Platform for all-polymer-based pulse-oximetry sensor

The high risk of fatal infections via inappropriately disinfected medical equipment in operative scenarios are progressively prompting for better sterilization procedures in reusable equipment. The cost for thoroughly decontaminating skin-contact medical equipment such as finger-tip pulse oximeters after each use can cost hospitals several dollars per use per device; however, disposable pulse oximeter sensors at appropriately low cost can significantly alleviate healthcare expenses while virtually eliminating the risk of infections. A polymer-based pulse oximeter sensor unit that can replace traditional reusable finger-tip sensors is proposed. The unit consists of an organic photosensor module co-fabricated with an organic light-emitting-diode module under a single process on a polymer substrate. The platform is lightweight, flexible, robust, and potentially recyclable. The design considerations, architecture, and preliminary device performance results are presented. The all-polymer nature of the system promises opportunity to manufacture disposable pulse oximeter sensors at favorably low costs to replace traditional sensor clips.