Evaluating how skin pigmentation affects pulse oximetry performance

Investigation of Skin Pigmentation Effect on Performance of Masimo Pulse Oximetry (INSPIRE)

Not applicable Interventional Masimo Corporation · NCT06432881

This study is testing if a special oxygen sensor works equally well for people with different skin colors in the ICU who have low oxygen levels.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment152 (estimated)
Ages18 Years to 89 Years
SexAll
SponsorMasimo Corporation Industry-sponsored
Locations1 site (Charleston, South Carolina)
Trial IDNCT06432881 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study investigates the effectiveness of Masimo RD SET® SpO2 sensors in measuring oxygen levels in patients with varying skin pigmentation in an intensive care setting. It aims to determine if skin color influences the accuracy of pulse oximetry readings in individuals experiencing hypoxemia. Participants must be adults in an ICU with an arterial catheter and low oxygen levels. The study will compare sensor performance across different skin tones to ensure reliable monitoring for all patients.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are adults aged 18 and older receiving care in an intensive care unit with hypoxemia.

Not a fit: Patients who cannot have pulse oximetry performed reliably due to physical conditions affecting their fingers or skin will not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to improved accuracy of pulse oximetry readings for patients with different skin pigmentation, enhancing patient care in critical situations.

How similar studies have performed: While there is limited data on this specific approach, studies addressing the impact of skin pigmentation on medical device performance have shown varying results, indicating a need for further investigation.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Subject is 18 years of age or older.
* Subject is receiving care in an intensive care unit.
* Subject with an arterial catheter in place.
* Subject is experiencing hypoxemia as defined by 1) need for supplement oxygen or 2) peripheral oxygenation ≤ 94% on room air

Exclusion Criteria:

* Subjects in whom pulse oximetry cannot be reliably performed on both the third and fourth digit on the hand ipsilateral to the arterial line, precluding application of the sensor (e.g., amputation and deformity).
* Subjects with a skin condition affecting the digits, where the sensor is applied, which would preclude sensor placement as standard of care (e.g., psoriasis, eczema, angioma, scar tissue, burn, fungal infection, substantial skin breakdown, etc.).
* Subjects with distinct geographic variances in skin pigmentation (e.g., vitiligo) on the digit where the sensor is applied, which would preclude sensor placement as standard of care.
* Subjects with nail polish or acrylic nails on the digits where sensor needs to be applied.
* Subjects with known allergic reactions to adhesive tapes.
* Subjects with arterial catheter placed in a lower extremity.
* Subjects not suitable for the investigation at the discretion of the investigator or the clinical team.

Where this trial is running

Charleston, South Carolina

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions Hypoxemia
Last reviewed 2026-06-09 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.