Handheld Brain Scanners help to treat newborns

Scientists at the University of London, UK, are working on a handheld brain scanner that helps treat and save many lives of premature and newborn babies.

The MONSTIR scanner will help to avoid moving critically ill children to conventional scanners. This may involve giving them sedatives, which also add to their danger.

The data provided by the scanner can be used to diagnose and evaluate problems such as cerebral hemorrhage. It also helps the doctor determine the best treatment possible.

MONSTIR works by using a technique called optical imaging to produce images that show how the brain is working. Light is given through the body tissues, then analyzed by computer. A cap fitted with 32 light detectors and 32 low intensity laser light sources was placed above the baby's head.

A software that uses information to create three-dimensional images. This image can show which part of the brain is receiving oxygen, where there is blood, and evidence of brain damage.

Q.HUANG