Using pulse oximetry method as a non invasive indicator of blood perfusion in neonates

In critically ill neonates, the risk associated with rapid changes in oxygen saturation is high where peripheral perfusion may drop below the minimum required for tissue oxygenation and cellular respiration. Using pulse oximetry is appealing because it is non-invasive and easy to use. However, optimal pulse oximetry accuracy depends on the selection of a monitoring site characterized by good perfusion with oxygen saturation. One hundred and fifty (89 male and 61 female) preterm newborns regardless ethnic group and delivery norm were recruited in this study. The study design in this research was the readings of the oxygen saturation and perfusion index during their hospitalization. A comparison study was to evaluate the perfusion and oxygen saturation of the palm and foot. Mathematical modeling was used to model the correlation between the oxygen saturation and blood perfusion. With the analysis made, perfusion index correlates positively with oxygen saturation for both palm and foot sensor (r = 0.91, r = 0.92) respectively. Nevertheless, the placement between foot and palm showed no significant difference (p < 0.2). As a conclusion, pulse oximetry method is a useful tool to indicate the blood perfusion in neonates.