Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research (PGI), Chandigarh, has developed an innovative AI-powered device to diagnose neuropathic pain conditions such as diabetic neuropathy and sciatica. This indigenously developed Quantitative Sensory Testing (QST) device is set to make advanced diagnostics more accessible and affordable across India.

Key Highlights
Affordable AI-Powered QST Device

• Developed by Dr. Babita Ghai from PGI’s Department of Anaesthesia & Intensive Care.

• Reduces the cost of QST devices from ₹40-₹50 lakh (imported versions) to ₹2 lakh.

• Integration of AI and machine learning simplifies the diagnostic process, enabling use by minimally trained healthcare workers.

Fast and Efficient Diagnosis

• Provides diagnostic results within 20-30 minutes.

• Assesses seven key parameters: temperature, pressure, vibration, etc.

• Enables early detection and personalized treatment plans to prevent irreversible nerve damage.

Support and Development

• Supported by Center of Innovation and Biodesign (CBIOD) and Thapar Institute.

• Initial patent funding provided by CBIOD; further support being sought from ICMR.

• Holds Indian patent and aims to further reduce costs through mass production.

Statements from Leaders or Officials
Dr. Babita Ghai emphasized the mission behind the innovation:
 “Our goal is to break the exclusivity of advanced healthcare and bring it to community healthcare providers. By making this technology affordable and easy to use, we can facilitate early detection and prevention, significantly improving patient outcomes.”With its affordability and efficiency, PGI’s AI-powered QST device has the potential to revolutionize neuropathic pain diagnosis in India. Efforts are underway to secure additional funding and scale production, aiming to make this groundbreaking device available to healthcare providers nationwide, especially in underserved areas.