Integrated NIRS DCS Probe Simultaneous Cerebral Metabolism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) and diffuse correlation spectroscopy (DCS) systems cannot perform simultaneous measurements due to probe size limitations and the need to alternate light sources and detectors, making them impractical for assessing brain function, especially in infants and individuals with hair, and are not sensitive enough for detecting cerebral oxygen metabolism post-brain injury.
Innovation Solution
An integrated device with multiple optical waveguides configured to deliver and detect light at different wavelengths simultaneously, allowing for simultaneous measurement of tissue oxygen saturation and cerebral blood flow index, enabling the calculation of cerebral oxygen metabolism.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If separate NIRS and DCS measurements are performed sequentially with probe shifting, then both measurements can be obtained, but measurement time increases and operational complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines NIRS and DCS measurements into a single integrated probe with multiple optical fibers arranged in specific patterns, enabling simultaneous measurement of oxygen saturation and blood flow at the same tissue location without requiring probe shifting or sequential measurements
Solution Approach 2:
The integrated probe serves multiple functions by incorporating both NIRS source/detector fibers and DCS source/detector fibers in a single device, allowing the probe to perform both oxygen saturation measurement and blood flow measurement simultaneously at the same location
2Measurement precision
If NIRS and DCS measurements are performed sequentially with alternating light sources, then both measurements can be obtained, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges NIRS and DCS optical components into a single integrated probe with multiple fibers, eliminating the need for separate probes and reducing system complexity while maintaining measurement accuracy
Solution Approach 2:
The probe is segmented into multiple independent optical channels with specific fiber arrangements for NIRS and DCS measurements, allowing simultaneous operation without interference between measurement types
3Adaptability or versatility
If traditional probe designs are used, then measurements can be taken, but they cannot be applied to individuals with hair or infants due to size constraints
Solution Approach 1:
The probe uses segmented fiber arrangements with multiple independent NIRS and DCS fiber pairs that can be configured in compact patterns, reducing overall probe size while maintaining measurement capability for diverse subjects including infants and individuals with hair
Solution Approach 2:
The probe employs local quality variations in fiber spacing and arrangement to optimize light delivery and detection at different locations, enabling adaptation to various scalp conditions and subject types without increasing overall probe dimensions
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables more accurate and efficient assessment of brain health and function by providing simultaneous and sensitive measurements of cerebral oxygen metabolism, reducing acquisition time and the need for multiple instruments, and allowing for use on individuals with hair, including infants.
Implementation Method 1
a first optical waveguide configured to deliver light at a first wavelength towards a tissue
Implementation Method 2
configured to deliver light at a second wavelength towards the tissue
Implementation Method 3
a fourth optical waveguide configured to transmit one or more SO2 lights scattered from the tissue
Implementation Method 4
the light source and the detectors of the DCS system were turned on. For the probe system described by Lin P. Y. et al., the source and detector fibers for DCS were on the same probe as the NIRS source and detector fibers
Data Source
AI summary
There is provided herewith an apparatus, probe, and method for the combination of near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) and diffuse correlation spectroscopy (DCS). The apparatus, probe and method allow for the simultaneous detection of NIRS and DCS.