Ultrasonic sensor to quantify brain pulsatility

摘要

Brain pulsatility is defined as the change of cerebral volume over the change in mean arterial pressure. During modern open-brain surgery, pulsatility is qualitatively monitored to determine the cerebral condition. However, related to the lack of quantitative measurements for pulsatility, numerous complications are associated with over/under anesthesiologic compensation. The CerebroSense device provides a tool for real-time, noninvasive, and quantitative measurements of brain functioning to reduce the risk for surgical complications. Utilizing an ultrasonic sensor and LabVIEW programming, the device can monitor a pulsating brain through a craniotomy within the operating room. Through extensive testing with various media within a proof of concept device, the team has made significant advancements with the CerebroSense device and looks to perform additional testing.