Apparatus for measuring optical parameters in scattering media

Abstract

A spectrophotometric apparatus for determining optical parameters in a scattering medium based on the measurement of attenuation of light propagating through said medium by diffusion. To eliminate the detrimental effect of light being guided in an intermediate optical layer between a surface of the medium and a contact surface of the apparatus, either a multitude of optical barriers may be formed in the contact surface or the angular range over which light is emitted or received by the apparatus may be limited by appropriate means. With both of these alternative approaches, light propagation in the intermediate layer can be suppressed, leading to increased measurement accuracy. This is particularly beneficial for building an oximeter with improved precision. Further aspects include features for improving the applicability of the apparatus on curved surfaces such as the strongly curved skulls of neonates.