Any medical procedure faced by an adult is so much more frightening when faced by a child. One invention hopes to remove the fear. Healthcast Reporter Janet Wu has more.
One of the most traumatic procedures involves sedating a child for treatment. Sedating a child isn't painful, but it's usually traumatic.
Dr. Geoffrey Hart, Anesthesiology Associates
"I think it's hard for parents, it's hard for health professionals and it's particularly hard for kids."
Boston anesthesiologist Geoffrey Hart got an idea and consulted Newton design firm Continuum.
David Chastain, Continuum
"What this is supposed to look like is a child's toy. A lot of girls wear purple. So we created a blue one and a purple one."
This healthy child has no problem with it. And yes, that is a Game Boy.
It's "Game Boy" compatible, making for the perfect distraction.
Through the headset, the child can hear the sounds of the Game Boy as well as people talking to them, so they never feel isolated. This part fits over the nose, and it's how the nitrous oxide is delivered. The child's mouth is always free.
Despite its looks, this is a serious piece of medical equipment.
Dr. Geoffrey Hart
"The device will also monitor all respiratory functions of the child at the same time."
Dr. Geoffrey Hart
"I'm going to make you look like a fighter pilot, OK?"
The child can simply have fun, without being restrained or forced to deal with masks, machines and tubes.
This device is currently being tested to sedate children - not put them under. It's for minor surgical procedures, including stitches and resetting broken bones as well as for MRI's.
