Patent ID: 8038623
Filing Date: 2011-10-18
Classification: A61B,A61M

Abstract:
1. An apparatus for performing an in-vivo calibration of a blood pressure sensor that is associated with a balloon of an in-vivo balloon system, comprising: a drive unit configured to control at least one of an inflation state and a deflation state of the balloon, the control comprising slowing a normal inflation and/or deflation process associated with cardiac assist such that the balloon transitions through a state in which a gas pressure in the balloon system is indicative of a patient's blood pressure without suspending the inflation or deflation of the balloon; and a processing unit configured to monitor the patient's blood pressure by observing the gas pressure in the balloon system while simultaneously monitoring the patient's blood pressure through the sensor, and configured to use the blood pressure readings obtained by monitoring the gas pressure to correct the blood pressure measurements obtained through the sensor.