The researchers want to use optical technologies to non-invasively detect blood flow that can tell the onset of blood loss. The research can measure blood flow in stable premature infants in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit over the duration of several weeks.
The technologies are Laser Speckle Imaging and Diffuse Optical Spectroscopy.
Laser Speckle Imaging non-contact imaging technology, is sensitive to blood flow in superficial tissues. Diffuse Optical Spectroscopy, a probe-based contact technology like pulse oximetry, measures hemoglobin concentrations and states deeper below the skin surface.
