Importance

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Abstract

An optical probe is presented for use in measuring pH and oxygen content in blood in a blood vessel within a living body. An elongated flexible optical fiber means is provided which has a proximal end and a distal end. The distal end is adapted to be inserted into a blood vessel. A membrane is secured to the distal end of the optical fiber and receives light from the distal end of the fiber and returns light therethrough to the proximal end. The membrane is constructed of hydrophilic porous material containing a pH sensitive dye. A plurality of microspheres are embedded in and carried by the membrane. These microspheres are constructed hydrophobic material and each carries a fluorescent dye quenchable with oxygen. Consequently, when light is supplied to the proximal end of the optical fiber, it is conveyed to the membrane. This causes the pH sensitive dye to react and light is conveyed through the optical fiber having an intensity level indicative of the pH level in the blood. The oxygen sensitive dye fluoresces and light is transmitted to the proximal end of an intensity which varies with the partial pressure of oxygen.

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First Claim