Method and apparatus for monitoring cervical diameter
US6039701A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Sep 5, 1996 |
| Grant date | Mar 21, 2000 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Sep 5, 2016 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC A)Human Necessities
- CPC primaryA61B2562/0261
- WIPO fieldMedical technology
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
An apparatus for measuring cervical diameter comprises a support structure and measurement devices for detecting changes in cervical diameter, either directly or indirectly through changes in the size of the support structure. The support structure may conform to a cervical surface, typically being a peripherally expansible lumen or expansible structure. Alternatively, the support structure may engage the vaginal wall or fornices. Measurement devices may include gages which determine change in sizes of an expansible loop, electronic devices for measuring changes in transmitted or reflected energy, or combinations thereof. The devices are suitable for use on ambulatory patients and in out-patient situations.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.