Evaluating the dynamic performance of a fibre optic pressure microsensor.

Area of Science:

• Biomedical Engineering
• Sensor Technology
• Physiological Monitoring

Background:

• Accurate measurement of physiological fluid pressures is critical for diagnosing and managing various medical conditions.
• Existing pressure sensors may have limitations in terms of accuracy, biocompatibility, or dynamic response.
• Fiber optic sensors offer potential advantages for in-vivo measurements due to their small size and electromagnetic immunity.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the dynamic performance of a novel fiber optic sensor designed for physiological fluid pressure measurement.
• To characterize the sensor's sensitivity and reproducibility across different temperatures and frequencies.
• To determine the optimal conditions for reliable sensor operation.

Main Methods:

• The fiber optic sensor's dynamic performance was assessed in degassed water.
• Sensitivity was evaluated against a Millar pressure catheter using sinusoidal pressure inputs (0.5–10 Hz) at 23°C, 35°C, and 37°C.
• Reproducibility was confirmed through multiple calibration tests over consecutive days.

Main Results:

• Sensor sensitivity remained flat up to 6 Hz, with a slight decrease between 6 and 10 Hz.
• Sensitivity was marginally lower at 23°C compared to 37°C.
• Excellent measurement reproducibility was observed, with a constant time delay of 0.13 s across all tested frequencies.

Conclusions:

• The new fiber optic sensor demonstrates reliable dynamic performance for physiological fluid pressure measurement.
• Immersion in degassed water prior to use is recommended for optimal and consistent sensor performance.
• The sensor's characteristics suggest its suitability for applications requiring accurate physiological pressure monitoring.