Rapid Competency in NIR-Based Neuroimaging: Training Non-Experts for Head Trauma Triage

ObjectiveTo evaluate whether novice, non-specialist operators can rapidly learn to use a handheld near-infrared (NIR) head scanner and maintain scan quality after brief training, supporting its use for point-of-care triage when computed tomography is unavailable or delayed. MethodsThirty-two right-handed adults with no prior NIR experience received a brief standardized training session ([~]2 minutes) on the ArcheOptix NIRD(R) device, which detects intracranial hemorrhage by tracking hemoglobin absorption during guided scalp scans. Operators then completed two full-head scans on a healthy volunteer: an initial competency assessment (Scan 1) and a follow-up assessment after one day without refresher training (Scan 2). Performance metrics included total scan time, frequency of repeat scans prompted by loss of contact or light leaks, and mean scanpath time as an index of handling efficiency and consistency. Scan quality was evaluated using Lift on dark and Noise on dark indices. User experience was measured after each scan with the 10-item System Usability Scale (SUS, 0-100). Within-participant changes were analyzed with paired t tests or Wilcoxon signed-rank tests. ResultsAll operators completed both sessions. Median performance improved from Scan 1 to Scan 2, with total scan time decreasing from 5 min 27 s to 2 min 53 s. The proportion of "Excellent" scans (<5 minutes) increased from 50% to 84%, and "Poor" scans (>10 minutes) fell to zero. Repeat scans per session declined from 38 to 24, and mean scanpath time shortened while becoming more consistent. Lift on dark and Noise on dark remained stable, indicating no degradation in signal quality as operators worked faster. SUS scores improved from 69.4 to 76.5, reflecting higher perceived ease of use and confidence. ConclusionsAfter minimal training, novice operators achieved rapid, reliable NIR scans with faster performance, fewer repeat scans, stable signal quality, and improved usability ratings. This work shows that portable NIR can practically complement CT by helping prioritize transport and focus scarce imaging resources in emergency, sideline, and remote head trauma triage.