emu Bedside Neurodiagnostic Device

The EMU has been under continuous development for over 15 years to address the urgent need for rapid, portable brain imaging for stroke diagnosis. The project has faced significant challenges in ensuring diagnostic efficiency, repeatability, and production viability due to its high complexity. Developing EMU involved optimising non-invasive microwave imaging technology to provide reliable adjunct diagnostic information that distinguishes between ischemic and hemorrhagic strokes. Achieving consistent manufacturing standards while ensuring clinical efficacy has been a critical goal.

The EMU addresses the need for rapid, portable brain imaging for stroke diagnosis. Over 15 years, it evolved from microwave imaging research to a proof-of-concept device, validated in early trials. Design, usability, and performance improvements followed. A recent multi-site clinical trial supported AI algorithm development using stroke data. Challenges included diagnostic accuracy, repeatability, and production viability. Now approaching commercial release, EMU has overcome key technical and clinical hurdles. It is currently in validation trials in Australia and the U.S., marking a critical step toward market launch planned for 2026.

The EMU is a portable, cost-effective tool that supports stroke diagnosis where traditional imaging is inaccessible. It serves as an adjunct or alternative, particularly in rural and regional areas, enhancing diagnostic reach and speed. Using non-ionising microwave technology, just 10% of a mobile phone’s power provides radiation-free imaging. Stroke affects 1 in 4 adults, with 60% of survivors left permanently disabled. Early diagnosis can save 20 million brain cells every 10 minutes. EMU is currently in clinical validation trials in Australia and the U.S., representing the final step before its 2026 commercial launch.

The EMU incorporates several innovative design features aimed at improving the efficiency, accuracy, and accessibility of stroke diagnosis. Portability: Unlike traditional imaging systems, EMU is compact and easily transportable, enabling bedside and pre-hospital use in both clinical and emergency settings. Bring the scanner to the patient, not the patient to the scanner. Non-Invasive Microwave Imaging: Utilises non-ionising microwave signals (10% of the power level of a mobile phone) to enable safe, repeatable scanning without radiation exposure. Rapid Imaging Process: Delivers adjunct diagnostic information within minutes, enhancing decision-making speed, particularly in acute stroke situations. Optimised Antenna Arrays: Refined over years of development to improve signal transmission, detection, and the accuracy of image reconstruction.