Abstract: TITLE OF INVENTION: DEVICE FOR PLACENTA EXTRACTION A device (100) for extraction of placenta is disclosed. The device (100) includes a scraper (110) and an elongated member (120). The scraper (110) is disposed at a distal end (100b) of the device (100). The scraper (110) is configured to detach and scoop out a placenta from the uterine cavity. The elongated member (120) is coupled to the scraper. The elongated member (120) is configured to guide and position the scraper (110) at a target location of the placenta. Fig. 1A
Description:FORM 2
THE PATENTS ACT, 1970
(39 of 1970)
&
THE PATENTS RULES, 2003
COMPLETE SPECIFICATION
(Section 10 and Rule 13)
1. TITLE OF THE INVENTION:
DEVICE FOR RETRIEVING AN IMPLANT
2. APPLICANT:
Name : Meril Corporation (I) Private Limited
Nationality : Indian
Address : Survey No. 135/139, Muktanand Marg, Bilakhia House, Pardi, Vapi, Valsad-396191 Gujarat, India.
3. PREAMBLE TO THE DESCRIPTION
The following specification particularly describes the invention and the manner in which it is to be performed:
FIELD OF INVENTION
[001] The present disclosure relates to the field of medical devices. More particularly, the present disclosure relates to a device for placenta extraction.
BACKGROUND OF INVENTION
[002] A placenta is a temporary organ that develops in a uterus during pregnancy to support fetal growth and survival. The placenta functions as an interface between a mother and a fetus, enabling the exchange of oxygen, nutrients, and metabolic waste via the umbilical cord. Normally, following the delivery of the fetus, the placenta is expelled from the uterus. However, in certain cases, this expulsion fails to occur within the clinically accepted time frame, typically within one hour postpartum, resulting in a condition known as retained placenta.
[003] The retained placenta is a significant obstetric complication, occurring in approximately 0.5% to 3% of vaginal deliveries. If not promptly and effectively managed, this condition may lead to serious maternal health risks such as postpartum hemorrhage (PPH), uterine trauma, infection, and in extreme cases, maternal mortality. Early and safe removal of the retained placenta is critical to minimize these risks and ensure maternal well-being.
[004] Conventional method for managing the retained placenta includes manual removal, in which a medical practitioner inserts a hand into the uterus via vaginal canal to manually detach and extract the placenta. While this approach is commonly practiced, this approach poses several disadvantages, including increased risk of infection, substantial patient discomfort, and potential for incomplete removal, especially in the absence of ultrasound guidance or in cases where the provider lacks adequate experience.
[005] To supplement or replace manual techniques, various obstetric instruments, such as Bierer forceps, are also employed for placental extraction. The Bierer forceps includes a long, slender shaft and curved, serrated tips, designed to securely grasp placenta and assist in placenta removal, ideally under real-time ultrasound guidance. Despite their intended utility, the use of such instruments carries inherent risks, including uterine perforation, cervical injury, incomplete tissue removal, retained fragments, and post-procedural infection. Furthermore, the effectiveness of forceps-based extraction is highly dependent on the medical practitioner’s skill level and the availability of appropriate imaging tools.
[006] When manual or instrument-assisted removal proves ineffective or contraindicated, more invasive procedures, such as dilation and curettage (D&C) or hysteroscopic morcellation, may be required. The D&C involves dilating the cervix and scraping the uterine lining with a curette under anesthesia. The hysteroscopic morcellation utilizes a hysteroscope equipped with a rotating blade and suction to remove the retained placenta. Although these procedures can be effective in removing placental remnants. However, these procedures introduce additional risks, including uterine perforation, heavy bleeding, uterine scarring, and prolonged recovery time. Moreover, these procedures require specialized equipment and trained personnel, limiting their use in low-resource clinical settings.
[007] Thus, there is a need for a device that addresses the limitations and drawbacks of the conventional devices.
SUMMARY OF INVENTION
[008] The present disclosure relates to a device for extraction of placenta. In an embodiment, the device includes a scraper and an elongated member. The scraper is disposed at a distal end of the device. The scraper is configured to detach and scoop out a placenta from the uterine cavity. The elongated member is coupled to the scraper. The elongated member is configured to guide and position the scraper at a target location of the placenta.
[009] The foregoing features and other features as well as the advantages of the invention will become more apparent from the following detailed description, which proceeds with reference to the accompanying figures.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS
[0010] The summary above, as well as the following detailed description of illustrative embodiments, is better understood when read in conjunction with the apportioned drawings. For the purpose of illustrating the present disclosure, exemplary constructions of the disclosure are shown in the drawings. However, the disclosure is not limited to specific methods and instrumentalities disclosed herein. Moreover, those in the art will understand that the drawings are not to scale.
[0011] Fig. 1A depicts a perspective view of a device 100 for placenta extraction, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
[0012] Fig. 1B depicts a side perspective view of the device 100, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
[0013] Fig. 1C depicts a transverse cross-sectional view of a scraper 110 of the device 100, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
[0014] Fig. 2 depicts the front view of a handle 130 of the device 100, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
[0015] Fig. 3 depicts a flowchart of a method 200 for extracting a placenta using the device 100, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
[0016] Figs. 4A-4D depicts various views of the device 100 at different stages of the method 200 of extracting placenta using the device 100, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE ACCOMPANYING DRAWINGS
[0017] Prior to describing the invention in detail, definitions of certain words or phrases used throughout this patent document will be defined: the terms "include" and "comprise", as well as derivatives thereof, mean inclusion without limitation; the term "or" is inclusive, meaning and/or; the phrases "coupled with" and "associated therewith", as well as derivatives thereof, may mean to include, 15 be included within, interconnect with, contain, be contained within, connect to or with, couple to or with, be communicable with, cooperate with, interleave, juxtapose, be proximate to, be bound to or with, have a property of, or the like; Definitions of certain words and phrases are provided throughout this patent document, and those of ordinary skill in the art will understand that such definitions apply in many, if not most, instances to prior as well as future uses of such defined words and phrases.
[0018] Reference throughout this specification to “one embodiment,” “an embodiment,” or similar language means that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with the embodiment is included in at least one embodiment. Thus, appearances of the phrases “in one embodiment,” “in an embodiment,” and similar language throughout this specification may, but do not necessarily, all refer to the same embodiment, but mean “one or more but not all embodiments” unless expressly specified otherwise. The terms “including,” “comprising,” “having,” and variations thereof mean “including but not limited to” unless expressly specified otherwise. An enumerated listing of items does not imply that any or all of the items are mutually exclusive and/or mutually inclusive, unless expressly specified otherwise. The terms “a,” “an,” and “the” also refer to “one or more” unless expressly specified otherwise.
[0019] Although the operations of exemplary embodiments of the disclosed method may be described in a particular, sequential order for convenient presentation, it should be understood that the disclosed embodiments can encompass an order of operations other than the particular, sequential order disclosed. For example, operations described sequentially may in some cases be rearranged or performed concurrently. Further, descriptions and disclosures provided in association with one particular embodiment are not limited to that embodiment, and may be applied to any embodiment disclosed herein. Moreover, for the sake of simplicity, the attached figures may not show the various ways in which the disclosed system, method, and apparatus can be used in combination with other systems, methods, and apparatuses.
[0020] Furthermore, the described features, advantages, and characteristics of the embodiments may be combined in any suitable manner. One skilled in the relevant art will recognize that the embodiments may be practiced without one or more of the specific features or advantages of a particular embodiment. In other instances, additional features and advantages may be recognized in certain embodiments that may not be present in all embodiments. These features and advantages of the embodiments will become more fully apparent from the following description and apportioned claims, or may be learned by the practice of embodiments as set forth hereinafter.
[0021] The present disclosure relates to a device for placenta extraction. The device provides an effective and gentle solution for placenta removal, aiming to reduce patient discomfort while facilitating a safer, more efficient procedure for the medical practitioner. The device is configured to facilitate safe and complete removal of the placenta, thereby lowering the risk of complications such as retained fragments, postpartum hemorrhage, and/or infection. The device includes a scraper, an elongated member, and a handle, all operatively configured to navigate through the anatomical pathways of a vaginal canal, a cervix, and a uterine cavity. The scraper is designed with flexible and tapered geometries to conform to the contours of the uterine wall during insertion and removal, thereby minimizing trauma to surrounding tissues. The configuration of the device enhances both safety and comfort during the procedure. Additionally, the elongated member is structured to maintain the rigidity and stability of the device while enabling smooth navigation through the vaginal canal, even in the absence of real-time imaging guidance and an experienced medical practitioner.
[0022] Now referring to the figures, Fig. 1A illustrates a perspective view and Fig. 1B depicts a side view of a device 100, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. The device 100 is configured for placenta extraction from the uterine cavity after the delivery of a fetus. The device 100 is designed to minimize the discomfort for a patient and enhance ease of use for a medical practitioner. The device 100 includes a proximal end 100a and a distal end 100b. It is to be noted that a proximal end 100a and a distal end 100b are used as references to describe the respective ends of a plurality of components of the device 100. Each component of the device 100 has respective ends, an end towards the proximal end 100a is referred to as a proximal end of that component; similarly, the end towards the distal end 100b is referred to as a distal end of that component. In an embodiment, the device 100 includes a scraper 110, an elongated member 120, and a handle 130. The scraper 110 is disposed at the distal end 100b of the device 100. The handle 130 is disposed at the proximal end 100a of the device 100. The elongated member 120 extends between the scraper 110 and the handle 130. The device 100 is made of a biocompatible material comprising polypropylene (PP), acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS), polyethylene, polyurethane or combinations thereof. In an embodiment, the device 100 is made of ABS.
[0023] The scraper 110 is configured to detach and scoop out the placenta from the uterine cavity. The scraper 110 includes a proximal end 110a, a distal end 110b, a proximal section 110c and a distal section 110d. The proximal section 110c and the distal section 110d extend along the longitudinal axis of the device 100, with the proximal section 110c located towards the proximal end 100a of the device 100, and the distal section 110d located towards the distal end 100b of the device 100. In an embodiment, the proximal section 110c of the scraper 110 is designed such that its width increases axially from its proximal end to its distal end. Similarly, in an embodiment, the distal section 110d is designed such that its width decreases axially from its proximal end to its distal end. The scraper 110 has pre-defined shape, such as, leaf-like, kite-shaped, triangle, elliptical, teardrop-shaped or combinations thereof. In an embodiment, the scraper 110 has a leaf-like shape. The tapering geometry of the scraper 110 includes a maximum lateral width (W) at the boundary of the proximal section 110c and the distal section 110d. The lateral width of the proximal section 110c increases axially from a proximal end 110a to a distal end 110b . The lateral width of the distal section 110d decreases axially from a proximal end 110a to a distal end 110b of the distal section 110d of the scraper 110. In an embodiment, the maximum lateral width (W) at a boundary of the proximal section 110c and the distal section 110d may range from 90 mm to 100 mm. In an embodiment, the maximum lateral width (W) of the scraper 110 is 95 mm. The lateral width of the proximal section 110c at its proximal end may range between 5 mm and 15 mm. In an example implementation, the lateral width of the proximal section 110c at its proximal end is 10 mm. The lateral width of the distal section 110d at its distal end may range between 5 mm and 10 mm. In an embodiment, lateral width of the distal section 110d at its distal end is 10 mm. The top surface 113 of the scraper 110 may be concave or flat profile to accommodate the placenta during extraction. In an embodiment, the scraper 110 has a flat top surface.
[0024] A peripheral edge 112 of the scraper 110 is smoothly contoured and may include a degree of flexibility to allow deflection towards a longitudinal axis of the scraper 110 during insertion, navigation, and extraction. This contouring facilitates better conformity to the uterine wall during manipulation. The structural configuration of the scraper 110 allows effective tissue engagement and placental detachment along its lateral span without introducing excessive pressure or trauma to the uterine wall. The peripheral edge 112 of the scraper 110 corresponds to an outer boundary of the scraper 110. In an embodiment, the peripheral edge 112 of the scraper 110 is sharp which helps in scraping the placenta from the uterine wall. The thickness of the scraper 110 may be uniform or non-uniform. In an embodiment, the thickness of the scraper 110 is uniform, and the scraper 110 includes a chamfered portion 114 at the peripheral edge 112 as shown in Fig. 1C. The chamfered portion 114 tapers toward the peripheral edge 112, thereby forming a sharp profile of the peripheral edge. The thickness of the peripheral edge 112 may range from 0.01 mm to 0.5 mm. In an embodiment, the thickness of the peripheral edge 112 is 0.1 mm. In an embodiment, the thickness of the scraper 110 decreases radially from a central region 110e of the scraper 110 towards the peripheral edge 112. In other words, the thickness of the scraper 110 is maximum at the center 110e and decreases towards the peripheral edge 112, forming a sharp peripheral edge 112. The thickness of the scraper 110 at the central region 110e may range from 0.8 mm to 2 mm. In an embodiment, the thickness of the scraper 110 at the central region 110e is 1 mm.
[0025] Although the thickness of the peripheral edge 112 is described as uniform around its circumferential length, such description is merely exemplary. In certain embodiments, the thickness of the peripheral edge 112 may be non-uniform. For example, the thickness of the peripheral edge 112 in the distal section 110d of the scraper 110 may be smaller than that in the proximal section 110c. This non-uniformity enhances insertion of the device 100 into the vaginal canal and improves the efficiency of scraping the placenta from the uterine wall.
[0026] The structural design of the scraper 110, including the sharp peripheral edge 112 and tapered profile, facilitates effective scooping and removal of the placenta from the uterine wall. In an embodiment, the distal end 110b of the scraper 110 is configured to be inserted into the vaginal canal. The proximal end 110a and the distal end 110b define a predefined length of the scraper 110. The predefined length of the scraper 110 may range from 100 mm to 110 mm. In an embodiment, the predefined length of the scraper 110 is 105 mm.
[0027] The scraper 110 is flexible and configured to adapt the varying shapes of the uterine cavity. The scraper 110 may be made of a flexible, biocompatible material, including, without limitation, polypropylene (PP), acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS), polyethylene, polyurethane, etc. In an embodiment, the scraper 110 is made of ABS.
[0028] The proximal end 110a of the scraper 110 is coupled to the elongated member 120. In an embodiment, the scraper 110 and the elongated member 120 are integrally molded to form a unitary structure. Though the scraper 110 and the elongated member 120 are described herein as integrally coupled, it is possible that they may be separate components coupled together using a suitable coupling techniques, such as, without limitation, snap-fit, threaded coupling, adhesive coupling, etc.
[0029] The elongated member 120 includes a proximal end 120a and a distal end 120b. In an embodiment, the distal end 120b of the elongated member 120 extends for a partial length of the scraper 110. The proximal end 120a and the distal end 120b of the elongated member 120 may be tapered, or cylindrical, etc. In an embodiment, the distal end 120b and proximal end 120a of the scraper 110 have a tapered profile. The elongated member 120 is configured to guide and position the scraper 110 towards a target location of the placenta 150 through the vaginal canal or the cervix to facilitate detaching and scooping out the placenta from the uterine wall. The proximal end 120a of the elongated member 120 is coupled to the handle 130 using techniques like injection molding, compression molding, additive manufacturing etc. In an embodiment, the proximal end 120a of the elongated member 120 is coupled to the handle 130 using a molding process. The distal end 120b of the elongated member 120 is coupled to the proximal end of the scraper 110 using techniques like injection molding, compression molding, additive manufacturing etc. In an embodiment, the elongated member 120 is coupled to the scraper 110 using the molding process.
[0030] In an embodiment, the elongated member 120 is flexible and configured to conform to the anatomical path of the vaginal canal. The elongated member 120 enables the movement and positioning of the scraper 110 within the uterus. The elongated member 120 is designed for ease of navigation, the elongated member 120 is capable of advancing through the vaginal canal with minimal resistance, even without the aid of real-time imaging. In an embodiment, in absence of real-time imaging the health practitioners use a speculum and a light source to visualize the vaginal canal and the cervix. The elongated member 120 may be made of a biocompatible material selected to provide sufficient structural integrity for insertion while allowing a degree of flexibility for patient comfort. Examples of the biocompatible material for the elongated member 120 may include, without limitation, ABS, PP, polyethylene, polyurethane, etc. In an embodiment, the elongated member 120 is made of ABS. The elongated member 120 is designed with a balance of flexibility and stiffness, allowing it to conform to the natural anatomical curvature of the vaginal canal and cervix while maintaining sufficient structural integrity to transmit force and guide the scraper 110 with precision. The flexibility of the elongated member 120 enables atraumatic navigation through soft tissue pathways, reducing the risk of mucosal injury or patient discomfort during insertion and withdrawal. Simultaneously, the inherent stiffness ensures that directional input from the handle 130 is reliably transferred to the distal scraper 110, enabling accurate positioning and effective placental detachment. Additionally, the elongated member 120 has a smooth, low-friction surface to facilitate seamless advancement and retraction. Optionally, the elongated member 120 may include surface markings, gradations, or ergonomic contouring to facilitate accurate and controlled placement of the scraper 110 within the uterine cavity.
[0031] The elongated member 120 may have a shape, such as, without limitation, cylindrical, elliptical, ovoid, etc., depending on ergonomic or procedural considerations. In an embodiment, the elongated member 120 is cylindrical. In an embodiment, the elongated member 120 has a smooth, high-gloss outer surface to minimize friction and reduce the risk of trauma or irritation to the vaginal canal and the cervix during insertion and withdrawal of the device 100. The diameter and the length of the elongated member 120 may be selected based on clinical and anatomical considerations. In an embodiment, the elongated member 120 includes a plurality of tapered segments, wherein the diameter varies along its length as shown in Fig. 1B. In an embodiment, the elongated member 120 includes a predefined length ranging from 172 mm to 185 mm, and a predefined maximum diameter ranging from 4 mm to 20 mm. In an embodiment, the predefined length and the predefined maximum diameter of the elongated member 120 are 180 mm and 15 mm, respectively.
[0032] In an embodiment, the distal end 120b of the elongated member 120 is integrally coupled or molded with the scraper 110, forming a unitary structure that enhances the overall stability and control of the scraper 110 during use. The integrated configuration of the elongated member 120 and the scraper 110 minimizes relative movement between the scraper 110 and the elongated member 120, thereby improving the precision and reliability of the scraper 110 during insertion, manipulation, and withdrawal within the uterine cavity.
[0033] Fig. 2 depicts a front view of the handle 130 of the device 100, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. The handle 130 is disposed at the proximal end 100a of the device 100. In an embodiment, the handle 130 is coupled to the proximal end 120a of the elongated member 120. The handle 130 is ergonomically designed to provide a comfortable and secure grip for the medical practitioner, facilitating controlled manipulation of the device 100 during insertion, positioning, and removal. The structural configuration of the handle 130 enables intuitive handling, thereby enhancing the precision and safety of the extraction procedure. The handle 130 may be made of a biocompatible material selected to provide sufficient structural integrity for insertion while allowing a degree of flexibility for patient comfort. Suitable materials may include, without limitation, ABS, PP, polyethylene, polyurethane, etc. In an embodiment, the handle 130 is made of ABS.
[0034] In an embodiment, the handle 130 includes a ring 131, a transition section 133, and a shaft 135. The ring 131, the transition 133 and the shaft 135 are coupled to each other to form the handle 130. In an embodiment, the transition section 133 and the shaft 135 extend distally from the ring 131. The transition section 133 and the shaft 135 are configured to facilitate the connection between the ring 131 and the elongated member 120. These components are designed to ensure mechanical continuity, ergonomic handling, and efficient movement transmission from the medical practitioner to the scraper 110 of the device 100. In an embodiment, the ring 131, the transition section 133, and the shaft 135 are configured to provide support to the elongated member 120 and allow the medical practitioner to maneuver and control the scraper 110 during the placenta extraction procedure. In an embodiment, the ring 131 includes an aperture 131b configured to accommodate at least one finger of the medical practitioner, enhancing grip, control, and comfort during the extraction procedure. In an embodiment, the medical practitioner manipulates the device 100 by grasping the ring 131, directing the scraper 110 towards the uterine wall for effective detachment of the placenta 150. The ring 131 may be made of a biocompatible material selected to provide sufficient structural integrity for insertion while allowing a degree of flexibility for patient comfort such as, ABS, PP, polyethylene, polyurethane, etc. In an embodiment, the ring 131 is made of ABS.
[0035] Optionally, the outer surface of the ring 131 is textured, or knurled, or has a plurality of serrations 131a (herein referred to as serration 131a) to improve grip, especially in fluidic or clinical environments. The serration 131a may be integrally molded or surface-coated using materials such as ABS, PP, polyethylene, polyurethane, etc. In an embodiment, the serrations 131a are made of ABS.
[0036] The outer diameter D and width (B) of the ring 131 may be selected based on procedural requirements. In an embodiment, the outer diameter (D) of the ring 131 range between 35 mm and 42 mm. In an embodiment, the outer diameter of the ring 131 is 39 mm. In an embodiment, the width (B) of the ring 131 ranges between 4mm and 7mm. In an embodiment, the width of the ring 131 is 5.7mm.
[0037] In an embodiment, the transition section 133 is disposed between the ring 131 and the shaft 135 and serves as an intermediate segment that tapers or contours to provide a smooth change in geometry, thereby enhancing structural integrity and distributing mechanical loads during manipulation. The transition section 133 may have a flared, or curved profile, allowing for a more comfortable grip and improved control during use.
[0038] The shaft 135 extends longitudinally from the distal end of the transition section 133 and is coupled with the proximal end 120a of the elongated member 120. The shaft 135 is an elongated, rigid member that provides the necessary axial and torsional strength to transmit movement accurately to the scraper 110. The shaft 135 may be hollow or solid, depending on procedural requirements. In an embodiment, the shaft 135 is a solid structure.
[0039] In an embodiment, the ring 131, the transition section 133 and the shaft 135 are integrally molded as a single piece using processes such as injection molding. Alternatively, the ring 131, the transition section 133, and the shaft 135 may be fabricated separately and joined using methods including snap-fit locking, ultrasonic welding, adhesive bonding, interference fits, or threaded coupling. The transition section 133 and shaft 135 may be made of same or different biocompatible materials based on functional, mechanical, or manufacturing requirements. Suitable materials include ABS, PP, or other medical-grade polymers. In one embodiment, both components are made from ABS. The handle 130 may further include additives, stabilizers, surface finishes, or antimicrobial coatings to enhance durability and hygiene.
[0040] In an embodiment, the scraper 110, the elongated member 120, and the handle 130 are integrally formed as a single piece through a molding process. The molding manufacturing process ensures structural continuity, eliminates weak joints, and enhances the overall durability and reliability of the device 100. The use of molding, such as injection molding with biocompatible polymeric materials, allows for precise control over the shape, flexibility, and surface finish of each component, particularly important for ensuring patient safety and comfort. Additionally, the single-piece construction simplifies production, reduces assembly requirements, and supports cost-effective scalability for mass manufacturing.
[0041] Fig. 3 depicts a flowchart of a method 200 for extracting the placenta 150 using the device 100 of the present disclosure. At step 202, the scraper 110 is inserted into the vaginal canal 50 of the patient, as depicted in Fig 4A. The tapered profile of the scraper 110 facilitates smooth and gentle passage through the cervix 40 into the uterine cavity 30 of the uterus 10, minimizing patient discomfort. Optionally, the insertion may be performed under ultrasound guidance to enhance positioning accuracy.
[0042] At step 204, once the scraper 110 is inserted, the medical practitioner advances the scraper 110 through the uterine canal towards the placenta 150. The elongated member 120 with a smooth and low-friction surface allows atraumatic navigation through the vaginal canal 50. The distal end of the scraper 110 is guided to the site of the placenta 150, with position and orientation controlled by the practitioner using the handle 130, as depicted in Fig 4B.
[0043] At step 206, once the scraper 110 is positioned near the placenta 150, as depicted in Fig. 4B, the medical practitioner manipulates the handle 130, specifically the ring 131 to perform controlled motions. The motions like one or more of gentle rotations, sweeping arcs, and back-and-forth movements to detach the placenta 150 from the uterine wall 20 of the uterus 10. The elongated member 120 transfers the motion of the handle 130 to the scraper 110. The peripheral edge 112 of the scraper 110 is configured to engage with and separate the adherent placenta 150 from the uterine wall 20 as depicted in Fig. 4C.
[0044] At step 208, once the placenta 150 is completely detached from the uterine wall 20, the device 100 is withdrawn by retracting it from the insertion path as depicted in Fig. 4D. The detached placenta 150 is removed along with or immediately after the removal of the device 100. The procedure concludes with an evaluation of the uterine cavity 30 of the uterus 10, either visually or through imaging, to confirm complete removal of the placenta 150 and the absence of any remaining tissue fragments.
[0045] The present disclosure provides a placenta extraction device that offers several advantages over conventional methods. The device comprises a scraper, an elongated member, and a handle, all operatively coupled to enable safe, controlled, and complete removal of the placenta. The structural configuration of the scraper enables effective detachment of the placenta from the uterine wall, while conforming to the anatomical shape of the uterine cavity 30 of the uterus 10. The scraper includes flexible configuration and the sharp edges designed to scoop placenta with minimal mechanical trauma to the endometrium or surrounding tissue. The device reduces patient discomfort, lowers the risk of uterine injury, and improves post-procedural recovery outcomes. The device is easy to use and does not require an experienced medical practitioner.
[0046] The scope of the invention is only limited by the appended patent claims. More generally, those skilled in the art will readily appreciate that all parameters, dimensions, materials, and configurations described herein are meant to be exemplary and that the actual parameters, dimensions, materials, and/or configurations will depend upon the specific application or applications for which the teachings of the present invention are used. , C , Claims:We Claim
1. A device (100) for placenta extraction, the device (100) comprising:
a. a scraper (110) disposed at a distal end (100b) of the device (100), the scraper (110) configured to detach and scoop out a placenta from a uterine cavity; and
b. an elongated member (120) coupled to the scraper (110) and configured to guide and position the scraper (110) at a target location of the placenta.
2. The device (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein a peripheral edge (112) of the scraper (110) is sharp.
3. The device (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the scraper (110) comprises a chamfered portion (114) at the peripheral edge (112).
4. The device (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the scraper (110) comprises a proximal section (110c) and a distal section (110d) extending along a longitudinal axis of the device (100);
a. wherein a lateral width of the proximal section (110c) increases axially from a proximal end (110a) to a distal end (100b) of the proximal section (110c); and
b. wherein a lateral width of the distal section (110d) decreases axially from a proximal end (110a) to a distal end (110b) of the distal section (110d).
5. The device (100) as claimed in claim 4, wherein a maximum lateral width (W) of the scraper (110) at a boundary of the proximal section (110c) and the distal section (110d) ranges from 90 mm to 100 mm.
6. The device (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the scraper (110) comprises a top surface (113) has one of: concave or flat profile.
7. The device (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein a thickness of the scraper (110) decreases radially from a central region (110e) of the scraper (110) towards the peripheral edge of the scraper (110).
8. The device (100) as claimed in claim 6, wherein the thickness of the scraper (110) at the center (110e) ranges from 0.8 mm to 2 mm, and the thickness of the peripheral edge (112) of the scraper (110) ranges from 0.01 mm to 0.5 mm.
9. The device (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the elongated member (120) is flexible.
10. The device (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the device (100) is made of a biocompatible material comprising polypropylene (PP), acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS), polyethylene, polyurethane or combinations thereof.
11. The device (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the device (100) comprises a handle (130) coupled to a proximal end (120a) of the elongated member (120).
12. The device (100) as claimed in claim 10, wherein the handle (130) comprises a ring (131) having an aperture (131b).
| # | Name | Date |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | 202521082081-STATEMENT OF UNDERTAKING (FORM 3) [29-08-2025(online)].pdf | 2025-08-29 |
| 2 | 202521082081-REQUEST FOR EXAMINATION (FORM-18) [29-08-2025(online)].pdf | 2025-08-29 |
| 3 | 202521082081-REQUEST FOR EARLY PUBLICATION(FORM-9) [29-08-2025(online)].pdf | 2025-08-29 |
| 4 | 202521082081-FORM-9 [29-08-2025(online)].pdf | 2025-08-29 |
| 5 | 202521082081-FORM FOR SMALL ENTITY(FORM-28) [29-08-2025(online)].pdf | 2025-08-29 |
| 6 | 202521082081-FORM FOR SMALL ENTITY [29-08-2025(online)].pdf | 2025-08-29 |
| 7 | 202521082081-FORM 18 [29-08-2025(online)].pdf | 2025-08-29 |
| 8 | 202521082081-FORM 1 [29-08-2025(online)].pdf | 2025-08-29 |
| 9 | 202521082081-FIGURE OF ABSTRACT [29-08-2025(online)].pdf | 2025-08-29 |
| 10 | 202521082081-EVIDENCE FOR REGISTRATION UNDER SSI(FORM-28) [29-08-2025(online)].pdf | 2025-08-29 |
| 11 | 202521082081-EVIDENCE FOR REGISTRATION UNDER SSI [29-08-2025(online)].pdf | 2025-08-29 |
| 12 | 202521082081-DRAWINGS [29-08-2025(online)].pdf | 2025-08-29 |
| 13 | 202521082081-DECLARATION OF INVENTORSHIP (FORM 5) [29-08-2025(online)].pdf | 2025-08-29 |
| 14 | 202521082081-COMPLETE SPECIFICATION [29-08-2025(online)].pdf | 2025-08-29 |
| 15 | Abstract.jpg | 2025-09-09 |
| 16 | 202521082081-Proof of Right [09-09-2025(online)].pdf | 2025-09-09 |
| 17 | 202521082081-FORM-26 [10-09-2025(online)].pdf | 2025-09-10 |