Traditionally, newborns are screened for high bilirubin levels to assess the risk of neonatal hyperbilirubinemia (neonatal jaundice) by taking blood samples through heel sticks. A new medical device, Gerium Medical’s BiliCare Noninvasive Bilirubin Meter, can accurately calculate bilirubin levels in a newborn without puncturing the skin, reducing the risk for infection.

The Noninvasive Bilirubin Meter makes use of miniature LVDT linear position sensors for accurate measurement. Based on spectroscopy, the patented BiliCare technology measures the level of transcutaneous bilirubin in newborns (regardless of skin color) born at the gestational age of 24 weeks and above, by transmitting light at different wavelengths through the outer ear. The amount of light absorbed by the bilirubin is calculated by comparing the intensity of the light before it enters the tissue with its intensity after it leaves. The transcutaneous bilirubin of the newborn is then calculated according to a custom algorithm.

The CD Series Miniature AC LVDT linear position sensors measure the thickness of the neonates tissue through which the transmitted light passes. At 3⁄8 in. in diameter, these lightweight ac-operated LVDTs suit medical devices with tight space restrictions and high accuracy requirements. The sensor can achieve an accuracy of ±30 µm in tissue thickness measurement.

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