An infrared device for artery temperature detection in surgical application

The goal of this research was to design and evaluate an infrared (IR) prototype device for the detection of the blood temperature during a surgical operation for coronary bypass implantation. The idea was to study a low cost portable device to be placed near the region of interest. We chose a pyroelectric sensor for its high qualitycost ratio. Because this kind of sensor detects only a variable infrared source, we used an electromechanical chopper for modulating the radiation. The output signal was analysed using a dedicated electronics; then an acquisition board is employed for processing the signal using a PC. Prototype assessment was made with laboratory equipment and in vivo measurements during surgical operation of a little pig.