Optimization of continuous-wave NIRS devices for placental monitoring. A simulation study

TL;DR

This study develops a Monte Carlo simulation framework to optimize continuous-wave NIRS device parameters for effective placental monitoring, aiming to improve non-invasive assessment of deep tissue oxygenation.

Contribution

The paper introduces a novel simulation framework to optimize CW-NIRS device parameters specifically for placental monitoring, enhancing potential clinical applications.

Findings

Framework evaluates sensitivity of CW-NIRS for placenta

Optimization of acquisition parameters before clinical use

Potential for improved non-invasive placental oxygenation monitoring

Abstract

Near infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) is an optical technique that is widely used to monitor tissue oxygenation. These devices take advantage of the near infrared light to monitor deep tissues like brain, muscle or placenta. In this study, we developed a Monte Carlo framework to evaluate the sensitivity of continuous-wave (CW) NIRS devices for monitoring the placenta which a deep layer in the maternal abdomen. This framework can be used to optimize CW-NIRS acquisition parameters (integration time, source detector separation) before going into clinical applications.