Studies on the Practical Application of the Oximeter in Public Health

Report 1. Principle of the Oximeter

Abstract

Recently as doubtful points were indicated in certain circles concerning Drabkin's absorption curve which Comroe advocated as a basis of the theoretical explanation on the oximeter, studies were undertaken to clear up these points. Using human blood, solutions of oxyhaemoglobin (0₂-Hb) and reduced haemoglobin (Hb) were made and the absorption of lights in wave-lengths between 600mμ and 1000mμ was measured by means of electric spectro-photometer. That both absorption curves crossed over clearly at 800mμ was confirmed. This fact, it is believed, is a satisfactory evidence of Comroe's explanation which had utilized “Crossov er-Points” of oxyhaemoglobin and reduced haemoglobin at 800mμ as the basis of explanation of the oximeter.