A new fibre-optic liquid crystal catheter for oxygen saturation and blood flow measurements in the coronary sinus

Abstract

A new catheter for oxygen saturation and thermodilution measurements in the coronary sinus is described. The distinctive feature of this catheter is a new cholesteric liquid crystal (CLC) temperature sensor. Described in brief are the constructive and performance characteristics of this sensor, which permits temperature measurement by means of luminous pulses transmitted through optical fibres. The advantages of this solution are pointed out in terms of patient safety and instrumental integration of the thermodilution and oxygen saturation measurements, both achieved through reflection photometry via optical fibres. Two possible configurations of the new catheter, with a double or a single optical connector, are illustrated and the instruments designed to be used with each catheter, are also described. Preliminary animal experiments on the application of the new catheter for the study of the coronary circulation are finally reported.