EP1450672A2 - Methode de determination en continu et de fa on non invasive des caracteristiques physiologiques - Google Patents

Methode de determination en continu et de fa on non invasive des caracteristiques physiologiques

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Publication number
EP1450672A2
EP1450672A2 EP01274207A EP01274207A EP1450672A2 EP 1450672 A2 EP1450672 A2 EP 1450672A2 EP 01274207 A EP01274207 A EP 01274207A EP 01274207 A EP01274207 A EP 01274207A EP 1450672 A2 EP1450672 A2 EP 1450672A2
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European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
blood
patient
absorbance
log
wavelength
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EP01274207A
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German (de)
English (en)
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EP1450672A4 (fr
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    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61B—DIAGNOSIS; SURGERY; IDENTIFICATION
    • A61B5/00—Measuring for diagnostic purposes; Identification of persons
    • A61B5/68—Arrangements of detecting, measuring or recording means, e.g. sensors, in relation to patient
    • A61B5/6801—Arrangements of detecting, measuring or recording means, e.g. sensors, in relation to patient specially adapted to be attached to or worn on the body surface
    • A61B5/6813—Specially adapted to be attached to a specific body part
    • A61B5/6825—Hand
    • A61B5/6826—Finger
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61B—DIAGNOSIS; SURGERY; IDENTIFICATION
    • A61B5/00—Measuring for diagnostic purposes; Identification of persons
    • A61B5/02—Detecting, measuring or recording pulse, heart rate, blood pressure or blood flow; Combined pulse/heart-rate/blood pressure determination; Evaluating a cardiovascular condition not otherwise provided for, e.g. using combinations of techniques provided for in this group with electrocardiography or electroauscultation; Heart catheters for measuring blood pressure
    • A61B5/02007—Evaluating blood vessel condition, e.g. elasticity, compliance
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61B—DIAGNOSIS; SURGERY; IDENTIFICATION
    • A61B5/00—Measuring for diagnostic purposes; Identification of persons
    • A61B5/02—Detecting, measuring or recording pulse, heart rate, blood pressure or blood flow; Combined pulse/heart-rate/blood pressure determination; Evaluating a cardiovascular condition not otherwise provided for, e.g. using combinations of techniques provided for in this group with electrocardiography or electroauscultation; Heart catheters for measuring blood pressure
    • A61B5/02028—Determining haemodynamic parameters not otherwise provided for, e.g. cardiac contractility or left ventricular ejection fraction
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61B—DIAGNOSIS; SURGERY; IDENTIFICATION
    • A61B5/00—Measuring for diagnostic purposes; Identification of persons
    • A61B5/02—Detecting, measuring or recording pulse, heart rate, blood pressure or blood flow; Combined pulse/heart-rate/blood pressure determination; Evaluating a cardiovascular condition not otherwise provided for, e.g. using combinations of techniques provided for in this group with electrocardiography or electroauscultation; Heart catheters for measuring blood pressure
    • A61B5/0205—Simultaneously evaluating both cardiovascular conditions and different types of body conditions, e.g. heart and respiratory condition
    • A61B5/02055—Simultaneously evaluating both cardiovascular condition and temperature
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61B—DIAGNOSIS; SURGERY; IDENTIFICATION
    • A61B5/00—Measuring for diagnostic purposes; Identification of persons
    • A61B5/145—Measuring characteristics of blood in vivo, e.g. gas concentration, pH value; Measuring characteristics of body fluids or tissues, e.g. interstitial fluid, cerebral tissue
    • A61B5/14539—Measuring characteristics of blood in vivo, e.g. gas concentration, pH value; Measuring characteristics of body fluids or tissues, e.g. interstitial fluid, cerebral tissue for measuring pH
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61B—DIAGNOSIS; SURGERY; IDENTIFICATION
    • A61B5/00—Measuring for diagnostic purposes; Identification of persons
    • A61B5/145—Measuring characteristics of blood in vivo, e.g. gas concentration, pH value; Measuring characteristics of body fluids or tissues, e.g. interstitial fluid, cerebral tissue
    • A61B5/1455—Measuring characteristics of blood in vivo, e.g. gas concentration, pH value; Measuring characteristics of body fluids or tissues, e.g. interstitial fluid, cerebral tissue using optical sensors, e.g. spectral photometrical oximeters
    • A61B5/14551—Measuring characteristics of blood in vivo, e.g. gas concentration, pH value; Measuring characteristics of body fluids or tissues, e.g. interstitial fluid, cerebral tissue using optical sensors, e.g. spectral photometrical oximeters for measuring blood gases
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61B—DIAGNOSIS; SURGERY; IDENTIFICATION
    • A61B5/00—Measuring for diagnostic purposes; Identification of persons
    • A61B5/48—Other medical applications
    • A61B5/4821—Determining level or depth of anaesthesia
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61B—DIAGNOSIS; SURGERY; IDENTIFICATION
    • A61B5/00—Measuring for diagnostic purposes; Identification of persons
    • A61B5/68—Arrangements of detecting, measuring or recording means, e.g. sensors, in relation to patient
    • A61B5/6801—Arrangements of detecting, measuring or recording means, e.g. sensors, in relation to patient specially adapted to be attached to or worn on the body surface
    • A61B5/683—Means for maintaining contact with the body
    • A61B5/6838—Clamps or clips
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61B—DIAGNOSIS; SURGERY; IDENTIFICATION
    • A61B2560/00—Constructional details of operational features of apparatus; Accessories for medical measuring apparatus
    • A61B2560/02—Operational features
    • A61B2560/0242—Operational features adapted to measure environmental factors, e.g. temperature, pollution
    • A61B2560/0247—Operational features adapted to measure environmental factors, e.g. temperature, pollution for compensation or correction of the measured physiological value
    • A61B2560/0261—Operational features adapted to measure environmental factors, e.g. temperature, pollution for compensation or correction of the measured physiological value using hydrostatic pressure
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61B—DIAGNOSIS; SURGERY; IDENTIFICATION
    • A61B5/00—Measuring for diagnostic purposes; Identification of persons
    • A61B5/02—Detecting, measuring or recording pulse, heart rate, blood pressure or blood flow; Combined pulse/heart-rate/blood pressure determination; Evaluating a cardiovascular condition not otherwise provided for, e.g. using combinations of techniques provided for in this group with electrocardiography or electroauscultation; Heart catheters for measuring blood pressure
    • A61B5/024—Detecting, measuring or recording pulse rate or heart rate
    • A61B5/02416—Detecting, measuring or recording pulse rate or heart rate using photoplethysmograph signals, e.g. generated by infrared radiation
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61B—DIAGNOSIS; SURGERY; IDENTIFICATION
    • A61B5/00—Measuring for diagnostic purposes; Identification of persons
    • A61B5/02—Detecting, measuring or recording pulse, heart rate, blood pressure or blood flow; Combined pulse/heart-rate/blood pressure determination; Evaluating a cardiovascular condition not otherwise provided for, e.g. using combinations of techniques provided for in this group with electrocardiography or electroauscultation; Heart catheters for measuring blood pressure
    • A61B5/026—Measuring blood flow
    • A61B5/0285—Measuring or recording phase velocity of blood waves
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61B—DIAGNOSIS; SURGERY; IDENTIFICATION
    • A61B5/00—Measuring for diagnostic purposes; Identification of persons
    • A61B5/02—Detecting, measuring or recording pulse, heart rate, blood pressure or blood flow; Combined pulse/heart-rate/blood pressure determination; Evaluating a cardiovascular condition not otherwise provided for, e.g. using combinations of techniques provided for in this group with electrocardiography or electroauscultation; Heart catheters for measuring blood pressure
    • A61B5/026—Measuring blood flow
    • A61B5/029—Measuring or recording blood output from the heart, e.g. minute volume
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61B—DIAGNOSIS; SURGERY; IDENTIFICATION
    • A61B5/00—Measuring for diagnostic purposes; Identification of persons
    • A61B5/145—Measuring characteristics of blood in vivo, e.g. gas concentration, pH value; Measuring characteristics of body fluids or tissues, e.g. interstitial fluid, cerebral tissue
    • A61B5/14532—Measuring characteristics of blood in vivo, e.g. gas concentration, pH value; Measuring characteristics of body fluids or tissues, e.g. interstitial fluid, cerebral tissue for measuring glucose, e.g. by tissue impedance measurement
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61B—DIAGNOSIS; SURGERY; IDENTIFICATION
    • A61B5/00—Measuring for diagnostic purposes; Identification of persons
    • A61B5/145—Measuring characteristics of blood in vivo, e.g. gas concentration, pH value; Measuring characteristics of body fluids or tissues, e.g. interstitial fluid, cerebral tissue
    • A61B5/1455—Measuring characteristics of blood in vivo, e.g. gas concentration, pH value; Measuring characteristics of body fluids or tissues, e.g. interstitial fluid, cerebral tissue using optical sensors, e.g. spectral photometrical oximeters
    • A61B5/14551—Measuring characteristics of blood in vivo, e.g. gas concentration, pH value; Measuring characteristics of body fluids or tissues, e.g. interstitial fluid, cerebral tissue using optical sensors, e.g. spectral photometrical oximeters for measuring blood gases
    • A61B5/14552—Details of sensors specially adapted therefor
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61B—DIAGNOSIS; SURGERY; IDENTIFICATION
    • A61B5/00—Measuring for diagnostic purposes; Identification of persons
    • A61B5/24—Detecting, measuring or recording bioelectric or biomagnetic signals of the body or parts thereof
    • A61B5/25—Bioelectric electrodes therefor
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61B—DIAGNOSIS; SURGERY; IDENTIFICATION
    • A61B5/00—Measuring for diagnostic purposes; Identification of persons
    • A61B5/24—Detecting, measuring or recording bioelectric or biomagnetic signals of the body or parts thereof
    • A61B5/316—Modalities, i.e. specific diagnostic methods
    • A61B5/369—Electroencephalography [EEG]
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61B—DIAGNOSIS; SURGERY; IDENTIFICATION
    • A61B5/00—Measuring for diagnostic purposes; Identification of persons
    • A61B5/24—Detecting, measuring or recording bioelectric or biomagnetic signals of the body or parts thereof
    • A61B5/316—Modalities, i.e. specific diagnostic methods
    • A61B5/389—Electromyography [EMG]

Definitions

  • the present invention relates generally to noninvasive methods of quantitatively determining various physiologic parameters relating to cardiovascular and respiratory function. More particularly, the invention relates to methods and devices for continuous, noninvasive determination of: hemoglobin, glucose and other blood constituent concentrations, blood pH and acid-base balance, blood flow differentials, blood temperature, arterial blood pressure, venous pressure, arterial oxygen saturation, venous oxygen saturation, arterial pulse wave velocity, aortic pulse wave velocity, aortic pulse flow velocity, cardiac stroke volume, cardiac index, cardiac output, heart rate, respiratory rate and cardiac ejection fraction.
  • BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION Critically ill and seriously injured patients require constant care and attention.
  • Heart rate and blood pressure measurements are two primary vital signs that indicate the health of patients under their care. When these two common indices of wellness fall below normal readings, a patient is usually in distress and requires immediate attention.
  • blood pressure can be directly measured by placing a fluid- filled catheter directly into the vessel and coupling this to an electro-mechanical transducer. This is the most accurate means, but has all the disadvantages of invasive measurement, including pain on insertion, risk of infection or disease transmission, risk of bleeding or thrombosis, and great expense. A further disadvantage is the creation of toxic medical waste (needle, gloves, skin dressing, etc). Blood pressure measurement can also be measured indirectly using an occlusive cuff (with either auscultation or osciUometry to make the determination). This is the most common means of blood pressure measurement. Illustrative is Pat. Nos. 5,582,179, 5,048,533, 5,152,296 and 4,793,360. A further occlusive cuff apparatus is disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 5,766,130.
  • the apparatus includes multiple "pressurized pneumatic cuffs" that are used to "plot blood pressure and/or volumetric blood flow wave forms from a plurality of separate digits and/or extremities of a patient so that circulatory parameters may be measured rapidly and recorded from a great number of the patient's digits or limbs".
  • the occlusive cuff Although commonly employed, the occlusive cuff also has numerous disadvantages, which include discomfort, intermittent readings, and poor reliability.
  • Acid-base balance (the most common measure is pH) is perhaps the most important factor in the chemistry of both biologic and non-biologic systems. It figures in speed of reactions; indeed, if a reaction will occur at all. In most biologic systems, determination of pH requires laboratory analysis. The monetary costs are high, and procedures involve risk for patient subject and laboratory technicians among others. Toxic medical waste (syringes, gloves, etc.) is created and must be disposed of safely. In other systems (and to some extent in biologic systems), pH measurement is done in one of two common ways: colorimetric and electrochemical. Noninvasive measurement of arterial blood pH is described in U.S. Patent No. 5,978,691.
  • noninvasive methods and devices capable of continuously determining various physiological characteristics, such as blood pressure, central venous pressure and cardiac output, without separate calibration.
  • noninvasive methods and devices for determining various blood parameters including hemoglobin, glucose and other blood constituent concentrations, blood pH and acid-base balance, blood flow differentials, blood temperature, blood pressures and pressure wave differentials.
  • the present invention satisfies these and other needs.
  • the invention comprises methods for noninvasively determining the concentration of a blood constituent, generally including the steps of providing a tissue probe having a radiation emitter with a wavelength and a detector configured to receive the wavelength after absorbance through a path length of the patient's blood; measuring absorbance of the patient's blood by emitting and detecting radiation after passage through the patient's blood; varying the path length of to provide multiples of path length; measuring absorbance of the patient's blood at each multiple of the path length; and determining the concentration of the blood constituent based upon the changing absorbance.
  • the determination is made continuously.
  • the determination can also be made using calculated multiples of the path length.
  • the invention comprises the steps of providing a first and second tissue probe each having a radiation emitter with a wavelength and a radiation detector configured to receive the wavelength after absorbance through a path length of the patient's blood at a position relative to the heart of the patient; measuring absorbance of the patient's blood by emitting radiation and detecting radiation after passage through a first path length of the patient's blood; varying the pressure of the blood within the first and second probes; measuring absorbance of the blood as the pressure is varied; and computing the time of arrival and amplitude of the pulse based on the absorbance at the varying pressures.
  • the pressure of the blood within the probes can be varied by changing the hydrostatic pressure relative to the heart such as by changing the height of the probe.
  • the blood constituent being measured comprises hemoglobin.
  • hemoglobin oxygen saturation or blood pH By measuring hemoglobin oxygen saturation or blood pH at different probe locations, blood corresponding to a single flow wave can be identified.
  • multiple determinations of cardiac characteristics can be made, including arterial pulse wave velocity, aortic pulse wave velocity, aortic pulse flow velocity, cardiac stroke volume, cardiac index, cardiac output, heart rate, respiratory rate and cardiac ejection fraction.
  • tissue probes having more than one radiation emitter and detector pairs can be employed.
  • the invention also comprises methods for noninvasively determining the pH of blood of a patient, generally including the steps of providing a first tissue probe having a first and second radiation emitter with a first and second wavelength, respectively, and a first and second radiation detector configured to receive the first and second wavelength, respectively, after absorbance through the patient's blood; measuring absorbance of the patient's blood by emitting radiation at the first and second wavelength through the patient's blood and detecting the radiation after passage through the patient's blood; and computing the pH of the blood based upon the measured absorbance at the first and second wavelengths.
  • the first and second wavelengths are selected so that the absorbance of the first wavelength depends upon the pH of the blood and the absorbance of the second wavelength is substantially independent of the pH of the blood.
  • the method is tailored to measuring the absorbance spectrum of hemoglobin species that have certain pH dependent absorption peaks. Since pH is also dependant upon temperature, more accurate results can be obtained if the blood temperature is varied. Alternatively, if the pH of the blood is characterized, the temperature of the blood can accurately be determined.
  • Yet another embodiment of the invention is a method for non-invasively determining the concentration of a blood constituent comprising the steps of measuring absorbance of arterial and venous blood; determining arterial and venous oxygen saturation; subtracting hemoglobin absorbance based upon the arterial and venous saturation; and determining the concentration of a blood constituent based upon remaining absorbance.
  • the blood constituent comprises glucose.
  • the invention also includes a device for the noninvasive monitoring of a physiologic characteristic of a patient's blood.
  • the device comprises a tissue probe having a radiation emitter and a radiation detector configured to receive the radiation after absorbance through the patient's blood; a position sensor for determining the relative height of the probe compared to a level corresponding to the patient's heart; and a controller for computing the physiologic characteristic of the patient's blood based on the absorbance of the first wavelength of radiation and the relative height of the probe.
  • the radiation emitters of the invention can utilize a single wavelength or a plurality of discrete wavelengths and may include visible light, infrared light, and ultraviolet light.
  • the probes are adapted for use with hands, fingers, feet, toes, ears, earlobes, nares, lips, tongue and the like. Additional radiation emitters and detectors may also be used.
  • the probe further comprises ECG leads.
  • An alternative embodiment of the device of the invention comprises a tissue probe and controller in conjunction with a movement generator for inducing a position change of the probe with respect to a level corresponding to the patient's heart.
  • the movement generator induces a known position change of the probe and moves the probe to positions above and below a level corresponding to the patient's heart.
  • the invention also comprises methods for determining other physiological characteristics of a patient's blood noninvasively.
  • absorbance characteristics of the blood are measured at varying positions relatively to the level of the patient's heart.
  • blood parameters such as pulse amplitude, pulse velocity, pulse delay, pulse contour, flow velocity and flow delay to hydrostatic pressure differences induced by the position changes.
  • characteristics such as arterial and central venous blood pressure and cardiac output can be determined.
  • two probes are used to compute pulse delays between coupled tissues or opposing tissues.
  • the subject invention relates novel methods for noninvasive determination of physiologic characteristics.
  • the first new and unique method and device utilizes changes in hydrostatic pressure induced by positional changes to facilitate measurements.
  • a second new and unique method and device for noninvasive determination of cardiac output by measuring delays in pulse arrival times in coupled organs or members on opposite sides of the body is also described.
  • the two methods are such that they can advantageously be used together.
  • a patient is anesthetized for a surgical procedure. Probes are attached to the index fingers of each hand, and a movement generator is placed on one arm.
  • a complete set of vital signs and physiologic characteristics is generated continuously, including: arterial blood pressure, venous pressure, arterial oxygen saturation, venous oxygen saturation, arterial pulse wave velocity, aortic pulse wave velocity, aortic pulse flow velocity, cardiac stroke volume, cardiac output, heart rate, and respiratory rate. Other characteristics can be calculated if desired.
  • a patient is anesthetized for a cardiac surgical procedure. As access to the arms is difficult, probes are attached to the patient's temples. A complete set of vital signs and physiologic characteristics is continuously generated.
  • a patient is anesthetized for a cardiac surgical procedure; this time the procedure includes valvular repair or replacement. Since the cardiac output and other characteristics can be continuously computed, the adequacy of the surgical repair can be judged immediately.
  • A-6 A patient is hospitalized in the intensive care unit of a hospital after a heart attack. Probes are attached to the index fingers of each hand, and a movement generator is placed on an arm or a leg. A complete set of vital signs and physiologic characteristics can be continuously generated. In addition, arrhythmias can be detected and diagnosed.
  • the patient noted above is now moved to a "step-down" or telemetry unit from the intensive care unit. Because the device described herein eliminates the need for invasive monitoring lines, a complete set of vital signs and physiologic characteristics can still be continuously generated. As the patient has mobility of arms and legs, a movement generator is no longer needed, as the patient's spontaneous motion, even during sleep, will generate hydrostatic pressures in the limbs, allowing all computations to be made.
  • the probes may be made wireless, and connected to a central nursing station by means of infrared or radio frequency conm unication.
  • Ambulances, emergency vehicles, and military vehicles can also employ this device as it is very simple to operate, and provides data that currently is impossible for them to obtain.
  • the information can be transmitted to central stations where medical personnel are available for help and advice.
  • the device and methods of the invention will provide means of monitoring patients or checking vital signs for extended care facilities, nursing homes, and other health-related facilities (A- 12).
  • Blood pressure screening clinics and drugstores will have a greatly improved means of determining patient's blood pressures and other vital signs.
  • Airports and airplanes are able to purchase medical equipment, but often do not have personnel trained to operate the equipment.
  • the device is simple and quick to operate.
  • A- 13 The patient noted in applications 6 through 9 above can also monitor his heart disease and health care at home.
  • the operation of the device is straightforward enough to be used by the layman with minimal instruction, and inexpensive enough for personal home use.
  • the patient can measure his cardiovascular characteristics daily, or as frequently as he and his physician desire.
  • a communication means such as a modem, can easily be incorporated into the device. This, with appropriate software and support, would allow essentially instantaneous communication with a physician's office, clinic, or hospital.
  • a permanent record can be made and stored electronically. If desired, the device could automatically "sign on" to the Internet or other network, and link to the appropriate website or other address. The ability to participate more fully in their own health care will improve the welfare of individuals.
  • A- 14 The patient of above presents to the emergency room of a hospital with chest pain.
  • the ER physician can access, via the Internet or other means, the patient's vital sign history , including ECG. This allows the physician to determine if abnormalities are new or chronic. Changes, such as dysrhythmias, can be identified as to when they first occurred, perhaps to within a time frame of hours or less.
  • A- 15 People without diagnosed cardiovascular disease can use the device to allow themselves to participate in their own health care. This will allow virtually immediate diagnosis of any problems, allowing early intervention. In additiqn, a permanent record can be created if desired.
  • the device will impact fitness and physical training for everyone from lay people to military personnel to professional athletes.
  • the device can be employed in the diagnosis and management of peripheral vascular disease. Measurement of pulse wave velocity in the extremities, and particular differential pulse wave velocities in the lower extremities, can be used to diagnose peripheral vascular disease. Since measurements are real time and continuous, they can also be used in management. For example, if balloon angioplasty of an artery is performed, the clinician can tell immediately if flow has improved. In the case of angioplasty of coronary arteries, the clinician can follow cardiac characteristics on a beat- by-beat basis.
  • A-l 8 In addition to peripheral vascular disease, other diseases, such as abdominal aortic aneurysm, can be diagnosed and managed. Changes in pulse wave velocity and waveform can be followed for years if desired.
  • the device will also allow noninvasive diagnosis of congenital cardiac defects and anomalies. Analysis of differential pulse wave velocity and blood pressure will allow rapid, accurate, and specific diagnosis of many disorders, including Tetralogy of Fallot and transposition of the great vessels. The ability to distinguish both arterial and venous saturations and pressures will allow diagnosis of patent ductus arteriosus, truncus arteriosus, atrial septal defect, and ventricular septal defect.
  • the device can be used for only for diagnosis but confirmation of adequacy of repair, including intraoperatively. As the device is inexpensive and easy to operate, it may become a screening tool for newborns and infants. (A-20).
  • the device can be used in conjunction with intra-aortic balloon pump
  • the device can be used in conjunction with placement of cardiac pacemakers, to set proper rate and timing intervals.
  • efficacy of pacemakers can be checked as frequently as desired, and scheduling of reprogramming or replacement made automatically.
  • A-25 Forces other than gravity can be used.
  • a device such as the one described could be constructed to perform all indicated determinations using acceleration caused by movement in place of gravitational acceleration.
  • A-26 As mentioned in the examples above, an anticipated use is in the field of home health care, with the possibility of automatic sign-on and direction to a website. As the user is already participating in his or her health care, the extension of providing access to related health or other information via the Internet® is a natural one.
  • a verification means, such as fingerprint scanning, can be incorporated into a personal-use device, to ensure that any medical information gathered belonged to the individual using the device.
  • the device will be used in conjunction with the Penaz technique or other methods, such as calibration with a cuff or other means, as desired.
  • Nerve blocks such as spinal or epidural anesthesia, block the actions of the sympathetic nervous system, producing both arterial and venous dilation. This device can be used to assess these effects.
  • A-30 A patient with suspected peripheral vascular disease of the lower extremities is tested.
  • a probe of the invention is placed on a toe of one foot, and an identical probe is placed on a toe of the other foot. Pulse velocities and possible pulse delay between the two extremities are measured.
  • A-31 The patient from application 30 is tested further. Another identical probe is placed on a finger. Pulse velocities and possible pulse delay between the two lower extremities are measured. In addition, comparison is made with pulse velocity and propagation time in the upper extremity.
  • A-32 The patient from applications 30 and 31 is tested further. This time, the legs are raised and lowered to gain further information on pulse velocities and propagation times.
  • A-33 A person suffers severe trauma to the lower extremities in a motor vehicle accident. His physicians are concerned about the possibility of his developing "compartment syndrome", which is compromise of blood supply due to swelling of injured tissues. Probes of the invention are placed on his feet to monitor the integrity of the vascular supply.
  • a pharmaceutical company develops a new drug to manage hypertension,
  • CHF arrhythmias. Instead of long trials or invasive trials, they are conducted on subjects using this device.
  • FIGURE 1 is a diagram of the central cardiovascular system, showing the asymmetry of origins of the vessels off the aortic arch;
  • FIGURE 2 is a partial perspective view of one embodiment of a physiologic "tissue" probe with a single emitter-detector pair, according to the invention
  • FIGURE 3 is a partial perspective view of an alternative embodiment of a tissue probe with a single emitter-detector pair, according to the invention
  • FIGURE 4 is a partial perspective view of an alternative embodiment of a tissue probe with two emitter-detectors, according to the invention.
  • FIGURE 5 is a partial perspective view of an alternative embodiment of a tissue probe with a single emitter-detector pair and a single electrocardiogram (ECG) electrode, according to the invention
  • FIGURE 6 is a partial perspective view of an alternative embodiment of a tissue probe with a single emitter-detector pair and two ECG electrodes, according to the invention
  • FIGURE 7 is a partial perspective view of an alternative embodiment of a tissue probe with a two emitter-detector pairs and two ECG electrodes, according to the invention
  • FIGURE 8 is a partial perspective view of an alternative embodiment of a tissue probe having a position sensor, according to the invention.
  • FIGURE 9 is a schematic illustration of a patient with tissue probes placed on opposite digits according to the invention;
  • FIGURE 10 is a schematic illustration of a patient with probes placed on opposite temples, according to the invention.
  • FIGURE 11 is one embodiment of a circuit schematic including a photoplethysmogram, according to the invention.
  • FIGURE 12 is an alternative embodiment of a circuit schematic having a photoplethysmogram with an ECG amplifier, according to the invention
  • FIGURE 13 is an alternative embodiment of a circuit schematic having a photoplethysmogram with an ECG amplifier and a level signal, according to the invention
  • FIGURE 14 is an alternative circuit schematic having a photoplethysmogram with two independent channels, according to the invention
  • FIGURE 15 is an alternative circuit schematic having a photoplethysmogram with two independent channels and an ECG amplifier, according to the invention
  • FIGURE 16 is a schematic illustration of a patient with tissue probes placed on the digit and arm near the brachial artery, according to the invention.
  • FIGURE 17 is a schematic illustration of a patient with tissue probes placed on a finger and toe, according to the invention.
  • FIGURE 18 is a schematic illustration of a patient with tissue probes placed on opposite fingers and a toe, according to the invention.
  • FIGURES 19 and 20 are schematic illustrations of patients with tissue probes placed on opposite digits and positioned at differential heights relative to the patients' heart, according to the invention.
  • FIGURE 21 is a schematic illustration of a patient with tissue probes placed on a toe and opposite fingers positioned at different heights, according to the invention.
  • FIGURES 22-25 are graphical illustrations of oscilloscope tracings showing recordings using methods of the invention wherein the probes are placed on index fingers of opposite hands, and the pulse velocities and relative arrival times are varied by changing the heights of the probes relative to the heart;
  • FIGURE 26 is a graphical illustration of oscilloscope tracings showing trains of pulses with varying oxygen saturation values
  • FIGURE 27 is a graphical illustration of oscilloscope tracings showing trains of pulses with varying pH values
  • FIGURE 28 is a graphical illustration of oxygen saturation versus heart rate showing the effects of induced changes in oxygen saturation measured at the toe;
  • FIGURE 29 is a graphical illustration of oxygen saturation versus heart rate showing the effects of induced changes in oxygen saturation measured at the left hand
  • FIGURE 30 is graphical illustration of oxygen saturation versus heart rate showing the effects of induced changes in oxygen saturation measured at the right hand
  • FIGURES 31 and 32 are graphical illustrations of oxygen saturation (SO 2 ) versus pH showing the effect of plasma pH on oxygen saturation measurements for umbilical cord blood samples equilibrated with 100% oxygen;
  • FIGURE 33 is a computer algorithm for determining hemoglobin concentration, according to the invention.
  • FIGURE 34 is a graphical illustration of optical extinction curves of four species of hemoglobin at light wavelengths in the range of 600 to 950 nm;
  • FIGURE 35 is a graphical illustration of optical extinction curves for hemoglobin A at four different pH values and at light wavelengths in the range of 500 to 600 nm;
  • FIGURE 36 is an absorption spectrum for oxyhemoglobin between measurements at pH 7.6 and pH 6.8;
  • FIGURE 37 is an absorption spectrum for carboxyhemoglobin between measurements at pH 7.6 and pH 6.8;
  • FIGURE 38 is a graphical illustration of a normal hemoglobin-oxygen dissociation curve (HODC).
  • HODC hemoglobin-oxygen dissociation curve
  • FIGURE 39 is a graphical illustration of HODC s showing shifts due to pH and temperature
  • FIGURE 40 is a graphical illustration of oxygen saturation versus heart rate showing the change of oxygen saturation corresponding to high cardiac fraction ejection.
  • FIGURE 41 is a graphical illustration of oxygen saturation versus heart rate showing a change of oxygen saturation corresponding to low cardiac fraction ejection.
  • the heart is divided into two sides or sections.
  • the right or pulmonary circulation section that receives blood from the veins of the body and pumps it through the lungs and the left or systemic circulation section that receives the blood from the lungs and pumps it to the body.
  • the blood is then collected in the veins to be returned to the right side of the heart.
  • the arterial system begins at the aorta 1, to which the left ventricle of the heart pumps.
  • the first three branches of the aorta are the brachiocephalic or innominate artery 2, the left (common) carotid artery 3, and the left subclavian artery 4.
  • the brachiocephalic artery branches into the right subclavian 5 and right (common) 6 carotid arteries. These arteries provide the blood supply for the head and upper extremities.
  • the aorta then passes down (caudal) through the body, continuing to provide arterial branches to organs, terminating as a bifurcation creating the iliac arteries.
  • the brachiocephalic or innominate artery is the first branch of the aorta. It in turn branches into the right subclavian and right carotid arteries. In contrast, the left subclavian and left carotid arteries originate directly off the aortic arch. Thus, the subclavian and carotid arteries and any of their branches to one side of the body have different paths from their counterparts on the opposite side of the body.
  • the pressure pulse wave associated with left ventricular ejection will follow different pathways, and can be expected to arrive at different times for paired organs or members of the upper body, or members of the upper body compared to the lower body. Measurements performed by the inventor have shown this delay can range from less than one millisecond to several milliseconds, depending on the subject and circumstances. In addition, the inventor has found that this delay can be altered by several methods disclosed herein. This propagation delay, its alterations, and other factors make possible several determinations heretofore not possible by noninvasive means.
  • Blood pressure is the pressure exerted by the blood within a vessel upon the wall of the vessel. It is measured in units of force per unit area.
  • Central venous pressure is the pressure within the large veins in the chest and the right atrium, which is the common emptying point for the venous system.
  • Cardiac output is the amount of blood pumped by the heart, expressed in units of volume per time.
  • Central venous pressure is defined as the distending pressure present in the veins in the chest (proximate to the heart), and is considered equal to the pressure in the right atrium (which is the emptying point for the venous system). Pressure should be the same throughout the venous system, but there are valves to ensure that the blood does flow back toward the heart (for example, when standing the venous blood must flow uphill, and there is no pump as on the arterial side).
  • the present invention generally includes a radiation emitter having at least one wavelength being applied through a patient's tissue to the patient's blood; a radiation detector which detects reception of the at least one wavelength after absorbance through the blood, a movement generator for inducing position changes in the tissue; and a controller for computing the various characteristics based on the absorbance of the at least one wavelength of radiation at various position levels.
  • the radiation emitter and detector are inserted in a probe which can be placed about the tissue/blood to be measured.
  • a number of suitable configurations for probes are shown in Figures 2-8 and disclosed in Co-Pending Application S/N 09/684,104, which is incorporated by reference herein.
  • Figure 2 shows a representative probe 10 with a single emitter- detector pair 12.
  • the emitter and detector are placed such that transmittance through a body member, such as a finger 13, is measured.
  • a body member such as a finger 13
  • any part of the body that can be successfully transilluminated with the radiant energy used can be utilized. Thus, toes, ears, etc. could also be used.
  • pulse oximetry can be accomplished with this and all of the following embodiments.
  • Figure 3 shows a representative probe 14 with a single emitter-detector pair 16 placed such that reflectance of a body member, such as a finger, is measured.
  • Figure 4 shows a probe 18 with two emitter-detector pairs 20 and 22 spaced a known distance apart. This can be used to measure the velocity of the pulse wave within the probe itself.
  • the probe comprises one or more electrocardiogram (ECG) electrodes in conjunction with the emitter-detector pairs.
  • ECG electrocardiogram
  • Figure 5 shows a probe 24 with a single emitter-detector pair 26 and a single electrocardiogram (ECG) electrode 28.
  • Figure 6 shows a probe 30 with a single emitter-detector pair 32 and two ECG electrodes 34 and 36
  • Figure 7 shows a probe 38 with two emitter-detector pairs 40 and 42 and two ECG electrodes 44 and 46.
  • ECG electrocardiogram
  • the probe further comprises a position sensing or measuring device together with the emitter-detector pairs and/or ECG electrodes.
  • Figure 8 shows a probe 48 similar to that shown in Figure 7 with the addition of a position sensor 50. This position sensor could be used in conjunction with a position sensor placed at heart level in order to determine the hydrostatic pressure difference between the two position sensors.
  • the invention employs hydrostatic pressure to enable precise self-calibration of the devices in a completely noninvasive manner.
  • Hydrostatic pressure affects all liquids. Gravity or other acceleration will affect both the arterial and venous sides of the circulation. It affects all aspects of the blood pressure equally - mean, systolic, diastolic. For example, an increase in height that causes a change of 10 torr will change every pressure measurement during the cardiac cycle by this amount. For example, if the "true" blood pressure (taken level with the heart) is 120/80, when the arm is raised an amount needed to decrease the measured pressure by 10 torr, the measured pressure in the arm will be 110/70.
  • the pulse pressure will be the same, but the transmural pressure will be 10 torr lower at all times. In addition, the vessel will be smaller at all points.
  • the heart is taken to be the center of the circulatory system, and all values are in reference to it. This is not necessary for the practice of the invention, but serves as reference points for values in the current medical literature.
  • electromagnetic radiation in this description will refer to light in the visible and infrared range although, as noted in the attached claims, it is conceivable that other forms could be used.
  • I the transmitted intensity of the source through the sample
  • E the extinction coefficient of the component of interest
  • C the concentration of the component in the tissue itself
  • L the optical path length (distance) through the absorber
  • E*C*L absorbance. Beer's law and the practice of spectrophotometry and oximetry have been exhaustively reviewed in the literature. Generally, pulse oximetry in effect filters out signals other that pulsating (AC). In the body, it can be assumed that the pulsatile component of the signal is arterial blood, while all other tissue absorbers should be non- pulsatile (DC).
  • hydrostatic pressure changes to vary not only the amount of arterial blood, but also the amount of venous blood within a body member such as a finger.
  • hydrostatic changes can be used in a similar manner to the pulse to perform measurements on both arterial and venous blood. If a finger is contained within a probe, raising the probe will lower the hydrostatic pressure of all vessels in the finger, both arterial and venous. Both arteries and veins (and arterioles and venules) will be smaller due to lower pressure distending their walls. Most change will occur on the venous side of the circulation due to lower pressure. Total absorbance of the finger will decrease. As the arterial oxygen saturation can be measured by pulse oximetry, the venous oxygen saturation can be calculated in a similar manner.
  • a light signal of a known intensity and wavelength is produced by means of light- emitting diodes (LEDs) as in currently used oximeters or, as in one possible embodiment, a broad-band light source whereby wavelengths are isolated by a rotating filter or diffusion grating. In the latter case, the emitted light is distilled through a filter which allows a known wavelength and intensity of light to penetrate. Use of tunable lasers or other equipment is also possible. If the light source is proximate to the point of use, no further mode of transmission will be needed. If it is not, the light will be transported to the desired point by means such as a fiber optic cable, preserving the wavelength and intensity.
  • LEDs light- emitting diodes
  • a broad-band light source whereby wavelengths are isolated by a rotating filter or diffusion grating. In the latter case, the emitted light is distilled through a filter which allows a known wavelength and intensity of light to penetrate.
  • Use of tunable lasers or other equipment is also possible. If the light source is
  • a movement induction means is described herein, voluntary movement or other means are certainly possible.
  • Various means of position measurement are also possible.
  • a liquid filled tube with an end open to the atmosphere can be employed.
  • Other position sensors are known to those having skill in the art, and include electromagnetic, spectroscopic, ultrasonic, and chemical means.
  • a broad-band photo detector in the case of visible or infrared light
  • the movement induction means is used to bring the finger (or other space of interest) to a known position relative to the heart. Light of known wavelength and intensity is emitted (and transmitted if necessary) on the surface of interest.
  • Detection of the light signal at a distinct point is made and the relative absorbance and extinction of the signal is calculated.
  • Signal processing is used to determine the pulsatile portion of the signal.
  • the arrival time of the pulse is recorded, as is the amplitude and waveform. This measurement may be repeated one or more times to ensure the accuracy of the measurement; this can be done within a very short time frame (less than a millisecond).
  • the process outlined in the previous step will be repeated at the next chosen wavelength, while still at the same predetermined position.
  • the range and number of wavelengths can be selected, and changed for different applications.
  • the movement induction means would bring the finger or other volume to a predetermined second position, and the data collection of steps would be repeated. At the completion of measurements and determinations for this second position, the movement induction means will bring the space to a third predetermined position, and the measurements and determinations repeated. This process would be continued until the desired range of positions has been scrutinized.
  • the apparatus of the invention can be operated intermittently or continuously. In the intermittent mode, a single set of calculations can be used for analysis to produce the determinations claimed. However, the device can also be easily operated in continuous mode, with the process outlined above repeated as often as wished (constantly if desired).
  • a rapid (“stat") mode can be offered with the minimum number of measurements made that will provide an accurate estimation of correct values. Such a rapid mode would be useful in emergency situations. While this methodology should give precise values, further adjustment may be desired to compensate for any discrepancies between theoretical and in vivo measurements. Contemporary oximeters in fact use a calibration curve when determining oxygen saturation, with the curve being generated with data from normal volunteers.
  • measurement of pulse wave amplitude and timing is made using probes such as that shown in Figure 2, using methods similar to standard oximetry described in the prior art.
  • a first probe 52 is placed on a finger and set at a known position relative to the heart.
  • a second probe 54 placed on a finger on the hand opposite that of the first probe.
  • the pulse delay occurring between the two measurements is made.
  • probes 52 and 54 can be placed on opposite temples of the patient to measure pulse wave values and delay.
  • the probes can also be placed on the patient's ears.
  • p c*u*p
  • c pulse wave velocity
  • u flow wave velocity
  • p the density of the blood (approximately 1.055 grams/cm ).
  • p and c are measured, and p is known. This allows one to solve for u, which is the flow wave velocity at the aortic root. This by itself is a measure of cardiac output. If one makes an estimate of aortic root diameter, one can then compute cardiac stroke volume.
  • various well-known, conventional reconstruction techniques can be employed to convert or "transform" peripheral blood pressures and waveforms to the corresponding pressure and waveform at the aortic root.
  • the blood pressure at the aortic root should be used as the pressure term in Fung's equation.
  • the first way is by additionally measuring the peripheral pulse wave velocity. To do this, measurement of pulse wave amplitude and timing is made by a first probe such as that shown in Figure 5. The probe is at a set known position relative to the heart. Another, simultaneous measurement of pulse wave amplitude and timing is made by a second probe placed on a finger on the hand opposite that of the first probe. The pulse delay occurring between the two measurements is made. The respective peripheral pulse wave velocities are also computed. If the peripheral pulse wave velocities are different, it can be assumed that this is because of the different central anatomies from which the respective pulses traveled.
  • This information alone may be enough to compute central pulse wave velocity from a table of normals. However, when combined with the pulse wave delay information, this data enables one to construct a function of pulse wave speed from the periphery back to the aortic root, thus giving another measure of central pulse wave velocity.
  • Another method of the invention is to vary the position of the probes relative to the heart. If the first probe is at heart level and the second probe is raised above (with respect to the earth) heart level, the hydrostatic pressure of the blood vessels within the second probe will be lower than those within the first probe. In turn, in accordance with Fung's equation stated above, this means that the pulse wave velocity of the arterial vessels within the second probe will be lower than that in the arterial vessels within the first probe. This will change both the measured pulse delay between the two probes, and the measured peripheral pulse wave velocities. This creates additional measurements by which to compute central pulse wave velocity.
  • the above measurements can be employed to derive a number of physiological properties.
  • the probes of the invention are coimected to a controller to aid the data collection and analysis used to make the desired determination.
  • the controller includes a computing device or standard personal computer (PC) with a monitor. Included within the controller are algorithms for the calculation of variables not measured directly.
  • FIG. 11 there is shown a circuit schematic for a one or two wavelength photo-plethysmograph.
  • Emitters 56 and 58 and detector 60 are positioned adjacent the tissue being measured, such as a finger 61.
  • Emitters 56 and 58 are driven by drive circuitry 62, which is in turn governed by control signal circuitry 64.
  • Detector 60 is connected to amplifier 66.
  • the signal from amplifier 66 is sent to demodulator 68, which is also synched to control signal circuitry 62.
  • the signal from the demodulator 68 is sent to analog-digital converter 70.
  • the desired computations are performed on the output from the converter 70 by signal processor 72 and the results sent to display 74.
  • Emitters 56 and 58 operate specific wavelengths, such as 805 nm, and may comprise light emitting diodes (LEDs) or laser diodes.
  • Detector 60 preferably comprises a silicon photodiode. Such emitter-detector pairs are shown in Figures 2 and 3.
  • emitters 76 and 78 are connected via LED drive circuitry 79 and control signal circuitry 80 to demodulator 82.
  • Signal from detector 84 is amplified at circuit block 86 and sent to demodulator 82.
  • Output from demodulator 82 is sent to A/D converter 88.
  • ECG leads 90 are connected to differential amplifier 92 and the signal is sent to converter 88.
  • Output from converter 88 is processed at block 94 and the results sent to display 96.
  • a probe such as those shown in Figures 5 and 6 may be used with the circuitry.
  • the ECG leads are preferably silver/silver chloride or stainless steel.
  • Emitters 98 and 100 are connected via LED drive circuitry 101 and control signal circuitry 102 to demodulator 104.
  • Signal from detector 106 is amplified at circuit block 108 and sent to demodulator 104.
  • Output fiom demodulator 104 is sent to A/D converter 109.
  • ECG leads 110 are connected to differential amplifier 112 and the signal is sent to converter 109.
  • Digit level sensor 114 and heart level sensor 116 are connected to amplifier 118 and the signal is sent to converter 109.
  • Output from converter 109 is processed at block 120 and the results sent to display 122.
  • FIG 14 there is shown a circuit schematic suitable for use with a probe having two physically independent channels, such as the one shown in Figure 4.
  • a first emitter-detector pair comprising emitters 124 and 126 and detector 128 are positioned adjacent the tissue being measured, such as a finger.
  • a second pair comprising emitters
  • Emitters 124, 126, 132 and 134 and detector 136 are positioned a selected distance from the first pair. Emitters 124, 126, 132 and 134 are driven by drive circuitry 138, which is in turn governed by control signal circuitry 140. Signal from detector 128 is amplified by block 142 and sent to demodulator 144. Independently, signal from detector 136 is amplified and demodulated at blocks 146 and 148, respectively. Output from demodulators 144 and
  • FIG. 15 An alternative embodiment configured for use with a probe having two physically independent channels and an ECG lead, such as the one shown in Figure 7, is schematically illustrated in Figure 15.
  • a first emitter-detector pair comprising emitters 156 and 158 and detector 160 are positioned adjacent the tissue being measured, such as a finger.
  • a second pair comprising emitters 164 and 166 and detector 168 are positioned a selected distance from the first pair.
  • Emitters 156, 158, 164 and 166 are driven by drive circuitry 170 which is in turn governed by control signal circuitry 172.
  • Signal from detector 160 is amplified by block 174 and sent to demodulator 176.
  • Independently, signal from detector 168 is amplified and demodulated at blocks 178 and 180, respectively.
  • Output from demodulators 176 and 180 is sent to analog-digital converter 182.
  • ECG leads 184 are connected to differential amplifier 186 and the signal is also sent to converter 182
  • the desired computations are performed on the output from the converter 182 by signal processor 188 and the results sent to display 190.
  • Figures 9 and 10 show probes placed on opposite extremities to enable measurement of pulse wave delay.
  • Figure 16 shows an embodiment of the invention with probe 52, such as in Figure 1 , placed on the digit, and a probe 54, such as in Figure 2, placed on the arm near the brachial artery. This could measure the pulse wave velocity in the arm (as well as pulse oximetry). A similar embodiment could measure pulse wave velocity in the leg.
  • Figure 17 shows probes 52 and 54 placed on a finger and on a toe to measure the pulse wave delay.
  • Figure 18 shows probes 52 and 54 placed on opposite digits and probe 55 placed on a toe. This allows measurement of the differential pulse wave delay between the fingers and toe, and allows calibration of the toe probe to be used in place of a finger probe (if only one finger probe could be used, such as in hand surgery).
  • FIGs 19 and 20 show probes 52 and 54 placed on opposite digits.
  • One arm of the subject is placed at the level of the heart, while one arm is moved to different positions, both above and below the level of the heart.
  • the pulse velocity and hence pulse wave delay changes.
  • the amplitude of the pulse wave, and amplitude of venous absorbance changes. This allows the additional computations of arterial blood pressure and venous pressure.
  • Figure 21 shows probes 52 and 54 placed on opposite digits and probe 55 placed on a toe.
  • the differential hydrostatic pressures in the vessels allow measurements of pulse wave velocity and pulse wave delay, as well as arterial blood pressure and venous pressure.
  • Use of probes with suitable ECG leads will also allow the invention to perform a diagnostic-quality ECG.
  • heart rate and respiratory rate can be calculated, and cardiac output and several other cardiovascular characteristics computed.
  • the controllers of the invention preferably output the results of the measurements and computations to a display.
  • a display Referring now to Figure 22, there are shown two oscilloscope tracings from pulse oximeter probes, such as those shown in Figure 1, placed on the index fingers of both hands.
  • the pulse wave delay is visable as the slight phase difference between the two tracings.
  • the pulse amplitudes are essentially identical.
  • FIG. 23 there are shown oscilloscope tracings for a probe on a hand placed at a level higher than the heart (Curve A) and a probe on a hand placed at a level lower than the heart (Curve B).
  • the induction of a pressure differential between the two probes effects a change in the pulse delay.
  • the change in pressure also correspondingly alters the pulse amplitudes.
  • FIG 24 there are shown oscilloscope tracings for a probe on a hand placed at a level lower than the heart (Curve A) and a probe on a hand placed at a level higher than the heart (Curve B).
  • the pulse delay has substantially reversed as have the pulse amplitudes.
  • Figure 25 are oscilloscope tracings showing an electrocardiogram (Curve A) in conjunction with a pulse waveform (Curve B).
  • a probe such as that shown in Figure 1, is placed on an extremity that is moved in relation to the heart.
  • the hydrostatic pressure within the arteries and arterioles changes as a function of height with respect to the heart.
  • both the pulse wave velocity and pulse wave amplitude change as a function of probe height.
  • function curves of pressure vs. pulse wave amplitude and pressure vs. pulse wave velocity can be drawn. For example, a full excursion of the arm in a standing adult produces hydrostatic changes of greater than 50 cm of water in both directions. Using an arm and a leg, a gradient of well over 200 cm of water can be generated. This is a significant portion of the normal blood pressure range, and certainly enough to produce the function curves mentioned above.
  • a first probe having a position sensor is placed level with the patient's heart.
  • a second probe such as one shown in Figure 8, having a position sensor and a pulse detector is placed on the patient's finger.
  • the patient's arm is held out level with the heart so there is zero displacement between probes.
  • Pulse amplitude is recorded from probe.
  • the patient's arm is slowly raised, while pulse amplitude and relative displacement of probe are recorded.
  • the hydrostatic pressure difference between probes is also computed. By comparing the recorded pulse amplitude to the hydrostatic pressure difference, a mathematical function relating pressure to pulse amplitude can be derived.
  • circuitry similar to that shown in Figure 13 is used to aid the process.
  • This process is repeated while lowering the arm back to heart level, then lowering the arm to below heart level and, finally, raising the arm back to heart level. Similar steps can be applied to measure pulse delay, pulse velocity and pulse contour. Also preferably, frequency or Fourier analysis may be used to make the requisite determinations.
  • Cardiac output can be determined by measuring delays in pulse arrival times in coupled organs or members on opposite sides of the body.
  • probes such as those shown in Figure 1, having sensors for detecting a patient's pulse are placed on opposite fingers of the patient. The patient positions both arms straight out from the side.
  • the blood pressure of the patient can be determined either through conventional means or by the methods of the invention.
  • the pulse delay between the two probes can be measured utilizing circuitry such as that shown in Figures 14 or 15, for example.
  • the dicrotic notch of the pulse may be determined by standard methods, and used to calculate the ejection time based on the timing.
  • the size of the aortic root can be estimated by standard means and the consequently the pulse distance differential at the aortic root. This allows the calculation of the pulse velocity c at the aortic route by the following equation:
  • cardiac stroke volume can be determined by multiplying the aortic root area by the flow wave velocity and by the cardiac ejection time. Cardiac minute output can be calculated by multiplying the cardiac stroke volume by the pulse rate.
  • varying the pressure by small amounts can be used to calculate blood flow and thus cardiac output. Since the pulse arrives at the two hands at different times, if the "faster" arm is raised, the pulse wave velocity slows. The pressure difference necessary to make the pulse arrive in both hands simultaneously can be calculated. In view of the pressure-flow relationship above, the ratio of pressure should be the same as the ratio of flow.
  • the time difference, or number of heartbeats, of the flow arrivals in the two hands when they are level with the heart can be computed. In turn, this gives the cardiac index, as the closer the flow arrival times are, the higher the cardiac output. Likewise, the greater the flow arrival time difference is, the lower the cardiac output.
  • cardiac output can be determined by placing probes such as those shown in Figure 5 on a patient's finger and toe.
  • the probes measure oxygen saturation at each pulse.
  • the oxygen saturation for each pulse at the first probe is compared to the oxygen saturation of that pulse and subsequent pulses at the second probe. With continuous monitoring, this allows the determination matching oxygen saturation, within given tolerance limits, of the pulses from the probes.
  • the patient's blood volume and the physical separation of the probes can be determined by standard methods. This allows the computation of cardiac stroke volume by dividing the blood volume displaced by the number of pulses. Then, the cardiac minute output can be calculated by multiplying the cardiac stroke volume by pulse rate. Circuitry such as that shown in Figures 11 or 12 is suitable for use with this embodiment.
  • the principles used above may be used to calculate cardiac output on the basis of flow wave propagation as opposed to pulse wave.
  • the propagation of the flow wave happens much more slowly than that of the pulse wave (celerity).
  • the pulse wave celerity
  • blood that is ejected during a single cardiac cycle will arrive at the two hands at a slightly different time, while the time difference between the arrival at a hand versus a foot may be much longer, in the order of several seconds.
  • the difficulty lies in determining the blood that was ejected during the same cardiac cycle.
  • Two parameters that can be used to determine this are the hemoglobin oxygen saturation and the pH (acid-base balance).
  • hemoglobin concentration and blood pH can be measured using the probes and techniques of the invention. All blood that is ejected during a single cardiac cycle can be assumed to have the same saturation and pH, because blood is very well mixed in the left atrium and left ventricle prior to ejection. Also, it can be assumed that the saturation and pH change very little during the passage of the blood through the arterial system, as the arteries behave like pipes, conveying the liquid but consuming or releasing minimal metabolites.
  • Figure 27 similarly illustrates this phenomenon for pulses of differing pH.
  • the first pulse train (Curve A) which arrives earlier, corresponds to the hand.
  • the second pulse train (Curve B) corresponds to the foot.
  • additional, known parameters in addition to oxygen saturation and pH can also be employed.
  • an index can be generated based on patient's height or body surface area (BSA).
  • BSA body surface area
  • the delay in the arrival of a given pulse (identified by saturation or pH) between different parts of the body generates an index for each pair of points. For example, the longer the delay between hand and foot, the lower the cardiac output. The shorter the delay, the higher the cardiac output. With the addition of the induced saturation change (or pH), one can calculate all these indices more easily (since the change is more noticeable and easier to measure).
  • giving a subject a single breath of oxygen and continuously measuring the oxygen saturation in an extremity can be used for 3 measurements.
  • the time or number of heartbeats from the inspiration to the first change of saturation in the extremity can be used to compute the cardiac index (and thus cardiac output and stroke volume).
  • the time or number of heartbeats from the beginning of the change in saturation to the maximum change can be used to compute the cardiac ejection fraction.
  • the time intervals of total time from inspiration until the saturation has returned to baseline, total time from beginning of saturation change to return to baseline and "rebound" in saturation after return to baseline can be used to compute blood volume.
  • Determination of arterial oxygen saturation can be determined by pulse oximetry and techniques well delineated in both the patent and medical literature. Hydrostatic changes as described in this application allow the determination of venous saturation and pressure as well.
  • the central venous pressure can be estimated.
  • a probe containing a position sensor is place level with a patient's heart.
  • a second probe such as the one shown in Figure 8, also comprising a position sensor is placed on the patient's finger. The patient positions the arm so that the second probe is initially lower than the first probe. The total absorbance measured at the second probe is continuously monitored. The patient's arm is slowly raised, and the rate of change of absorbance of the second probe is computed with respect to the relative displacement to the first probe. When the rate of change changes by a predetermined amount representing an abrupt decrease, the arm position corresponding to the point of central venous drainage has been reached.
  • the rate of change changes by a predetermined amount representing an abrupt decrease
  • CVP can then be calculated by computing the hydrostatic pressure difference between the first probe and the second probe at that arm position.
  • the circuitry shown in Figure 13 is suitable for use with this embodiment.
  • A absorbance
  • E the extinction coefficient
  • L the path length of light travel
  • C concentration of hemoglobin
  • the extinction coefficient of the medium through which the light is being transmitted can be thought of as transparency or opacity.
  • the absorbance of the 660 nm wavelength is A 660
  • the absorbance of the 940 nm wavelength is A 40
  • oxy will refer to oxyhemoglobin and deox to deoxyhemoglobin.
  • path length L does not change between 2 successive measurements.
  • L will cancel out when a division is performed.
  • Eq. 10 only allows determination of the ratio of the 2 species of hemoglobin, not the total concentration of hemoglobin, more commonly termed the "blood count”.
  • the inability of previous attempts to determine hemoglobin concentration from absorbance measurements is because Beer's Law has 2 unknowns, C and L, with only a single measurement, A. As C and L are products, it is impossible to distinguish between them. Forming another equation by making another measurement of absorbance at, for example, a different path length, the new absorbance is simply a multiple of the first, and no new information is gained.
  • Equation H2 Equation H2
  • Equation 24 If LI is doubled and C halved, the A values should not change. Thus the left hand side of Equation 24 will not change. For the right hand side, halving C causes the value of the C term to decrease by:
  • Equation 28 Equation 28 is multiplied by the following term:
  • log terms have coefficient 1. Further, since 2 terms are added while 2 are subtracted they will be eliminated.
  • a 660de ⁇ ⁇ A 66 o-A 660oxy
  • Equation 60 log(C 0 ⁇ y)*log(C d eox)+log(L)* [log(C oxy )+log(C de o ⁇ )]+log 2 (L) Now substituting for log(C oxy ) + log(Cdeo ⁇ ) from Equation 57 into Equation 60:
  • A' oxy and A' deox can be calculated for a different saturation, and performing the multiplication and logarithm manipulations will generate a new equation.
  • the original values of A' 0X y and A'de ox are specified as A oxy ] and A deox ⁇ , and the new values, A oxy2 and A deoX 2- The equations thus become:
  • Eq. 66 log(Co ⁇ yl )*log(C d eo X ⁇ )-log(C oxy2 )*log(C d eo ⁇ 2 )+log(L)
  • Equation 67 To subtract Equation 67 from Equation 66, the coefficients of the log(L) terms must be equal, so Equation 67 can be multiplied by the following:
  • Eq. 68 k 12 log(Ao ⁇ y ⁇ )*log(A d eoxi)-log(A 0 ⁇ y2 )*log(A d eo ⁇ 2)
  • Eq. 70 [log(Ao Xyl *A deoxl )-log(Ao Xy2 *A d eox2)]/[log(Ao Xy3 *Adeox3)
  • Equation 67 A further equation is formed by multiplying Equation 67 by k m . This ensures that the log(L) terms are equal. Subtracting this new equation from Equation 66 eliminates the log(L) term:
  • log 2 (Ctot)+log(Ctot)*log(S ⁇ )+log(C tot ) :,: log(l-S ⁇ )]+log(S ⁇ )*log(l-S 1 ) log 2 (C tot )+log(Ctot) :i! [log(S ⁇ )+log(l-S ⁇ )]+log(S ⁇ )*log(l-S ⁇ ) Note that the log term has 1 as coefficient. Since there are 4 symmetrical terms, 2 adding and 2 subtracting, the log terms will cancel out i.e.,
  • C to t the concentration of hemoglobin
  • concentration of hemoglobin has been determined based entirely on known or measured values. It will be appreciated that, while this analysis assumes only 2 species of hemoglobin, the determinations can be made with additional species present by utilizing additional wavelengths of light.
  • the determination can be made using a single absorbance measurement from a single wavelength of light.
  • absorbance employing a wavelength of 660 nm is detailed below.
  • a ⁇ O E ⁇ Ooxy C oxy L+Eggodeox Cd eox L
  • An alternative measurement method utilizing venous absorbance follows.
  • the technique is equally suitable for arterial measurements.
  • Two probes such as shown in Figure 8, are placed on two separate digits. These probes should be of fixed or at least known dimensions.
  • the probes can be on one hand or both hands, as in Figure 9. Raising the hand well above the heart causes the venous absorbance signal to fall to near zero, as height of the probes will cause the pressure in the venous system within the probes to be below the CVP. Slowly lowering the digits will cause the veins to no longer be collapsed at some point. While this should happen at the same point for both probes, it is not essential to the technique.
  • the volume and pressure will rise above zero, and will continue rising as the digits are lowered.
  • the important concept is that the absorbances will not be the same in both probes. Two dissimilar fingers, such as a thumb and fifth finger can be chosen, but in any case absorbances will not be identical even between similar fingers. Circuitry such as that shown in Figure 13, may be used to facilitate the measurements. Since the dimensions of the probes are known, the concentration C of the blood within the probes can be imputed. Of course, this C will be much higher than the true concentration since the space within the probes is occupied by other tissue and only a small part is blood.
  • H represents the hydrostatic distance that the probes have moved since the begiiming of venous absorbance (this is convenient to establish a zero point for a graph)
  • a graph of H vs. C will be different for the two probes, as the amount of absorbing blood within the two probes is different.
  • D a fraction of H
  • a first probe with the lower concentration would have to be physically lowered in order to achieve the same concentration as the second probe.
  • the dimensions of the probes should be minimized to increase the accuracy of the concentration estimates, since the path length of the probes is much greater than the path length of blood.
  • halving the diameter of the probes doubles the measured concentration. Since the true path length of non-scattering blood absorbance is very small, the point where H and (H+D) are in the same ratio as the imputed concentrations yields the true concentrations. That is, if the concentration ratios are 1 :2 (twice as much absorbance in one probe), the true concentrations would be where H and D are equal.
  • the actual concentration of hemoglobin is that at point (H,C).
  • the further length D represents the additional non-blood path length through the other probe. Note that this C occurs at only one point. Also note that H is not the true path length, but C is in fact the true concentration.
  • this technique can be repeated many times for one arm movement, can be used for both arterial and venous measurements, and arterial and venous measurements can be done simultaneously, and checked against each other.
  • Multiplying P by A 2 provides:
  • Df 2 /D 2 "2 can be expressed in terms of D 2 /D ⁇ , which, as discussed above, is a known ratio.
  • E 2 *C 2 is a constant
  • equation 95 is taking a known ratio, adding a constant to the numerator and denominator, and arriving at another known ratio.
  • the value of the constant can be determined uniquely and precisely.
  • E ECL
  • ECL ECL
  • L path length
  • determination of L allows the computation of D as validation.
  • This probes and methods of this invention allow the pH and acid-base balance of a patient's blood to be determined noninvasively, continuously and in real time.
  • a probe such as those described above, containing one or more sources of emitted light is used, for example as shown in Figures 5 and 8.
  • the invention utilizes light in the visible and near-infrared spectra, but other wavelengths could be successfully used.
  • Detection of transmitted light is made by a photodetector. Suitable circuitry is shown in Figures 11 and 14, for example. Determination of absorbance of the emitted light is done using Beer's law. The emission, detection, and determination of absorbance described are all similar to that used in pulse oximeters, common in modern hospital settings. Using either pulse oximetry (filtering out all non-pulsatile signal components) or conventional spectrophotometry, identification of methemoglobin, oxyhemoglobin, deoxyhemoglobin, and carboxyhemoglobin, species of human hemoglobin, is made by utilizing known absorbance spectrums, such as those shown in Figure 34.
  • Ratiometric techniques similar to pulse oximetry can be used to exploit these spectral differences in order to determine pH of the blood.
  • perforating pulse oximetry using two wavelengths such as 660 and 940 can be used to determine the "true" oxygen saturation of the blood (for now, assuming only the two species oxyhemoglobin and deoxyhemoglobin).
  • An additional simultaneous measurement of at least one other wavelength ⁇ one known to be affected by pH, for example 535 or 577 nm ⁇ is performed.
  • the pH can be measured from the saturation values.
  • a multi-wavelength spectrophotometer allows multiple comparisons.
  • the absorbance spectra of oxyhemoglobin, deoxyhemoglobin, and carboxyhemoglobin, the more common hemoglobin species, are affected relatively little by acid-base balance.
  • Another embodiment of the invention exploits the optical spectrum of methemoglobin, which is very sensitive to pH in the physiologic range.
  • Table I there is shown a table by which the extinction coefficients for methemoglobin for selected wavelengths of light can be determined, since the absorbance varies with the acid-base balance of the blood.
  • Tables IIA and IIB can be created, which gives the ratios of the extinction coefficients for methemoglobin at the various pH values.
  • Tables IIA and IIB To determine the pH using Tables IIA and IIB, one first determines either the absorbance due to methemoglobin at each wavelength of interest, or the percentage of methemoglobin compared to other hemoglobin species. These determinations can be done using techniques described elsewhere in this application, or in other works. Once this has been done, the ratio of absorbances at the different wavelengths can be used to compute the pH.
  • the pH is 6.2. If the ratio is instead 1.516, the pH is approximately 7.4. Similar calculations can be made for other wavelengths, and the results compared to ensure accuracy.
  • Henderson-Hasselbach equation describes the dissolution of an acid in terms of pH, pK (dissolution or dissociation constant), and the concentrations of the acid and its salt or base.
  • the solubility, ⁇ of carbon dioxide (CO 2 ) is temperature-dependent and the pK for CO 2 also depends on temperature.
  • pH pK + log([HCO 3 " ]/ ⁇ PCO 2 ), or an alternate form can be used.
  • the temperature dependence of the pK for carbonic acid is shown in Tables III A - HIE below. TABLE IIIA
  • the degree of shift of the HODC can be calculated by:
  • values for PCO 2 and bicarbonate can be computed without the use of temperature perturbation if the pH is known at two or more values.
  • techniques described elsewhere in this application show that we can perform simultaneous measurements for arterial and venous blood. The two compartments have the same temperature but different pH values, and this allows formation of the Henderson- Hasselbach formulation into two equations for two unknowns: PCO 2 and [HCO 3 " ]. (D-6). Determination of Temperature
  • the shifts in the HODC shown in Figure 39 relative to the curve shown in Figure 38 are caused primarily by two factors: pH and temperature.
  • pH and temperature the pH of two samples of blood at the same temperature will define which curve the blood is at, and thus what the temperature of the blood is.
  • the techniques described elsewhere in this application can be used to provide simultaneous determinations of arterial and venous blood pH within a probe. As these pH values will be slightly different, the HODC can be defined, and temperature calculated quite accurately.
  • This method of the invention gives a true, noninvasive measurement of blood temperature. Since the blood flow to the finger or other member within the probe is continuously refreshed, the measurement is a very accurate estimate of central or "core" temperature.
  • the absorbance at each wavelength can be compared for arterial and venous blood.
  • a vast majority of the non-hemoglobin absorbers, but not glucose, will be of the same concentration in both arterial and venous blood.
  • the remaining glucose absorbance can be measured, and glucose concentration can be accurately determined.
  • a further embodiment of the invention establishes standards by creating layers or films containing known amounts of analytes of interest. These can then be compared optically with the changes due to blood volume shifts within a probe. Such teclmiques are not possible with conventional pulse oximetry as the signal from the film would simply be filtered out with all other unchanging (DC) signal. This invention overcomes this drawback by using venous measurements, and thus does not require limitation to pulsatile (AC) signal.
  • One exemplary method includes the steps of placing a film that contains a known concentration of an analyte within a probe system, such as one configured for a finger.
  • the absorbance of the finger plus film system is measured for a given number of wavelengths of light.
  • the blood volume of the finger is changed by raising or lowering it with respect to the heart (as outlined elsewhere in this application).
  • the change in absorbance is due to change in blood volume
  • Sufficient wavelengths must be examined to provide specificity for the analyte in question, as there are many potential absorbers in blood. (D-9).
  • Diagnosis of many disorders with anatomic anomalies can be made by the detection of unexpected propagation times, and abnormal propagation delays between right- and left-sided organs.
  • the ability to measure both arterial and venous saturation, as well as arterial and venous pressures, can aid further in investigations.
  • coarctation of the aorta is a common congenital abnormality. It is a narrowing or constriction of the thoracic aorta. It can occur before or after the origin of the left subclavian artery. In either case, the blood pressure will be much lower in the legs than the arms. Because of the constriction, both pressure and flow waves will be greatly delayed in the lower limbs as compared to the upper. If a child has a coarctation proximal to the origin of the left subclavian artery, there will be a significant discrepancy in the pulse and flow wave arrival times of the two arms, with the right preceding the left. (D- 10) .Determination of Dysrhythmias
  • Raising and lowering the other arm by the same amount may give still different changes.
  • raising an arm by a given amount, then raising again by the same amount may give different changes.
  • Raising the other arm by the given amount, then raising again by the same amount may give still different changes.
  • measurement can be taken for lowering.
  • D-l 2 Determination of Aortic Pressure Using the methods and probes of the invention allows the aortic pressure to be determine and the reconstruction of the aortic pressure curve. This can be accomplished through fluid mechanics or changing the reflection wave from the lower extremities. Details of exemplary techniques may be found in United States Patent Nos. 5,265,011, 5,882,311, and 6,010,457 which are hereby incorporated by reference thereto. (D-13). Determination of Carotid Stenosis
  • the carotids are paired arteries rui ing from the chest through the neck to the head, and provide the major source of blood supply to the head and brain. As they have different origins, they have different path lengths for pulse transmission and blood flow from the heart. A significant discrepancy in pulse and flow wave velocity in one carotid artery as compared to the other, or in paired arteries arising from the carotids (such as the facial arteries) suggest a stenosis on the side exhibiting the delay. (D-l 4) .Determination of Peripheral Vascular Disease
  • Peripheral vascular disease results in narrowing of the lumen of peripheral arteries, most commonly the large arteries of the leg. Because of this stenosis, the blood flow characteristics of the artery affected are altered, and thus the pulse and flow waves distal to the obstruction. If a probe is placed distal to the obstruction, significant delays will be noted. Again, this is best done when compared to a paired organ; for example, placing probes on the great toes of both feet to compare the wave characteristics of the arteries of the two legs. (D- 151 Determination of Compartment Syndrome
  • Compartment syndrome is hypoperfusion and resulting ischemia of a body member, commonly an arm or a leg, secondary to swelling caused by tissue damage. If the swelling is significant, the increased volume of the tissue may increase the pressure in the limb (compartment) to such an extent that it cuts off the arterial blood supply. This can be monitored by placing a probe distal to the compartment to measure the pulse and flow wave velocities. This is done preferably with a paired organ to compare the two. Slowing of the pulse wave and increase in the arrival time signal diminishing blood pressure within the compartment, which can eventually result in ischemia and gangrene if steps are not taken to relieve the prsesure, normally with surgery.
  • tone All these factors can be measured by the device and techniques of the invention.
  • An alternative embodiment invention can also be used as a monitor of autonomic activity, sedation, or "depth of anesthesia”.
  • heart rate can be determined by counting the pulsatile arterial signal for a known length of time, or by the ECG impulse.
  • the impedance changes of the chest due to filling and emptying can be measured from the electrocardiogram tracing.
  • negative pressure is created within the chest by lowering of the diaphragm and expansion of the rib cage. This negative pressure causes blood to empty more rapidly from the peripheral into the central veins. This is also the case when respiration is assisted by a negative-pressure device such as the "iron lung".
  • the saturation of the blood in the left side of the heart is completely dependent on the oxygenation of the blood pumped into the lung by the right ventricle.
  • the blood pumped by the left ventricle into the arterial tree maintains its saturation until it reaches the capillary beds of the organs.
  • the blood returning to the right heart is a combination of widely varying saturations (due to the greatly differing extractions of the various organs).
  • the blood pumped by the right ventricle equilibrates over the vast capillary network of the lungs.
  • any differences in saturation of blood in the pulmonary venous system are thoroughly mixed in the left atrium and left ventricle. Breathing an oxygen-enriched gas mixture will change the alveolar concentration of oxygen.
  • a single deep breath after exhalation may be the preferred method. While healthy subjects can inhale a vital capacity (VCH) breath of near total lung capacity (TLC), one cannot expect this of all patients. However, it is not necessary to know the precise oxygen level in the lungs. All that is necessary is to induce a change in saturation. This works well for the determination, as it is much easier to produce saturation change in disease states, because the patient starts farther away from the maximum value of 100%. Preferably, this may be achieved through a breath-hold after the inspiration. Wash-out can be accounted for (one knows that the inspired gas is air), however, this complicates the otherwise simple mathematics. The breath holding is required for only several heartbeats, normally only a few seconds.
  • the concentration of oxygen in the lungs after oxygen inhalation is stable for several heartbeats.
  • the first heartbeat after the inhalation will result in blood of a changed saturation entering the left heart from the lungs (maybe 2nd heartbeat, accounting for "dead space" of the pulmonary veins).
  • This will mix with the blood remaining from the last cardiac ejection.
  • This remaining blood is the end- systolic volume of the left ventricle. It is the end-diastolic volume minus the stroke volume.
  • the saturation of the blood in the left ventricle after mixing is between that of the end-systolic blood and the fresh blood from the lungs.
  • the saturation of the mixed blood is measured after it is ejected to the periphery.
  • the arrival of the blood at the periphery can be judged by the change in saturation from the baseline measurement.
  • the saturation rises depending on the ratio of end-systolic blood to stroke volume. The higher the stroke volume, the faster the change in saturation. This can be looked at as either a "wash in” or
  • a high ejection fraction results in a rapid change in saturation as shown in Figure 40.
  • the rapid change is represented by the relatively steep slope of the plot.
  • a low ejection fraction causes a slow change in saturation as shown in Figure 41.
  • the slow change is represented by a relatively shallow slope of the plot.
  • the timing and ratio of these intervals is determined by the cardiac output - the longer the arrival time of the saturation change (and the greater the interval between finger and toe), the lower the cardiac output. Conversely, the shorter the arrival time of the saturation change (and the shorter the interval between finger and toe), the higher the cardiac output. Note that it is not necessary to maintain a breath-hold through the measurement since only a change in saturation is required.
  • An exemplary determination of cardiac ejection fraction starts with baseline saturation and saturation increasing because of inhalation of oxygen-rich gas:
  • the time constant is the number of heartbeats that it would take to fill the ventricle from the empty state, or empty the ventricle from the full state.
  • an ejection fraction of 50% implies two heartbeats to fill or empty the ventricle, so the time constant is 2 beats.
  • An EF of 80% implies a time constant of 1.25 beats, although this might be expressed more physiologically as 5 heartbeats are 4 time constants.
  • a "worst case" scenario of an EF around 20% corresponds to a time constant of 5 heartbeats. Clinically, some type of calibration may be required, as actual measurements may not correspond exactly to these theoretical values.

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Abstract

L'invention concerne des méthodes permettant de contrôler, de façon non invasive, des caractéristiques physiologiques du sang d'un patient. Pour déterminer la concentration des constituants sanguins, il suffit de comparer l'absorbance du rayonnement avec différents paramètres, tels que la longueur du trajet optique et la pression sanguine. Pour faire varier la pression, il suffit de modifier la hauteur des sondes par rapport au coeur du patient. Pour déterminer le pH sanguin, il suffit de comparer l'absorbance du sang avec différentes longueurs d'ondes. Ces méthodes permettent également de déterminer avec précision la température du sang et, par conséquent, la température centrale du patient. Les méthodes de l'invention permettent également de déterminer, de façon non invasive, des caractéristiques du débit cardiaque et de la pression sanguine.
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WO2003039326A2 (fr) 2003-05-15
AU2001297917B2 (en) 2007-11-01
CA2466012A1 (fr) 2003-05-15
WO2003039326A8 (fr) 2007-09-07
AU2001297917A1 (en) 2003-05-19
EP1450672A4 (fr) 2005-06-22
WO2003039326A3 (fr) 2003-07-24
MXPA04004286A (es) 2004-09-10
JP2005507298A (ja) 2005-03-17

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