Associated With Parturition Patents (Class 600/588)
-
Patent number: 12213453Abstract: An image capture device with processors can execute a set of instructions stored in the system memory to: receive a plurality of time-sequenced images of the animal from the digital image sensor; determine, using an artificial intelligence module, a first birth in process from a first subset of images of the plurality of time-sequenced images of the animal; and determine an interval of time lapse between the first birth in process from the first subset of images of the plurality of time-sequenced images of the animal and a next birth in process from the next subset of images of the plurality of time-sequenced images of the animal, as determined using the artificial intelligence module, and when the interval of time lapse between the first birth in process and the next birth in process exceeds a predetermined amount trigger an action from an alert trigger.Type: GrantFiled: October 24, 2019Date of Patent: February 4, 2025Assignee: SwineTech, Inc.Inventors: Matthew Rooda, Abraham Espinoza, John Rourke, Ben White, Adam Magstadt
-
Patent number: 12196638Abstract: A method for manufacturing a sensor including 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. The method includes 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. The method includes sealing the at least one diaphragm opening.Type: GrantFiled: November 3, 2023Date of Patent: January 14, 2025Assignee: ROBERT BOSCH GMBHInventors: 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: 11892326Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: October 10, 2022Date of Patent: February 6, 2024Assignee: Aronix LLCInventors: Arun Narayan Patil, Anand Raghunath Bhave, Sunanda Narayan Patil, Pratibha Narayan Patil
-
Patent number: 11877850Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: February 19, 2021Date of Patent: January 23, 2024Assignee: 3VO Medical, Inc.Inventors: Ed Chinchoy, James Kelley, Jay Snell
-
Patent number: 11841283Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: November 12, 2021Date of Patent: December 12, 2023Assignee: ROBERT BOSCH GMBHInventors: 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: 11821803Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: August 4, 2021Date of Patent: November 21, 2023Assignee: ROBERT BOSCH GMBHInventors: Dorothee Nonnenmacher, Gustav Klett, Joachim Kreutzer, Joachim Friedl, Lars Sodan
-
Patent number: 11798677Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: December 31, 2019Date of Patent: October 24, 2023Assignee: GE PRECISION HEALTHCARE LLCInventors: Lucienne van der Veen, Christian Fritz Perrey
-
Patent number: 11712248Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: December 9, 2019Date of Patent: August 1, 2023Assignees: 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: 11660228Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: January 28, 2020Date of Patent: May 30, 2023Assignee: Oura Health OyInventors: Thomas G. Goff, Kirby Chiang, Nathaniel L. Bowditch
-
Patent number: 11399817Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: October 30, 2019Date of Patent: August 2, 2022Assignee: BOSTON SCIENTIFIC SCIMED, INC.Inventors: Laura Finn Miller, Jonathan Patrick Wittrock, Ryan S. Bennett, Timothy Lawrence Rubesch, Corey Tillman, Kevin Martin
-
Patent number: 10828476Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: July 11, 2016Date of Patent: November 10, 2020Assignee: MATERNA MEDICAL, INC.Inventor: Mark Juravic
-
Patent number: 10820884Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: December 16, 2015Date of Patent: November 3, 2020Assignee: SAMSUNG MEDISON CO., LTD.Inventors: Kwang-hee Lee, Jun-sang Yoo, Gil-ju Jin, Eun-ho Yang
-
Patent number: 10632009Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: November 19, 2018Date of Patent: April 28, 2020Assignee: HANCOCK MEDICAL, INC.Inventors: Thomas G. Goff, Kirby Chiang, Nathaniel L. Bowditch
-
Patent number: 10278581Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: July 31, 2014Date of Patent: May 7, 2019Assignee: Bloom Technologies NVInventor: Richard S. Gaster
-
Patent number: 10278635Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: November 30, 2012Date of Patent: May 7, 2019Assignee: Viewcare Technologies 1 ApSInventors: Birthe Irene Dinesen, Diana Kjær Thing Riknagel, Johannes Jan Struijk
-
Patent number: 10031036Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: January 27, 2017Date of Patent: July 24, 2018Assignee: SAMSUNG DISPLAY CO., LTD.Inventors: Minsung Kim, Thanhtien Nguyen, Kiju Im
-
Patent number: 9993192Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: November 27, 2013Date of Patent: June 12, 2018Assignee: Stetrix, Inc.Inventors: David D. Blurton, Mark Buchanan
-
Patent number: 9947097Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: January 19, 2016Date of Patent: April 17, 2018Assignee: GENERAL ELECTRIC COMPANYInventors: Christian Fritz Perrey, Klaus Pintoffl, Walter Duda, Jr., Lucienne van der Veen
-
Patent number: 9642561Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: February 4, 2015Date of Patent: May 9, 2017Inventor: Ankit K. Mehta
-
Patent number: 9603602Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: September 22, 2016Date of Patent: March 28, 2017Assignee: Eastern Virginia Medical SchoolInventor: Alfred Z. Abuhamad
-
Patent number: 9597055Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: January 7, 2011Date of Patent: March 21, 2017Assignee: General Electric CompanyInventors: Serguei Kabakov, Steven M. Falk, Karsten A. Russell-wood
-
Patent number: 9307919Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: November 8, 2010Date of Patent: April 12, 2016Inventors: Neil Russell Euliano, II, Dorothee Marossero
-
Patent number: 9248297Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: December 15, 2010Date of Patent: February 2, 2016Assignee: NEURODAN A/SInventors: Michael Høyer, Clemens Florian Eder, Morten Hansen
-
Patent number: 9017270Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: March 21, 2011Date of Patent: April 28, 2015Assignee: OB Technologies, LLCInventors: M. Bardett Fausett, Jonathan W. Hander, Edwin W. Hander
-
Publication number: 20150094620Abstract: 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: ApplicationFiled: October 27, 2014Publication date: April 2, 2015Inventors: Jonathan P. BAUER, Dean R. KOCH, Paul E. MCCREADIE, Michael Glenn ROSS, Craig B. BERKY
-
Publication number: 20150087932Abstract: 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: ApplicationFiled: December 2, 2014Publication date: March 26, 2015Inventors: Avner HALPERIN, Arkadi Averboukh, Yosef GROSS
-
Publication number: 20150073308Abstract: 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: ApplicationFiled: November 17, 2014Publication date: March 12, 2015Inventors: David D. Blurton, Mark Buchanan
-
Patent number: 8951212Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: April 9, 2012Date of Patent: February 10, 2015Assignee: Obstecare ABInventors: Johan Itzel, Eva Itzel
-
Patent number: 8939918Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: February 27, 2012Date of Patent: January 27, 2015Inventor: Thomas J. Richards
-
Patent number: 8888719Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: March 3, 2014Date of Patent: November 18, 2014Assignee: Plexus Biomedical, Inc.Inventors: David D. Blurton, Mark Buchanan
-
Publication number: 20140323922Abstract: 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: ApplicationFiled: December 13, 2012Publication date: October 30, 2014Applicant: Smart Hub Pte. Ltd.Inventors: Ramon G. Duremdes, Ian Christopher De Jesus, Kristian R. Sumabat, Kathryn T. Genson
-
Patent number: 8874183Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: February 18, 2011Date of Patent: October 28, 2014Assignee: The Johns Hopkins UniversityInventors: Abimbola Aina-Mumuney, Deepika Sagaram, Christopher Brandon Courville, Karin Hwang, Yi Rose Huang, Karin J. Blakemore, Sung Jin Sunwoo, Soumyadipta Acharya
-
Patent number: 8870793Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: September 25, 2013Date of Patent: October 28, 2014Assignee: Perigen Inc.Inventor: Emily Hamilton
-
Patent number: 8845539Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: December 16, 2011Date of Patent: September 30, 2014Assignee: General Electric CompanyInventors: Pavan Kumar Veerabhadra Annangi, Jyotirmoy Banerjee, Dirk Ryan Padfield
-
Patent number: 8821405Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: January 5, 2012Date of Patent: September 2, 2014Assignee: Covidien LPInventors: Peter F Meyer, Eliot Zaiken
-
Publication number: 20140221875Abstract: 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: ApplicationFiled: September 25, 2013Publication date: August 7, 2014Applicant: PERIGEN INC.Inventor: Emily HAMILTON
-
Patent number: 8795205Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: April 29, 2011Date of Patent: August 5, 2014Assignee: General Electric CompanyInventors: Sandip Maity, Kunal Ravindra Goray, Nasir Ahmed Desai, Kiran Kumar Bogineni, Sampa Ghosh, Rachit Sharma
-
Publication number: 20140180169Abstract: 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: ApplicationFiled: December 24, 2012Publication date: June 26, 2014Applicant: NEMO HEALTHCARE B.V.Inventors: Christiaan Hendrik Leonard PETERS, Rik VULLINGS
-
Patent number: 8753293Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: July 10, 2012Date of Patent: June 17, 2014Inventors: Yun Seok Yang, Hee In Choi
-
Publication number: 20140094716Abstract: 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: ApplicationFiled: September 30, 2013Publication date: April 3, 2014Applicant: Covidien LPInventors: Eliot J. Zaiken, Stewart W. Low, MaryJo A. Griffin
-
Patent number: 8684954Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: March 15, 2013Date of Patent: April 1, 2014Assignee: Plexus Biomedical, Inc.Inventors: David D. Blurton, Mark Buchanan
-
Publication number: 20140039340Abstract: 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: ApplicationFiled: March 21, 2012Publication date: February 6, 2014Applicant: University of Vermont and State Agricultural CollegeInventor: Roger C. Young
-
Patent number: 8636676Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: January 12, 2006Date of Patent: January 28, 2014Assignee: Perigen, IncInventor: Emily Hamilton
-
Patent number: 8597306Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: March 15, 2013Date of Patent: December 3, 2013Assignee: Plexus Biomedical, Inc.Inventors: David D. Blurton, Mark Buchanan
-
Patent number: 8574172Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: November 9, 2009Date of Patent: November 5, 2013Inventor: Enrico Cinti
-
Patent number: 8556832Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: December 29, 2010Date of Patent: October 15, 2013Assignee: Parker Hannifin CorporationInventor: Roy K. Kodama
-
Publication number: 20130253376Abstract: 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: ApplicationFiled: April 13, 2011Publication date: September 26, 2013Inventors: Mark Juravic, Michael Stewart
-
Publication number: 20130245501Abstract: 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: ApplicationFiled: March 13, 2013Publication date: September 19, 2013Inventor: VALERIE L. TANIS
-
Publication number: 20130245463Abstract: 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: ApplicationFiled: September 11, 2012Publication date: September 19, 2013Inventors: Susan Stuebe, Wilbur Cruz Colaco, Judy Moore, Nicola Telling, Juan Antonio Vidal Wagner
-
Patent number: 8512261Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: June 25, 2008Date of Patent: August 20, 2013Inventors: Miriam R. Diniz Zanetti, Mary Nakamura