BRIN's Vein Detector Uses AI to Visualize Blood Vessels

Indonesian researchers have created an innovative device that uses artificial intelligence to help medical staff find veins, a common challenge during procedures like blood draws or IV insertions. Developed by the National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN), the Vein Finder aims to make these tasks easier and more accurate.

The Vein Finder combines optical technology, image processing, and deep learning. It works by shining near-infrared light onto the skin, which is absorbed by hemoglobin in the blood. This creates a subtle color difference that highlights the veins. A special camera captures this reflection, and a Raspberry Pi mini-computer processes the image using a Convolutional Neural Network algorithm to display a clear map of the veins.

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I am someone whose veins are difficult to find, so I often get multiple needle pricks in the emergency room.

According to lead researcher Rini Khamimatul Ula, the inspiration for the device came from personal difficulties in finding veins. "I am someone whose veins are difficult to find, so I often get multiple needle pricks in the emergency room," she explained. The AI integration not only visualizes the veins but also helps determine their depth and width, ensuring safer targeting.

A key advantage of the Vein Finder is its adaptability to Indonesia's diverse population. Unlike similar devices that may not perform as well on darker skin tones, this technology is designed to work effectively across various skin pigments. The researchers have already secured patents and copyrights for the Vein Finder and have tested it on patients aged from teenagers to 40s, with ongoing efforts to refine the design for greater compactness and real-time usability.

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The system can work on various skin pigments to be more suitable for the needs of healthcare professionals in Indonesia.