Abstract: The obstetrical vacuum extractor includes a vacuum cup molded of a first, relatively rigid material, with a lip of a second, relatively soft material secured along the basal opening. An elongated hollow stem which may be coupled to a vacuum source communicates with the interior and, accordingly, the basal opening of the vacuum cup. The first, relatively rigid material of the cup is preferably substantially transparent so that the physician may readily monitor the condition of the fetal scalp throughout delivery.
Type:
Grant
Filed:
May 9, 1997
Date of Patent:
August 10, 1999
Assignee:
Pristech, Inc.
Inventors:
Jerry Dwayne Hulse, William Henry Wright
Abstract: A vacuum extractor for use in childbirth which enables the baby's head to be easily maneuvered during delivery. The extractor comprises an open cup with an elongated stem having an opening through which a vacuum may be provided within the cup, and a pair of elongated arms coupled to the cup along substantially opposite sides of the cup. The arms are coupled to the cup by living hinges which allow at least one of the arms to be positioned against the rear, closed portion of the cup such that the extractor presents a relatively low profile for facilitating insertion of the extractor during childbirth. Once in position on the baby's head within the womb, the handles provided at the opposite ends of the arms may be used to maneuver the baby's head during delivery.