Near infrared spectroscopy and the future of medicine In the field of medicine, near infrared reflectance spectroscopy, NIR spectroscopy or holds an essential place. NIR spectroscopy is currently used as a noninvasive assessment of brain function. With the use of an NIR spectrometer, we can detect certain changes in the hemoglobin of the blood in the brain. This means that in some cases, NIR spectroscopy can even partially replace MRI.
Whereas, MRIs are not recommended for use on infants, NIR spectroscopy is safe for infants. Otherwise, an NIR spectrometer is smaller and therefore much more portable than the MRI machine. Indeed, the wireless devices that come with NIR spectrometers allow physicians to move freely in the study patients. But this does not mean that the NIR spectrometers fully replace MRI. NIR spectrometers can not read the cortical tissue, while MRI is used mainly to measure brain activity as a whole.
Using several different wavelengths in the spectrum with the frequencies determined in time and / or spatially specific patterns of blood flow, the NIR spectrometer may be able to benefit from volume and oxygenation in the brain. These measures take the form of an oximetry. Oximetry by NIR spectroscopy methods include the detection of circulatory problems, discovery and estimation of breast tumors and optimizing applications in sports medicine.
Increasingly, the NIR spectroscopy is used in pediatric care and to help patients with post-operative cardiac surgery. NIR spectroscopy is also able to measure venous oxygen saturation (SvO2) levels, which is revealed by cardiac output, hemoglobin, oxygen consumption and others. Using NIR spectroscopy, doctors and physicians are provided with the necessary data on cardiac patients. The non-invasive, painless and non-radiation methods employed by NIR spectroscopy presents a very viable option for treatment of patients.
NIR spectrometers used today advanced optics for excellent sensitivity and stability. Designs for NIR spectrometers are continuously improved so that they can provide high quality, consistent results with less downtime. In addition, since the need for more increases NIR spectrometers, NIR spectrometer can now go directly from the research to be built.
With the entire industry of medical aid behind her, NIR spectroscopy methods and NIR spectrometers best on the market is sure to get better and better.
Posted on March 30, 2010.