HEAD CT
The Head CT is a compact, ambulance-ready imaging device that produces high-resolution 3D brain scans, enabling rapid stroke diagnosis.
DESIGNED BY
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Micro-X LTD
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Monash University Design Health Collab
ENGAGEMENT
MAY 2023 - OCT 2024
STATUS
Undergoing clinical trials
BACKGROUND
Stroke is a leading cause of death and long-term disability in the United States, and the second most common cause of death worldwide. According to the CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention of the United States), someone in the U.S. has a stroke every 40 seconds, and every 3 minutes and 11 seconds, someone dies from one.
While stroke is highly treatable, it is extremely time-sensitive. Early diagnosis and intervention—especially before reaching the hospital—can dramatically reduce death and long-term disability, leading to significantly better recovery. The most effective treatment window is within the first hour after symptoms begin, often referred to as the ‘Golden Hour’. However, there is still no widely accessible, dependable solution for most people in the U.S. and around the world.
The Head CT is a compact imaging system developed for use in ambulances. It features a curved detector and an arc of 21 miniaturized X-ray emitters. This innovative setup produces high-quality 3D images capable of diagnosing both ischaemic and haemorrhagic strokes. Developed in collaboration with paramedics and healthcare professionals, the device focuses heavily on ease of use. It delivers rapid, high-resolution brain scans, has a simple workflow that requires minimal training, and is designed to be cost-effective for emergency medical use.
AWARDS - 2024
ROLE AND RESPONSIBILITIES
I began working on the Head CT project in May 2023. My primary responsibility was addressing the challenge of patient positioning—a particularly complex issue due to the limited space within an ambulance. To tackle this, I designed a positioning device that ensures proper patient alignment during scanning. In addition to this, I was also responsible for designing an interface that could operate the Head CT system
POSITIONING AID DEVICE
The device, characterized by its penguin-shaped design, functions as a headrest as seen in the renders below. When fully deployed, it provides stable support for head CT scans; when not in use, it can be compactly stowed against the wall.
I'm endlessly grateful to my mentors who challenged me, the colleagues who had my back, and the people who shared their time, their feedback, or just a well-timed laugh.
