Draeger
Transcutaneous bilirubinometers are noninvasive devices used to screen and monitor jaundice in newborns. The device can predict total serum bilirubin in newborns by measuring the yellowness of the skin. The device is used by pressing the optic head of the meter against the newborns skin with gentle pressure, usually on the forehead and upper end of the sternum. They work by directing light into the skin of the newborn and measuring the intensity of specific wavelengths that is reflected from the newborns subcutaneous tissues. The electrical signals that are created are analyzed by a microprocessor to generate a serum bilirubin value. Mutli-wavelength spectral reflectance meters display the results in easy-to-read units and are accurate for newborns of all races and ages. Transcutaneous bilirubinometers are best used as screening tools for jaundice, but not as a substitutes for TSB estimations and when neonatalogists are available. There are several manufacturers of transcutaneous bilirubinometers, including Drager Medical, Lacteromedic, Rustaki Surgicals, Phoenix, and Lacteromedik. A link to Drager Medical's Airshield's Minolta transcutaneous bilirubinometers is provided.