Head injury survivors help us understand the brain
A motorbike accident survivor and “miracle patient” are among our first participants to lead the way in a new study that helps us understand how the brain works.
After receiving a record £6.5m grant last year, our neurosurgery team has started using a brain scanning device called Forest 1.
This world-leading research is a partnership between our Trust, Forest Neurotech, and the University of Plymouth, funded by the Advanced Research and Invention Agency (ARIA).
Because ultrasound waves cannot pass through bone, the trial is for patients who have had a piece of their skull removed after an injury.
Two patients spoke to us about the study and why they decided to get involved.
Adam was involved in a severe motorbike accident in Thailand, which left him with a serious bleed on the brain.
Following 12 weeks in a Thai hospital and a long recovery back in the UK, Adam wanted to find a way to help others facing similar challenges.
After discussing the research with his mother, he decided to volunteer for the study to turn his experience into a positive for others.
Adam said:
My mum suggested to me that this could help others with the same injury or condition. I wanted to take part to raise awareness for others who have been through what I have.
Another patient, Andy, from Hornchurch, had a tooth infection which spread to his sinuses and eventually his brain, causing a dangerous abscess.
He underwent emergency surgery here at Queen's in April 2025, and the clinical team initially feared he wouldn't survive and said he was a "miracle patient".
After his incredible recovery, Andy and his family decided to give back to medicine.
Andy's wife Helena said:
We wanted to support the research so it can help improve the condition for others in the future.
During the sessions, the team places the ultrasound device on the area of the head where the bone is missing.
While the ultrasound is active, Andy and Adam completed computer tests, such as matching "smiley" or "happy" faces to words, which helps the team observe how the brain processes different emotions.
The study of around 20 patients aims to deepen our understanding of how the brain has a role in our emotions we feel, how we learn, and how we pay attention to the world around us.
Aimun Jamjoom, Consultant Neurosurgeon and study lead, said:
This is a hugely exciting study that will help deepen our understanding of the human brain using the power of ultrasound.With this technology, we have an opportunity to observe brain activity in extraordinary detail and answer fundamental questions about how our brains work.