Optical probe for oximetry measurements
Inventors
Ben Dor, Baruch • Solt, David • Zubkov, Leonid
Assignees
Publication Number
US-11622691-B2
Publication Date
2023-04-11
Expiration Date
2038-08-24
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Abstract
An optical probe comprises three optical elements including at least one light source and at least one light detector. The three optical elements are positioned in a triangular configuration. Three optical fibers are each coupled to one of the three optical elements and have an exposed distal end portion. At least one light shroud is disposed radially around the exposed distal end portions of at least one of the optical fibers coupled to the at least one light source.
Core Innovation
The invention concerns an optical probe designed for oximetry measurements, particularly for the detection of hematomas related to head trauma. It features three optical elements—comprising at least one light source and at least one light detector—arranged in a triangular configuration. Each optical element is coupled to an optical fiber, and at least one light shroud is positioned around the distal end of the fiber connected to a light source to reduce interference from external light.
The background identifies a critical need for prompt identification of traumatic intracranial hematomas, especially in time-sensitive trauma scenarios where portable, noninvasive equipment can facilitate rapid diagnosis at the scene. Traditional probes, especially those used in areas with hair coverage, often struggle to achieve accurate measurements due to hair blocking the light path. Existing oximetry methods can be confounded by unwanted light reflections and lack the structural integrity for reliable contact with the scalp.
This invention addresses those challenges by utilizing a triangular probe configuration for stable, direct scalp contact, and by incorporating light shrouds—such as cylindrical or conical shields with light-absorbing inner surfaces—around the light sources to block stray or reflected light. These enhancements increase measurement reliability and distinguish between extracranial (scalp) and intracranial hematomas by comparing signals measured at different source-detector separations. The probe design can also include single-use covers for hygiene, and may be connected with additional sensors for broader patient monitoring.
Claims Coverage
The patent comprises two independent claims, each outlining distinct inventive features relating to the configuration of the optical probe, its components, and arrangements for improved oximetry measurements.
Triangular configuration of three optical elements with fiber-coupled light shroud
The probe comprises three optical elements, including at least one light source and at least one light detector, arranged in a triangular configuration. - Three optical fibers, each coupled to one of the optical elements, have an exposed distal end portion. - At least one light shroud with an inner surface is disposed radially around and spaced from the exposed distal end portion of at least one optical fiber coupled to a light source. - The light shroud comprises an opening for the optical fiber to extend through, and the distal tip of the optical fiber is approximately on the same plane as the distal edge of the light shroud.
Probe with base, removable cover with bosses, and light shroud with light-absorbing layer
The probe consists of a base housing three optical elements (at least one light source and at least one light detector) arranged in a triangular configuration. - A cover is removably coupled to the base and includes three optical fibers, each with an exposed distal tip. - The cover has three bosses, each projecting and covering a portion of an optical fiber. - At least one light shroud is coupled to a distal end of one of the bosses, disposed around an exposed distal tip of an optical fiber, and includes: - An opening for the fiber - A light-absorbing layer disposed on the inside surface of the shroud, comprised of a material that absorbs more light than the rest of the shroud.
The principal inventive features lie in the combination of a triangular element configuration, specific fiber and shroud arrangements for interference reduction, and the modular construction facilitating removability and improved light absorption at measurement points.
Stated Advantages
Provides accurate and reliable oximetry measurements by reducing unwanted light reflections through the use of light shrouds with light-absorbing inner surfaces.
Allows consistent and reliable direct contact with the scalp, including in areas covered by hair, through the triangular configuration and hairbrush-like arrangement of optical fibers.
Enables differentiation between extracranial and intracranial hematomas by utilizing measurements at different source-detector separations.
Improves sanitary conditions and reduces equipment costs by allowing disposable covers to be used on the probe.
Facilitates diagnosis and monitoring in portable, out-of-hospital, and field conditions, which is critical for rapid trauma assessment and treatment.
Reduces or eliminates the need for computed tomography (CT) scans, thereby minimizing patient exposure to radiation, which is particularly beneficial for children and pregnant women.
Documented Applications
Detection and classification of scalp (extracranial) and intracranial hematomas in head trauma patients.
Full head scan for brain hematoma diagnosis using near-infrared spectroscopy.
Full head scan for local cerebral oximetry measurement.
Bilateral forehead cerebral oximetry and hypoxia monitoring.
Local tissue oximetry monitoring in extremities such as arms or legs.
Heart rate and heart rate variability monitoring.
Respiration rate monitoring.
Bilateral forehead cerebral edema monitoring.
Sedation monitoring during field surgery.
Use on animal subjects for oximetry measurements, considering different hair density and optical fiber diameter.
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