SENSOR FOR INTRAUTERINE USE

摘要

A sensor placement and retention mechanism for use with fetal sensor sites beyond the uses reach are disclosed. The preferred embodiment of this invention is a fetal pulse oximetry sensor having an active face through whi ch a light source and a light detector operate. The sensor includes a handle that facilitates placement of the active face at a sensor site in a preferred region beyond the transcervical region and beyond the reach of the user. A pair of electrodes-- one disposed against the fetus' skin and one exposed to the amniotic fluid-- are used to confirm that the sensor is firmly in place on the fetus. In an optional sensor retention feature, a self-inflating bladder presses the active face of the sensor against the fetus' skin to optically couple the sensor with the tissue at the sensor site.