U.S. patent number RE41,317 [Application Number 11/404,123] was granted by the patent office on 2010-05-04 for universal modular pulse oximeter probe for use with reusable and disposable patient attachment devices.
This patent grant is currently assigned to Masimo Corporation. Invention is credited to Brent Parker.
United States Patent |
RE41,317 |
Parker |
May 4, 2010 |
**Please see images for:
( Certificate of Correction ) ** |
Universal modular pulse oximeter probe for use with reusable and
disposable patient attachment devices
Abstract
.[.A system and method of standardizing modular probe housings
so that the standardized probe housings may be incorporated into
probes adapted to work with at least one of a multiplicity of
manufacturers' oximeters. The probe housings are adapted to
matingly engage at least a disposable bandage apparatus and a
reusable finger attachment device..]. .Iadd.A pulse oximeter system
comprises a finger attachment device having first and second probe
couplers, the first and second probe couplers are configured to be
matingly engageable with probe housings of a pulse oximeter
probe..Iaddend.
Inventors: |
Parker; Brent (Murrieta,
CA) |
Assignee: |
Masimo Corporation (Irvine,
CA)
|
Family
ID: |
32046161 |
Appl.
No.: |
11/404,123 |
Filed: |
April 13, 2006 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
Issue Date |
|
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09417898 |
Oct 14, 1999 |
6343224 |
|
|
|
09289647 |
Apr 12, 1999 |
6144868 |
|
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|
09758038 |
Jan 11, 2001 |
6684091 |
|
|
|
09679828 |
Oct 5, 2000 |
6519487 |
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|
09352144 |
Jul 13, 1999 |
6321100 |
|
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|
60104332 |
Oct 15, 1998 |
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Reissue of: |
09931273 |
Aug 17, 2001 |
06721585 |
Apr 13, 2004 |
|
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Current U.S.
Class: |
600/344;
600/310 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A61B
5/6826 (20130101); A61B 5/6838 (20130101); A61B
5/14552 (20130101); A61B 2560/0443 (20130101) |
Current International
Class: |
A61B
5/1455 (20060101) |
Field of
Search: |
;600/310,322,323,340,344 |
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Primary Examiner: Winakur; Eric F
Attorney, Agent or Firm: Knobbe Martens Olson & Bear
LLP
Parent Case Text
REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
This application is a continuation-in-part of application Ser. No.
09/417,898.Iadd., .Iaddend.filed Oct. 14, 1999.Iadd.,
.Iaddend.entitled REUSABLE PULSE.[.S.]. OXIMETER PROBE AND
DISPOSABLE BANDAGE APPARATUS.Iadd., .Iaddend.now U.S. Pat. No.
6,343,224, which in turn is a continuation-in-part of
.Iadd.application .Iaddend.Ser. No. 09/289,647.Iadd.,
.Iaddend.filed Apr. 12, 1999.Iadd., .Iaddend.entitled REUSABLE
PULSE OXIMETER PROBE AND DISPOSABLE BANDAGE APPARATUS.[.and.]. ,
now issued as U.S. Pat. No. 6,144,868.[.,.]. .Iadd.; .Iaddend.and
is a continuation-in-part .Iadd.of .Iaddend.application .[.of.].
Ser. No. 09/679,828.Iadd., .Iaddend.filed Oct. 5, 2000.Iadd.,
entitled REUSABLE PULSE OXIMETER PROBE AND DISPOSABLE BANDAGE
APPARATUS, .Iaddend.now U.S. Pat. No. 6,519,487; and is a .[.CiP.].
.Iadd.continuation-in-part .Iaddend.of .Iadd.application
.Iaddend.Ser. No. 09/352,144.Iadd., .Iaddend.filed Jul. 13,
1999.[.and is CiP of.]. , .Iadd.entitled REUSABLE PULSE OXIMETER
PROBE WITH DISPOSABLE LINER, .Iaddend.now U.S. Pat. No. 6,321,100;
.Iadd.and is a continuation-in-part of application .Iaddend.Ser.
No. 09/758,038.Iadd., .Iaddend.filed Jan. 11, 2001.Iadd., entitled
REUSABLE PULSE OXIMETER PROBE AND DISPOSABLE BANDAGE METHOD, now
U.S. Pat. No. 6,684,091.Iaddend.; each of which is incorporated
herein by reference. This application claims benefit of U.S.
.[.provisonal.]. .Iadd.provisional .Iaddend.application No.
60/104,332.Iadd., .Iaddend.filed Oct. 15, 1998.
Claims
What is claimed is:
1. A pulse oximeter probe system comprising a probe having at least
one light emitting diode and at least one photocell detector
wherein said emitter and detector are incorporated into modular
.[.plastic.]. housings, at least one housing having an aperture or
radiation transparent window aligned with said diode, and at least
a second housing having an aperture or radiation transparent window
aligned with said detector; a selected one of: (a) a reusable
finger attachment device having a first modular receptacle pair
mounted thereon, or (b) a disposable bandage device having a second
modular receptacle pair mounted thereon; wherein respective ones of
said housings can lockingly engage and disengage respective ones of
said modular receptacles and transmit and receive light through the
appendage of a patient when the selected one of the above devices
(a) or (b) is attached to a patient and when the respective
housings of said probe are matedly engaged with the respective
receptacles of the attached device; and the receptacles of the
disposable bandage device or the reusable finger attachment device
have locking levers for lockingly engaging and disengaging said
modular probe housings, respectively.
2. The probe system of claim 1 in which said housings have
indentations for lockingly engaging and disengaging the levers of
receptacles of a disposable bandage apparatus or reusable finger
attachment device.
3. The probe system of claim 1 wherein said disposable bandage
apparatus incorporates radiation transparent windows for the
isolation of the probe housings from the patient.
4. The probe system of claim 1 in which the probe housings of
probes to be used on a multiplicity of manufacturers' oximeters are
adapted to be matedly engaged with a selected reusable finger
attachment device or a disposable bandage apparatus having
receptacles designed to mate with said probe housings.
5. A reusable finger attachment device for use with a pulse
oximeter probe incorporating modular housings, comprising said
attachment device incorporating modular receptacles for matingly
engaging said modular probe housings; wherein the receptacles of
the reusable finger attachment device have locking levers for
lockingly engaging and disengaging said modular probe housings.
6. The reusable finger attachment device of claim 5 which said
modular probe housings are adapted to be removed from said reusable
finger attachment device in order to clean or sterilize said
reusable finger attachment device.
7. A method of standardizing probes comprising designing probe
housings to be matingly engageable with modular receptacles of a
disposable bandage apparatus and a reusable finger attachment
device and further constructing said probe housings to be
incorporated into probes adapted to work with at least one of a
multiplicity of manufacturers' oximeters.
.Iadd.8. A standardized pulse oximeter probe comprising probe
housings designed to be matingly engageable with modular
receptacles of a disposable bandage apparatus and a reusable finger
attachment device, said probe housings constructed to be
incorporated into probes adapted to work with at least one of a
multiplicity of manufacturers' oximeters..Iaddend.
.Iadd.9. A disposable finger attachment device for use with a
reusable probe sensor assembly for sensing a physiological
parameter of a patient comprising a bandage apparatus and first and
second probe couplers, the bandage apparatus having adhesive on at
least a portion thereof, the first and second probe couplers being
operably attached to the bandage apparatus and configured to be
matingly engageable with probe housings of a reusable probe sensor
assembly, wherein the first and second probe couplers comprise
respective first and second locking mechanisms that lockingly
engage and disengage probe housings of a reusable probe sensor
assembly..Iaddend.
.Iadd.10. The device of claim 9, wherein said first and second
probe couplers are receptacles..Iaddend.
.Iadd.11. The device of claim 9, wherein said first and second
probe couplers are modular..Iaddend.
.Iadd.12. The device of claim 9, wherein at least one of said first
and second locking mechanisms comprise a fastener..Iaddend.
.Iadd.13. The device of claim 9, wherein at least one of said first
and second locking mechanisms comprise a hook-and-loop type
material..Iaddend.
.Iadd.14. The device of claim 9, wherein at least one of said first
and second locking mechanisms comprise a snap-on
connector..Iaddend.
.Iadd.15. The device of claim 9, wherein at least one of said first
and second locking mechanisms comprise a ring..Iaddend.
.Iadd.16. The device of claim 9, wherein at least one of said first
and second locking mechanisms comprise a groove..Iaddend.
.Iadd.17. The device of claim 9, wherein at least one of said first
and second locking mechanisms comprise a notch..Iaddend.
.Iadd.18. The device of claim 9, wherein at least one of said first
and second locking mechanisms comprise a twistable
connector..Iaddend.
.Iadd.19. The device of claim 9, wherein at least one of said first
and second locking mechanisms comprise a contoured portion of a
receptacle..Iaddend.
.Iadd.20. The device of claim 9, wherein at least one of said first
and second locking mechanisms comprise a threaded
connector..Iaddend.
.Iadd.21. The device of claim 9, wherein at least one of said first
and second locking mechanisms comprise a flange..Iaddend.
.Iadd.22. The device of claim 9, wherein at least one of said first
and second locking mechanisms comprise a tab..Iaddend.
.Iadd.23. The device of claim 9, wherein at least one of said first
and second locking mechanisms comprise an indentation..Iaddend.
.Iadd.24. The device of claim 9, wherein at least one of said first
and second locking mechanisms comprise a slot..Iaddend.
.Iadd.25. A pulse oximeter probe system comprising: a probe
assembly having an emitter, a detector, and first and second
modular housings for the emitter and detector, respectively; and a
finger attachment device having first and second modular
receptacles mounted thereon, said modular receptacles having
locking levers for lockingly engaging and disengaging with said
modular housings of said probe; wherein said probe assembly can
transmit and receive light through the appendage of a patient when
said finger attachment device is attached to a patient and when
said modular housings of said probe assembly are engaged with said
modular receptacles of said finger attachment device..Iaddend.
.Iadd.26. The system of claim 25, wherein said finger attachment
device is reusable..Iaddend.
.Iadd.27. The system of claim 25, wherein said finger attachment
device is disposable..Iaddend.
.Iadd.28. The system of claim 25, wherein said finger attachment
device comprises a bandage apparatus..Iaddend.
.Iadd.29. A disposable bandage apparatus for use with a reusable
probe sensor assembly having at least one emitter and at least one
detector, the emitter being enclosed in a first probe housing
having an aperture or radiation transparent window aligned with the
emitter, and the detector being enclosed in a second probe housing
having an aperture or radiation transparent window aligned with the
detector, the disposable bandage apparatus comprising a bandage
strip having adhesive on at least a portion of at least one face
thereof and first and second modular receptacles mounted thereon,
said first and second modular receptacles having respective first
and second apertures located therein, said first and second modular
receptacles being configured to lockingly engage and disengage with
the first and second probe housings such that the emitter can
transmit a signal to be received by the detector through the
apertures of said modular receptacles when engaged with the first
and second probe housings; wherein said first and second modular
receptacles comprise locking means for lockingly engaging and
disengaging the first and second probe housings..Iaddend.
.Iadd.30. The disposable bandage apparatus of claim 29 wherein at
least a portion of at least one of said modular receptacles is
plastic..Iaddend.
.Iadd.31. A method for the affixation of a reusable pulse oximeter
sensor to the digit of a patient, comprising: providing a
disposable finger attachment device with at least two apertures
therein and at least two receptacles operatively attached to an
adhesive bandage apparatus of the disposable finger attachment
device over said apertures, said at least two receptacles each at
least partially defining an aperture aligned with the respective
aperture of the finger attachment device, wherein said at least two
receptacles comprise respective first and second locking mechanisms
that lockingly engage and disengage probe housings of a reusable
pulse oximeter probe sensor; positioning said disposable finger
attachment device on the digit of the patient; and engaging probe
housings of the reusable pulse oximeter probe sensor with said at
least two receptacles..Iaddend.
.Iadd.32. A method of sensing a physiological parameter of a
patient, comprising: providing a probe assembly having an emitter,
a detector, and first and second modular housings for the emitter
and the detector; providing a disposable finger attachment device
having first and second modular receptacles operatively attached to
a bandage apparatus of the disposable finger attachment device, the
bandage apparatus having an adhesive on at least a portion thereof,
said modular receptacles being configured to lockingly engage and
disengage with said modular housings of said probe assembly,
wherein said first and second modular receptacles comprise
respective first and second locking mechanisms that lockingly
engage and disengage modular housings of the probe assembly; and
transmitting and receiving a signal through the appendage of a
patient when said finger attachment device is attached to a patient
and when said modular housings of said probe assembly are engaged
with said modular receptacles of said finger attachment
device..Iaddend.
Description
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
.Iadd.1. Field of the Invention
The present invention relates to a method of making and affixing a
reusable probe to a patient by means of disposable bandage
apparatus so that there is no contact between the costly, reusable
portion of the probe and the patient. The contaminated bandage
apparatus, which is relatively inexpensive, can then be discarded
after single patient use and the probe can be re-used with a new
bandage apparatus.
2. Description of the Related Art .Iaddend.
Heretofore the use of pulse oximeter probes has been limited to the
use of a costly, reusable probe, which is contaminated by use on a
patient, or cheaper, single-use probes, which, in the aggregate,
amount to a considerable expenditure for a healthcare
institution.
.Iadd.Others have attempted to convert single-use probes into
multi-use probes through a lamination process. In that process, the
original adhesive material is removed from the original
manufacturer's sensor. The sensor is then laminated in a plastic
sheath and the entire sheath is then inserted into a transparent,
adhesive-backed sleeve, which is then adhered to a patient. After
use, the probe can then be extracted from the sleeve and inserted
into a new sleeve for use on another patient.
There are certain disadvantages to this method. Firstly, it is
difficult to insert the flexible laminated sensor into a long
sleeve. Secondly, the thickness of a laminated sensor inside of a
sleeve makes it difficult to bend around, and to stick properly to,
a human appendage. Thirdly, transmission and reception of infrared
light can be affected by extraneous light entering from the sides
of the sleeve. And, fourthly, there is some dispute as to the
affect on infrared light transmission when passing through the
sleeve and the adhesive material coupled thereto.
One of the problems with pulse oximetry, and the continuity of
monitoring a patient, is the vast array of different monitors used
in different hospital departments. Many times a patient will start
out in the emergency room (ER) where the hospital utilizes one
particular brand of monitor. If a disposable probe is affixed to
the patient, and the patient is then admitted to intensive care,
the disposable probe that was affixed in the ER will only work if
the pulse oximeter used in intensive care is of the same make as
the one in the ER. If that same patient is once again taken to
radiology, or to have an MRI done, once again these different
departments may have different pulse oximeter monitors. What
happens many times is that the disposable probes affixed in one
department are thrown away and new ones are affixed in other
departments. Obviously, this creates additional expense in
providing pulse oximetry monitoring.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION .Iaddend.
The current applicant.Iadd., .Iaddend.in his U.S. Pat. No.
6,144,868, and subsequent continuations-in-part, has described a
reusable pulse oximeter probe to be used with a disposable bandage
apparatus. With this device, the costly reusable portion of the
probe is isolated from the patient by means of an inexpensive
bandage apparatus. This allows the caregiver to dispose of the
inexpensive bandage apparatus while retaining the more costly,
reusable portion of the probe. The reusable probe can then be used
in conjunction with another disposable bandage apparatus on another
patient.
.Iadd.One embodiment of the present invention is directed to
improving the form and affixation method of a reusable pulse
oximeter sensor. It comprises a reusable pulse oximeter probe with
at least one light emitting diode and one photocell detector
wherein said emitter and detector are enclosed in plastic housings,
one housing having an aperture or radiation transparent window
aligned with said emitter, and the other housing having an aperture
or radiation transparent window aligned with said detector. Also
included is a disposable bandage apparatus which is at least one
bandage strip having adhesive on at least a portion of at least one
face thereof and at least two plastic receptacles mounted thereon,
each receptacle having at least one aperture or radiation
transparent window located therein. The probe housings can matedly
engage said bandage receptacles and transmit and receive light
through the apertures or radiation transparent windows of said
mated housings and receptacles, and through the appendage of a
patient. The housings of the reusable pulse oximeter probe may also
be made of a material selected from plastic, rubber, metal, wood,
or other composite material. The receptacles of the disposable
bandage apparatus may also be made of a material selected from
plastic, rubber, metal, wood, or other composite material.
Additionally, the apertures of said receptacles are large enough to
accept the tubular protrusions of the housings for the purpose of
concentric location and alignment of the housings to the
receptacles and the proper transmission and reception of light
therethrough. Sandwiched between the adhesive strip and the
receptacles attached thereto, are translucent silicone windows or
windows of another radiation transparent material for isolation of
the reusable probe assembly from the patient. The bandage apparatus
may be discarded after single patient use and the reusable probe
may be used again on another patient in conjunction with another
bandage apparatus. Additionally, the receptacles of the bandage
apparatus may have a concave surface on one side thereof in order
to seat conformably on a human digit, or they may have a flat
surface on at least one side thereof in order to attach conformably
to a human foot, nose, or ear. The housings and receptacles also
contain "mushroom hook" type hook and loop material for the purpose
of adhering and detaching said housings to and from said
receptacles. Additionally, the housings and receptacles have
recessed areas for adhesion of the "mushroom hook" hook and loop
material.
In another embodiment of the invention, the receptacle of the
disposable bandage apparatus may be the mushroom hook material
itself which may be attached directly to the adhesive strip for the
selective engagement of the housings of the probe assembly.
In another embodiment of the invention, the housings of the pulse
oximeter probe may be affixed to the receptacles of the disposable
bandage apparatus by means of a "ring and groove" type snap-on
connector.
In yet another embodiment of the invention, the housings of the
reusable pulse oximeter probe may be affixed to the receptacles of
the disposable bandage apparatus by means of a "twist and lock"
type connector.
In a further embodiment of the invention, the housings of the pulse
oximeter probe may be affixed to the receptacles of the disposable
bandage apparatus by means of a "threaded flange" type of
connector.
In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the light emitting
diode and photocell detector of the probe assembly may be mounted
in modular housings with locking levers which can engage an
indentation or slot in the receptacles of the disposable bandage
apparatus and securely lock the housings into proper position
within the receptacles, thus allowing the transmission and
reception of infrared light through the mated housings and
receptacles and through the appendage of a patient.
In another variation of this preferred embodiment of the invention,
the levers and indentations are reversed, and the light emitting
diode and photocell detector of the probe assembly may be mounted
in modular housings having indentations therein, and the
receptacles of the disposable bandage apparatus may have the
locking lever located on them. In such an embodiment, the locking
levers of the bandage receptacles lockingly engage the slots or
indentations in the probe housings, thus locking them into place
within the receptacles and allowing the transmission and reception
of infrared light through the mated probe housings and bandage
receptacles, and through the appendage of a patient.
In these modular housing and receptacle embodiments, the radiation
transparent windows may be of hard plastic and may be mounted
against the skin of a patient, thus being used to secure the
receptacles on the opposite side of the bandage strip. This is
accomplished by the incorporation of locking levers on the
radiation transparent windows which are pushed through holes or
slots in the bandage and engage holes in the receptacles mounted on
the opposite side of the bandage, thus sandwiching the bandage in
between. A foam strip with holes in it may also be adhered to said
radiation transparent windows in order for them to rest comfortably
on a patient's appendage.
In another variation of the above, the bandage receptacles may be
secured to the bandage through the use of small plastic protrusions
or "heat stakes" mounted on the receptacles themselves. These
protrusions can be pushed through slots in the bandage and can be
melted on the other side of the bandage strip by means of an
ultrasonic welding machine, thus locking the receptacles into
position on the bandage strip. In this embodiment a radiation
transparent window may then be adhered to the underside of the
bandage strip and the heat stakes and radiation transparent windows
may then be overlaid with a foam pad with holes in it, the purpose
of which is to allow for the transmission and reception of infrared
light through the holes while aiding in patient comfort.
In some embodiments, one object is to provide a method of
facilitating the intra-departmental or inter-institutional
transport of a patient or patients requiring the pulse oximeter
monitoring, and wherein said pulse oximeters used for monitoring
said patient may be of different manufacturers. The method
comprises affixing to said patient a bandage apparatus having a
modular emitter and detector receptacles incorporated thereon,
providing each said different manufacturers' pulse oximeter probe
with modular housings adapted to matedly engage and/or disengage
with receptacles of the disposable bandage apparatus, thus enabling
said patient to be monitored by pulse oximeters of different
manufacturers without changing the affixed bandage apparatus.
With some embodiments of the present invention, intra-departmental
or inter-institutional transport is greatly facilitated by having a
bandage device which will accept probes of various manufacturers,
as long as those probes contain housings that will matedly engage
the receptacles of the disposable bandage apparatus.
Another embodiment of the present invention relates to a method of
making and affixing a reusable finger probe to a patient by means
of a finger clip apparatus with a disposable liner insert so that
there is no contact between the costly, reusable portion of the
probe and the patient. The contaminated liner, which is relatively
inexpensive, can then be discarded after single patient use and the
probe and finger clip can be re-used with a new liner.
Additionally, such disposable inserts may be provided of different
sizes and would greatly enhance the fit and function of the finger
clip on the patient. This is important for several reasons.
Firstly, a fitted finger clip would be more comfortable to wear
than conventional finger clips. Secondly, a fitted finger clip
would allow the transmission and reception of infrared light from
the LEDs of the probe without interference from extraneous light
sources around the front and edges of the finger, and thirdly, a
fitted finger clip would evenly distribute the pressure from the
spring of the finger clip and would be much less likely to restrict
blood flow to the digit and thereby cause erroneous oxygen
saturation readings.
Another embodiment of the present invention comprises a method for
improving the reusability, fit, and cleanliness of a reusable pulse
oximeter finger sensor. It comprises a reusable pulse oximeter
probe with at least one light emitting diode and one photocell
detector wherein said emitter and detector are mounted in
respective finger clip housing arms having apertures therein, one
housing arm having an aperture aligned with said emitter, and the
other housing arm having an aperture aligned with said detector.
Incorporated into each opposing side of the finger clip is a
T-shaped channel or slot with a locking protrusion or detent at the
entrance of each of the channels. Also included is a disposable
foam liner which is an initially, substantially planar, foam strip,
having plastic backing on at least a part thereof and two T-shaped
protrusions mounted in the lateral plane of said plastic backing.
At opposing ends of the foam strip, and incorporated into the
T-shaped protrusions, are notched levers for locking the foam strip
into position in the T-shaped channel of the finger clip. In the
center of the foam strip, the plastic backing is of a thickness
that will allow it to bend into a "U" shape for insertion into the
finger clip. Alternatively, the plastic backing may be entirely
absent and the inherent flexibility of the foam itself will allow
it to bend into the desired shape. Additionally, the foam strip
contains two apertures located centrally therein containing
silicone windows, or windows of another radiation transparent
material, that will allow for the transmission and reception of
infrared light. Additionally, the foam may also contain an adhesive
for helping to adhere the finger clip to the patient.
In another preferred embodiment of the invention, the finger clip
may be of scaled down design and would allow for the insertion of
different sizes of molded foam that would conform in size to the
digit on which the finger clip is to be used. In such an
application, the foam itself would be intended to substantially
envelop the finger and the finger clip would be a mechanism for
pinching or biasing the two foam halves together..Iaddend.
Despite the cost and safety advantages of the reusable probe and
disposable bandage apparatus over disposable probes, an increasing
number of institutions are beginning to utilize reusable finger
clip probes because of the cost savings associated with a
completely reusable product. Despite the discomfort of these
devices and the risk of spreading infection from patient to
patient, the trend toward reusable probes continues to
strengthen.
However, in all institutions there is always the need for some
disposable probes. Patients who have compromised immune systems,
surgical patients, where sterility is important, and neonatal and
pediatric patients, where the size of the appendage to be monitored
is too small for finger clips, require the use of disposable probes
or a disposable bandage apparatus.
Clearly, it would be advantageous to offer a universal, modular,
reusable probe that could be used in conjunction with either a
reusable finger attachment device or a disposable bandage
apparatus, each having receptacles into which the reusable probe
could be lockingly engaged and disengaged. In addition, probes from
all the different oximeter manufacturers could be standardized so
that they could be used in conjunction with these same patient
attachment devices.
.[.THE PRESENT INVENTION.].
.[.The.]. .Iadd.One embodiment of the .Iaddend.present invention is
directed to a system and a method of standardization of a pulse
oximeter probe wherein the probe comprises at least one light
emitting diode and at least one photocell detector wherein said
emitter and detector are incorporated into modular plastic
housings, at least one housing having an aperture or radiation
transparent window aligned with said emitter, and at least said
second housing having an aperture or radiation transparent window
aligned with said detector; wherein said housings can lockingly
engage and disengage receptacles mounted on at least either:
(a) a reusable finger attachment device, or
(b) a disposable bandage apparatus,
and transmit and receive light through the appendage of a patient
when either of the above devices are attached to a patient and when
the housings of said probe are matedly engaged with the receptacles
of the attached device.
The receptacles of the disposable bandage apparatus or the reusable
finger attachment device may have locking levers for lockingly
engaging and disengaging the modular probe housings.
The probe housings may have indentations or detentes for lockingly
engaging and disengaging the levers of the receptacles of the
disposable bandage apparatus or reusable finger attachment
device.
The disposable bandage apparatus may have radiation transparent
windows for the isolation of the probe housings from the
patient.
The probe housings may be standardized in size so that probes to
fit at least one of a multiplicity of manufacturers' oximeters will
incorporate housings that can be matedly engaged with either a
reusable finger attachment device or a disposable bandage
apparatus.
.[.What.]. .Iadd.According to one embodiment, what .Iaddend.is
disclosed is .[.the.]. .Iadd.a .Iaddend.method of supplying pulse
oximeter probes compatible with at least one of a multiplicity of
manufacturers' oximeters, said probe or probes incorporating
standardized probe housings, which can be matedly engaged with at
least either a reusable finger attachment device or a disposable
bandage apparatus.
.Iadd.BRIEF .Iaddend.DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
The above and other advantages of the invention will become more
clear when considered with the following specifications and
accompanying drawings wherein:
.Iadd.FIG. 1 is an exploded view of the reusable pulse oximeter
probe and disposable bandage apparatus incorporating one embodiment
of the invention;
FIG. 2 is a view of the reusable pulse oximeter probe and
disposable bandage apparatus shown individually as components of
the one embodiment of the invention;
FIG. 3 illustrates one embodiment of the invention in use on a
human finger or digit;
FIG. 4 illustrates an exploded view of another embodiment of the
invention in which the "mushroom hook" material itself is used as
the receptacle of the disposable bandage apparatus;
FIG. 5 illustrates an assembled view of a preferred embodiment of
the reusable pulse oximeter sensor in which the light-emitting
diode and photocell detector of the reusable probe are mounted in
modular housings with locking levers;
FIG. 6 illustrates an exploded view of a preferred embodiment of
the reusable pulse oximeter sensor;
FIG. 7 illustrates an exploded view of a preferred embodiment of a
bandage apparatus in which the receptacle tops incorporate a slot
for engaging the locking levers of modular probe housings, and
wherein radiation transparent windows are mounted on the opposite
side of the bandage strip, thus sandwiching and securing the
bandage in between the two receptacle halves by means of locking
levers;
FIG. 8 illustrates a preferred embodiment of the invention as it
would appear ready for use on a human digit;
FIG. 9 is a patient flow diagram showing the intra-departmental or
inter-institutional transport of a patient;
FIG. 10 is a schematic illustration of how probe housing can
utilize fiberoptic cable connecting a light emitter and detector to
a disposable bandage according to one embodiment of the
invention;
FIG. 11 illustrates an assembled view of another embodiment of the
invention in which the housings of the pulse oximeter probe are
affixed to the receptacles of the disposable bandage apparatus by
means of ring and groove type, snap-on connectors;
FIG. 12 illustrates an assembled view of another embodiment of the
invention in which the housings of the pulse oximeter probe are
affixed to the receptacles of the disposable bandage apparatus by
means of "twist and lock" type connectors;
FIG. 13 illustrates an assembled view of another embodiment of the
invention in which the housings of the of the pulse oximeter probe
are affixed to the receptacles of the disposable bandage apparatus
by means of a "threaded flange" type of connector;
FIG. 14 illustrates an exploded view of a preferred embodiment of
the reusable pulse oximeter probe in which the light emitting diode
and photocell detector of the probe are encased in housings having
a radiation transparent window therein and locking levers for
affixing the reusable pulse oximeter probe to the disposable
bandage apparatus;
FIG. 15 illustrates an exploded view of a preferred embodiment of
the disposable bandage apparatus in which the receptacle tops
incorporate a slot for engaging the locking levers of the modular
probe housings, and wherein the radiation transparent windows are
mounted on the opposite side of the bandage strip, thus sandwiching
and securing the bandage in between the two receptacle halves by
means of locking tabs or heat stakes that can be ultrasonically
welded;
FIG. 16 illustrates a preferred embodiment of the invention as it
would appear ready for use on a human digit;
FIG. 17 illustrates an exploded view of another preferred
embodiment of the invention in which the probe housings have a slot
or indentation incorporated therein and the bandage receptacles
have a locking lever for securing the housings to the
receptacles;
FIG. 18 illustrates an assembled view of one embodiment of the
invention in which the probe housings have a slot or indentation
incorporated therein and the bandage receptacles have a locking
lever for securing the housings to the receptacles;
FIG. 19 is an exploded view of a standard pulse oximeter probe and
finger clip with disposable liner;
FIG. 20 is an exploded view of one preferred embodiment of the
invention incorporating two disposable liners having finger
conformance;.Iaddend.
FIG. .[.1.]. .Iadd.21 .Iaddend.is a exploded view of a pulse
oximeter probe incorporating modular plastic housings.[.,.].
.Iadd.;.Iaddend.
FIG. .[.2.]. .Iadd.22 .Iaddend.is an exploded view of a disposable
bandage apparatus incorporating modular plastic receptacles.[.,.].
.Iadd.;.Iaddend.
FIG. .[.3.]. .Iadd.23 .Iaddend.is a view of the disposable bandage
apparatus with the probe engaged and in use on the appendage of a
patient.[.,.]. .Iadd.;.Iaddend.
FIG. .[.4.]. .Iadd.24 .Iaddend.is an exploded view of a reusable
finger attachment device incorporating modular plastic
receptacles.[.,.]. .Iadd.; .Iaddend.and
FIG. .[.5.]. .Iadd.25 .Iaddend.illustrates the reusable finger
attachment device, with the probe engaged, and in use on a human
appendage.
.[.DESCRIPTION OF THE MODULAR PULSE OXIMETER PROBE.].
.Iadd.DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
.Iaddend.
Reusable Pulse Oximeter Probe and Disposable Bandage Apparatuses
and Methods
Description of a Reusable Pulse Oximeter Sensor
The reusable pulse oximeter sensor constitutes a "Y" style pulse
oximeter probe shown in FIG. 1, Item F. The probe incorporates two
plastic housings shown as FIG. 1, Items G. The housings contain
apertures or radiation transparent windows L therein. One housing
contains the light-emitting diode of the probe, FIG. 1, Item H, and
other contains the photocell detector, FIG. 1, Item I. The emitter
and detectors are aligned with the apertures or windows L of the
housings in order to transmit and receive light through a human
appendage.
Seated within a recessed area of each housing, and attached
permanently thereto, is a "mushroom hook" adhesive-backed pad, FIG.
1, Item K. The purpose of these pads is to selectively engage the
"mushroom hook" pads, FIG. 1, Items J, attached permanently to the
plastic discs, FIG. 1, Items D, and to attach the reusable probe
assembly to the Disposable Bandage Apparatus. The reusable pulse
oximeter sensor is shown assembled as FIG. 2, Item A.
In one preferred embodiment of the reusable pulse oximeter sensor,
the light-emitting diode (FIG. 5, Item A) and photocell detector
(FIG. 5, Item B) of the probe assembly are housed in modular
receptacles (FIG. 5, Items C) having locking levers (FIG. 5, Items
D) for engaging the receptacles of the disposable bandage
apparatus, and locking them into place. In this embodiment, the
light-emitting diode (FIG. 6, Item A) and the photocell detector
(FIG. 6, Item B) are sandwiched between interlocking receptacle
halves, the bottom halves of which (FIG. 6, Items C) are made of a
radiation transparent material.
In another embodiment of the invention the light emitting diode and
photocell detector of the reusable pulse oximeter sensor are
enclosed in housings (FIG. 11, Items A) having a groove on the
inner diameter of the housings that is designed to matedly engage
rings (FIG. 11, Items B) located on the outer diameter of the
disposable bandage apparatus, thus securing and locking the sensor
housings to the bandage receptacles.
In another embodiment of the invention the light emitting diode and
photocell detector of the reusable pulse oximeter sensor are
enclosed in housings (FIG. 12, Items A) which are designed to enter
the bandage receptacles (FIG. 12, Items B) and to twist 90 degrees
thus locking the sensor housings to the bandage receptacles.
In yet another embodiment of the invention, the light emitting
diode and photocell detector of the reusable pulse oximeter sensor
are enclosed in housings (FIG. 13, Items A) having a threaded
flange (FIG. 13, Items B) that threadedly engages the bandage
receptacles, (FIG. 13, Items C) thus securing and locking the
sensor housings to the bandage receptacles.
In the one preferred embodiment of the Reusable Pulse Oximeter
Sensor, the light emitting diode (FIG. 14, Item A) and photocell
detector (FIG. 14, Item B) of the probe assembly are housed in
modular receptacles (FIG. 14, Items C) having locking levers, (FIG.
14, Items D) for engaging the receptacles (FIG. 15, Items A) of the
disposable bandage apparatus, and locking them into place.
In the another preferred embodiment of the Reusable Pulse Oximeter
Sensor, the light emitting diode (FIG. 17, Item A) and the
photocell detector (FIG. 17, Item B) are encased in modular
housings having a radiation transparent bottom (FIG. 17, Items C)
and having opaque housing tops (FIG. 17, Items D). These housing
tops and bottoms are ultrasonically welded together thus
encapsulating the light emitting diode and photocell detector of
the probe assembly. The housing tops incorporate indentations or
slots (FIG. 17, Items E) designed to matedly engage a protrusion on
the locking levers of the bandage receptacles thus snapping into
place and securing the probe housings within the bandage
receptacles.
According to one embodiment of the present invention,
intra-departmental or inter-institutional transport is greatly
facilitated by having a bandage device which will accept probes of
various manufacturers, as long as those probes contain housings
that will matedly engage the receptacles of the disposable bandage
apparatus.
Description of a Disposable Bandage Apparatus
The components of the apparatus include an adhesive-backed strip,
shown as FIG. 1, Item A, the strip A incorporating two oval
protrusions B centered thereon and shown as FIG. 1. The strip also
incorporates two apertures, centrally located within the oval
protrusions, each aperture C having a diameter sufficient in size
to accommodate the transmission and reception of light from a
light-emitting diode and photocell detector of a pulse oximeter
probe.
On top of the apertures C are seated two plastic discs, FIG. 1,
Item D, each having a concave base designed to conform to the
radius of a human digit, and an aperture of slightly larger
diameter than the apertures in the adhesive backed planar strip.
The plastic discs are affixed to the adhesive planar strip by means
of a permanent adhesive.
Seated in a recessed area on top of each plastic disc is a
"mushroom hook", adhesive backed pad shown as FIG. 1, Item J. The
purpose of the "mushroom hook" pads is to selectively engage the
"mushroom hook" pads attached to the probe, FIG. 1, Items K, and to
attach the probe to the disposable bandage apparatus. Sandwiched
between the two plastic discs and the planar adhesive strip are two
translucent silicone windows, FIG. 1, Item E. The windows are
designed to permit the passage of infrared light and yet prevent
contact between probe and patient, and consequently, contamination
of the reusable probe itself.
The above items constitute the disposable bandage apparatus
according to one embodiment of the invention, the apparatus being
shown assembled as FIG. 2, Item B.
In another embodiment of the invention, the disposable bandage
apparatus may be configured as in FIG. 4 of the drawings. FIG. 4 is
an exploded view of the apparatus in which the "mushroom hook" pads
of the bandage apparatus, FIG. 4, Items J, are bonded directly to
the adhesive planar strip, FIG. 4, Item A, for the selective
engagement of the "mushroom hook" pads of the probe, FIG. 4, Items
K, the pads being attached permanently to the housings of the
probe, FIG. 4, Items G.
In one preferred embodiment of the disposable bandage apparatus,
the bandage strip (FIG. 7, Item A) is sandwiched between
interlocking receptacle halves. The top halves of the receptacles
(FIG. 7, Items B) contain locking levers (FIG. 7, Items C) that are
pushed through slots cut in the bandage strip (FIG. 7, Items D) and
lockingly engage indentations (FIG. 7, Items E) in the bottom
halves of the receptacles (FIG. 7, Items F), thus sandwiching and
locking the bandage in between. The bandage strip contains two
apertures (FIG. 7, Items G) for the transmission and reception of
light from the light-emitting diode and photocell detector of the
pulse oximeter sensor which are encased in modular housings having
locking levers (FIG. 5, Items D) wherein the levers engage slots in
the receptacles (FIG. 7, Items H) thereby locking the housings into
place within the receptacles. In addition, the bottom halves of the
receptacles (FIG. 7, Items F) are of a radiation transparent
material, thus allowing the light-emitting diode and photocell
detector contained in the probe housings, when engaged in the
bandage receptacles, to transmit and receive light through the
apertures of the bandage strip and through the radiation
transparent material of the bottom halves of the receptacles, and
through the appendage of a patient. The complete reusable pulse
oximeter probe and bandage assembly is shown assembled and ready
for use on a human digit in FIG. 8.
In other embodiments of the disposable bandage apparatus, the
bandage may have mounted thereon receptacles having means of
matedly engaging the housings of the reusable pulse oximeter sensor
by way of "ring and groove" snap-on type connectors (FIG. 11, Items
B); "Twist and Lock" type connectors (FIG. 12, Items B); or
"threaded flange" type connectors (FIG. 13, Items C).
In one preferred embodiment of the Disposable Bandage Apparatus,
the bandage strip (FIG. 15, Item B) is sandwiched between
interlocking receptacle halves. The top halves of the receptacles
(FIG. 15, Items A) each contain 4 holes (FIG. 15, Items C) that are
designed to matingly engage locking tabs (FIG. 15, Items D) on the
bottom half of the receptacles (FIG. 15, Items E) that are pushed
through slots cut in the bandage strip (FIG. 15, Items F) thus
securing and locking the bandage in between.
The bandage strip contains two apertures or radiation transparent
windows (FIG. 15, Items G) allowing for the transmission and
reception of light from the light emitting diode and photocell
detector of the pulse oximeter sensor which are encased in modular
housings having locking levers (FIG. 14, Items D) wherein said
levers engage slots in the receptacles (FIG. 15, Items H) thereby
locking the housings into place within the receptacles. In
addition, the bottom halves of the receptacles (FIG. 15, Items E)
can be of a radiation transparent material, or may contain
apertures (FIG. 15, Items I) thus allowing the light emitting diode
and photocell detector contained in the probe housings, when
engaged in the bandage receptacles, to transmit and receive light
through the apertures of the bandage strip and through the
radiation transparent material, or apertures, of the bottom halves
of the receptacles, and through the appendage of a patient. The
disposable bandage apparatus may also incorporate a foam strip
(FIG. 15, Item J) in order to cushion a patient's appendage from
any discomfort caused by the bottom half of the bandage
receptacles. The complete Reusable Pulse Oximeter Sensor, engaged
in the disposable Bandage Apparatus, and ready for use on a human
appendage, is shown in FIG. 16.
In another preferred embodiment of the disposable bandage
apparatus, the bandage receptacles (FIG. 17, Items G) are secured
to the bandage (FIG. 17, Item K) by means of four protrusions or
"heat stakes" (FIG. 17, Items H) which are pushed through slots
(FIG. 17, Items J) on the bandage (FIG. 17, Item K) and are
ultrasonically welded on the other side, thus securing the
receptacles to the bandage. A radiation transparent window (FIG.
17, Item M) is then adhered to the underside of the bandage and the
radiation transparent windows and melted heat stakes are then
overlaid by a foam pad (FIG. 17, Item L) to aid in patient comfort.
This foam pad also incorporates two holes which are in alignment
with the two holes on the bandage itself, and when the foam pad is
overlaid on the underside of the bandage, the radiation transparent
windows are sandwiched in between.
The probe housings are designed to matedly engage the bandage
receptacles (FIG. 17, Items G) and are held in place within the
receptacles by means of protrusions (FIG. 17, Items F) on the
locking levers (FIG. 17, Items I) which snap into place when the
probe housings are pushed into the bandage receptacles. When the
probe housings are locked into place within the bandage receptacles
the light emitting diode and photocell detector are in alignment
with the holes in the bandage and the foam overlay, and the probe
is then able to transmit and receive light through the mated
housings and receptacles, through the holes contained in the
bandage and foam overlay, and through the appendage of a patient.
The complete assembled Reusable Pulse Oximeter Sensor engaged
within the Disposable Bandage Apparatus, as it would appear ready
for use on a patient, is shown in FIG. 18.
Other Fastening Means
As can be appreciated, there are many ways of fabricating the above
components of the invention. The above description describes
attachment of the reusable pulse oximeter sensor to the disposable
bandage apparatus by way of a "mushroom hook" type hook and loop
material and by the use of telephone type modular connectors and
receptacles. In addition to this means, a number of other methods
may be used including standard hook and loop material, "ring and
groove" type snap-on connectors, "push and twist" type Luerlock
connectors, and threaded flange type connectors. While these means
are fairly comprehensive, they should in no way be considered
exhaustive.
Method of Use
According to one method for use on an individual patient, the prove
is affixed in the following manner:
Firstly, the backing is removed from the adhesive strip of the
disposable bandage apparatus. One of the apertures of the apparatus
is visually positioned on the center of the nail bed of the
patient's appendage and one side of the adhesive strip and the oval
protrusions are adhered to the patient's digit. The rest of the
strip is then looped over the end of the patient's appendage, and
the plastic disc is aligned so as to exactly oppose the plastic
disc already attached to the other side of the digit. Once the
disposable bandage apparatus has been properly adhered to the
patient, the plastic housings of the probe assembly can be easily
snapped into place on opposing sides of the digit. The entire
assembled probe is shown as it would appear in use on a patient in
FIG. 3.
According to one method for use with the "ring and groove" type
snap-on connectors, "twist and lock", and "threaded flange"
connectors, the backing is firstly removed from the adhesive strip.
The strip is then folded in half where indicated on the bandage and
the bandage apparatus is adhered to either side of the human digit.
Once the bandage apparatus is in place the probe housings are
simply snapped, twisted or screwed into place.
According to one method for use with a patient, the modular probe
and bandage assembly, which is one preferred embodiment of the
invention, would be attached as follows:
Firstly, the backing is removed from the adhesive strip. The strip
is then folded where indicated on the bandage and the strip is then
adhered to opposing sides of the human digit. Once the bandage
apparatus is in place, the housings of the probe are pushed into
the receptacles and locked in place by means of the locking levers.
When the patient is moved between different service areas of a
hospital, the probes can be removed and the patient transported to
a new service area where that area's oximeter probes are pushed
into the receptacles for further oximeter readings.
As shown in FIG. 9, one embodiment of the invention is easily
adaptable to different manufacturers' oximeters being used in
different departments or institutions when the patient is to be
transported between the departments or institutions. As shown in
FIG. 9, at the admissions area AD, where the patient is admitted to
the hospital or facility, an oximeter bandage is initially applied.
Then the patient may go through another testing area or department
DI where various serological, pathological tests may be run. Then
the patient is shown as being transported to a radiology area such
as where X-ray and magnetic resonance images (MRI) scans are made.
Other departments may have the patient transported thereto such as
a surgery department DS and a recovery room RR and the patient's
room PR where, in each instance, a different manufacturer or
different oximeter probes may be attached where, according to the
invention, the receptacles on the bandages are able to receive and
retain housings on the emitter and detector elements of the
probe.
An example of the flexibility of the system of this invention is
illustrated in FIG. 10. In this pictorial embodiment, a magnetic
resonance image system or an MRI machine is shown as being
positioned in one room with the patient and having applicant's
disposable bandage apparatus attached to the finger of a patient.
In this case, the patient is in the MRI facility where the patient
is just having MRI work done. The probe housings are shown attached
at the ends of fiberoptic cable connected to a connector which has
the light-emitting diode and the light detector incorporated
therein with a connector or plug for plugging into a pulse oximeter
PO. The light-emitting and light-receiving ends of the fiberoptic
cable are directed or oriented in the modular housings to emit IR
light into the finger and receive IR light transmitted through the
finger. It will be noted that since in the MRI application no
ferrous materials are allowed, the LED's are placed in a room many
feet away (up to fifty or more feet away) and (the oximeter device
is in optical communication with the applicant's bandage apparatus.
Thus, in situations where non-ferrous materials are required, the
probe has non-ferrous housings and materials designed to matedly
engage with the receptacles of applicant's disposable bandage
apparatus. The housings of the probe are in fiberoptic
communication with the LED's which would be at the other end of the
probe near the pulse oximeter.
As shown above, in case of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)
situations where the presence of any metal in the environment can
effect the MRI readings, the probe and emitter elements are
situated remotely from the MRI machine and fiberoptic cable conveys
light to and from the patient's finger. In this case, the oximeter
probe housings are the termination ends of the fiberoptic cable and
the modular housings are therefore able to be inserted into the
bandage receptacles and the oximeter readings taken in this fashion
from a remote area.
In some embodiments of the invention, when the probe is no longer
required on the patient, the housings of the reusable probe are
simply unsnapped from the disposable bandage apparatus, the bandage
apparatus is thrown away, and the probe can then be reused on a new
patient in conjunction with a new bandage apparatus.
Advantages of Some Embodiments
Current reusable pulse oximeter probes are either "clam shell" type
clamping devices which can restrict circuit or "Y" type probes
which are taped directly to the patient. Both types also come in
direct contact with the patient's skin and bodily fluids and need
sterilization after use. Because of the fact that these devices
incorporate many surfaces and at times, porous materials, proper
sterilization is very difficult. With some embodiments of the
present invention there is no contact between the reusable probe
and the skin or bodily fluids of the patient.
Disposable probes are very costly because of the fact that the
cable, connectors and photodiodes are all disposed of after use.
Some embodiments of the present invention accomplishe the same
goals as a disposable probe from a cleanliness standpoint, but
since only the attachment apparatus is discarded after use, the
cost is much less to a healthcare institution.
One embodiment of the present invention, with the concave shape of
the plastic discs of the bandage apparatus, when backed by the
adhesive strip, is extremely effective in preventing the entrance
of extraneous light from the sides of the patient's digit. Current
probes on the market, whether disposable or reusable, because of
the nature of their shape and affixation means, have problems in
dealing with extraneous light reception.
One embodiment of the present invention utilizes an easy snap-on,
snap-off, or modular connector attachment means for attaching the
probe to the disposable bandage apparatus. Probe-shield type
devices available in the past not only required the modification of
the original manufacturer's probe, but required the difficult
procedure of inserting a flexible laminated probe into a sheath for
each patient.
Probe-shield devices, because of the lamination process involved,
raised some concern over the transmission and reception of infrared
light through the laminating material. One embodiment of the
present invention uses a silicone window for the isolation of the
probe from the patient. Infrared light transmission and reception
is not affected by passage through translucent silicone.
In these days of environmental consciousness, the annual waste
generated from tens of millions of disposable probes is enormous.
Some embodiments of the present invention, if used in considerable
numbers, would greatly reduce the amount of environmental waste
generated by disposable pulse oximeter probes.
In some embodiments, intra-departmental or inter-institutional
transport is greatly facilitated by having a bandage device which
will accept probes of various manufacturers, as long as those
probes contain housings that will matedly engage the receptacles of
the disposable bandage apparatus.
Reusable Pulse Oximeter Probe with Disposable Liner
Description of a Reusable Pulse Oximeter Probe
According to one embodiment, the Reusable Pulse Oximeter Sensor
constitutes a finger clip style pulse oximeter probe shown as FIG.
19, Item A. The probe incorporates two plastic housing arms, each
housing arm containing apertures therein, said apertures shown as
FIG. 19, Items C. One housing (HAE) contains the light emitting
diode of the probe, and the other (HAD) contains the photocell
detector. The emitter and detectors are aligned with the apertures
of said housings in order to transmit and receive light through a
human appendage. The housings are held together by a pin
incorporating a spring, FIG. 19, item B, which inclines the two
housings toward each other and clamps the apparatus on a human
digit.
Within each housing is a "T" shaped channel, FIG. 19, item D, with
a locking notch at the entrance thereof, said notch shown as FIG.
19, items E. The purpose of the channel and notch is to slidably
engage the disposable liner of the finger clip and to lock it into
its appropriate position within the finger clip. The probe is
attached to a pulse oximeter through a connector, FIG. 19, item K.
The above description constitutes the Reusable Pulse Oximeter Probe
component of the invention.
Description of a Disposable Liner or Shield
According to one embodiment, the components of the disposable liner
or shield include an initially planar foam strip shown as FIG. 19,
item F, incorporating two apertures, centrally located within the
strip, and shown as FIG. 19, Items I. Each aperture has a diameter
sufficient in size to accommodate the transmission and reception of
light from a light emitting diode and photocell detector of the
reusable pulse oximeter probe. Each aperture has a silicone window,
or window of another material, which will allow for the
transmission and reception of infrared light therethrough.
On either end of the foam strip there is a thin plastic backing,
FIG. 19, items G, having a "T" shaped protrusion mounted in the
lateral plane thereof and shown as FIG. 19, item H. The purpose of
the "T" shaped protrusion is to slidably engage the "T" shaped
channel of the reusable sensor, FIG. 19, item D, and to lock into
place by means of the locking levers, FIG. 19, items J, a
releasable detent.
In one preferred embodiment of the invention, there are two
disposable foam liners, with finger-shaped indentations therein,
said indentations varying in size depending on the size of the
patient's digit on which they are intended to be used. In this
embodiment, the foam liners, FIG. 20, items F, have a plastic
backing, FIG. 20, items G. The plastic backings have "T" shaped
protrusions mounted thereon, FIG. 20, items H, which slidably
engage the "T" shaped channel of the finger clip, FIG. 20, items D,
the locking levers, FIG. 20, items J, engaging the locking notches
of the finger clip, FIG. 20, items E, and securing the foam into
place.
Other Fastening Means
As can be appreciated there are many ways of attaching the
Disposable Liner or Shield to the Reusable Pulse Oximeter Probe.
The above description describes attachment of the Disposable Liner
to the Reusable Pulse Oximeter Probe by way of a modular type
sliding connector. In addition to this means a number of other
methods may be used including, hook and loop material, snap-on
connectors, and removable adhesive.
.[.DESCRIPTION OF THE MODULAR PULSE OXIMETER PROBE.].
.Iadd.Universal Modular Pulse Oximeter Probe for Use with Reusable
and Disposable Patient Attachment Devices
Description of a Modular Pulse Oximeter Probe .Iaddend.
.[.The.]. .Iadd.According to one embodiment, the .Iaddend.Modular
Pulse Oximeter Probe consists of a "Y" type probe assembly in which
the Light Emitting Diode (FIG. .[.1.]. .Iadd.21.Iaddend., Item A)
and the Photocell Detector (FIG. .[.1.]. .Iadd.21.Iaddend., Item B)
are incorporated into modular plastic housings. Said housings have
an aperture or radiation transparent window incorporated therein so
that said emitter and detector may be in communication with each
other when said windows are in alignment with each other. In this
preferred embodiment the modular housings consist of two half
shells which encapsulate each the emitter and detector, one side of
said shells (FIG. .[.1.]. .Iadd.21.Iaddend., Items C) being
fabricated of an opaque plastic material and the other half of said
shells (FIG. .[.1.]. .Iadd.21.Iaddend., Items D) being fabricated
of a radiation transparent plastic material. The housings are
designed in order to accommodate at least one of a possible
multiplicity of manufacturers' light emitting diodes and photocell
detectors. The housings may also contain an indentation (FIG.
.[.1.]. .Iadd.21.Iaddend., Items E) into which a locking lever of
the receptacles of the disposable bandage apparatus or reusable
finger attachment device may lodge in order to secure the probe
housings to the receptacles of the preferred attachment device. The
cable (FIG. .[.1.]. .Iadd.21.Iaddend., Item F) and the connector
(FIG. .[.1.]. .Iadd.21.Iaddend., Item G) of the probe may also be
interchanged in order to be compatible with a multiplicity of
different manufacturers' oximeters.
.[.DESCRIPTION OF THE DISPOSABLE BANDAGE APPARATUS.].
.Iadd.Description of a Disposable Bandage Apparatus.Iaddend.
.[.The.]. .Iadd.According to one embodiment, the
.Iaddend.disposable bandage apparatus consists of at least one
adhesive bandage strip (FIG. .[.2.]. .Iadd.22.Iaddend., Item A)
wherein at least two receptacles (FIG. .[.2.]. .Iadd.22.Iaddend.,
Items B) are mounted on said strip. Said receptacles are mounted
over apertures in the strip (FIG. .[.2.]. .Iadd.22.Iaddend., Items
C) so that these apertures may diametrically oppose each other when
the bandage strip is wrapped over the end of a patient's appendage.
The Receptacles of the Disposable Bandage Apparatus may also
incorporate locking levers (FIG. .[.2.]. .Iadd.22.Iaddend., Items
D) that are intended to engage the indentations in the housings of
the probe (FIG. .[.1.]. .Iadd.21.Iaddend., Items E) thus securing
the probe housings within the bandage receptacles. The apparatus
may also contain a radiation transparent window (FIG. .[.2.].
.Iadd.22.Iaddend., Items E) for isolation of the probe housings
from the patient and may also incorporate an additional foam strip
(FIG. .[.2.]. .Iadd.22.Iaddend., Item F) with apertures (FIG.
.[.2.]. .Iadd.22.Iaddend., Items G) for cushioning the patient's
appendage from the radiation transparent windows. FIG. .[.3.].
.Iadd.23 .Iaddend.illustrates the disposable bandage apparatus with
an engaged probe as it would appear in use on a human
appendage.
.[.DESCRIPTION OF THE REUSABLE FINGER ATTACHMENT DEVICE.].
.Iadd.Description of a Reusable Finger Attachment
Device.Iaddend.
.[.The.]. .Iadd.One .Iaddend.preferred embodiment of the Reusable
Finger Attachment Device comprises a flexible plastic or foam strip
(FIG. .[.4.]. .Iadd.24.Iaddend., Item A) with two receptacles (FIG.
.[.4.]. .Iadd.24.Iaddend., Items B) mounted thereon. Said
receptacles are mounted over apertures in the strip (FIG. .[.4.].
.Iadd.24.Iaddend., Items C) so that these apertures may
diametrically oppose each other when the bandage strip is wrapped
over the end of a patient's appendage. The strip also incorporates
two perforated tabs (FIG. .[.4.]. .Iadd.24.Iaddend., Items D) and
two additional tabs with molded knobs (FIG. .[.4.].
.Iadd.24.Iaddend., Items E) so that when the strip is looped over a
human digit, the tabs with the perforations overlay the tabs with
the knobs and these, when pressed together, can adjustably and
removably interlock with each other for securing the device to a
human digit. The Receptacles of the Reusable Finger Attachment
Device may also incorporate locking levers (FIG. .[.4.].
.Iadd.24.Iaddend., Items F) that are intended to engage the
indentations in the housings of the probe (FIG. .[.1.].
.Iadd.21.Iaddend., Items E) thus securing the probe housings within
the bandage receptacles. FIG. .[.5.]. .Iadd.25 .Iaddend.illustrates
the device as it would appear in use on a patient with the probe
housings engaged in the Reusable Finger Attachment Device.
Other Fastening Means
As can be appreciated there are many means of fabricating
.[.either.]. the Disposable Bandage Apparatus and .Iadd.the
.Iaddend.Reusable Finger Attachment Device using modular
receptacles into which a universal modular probe housing could be
lockingly engaged. While these devices may offer the most efficient
method fabrication and/or user friendliness, they are by no means
exhaustive.
Method of Use
Whether using the Disposable Bandage Apparatus or the Reusable
Finger Attachment Device, the methods of use are essentially the
same. With either apparatus, the end of the human appendage is
wrapped by the device and, in the case of the Disposable Bandage
Apparatus, the adhesive strip simply sticks to the skin of the
patient. With the Reusable Finger Attachment Device, the tabs
containing the perforations and knobs are simply overlaid and
pushed together thus securing the device to the digit. With either
device the probe housings are pushed into the receptacles of the
device and are locked into place by the locking levers that engage
the indentations in the probe housings. When the monitoring of the
patient is complete, the locking levers of the receptacles of
either device are lifted in order to release the probe housings and
the probe is removed from the device. In the event that a
Disposable Bandage Apparatus is in use, it is then thrown away
after the probe has been removed. When a Reusable Finger Attachment
Device is in use, it may be removed, washed, and reused on another
patient.
.[.ADVANTAGES OF THE PRESENT INVENTION.].
.Iadd.Advantages of Some Embodiments.Iaddend.
.[.1..]. The standardization of probes within a hospital whereby a
multiplicity of manufacturers' oximeters could utilize probes
having housings of the same size for engaging either reusable or
disposable attachment devices is very favorable.
.[.2..]. Finger attachment devices on the market today are hard
wired to the probes, and when breakage occurs on the finger clip,
the entire probe must be repaired or thrown away. With .Iadd.some
embodiments of .Iaddend.the present invention, when breakage occurs
in either the finger attachment device or the probe itself, only
the broken component has to be replaced.
.[.3..]. A big problem exists with maintaining the cleanliness of
reusable finger clips because the electronics are not removable
from the finger clip and the device cannot be immersed or cleaned.
With .Iadd.some embodiments of .Iaddend.the present invention, the
Reusable Finger Attachment Device can be removed from the probe and
cleaned or sterilized.
While the invention has been described in relation to preferred
embodiments of the invention, it will be appreciated that other
embodiments, adaptations and modifications of the invention will be
apparent to those skilled in the art.
* * * * *