Systems and methods for measuring fetal cerebral oxygenation

摘要

Optoacoustic diagnostic systems, devices, and methods are described. A system may comprise a console unit and a handheld probe. The console unit comprises a controller, a processor, a photodiode array, an acoustic processing subsystem, and a cooling subsystem. The probe directs light signals from the photodiode array to patient tissue. The light signals each have different wavelengths selected based on the physiological parameter of interest. The probe further comprises an acoustic transducer that receives acoustic signals generated in response to the directed light signals. The probe may comprise a finger-held working end that can be directed to the skull of a fetus within the uterus during labor. The probe can then accurately determine blood oxygenation of the fetus to determine if a caesarian section is necessary.

主权项

1. A method of monitoring oxygenation of a fetus, the method comprising:
inserting a sensor into a vagina, the sensor comprising a light output and an acoustic transducer; and positioning the sensor over an anterior fontanel of a head of the fetus, wherein the light output of the sensor emits light to the head of the fetus and the acoustic transducer of the sensor detects acoustic pressure generated in response to the emitted light, and wherein the sensor determines oxygenation of the fetus in response to the detected acoustic pressure.