Vein scanners utilize near-infrared light to map veins for easier and more accurate punctures.
Here's a breakdown of the vein scanning process:
- Near-Infrared (NIR) Light Emission: The device emits near-infrared light onto the body.
- Light Reflection and Interpretation: The surrounding tissue reflects the NIR light, which the scanner interprets.
- Image Projection: Based on the reflected light, the scanner projects an image onto the body in real-time, clearly highlighting the veins. According to the provided reference, "the device emits near-infrared light (NIR) onto the body and interprets the light reflected back by surrounding tissue. It then projects an image onto the body in real-time to highlight the veins."
- Simplified Puncture: This real-time vein map simplifies the process of obtaining a good, clean puncture, as the veins are clearly displayed.
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| 1. NIR Light Emission | The vein scanner emits near-infrared light onto the targeted area of the body. |
| 2. Light Reflection | The light reflects off the tissue surrounding the veins. |
| 3. Image Processing | The scanner interprets the reflected light, distinguishing veins from surrounding tissue. |
| 4. Real-Time Projection | The device projects a real-time image of the vein map onto the patient's skin, showing the location of veins. |
| 5. Puncture Assistance | The displayed vein map guides medical professionals to perform punctures accurately and efficiently. |
This technology is particularly useful in situations where locating veins is difficult, such as in patients with:
- Dehydration
- Obesity
- Dark skin tones
- A history of intravenous drug use
By using vein scanners, medical professionals can reduce the number of attempts needed for successful venous access, improving patient comfort and reducing the risk of complications.
