Inventors:
Hadi Piraka - Northville MI 48167
International Classification:
A61M 2900
Abstract:
A uterine balloon apparatus and method for countering hemorrhaging in a patient after childbirth. The balloon apparatus is comprised of a balloon, a physiologic fluid, such as a normal saline solution and a control. A characteristic feature of the invention is that a fluid pressure inside of the balloon is maintained at a safe level by the control as a uterus contracts to resume its physiologic function. The control is comprised of a pressure relief valve, a pressure regulator valve, a fill valve and flexible tubing. Another characteristic feature of the invention is that the fluid pressure inside of the balloon is prevented from exceeding a level which would cause a premature ejection of the balloon or damage to the uterus. The balloon in an inflated state, is inserted into the uterus with the assistance of a catheter which extends part way into the interior of the balloon. After the balloon has been inserted, a sufficient quantity of a warm physiologic fluid, such as a normal saline solution is infused into the balloon to distend the balloon against the uterine wall and terminate bleeding.