fotoplethysmografia

Fotoplethysmography, often abbreviated as PPG, is a simple and low-cost optical technique used to detect blood volume changes in the microvascular bed of tissue. It is based on the principle that blood absorbs light more than surrounding tissue, causing variations in the transmission and reflection of light as the volume of blood changes with each heartbeat. This technique is commonly used in wearable devices for heart rate monitoring and can also be applied in medical settings for blood oxygen saturation measurements.

The basic setup for PPG involves a light source and a detector. The light source emits light into the skin, and the detector measures the amount of light that is transmitted or reflected back. The changes in light intensity are then analyzed to determine the heart rate and other physiological parameters. PPG signals can be acquired from various parts of the body, including the finger, ear, and wrist, making it a versatile method for continuous monitoring.

PPG has several advantages, including its non-invasive nature, low cost, and ease of use. It does not require direct contact with the skin and can be integrated into wearable devices, making it suitable for long-term monitoring. However, PPG signals can be affected by motion artifacts and ambient light, which can introduce noise and reduce the accuracy of the measurements. To mitigate these issues, advanced signal processing techniques and algorithms are often employed to enhance the reliability of PPG-based monitoring systems.

In summary, fotoplethysmography is a valuable tool for non-invasive monitoring of cardiovascular parameters. Its simplicity, low cost, and versatility make it widely used in both consumer electronics and medical applications. Ongoing research aims to improve the accuracy and robustness of PPG systems, further expanding their potential in healthcare and wellness monitoring.