Methods and devices for collecting body fluids
OwnerDenise H. Millerinventor
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Abstract
The present invention comprises methods and devices for collection of fluids, including cells and cellular materials, from the uterus. A device of the present invention comprises a central tubing member to which, at least, a flexible tubing member and an absorbable member are connected at least at one point. The absorbable member is connected to at least one portion of the central tubing member and to at least one portion of the flexible tubing member. The devices of the present invention are useful in methods of collection of uterine fluids, including blood, cells and cellular material.
Claims14
A method for collecting and retaining uterine fluids, comprising:
- a) providing an intrauterine device in a compressed state to an intrauterine cavity of a mammal, the intrauterine device comprising:
- a central tubing member comprising a proximal end and a distal end, wherein the proximal end has at least one opening and the distal end is closed;
- a flexible tubing member connected to the central tubing member in a region near the proximal end of the central tubing member;
- and
- an absorbent member attached along the length of the flexible tubing member,
- wherein the compressed state of the intrauterine device comprises the flexible tubing member and the absorbent member in close proximity or wrapped around the central tubing member;
- b) maintaining the intrauterine device within the intrauterine cavity for more than one day to collect and retain uterine fluids within a reservoir portion located inside the central tubing member.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.