Delft researchers have developed a wireless sensor that measures the oxygen content in the brains of premature babies in a simple and inexpensive way. According to TU Delft, the devices with which this has been done so far are large and clumsy and consist of all kinds of cords that babies can get entangled in.
“In addition, the machines are extremely expensive, and the attached sensors often damage the fragile baby skin when they are pulled off. Reason enough to develop a better technique for monitoring the oxygen level in the baby brain,” said the researchers.
Doctors need to keep an eye on premature babies. Up to 50 percent of premature children suffer brain damage due to a lack of oxygen. That in turn can lead to neurological problems.
The new soft and bendable sensor can be stuck to a baby’s scalp. The sensor sends data wirelessly to an app, which then signals when a doctor or nurse needs to intervene.
By: ANP | Photo: ANP
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