Abstract: In an apparatus and method for measuring in vitro the concentration of meconium in amniotic fluid, a plurality of sensors are placed in predetermined locations throughout an amniotic sac. Each sensor includes a blue light-emitting diode having a peak transmission wavelength centered at about 430 nm, a transducer comprising a blue-enhanced photodiode for converting the light received from the light-emitting diode to a voltage signal, and an operational amplifier for amplifying the voltage signal. The light source and transducer are spaced a predetermined distance relative to each other, and define an amniotic fluid passageway therebetween for receiving the amniotic fluid. A micro-controller calculates, in accordance with an empirically-determined linear equation, the meconium concentration based on the natural log of each transducer signal.

Abstract: A vibrotactile stimulator system for detecting and interrupting apnea in premature neonates comprises a multi-sensing monitor for detecting the respiration and other physiological characteristics of the neonate, a vibrotactile sensory stimulator in contact with an extremity of the neonate and a computer interface functionally positioned between the monitor and the vibrotactile stimulator. The interface provides a comparison of the monitored data to preprogrammed individualized standards to determine variations from the standard and provides an intervention output signal to the vibrator. The stimulator includes a cutaneous vibrator engaging a peripheral sensory area of the neonate and being operable at a frequency up to about 400 Hz, but optimally about 260 Hz, to stimulate the neonate and interrupt an apneic episode. The system can include time-delayed, backup, audible and/or visual alarms as well as a graphic display with a pre-apneic printout and cribside or remote manual actuation capability.