Oxygen saturation sensor in premature babies

Until now, the devices for monitoring the oxygen saturation of the brains of premature infants have been large and clumsy, with cables that can entangle babies and adhesive sensors that, if removed, can damage babies’ delicate skin.

In addition, the purchase of existing devices involves high costs. The newly developed sensor has a number of advantages. It is not only very cheap, but also easy to use. In addition to TU Delft, scientists and doctors from Northwestern University and the Lurie Children’s Hospital of Chicago also participated in the development.

Wireless sensor measures oxygen saturation

The researchers worked with a doctor and an electrical engineer to develop a soft, bendable wireless sensor. When glued to the baby’s scalp, the sensor molds to the shape of the skull. After use, it can be easily removed from the skin. Externally, the sensor is a bit like the smart patch.

The measurement data collected by the sensor, which consists of four photo diodes, is sent wirelessly to an app. If the data give cause to do so, this app sends a signal to the doctor or nurse to intervene. “The sensors not only monitor regional oxygen levels in the brain, but also measure oxygen levels in the arteries throughout the body. In this way, the medical staff not only receives information about these two separate systems, but also about the interaction between them, ”says researcher Alina Rwei of TU Delft.

Two of the four photodiodes in the sensor look deep into the brain. The other two sensors are for more superficial measurements. The combination of these measurements provides information about the blood flow throughout the body. During the testing phase, Rwei also tested the sensor on her own baby. “It worked exactly as I hoped,” said Alina. The investigation is also recent published.

Although the sensor has been specifically developed for measuring the oxygen saturation in the brains of premature babies, it is also suitable for adults who require regular oxygen monitoring.

Economical solution

As already mentioned, the wireless sensor for measuring oxygen saturation is not only simple and comfortable to use, but also a lot cheaper than existing devices. Hospitals now often pay up to 10,000 euros for such a machine. The flexible sensor, on the other hand, costs only about 25 euros. “In developing countries in particular, this could increase people’s access to this type of technology, which will hopefully prevent many health problems,” says Rwei.

In the coming period, the development team will focus on the production, in large numbers, of the sensor. For this, the American part of the development team has started a start-up.