New finger sensor aims to reduce blood transfusions in surgery

NCT ID NCT02986789

First seen Jun 27, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026

Summary

This study tested a special finger sensor that measures hemoglobin and fluid levels without needles during surgery. The goal was to see if this real-time information helps doctors decide when to give blood transfusions, potentially reducing the amount of donor blood needed. The study included 43 adults undergoing major surgeries with expected blood loss, but it was terminated early, so the findings are limited.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance

Pulse oximeter finger sensor (noninvasive hemoglobin and pleth variability index monitoring)

What this could lead to

If successful, this could help doctors make better decisions about blood transfusions during surgery, potentially reducing the need for donor blood.

What could go wrong

The study was terminated early with only 43 participants, so results are limited. The device may not improve outcomes for all surgical patients.

Disclaimer Read more

This is a summary of the original study . Summaries may miss details or leave out important information. Before applying or accepting participation, make sure you have read and understood the full study. Curemydisease.com takes no responsibility whatsoever for anything missed, misunderstood, or acted upon as a result of our summary — we know it does not capture everything.

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As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.