New traumatic brain injury test is 'game-changing,' concussion experts say • 7 min read What is a concussion? A concussion is an injury to the brain caused by physical contact. STOCK PHOTO/Getty Images In a world first, a newly authorized handheld device will allow doctors to detect traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) in under 15 minutes, potentially saving lives by dramatically shortening the time it takes to properly diagnose the issue. The device is made by Abbott, a medical device company based in the United States. “This is a huge milestone that has never been done before -- a blood test for the brain,” said Dr. Beth McQuiston, medical director for Abbott’s diagnostic businesses. “Until now, health care providers have needed to rely on subjective measurements for TBIs, but we finally have a more objective tool to help evaluate patients.”