Forehead Sensor Facilitates Low Perfusion Pulse Oximetry

An innovative transflectance sensor provides oxygen saturation measurements that are less susceptible to peripheral perfusion changes.

The TFA-1 single-patient-use adhesive forehead sensor allows clinicians to detection desaturation and resaturation faster than via digit sensors when using Masimo SET measure-through motion and low perfusion pulse oximetry, by addressing low perfusion and motion artifact challenges. By harnessing adaptive filters to reduce measurement inaccuracy and the alternative forehead-monitoring site (rather than a finger), the TFA-1 provides easier access during surgery, resuscitation, and in patients with finger deformities.


The TFA-1 is suitable for both pediatric and adult patients, and is available in both Masimo LNCS and M-LNCS connector versions, each provided with a flat cable for improved patient comfort. Using a forehead sensor also avoids cross-contamination risks that accompany reusable sensors, reduces the complexity associated with reusable sensors, such as cleaning, storage, and transport. The TFA-1 single-patient-use adhesive forehead sensor is a product of Masimo, and has been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

“The TFA-1 transflectance forehead adhesive sensor offers clinicians yet another way to leverage the breakthrough measurement capability in Masimo SET pulse oximetry,” said Joe Kiani, founder and CEO of Masimo. “By continuing to take Masimo's breakthrough technologies to new sites and applications, we are helping improve patient outcomes and safety while reducing cost of care.”

Masimo SET is a noninvasive sensor technology that uses more than seven wavelengths of light to acquire blood constituent data. Advanced signal processing algorithms and unique adaptive filters work together to isolate, identify, and quantify various hemoglobin species based on theur light absorption characteristics, delivering the results in numerical values. Masimo SET includes measurement of oxygen saturation (SpO2), pulse rate (PR), perfusion index (PI), and pleth variability index (PVI), a measure of the dynamic changes in perfusion index that occur during the respiratory cycle.