Associated With Parturition Patents (Class 600/588)
  • Patent number: 11892326
    Abstract: The present invention relates to an improved tocodynamometer transducer that exhibits increased mechanical stability, dynamic range, accuracy, and reliability. Improvement components include top and bottom enclosures, plunger, ferrite core, LVDT transformer, transformer housing, flat spring, and other components. The flat spring includes four spring ribs that are symmetrical, curvilinear in shape, identical in path length, separated by an air gap, and equally spaced between the outer ring, inner ring, and the spring ribs that are adjacent. The spring constant is identical along two or more axes improving the accuracy of the improved tocodynamometer transducer. The ferrite core travel length is increased and mechanically constrained to remain between the LVDT transforming winding increasing the dynamic range and the linearity of the voltage output of the improved tocodynamometer transducer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 10, 2022
    Date of Patent: February 6, 2024
    Assignee: Aronix LLC
    Inventors: Arun Narayan Patil, Anand Raghunath Bhave, Sunanda Narayan Patil, Pratibha Narayan Patil
  • Patent number: 11877850
    Abstract: A system for augmenting uterine forces includes a medical apparatus having a balloon body that transitions between a compacted state and an expanded state, a catheter that receives the medical apparatus and obtains electrical signals indicative of intrinsic uterine contractions, and a controller coupled to the catheter to receive the electrical signals, and to a source of an agent. The controller processes the electrical signals to detect an onset of an intrinsic uterine contraction, an increase in uterine contraction forces, or a decrease in uterine contraction forces. In response to a detection of an onset of an intrinsic uterine contraction or an increase in uterine contraction forces, the controller causes an agent to be delivered from the agent source to the balloon body to expand the balloon body. In response to a detection of a decrease in uterine contraction forces, the controller causes agent to discharge from the balloon body to collapse the balloon body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 19, 2021
    Date of Patent: January 23, 2024
    Assignee: 3VO Medical, Inc.
    Inventors: Ed Chinchoy, James Kelley, Jay Snell
  • Patent number: 11841283
    Abstract: A method for manufacturing a sensor. The sensor includes a sensing element and a housing, the housing including an interior space, which is accessible through a housing opening, and the sensing element being situated in the interior space and being designed to detect a property and/or a composition of an ambient medium of the sensor. The method includes filling the interior space with a protective medium through the housing opening, the protective medium being designed to transfer the property and/or the composition of the ambient medium to the sensing element; fixing a preferably flexible diaphragm at or in the housing opening preferably for sealing the housing opening, the diaphragm including at least one diaphragm opening; and sealing the at least one diaphragm opening. A sensor, which is manufactured according to this method, is also described.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 12, 2021
    Date of Patent: December 12, 2023
    Assignee: ROBERT BOSCH GMBH
    Inventors: Lars Sodan, Dorothee Nonnenmacher, Elmar Kroner, Friedhelm Guenter, Joachim Friedl, Joachin Kreutzer, Klaus-Volker Schuett, Michael Raedler, Patrick Stihler, Raschid Baraki, Steven Maul, Yang Zou
  • Patent number: 11821803
    Abstract: A sensor includes a sensing element for detecting a property and/or a composition of a surrounding medium of the sensor, a transmission medium for transmitting a property and/or a composition of the surroundings medium onto the sensing element, the transmission medium being situated in such a way that the transmission medium is applied to the sensing element, and a cover, which distances the transmission medium from the surrounding medium, the cover being manufactured from a self-healing material, in particular, the cover being designed as a flexible membrane which is made up of a self-healing material.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 4, 2021
    Date of Patent: November 21, 2023
    Assignee: ROBERT BOSCH GMBH
    Inventors: Dorothee Nonnenmacher, Gustav Klett, Joachim Kreutzer, Joachim Friedl, Lars Sodan
  • Patent number: 11798677
    Abstract: A system and method for providing a guided workflow through a series of ultrasound image acquisitions with reference images updated based on a determined anatomical position is provided. The method includes acquiring and displaying, by an ultrasound system, at least one ultrasound image of an anatomy. The method includes determining, by at least one processor, a position of the anatomy depicted in the at least one ultrasound image. The method includes automatically selecting and displaying, by the at least one processor, reference images corresponding to pre-defined views of an ultrasound examination. An orientation of anatomy depicted in the selected and displayed reference images is based on the determined position of the anatomy. The method includes acquiring and displaying, by the ultrasound system, additional ultrasound images of the anatomy corresponding to the selected and displayed reference images. The additional ultrasound images include pre-defined views of the ultrasound examination.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 31, 2019
    Date of Patent: October 24, 2023
    Assignee: GE PRECISION HEALTHCARE LLC
    Inventors: Lucienne van der Veen, Christian Fritz Perrey
  • Patent number: 11712248
    Abstract: A device for retarding birth including an upper ring for surrounding a cervix, an anchoring component for anchoring the device, and an elastic component for attaching the upper ring to the anchoring component, wherein the elastic component pushes the upper ring and the anchoring component apart. A device for retarding birth including a sleeve for surrounding a cervix along a greater portion of a length of the cervix, a support strip on the sleeve directed along an axis of the sleeve, and a ring at least partially around the sleeve, in which when a top of the sleeve is pushed to expand radially, the support strip pivots on the ring, such that an end of the support strip near the top of the sleeve moves radially outward, and an end of the support strip near the bottom of the sleeve moves radially inward. Related apparatus and methods are also described.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 9, 2019
    Date of Patent: August 1, 2023
    Assignees: Tel HaShomer Medical Research Infrastructure and Services Ltd., The Trendlines Group Ltd.
    Inventors: Abraham Tsur, Sharon Farber, Roy Mashiach, Yosef Hazan, David Shashar, Avshalom Shenhav
  • Patent number: 11660228
    Abstract: An obstructive sleep apnea detection device including an optical engagement surface adapted to engage a user's skin; a light source adapted to emit light from the optical engagement surface; a photodetector adapted to detect light at the optical engagement surface and to generate a detected light signal; a position sensor adapted to determine patient sleeping position; a controller adapted to determine and record in memory blood oxygen saturation values computed from the detected light signal and user position information from the position sensor; and a housing supporting the optical engagement surface, the photodetector, the light source, the position sensor, and the controller.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 28, 2020
    Date of Patent: May 30, 2023
    Assignee: Oura Health Oy
    Inventors: Thomas G. Goff, Kirby Chiang, Nathaniel L. Bowditch
  • Patent number: 11399817
    Abstract: A device for treating tissue may include a tissue expander configured to be inserted into a body lumen and stretch tissue surrounding the body lumen, and a tool configured to be coupled to the tissue expander and move along a path defined by the tissue expander.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 30, 2019
    Date of Patent: August 2, 2022
    Assignee: BOSTON SCIENTIFIC SCIMED, INC.
    Inventors: Laura Finn Miller, Jonathan Patrick Wittrock, Ryan S. Bennett, Timothy Lawrence Rubesch, Corey Tillman, Kevin Martin
  • Patent number: 10828476
    Abstract: Systems for the treatment and prevention of pelvic dysfunction are provided. In one embodiment, a vaginal dilation device includes a handle portion and a shaft portion. The shaft portion is configured to expand from a collapsed configuration to an expanded configuration. The shaft portion can include a distal tip region, a spine region, and a distal arm region connecting the distal tip region to the spine region. The spine region can extend distally from the handle portion to the distal arm region, and can be generally tubular in shape. The distal arm region can be generally conical in shape and be configured to provide a gradual increase in diameter from the distal tip region to the spine region. Methods of use are also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 11, 2016
    Date of Patent: November 10, 2020
    Assignee: MATERNA MEDICAL, INC.
    Inventor: Mark Juravic
  • Patent number: 10820884
    Abstract: Disclosed are an ultrasound diagnosis apparatus and a method of operating the same, which more accurately measure a cervix length. The ultrasound diagnosis apparatus includes a pressure measurer that measures a pressure value applied from a probe to a cervix, an image generator that scans an object to acquire an ultrasound image, a controller that determines whether a cervix line is included in the ultrasound image, acquires the measured pressure value, corresponding to the ultrasound image, as a first pressure value when the cervix line is included in the ultrasound image, and acquires a second pressure value for measuring a length of the cervix line, and an output unit that outputs pressure information based on at least one selected from the first pressure value and the second pressure value.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 16, 2015
    Date of Patent: November 3, 2020
    Assignee: SAMSUNG MEDISON CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Kwang-hee Lee, Jun-sang Yoo, Gil-ju Jin, Eun-ho Yang
  • Patent number: 10632009
    Abstract: An obstructive sleep apnea detection device including an optical engagement surface adapted to engage a user's skin; a light source adapted to emit light from the optical engagement surface; a photodetector adapted to detect light at the optical engagement surface and to generate a detected light signal; a position sensor adapted to determine patient sleeping position; a controller adapted to determine and record in memory blood oxygen saturation values computed from the detected light signal and user position information from the position sensor; and a housing supporting the optical engagement surface, the photodetector, the light source, the position sensor, and the controller.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 19, 2018
    Date of Patent: April 28, 2020
    Assignee: HANCOCK MEDICAL, INC.
    Inventors: Thomas G. Goff, Kirby Chiang, Nathaniel L. Bowditch
  • Patent number: 10278581
    Abstract: A apparatus for automatically detecting a pregnancy status of a patient include a patch for adhering to human skin, a uterine contraction sensor, such as electromyography (EMG), coupled to the patch with at least two electrodes, and an inertial sensor for sensing fetal movement, or Fetal Heart Rate (FHR) sensor, such as Fetal EKG or a Doppler Ultrasound. An electronic circuit is coupled to the patch, the EMG sensor and the inertial sensor, and/or FHR sensor. The circuit provides an output based on a uterine contraction signal from the EMG sensor (or Doppler ultrasound) correlated in time to a fetal movement, and/or fetal heart rate. The apparatus may include a thermometer to aid in automatically providing an indication of a pregnancy complication or ovulation status of the patient, based on the output.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 31, 2014
    Date of Patent: May 7, 2019
    Assignee: Bloom Technologies NV
    Inventor: Richard S. Gaster
  • Patent number: 10278635
    Abstract: A system for monitoring a fetus in a pregnant woman, and/or the maternal health risk for pregnancies complicated by such as pre-eclampsia and hypertensive disorders is configured to be worn by the pregnant woman, preferably so as to allow monitoring during daily life, e.g. in the form of an adhesive patch. The unit has a sound sensor, e.g. a microphone or accelerometer, to be positioned on the skin of the abdominal area so as to detect a vascular sound from umbilical arteries of the fetus or from the uterine arteries of the pregnant woman. The sound sensor is functionally connected to a processing unit which executes a processing algorithm on the captured vascular sound and extracts a signal parameter accordingly. The processing unit then communicates the signal parameter, e.g. using an audio signal, a visual display or by means of a wired or a wireless data signal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 30, 2012
    Date of Patent: May 7, 2019
    Assignee: Viewcare Technologies 1 ApS
    Inventors: Birthe Irene Dinesen, Diana Kjær Thing Riknagel, Johannes Jan Struijk
  • Patent number: 10031036
    Abstract: A display apparatus includes a substrate including a first area, a second area, and a bending area, the bending area disposed between the first area and the second area and bending about a bending axis running along a first direction; a first piezoelectric device disposed over the bending area; and a pressure sensor. The first piezoelectric device is configured to contract or expand according to a pressure variation sensed by the pressure sensor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 27, 2017
    Date of Patent: July 24, 2018
    Assignee: SAMSUNG DISPLAY CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Minsung Kim, Thanhtien Nguyen, Kiju Im
  • Patent number: 9993192
    Abstract: The present disclosure provides methods for decreasing the duration of second stage labor by managing the labor process. In one aspect, a tactile feedback device is positioned adjacent the perianal tissues. A mother's labor is monitored for the progression of the baby along the birth canal and adjustments are performed in response to the progression of labor to promote a vaginal childbirth. A perianal support device includes a perianal support member having a pressure surface configured for engagement with tissue adjacent an anal orifice and a pressure detecting system associated with the perianal support member to detect pressure indicative of pressure on the perianal tissue of a patient.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 27, 2013
    Date of Patent: June 12, 2018
    Assignee: Stetrix, Inc.
    Inventors: David D. Blurton, Mark Buchanan
  • Patent number: 9947097
    Abstract: A processor identifies a first set of characteristic models of a structure in cross-plane images acquired at a first acquisition period. The processor identifies a second set of characteristic models of the structure in cross-plane images acquired at a second subsequent acquisition period. The processor determines an amount of rotation of the structure based at least in part on a difference in shape of the first set of characteristic models and the second set of characteristic models. The system and method may include determining a labor progress based at least in part on the determined amount of rotation of the structure. The structure may be a fetal head. The cross-plane images acquired at the first acquisition period may be acquired simultaneously by a single ultrasound device. The cross-plane images acquired at the second subsequent acquisition period may be acquired simultaneously by a single ultrasound device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 19, 2016
    Date of Patent: April 17, 2018
    Assignee: GENERAL ELECTRIC COMPANY
    Inventors: Christian Fritz Perrey, Klaus Pintoffl, Walter Duda, Jr., Lucienne van der Veen
  • Patent number: 9642561
    Abstract: A system for assessing an intervertebral disc space comprises an elongated catheter with proximal and distal ends and an expandable body attached to the distal end of the elongated catheter. The expandable body includes proximal and distal end portions. The system further comprises a securing mechanism encircling at least one of the proximal or distal end portions of the expandable body to tighten the expandable body against the elongated catheter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 4, 2015
    Date of Patent: May 9, 2017
    Inventor: Ankit K. Mehta
  • Patent number: 9603602
    Abstract: Disclosed are devices for reducing postpartum hemorrhage, including a belt having a fastener for securing the belt around a patient's body, a bladder being inflatable with air and adapted to be placed over the patient's abdomen for applying selective external pressure to the patient's uterus, a manual pump operably connected to the bladder to change air pressure of the bladder, and a pressure gauge for indicating the air pressure. Methods for using the devices are also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 22, 2016
    Date of Patent: March 28, 2017
    Assignee: Eastern Virginia Medical School
    Inventor: Alfred Z. Abuhamad
  • Patent number: 9597055
    Abstract: A fetal pulse monitor includes an ultrasound crystal. An ultrasound controller is electrically connected to the ultrasound crystal and operates the ultrasound crystal to produce ultrasound signals and receive reflected ultrasound signals. A wireless transmitter is electrically connected to the ultrasound controller. A biocompatible housing at least partially surrounds the ultrasound crystal, ultrasound controller, and the wireless transmitter. A system for monitoring fetal heart rate includes a fetal pulse monitor configured for insertion into a womb of a patient and for attachment to a fetus within the womb. The fetal pulse monitor includes an ultrasound crystal, an ultrasound controller electrically connected to the ultrasound crystal, and a wireless transmitter electrically connected to the ultrasound controller. A patient monitoring device is external to the womb and includes a wireless receiver and a processor that detects instantaneous fetal heart rate from the received ultrasound signal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 7, 2011
    Date of Patent: March 21, 2017
    Assignee: General Electric Company
    Inventors: Serguei Kabakov, Steven M. Falk, Karsten A. Russell-wood
  • Patent number: 9307919
    Abstract: An electrode interface system for providing a connection between at least one electrode and a maternal-fetal monitor, wherein the interface system converts electrical muscle activity captured by the electrode(s) into uterine activity data signals for use by the maternal-fetal monitor. The electrode interface system of the invention preferably includes a signal converter for processing the signals from the electrode(s) into signals similar to those produced by a tocodynometer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 8, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 12, 2016
    Inventors: Neil Russell Euliano, II, Dorothee Marossero
  • Patent number: 9248297
    Abstract: A system for treatment of gait disorders reflects, with electrical stimulation patterns fed to electrodes (1, 8) arranged at the patient, on the event of heel-strike and heel-off, the events being generated by a wireless heel switch (5). The pulse generator (4) also transfers the electrical energy needed to operate the heel switch (5) wirelessly. The event signal from the heel switch (5) is modulated in order to achieve a longer operating range.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 15, 2010
    Date of Patent: February 2, 2016
    Assignee: NEURODAN A/S
    Inventors: Michael Høyer, Clemens Florian Eder, Morten Hansen
  • Patent number: 9017270
    Abstract: Aspects of an apparatus and method for detecting movement of an object includes a base and a projection member extending between a first second ends, wherein the first end is attached to the base. Further included is a support member at the second end of the projection member, and a guide wire carried by the support member and having a substantially fixed length, wherein the guide wire is movable between a first position and a second position in conjunction with movement of an object. Also included is a sensor located a substantially fixed distance along a path of the guide wire from the support member, wherein the sensor detects movement of the guide wire between the first second positions. Additionally included is a feedback unit in communication with the sensor, wherein the feedback unit is configured to generate feedback corresponding to the detected movement.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 21, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 28, 2015
    Assignee: OB Technologies, LLC
    Inventors: M. Bardett Fausett, Jonathan W. Hander, Edwin W. Hander
  • Publication number: 20150094620
    Abstract: A device for measuring a length of a cervix includes an elongate measurement member extending along a longitudinal axis and including a measurement scale thereon, a hollow member coaxial with and disposed over the elongate measurement member, a flange offset from the longitudinal axis and attached to a distal end of the hollow member, a handle attached to a proximal end of the measurement member, and a locking mechanism on the handle. The hollow member is freely rotatable about the longitudinal axis relative to the measurement member to place the flange in a first position and in a second position perpendicular to the first position without moving the measurement scale. The locking mechanism is configured, when locked, to fix the hollow member relative to the measurement member and, when unlocked, to allow the hollow member to slide axially along the measurement member in the first and second positions.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 27, 2014
    Publication date: April 2, 2015
    Inventors: Jonathan P. BAUER, Dean R. KOCH, Paul E. MCCREADIE, Michael Glenn ROSS, Craig B. BERKY
  • Publication number: 20150087932
    Abstract: Apparatus and methods are described, included a method for detecting uterine contractions in a pregnant woman. The method includes sensing motion of the woman without contacting the woman, generating a signal corresponding to the sensed motion, and analyzing the signal to detect presence of labor contractions. Other applications are also described.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 2, 2014
    Publication date: March 26, 2015
    Inventors: Avner HALPERIN, Arkadi Averboukh, Yosef GROSS
  • Publication number: 20150073308
    Abstract: The present disclosure provides devices for supporting pelvic floor tissues to decrease the incidence of pelvic floor injuries during child birth. In one aspect, a pelvic floor support device is positioned adjacent the pelvic floor tissues. The pelvic floor support device includes a support member having a pressure surface configured for engagement with tissue adjacent the pelvic floor and a pressure detecting system associated with the pelvic floor support member to detect pressure indicative of pressure on the pelvic floor of a patient.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 17, 2014
    Publication date: March 12, 2015
    Inventors: David D. Blurton, Mark Buchanan
  • Patent number: 8951212
    Abstract: The method is for monitoring a childbirth process of a pregnant woman. A plurality of cervix dilatation data and fetal positioning data are obtained and fed to a device. A plurality of lactate concentrations is measured at time intervals. The measured lactate concentrations are shown on a display of the device at the time intervals to show a trend of the lactate concentrations. The cervix dilation data and the fetal positioning data are also shown on the display. The lactate concentrations are evaluated to determine whether the lactate concentrations are rising to indicate that an individual lactate threshold value of the pregnant woman has been exceeded. The medical practitioner may also evaluate the cervix dilation data and the fetal positioning data.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 9, 2012
    Date of Patent: February 10, 2015
    Assignee: Obstecare AB
    Inventors: Johan Itzel, Eva Itzel
  • Patent number: 8939918
    Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention include a calibration and measurement system designed primarily for use in the rapid evaluation and characterization of open or visible wounds in patients. The invention in a preferred embodiment comprises a set of colored concentric rings, typically constructed of paper or synthetic paper. The practitioner removes only as many rings, from the center outward, until the entire wound is visible within the open aperture at the center of the remaining rings. The area dimensions of the wound are then read out from the size of the inner remaining ring. Photography optionally records the wound appearance and size. A related system is developed for linear dimensioning of wounds. This embodiment is also designed to standardize the color scheme for accurate photography wound description. The color scheme is also applicable to a linear device to accurately describe wound size. Embodiments of the invention are also useful in forensic and accident investigations.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 27, 2012
    Date of Patent: January 27, 2015
    Inventor: Thomas J. Richards
  • Patent number: 8888719
    Abstract: The present disclosure provides devices for decreasing the incidence of Cesarean childbirth by managing the labor process. In one aspect, a tactile feedback device is positioned adjacent the perianal tissues. A perianal support device includes a perianal support member having a pressure surface configured for engagement with tissue adjacent an anal orifice and a pressure detecting system associated with the perianal support member to detect pressure indicative of pressure on the perianal tissue of a patient.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 3, 2014
    Date of Patent: November 18, 2014
    Assignee: Plexus Biomedical, Inc.
    Inventors: David D. Blurton, Mark Buchanan
  • Publication number: 20140323922
    Abstract: There is provided a system of transmitting partograph information and analysing the same comprising a client device adapted to receive partograph information as inputs; the inputs transmittable to a partograph processing server via a wireless communication network; wherein the partograph processing server is configured to receive the partograph information; conform the partograph information to a standardized format and disseminate the partograph information to at least one computer device. Preferably, the partograph processing server further comprises an analyser to analyse the partograph information for one or more abnormality condition and provides an alert to the at least one computer device and the client device. Alternatively, the analyser is installed in the client device in the form of a software application.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 13, 2012
    Publication date: October 30, 2014
    Applicant: Smart Hub Pte. Ltd.
    Inventors: Ramon G. Duremdes, Ian Christopher De Jesus, Kristian R. Sumabat, Kathryn T. Genson
  • Patent number: 8870793
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for evaluating labor progress during childbirth for an obstetrics patient are provided. A set of information data elements associated to an obstetrics patient are received, the set of information data elements including a cervical dilation measure and a level of descent indicator. The set of information data elements is processed to generate labor progress information associated to the obstetrics patient. The labor progress information conveys whether the level of descent indicator is within an expected range of levels of descent corresponding to the cervical dilation measure. A signal for causing the labor progress information to be provided to a user is then released.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 25, 2013
    Date of Patent: October 28, 2014
    Assignee: Perigen Inc.
    Inventor: Emily Hamilton
  • Patent number: 8874183
    Abstract: A system, method and apparatus for monitoring uterine and/or cervical activity indicative of labor in a patient. The system includes a medical device and a data processor in communication with the medical device. The medical device includes a structural component, a first electrode attached to the structural component, and a second electrode attached to the structural component. The structural component is structured to be in contact with a cervical surface and a vaginal surface of the patient, such that said first electrode is in electrical contact with said cervical surface and said second electrode is in electrical contact with said vaginal surface. The first electrode is adapted to receive an electrical activity of the cervical surface and the second electrode is adapted to receive an electrical activity of the uterus through the vaginal surface. The data processor is adapted to process the electrical activity of the electrodes to detect contractions on a surface of the patient indicative of labor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 18, 2011
    Date of Patent: October 28, 2014
    Assignee: The Johns Hopkins University
    Inventors: Abimbola Aina-Mumuney, Deepika Sagaram, Christopher Brandon Courville, Karin Hwang, Yi Rose Huang, Karin J. Blakemore, Sung Jin Sunwoo, Soumyadipta Acharya
  • Patent number: 8845539
    Abstract: Methods, systems and computer program products for estimating the gestational age of a fetus are provided. According to one embodiment, the method generates a component image from a segmented ultrasound image of a fetal head. The component image includes one or more edges. The method then identifies a third ventricle within the component image. The method estimates a length of a bi-parietal diameter, based at least in part on the orientation of the third ventricle. Thereafter, the method estimates the gestational age of the fetus.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 16, 2011
    Date of Patent: September 30, 2014
    Assignee: General Electric Company
    Inventors: Pavan Kumar Veerabhadra Annangi, Jyotirmoy Banerjee, Dirk Ryan Padfield
  • Patent number: 8821405
    Abstract: A cable monitoring apparatus includes a housing having an input interface adapted to electrically connect to one end of a medical cable and an output interface adapted to electrically connect to an electrical system. Signal processing circuitry is incorporated within the housing for receiving a medical signal from the medical cable via the input interface and for selectively passing the medical signal to the electrical system via the output interface when in a first mode of operation, and has application software for selectively testing functionality of the medical cable when in a second mode of operation. The medical signal may include at least one monitoring signal selected from a group consisting of fetal and maternal medical signals.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 5, 2012
    Date of Patent: September 2, 2014
    Assignee: Covidien LP
    Inventors: Peter F Meyer, Eliot Zaiken
  • Publication number: 20140221875
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for evaluating labor progress during childbirth for an obstetrics patient are provided. A set of information data elements associated to an obstetrics patient are received, the set of information data elements including a cervical dilation measure and a level of descent indicator. The set of information data elements is processed to generate labor progress information associated to the obstetrics patient. The labor progress information conveys whether the level of descent indicator is within an expected range of levels of descent corresponding to the cervical dilation measure. A signal for causing the labor progress information to be provided to a user is then released.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 25, 2013
    Publication date: August 7, 2014
    Applicant: PERIGEN INC.
    Inventor: Emily HAMILTON
  • Patent number: 8795205
    Abstract: An optical displacement sensor is provided according to one embodiment. The optical displacement sensor comprises a housing; a displacement member coupled to the housing, configured to contact an object under test and move based on displacement of the object under test; a light emitter coupled to the housing; an optical transducer coupled to the housing; and a reflecting surface coupled to the displacement member to reflect at least a part of the light emitted from the light emitter to the optical transducer, such that movement of the displacement member modifies intensity distribution of the light reflected to the optical transducer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 29, 2011
    Date of Patent: August 5, 2014
    Assignee: General Electric Company
    Inventors: Sandip Maity, Kunal Ravindra Goray, Nasir Ahmed Desai, Kiran Kumar Bogineni, Sampa Ghosh, Rachit Sharma
  • Publication number: 20140180169
    Abstract: A signal processing arrangement 130, a monitoring system 100, a signal processing method, a monitoring method of monitoring uterine contractions of a pregnant woman, and a computer program product are provided. The signal processing arrangement 130 receives an electrophysiological signal 116 representing uterine muscle activity of a pregnant woman at an input 132. A filter 136 generates a filtered electrohysterogram signal from the electrophysiological signal 116. The filter 136 allows the passage of spectral components between 0 and 3 Hz. A window function applicator 138 applies a window function to the filtered electrohysterogram signal to obtain an output waveform 146. The window function defines that samples of a time interval preceding the application of the window function need to be used The output waveform 146 simulates output data of tocodynamometer or an intra-uterine pressure catheter. The output waveform 146 is provided at an output 144 of the signal processing arrangement.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 24, 2012
    Publication date: June 26, 2014
    Applicant: NEMO HEALTHCARE B.V.
    Inventors: Christiaan Hendrik Leonard PETERS, Rik VULLINGS
  • Patent number: 8753293
    Abstract: A childbirth control system is provided to control the labor process of a patient. The patient's physical information of the patient and her fetus is continuously obtained during the labor via a plurality of diagnosis devices connected to a user terminal. The system includes an analysis module, which generates a childbirth progress data by continuously comparing the series of patient's measurement data with a series of reference measurement data. The childbirth progress data is provided on the user terminal to show the current progress of the childbirth as well as suggestions as to alternative childbirth method and medical treatment options. The system also provides the childbirth progress data to the user terminal of remotely located medical service providers, and allows them to remotely assist the childbirth process.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 10, 2012
    Date of Patent: June 17, 2014
    Inventors: Yun Seok Yang, Hee In Choi
  • Publication number: 20140094716
    Abstract: Methods and systems for zeroing an intrauterine pressure catheter system are provided. The interface cable system includes a first connector and a second connector configured to provide electrical interconnection between an intrauterine pressure catheter and a monitoring system. The interface cable system includes a plurality of conductors extending between s the first and second connectors. A momentary switch is configured to activate a zeroing operation for a predetermined time period. The zeroing operation may include activating a switching element subsequent to the release of the momentary switch. An indicator is configured to provide an indication, during the predetermined time period, that the zeroing operation can be completed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 30, 2013
    Publication date: April 3, 2014
    Applicant: Covidien LP
    Inventors: Eliot J. Zaiken, Stewart W. Low, MaryJo A. Griffin
  • Patent number: 8684954
    Abstract: The present disclosure provides devices for decreasing the incidence of Cesarean childbirth by managing the labor process. In one aspect, a tactile feedback device is positioned adjacent the perianal tissues. A perianal support device includes a perianal support member having a pressure surface configured for engagement with tissue adjacent an anal orifice and a pressure detecting system associated with the perianal support member to detect pressure indicative of pressure on the perianal tissue of a patient.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 15, 2013
    Date of Patent: April 1, 2014
    Assignee: Plexus Biomedical, Inc.
    Inventors: David D. Blurton, Mark Buchanan
  • Publication number: 20140039340
    Abstract: The invention includes, in part, methods and apparatus for determining the status of labor in a pregnant subject. In some embodiments of the invention, organ-level uterine function is determined as a measure of the status of labor such as non-labor (e.g. false labor), latent phase labor, active phase labor, or post-delivery.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 21, 2012
    Publication date: February 6, 2014
    Applicant: University of Vermont and State Agricultural College
    Inventor: Roger C. Young
  • Patent number: 8636676
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for evaluating labor progress during childbirth for an obstetrics patient are provided. A set of information data elements associated to an obstetrics patient are received, the set of information data elements including a cervical dilation measure and a level of descent indicator. The set of information data elements is processed to generate labor progress information associated to the obstetrics patient. The labor progress information conveys whether the level of descent indicator is within an expected range of levels of descent corresponding to the cervical dilation measure. A signal for causing the labor progress information to be provided to a user is then released.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 12, 2006
    Date of Patent: January 28, 2014
    Assignee: Perigen, Inc
    Inventor: Emily Hamilton
  • Patent number: 8597306
    Abstract: Provided herein are methods for decreasing the incidence of Cesarean childbirth by managing the labor process. In one aspect, a tactile feedback device is positioned adjacent the perianal tissues. A mother's labor is monitored for the progression of the baby along the birth canal and adjustments are performed in response to the progression of labor to promote a vaginal childbirth. A perianal support device includes a perianal support member having a pressure surface configured for engagement with tissue adjacent an anal orifice and a pressure detecting system associated with the perianal support member to detect pressure indicative of pressure on the perianal tissue of a patient.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 15, 2013
    Date of Patent: December 3, 2013
    Assignee: Plexus Biomedical, Inc.
    Inventors: David D. Blurton, Mark Buchanan
  • Patent number: 8574172
    Abstract: Apparatus for monitoring a pregnant mammal including: a sensor (11) operatively associated with a mammal to detect a condition of delivery of said mammal; a transmission circuit (15), operatively associated with said sensor (11), to generate and transmit a notification signal (100) based on the detection of said sensor (11), and a processing unit (20) operatively associated with said sensor (11) to receive said notification signal (100) and generate a corresponding communication signal (110) for an operator. The description also covers a process for monitoring a pregnant mammal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 9, 2009
    Date of Patent: November 5, 2013
    Inventor: Enrico Cinti
  • Patent number: 8556832
    Abstract: The present invention provides a system for enabling the sensing of changes in pressure in response to uterine muscle tone changes relating to contractions, and for enabling the evaluation of contractions based thereon. The system enables a portion thereof to effectively and efficiently project at least partially below the non-compressed abdominal surface, and provides electrical isolation of the system elements. It enables ease of use and enhanced patient comfort. It also enables maximized sensitivity and minimized system loading retention pressure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 29, 2010
    Date of Patent: October 15, 2013
    Assignee: Parker Hannifin Corporation
    Inventor: Roy K. Kodama
  • Publication number: 20130253376
    Abstract: A vaginal dilation device is provided that may include any of a number of features. One feature of the vaginal dilation device is that it is configured to dilate vaginal tissue during labor to prevent tissue damage. Another feature of the vaginal dilation device is that it can be manually controlled to dilate vaginal tissue, or can be automatically controlled to dilate vaginal tissue. In some embodiments, the vaginal dilation device is configured to measure a force applied by the device to tissue. In other embodiments, the vaginal dilation device is configured to apply a constant force to tissue. In other embodiments, the vaginal dilation device is configured to expand at a constant rate. Methods associated with use of the vaginal dilation device are also provided.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 13, 2011
    Publication date: September 26, 2013
    Inventors: Mark Juravic, Michael Stewart
  • Publication number: 20130245501
    Abstract: Apparatus that provides accurate readings and measurements of the dilation of an expectant mother's cervix during pregnancy—during and/or before the onset of labor. The apparatus envisioned by the present invention includes a speculum, control panel, prongs used to make contact with the birth canal walls, a tensile device which may be used to calculate the cervical dilation, a video camera and light source for viewing within the birth canal. The accuracy of measurements obtained by the apparatus properly indicate the expectant mother's progression of labor. Monitors may also be used in conjunction with the apparatus for viewing and measuring the cervical dilation. Additionally, processors may also be used to assist in further analysis and cervical dilation measurement.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 13, 2013
    Publication date: September 19, 2013
    Inventor: VALERIE L. TANIS
  • Publication number: 20130245463
    Abstract: A method of displaying physiological information in a patient monitoring system is provided. The method includes receiving a user input as a digital annotation, maintaining the digital annotation as at least a part of patient monitoring data and displaying the digital annotation concurrently with information displayed by the patient monitoring system.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 11, 2012
    Publication date: September 19, 2013
    Inventors: Susan Stuebe, Wilbur Cruz Colaco, Judy Moore, Nicola Telling, Juan Antonio Vidal Wagner
  • Patent number: 8512261
    Abstract: A Perineal elasticity meter having a circular central stem marked with millimeter markings and a sleeve portion surrounding the circular stem. Hinges connect the sleeve to expanders that extend from the circular stem. The perineal elasticity meter is configured to be inserted into the vagina of a patient in order to measure the elasticity of the perineal area. The sleeve includes an opening that shows a circumferential measurement achieved by the expansion of the expanders, as the sleeve moves along the central stem. Another perineal elasticity meter includes two stems connected via a hinge at a proximal portion of the stems. The proximal portions of the stems are configured to be inserted into the vagina of a patient and a measurement is taken of a distance between the expanded distal portion of the stems, thereby measuring the elasticity of the perineal area.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 25, 2008
    Date of Patent: August 20, 2013
    Inventors: Miriam R. Diniz Zanetti, Mary Nakamura
  • Patent number: 8500282
    Abstract: An apparatus consistent with the present invention comprises a sensor for receiving a signal representing eye tremor and a processor for monitoring eye tremor while receiving the signal. A method consistent with the present invention includes receiving a signal representing eye tremor, comparing the received signal representing eye tremor to at least one reference value, and classifying a patient's brain stem function using the comparison of the received signal representing eye tremor to at least one reference value. An embodiment consistent with the present invention includes an ocular micro tremor (OMT) sensor and associated signal processing hardware and software for clinical analyses.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 22, 2011
    Date of Patent: August 6, 2013
    Assignee: Boston Brainstem, Inc.
    Inventors: Ciaran Bolger, Steven W. Arms, Christopher P. Townsend, Kurt R. Smith
  • Patent number: 8491503
    Abstract: An interface cable system for providing electrical interconnection between an intrauterine pressure catheter system and a monitoring system is provided. The interface cable system includes a first connector configured to provide electrical interconnection between the interface cable system and the intrauterine pressure catheter system and a second connector configured to provide electrical interconnection between the interface cable system and the monitoring system. The interface cable system also includes a plurality of conductors extending between said first connector and said second connector and a switching element for configuring the interface cable system to provide, upon operation of the switching element, a time period in which a zeroing operation of the intrauterine pressure catheter system may be performed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 29, 2004
    Date of Patent: July 23, 2013
    Assignee: Covidien LP
    Inventors: Eliot J. Zaiken, MaryJo A. Toomey, Stewart W. Low