Masimo launches first non-adhesive pulse oximetry sensor for extremely low birth weight babies

12 November 2008

Masimo (NASDAQ:MASI), the inventor of pulse CO-oximetry and measure-through motion and low perfusion pulse oximetry, has introduced a new SofTouch disposable pulse oximetry sensor developed specifically for the fragile skin and size of extremely low birth weight (ELBW) infants (<500 grams-1,000 grams) in conjunction with the Neonatology 2008 conference in Miami, Florida.

The new LNCS SofTouch NeoPt-500 sensor is exclusively designed to fit ELBW babies and features special soft foam and non-adhesive attachments to prevent injury to even the most sensitive skin of premature infants.

Barbara Haley, CRTT, NICU Clinical Coordinator, Respiratory Care Services at California Pacific Medical Center in San Francisco, CA, stated; "We love the LNCS SofTouch NeoPt-500 for the improvement in care it facilitates. It is smaller than other neonatal sensors — making it a near-perfect fit even for our smallest preemies — and it is much softer on the skin to maintain skin integrity. We've also found that the NeoPt-500 makes nurses more efficient because the wrap is so much easier to apply and secure."

LNCS SofTouch NeoPt-500 is the first non-adhesive pulse oximetry sensor made specifically for the needs of newborns weighing down to 500 grams or less. At just 20 mm in size, the NeoPt-500 has dimensions that are smaller than typical neonatal sensors. This means that the distance between the emitter and detector on the NeoPt-500 is much smaller — enabling the sensor to fit better and more securely on the tiniest hand or foot.

Mitchell Goldstein MD, Associate Professor, Pediatrics at Loma Linda University Children's Hospital in Loma Linda, CA, stated, "The new LNCS SofTouch NeoPt-500 sensor solves the problems associated with typical pulse oximetry sensors in ELBW infants. ELBW neonates are much more susceptible to skin burn injury and full thickness ulcer formations caused by improper sensor design and placement. Skin injury compromises the body's most basic protection mechanism and, in this most vulnerable population, the problems and risks associated with sensors not designed or intended for ELBW newborns have much greater consequences. Masimo is a unique company that not only understands this, but designs and develops clinically-relevant solutions to overcome these challenges."

Masimo SofTouch sensors are designed for single-patient use whenever skin sensitivity is a concern. SofTouch sensors incorporate a hook and loop wrap — allowing the sensor to be quickly and securely applied on wet and slippery sites, and easily repositioned if necessary. Newborn skin is further protected by soft foam material that surrounds the sensor attachment for maximum comfort, and the NeoPt-500 contains no adhesive materials exposed to skin contact areas. This prevents epidermal stripping and skin trauma typically caused by applying and repositioning an adhesive sensor.

Joe E Kiani, Founder and CEO of Masimo, stated; "The new LNCS SofTouch NeoPt-500 sensor underscores our core philosophy of 'doing what is best for patient care.' We believe that every patient deserves appropriate monitoring solutions. That's why Masimo provides over 100 different sensors, each uniquely designed to deliver the performance and measurement clinicians want — including 15 different sensor options to address the challenging needs and specific requirements of neonatal patients."

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