A device to help paramedics quickly diagnose strokes using ultrasound
Official title: Transcranial Ultrasound Algorithms and Device for Rapid Stroke Determination by Paramedics
Funded at University of Memphis · NIH-10730722 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is testing a new ultrasound device that helps paramedics quickly find out if someone is having a specific type of stroke called an ischemic stroke, especially when there are big blockages in the blood vessels, so they can get the right treatment faster and improve recovery.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R15 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Memphis NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Memphis, United States) |
| Project start | July 1, 2023 |
| Project end | June 30, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2023 |
| Award (this year) | $413,756 |
| NIH project number | 1R15EB034185-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-10730722 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who are suspected of having a stroke, particularly those showing symptoms of ischemic strokes.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not experiencing a stroke or have other medical conditions unrelated to stroke may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing a new transcranial ultrasound device that allows paramedics to rapidly determine if a patient is experiencing an ischemic stroke, particularly those with large vessel occlusions (LVOs). By using advanced ultrasound technology, the device aims to simplify the process of identifying LVOs, which is crucial for timely treatment. The goal is to reduce the time it takes to deliver life-saving treatments like tPA and thrombectomy, ultimately improving patient outcomes. The project involves creating a customized ultrasound transducer that can effectively map blood flow and detect blockages in the brain.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly improve the speed and accuracy of stroke diagnosis in emergency settings, leading to better treatment outcomes for patients.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in using ultrasound technology for stroke diagnosis, indicating that this approach could be effective.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Memphis
Memphis, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Herickhoff, Carl — University of Memphis
- Study coordinator: Herickhoff, Carl
Related research
Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.
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Visual recovery after stroke using focused ultrasound and immersive VR
A small, patient-friendly study tests whether a gentle, targeted ultrasound therapy plus immersive virtual reality can help people with field-of-view loss after stroke regain visual function.
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Treating central post-stroke pain with targeted ultrasound therapy
A Duke University study is testing a non-invasive, focused ultrasound treatment to reduce pain in people who have CPSP after a stroke.
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Improving imaging techniques to understand small blood vessel functions in stroke patients.
This study is looking at new ways to take detailed pictures of small blood vessels in the brain after a stroke, to see how they work and heal in both younger and older people, with the hope of improving stroke recovery and treatment.
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Stroke prevention with hydroxyurea for children with sickle cell anemia in Nigeria
A multinational, patient-facing study tests whether hydroxyurea can safely prevent first strokes in Nigerian children with sickle cell anemia.
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Music-powered tools to boost blood pressure and stroke prevention for Nigerian youth and their older caregivers
This project uses popular music to help Nigerian youths and their older family members start and stick to blood pressure and stroke prevention habits.
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.