Optical Studies of the Capillary Refill Kinetics in Fingertips

A new methodology for temporal analysis of the capillary refill processes by means of photoplethysmography (PPG) contact probe operating in the blue region of spectrum has been developed. A corresponding prototype device for finger measurements has been created and clinically tested. Results demonstrated that both AC and DC components of the blue PPG bio-signals are sensitive to the capillary occlusion and refill. Real-time measurements of the skin capillary refill kinetics by this technology can be used for noninvasive diagnostics of the peripheral perfusion disorders.