Classic objective and quantitative tests for concussion have been limited to electrophysiological and brain imaging methods like Electroencephalography (EEG) and Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) respectively. However, these have failed in providing an accurate prognosis for concussion. Both EEG and MRI lack spatial and temporal resolution and are extremely costly, invasive, as well as time, resource and energy-consuming. Our lab has aimed to further advance technology to allow for more accurate methods and devices to assist in diagnosing and managing concussions and long-term brain health.
Eye-Tracking & Visual Acuity
Tracking scanning laser ophthalmoscope (TSLO) Retitrak device
The TSLO device is a non-contact examination performed by directing and scanning a beam of low power light into the eye. The light exposure is within documented safe limits set by the American National Standards Institute (ANSI). The TSLO is designed for multiple field sizes and wavelengths, and has been used in our lab to further develop evidence for use as high-resolution eye-tracking for head injuries.
Pupillometer
The NeurOptics® PLR®-3000 Pupillometer offers researchers quantitative infrared technology to objectively and accurately measure pupil size and dynamics. The system acquires images using self- contained infrared and visible illumination sources and a digital camera, and it analyzes the captured image data, such as the change in pupil diameter and duration of reaction to the light stimulus.
I-Portal Portable Assessment System (I-PAS)
The DX200 googles is a portable, lightweight, and easy-to-use system that integrates the world-leading eye-tracking technology with a compact, head-mounted 2D and 3D stimulus display. This FDA-cleared device includes tests that are critical in identifying subtle impairments after a brain injury. Spryson’s Brain Health Assessment includes a comprehensive menu of oculomotor, cognitive, vestibular and reaction time tests, including (but not limited to) spontaneous nystagmus, smooth pursuits, vergence pursuit, vergence steps, predicted saccades, anti-saccades, and dual eye movement/motor tasks. The Spryson Platform allows clinicians and researchers the ability to compare individual results over time and to benchmark against FDA cleared normative data.
Driving Simulator
It is intuitive that after a concussion, an individual’s ability to drive may be impaired. However, there are no guidelines for driving following a concussion and driving performance is rarely assessed following this injury. Moreover, little is known about the effects of concussion on driving performance and whether driving exacerbates symptoms after injury. The SimCraft® simulator provides a virtual-reality type environment complete with motion that mimics the neurocognitive demands required for on-road driving. It utilizes the virtual gaming system, iRacing, to experience simulations of track racing based on real-life NASCAR and Formula 1 tracks and cars. Objective data, such as speed, braking/accelerator use and time, best lap, slowest lap, and reaction time can assist researchers in assessing driving performance after a concussion in a controlled environment.
Blood Biomarkers
There is emerging evidence for use of blood biomarkers for chronic effects and acute recovery from concussions or head impacts.