Polymer waveguide-based wearable photonic patch for continuous pulse oximetry in high-altitude regions near Chimgan

High-altitude exposure near Chimgan in Uzbekistan is associated with intermittent hypoxia in trekkers, outdoor workers and residents, yet conventional finger clip pulse oximeters are poorly suited to continuous monitoring during movement and cold weather. This study presents the design and field evaluation of a polymer waveguide-based wearable photonic patch for continuous pulse oximetry on the forearm in high-altitude environments. The device integrates soft polymer optical waveguides, multiwavelength light-emitting diodes and thin-film photodetectors in a flexible adhesive patch optimised for low contact pressure and stable coupling to skin. Laboratory characterisation assessed optical transmission, bending resilience and signal-to-noise ratio during simulated motion. Field trials compared the patch with a clinical reference oximeter during ascent and overnight stays at high altitude, evaluating agreement in arterial oxygen saturation estimates, robustness to motion artefacts and user comfort. Results indicate that polymer waveguide photonic patches enable reliable, long-duration monitoring in challenging climatic and physiological conditions.

Ҳали таржима қилинмаган