Patent ID: 8123760
Filing Date: 2012-02-28
Classification: A61B,A61F

Abstract:
1. A method of preventing or reducing the severity of hemorrhoids in the perianal region of a patient during childbirth, said patient having an anus defining an anal orifice, comprising: providing a device with a securing member, the device having a base with an elongate ridge defining a curved surface extending along a longitudinal axis for a distance greater than a size of said anal orifice, and the base having an edge defining a perimeter, the securing member comprising first and second fastening elements, each extending laterally away from the elongate ridge, each having a length greater than a longitudinal length of the elongate ridge; positioning a curved surface across the anal orifice in a pressure-inducing engagement position against only a perianal region of the patient at the junction between the anal orifice and the anal canal to apply pressure to an external rectal venous plexus with the edge facing a vaginal opening in a manner that provides access to the viginal opening without having to remove the device; and securing the securing member laterally away from the perianal region to the outside of the body of the patient to maintain the curved surface in the engagement position during at least a portion of childbirth.