New patch could detect stroke
Scientists have developed a patch with the potential to monitor stroke activity in patients by measuring blood oxygen levels in real time.
The device is similar to a pulse oximeter, which is clipped onto a finger, and has been developed by investigators at the Mayo Clinic.
Known as a frontal near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS), the technology may offer physicians a safe and cost effective means by which to monitor patients to prevent the reoccurrence of stroke.
Dr William Freeman, senior investigator on the study and associate professor of neurology at the Mayo Clinic, commented: "About one-third of stroke patients in the hospital suffer another stroke, and we have few options for constantly monitoring patients for such recurrences."
Through extensive test, Mayo researchers hope that the patch will be an antidote to this problem, thus reducing mortality rates and aiding recovery.
The device could potentially also be rolled out to detect those at a high risk of stroke.
Find the nearest Barchester care home.
Find your nearest Barchester care home
With over 200 care homes in the UK, there's always a Barchester care home near you.