Background:
Functional Near-Infrared Spectroscopy (fNIRS) is a growing imaging technique in the medical field. It has advantages of being noninvasive, low-cost, and non-ionizing. In this, near-infrared light is used to assess blood volume and blood oxygenation levels. LiteScan transforms fNIRS capabilities into a wireless, small hand-held device of only 2.3in x 3.6in x 1in (5.84cm x 9.14cm x 2.55cm), suitable for a wide range of medical applications—at the low cost of $175 per unit.

Application:
The main target of LiteScan is to be used by first responders. It can aid in assessment of, for example, a stroke patient to determine severity of the stroke and monitor changes during the ambulance ride. Information can also be sent to the hospital in advance for improved patient care.

LiteScan is also suitable for home use to aid in self-monitoring of various cancer types in at-risk and diagnosed patients—both in early detection and over time after treatment—effectively eliminating the need for frequent hospital visits that may be too spread out to detect tumor development in a timely manner.

Further applications of LiteScan include use with neonates and both home and hospital use to monitor effectiveness of various therapies and drugs where blood volume and/or blood oxygenation are relevant (ex: cerebrovascular ischemia, disseminated intravascular coagulation, peripheral artery disease).

Technology:
LiteScan utilizes a microcontroller and embedded Linux system to allow for real time presentation of processed data to a mobile device via wireless communications. The application for the mobile device allows for meaningful data to be viewed by first responders, doctors, and patients. Embedded Linux also optimizes system memory and battery power, with over 100 hours of use per charge.