Hemodynamic monitoring by continuous analysis of pulse oximeter plethysmographic waveform in newborn infants

摘要

Pulse oximetry is used to provide continuous, noninvasive monitoring of arterial hemoglobin saturation (SpO/sub 2/). The amplitude of the plethysmographic waveform of the pulse oximeter (PW) is related to variations in blood flow and volume at the tissue level during each cardiac cycle. We designed a computerized analysis of the PW to evaluate peripheral blood perfusion. The software provides the following functions: (1) graphical presentation and instantaneous values of the physiological data in real-time; (2) delay measurement between QRS wave of ECG and the beginning of PW; (3) PW variabilities induced by the mechanical ventilation; and (4) temporal change of vascular compliance and resistance by using an electrical model. This tool was assessed in an in vitro model.