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Novel Mechanical Arm to Assist with Neonatal Umbilical Vessel Catheter Placement

IP Title: Apparatuses and Methods for Supporting an Umbilicus

Detailed Technology Description: None

Application Date: Jan 10, 2012

Application No.: 9,492,175

Others

*Abstract

Invention

This mechanical arm assists with neonatal umbilical vessel catheter placement. Placement of umbilical arterial catheters (UAC) and umbilical venous catheters (UVC) into the umbilical artery and vein respectively has become routine in caring for ill premature and full-term newborns. With available techniques, placement of UACs and UVCs can be quite challenging and requires at least one assistant to hold the umbilicus during sterile preparation and throughout the procedure.

Researchers at the University of Florida have designed a mechanical arm that positions and secures the umbilicus, increasing the precision , sterility, and speed of UAC and UVC placement and eliminating the need for an assistant.

Applications

Mechanical device that assists with umbilical vessel cannulation in newborns

Advantages

Enhances physician’s ability to accurately position UACs and UVCs in ill or unstable newborns, reducing risk of complications during and after procedure
Eliminates need for an assistant during the procedure, promoting a more sterile environment
Illuminates area with a built in light, improving physician precision for faster umbilical vessel cannulation

Technology

The base of the device attaches to the newborn’s bed or incubator. An adjustable mechanical arm extends from the base to a manifold, which fastens to the umbilical clamp affixed immediately prior to intrapartum cord cutting. The arm is mobile, provides variable resistance, and locks in the desired position. This allows the arm to elevate the umbilicus for sterile preparation and drape, eliminating the need for an assistant during the procedure. Additionally, the mechanical arm may contain a power supply in the base and come equipped with lights built into the manifold, which will further assist the procedure by improving illumination. This will both increase the baby’s safety and reduce procedure.

*IP Issue Date: Nov 15, 2016

*IP Publication Date: May 10, 2012

*Principal Investigator: Name: Patrick Tighe
Department:

Name: Nicole Dobija
Department:

Country/Region: USA

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