Problem being addressed[edit | edit source]
Postpartum hemorrhage is one of the leading causes of maternal mortality in low-resource settings. The CAPP (Tire/Pressure Circumferential Abdominal-Pelvic Pressure) device is a simple contraption made of basic, local materials such as bike tires that aims to control postpartum hemorrhage by reducing blood flow to the pelvic organs.
Detailed description of the solution[edit | edit source]
The CAPP device consists of three mountain bike tubes that are tied around a woman's waist and legs and function to restrict blood from flowing to the uterus of the hemorrhaging woman. One tube is placed around each leg and one on the lower abdomen/pelvic area. Each tube is then secured tightly with sheets. A bike pump is used to inflate the tire tubes, which apply direct pressure to restrict blood flow to the pelvic area.
Describe its relevance for resource-constrained settings[edit | edit source]
The CAPP device is especially useful in low-income, resource-constrained settings for several reasons. It is comprised of rudimentary materials such as a bike pump, bicycle inner tubes, and sheets that can be easily obtained. It does not rely upon an electrical source. It is also inexpensive, portable, and highly effective.
Designed by[edit | edit source]
- Designed by: Nancy Kerr and Mark Hauswald of Global Health Partnerships
Funding Source[edit | edit source]
Funding is provided by the Gates Foundation's Grand Challenges Initiative, Round 6, on April 6, 2011.
References[edit | edit source]
Peer-reviewed publication[edit | edit source]
Hauswald, M., & Williamson M. R., & Gillian, B. M., & Kerr, N. L., & Edgar-Mied, V. L. (2010). Use of an improvised pneumatic anti-shock garment and a non-pneumatic anti-shock garment to control pelvic flow. International Journal of Emergency Medicine, 3(3), 173-175.
Other internally generated reports[edit | edit source]
Carr, S. (2011). UNM Investigators receive $100, 000 Grand Challenges Explorations Grant. The University of New Mexico. Link available here.
Externally generated reports[edit | edit source]
Davis, M. (2011). Local Docs Win $100,000 Grant for Life Saving Device. Watch Newspapers. Link available here.
Grand Challenges in Global Health. (2011). Grand Challenges Explorations Grants. Link available here.