The printable version is no longer supported and may have rendering errors. Please update your browser bookmarks and please use the default browser print function instead.
FA info icon.svg Angle down icon.svg Medical equipment data
Health topic Maternal mortality
Health classification Preventative
FA info icon.svg Angle down icon.svg Project data
Status Clinical trial
OKH Manifest Download

Problem being addressed

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

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

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

  • Designed by: Nancy Kerr and Mark Hauswald of Global Health Partnerships

Funding Source

Funding is provided by the Gates Foundation's Grand Challenges Initiative, Round 6, on April 6, 2011.

References

Peer-reviewed publication

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

Carr, S. (2011). UNM Investigators receive $100, 000 Grand Challenges Explorations Grant. The University of New Mexico. Link available here.

Externally generated reports

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.

Cookies help us deliver our services. By using our services, you agree to our use of cookies.