Neuroguard

From Concept to Clinic: How Neuroguard™ is Redefining Trauma Care

Born from frontline ambulance experience, Neuroguard™ is a pioneering medical device designed to reduce secondary brain injury in trauma patients. Created to solve a critical gap in pre-hospital care, the idea has grown into a functional prototype, gaining industry recognition and preparing for clinical trials, thanks in part to a close partnership with Innovate Product Design.

The Spark

In emergency trauma care, there’s a crucial need to elevate a patient’s head by 30 degrees to reduce intracranial pressure, especially in cases of suspected brain injury. Yet existing methods can’t do this safely without compromising spinal immobilisation. This gap was evident on the frontline, where repeated real-world cases highlighted the absence of a suitable solution. That’s when the idea for Neuroguard™ was born.

The Journey with Innovate

With only a rough sketch and clinical insight to start with, the team behind Neuroguard™ turned to Innovate Product Design. Collaborating closely with designers George and Sam, they moved quickly from concept to a tangible prototype. Innovate provided expert guidance across key areas; refining the concept, developing initial CAD visuals, and offering intellectual property support. This helped the team secure a UK design registration, file for patents, and protect the Neuroguard™ trademark both in the UK and internationally. More than just design work, Innovate's structured process and practical advice created a roadmap for development, funding, and future partnerships.

The Big Win

Neuroguard™ has already achieved significant milestones:

• Winner of MedTech Innovation of the Year 2025 (Southern Enterprise Awards)

• Finalist in the AXA/Evening Standard Angel Startup Awards

• Showcased at major events like the Emergency Services Show 2025

• Strong early engagement from ambulance services and clinical stakeholders

With a working prototype now developed, the team is advancing through regulatory pathways and preparing for clinical trials with NHS ambulance services and air ambulance charities.

What’s Next?

The journey is far from over. The team is focused on completing final designs, securing UKCA/CE approval, and launching the device through early adoption in UK emergency medical services, before scaling internationally.

"Working with Innovate has been a valuable part of our journey. George and Sam helped take a ‘back of a fag packet’ idea and bring it to life with structure, clarity, and expert design support. Their insight accelerated our progress and gave us the foundation to move forward with confidence."