Fibre optic sensor for non-invasive monitoring of blood pressure during MRI scanning

Abstract

This report focuses on designing and implementing a non-invasive blood pressure (NIBP) measuring device capable of being used during magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Based on measuring pulse wave velocity in arterial blood, the device uses the obtained result to estimate diastolic blood pressure. Pulse transit times are measured by two fibre optical accelerometers placed over the chest and carotid artery. The fabricated accelerometer contains two static fibres and a cantilever beam, whose free end is angled at 90 degrees to act as a reflecting surface. Optical fibres are used for both illuminating the surface and receiving the reflected light. When acceleration is applied to the sensor, it causes a deflection in the beam, thereby changing the amount of reflected light. The sensor's output voltage is proportional to the intensity of the reflected light. Tests conducted on the electronics and sensors inside an MRI room during scanning proved that the device is MR- compatible. No artifacts or distortions were detected.