A Theoretical Analysis of Some Errors in Oximetry

Oximeters, photoelectric instruments for the rapid estimation of blood oxygen saturation, are based on the principles of bichromatic photometry. The need for relative simplicity in design and operation of these instruments, particularly of ear oximeters, requires that assumptions be made which are only partially met in practice. The present paper is concerned with an analysis of errors arising from these assumptions. Suggestions to improve the accuracy of the measurement are presented.