.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If current diagnostic methods (self-report and neurocognitive testing) are used, then athletes can be evaluated for concussion symptoms, but the diagnosis remains subjective and lacks objective real-time measurement capability
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces subjective mechanical testing procedures with an optical measurement system. The apparatus uses light sources and photodetectors to objectively measure blink reflex parameters (latency, duration, frequency) as indicators of neurological function, eliminating the need for subjective self-reporting and traditional neurocognitive testing.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces blink reflex measurement as an intermediary indicator to assess concussion status. Instead of directly measuring complex neurological function through subjective tests, the system uses the blink reflex as a measurable proxy that objectively reflects brainstem and cortical neurological integrity.
2Loss of time
If traditional neurocognitive testing is used, then cognitive function can be evaluated, but the tests lack real-time capability and cannot provide immediate diagnostic information
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables continuous real-time monitoring of blink reflex parameters during and after concussive events. The system can immediately detect changes in blink latency, duration, or frequency that indicate concussion, providing immediate diagnostic information without the delays inherent in traditional testing protocols.
Solution Approach 2:
The system can be used to establish baseline blink reflex parameters before concussive events occur, allowing for immediate comparison after an event to detect changes. This preliminary baseline establishment enables rapid identification of concussion without waiting for traditional testing.
3Reliability
If subjective diagnostic methods are used, then athletes can report their symptoms, but athletes may hide or underreport symptoms to avoid missing participation time
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs self-service measurement by automatically detecting and recording blink reflex parameters without requiring athlete participation or self-reporting. The automated optical measurement system objectively captures neurological function data regardless of the athlete's intent to report or hide symptoms.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces subjective self-reporting mechanisms with objective automated optical measurement. The system uses light stimulation and photodetection to automatically assess blink reflex parameters, eliminating the possibility of symptom hiding or underreporting while maintaining diagnostic reliability.
4Difficulty of detecting and measuring
If existing diagnostic criteria are used, then concussion identification can be performed, but there are little differences between diagnostic criteria and manifest symptoms making objective measurement difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses blink reflex parameters as an intermediary measurement that bridges the gap between diagnostic criteria and manifest symptoms. By measuring objective physiological parameters (blink latency, duration, frequency) that directly reflect neurological function, the system provides tangible data about brain function changes without relying on subjective symptom reporting.
Solution Approach 2:
The system replaces vague diagnostic criteria with precise optical measurement of blink reflex parameters. The automated measurement of specific physiological parameters (time latency, duration, frequency) provides objective, quantifiable data about neurological function that is easier to detect and measure than general symptom assessment.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The apparatus provides an objective, real-time measurement of neurological function, aiding in the diagnosis of mTBI and monitoring recovery, thereby helping to identify athletes at risk for long-term brain injuries and allowing for safer return to play decisions.
Implementation Method 1
measuring a time period from the stimulus to when the eyes involuntarily respond to the stimulus
Implementation Method 2
measure involuntary responses, such as blink period and pupillary reflex
Data Source
AI summary
A device for measuring eyelid movement in a human subject comprises a housing, at least one stimulator mounted to the housing, and a camera. The at least one stimulator is configured to provide stimulus to one or both eyes of the subject. The camera is configured to collect information related to movement of one or both eyes of the subject. The device also includes a user interface that is configured to control the at least one stimulator and display information collected by the camera.