Simultaneous multimodal measurement of physiological function

摘要

A method of measuring physiological function of a group of body cells, includes the step of selecting a detectable agent capable of absorbing or emitting a measurable electromagnetic emission. The agent is introduced into body fluid which contacts the group of body cells. The absorbance or emission is measured, and physiological function is determined based on measurement of the absorbance or emission. Measurements may be made noninvasively or with the use of a modified pulmonary artery catheter. Multiple agents which can be distinguished from each other can be utilized simultaneously to measure multiple physiological functions at the same time.