To obtain information about a warranty, if any, for this product, contact Nellcor
Puritan Bennett Technical Services or your local Nellcor Puritan Bennett
representative.
NELLCOR PURITAN BENNETT is a trademark of Nellcor Puritan Bennett
Incorporated.
Covered by one or more of the following U.S. Patents (and foreign equivalents):
4,621,643; 4,653,498; 4,700,708; 4,770,179; 4,802,486; 4,869,254; 4,911,167; 4,928,692;
4,934,372; 5,228,440; and 5,247,932.
5.5Schematic, Assembly, and Block Diagrams .................................. 5-36
iii
SECTION 1: INTRODUCTION
1.1Manual Overview
1.2Warnings, Cautions, and Notes
1.3Device Description
1.4Routine Maintenance
1.5Cleaning
1.6Spare Parts
1.1MANUAL OVERVIEW
This manual contains information about servicing the N-400 Fetal Oxygen
Saturation Monitor. Only qualified service personnel should service this
product. Before servicing the device, read the operator’s manual carefully for
a thorough understanding of operation.
1.2WARNINGS, CAUTIONS, AND NOTES
This manual uses three terms that are important for proper operation of the
device: Warning, Caution, and Note.
1.2.1 Warning
A warning precedes an action that may result in injury or death to the
patient or user. Warnings are boxed and highlighted in boldface type.
1.2.2 Caution
A caution precedes an action that may result in damage to, or malfunction of,
the device. Cautions are highlighted in boldface type.
1.2.3 Note
A note gives information that requires special attention.
1.3 DEVICE DESCRIPTION
The NELLCOR PURITAN BENNETT® Fetal Oxygen Saturation Monitor,
model N-400, measures functional oxygen saturation of arterial hemoglobin
(FSpO2) and pulse rate in fetuses. The N-400 monitors fetal FSpO2 and pulse
rate noninvasively to the fetus during labor and delivery, with measurements
updated at each qualified pulse.
The system consists of three components: N-400 Fetal Oxygen Saturation
Monitor, N-400 Fetal Patient Module, and a NELLCOR PURITANBENNETT Fetal Oxygen Sensor. The N-400 also provides analog and digital
outputs for external data recording devices. The N-400 Fetal Patient Module
provides initial amplification of the fetal oximetry signal. This patient module
has a connector for the sensor and a cable that connects into the N-400 front
panel.
1-1
Section 1: Introduction
The N-400 provides immediate use after power-up, without need for operator
calibration. Features include:
•Automatic self-test and error messages.
•Automatic oximetry calibration.
•Visible oximetry displays.
The N-400 provides the operator with the capability to tailor the operating
parameters for specific clinical applications.
Capabilities include:
•Audible alarm (default state is OFF), with adjustable alarm volume.
•Operator-configured visible and audible low-saturation alarm limit (the
default alarm limit is set to zero).
•An audible indicator for both FSpO2 and pulse rate: a tone signals each
pulse and its pitch varies with changes in FSpO2. This audible indicator
has an adjustable volume. (The default state of this feature is OFF.)
•Two oximetry operating modes that change measurement averaging time
to suit varied clinical applications.
•Analog output of FSpO2 saturation and pleth waveform data.
•Digital output of FSpO2 saturation, pulse rate, pleth, and signal quality
data.
1.4 ROUTINE MAINTENANCE
Nellcor Puritan Bennett recommends the following inspection, performance
and safety checks once every two years. These checks should be performed by
qualified service personnel.
Inspection Checks:
•Inspect the monitor for any mechanical and/or functional damage
•Inspect the safety relevant labels for legibility
•Inspect the fuse to verify compliance with the rated current and breaking
characteristics
Performance Checks:
•Verify that the alarms function as described in the Operator’s Manual
•Using the FSpO2 Tester, Model SRC-4, verify the operation of the
monitor by following the instructions in the SRC-4 Technical Manual,
Guide to Operation.
1-2
1.5CLEANING
1.6SPARE PARTS
Section 1: Introduction
Safety Checks: Using a Safety Analyzer, check the following limits:
•Ground Wire Resistance to a limit of ≤ 0.2 Ohms
•Enclosure Leakage Current in normal conditions to a limit of ≤100µAmps
•Patient Leakage Current in normal conditions to a limit of ≤20µAmps
with Patient Module connected
•Patient Leakage Current in a single fault condition, Mains voltage on the
applied part, to a limit of ≤100µAmps
CAUTION: Do not immerse the N-400 in liquid or use caustic or
abrasive cleaners.
To clean the surface of an N-400, dampen a cloth with a commercial
nonabrasive cleaner and wipe all monitor surfaces. Do not spray or pour
liquid directly on the N-400 or its accessories. Do not allow any liquid to
come in contact with the power connector, fuse holder, or switches. Do not
allow any liquid to penetrate switches, connectors, or openings in the chassis.
Contact Nellcor Puritan Bennett Technical Services or your local Nellcor
Puritan Bennett representative to obtain information about the availability of
spare parts for the N-400.
1-3
SECTION 2: TROUBLESHOOTING
2.1Introduction
2.2Error Codes
2.3Troubleshooting Guide
2.1INTRODUCTION
This section contains instrument indications, and trouble symptoms and
probable causes. There are two primary symptoms of malfunctions: those that
cause the instrument to not operate at all, and those that cause erratic
behavior. The first kind is a result of internal failures; the second can be
caused by external factors, such as improper sensor use or external electrical
interference, as well as by internal failures. All internal failure service needs
must be performed by an authorized Nellcor Puritan Bennett Service Center.
Contact Nellcor Puritan Bennett Technical Services or your local Nellcor
Puritan Bennett representative for assistance.
2.2ERROR CODES
Table 1 lists error codes, their probable cause, and recommended action.
If changing the Line Voltage
selection does not correct the error,
contact NPB Technical Services.
The error can be cleared by pressing
any front panel button. Contact
NPB Technical Services.
While installing new PROMs, the
error can be cleared by pressing any
front panel button. If the error
occurs in the field, contact NPB
Technical Services.
The error can be cleared by pressing
any front panel button. In the field,
contact NPB Technical Services.
While installing new PROMs, the
error can be cleared by pressing any
front panel button. If the error
occurs in the field, contact NPB
Technical Services.
Check all front panel buttons for
proper operation. If the error does
not clear, contact NPB Technical
Services.
Change line voltage selection.
Contact NPB Technical Services
2-1
Section 2: Troubleshooting
Table 1: Error Codes (continued)
ERROR CODEPROBABLE CAUSEINSTRUCTIONS
ERR 10Memory Failure or a Processor
80C186 problem.
ERR 119ROM run-time failure (Memory
Failure)
ERR 120RAM run-time failure (Memory
Failure)
ERR 121Clock Failure.The error can be cleared by pressing
ERR PBInternal communications problem.Turn the ON/Standby Switch to
ERR SENThe sensor is not compatible with
the system configuration.
Contact NPB Technical Services
Turn the ON/Standby Switch to
Standby and the mains ON/OFF
switch to OFF. Turn back to ON
after 5 seconds. If error is not
cleared, contact NPB Technical
Services.
Turn the ON/Standby Switch to
Standby and the mains ON/OFF
switch to OFF. Turn back to ON
after 5 seconds. If error is not
cleared, contact NPB Technical
Services.
any front panel button. In the field,
contact NPB Technical Services.
Standby and the mains ON/OFF
switch to OFF. Turn back to ON
after 5 seconds. If error is not
cleared, contact NPB Technical
Services.
Replace with the correct sensor.
The error codes in Tables 2 and 3 are for information use only by NPB
Technical Services personnel and are divided into two categories.
INFORMATIONAL—The instrument continues to operate, but does not post
numbers. The ERR code may be cleared with the push of any front panel
button and it would be desirable for the clinician to record the ERR number
for our information.
OPERATIONAL—The instrument stops posting numbers, shuts down the
LEDs and must be reset by turning the Mains AC Switch OFF and then ON
again after approximately 5 seconds. It is also desirable to record the ERR
number for information purposes.
Table 2: Informational—Service Only
ERROR CODEPROBABLE CAUSEINSTRUCTIONS
ERR 122Software ring buffer supporting
external communications is filled.
Data may be discarded.
Slow running Processor clock, or a
memory problem, or an internal
software error. See above for
clearing of error.
2-2
Section 2: Troubleshooting
Table 3 - Operational—Service Only
ERROR CODEPROBABLE CAUSEINSTRUCTIONS
ERR 101, 201,
301, 401, 501,
802
ERR 102, 203,
302, 402, 503
ERR 103, 104,
105, 205, 305,
404, 505, 601,
801
ERR 106, 206,
306, 406, 506
ERR 107, 207,
307, 407, 507
ERR 108, 208,
308, 408, 508
ERR 109RTDIAG: Ping FailureS/W Failure
ERR 110RTDIAG: Told to halt via IPC
ERR 112RTDIAG: Interrupt vector errorSee ERR 101
ERR 113POST: Bad A/D startA/D converter problem
ERR 114RTDIAG: Stack checkS/W Failure or may be a bad
ERR 115Non-volatile log error in the Header
ERR 116Non-volatile log error in the DataS/W Failure or Smartwatch
ERR 117Release of a long message bufferS/W Failure
ERR 202IPC Release Long Message BufferSee ERR 101
ERR 209, 511Invalid ParameterSee ERR 101
ERR 210Invalid OffsetSee ERR 101
ERR 211No Ping MessageSee ERR 101
ERR 409, 502Release Long Message BufferSee ERR 101
ERR 512Invalid SpO2 ModeSee ERR 101
ERR 602TIMER_INV_MSGINITS/W Error
ERR 603TIMER_INV_RESTARTS/W Error
ERR 604TIMER_INV_CANCELS/W Error
ERR 701IPC Send ErrorSee ERR 101
ERR 702IPC Get Long Message BufferSee ERR 101
ERR 703Internal programming error in
ERR 704Invalid data to a case statement.
ERR 705A/D OverrunA/D chip failure
ERR 803IPC Release Long Message Buffer,
IPC Get Long Message Buffer,
Internal Error, Buffer Starvation
IPC Invalid MessageSee ERR 101
IPC SendSee ERR 101
IPC ReplySee ERR 101
IPC Queue CreateSee ERR 101
IPC ReceiveSee ERR 101
message (test hook)
format
devices programming
Default executed.
Internal Error, corrupt pointer
Slow running Processor clock, or a
memory problem, or an internal
software error. See above for
clearing of error.
S/W Failure
memory chip
S/W Failure or Smartwatch
S/W Error
S/W Error
S/W Error
2-3
Section 2: Troubleshooting
Table 3 - Operational—Service Only (continued)
ERROR CODEPROBABLE CAUSEINSTRUCTIONS
ERR 804IPC Routing Problem - Destination
ERR 901Interrupt occurred SYS_DIVIDE_0S/W Error
ERR 903Interrupt occurred
ERR 904Interrupt occurred
ERR 905Assert macro SYS_ASSERTS/W Error
ERR 906Internal coding error in IPC
ERR 907RTXC returned an error SYS_RTXC S/W Error
ERR 908Non-volatile log memory integrity
ERR 999Could not convert the major and
2.3TROUBLESHOOTING GUIDE
CPU incorrect
SYS_INVALID_OPCODE
SYS_INVALID_INT
SYS_XRECV_TIMEOUT
failure
minor error codes to a number
between 0 and 998
S/W Error
H/W Error; Bad memory or memory
controller
H/W Error; Bad memory or memory
controller
S/W Error
H/W Error; Smartwatch failure.
S/W Error
The following paragraphs discuss potential difficulties and suggestions for
resolving them. Refer to the Sensor Quick Guide and the Sensor Placement
Guide for complete instructions on sensor use. If the difficulty persists,
contact Nellcor Puritan Bennett Technical Services or your local Nellcor
Puritan Bennett representative.
Potential Problems and Resolutions
1. N-400 does not turn on (that is, after the front panel
ON/STANDBY switch is placed in the ON position).
•Check that the mains (AC) ON/OFF switch is set to ON.
•Check mains (AC) connection. Check that N-400 is connected
properly to mains (AC) supply.
•Check mains (AC) fuses.
2. Patient module cannot be connected.
•Use only a NELLCOR PURITAN BENNETT N-400 Fetal Patient
Module.
•Connector pins may be bent; replace with another N-400 Fetal
Patient Module.
2-4
Section 2: Troubleshooting
3. Sensor Unplugged indicator is On.
•Check connection between the sensor and patient module.
•Check connection of patient module cable to N-400.
•If connections are okay, use a new sensor.
•If problem persists, use a new patient module.
4. Sensor Lifted indicator is On.
•Sensor is not making adequate contact at the sensor site on the
fetus.
»Assess sensor placement relative to fetal head position.
»Assess sensor depth relative to the fetal presenting part;
advance or withdraw the sensor as indicated in Sensor
Placement Guide.
»If the indicator does not respond to advancing or withdrawing
the sensor, remove the sensor and place a new sensor, as
directed in the Sensor Placement Guide.
5.Searching indicator is on; Pulse Amplitude appears to indicate
pulses, but there is no FSpO2 or pulse rate displayed.
•Check the fetus.
•The signal quality is below the acceptable threshold requirement
necessary to post data on the display.
»Excessive maternal or fetal motion may be interfering
with signal quality. If possible, keep the patient still.
»The sensor may be improperly positioned. Assess sensor
location and determine appropriate adjustment.
»The fetus’s perfusion may be too low for the N-400 to detect
an acceptable pulse.
•If searching indicator continues to display after evaluations and
adjustments:
»The sensor may be damaged; replace it.
»The patient module may be damaged; try another Fetal
Patient Module.
2-5
Section 2: Troubleshooting
6.FSpO2 or pulse rate change rapidly; Pulse Amplitude indicator is
7. Displayed pulse rate does not agree with that of an electronic
erratic.
•Check the fetus.
•Excessive maternal or fetal patient motion may be making it
impossible for the N-400 to find a pulse pattern. If possible, keep the
patient still.
•Check whether the sensor is positioned properly, and reposition it if
necessary.
•Set the N-400 response time for Mode 1.
WARNING: Do not use an Electrosurgical Unit (ESU) with
the N-400 in use. An improperly grounded ESU could cause
surface skin burns on the fetus.
•A nearby electrosurgical unit (ESU) may be interfering with
performance.
fetal heart rate monitor.
•Excessive maternal or fetal motion may be making it impossible for
the N-400 to find a pulse pattern. If possible, minimize patient
movement.
•Ensure that the sensor is properly positioned on the fetus.
•Oxygen saturation greater than 80% and/or pulse rate less than 100
could indicate that the values are maternal in origin. Check sensor
placement to ensure that it is properly positioned on the fetus.
8.Displayed fetal FSpO2 does not correlate with the SaO2 value
calculated from a fetal scalp blood sample measurement on a
blood gas analyzer.
• Close correlation requires simultaneous blood sampling and pulse
oximeter measurements from the same arterial supply. Blood
samples exposed to air during the sampling process or taken from
the scalp may not accurately reflect true arterial values.
•The SaO2 calculation may not have been correctly adjusted for the
effects of pH, temperature, PaCO2, 2,3-DPG, or the presence of fetal
hemoglobin. Check whether calculations have been corrected
appropriately for relevant variables. (See the Principles of Operation
section of the N-400 operator’s manual for more information.) In
general, calculated SaO2values are not as reliable as direct CoOximeter or pulse oximeter measurements.
•N-400 FSpO2 accuracy can be affected by incorrect sensor
application or use, significant levels of dysfunctional hemoglobins,
excessive patient movement, venous pulsation, or nearby
electrosurgical interference. Observe all instructions, warnings, and
cautions in the N-400 operator’s manual and in the Sensor
Placement Guide.
2-6
Section 2: Troubleshooting
•Oxygen saturation greater than 80% and/or pulse rate less than 100
could indicate that the values are maternal in origin. Check sensor
placement to ensure that it is properly positioned on the fetus.
9.Displayed fetal FSpO2does not correlate with the SaO2value
calculated from a fetal scalp blood sample measurement on a CoOximeter.
•Close correlation requires simultaneous blood sampling and pulse
oximeter measurements from the same arterial supply. Blood
samples exposed to air during the sampling process or taken from
the scalp may not accurately reflect true arterial values.
•Fractional measurements may not have been converted to functional
measurements before the comparison was made. The N-400, as well
as other two-wavelength oximeters, measures functional saturation.
Multi-wavelength oximeters measure fractional saturation.
Fractional measurements must be converted to functional
measurements for comparison. Refer to the equation for this
conversion in the Principles of Operation section of the N-400
operator’s manual.
•Oxygen saturation greater than 80% and/or pulse rate less than 100
could indicate that the values are maternal in origin. Check sensor
placement to ensure that it is properly positioned on the fetus.
10. FSpO2 saturation greater than 80%.
•Check sensor placement to ensure that it is properly positioned on
the fetus.
•Ensure that the displayed FSpO2 is fetal and not maternal in origin.
2-7
SECTION 3: PACKING FOR SHIPMENT
3.1General Instructions
3.2Repacking in Original Carton
3.3Repacking in a Different Carton
Should you need to ship the N-400 monitor for any reason, follow the
instructions in this section.
3.1GENERAL INSTRUCTIONS
Prior to shipping the device, contact Nellcor Puritan Bennett Technical
Services for a returned goods authorization (RGA) number. Mark the
shipping carton and any shipping forms with the RGA number.
Pack the monitor carefully. Failure to follow the instructions in this section
may result in loss or damage not covered by the Nellcor Puritan Bennett
warranty. If the original shipping carton is not available, use another
suitable carton or call Nellcor Puritan Bennett Technical Services to obtain a
shipping carton.
3.2REPACKING IN ORIGINAL CARTON
If available, use the original carton and packing materials. Pack the monitor
as follows:
1.Place the monitor and, if necessary, accessory items in original
packaging.
2.Place in shipping carton and seal carton with packaging tape.
3.Label carton with shipping address, return address, and RGA number.
3.3REPACKING IN A DIFFERENT CARTON
If the original carton is not available:
1.Place the monitor in plastic bag.
2.Locate a corrugated cardboard shipping carton with at least 200 pounds
per square inch (psi) bursting strength.
3.Fill the bottom of the carton with at least two inches of packing material.
4.Place the bagged unit on the layer of packing material and fill the box
completely with packing material.
5.Seal the carton with packing tape.
6.Label carton with shipping address, return address, and RGA number.
3-1
SECTION 4: SPECIFICATIONS
4.1Performance
4.2Controls
4.3Alarms
4.4Audio Pulse
4.5Response Modes
4.6ECG
4.7Switches
4.8Data I/O
4.9Connectors
4.10Electrical
4.11Physical
4.12Environmental
4.1PERFORMANCE
4.1.1 Display Ranges:
Pulse Rate: 0 to 250 beats/minute
FSpO2: 0% to 100%
4.1.2 Accuracy:
Pulse Rate: 30 to 240 beats/minute, ±3 bpm
4.1.3 Sensor:
FSpO2 Calibration and Reproducibility:
Calibration of the NELLCOR PURITAN BENNETT N-400 Fetal Oxygen
Saturation Monitor was accomplished through controlled hypoxia studies in a
piglet model. The calibration was validated in an independent animal study
of a different group of piglets and in a multi-center human study comparing
N-400 readings to simultaneous laboratory arterial blood saturation values
obtained on severely cyanotic human infants and children.
Reproducibility of system was evaluated under conditions of actual use in a
series of dual sensor studies, in which two sensors were placed
simultaneously on a human fetus during active labor.
The resulting reproducibility was 1 SD = 6.0%. Nominally, 68% of the
measurements across the population will be within ±1 SD (standard
deviation).
Heating: Sensor power dissipation is less than 80 mW
total heat dissipation by LEDs
(less than 3.0˚C temperature rise).
4-1
Section 4: Specifications
4.2CONTROLS
Front Panel: ON/STANDBY switch, control knob, Audio Alarm Off button,
Low Saturation Limit button, ECG Display button, Response Time button
Rear Panel: Mains (AC) ON/OFF switch, Decrease (zero) button,
Increase (full-scale) button, DIP switches (used to set analog output scale,
RS-232 format, and baud rate)
4.3 ALARMS
The audible alarm default state is OFF. Audible and visible alarms for low
oxygen saturation; audible alarm and visual indicators for loss of pulse.
Audible alarms are interrupted briefly for detected pulses; the volume is
adjustable. See Alarms in the N-400 operator’s manual.
4.4AUDIO PULSE
Default volume is OFF. If enabled, and a signal from the sensor is present, an
audible beep sounds with each detected pulse; volume is adjustable with
control knob; pitch varies to reflect changes in oxygen saturation.
4.5RESPONSE MODES
4.6 ECG
4.7 SWITCHES
Two response modes, selected by the Response Time button: Mode 1 (default),
slow, 50 seconds (at 150 bpm); Mode 2, fast, 11 seconds (at 150 bpm). See
Response Time in the Guide to Operation section of the N-400 operator’s
manual.
Via rear-panel ECG input jack
•Input: High-level ECG output signal from EFM through an ECG
interface cable. For optimum performance, a signal with positive
deflection is recommended.
•Input Range: 0.05 V minimum input signal; should not exceed ±15 V.
Minimum of 10 ms wide at 50% of peak amplitude.
Ten for digital output format and analog output voltage range.
Switch SectionFunction
1analog output voltage range
2,5,9,10not used
3,4baud rate select
6,7,8RS-232 format
4-2
4.8DATA I/O
Digital
Analog
FSpO2 Accuracy:±20 mV at zero (0), ±0.5% of full scale,
4.9 CONNECTORS
Section 4: Specifications
Type:RS-232 format
Connector:9-pin D-type, female
Baud Rate:Switch-selectable, 1200, 2400, 9600, and 19,200
Formats:Conversation, beat-to-beat
3 each; 3/32-inch subminiature phone jacks
Outputs:FSpO2 and Plethysmographic Waveform
Voltage:0-1 or 0-10 V (switch-selectable, DIP switch 1)
Maximum voltage output: 10 V
referred to front panel display
Input:High-level ECG output signal from an EFM
Front Panel: N-400 Fetal Patient Module Connector
4.10ELECTRICAL
Voltage Requirement: 100 – 120 V~ ±10% at 50/60 Hz
Current Requirement: 300 mA, maximum
Power Consumption:Maximum rating: 30 VA
Rear Panel:FSpO2 analog output jack (3/32”)
Plethysmographic Waveform analog output jack (3/32”)
Fetal High-level ECG input jack (3/32”)
Serial Communications connector (9-pin, D-type connector)
Mains (AC) power input
200 – 240 V~ ±10% at 50 Hz
Fuses:115 V~: 2 x T 500 mA, 250 V
230 V~: 2 x T 250 mA, 250 V
Classification:Protective Class: IEC Class I
Degree of Protection: Type BF
Enclosure Degree of Protection: Ordinary (IPXO)
Mode of Operation: Continuous
4-3
Section 4: Specifications
4.11PHYSICAL
Monitor
Patient Module
panel; Fetal Sensor connector, mates with 9-pin connector
4.12ENVIRONMENTAL
Transport (in shipping container)
Dimensions:12.6” wide x 12” deep x 3” high
(32 cm x 30 cm x 8 cm)
Weight:9 lb
(4.1 kg)
Cable length:13 ft (4 m) cable
Connectors:Lemo B-series, mates with 12-pin connector on N-400 front
on Fetal Oxygen Sensor
Temperature: –40°C to +70°C (–40°F to +158°F)
Storage (not in shipping container)
Operating
Emissions Compliance
Altitude/Barometric Pressure:
–390 m to +6,096 m (–1280 ft to +20,000 ft)
+1060 hPa to +500 hPa (+31.1 in. Hg to +14 in. Hg)
Relative Humidity: 15% to 95% (noncondensing)
Temperature: –40°C to +60°C (–40°F to +140°F)
Altitude/Barometric Pressure:
–390 m to +6,096 m (–1280 ft to +20,000 ft)
+1060 hPa to +500 hPa (+31.1 in. Hg to +14 in. Hg)
Relative Humidity: 15% to 95% (noncondensing)
Temperature: +5°C to +40°C (+41°F to +104°F)
Altitude/Barometric Pressure:
–390 m to +6,096 m (–1280 ft to +20,000 ft)
+1060 hPa to +500 hPa (+31.1 in. Hg to +14 in. Hg)
Relative Humidity: 15% to 95% (noncondensing)
4-4
EN55011 Emissions Classification
CISPR II, Group I, Class B
SECTION 5: TECHNICAL SUPPORT
5.1 Theory of Operation
5.2 Block Diagram Analysis
5.3 Circuit Descriptions
5.4 Schematic, Part Locator, and Block Diagrams
5.1THEORY OF OPERATION
Operation of the N-400 Fetal Oxygen Saturation system is based on the
principles of pulse oximetry, which in turn is based on spectrophotometry and
plethysmography. The system includes an electro-optical sensor and a
microprocessor-based monitor.
Oxyhemoglobin and deoxyhemoglobin have different light absorption
characteristics in the far red and infrared wavelength spectrums. Less red
light is absorbed by oxyhemoglobin than by deoxyhemoglobin. Relatively
more infrared light is absorbed by oxyhemoglobin than by deoxyhemoglobin.
Arterial blood in a well-oxygenated fetus will typically contain a higher
concentration of oxyhemoglobin than deoxyhemoglobin.
The N-400 uses these differences in the absorption of far red and infrared
light by oxy- and deoxyhemoglobin to determine fetal oxygen saturation by
measuring the change in light levels caused by pulsating arterial blood in the
tissue.
The fetal oxygen sensor has two low-voltage light-emitting diodes (LEDs).
One of these LEDs emits red light (nominal 735 nm wavelength) and the
other emits infrared light (nominal 890 nm wavelength). When the sensor
has been properly positioned on the fetal temple or cheek, light from each of
these LEDs is alternately sent through the fetal skin into the underlying
tissues at the sensor site. The amount of light absorbed by the tissue or blood
underlying the fetal sensor is determined from the amount of light that
scatters back to the tissue surface and is picked up by the photo detector
(photo diode) on the sensor.
Light absorption is first measured by the N-400 at each wavelength when no
pulsatile blood is present. This reflects the background light absorption of
bone, tissue, and venous blood, which are generally considered non-pulsating.
This measurement is analogous to the reference measurement of a
spectrophotometer.
With each fetal heart beat, a pulse of arterial blood flows to the oxygen sensor
site. Red and infrared light absorption are then measured by the N-400 at
each wavelength when this pulsatile, arterial blood is in the tissue. The
N-400 microprocessor compares the background light absorption
measurements to the absorption measured at both light wavelengths during
each arterial pulse. The ratio of the corrected absorption at each wavelength
is used to determine fetal oxygen saturation (FSpO2).
5-1
Section 5: Technical Support
5.1.1 Auto Calibration
The N-400 oximetry subsystem is automatically calibrated each time the
monitor is turned on, at periodic intervals thereafter, and whenever a new
sensor is connected. The intensities of the sensor LEDs are adjusted
automatically to compensate for differences in tissue light absorption
characteristics, or other sources of light attenuation.
Each fetal oxygen sensor is calibrated when manufactured: the effective
mean wavelength of the LEDs is determined and encoded into a calibration
resistor in the sensor. The N-400 software reads this calibration resistor
when the sensor is connected to determine the appropriate calibration
coefficients for the measurements obtained by that specific sensor.
5.1.2 Functional vs Fractional Saturation
Because the N-400 measures functional SaO2, it may produce measurements
that differ from those of instruments that measure fractional SaO2.
Functional SaO2 is oxygenated hemoglobin expressed as a percentage of the
hemoglobin that is capable of transporting oxygen. Because the N-400 uses
two wavelengths, it measures oxygenated and deoxygenated hemoglobin,
yielding functional SaO2. It does not detect dysfunctional hemoglobins, such
as carboxyhemoglobin or methemoglobin.
In contrast, some laboratory instruments such as the Instrumentation
Laboratory 282 or 482 CO-Oximeter report fractional SaO2 - oxygenated
hemoglobin expressed as a percentage of all measured hemoglobin, whether
or not that hemoglobin is available for oxygen transport. Measured
dysfunctional hemoglobins are included.
Consequently, to compare N-400 measurements directly with those of another
instrument, that other instrument must measure functional SaO2. If the
other instrument measures fractional SaO2, those measurements can be
converted to functional SaO2 using the following equation.
functional saturation =
100 - (% carboxyhemoglobin + % methemoglobin)
fractional saturation
x100
5-2
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