The Development of a Forceps-Adaptable Pressure Device for Instrumental Delivery: A Proof-of-Concept Study for...

Area of Science:

• Biomedical Engineering
• Obstetrics
• Medical Device Development

Background:

• Quantifying forceps pressure on the fetal head is crucial for improving maternal and neonatal outcomes.
• Current clinical tools lack the ability to measure direct contact pressure between forceps and the fetal head.
• There is a need for innovative devices to assess fetal head pressure during obstetric procedures.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and validate a novel device for measuring forceps pressure on the fetal head.
• To enable real-time, objective feedback during forceps-assisted deliveries.
• To enhance the safety and efficacy of operative vaginal births.

Main Methods:

• Fluid pressure transducers were integrated into obstetric forceps using fluid-filled tubing (PVC and PU) and silicone socks.
• Different tubing materials and fluids (air, water) were tested for accuracy and drift.
• An electronic board collected and transmitted pressure data via Bluetooth for real-time analysis on a simulated benchtop model.

Main Results:

• Air-filled tubing showed significant drift and low accuracy.
• Water-filled polyurethane tubing reduced drift but remained suboptimal.
• Water-filled polyvinyl chloride (PVC) tubing with silicone socks demonstrated minimal drift and high correlation with applied forces, indicating optimal performance.

Conclusions:

• The developed device is the first to measure forceps pressure on the fetal head in real time.
• It provides objective feedback for obstetric training and clinical practice, potentially improving forceps delivery safety.
• Future validation through mannequin and in vivo studies is planned to enhance obstetric care and reduce complications.