An Integrated System for Fetal Scalp Visualization, Blood Collection and Analysis

Area of Science:

• Obstetrics and Gynecology
• Fetal Monitoring
• Medical Device Innovation

Background:

• Rising caesarean section rates globally necessitate improved methods for fetal well-being assessment.
• Current fetal scalp blood lactate analysis involves separate, complex, and costly procedures.
• Expertise is often required for existing visualization, sampling, and testing methods.

Purpose of the Study:

• To introduce a novel, integrated device for fetal scalp blood lactate measurement.
• To streamline the process of assessing fetal distress at the bedside.
• To provide an easy-to-use and affordable alternative for obstetric care.

Main Methods:

• Initial device design and 3-D printing for prototyping.
• Testing on a mannequin followed by ethical approval.
• Clinical trials on patients in active labor with singleton, cephalic fetuses without distress.

Main Results:

• The study included 9 patients (5 primigravida, 4 multigravida).
• Parity and meconium-stained liquor did not affect the ease of instrumentation or visualization.
• The average blood sample collection time was 184.11 seconds (±33.04).

Conclusions:

• The Neeraj-Bhaskar (NB) scope offers improved visualization of the fetal scalp.
• The device facilitates bedside blood collection and analysis for fetal lactate levels.
• The NB scope is a user-friendly, cost-effective tool to help avoid unnecessary caesarean sections in cases of fetal distress.