Abstract:
A pulse oximeter sensor that is designed to surround an appendage of the patient, such as a finger, toe or foot is disclosed. The sensor has a reusable member (14) which preferably includes a photodetector (24). A disposable, flexible member (12) preferably contains the photoemitter (22) and can be wrapped around the patient's appendage to secure it to the appendage and the reusable member. When secured, the photoemitter and photodetector end up on opposite sides of the appendage. The disposable member (12) connects to the reusable member (14) to establish electrical contact. The reusable member (14) is connected to a cable (26) which can be plugged into a sensor monitoring system.