Physiological monitoring of brain function with a broadband, multifiber, continuous-wave optical system

An instrument designed for physiological monitoring should be relatively inexpensive, take readings rapidly and be able to discriminate optical signals due to specific chromophores. A cw, broadband, multifiber system can potentially meet these requirements. The use of a steady-state Light source rather than making time-resolved or frequency-domain measurements means that the system is relatively inexpensive. Simultaneous detection of signals from multiple optical fibers means that multiple measurements can be made simultaneously. By making broadband measurements (675 - 925 nm) it is possible to discriminate amongst the many chromophores which contribute the optical signal. We have developed a cw, broadband, multifiber system and are testing it in vivo. A possible application is noninvasive, optical monitoring of the brain which has the potential to be a real-time, noninvasive method for clinical monitoring as well as being a technique for studying fundamental aspects of brain function.