| abstract |
An oximeter probe comprises an elongate rod of resilient material longitudinally divided in its central region by a slot or slit into first and second central portions joined at their respective ends, the first central portion having embedded therein a light source 5 and a light detector 6 facing the second central portion, and the second central portion having a reflective surface 7 facing the first central portion, the arrangement being such that light is directed from the light source to the reflective surface and is thence reflected into the light detector, passing twice through the tissue of a part of the body such as the tongue T inserted into the slot or slit. The source may comprise two LED's 5a and 5b emitting red and/or infrared light. |