Hemodynamics of the sternocleidomastoid measured with frequency domain diffuse optical spectroscopy towards non-invasive monitoring during mechanical ventilation

Mechanical ventilation is used to assist spontaneous breathing in critically ill patients such as those suffering from severe cases of COVID-19. There is a need for new technologies to monitor inspiratory muscle pathophysiology during mechanical ventilation to preserve muscle function and improve weaning success. Here we explore the feasibility of using our custom frequency domain diffuse optical spectroscopy platform to extract the oxygenation of the sternocleidomastoid (SCM), an accessory muscle of inspiration. We will present Monte Carlo simulation results of the neck region where the SCM is located as well as initial results from a normal volunteer study.