NIRS functions

What is near infrared spectroscopy?

The Near-Infrared Spectroscopy or NIRS is based mainly on two characteristics of the human tissue: the relative transparency of the tissue to the light in the range NIR and, second, the absorbing light characteristics of the haemoglobin. By using several different wavelengths, the changes in the concentration of haemoglobin can be shown continuously.

Using the NIRS, it is possible to monitor the behaviour of total haemoglobin, oxyhaemoglobin and daeoxihaemoglobin in such a way:

Non-invasive

Affordable

Continuous

In the laboratory or outside

No need for special infrastructures

Why the NIRS?

All the cells of the body have a constant and variable need of oxygen. However, the body’s oxygen warehouses are minimal. It is essential a consistent and adequate supply of oxygen to the tissues through circulation in veins and arteries. Any interference with the oxygenation of the tissues will take very quickly to irreversible damage.

Optical oximetry and specifically infrared spectroscopy (NIRS), is a tool to evaluate the state of oxygenation and haemodynamics of various organs, for example the muscle and the brain.