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Brain Activity Scanner May Identify TBI & PTSD for Veterans

If traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) cannot be diagnosed, they cannot be treated. Unfortunately, those conditions are two of the more difficult to diagnose, which is why they are known as invisible wounds. There is hope, however. A new, high-tech brain scanner is capable of producing comprehensive pictures of brain activity, which will aid in diagnosing such conditions.

The initial study into the machine's capabilities included 55 veterans and soldiers, ranging in age from 18 to 45, who had been previously diagnosed with TBI rated mild to moderate. Many of the participants were Marines who suffered improvised explosive device blasts, which are some of the most commonly reported injuries. In addition to helping diagnose TBI, researchers discovered the scanner is also capable of detecting PTSD.

The study's results were so positive, the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) extended the study 4 years. The extended study will focus more on the cause of PTSD, as opposed to just being able to diagnose the disease. Seeing the injury is just the beginning and is likely very different than treating TBI and PTSD. Researchers are convinced the brain can recover from TBIs.

The scanner is completely non-invasive and operates by scanning electrical activity in the person's brain tissue and "passively" recording that activity. Where low-frequency waves are found, brain tissue is usually found to be damaged. 

If you are a disabled veteran who has been denied disability compensation or have not yet applied for benefits from the VA, a South Florida disability attorney from LaVan & Neidenberg is ready to help. To learn if you are entitled to certain programs and benefits contact our veterans disability rights firm today - 1-888-234-5758.