Emerging HealthTech Gaps Identified in Paediatric Neurological Trauma

NEW research has identified 39 emerging technologies for paediatric neurological trauma, revealing a technology pipeline dominated by assessment and diagnostics while prevention, rehabilitation and daily participation remain comparatively underdeveloped. 

39 Emerging Technologies Identified 

A horizon scanning study assessed emerging digital, device and diagnostic technologies for children and young people aged 28 days to 18 years with suspected or confirmed neurological trauma affecting the brain, spine or nervous system. 

The researchers identified 39 relevant technologies across clinical trials, funding sources and industry news. The technologies were grouped into six areas: cognitive function, brain health, eye movements, mobility and movement, daily participation, and healthcare delivery. 

Of the 39 technologies, 19 supported initial diagnosis and assessment, while nine focused on monitoring ongoing symptoms and 13 on rehabilitation. Five technologies were designed for use across the care pathway, while one was intended to inform future research. 

Innovation Focuses on Assessment 

Cognitive function represented the largest technology cluster, with 10 technologies identified. These included digital rehabilitation platforms and devices for assessment and monitoring. 

Several technologies also targeted brain function, brain injury, bleeding, pressure and intracranial lesions, while three focused on eye movements for concussion assessment or diagnosis. Technologies supporting mobility and upper or lower limb function were also identified. 

However, only three technologies were designed to support daily participation. These included tools for monitoring activity and sleep, managing everyday challenges and helping children, young people or their parents coordinate care. 

Only one identified technology focused on preventing brain injury during sports-related impacts. 

Prevention And Rehabilitation Gaps Remain 

The researchers said the findings indicated that innovation for paediatric neurological trauma remained relatively small compared with adult populations, despite the potentially lifelong consequences of neurological injury. 

Only 12 of the 39 technologies had regulatory approval at the time of data extraction. Most were designed to directly benefit children and young people, while others primarily supported healthcare professionals or enabled joint use by patients, parents and professionals. 

The authors highlighted particular gaps in technologies supporting prevention, long-term rehabilitation and participation in daily life after hospitalisation. They suggested that further research and targeted investment could help extend innovation beyond initial assessment and diagnosis. 

The study also demonstrated how horizon scanning could provide early intelligence for policymakers, practitioners and commissioners, helping identify emerging technologies and areas where innovation may otherwise remain limited. 

Reference  

Eastaugh CH et al. Identifying new and emerging device, diagnostic and digital technologies for paediatric neurological trauma. BMJ Innov. 2026. [Epub ahead of print].