Automated Fluid Loss Estimation Using Weight Differential
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Inaccurate estimation of fluid loss, such as blood, during medical procedures poses risks to patient health and increases medical costs due to unnecessary transfusions and delayed resuscitation.
Innovation Solution
A computer-implemented method and system that estimate fluid loss by measuring the difference between the wet and dry weights of items containing the fluid, using graphical user interfaces for user input, and integrating with wireless scales and optical sensors for real-time tracking.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If visual inspection and manual estimation methods are used to assess fluid loss, then the estimation process is simple and quick, but the accuracy and reliability of fluid loss measurement deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual visual inspection and estimation with an automated electronic weighing system. The scale continuously measures the weight of surgical items (sponges, gauze, drapes) to calculate fluid loss, substituting human judgment with precise mechanical measurement. This resolves the contradiction by providing high measurement accuracy through automated weight-based calculation without requiring complex manual assessment procedures
Solution Approach 2:
The system automatically tracks and calculates fluid loss by continuously weighing surgical items and comparing weights before and after fluid absorption. The processor autonomously computes fluid volume based on weight differential and item characteristics, eliminating the need for manual measurement intervention. This self-automating approach achieves high measurement precision while keeping the system relatively simple to operate
2Reliability
If traditional manual estimation methods are used for fluid loss assessment, then the operational process is simple, but the reliability of patient care decisions deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system provides continuous real-time feedback on fluid loss measurements to healthcare providers. The processor calculates and displays cumulative fluid loss data throughout the surgical procedure, enabling informed clinical decisions. This feedback mechanism enhances the reliability of patient care decisions by providing accurate, up-to-date information while maintaining ease of operation through automated data collection and presentation
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces subjective manual estimation with objective electronic measurement and calculation. The system automatically weighs surgical items, processes the weight data through algorithms that account for item characteristics, and generates reliable fluid loss measurements. This substitution of mechanical measurement for human judgment significantly improves the reliability of care decisions while the automated nature keeps the system easy to operate
3Measurement precision
If weight-based fluid loss measurement is implemented, then the accuracy of fluid loss estimation is improved, but the device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a straightforward electronic weighing scale integrated with a processor to measure fluid loss. The system weighs surgical items before and after fluid absorption, then calculates fluid volume based on the weight differential. This mechanical measurement approach provides high accuracy without requiring complex imaging or sensor arrays, resolving the contradiction by achieving precise measurement through relatively simple weight-based methodology
Solution Approach 2:
The system creates a digital record of fluid loss measurements by continuously weighing and logging data. Instead of requiring complex real-time analysis, the system captures weight data at discrete intervals and processes it to generate accurate fluid loss information. This data copying and processing approach achieves high measurement precision while keeping the physical system relatively simple
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Provides accurate and real-time estimation of fluid loss, reducing the risk of under or overestimation, thereby improving patient outcomes and reducing medical costs.
Implementation Method 1
a wireless scale to measure a weight of the at least one item
Data Source
AI summary
A computer-implemented method for quantifying blood on one or more absorbent items is provided. The method includes receiving data indicative of a quantity of each type of the absorbent items to be used in a medical procedure, accessing a dry weight for each type of the absorbent items, and determining a total dry weight based on the dry weight for each type of the absorbent items. Measurement signals are received from a scale measuring the absorbent items containing blood. An occurrence of a weighing event may be determined using a machine learning algorithm trained on a training data set of scale signal patterns. A wet weight of the absorbent items associated with the weighing event is received. A volume of blood contained in the absorbent items is determined based on the wet weight and the total dry weight. The volume of blood is displayed on a display.