CEREBO: A Game-Changing Diagnostic Device for Neurological Emergencies

02 Sep, 2025
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What is CEREBO?
CEREBO is a handheld, portable, and non-invasive diagnostic device developed in India through collaboration between ICMR, MDMS, AIIMS Bhopal, NIMHANS Bengaluru, and Bioscan Research. It is designed to detect intracranial bleeding and brain edema in less than a minute, providing a rapid and reliable screening tool for neurological emergencies.

Why is it important?
In regions where CT or MRI scans are unavailable or delayed, CEREBO offers a colour-coded, radiation-free, and cost-effective alternative. It is safe for use on infants and pregnant women and can be operated by both skilled and unskilled personnel, making it particularly useful in rural healthcare and emergency situations.
Where will it be deployed?
The device is intended for use in trauma centres, rural clinics, ambulances, and disaster response units. Its main purpose is to enhance early detection of traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) and improve patient triage, ensuring timely medical intervention.
What are TBIs?
Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBIs) result from sudden trauma to the head, often caused by road accidents, falls, or violent impacts. They range from mild concussions to severe brain damage involving bleeding or swelling. In India alone, nearly 1.5 to 2 million people suffer TBIs every year, making them a leading cause of death and disability.
Why do TBIs often go undetected?
Many TBIs have mild or invisible symptoms in the early stages, leading to delayed diagnosis. Traditional methods like the Glasgow Coma Scale can be unreliable, while CT and MRI scans require costly infrastructure. CEREBO addresses this gap by providing a quick, affordable, and accessible solution.
What are the long-term consequences of TBIs?
If left untreated, TBIs can cause memory loss, emotional disturbances, impaired cognitive ability, neurological disorders, and permanent disability. Early detection with tools like CEREBO is vital to reduce these risks and improve recovery outcomes.