On-demand ultrasound imaging for maternal-fetal monitors

Abstract

A maternal fetal monitor includes a display, a processing device, and a memory device. The memory device includes instructions executable by the processing device to display a fetal heart contraction graph of a maternal patient and a fetus of the maternal patient. Additionally, the instructions are executable by the processing device to display an ultrasound image in response to a request based on a plurality of ultrasound signals generated and detected by an ultrasound imaging probe in communication with the maternal fetal monitor.

Description

Background Technology

[0001] This disclosure relates in general to fetal monitors for pregnant women, and more specifically to on-demand ultrasound imaging of fetal monitors for pregnant women.

[0002] Prenatal fetal monitors can continuously monitor fetal heart rate and uterine activity during the prenatal, intrapartum, and postpartum periods. To monitor fetal heart rate, prenatal fetal monitors use non-invasive and invasive probes, such as Doppler ultrasound transducers, electrocardiogram (ECG) sensors, and fetal scalp electrodes. Summary of the Invention

[0003] A maternal fetal monitor includes a display, a processing device, and a memory device. The memory device includes instructions executable by the processing device to display fetal heart rate and uterine contraction patterns of the pregnant woman and her fetus based on signals from non-invasive and invasive probes. Additionally, the instructions are executable by the processing device to display ultrasound images based on multiple ultrasound signals generated and detected by ultrasound imaging probes communicating with the maternal fetal monitor, in response to a request.

[0004] In one embodiment, the ultrasound imaging probe includes a combined Doppler ultrasound transducer and an imager.

[0005] In one implementation, the instructions can be executed by a processor to generate a fetal heart rate and uterine contraction map.

[0006] In one implementation, the instructions can be executed by a processor to generate ultrasound images.

[0007] In one implementation, the user interface is configured to provide three-dimensional (3D) ultrasound images in response to selections on a maternal fetal monitor.

[0008] In one implementation, instructions can be executed by a processor to generate a 3D ultrasound image of the abdomen of a pregnant patient, the image including visual elements that indicate the location of one or more Doppler ultrasound transducers for detecting fetal heart rate.

[0009] In one implementation, the instructions can be executed by a processor to present a user interface. The user interface is configured to display a heatmap representing uterine activity on a display in response to a selection on the user interface, the heatmap being overlaid on a 3D image.

[0010] In one implementation, the maternal fetal monitor provides power to the ultrasound imaging probe via an mUSB port.

[0011] In one implementation, each mUSB port in a subset of the mUSB ports is configured to connect to a device that generates one or more elements of the fetal heart rate and uterine contraction map.

[0012] In one implementation, the maternal fetal monitor sends an ultrasound signal to the ultrasound imaging probe in response to a selection on the maternal fetal monitor to generate an ultrasound image.

[0013] In one implementation, the instructions can be executed by a processor to display multiple fetal heart rate and uterine contraction graphs for multiple fetuses.

[0014] In one embodiment, the maternal fetal monitor is configured to switch views on the display between fetal heart rate and uterine contraction graphs and ultrasound images in response to signals from an ultrasound imaging probe.

[0015] In one implementation, instructions can be executed by a processor to present a customizable on-screen keyboard for interacting with ultrasound images.

[0016] In one implementation, the instructions can be executed by a processor to receive ultrasound images from an ultrasound imaging probe.

[0017] A system includes an ultrasound imaging hub, an ultrasound imaging probe, and a maternal-fetal monitor. The ultrasound imaging hub communicates with both the ultrasound imaging probe and the maternal-fetal monitor. Additionally, the ultrasound imaging hub provides power to the ultrasound imaging probe. Furthermore, the maternal-fetal monitor is configured to display fetal heart rate and uterine contraction patterns of the pregnant woman and her fetus, and to display ultrasound images based on multiple ultrasound signals generated by the ultrasound imaging probe in response to a request.

[0018] In one embodiment, the ultrasound imaging probe includes a combined Doppler ultrasound transducer and an imager.

[0019] In one implementation, the maternal fetal monitor sends an ultrasound signal to the ultrasound imaging probe in response to a selection on the display to generate an ultrasound image.

[0020] In one implementation, the ultrasound imaging probe is configured to generate ultrasound images.

[0021] A medical device includes a combined Doppler ultrasound transducer and an imager. The combined Doppler ultrasound transducer and imager includes a first piezoelectric crystal layer configured to generate a first ultrasound signal at a first frequency and detect a first reflected signal of the first ultrasound signal. The first reflected signal represents one or more fetal heart rate and uterine contraction measurements of the fetus of a pregnant woman. Furthermore, the combined Doppler ultrasound transducer and imager includes a second piezoelectric crystal layer configured to generate a second ultrasound signal at a second frequency and detect a second reflected signal of the second ultrasound signal. The second reflected signal represents an ultrasound image of the fetus and the pregnant woman. Additionally, the combined Doppler ultrasound transducer and imager includes a button configured to, when selected, generate the second ultrasound signal and send a signal corresponding to the second reflected signal, representing the ultrasound image, to a fetal monitor including a display.

[0022] In one embodiment, the combined Doppler ultrasound transducer and imager are configured to calculate a fetal heart rate and uterine contraction measurement based on a first reflected signal, calculate an ultrasound image based on a second reflected signal, transmit the fetal heart rate and uterine contraction measurement to a maternal fetal monitor, and transmit the ultrasound image to the maternal fetal monitor. Attached Figure Description

[0023] This disclosure is described with reference to the following figures.

[0024] Figure 1A This is a diagram of an on-demand ultrasound imaging system using a fetal monitor for pregnant women, according to one embodiment of this disclosure.

[0025] Figure 1B This is a diagram of an on-demand ultrasound imaging system using a fetal monitor for pregnant women, according to one embodiment of this disclosure.

[0026] Figure 2A This is a diagram of an on-demand ultrasound imaging system using a fetal monitor for pregnant women, according to one embodiment of this disclosure.

[0027] Figure 2B This is a diagram of an on-demand ultrasound imaging system using a fetal monitor for pregnant women, according to one embodiment of this disclosure.

[0028] Figure 3A This is a side view of a fetal monitor for on-demand ultrasound imaging according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0029] Figure 3B This is a side view of a fetal monitor for on-demand ultrasound imaging according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0030] Figure 3CThis is a side view of a fetal monitor for on-demand ultrasound imaging according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0031] Figure 3D This is a side view of a fetal monitor for on-demand ultrasound imaging and an external keyboard according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0032] Figure 3E This is a side view of a fetal monitor for on-demand ultrasound imaging according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0033] Figure 3F This is a side view of a fetal monitor for on-demand ultrasound imaging according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0034] Figure 4 This is an exemplary fetal monitor for pregnant women with an ultrasound imaging manager according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. Detailed Implementation

[0035] In this description, certain terms are used for the purpose of brevity, clarity, and ease of understanding. No unnecessary limitations should be inferred from these terms beyond the requirements of the prior art, as they are used for descriptive purposes only and are intended to be understood in a broad sense.

[0036] As used herein, unless otherwise limited or restricted, discussions of a particular orientation are provided by way of example only for a particular embodiment or related illustration. For example, discussions of “top,” “bottom,” “front,” “back,” “left,” “right,” “horizontal,” “vertical,” and “longitudinal” features and / or relative movements (e.g., “upward” and “downward” movement) are generally intended only to describe the orientation of such features relative to a particular example or illustrative frame of reference. Accordingly, for example, in some arrangements or embodiments, a “top” feature may sometimes be positioned below a “bottom” feature (etc.). Additionally or alternatively, embodiments can be arranged in different orientations such that the “top” and “bottom” features are arranged horizontally relative to each other, for example, in a “left-to-right” orientation.

[0037] The terms “comprising,” “including,” or “having,” as used herein, and variations thereof, are intended to cover the elements listed thereafter and their equivalents, as well as any additional elements. An embodiment described as “comprising,” “including,” or “having” certain elements is also considered to be “substantially composed of those certain elements” and “composed of those certain elements.”

[0038] As previously mentioned, clinicians or other healthcare professionals can use maternal fetal monitors to continuously monitor fetal heart rate and uterine activity during the prenatal and intrapartum periods of pregnancy. Prenatal refers to the period of pregnancy leading up to delivery. Intrapartum refers to the time of labor, beginning with the onset of labor. To determine fetal heart rate, clinicians can use Doppler ultrasound transducers, fetal scalp electrodes (FSE), and / or electrodes capable of acquiring electrocardiographic signals, as in an ECG. To determine uterine activity, clinicians can use a labor force meter (Toco), an intrauterine pressure catheter (IUPC), and / or electrodes that acquire electrical activity in the abdominal muscles (electromyography, EMG). These devices generate a fetal heart rate and uterine contraction map (CTG) that can be displayed on the maternal fetal monitor—a trajectory of fetal heart rate and uterine contraction strength over time. The CTG trajectory provides clinicians with useful information about fetal health and the progress of labor.

[0039] According to guidelines from the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) and the UK National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE), in cases of questionable fetal heart rate, healthcare professionals may perform maternal repositioning, additional ultrasound imaging assessments to reassess fetal health, and other actions. Ultrasound imaging is also helpful when clinicians find it difficult to locate the fetus, particularly during multiple pregnancies or when the patient has a high body mass index (BMI). However, ultrasound imaging probes may not be readily available. Therefore, performing ultrasound imaging may involve transporting the patient to another room equipped with an ultrasound machine, or moving a portable ultrasound machine, such as to the delivery room, to which the ultrasound imaging probe can be attached to generate images. This may lead to delays in patient care or intervention. However, when the health of the fetus and / or the mother may be at risk, any delay can have disastrous consequences for the fetus and / or the pregnant patient.

[0040] Therefore, the inventors have focused on developing a fetal monitor for pregnant women that adds ultrasound imaging capabilities. According to some embodiments of this disclosure, the fetal monitor has a connector for an ultrasound imaging probe. Additionally, the fetal monitor can receive signals from the ultrasound imaging probe, generate an ultrasound image based on the received signals, and display the generated ultrasound image. Alternatively, the fetal monitor 102A can be connected to an ultrasound imaging probe with an active cable. In such an embodiment, the ultrasound imaging probe can acquire ultrasound signals, process these signals to generate an ultrasound image, and send the generated image to the fetal monitor, which can display the ultrasound image as described below. Furthermore, the fetal monitor may include a user-selectable mode to display images from an ultrasound scan performed via the ultrasound imaging probe. Therefore, in response to selection, the fetal monitor can signal the ultrasound imaging probe to perform an ultrasound scan and display the corresponding ultrasound image. According to some embodiments of this disclosure, the ultrasound image display can be performed in full-screen mode or on a portion of the screen, with the remaining portion of the screen displaying other clinical data, such as CTG data. Additionally, these techniques can be performed on a maternal fetal monitor provided that any remaining Doppler ultrasound transducers, Toco, IUPC, FSE, or other probes remain in place.

[0041] According to one embodiment of this disclosure, the ultrasound imaging probe may be a conventional ultrasound imaging probe having a piezoelectric crystal layer (or an array of piezoelectric crystals) that generates (simulates) an ultrasound signal, detects the reflection of the generated signal, and transmits data representing the reflected signal to a fetal monitor that generates an ultrasound image as described above. Alternatively, the ultrasound imaging probe may include a combined Doppler ultrasound transducer and imager, which may include components of a conventional fetal monitor ultrasound transducer probe that performs FHR detection based on the Doppler frequency shift principle. Additionally, the combined Doppler ultrasound transducer and imager may include components for generating an ultrasound image. Therefore, the combined Doppler ultrasound transducer and imager can be used to monitor fetal heart rate and / or generate ultrasound images.

[0042] Advantageously, integrating ultrasound imaging capabilities with a maternal fetal monitor helps clinicians locate the fetus relatively quickly and accurately to aid in the placement of a Doppler ultrasound transducer for more accurate detection. This fetal positioning can be beneficial in situations where the patient's BMI may interfere with identifying fetal location in multiple pregnancies, and in other scenarios where detection of one or more fetuses may be impeded. Furthermore, such implementations reduce the amount of time involved in determining fetal health by eliminating the typical time spent transporting the patient to the ultrasound machine (potentially in another ward), transporting the ultrasound imaging machine to the patient, or switching from a maternal fetal monitor to a completely different machine with an ultrasound imaging probe and display. In these ways, embodiments of this disclosure can improve patient outcomes by enabling clinicians to make more informed and timely decisions during the prenatal and intrapartum phases of pregnancy. Additionally, using the same maternal fetal monitor for fetal heart rate monitoring and ultrasound imaging reduces workflow by minimizing the number of tasks involved, such as transporting the ultrasound imaging machine and cleaning and sterilizing the display used for the ultrasound imaging machine. In these ways, such implementations can further reduce risks to patient health and costs for both healthcare providers and patients.

[0043] Figure 1A This is a diagram of a system 100A for on-demand ultrasound imaging using a maternal fetal monitor 102A, according to one embodiment of this disclosure. System 100A includes a maternal fetal monitor 102A (having a display 104 and a port 106), an ultrasound imaging probe 108A, and a Doppler ultrasound transducer 110A. The display 104 may be an output device or an input / output device, such as a touchscreen. Port 106 may be a medical universal serial bus (mUSB) port, which can be configured to connect to and potentially power multiple probes and / or sensors (such as Toco, IUPC, FSE, EMG, ultrasound imaging probe 108A, and Doppler ultrasound transducer 110A). The maternal fetal monitor 102A can process signals from these probes and / or sensors to calculate CTG measurements, generate ultrasound images, etc. Therefore, the maternal fetal monitor 102A can display the calculated measurements and / or generated ultrasound images on the display 104. Alternatively, a probe and / or sensor with an active cable can calculate the measurement results and / or generate ultrasound images, and provide the calculated measurement results and / or generated images to the maternal fetal monitor 102A for display on the display 104.

[0044] An ultrasound imaging probe 108A may be an electrically powered device that generates multiple ultrasound signals and detects the reflection of these signals in a study area (e.g., the uterus of a pregnant woman). In some embodiments of this disclosure, the ultrasound imaging probe 108A may be of a variety of types, such as linear, convex, intracavitary, phased array, three-dimensional, four-dimensional, etc. The ultrasound imaging probe 108A may be connected to one of the ports 106 via a cable 112. The cable may be configured to exchange communication information between the ultrasound imaging probe 108A and the fetal monitor 102A. Thus, the ultrasound imaging probe 108A may send an analog representation of the signals detected by the ultrasound imaging probe 108A to the fetal monitor 102A. Thus, the fetal monitor 102A may convert the analog signals into digital signals representing an image and display the image. Alternatively, the ultrasound imaging probe 108A may have an active cable. Having an active cable means that the ultrasound imaging probe 108A may be configured to process analog signals and generate ultrasound images. In such implementations, the ultrasound imaging probe 108A can transmit digital values ​​of the fetal heart rate and / or ultrasound images to the maternal fetal monitor 102A.

[0045] The Doppler ultrasound transducer 110A can be an electrically powered device with a piezoelectric crystal layer or array that generates ultrasound signals and detects the reflection of these signals in the study area, and measures physiological information such as fetal heart rate based on the Doppler frequency shift in these reflected ultrasound signals. Furthermore, the Doppler ultrasound transducer 110A can provide this physiological information to a maternal-fetal monitor 102A, which can display this physiological information in a CTG (Central Transducer Group).

[0046] According to some embodiments of this disclosure, the maternal fetal monitor 102A can switch between a continuous fetal monitoring mode (using a Doppler ultrasound transducer 110A) and an ultrasound imaging mode (using an ultrasound imaging probe 108A). For example, a clinician can use the Doppler ultrasound transducer 110A to determine the fetal heart rate. Therefore, the maternal fetal monitor 102A can display a CTG on a display 104, which shows the fetal heart rate over time based on the signal detected by the Doppler ultrasound transducer 110A. However, the fetal heart rate displayed on the display 104 may indicate, for example, conditions for ultrasound imaging of the fetus according to ACOG guidelines. Therefore, a clinician can switch the mode of the maternal fetal monitor 102A to imaging mode. According to one embodiment, switching to imaging mode may involve a touch selection on the display 104. In such an embodiment, the maternal fetal monitor 102A can signal the ultrasound imaging probe 108A to perform an ultrasound imaging scan and provide the detected signal or (in the case of an active cable) an ultrasound image. Alternatively, the ultrasound imaging probe 108A may include a button that, in response to selecting to perform an ultrasound imaging scan, sends a request to the fetal monitor 102A to switch to ultrasound imaging mode, and sends a signal representing an ultrasound image or the ultrasound image itself to the fetal monitor 102A. Thus, the fetal monitor 102A can display the corresponding ultrasound image on the display 104. According to some embodiments of this disclosure, the fetal monitor can display ultrasound images on the display 104 individually (e.g., in full-screen mode) or in combination with a CTG (e.g., in split-screen mode).

[0047] Alternatively, the fetal monitor 102A can generate ultrasound images. In such an embodiment, the ultrasound imaging probe 108A can provide the fetal monitor 102A with data representing reflected ultrasound signals, which the fetal monitor can process to generate ultrasound images. Furthermore, the ultrasound imaging probe 108A can perform multiple ultrasound imaging scans, thereby providing the ability to display ultrasound images in a cinematic manner in real time. Additionally, as described above, the ultrasound imaging probe 108A can provide signals that the fetal monitor 102A processes to generate multiple ultrasound images. Alternatively, for an ultrasound imaging probe with an active cable, the ultrasound imaging probe 108A can generate multiple ultrasound images and provide the generated ultrasound images for display by the fetal monitor 102A.

[0048] Figure 1BThis is a figure of a system 100B for on-demand ultrasound imaging using a maternal fetal monitor 102B, according to one embodiment of this disclosure. System 100B includes a maternal fetal monitor 102B (having a display 104 and a port 106), an ultrasound imaging probe 108B, and an ultrasound imaging hub 110B. The maternal fetal monitor 102B and the ultrasound imaging probe 108B can be similar to those in the reference [reference]. Figure 1A The description includes a maternal fetal monitor 102A and an ultrasound imaging probe 108A. However, in this example, the maternal fetal monitor 102B may not supply power to the ultrasound imaging probe 108B via an mUSB port. Instead, the ultrasound imaging probe 108B may be connected to an ultrasound imaging hub 110B, which may supply power to the ultrasound imaging probe 108B via one or more hub ports 114. While the ultrasound imaging hub 110B is shown with one port 114, according to some embodiments, the ultrasound imaging hub 110B may include multiple ports 114, and the number of ports may vary. Furthermore, the ports 114 may be configured for connectors, mUSB connectors, adapters, etc., for the ultrasound imaging probe 108B. Having multiple hub ports 114 may be useful for powering additional devices, i.e., additional ultrasound imaging probes, Toco, IUPC, etc. In this example, the ultrasound imaging hub 110B includes a power button 116 that, when selected, powers the ultrasound imaging hub 110B (and connected devices). However, some embodiments may omit the power button 116. Additionally, the ultrasound imaging hub 110B can be connected to a maternal-fetal monitor 102B via port 106. This allows the ultrasound imaging hub 110B to exchange communication information between the ultrasound imaging probe 108B and the maternal-fetal monitor 102B. For example, the maternal-fetal monitor 102B can receive a request to generate an ultrasound image via a touchscreen display. In response, the maternal-fetal monitor 102B can provide a request to the ultrasound imaging hub 110B, which in turn can provide a request to the ultrasound imaging probe 108B. Furthermore, the ultrasound imaging probe 108B can perform an ultrasound imaging scan and provide data representing reflected ultrasound signals to the ultrasound imaging hub 110B, which can then forward these signals to the maternal-fetal monitor 102B. As previously described, the fetal monitor 102B can be configured to generate one or more ultrasound images based on signals and display the images on the display 104. Alternatively, if the ultrasound imaging probe 108B has an active cable, the ultrasound imaging probe 108B can generate ultrasound images based on detected signals and send the ultrasound images to the ultrasound imaging hub 110B, which can then send the ultrasound images to the fetal monitor 102B for display on the display 104.

[0049] As previously described, the fetal monitor 102B can display a CTG on display 104, which shows the fetal heart rate over time. However, the fetal heart rate displayed on display 104 may indicate conditions for fetal ultrasound imaging, for example, according to ACOG and / or NICE guidelines. Therefore, clinicians can switch the mode of the fetal monitor 102B to imaging mode. According to one embodiment, switching to imaging mode may involve a touch selection on display 104. Alternatively, the ultrasound imaging probe 108B may include a button that sends a request to the fetal monitor 102B to switch to imaging mode. Thus, the fetal monitor 102B can display ultrasound images (generated by the ultrasound imaging probe 108B with an active cable, or generated by the fetal monitor 102B) on display 104. According to some embodiments of this disclosure, the fetal monitor 102B can display ultrasound images on display 104 alone (e.g., in full-screen mode) or in combination with a CTG (e.g., in split-screen mode).

[0050] Figure 2A This is a figure of a system 200A for on-demand ultrasound imaging using a maternal fetal monitor 202A, according to one embodiment of this disclosure. System 200A includes a maternal fetal monitor 202A (having a display 204 and a port 206) and a combined Doppler ultrasound transducer and imager 208A. The maternal fetal monitor 202A can be similar to that in the reference... Figure 1A The described fetal monitor for pregnant women is 102A. Similar to the reference... Figure 1A , Figure 1B The described display 104, display 204 can be dynamically configured to display ultrasound images in a predefined or user-selectable screen. Alternatively or otherwise, the display can display CTG. Furthermore, system 200A may include conventional CTG equipment (not shown). In such embodiments, maternal fetal monitor 202A can display both ultrasound images and CTG (with measurements from conventional CTG equipment). Similar to maternal fetal monitor 102A, maternal fetal monitor 202A may include multiple ports 206, similar to port 106, which can support active cables and provide power to the combined Doppler ultrasound transducer and imager 208A.

[0051] According to some embodiments of this disclosure, the combined Doppler ultrasound transducer and imager 208A can be connected to the maternal fetal monitor 202A via port 206 (e.g., an mUSB port). Additionally, the combined Doppler ultrasound transducer and imager 208A can be similar to the Doppler ultrasound transducer 110A, having additional features for generating and detecting ultrasound signals useful for generating ultrasound images. More specifically, the combined Doppler ultrasound transducer and imager 208A may additionally include another piezoelectric crystal layer (or piezoelectric crystal array) for generating ultrasound images. Furthermore, the combined Doppler ultrasound transducer and imager may include a selection element (not shown) for performing either a fetal heart rate scan or an ultrasound imaging scan. The combined Doppler ultrasound transducer and imager 208A can thus transmit CTG signals and / or ultrasound image signals to the maternal fetal monitor 202A for processing and display. Furthermore, in the combined device with an active cable, the combined Doppler ultrasound transducer and imager 208A can calculate CTG measurements, generate ultrasound images, and send these to the maternal and fetal monitor 202A for display. Thus, depending on the mode selected by the clinician, the combined Doppler ultrasound transducer and imager 208A can be used to monitor fetal heart rate and / or generate ultrasound images. Additionally, in the case of multiple pregnancies, the combined Doppler transducer and imager 208A can generate multiple ultrasound images. In this case, the maternal and fetal monitor 202A can simultaneously display multiple images on the display 204.

[0052] Thus, the combined Doppler ultrasound transducer and imager 208A provides a single device that can switch between continuous fetal monitoring and ultrasound imaging, as clinically instructed in a continuous integrated workflow. More specifically, the convex surface side (e.g., the vertical side) of the combined Doppler ultrasound transducer and imager 208A includes the following layers: an innermost damping material, an intermediate layer with a piezoelectric crystal array, and an impedance matching layer with a material that matches the impedance or provides a gradual transition. In other words, the impedance matching layer provides a gradual transition from the piezoelectric crystals to the skin, which reduces attenuation and improves efficiency. These layers enable the combined Doppler ultrasound transducer and imager 208A to function as both a transducer for detecting fetal heart rate and an imaging ultrasound probe.

[0053] Figure 2B This is a figure of a system 200B for on-demand ultrasound imaging using a maternal fetal monitor 202B, according to one embodiment of this disclosure. System 200B includes a maternal fetal monitor 202B (having a display 204 and a port 206), a combined Doppler ultrasound transducer and imager 208B, and an ultrasound imaging hub 210. The maternal fetal monitor 202B and the combined Doppler ultrasound transducer and imager 208B are similar to those in the reference [reference]. Figure 2AThe description includes a fetal monitor for pregnant women 202A and a combined Doppler ultrasound transducer and imager 208A.

[0054] However, in this example, the maternal fetal monitor 202B may not supply power to the combined Doppler ultrasound transducer and imager 208B via the mUSB port. Instead, the combined Doppler ultrasound transducer and imager 208B may be connected to an ultrasound imaging hub 210, which may be similar to ultrasound imaging hub 110B, thereby supplying power to the combined Doppler ultrasound transducer and imager 208B via hub port 214. Hub port 214 may be similar to reference [reference / ... Figure 1B The hub port 114 is described. Therefore, the ultrasound imaging hub 210 may include multiple hub ports 214 to enable the use of multiple combined Doppler ultrasound transducers and imagers 208A. In this example, the ultrasound imaging hub 210 includes a power button 216. However, some embodiments may omit the power button 216. Additionally, the ultrasound imaging hub 210 may be connected to a maternal and fetal monitor 202B via port 206. This allows the ultrasound imaging hub 210 to exchange communication information between the combined Doppler ultrasound transducers and imagers 208B and the maternal and fetal monitor 202B. For example, the maternal and fetal monitor 202B may receive a request to generate an ultrasound image via a touchscreen display. In response, the maternal and fetal monitor 202B may provide a request to the ultrasound imaging hub 210, which may forward the request to the combined Doppler ultrasound transducers and imagers 208B. Furthermore, the combined Doppler ultrasound transducer and imager 208B can provide signals detected by the combined Doppler ultrasound transducer and imager 208B to the ultrasound imaging hub 210, which can forward these signals to the maternal and fetal monitor 202B. Alternatively, the combined Doppler ultrasound transducer and imager 208B may include a selection button or other actuator for switching the function of the combined Doppler ultrasound transducer and imager 208B between continuous Doppler monitoring and ultrasound imaging. Additionally, in the case of multiple pregnancies, the combined Doppler transducer and imager 208B can generate multiple ultrasound images. In this case, the maternal and fetal monitor 202B can simultaneously display multiple images on the display 204.

[0055] As previously described, the maternal fetal monitor 202B can display a CTG on display 204, which shows the fetal heart rate over time. However, the fetal heart rate displayed on display 204 may indicate conditions for fetal ultrasound imaging, for example, according to ACOG and / or NICE guidelines. Therefore, clinicians can switch the mode of the maternal fetal monitor 202B to imaging mode. According to one embodiment, switching to imaging mode may involve touch selection on display 204. Thus, the maternal fetal monitor 202B can display ultrasound images on display 204. According to some embodiments of this disclosure, the maternal fetal monitor can display ultrasound images on display 204 alone (e.g., in full-screen mode) or in combination with a CTG.

[0056] Figure 3A This is a side view of a maternal fetal monitor 300 for on-demand ultrasound imaging according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. The maternal fetal monitor 300 includes a handle 302 and a display 304. The display 304 may be similar to that in the reference numeral. Figure 1A , Figure 1B , Figure 2A and Figure 2B The described displays 104 and 204. In this example, display 304 shows a status bar 306, a CTG view 308, and a display selection element 310A. In this example, the status bar 306 has indicators for battery level (e.g., 80%) and wireless network connectivity. However, the status bar 306 may have other similar indicators not shown here. The CTG view 308 includes current fetal heart rate (FHR) 312-1, graphical FHR 312-2, current maternal heart rate (MHR) 314-1, graphical MHR 314-2, non-invasive blood pressure (NIBP) 316, a specific oxygen saturation percentage, uterine activity 318-1, and graphical uterine activity 318-2. The current FHR 312-1 may represent the last FHR measurement. Furthermore, the graphical FHR 312-2 may represent a series of recent FHR measurements within a specific time period. As previously described, the Doppler ultrasound transducer 110A or the combined Doppler ultrasound transducer and imager 208A, 208B can provide FHR 312-1, 312-2 for display on the monitor 304. Similar to FHR, the current MHR 314-1 and the graphical MHR 314-2 can represent the previous MHR measurement and a series of recent MHR measurements within a specific time period, respectively. Additionally, NIBP 316 can represent the most recent measurement of maternal blood pressure. Furthermore, UA318-1 can represent the current measurement of uterine activity in a pregnant patient, and graphical UA 318-2 can represent measurements of uterine activity within a specific time period.

[0057] According to some embodiments of this disclosure, the display selection element 310 may be a user interface element that can be selected to change the display mode of the maternal-fetal monitor 300 from a CTG display mode to an ultrasound image display mode. For example, a clinician or other operator may select the imaging selection element 310. In response, the maternal-fetal monitor 300 may send signals to ultrasound imaging probes 108A, 108B, combined Doppler ultrasound transducers and imagers 208A, 208B and / or ultrasound imaging hubs 110B, 210 to perform ultrasound imaging scans and provide analog signals representing ultrasound images to the maternal-fetal monitor 300. Alternatively, for probes with active cables, the ultrasound imaging probe may generate ultrasound images and provide these images to the maternal-fetal monitor 300. Thus, the maternal-fetal monitor 300 may display ultrasound images on a display 304.

[0058] Figure 3B This is a side view of a fetal monitor 300 for on-demand ultrasound imaging according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 3B The side view can be represented when selecting a reference. Figure 3A The display 304 is obtained after the display selection element 310 is described. Therefore, the display 304 simultaneously displays the ultrasound image 320 and CTG information (e.g., FHR 312-1, MHR 314-1). Additionally, the display 304 shows an image manipulation interface 322. The image manipulation interface 322 allows clinicians or other operators to manipulate the display of the ultrasound image 320. More specifically, the image manipulation interface 322 can be used to zoom in and out, rotate, and move the ultrasound image 320 in various directions and / or angles. Furthermore, the display 304 shows a display selection element 310 labeled "CTG". According to some embodiments of this disclosure, the maternal fetal monitor 300 can be accessed via, as referenced... Figure 3A The display on the display 304 is changed to CTG display mode in response to the selection of display selection element 310. Additionally, the maternal and infant fetal monitor 300 can send signals to the ultrasound imaging probes 108A, 108B, the combined Doppler ultrasound transducers and imagers 208A, 208B, and / or the ultrasound imaging hubs 110, 210 to stop the ultrasound imaging function.

[0059] Figure 3CThis is a side view of a maternal fetal monitor 300 for on-demand ultrasound imaging according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. In this example, two displays 304-1 and 304-2 are present, possibly due to the use of two transducers directly or indirectly connected to the maternal fetal monitor 300, such as Doppler ultrasound transducers 110A and 110B for display 304-1 and ultrasound imaging probes 108A and 108B for display 304-2. Alternatively, a combination of Doppler ultrasound transducers and imagers 208A and 208B can be directly or indirectly connected to the maternal fetal monitor 300 to provide signals and / or measurement results for display 304-1 and signals and / or ultrasound images for display 304-2. According to some embodiments of the present disclosure, the maternal fetal monitor 300 can automatically provide such dual displays in response to the detection of multiple transducers connected to the maternal fetal monitor 300. Alternatively, the visual selection element 310 can provide a choice of CTG display mode, ultrasound imaging display mode, and dual display mode.

[0060] Figure 3D This is a side view of a maternal fetal monitor 300 for on-demand ultrasound imaging and an external keyboard 324-1 according to one embodiment of this disclosure. In this example, the external keyboard 324-1 is connected to the maternal fetal monitor 300. Therefore, a clinician or operator can use the external keyboard 324C to operate the maternal fetal monitor 300, manipulate ultrasound images 320, change the presentation mode on the display 304, and / or any other operation suitable for the operation of the maternal fetal monitor 300 and ultrasound imaging as described herein.

[0061] Figure 3E This is a side view of a maternal fetal monitor 300 for on-demand ultrasound imaging according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. In this example, the display includes an on-screen keypad 324D. The on-screen keypad 324D may be functionally similar to an external keypad 324C. However, depending on the available display space on the display 304, the on-screen keypad 324D may have more or fewer keys. The maternal fetal monitor 300 may automatically display the on-screen keypad 324D after selecting an ultrasound imaging display mode. Alternatively, a clinician or other operator may select the on-screen keypad 324C for display from a predetermined input selection list (not shown). Additionally, a clinician or other operator may use on-screen selections (not shown) to configure the on-screen keypad 324D, execution key selection, program keys, etc.

[0062] Figure 3FThis is a side view of a maternal fetal monitor 300 for on-demand ultrasound imaging according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. In this example, the ultrasound image 320 includes a thermal map superimposed on an ultrasound image of the outline of the abdomen. In this example, the thermal map is represented by three regions 326, which can indicate different levels of uterine activity. Additionally, the thermal map can indicate to a clinician where to place the Doppler ultrasound transducer probe, for example, to more effectively point towards the fetal heart and detect the fetal heart rate. Furthermore, the maternal fetal monitor 300 can be configured to automatically detect the location of the fetal heart and provide instructions (not shown) on a display 304 regarding where to position the Doppler transducer. Moreover, the maternal fetal monitor 300 can be configured to determine the current stage of labor based on the thermal map and present this information on the display 304. The current stage of labor can describe the descent of the fetus at a given degree of cervical dilation. For example, the maternal fetal monitor 300 can input the thermal map into a machine learning model, which is trained to determine the current stage of labor based on the thermal map.

[0063] Figure 4 This is an exemplary maternal fetal monitor (MFM) 400 with an ultrasound imaging manager according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. The example MFM 400 with an ultrasound imaging manager may be similar to the maternal fetal monitors 102A, 102B, 202A, 202B, 300 described herein, and may perform the functions described in the references. Figure 1A , Figure 1B , Figure 2A , Figure 2B and Figures 3A to 3F The described on-demand ultrasound imaging. In this example, the MFM 400 with an ultrasound imaging manager includes a processor 402, a memory 404, an input / output (I / O) interface 410, and a network interface 412, which are connected via interconnect 414. The processor 402 may be a computer processing circuit (e.g., a central processing unit (CPU)) that retrieves and executes programming instructions 406 stored in the memory 404 to perform the functions described herein. The interconnect 414 moves data, such as programming instructions, between the processor 402, the memory 404, the I / O interface 410, and the network interface 412. The interconnect 414 may include one or more buses.

[0064] Memory 404 may be computer memory or storage device, including volatile memory such as random access memory (RAM) devices (e.g., static RAM, dynamic RAM, etc.); and non-volatile memory such as hard disk drives, solid-state drives (SSDs), removable memory cards, optical storage devices, flash memory devices, etc. In some examples, memory 404 may include both volatile and non-volatile memory devices. Furthermore, memory 404 may store instructions 406 that can be executed as described in the reference. Figure 1A , Figure 1B , Figure 2A , Figure 2B and Figures 3A to 3F Described on-demand ultrasound imaging.

[0065] Additionally, the MFM 400 with an ultrasound imaging manager can electronically communicate with I / O devices 416 via I / O interface 410 and with network 418 via network interface 412. I / O devices 416 can capture input and provide output as described herein, and may include ultrasound imaging hubs 110B, 210, ultrasound imaging probes 108A, 208A, Doppler ultrasound transducer 110A, and combined Doppler ultrasound transducers and imagers 208A, 208B. Network 418 can be an electronic communication network, such as a local area network (LAN), wide area network (WAN), etc., for handling communication between the MFM 400 with the ultrasound imaging manager and the machine learning model described herein. In some examples, network 418 can be wired, wireless (e.g., Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, or cellular), or some other computer communication network.

[0066] In some implementations, the MFM 400 with an ultrasound imaging manager may be a server computer or similar device that does not have a user interface but receives requests from other computer systems that have one or more user interfaces. Furthermore, in some implementations, the MFM 400 with an ultrasound imaging manager may be a portable computer, laptop computer, tablet computer, pocket computer, telephone, smartphone, etc.

[0067] It should be noted that, as used herein, the term "mechanism" may encompass hardware, software, firmware, or any suitable combination thereof. In some embodiments, any suitable computer-readable medium may be used to store instructions for performing the functions and / or processes described herein. For example, in some embodiments, the computer-readable medium may be transient or non-transitory. For example, a non-transitory computer-readable medium may include media such as magnetic media (such as hard disks, floppy disks, etc.), optical media (such as compact discs, digital video discs, Blu-ray discs, etc.), semiconductor media (such as RAM, flash memory, electrically programmable read-only memory (EPROM), electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM), etc.), any suitable medium that is not transient during transmission or lacks any persistent appearance, and / or any suitable tangible medium. As another example, a transient computer-readable medium may include signals on a network, in wires, conductors, optical fibers, circuits, or in any suitable medium that is transient during transmission and lacks any persistent appearance, and / or any suitable intangible medium.

[0068] This written description uses examples to disclose the invention, including the best mode, and also enables any person skilled in the art to perform and use the invention. Certain terms are used for the purposes of brevity, clarity, and ease of understanding. Unnecessary limitations should not be inferred from this description beyond the requirements of the prior art, as such terms are used for descriptive purposes only and are intended to be understood broadly. The patent scope of this invention is defined by the claims and may include other examples that would occur to a person skilled in the art. These other examples are intended to be within the scope of the claims if they have features or structural elements that are not different from the literal language of the claims, or if they include equivalent features or structural elements that are not substantially different from the literal language of the claims.

Claims

1. A fetal monitor for pregnant women, the fetal monitor comprising: monitor; Processing equipment; A memory device, the memory device including instructions executable by the processor to perform the following operations: Displaying fetal heart rate and uterine contraction patterns of the pregnant patient and her fetus; and In response to a request, an ultrasound image is displayed based on multiple ultrasound signals generated and detected by an ultrasound imaging probe that communicates with the maternal fetal monitor.

2. The fetal monitor for pregnant women according to claim 1, wherein the ultrasound imaging probe comprises a combined Doppler ultrasound transducer and an imager.

3. The fetal monitor for pregnant women according to claim 1, wherein the instructions can be executed by the processor to generate the fetal heart rate and uterine contraction chart.

4. The fetal monitor for pregnant women according to claim 1, wherein the instructions are executable by the processor to generate the ultrasound images.

5. The fetal monitor for pregnant women according to claim 1, wherein the user interface is configured to provide three-dimensional (3D) ultrasound images in response to selections on the fetal monitor for pregnant women.

6. The fetal monitor for pregnant women according to claim 5, wherein the instructions are executable by the processor to generate a 3D ultrasound image of the abdomen of the pregnant woman, the image including visual elements indicating the location of one or more Doppler ultrasound transducers for detecting fetal heart rate.

7. The fetal monitor for pregnant women according to claim 6, wherein the instructions are executable by the processor to present a user interface, wherein the user interface is configured to present a heat map representing uterine activity on the display in response to a selection on the user interface, the heat map being overlaid on a 3D image.

8. The fetal monitor for pregnant women according to claim 1, wherein the fetal monitor for pregnant women provides power to the ultrasound imaging probe via an mUSB port.

9. The fetal monitor for pregnant women according to claim 1, wherein each mUSB port in a subset of the plurality of mUSB ports is configured to connect to a device that generates one or more elements of the fetal heart rate and uterine contraction graph.

10. The fetal monitor for pregnant women according to claim 1, wherein the fetal monitor for pregnant women responds to a selection on the fetal monitor for pregnant women to signal the ultrasound imaging probe to generate an ultrasound signal for the ultrasound image.

11. The fetal monitor for pregnant women according to claim 1, wherein the instructions are executable by the processor to display multiple fetal heart rate and uterine contraction graphs of multiple fetuses.

12. The fetal monitor for pregnant women according to claim 1, wherein the fetal monitor for pregnant women is configured to switch views on the display between the fetal heart rate and contraction graph and the ultrasound image in response to a signal from the ultrasound imaging probe.

13. The fetal monitor for pregnant women according to claim 1, wherein the instructions are executable by the processor to present a customizable on-screen keyboard for interacting with ultrasound images.

14. The fetal monitor for pregnant women according to claim 1, wherein the instructions are executable by the processor to receive the ultrasound images from the ultrasound imaging probe.

15. A system comprising: Ultrasonic imaging hub; Ultrasonic imaging probe; as well as According to any one of claims 1 to 14, the fetal monitor for pregnant women is wherein the ultrasound imaging hub communicates with the ultrasound imaging probe and the fetal monitor for pregnant women, and wherein the ultrasound imaging hub provides power to the ultrasound imaging probe.

16. A medical device, the medical device comprising: A combined Doppler ultrasound transducer and imager, the combined Doppler ultrasound transducer and imager comprising: A first piezoelectric crystal layer, wherein the first piezoelectric crystal layer is configured as follows: Generating multiple first ultrasonic signals at a first frequency; and Detect multiple first reflection signals of the first ultrasound signal, wherein the first reflection signal represents one or more fetal heart rate and uterine contraction measurements of the fetus of the pregnant woman. A second piezoelectric crystal layer, wherein the second piezoelectric crystal layer is configured as follows: Generating multiple second ultrasonic signals at a second frequency; and Detecting multiple second reflection signals of the second ultrasound signal, the second reflection signals representing ultrasound images of the fetus and the pregnant woman; and A button, configured to, when selected: Generate the second ultrasound signal; and A plurality of signals corresponding to the second reflected signal are sent to a maternal fetal monitor including a display, the plurality of signals representing the ultrasound image.

17. The medical device of claim 16, wherein the combined Doppler ultrasound transducer and imager are configured as follows: The fetal heart rate and uterine contraction measurement is calculated based on the first reflected signal; The ultrasound image is calculated based on the second reflected signal; Send the fetal heart rate and uterine contraction measurements to the fetal monitor for pregnant women; and The ultrasound images are transmitted to the fetal monitor for pregnant women.

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