Importance

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Abstract

A disposable apparatus for monitoring intrauterine pressure and fetal heart rate during labor and childbirth. The apparatus includes a semiconductor pressure transducer mounted on a substrate. In one embodiment, the substrate is secured within a flexible boot adapted to allow the pressure pulses present in a uterus to be communicated to the pressure transducer by way of a gel placed in aligned holes provided in both the substrate and the flexible boot. The pressure transducer is located at the leading end of a cable which includes electrical conductors. A plurality of electrodes are also disposed along the outer surface of the cable so as to be able to receive the electrical signals generated by the heart of the fetus. Each of the electrodes and the pressure transducer are connected to a monitor/display device by way of the conductors within the cable. The cable may be provided with an internal stiffening stylet to facilitate insertion of the apparatus into the uterus or other body compartment. The internal structure of the cable is provided with a vent channel which communicates with the semiconductor transducer and extends along the cable to a hole in the plug on the distal end of the cable, to permit calibration and/or referencing of the transducer to atmospheric pressure. In one embodiment a lumen is provided in the cable to allow sampling of body fluids or infusion of fluids into the body.

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First Claim