Ceribell Secures FDA Breakthrough Device Designation for LVO Stroke Detection
Sunnyvale, Calif.—January 05, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Ceribell, Inc. (Nasdaq: CBLL), a medical technology innovator, has announced that the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has granted Breakthrough Device Designation for its Large Vessel Occlusion (LVO) stroke detection monitor. This device aims to enhance detection and monitoring of LVO strokes within hospital settings using advanced electroencephalography (EEG) technology.
Overview of the Breakthrough Device Designation
The LVO stroke detection monitor represents a pivotal advancement for Ceribell, utilizing their existing hardware, coupled with an AI-powered algorithm to accurately interpret EEG signals. This designation is a testament to Ceribell's commitment to expanding its point-of-care EEG brain monitoring technology.
- First-in-class monitor: Designed specifically for hospital use.
- AI integration: Utilizes advanced algorithms for rapid LVO stroke detection.
- Recent FDA clearances: Built upon previous approvals for detecting seizures and delirium.
The Urgent Need for Timely Stroke Detection
In the United States, nearly 800,000 strokes occur each year, with LVO strokes representing significant medical emergencies. These strokes are associated with higher morbidity and mortality rates, contributing to approximately 62% of post-stroke dependence and a staggering 96% of post-stroke deaths.
Timely detection of LVO strokes is crucial, as each minute saved can result in a week of disability-free life. This is particularly vital for patients experiencing in-hospital strokes, which differ in nature from community-onset strokes that often receive immediate emergency responses.
Challenges in In-Hospital Stroke Management
Research shows that stroke detection in hospital settings is frequently delayed, leading to worse outcomes for patients, who face about three times higher mortality rates compared to those with community-onset strokes. Up to 17% of strokes occur while patients are already admitted to hospitals.
Dr. Chitra Venkatasubramanian, a Clinical Professor of Neurology and Neurosurgery, emphasizes the challenges posed by complex patient conditions that complicate stroke assessments. “A tool that continuously monitors brain function and promptly alerts the care team would allow us to intervene sooner and improve patient outcomes,” she stated.
Significance of the FDA Designation
The Breakthrough Device Designation underscores Ceribell's potential to revolutionize LVO stroke detection compared to current care standards. Jane Chao, Ph.D., co-founder and CEO of Ceribell, remarked, “At a time when minutes matter, the Ceribell System can provide accurate and timely detection of LVO strokes for this vulnerable patient population.” This initiative further solidifies Ceribell’s mission to establish EEG as a critical vital sign necessary for optimal brain care.