Abstract:
A presenting part fetal pulse oximeter sensor which does not penetrate the fetus' skin, and does not rely on a vacuum for attachment is provided. The fetal sensor (10) of the present invention is held in place by pressure applied to the fetus by a number of different mechanisms. In one embodiment, the sensor is held in place against the fetus by a rigid rod (12), with the pressure being applied by the physician or technican's hand on the rod. This type of sensor is useful for spot-checking, where continuous monitoring is not needed. In another embodiment, a pre-loaded spring (24) is coupled between the rod and the sensor head to prevent too much pressure being applied by the user.
Abstract:
A fetal pulse oximeter sensor in which a sensor head (10) is held against the fetus (14) by the action of a securing means (20, 24) which is remote from the sensor head. The securing means is sufficiently remote so that light detected by the light detector (48) in the sensor head does not scatter through tissue which may be deformed by the securing mechanism. The securing mechanism could deform the tissue by applying pressure, to exanguinate the tissue, or could attach to the tissue by vacuum, penetration, or glue, etc.
Abstract:
A fetal pulse oximeter sensor (22, 24) is mounted on a sensor head (10) with articulating means comprising a cable (26) or rod, lodged in a lumen (36) on one side of the sensor to either push or pull that side of the sensor with respect to the main body, thus causing the sensor head to articulate. By using the articulating mechanism, the sensor head can be applied with pressure against the fetus' scalp, until an adhesive (34) takes hold, preferably an adhesive which is appropriate for the wet surface. The adhesive has sufficient adhering properties to maintain the sensor in place, without requiring suction, while at the same time does not damage the fetus' skin upon removal.