Doctors at King George’s Medical University (KGMU) have developed a portable, screen-free handheld device that can quickly detect internal bleeding in trauma patients. The innovation has the potential to improve emergency care, particularly during the critical “golden hour” following a road accident or severe injury, when timely diagnosis can save lives. The device has been developed by Prof. Prem Raj Singh, Chief Medical Superintendent and trauma surgeon, and Prof. Amiya Agarwal, Medical Superintendent at KGMU.
Designed for Rapid Trauma Assessment
The handheld probe is specifically designed for trauma patients and can identify abnormal fluid accumulation in the abdomen, including internal bleeding that may not be visible during an initial examination. Unlike external wounds, internal haemorrhage is difficult to detect without specialised imaging equipment. As a result, many critically injured patients experience delays in receiving appropriate treatment. By enabling rapid assessment at the point of care, the new device could help healthcare professionals identify life-threatening injuries much earlier.
Simple to Use in Emergency Situations
One of the device’s key advantages is its simplicity. Unlike conventional ultrasound systems, the handheld device does not require a display screen or a trained radiologist. Instead, emergency responders simply place the probe over the patient’s abdomen. The device then analyses the presence of abnormal fluid and immediately alerts the user if internal bleeding is suspected. Furthermore, it operates on both battery and electricity, making it suitable for use in ambulances, district hospitals, rural healthcare centres and other resource-limited settings. The developers say the device can be used effectively by ambulance drivers, paramedics and emergency medical personnel with only minimal training.
Addressing a Critical Gap in Trauma Care
According to Prof. Prem Raj Singh, internal blood loss often remains undetected because it is not externally visible. “Many trauma patients suffer internal blood loss that is not immediately visible. Early detection can help healthcare workers decide whether a patient requires urgent transfer to a specialised trauma centre,” he said. Doctors estimate that 30% to 35% of trauma patients experience internal bleeding, making rapid diagnosis essential for improving survival rates.
Supports Early Referral to Trauma Centres
In addition to detecting hidden injuries, the device can also be used for serial monitoring, allowing healthcare teams to assess whether internal bleeding is worsening over time. Prof. Amiya Agarwal noted that the innovation could be especially valuable in smaller hospitals that lack advanced diagnostic facilities. He explained that the device can help emergency teams quickly identify high-risk patients and ensure timely referral to specialised trauma centres, thereby reducing treatment delays and improving clinical outcomes.
Patent Filed for Indigenous Innovation
The inventors have already filed a patent covering both the concept and the design of the handheld device. Although the patent application has been published, final approval is still pending. As reported by msn.com, once commercialised, the indigenous innovation could become an important addition to India’s emergency healthcare system by enabling fast, affordable and accessible detection of internal bleeding, particularly in pre-hospital and rural settings where advanced imaging equipment is unavailable.