Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 10, 2026

Image Acquisition using Portable Sonography for Emergency Airway Management
Published on: September 28, 2022
Using a generalized neural network to identify airway obstructions in anesthetized patients postoperatively based on
Bethany R Knorr1, Susan P McGrath, George T Blike
1Institute for Security Technology Studies and Thayer School of Engineering, Dartmouth College, USA.
Abstract:
Photoplethysmography has been recently studied asa non-invasive indicator of circulatory and respiratory function. In this study, photoplethysmographic (PPG) data were recorded from patients under the influence of anesthesia, but not intubated. Both time and frequency domain features were extracted from the PPG and used as inputs to a neural network classifier. This classifier considers inter-subject variability so that it generalizes well to a large population. This classifier provided 86.1%accuracy to classify segments as being times of 'obstructed' vs.'normal' airways status.
Related Concept Videos
Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation II: ACLS Airway Management
Assessment of Airway, Skin Color, and Use of Accessory Muscles
Introduction
The initial evaluation of a patient's respiratory system...
General Anesthesia: Overview
General anesthesia induces unconsciousness in the whole body, while the others target specific areas or sensations. It is administered to minimize adverse effects, maintain...

