A Monte Carlo platform for the optical modeling of pulse oximetry

We investigated a custom Monte Carlo (MC) platform in the generation of opto-physiological models of motion artefact and perfusion in pulse oximetry. With the growing availability and accuracy of tissue optical properties in literatures, MC simulation of light-tissue interaction is providing increasingly valuable information for optical bio-monitoring research. Motion-induced artefact and loss of signal quality during low perfusion are currently the primary limitations in pulse oximetry. While most attempts to circumvent these issues have focused on signal post-processing techniques, we propose the development of improved opto-physiological models to include the characterisation of motion artefact and low perfusion. In this stage of the research, a custom MC platform is being developed for its use in determining the effects of perfusion, haemodynamics and tissue-probe optical coupling on transillumination at different positions of the human finger. The results of MC simulations indicate a useful and predictable output from the platform.