An analysis on the theory of pulse oximetry by Monte Carlo simulation

The pulse oximetry is a kind of electronic instrument that measures the oxygen saturation of arterial blood and pulse rate by non-invasive techniques. It enables prompt recognition of hypoxemia. In a conventional transmittance type pulse oximeter, the absorption of light by oxygenated and reduced hemoglobin is measured at two wavelength 660nm and 940nm. But the accuracy and measuring range of the pulse oximeter can not meet the requirement of clinical application. There are limitations in the theory of pulse oximetry, which is proved by Monte Carlo method. The mean paths are calculated in the Monte Carlo simulation. The results prove that the mean paths are not the same between the different wavelengths.