Related Experiment Videos
An oximeter for measuring hemoglobin concentration and oxygen content.
A P Shepherd1, V T Randal, J M Steinke
1Department of Physiology, University of Texas Health Science Center, San Antonio 78284.
The American Journal of Physiology
|November 1, 1989
Summary
A new oximeter measures total hemoglobin and oxygen saturation in whole blood. This innovative device offers improved accuracy and preserves blood samples for further analysis.
Area of Science:
- Biomedical Engineering
- Medical Devices
- Analytical Chemistry
Background:
- Oximetry is crucial for assessing oxygen levels in blood.
- Existing oximeters face challenges with calibration shifts and sample dilution.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop an advanced oximeter capable of measuring both total hemoglobin concentration and oxygen saturation.
- To overcome limitations of current oximetry technologies, including calibration stability and sample integrity.
Main Methods:
- Utilized red and infrared light-emitting diodes to illuminate whole blood samples in a capillary tube.
- Employed a microprocessor to analyze scattered light intensity for calculating hemoglobin and saturation levels.
- Developed algorithms for nonlinear computation of total hemoglobin and ratio-based calculation of oxyhemoglobin saturation.
Main Results:
- The developed oximeter accurately measures total hemoglobin concentration and oxyhemoglobin saturation.
- The instrument demonstrates immunity to calibration shifts caused by varying hemoglobin levels.
- Accurate measurements are achievable across a wide spectrum of oxygen saturation levels.
- Blood samples remain undiluted, allowing for subsequent analytical procedures.
Conclusions:
- The novel oximeter provides a comprehensive and stable method for blood oxygen and hemoglobin assessment.
- This technology offers significant advantages over conventional oximeters, enhancing diagnostic capabilities.
- The design facilitates further blood sample analysis, adding value in clinical and research settings.