RU2396899C2 - Mokhov-chaschin's method of obtaining data about cranial tissue state and device for its realisation - Google Patents

Abstract

FIELD: medicine.

SUBSTANCE: invention relates to medicine and medical equipment Impact with pressure on examined parts of head surface is performed by instrumental means Pressure on different parts of head surface is created independently Simultaneously taking place changes of cranial tissues are registered in form of change in pressure which tissues produce onto instrumental means contacting with them Obtained data are transformed by means of spectral method and are presented in form of spectral characteristics of processes relating to different sections of head surface Device for method realisation includes system of volumetric transformation, which consists of fixing bandage and volumetric transformers, connected with composing pneumatic unit respective pressure transformers and units of pressure creation, which ensure independent creation of pressure in air cavities of corresponding to them volumetric transformers Pneumatic unit by means of unit of electric signal transformation is connected with system controlling registration, processing and display of information.

EFFECT: invention extends arsenal of means for obtaining data about cranial tissue state

8 dwg, 1 tbl, 3 ex

Description

The invention relates to medicine and medical equipment, more specifically to diagnostic and therapeutic methods and tools for obtaining data on the status of cranial tissues. The invention can be used in various applications of medical practice, for example, during preventive examinations, for rapid diagnostics and therapy, during manual therapy, in osteopathic medicine, in disaster medicine, in emergency situations, for monitoring the status of operators performing responsible professional duties and in many other situations.

Known methods for obtaining data on the state of the tissues of the head. Among them, an X-ray method for examining the condition of cranial tissues. In specialized X-ray rooms, they examine the internal organs and tissues of the body, analyze the picture of their changes and identify violations of the state of the tissues. So, in particular, the condition of the cranial tissues is also examined. However, the X-ray method provides a picture of the static state of the tissues and has limitations in the possibility of repeating examinations, which is associated with safety requirements for the patient’s health from excessive penetrating radiation, especially when examining the finest formations - head tissues. For safety reasons, radiography is also laborious and expensive.

A known method of obtaining data on the state of the brain, based on electroencephalographic studies. It is carried out by contact removal of bioelectric signals from the surface of the head and analysis of the recorded signals. Electroencephalographic signals reflect the processes and state of electrical activity of the brain. At the same time, the movements of the cranial tissues are accompanied by volumetric changes in the space they occupy, and they mechanically interact with neighboring tissues, including the brain. The movement of cranial tissues explains the manifestation of artifacts in the biosignals of the electrical activity of the brain. However, the electroencephalogram signals themselves do not give quantitative ideas about the volumetric changes in the surrounding cranial tissues.

The closest in technical essence is a method of obtaining data on the status of cranial tissues by palpation examinations. For example, palpation is used when examining the condition of cranial tissues using manual therapy methods and osteopathic medicine. In this case, expert doctors carry out diagnostic and therapeutic effects, using various methods of palpation in different parts of the head [1]. In the examination, doctors perceive their own feelings that arise during the palpation of different parts of the examined tissues. They pay attention and analyze the manifestation of volumetric changes reflecting the condition of the cranial tissues. In particular, they pay attention to: uniformity and softness of tissues (elastic properties); movement of the bones of the skull and mobility in the suture joints; the nature of the amplitude and frequency manifestations of wave processes in the movement of tissues; different manifestations of volumetric changes in symmetrical areas and other factors. The sensations that arise are used to interpret the states and connect them with the ability, the nature of the movements and the harmonic manifestation of the actual movements of the tissues in different palpable areas. Analyzing the totality of sensations that are manually perceived during the examination, they characterize movements only on a qualitative level, assessing the state of the cranial tissues of the patient and the state of the organism associated with it as a whole. Examinations are carried out by palpating different parts of the surface of the head in an alternating sequence. The sequential method of palpation is explained by the limited ability to focus the doctor on analyzing the sensations in the fingers. For this, together with the analysis of perceived sensations, it is necessary to keep in memory the nuances of the entire sequence of palpable examination. In addition, in the course of this work, the doctor also needs to compare perceived sensations, quickly make decisions and plan further actions, in some cases repeating palpations. Therefore, the examination process is time-consuming, lengthy, and the assessment of the results is subjective. In addition, the results of the examination and all the nuances that have arisen, including a subjective assessment of tissue characteristics, do not leave quantitative data, but only are stored in the doctor’s own memory. The results of the work cannot be documented in the form of objective data on the manipulations performed and the physician perceived volumetric changes in the tissues. A significant drawback of the survey results is also that the sensations on the basis of which conclusions are drawn, being subjective, can lead to erroneous conclusions and the appointment of incorrect therapeutic measures. This is fundamentally unacceptable. Another disadvantage is the difficulty of organizing, if necessary, continuous monitoring of the state of tissues and the body, the use of palpable examination techniques. This limits the ability to monitor the dynamics of changes in the state of tissues and, in particular, during various therapeutic procedures, in order to control the dynamics of recovery processes.

The purpose of the invention is to obtain objective, numerical data on the state of cranial tissues, in the form of indicators reflecting volumetric changes in tissues simultaneously recorded in different parts of the head. Another goal is to increase the productivity of examinations through the use of tools and the introduction of automation elements into the work. They are intended for the presentation of objective documentary evidence of the work performed and diagnostic manipulations carried out with the biological object using tools.

The problem is solved as follows.

A method of obtaining data on the state of cranial tissues in mechanical interaction with the examined areas of the head surface is carried out by instrumental means, independently and simultaneously creating controlled pressure on different areas being examined and simultaneously recording signals reflecting volume changes in tissues in these areas, transforming the recorded data, for example, by spectral methods transformations, and as data on the state of cranial tissues, presenting indicators of the converted data and avg. authoritative relations of indicators related to different sites. Volumetric tissue changes are associated with signals of pressure changes created by the examined areas of the head surface on the sensitive elements of the tools in contact with them. The selection of the examined areas of the head surface is carried out according to the principle of functional, or biomechanical interconnection of them with the examined cranial tissues. For example, registrations are carried out from areas of the head surface that are associated with different corresponding bones of the skull, with different sutures of the interosseous joints, or, for example, from areas of the surface of the head in projections of symmetrically located bones, or from areas of the surface of the head in projections of the location of longitudinally opposite bones. Data on the condition of the cranial tissues are obtained, for example, in functional samples that directionally provoke their volume changes. Data on the state of cranial tissues are presented, for example, as indicators of amplitude-frequency characteristics reflecting periodic volumetric changes in simultaneously examined different parts of the head surface.

The main distinguishing feature and useful result of the method is the objectification of studies of the state of the cranial tissues, achieved by independent registration by tools of processes simultaneously occurring in different parts of the head reflecting volumetric changes in tissues. This allows you to analyze and compare among themselves the indicators of the converted data on simultaneously recorded volume changes in the examined areas of the head surface associated with cranial tissues, using objectively recorded data on the pressure created by the tissues on the sensitive elements of the instruments in contact with them. Comparison can be made according to data obtained in various conditions of tissues and the body and, in particular, in response to external influences, or in functional tests that provoke volumetric changes in tissues.

Another distinctive feature and useful result of the method is to obtain data on the condition of the cranial tissues without using palpable examinations. This increases the performance of examinations compared to the manual method.

Another distinctive feature and useful result of the method is the possibility of conducting lengthy studies, which is objectively impossible to carry out by palpation examinations. This allows monitoring studies for a long time, in order to expand the possibilities of obtaining data on the state of cranial tissues and the body. A comparative analysis of objective data obtained from the same patient at different times is important. For example, it is important for monitoring the progress of therapeutic measures or individual procedures, in order to determine the dynamics of the course of recovery processes.

Another distinctive feature and useful result of the method is the ability to use objective data relating to different patients, which is of interest for comparative analysis.

Another distinctive feature and useful result of the method is to obtain data on the condition of the cranial tissues in functional samples, directionally provoking volumetric changes and related movements of the cranial tissues. The characteristics of the recorded processes associated with a volumetric change in tissues are determined by the state of the tissues, or their response to external influences. In this case, a change in the periodicity of the characteristics of volumetric changes in the state of tissues may occur.

In each registration of separately and simultaneously occurring processes associated with volumetric changes in the state of cranial tissues in different areas, including changes initiated by functional tests, there are data related to the state of tissues at current points in time. Their simultaneous and separately conducted registration during analysis allows us to correlate the contribution of individual cranial tissues to the overall reaction. The data obtained from each registration of volumetric changes in the state of cranial tissues, after their processing are presented, for example, by the amplitude-frequency characteristics of pressure changes, which can be analyzed and compared according to objective indicators.

Thus, the method of obtaining data on the state of cranial tissues associated with their volumetric changes due to the simultaneous recording of objective data on pressure changes in different parts of the surface of the head by instrumental tools allows obtaining objective, numerical data on the state of cranial tissues in the form of indicators reflecting volumetric changes tissues and the contribution to the ongoing movements of the cranial tissues, simultaneously recorded in different parts of the head. They can be used as documentary evidence of diagnostic manipulations carried out with a biological object using tools. In addition, the method improves the performance of examinations and allows you to replace palpation of tissues due to the registration of ongoing processes, independently and simultaneously in different parts of the head surface associated with the examined cranial tissues. The method also objectifies the results of examinations by obtaining data by tools, processing data by mathematical methods, presenting the results by numerical indicators and due to the possibility of documenting recorded processes.

The method can be implemented by a device for obtaining data on the status of cranial tissues.

A device for implementing the method consists of a volumetric-metric conversion system fixed on the head, pneumatically connected to a pneumatic unit, connected by an electric signal conversion unit to a control system for recording, processing and presenting information. The volumetric-metric conversion system includes a head bandage and pneumatically unrelated volumetric transducers, each of which is connected to the components of the pneumatic unit by its corresponding pressure transducer and pressure generating unit. The number of transducers in the volumetric-metric conversion system corresponds to the number of examined areas of the head selected to obtain data on them from volumetric changes in the state of cranial tissues. As a fixing dressing, for example, a medical, elastic, tubular bandage is used. The fixing bandage provides clamping and fixing on the head the position of volumetric metric converters. Volumetric-metric transducers take and remove pressure signals associated with the manifestation of volumetric changes in the state of different tissue sites. Volumetric changes are converted into pressure signals in the air cavities of the corresponding volumetric metric transducers. The design of each volumetric metric transducer has an internal air cavity bounded by a hermetically sealed casing and perceiving mechanical stresses by an elastic membrane, and the internal air cavity has a pneumatic outlet. The pressure change in each volumetric transducer is determined by the corresponding change in the position of its elastic membrane. When the pressure on the membrane changes from the side of the head surface contacting with it, the volume of the air cavity of the volumetric transducer accordingly changes, and the pressure in it accordingly changes. By means of the pneumatic terminals of the volumetric transducers, their air cavities are pneumatically connected to the corresponding pressure transducers located in the pneumatic unit. The signals from the pressure transducers control the pressure levels and their changes in the corresponding volumetric metric transducers. Volumetric transducers perform a dual purpose. Namely, through elastic membranes of volumetric-metric transducers, pressure is transmitted and independently controlled in each of them, directed to parts of the head surface in contact with the membranes. In addition, each volumetric-metric transducer perceives volumetric changes and the associated changes in pressure acting on elastic membranes from the part of the head surface that is in contact with them.

Together with the pressure transducers in the pneumatic unit there are corresponding pressure generating units connected to them, which provide independent pressure generation in the air cavities of the corresponding volumetric transducers.

Patent studies did not reveal technical solutions with features similar in features that distinguish the claimed solution from the prototype. Therefore, the proposed technical solution meets the criterion of "significant differences".

The essence of the invention is illustrated by the drawings.

Figure 1 - block diagram of a device for implementing the method. Figure 2 is an example of the placement and fixation on the head of a volumetric-metric conversion system composed of a fixing bandage and volumetric-metric converters. Figure 3 is a design variant of a volumetric-metric transducer. Figure 4 - embodiments of the block creating pressure. Figure 5-8 - power density spectra of pressure changes in volumetric metric transducers under various conditions and conditions of cranial tissues and the body.

The device comprises a volumetric-metric conversion system 1 composed of headbands 2 and volumetric transducers 3 fixed on the head, pneumatically connected to their respective pressure transducers 5 and pressure generating units 6 constituting a pneumatic unit 4, electrically connected via an electric signal conversion unit 7 with system 8 control, registration, processing and presentation of information.

As a headband 2, for example, a medical, elastic, tubular bandage is used.

The design of each volumetric transducer 3 includes hermetically closing its internal air cavity 9, the housing 10 with an elastic membrane 11 and has a pneumatic outlet 12 from the air cavity 9. The pneumatic outlet 12 of each volumetric transducer 3 is pneumatically connected to its corresponding located in the pneumatic unit 4 by a pressure transducer 5 and a pressure generating unit 6. As the design of the volumetric-metric transducer 3, for example, a stethoscopic head housing 10 with an elastic membrane 11 and a pneumatic outlet 12 is used. Stethoscopic heads of this design are usually used to listen to Korotkov tones when measuring blood pressure, and they can be borrowed to implement the method.

Pneumoblock 4 is designed to create excess pressure in the air cavities 9 of the volumetric-metric transducers 3 and to convert the pressure in them into the corresponding electrical signals.

For this, pressure transducers 5 are used, pneumatically connected to the terminals of the corresponding volumetric metric transducers 3 included in the pneumatic unit 4. Pressure transducers 5 convert pressure levels into electrical signals. Through these signals, the pressure in the air cavities 9 of the volumetric transducers 3 is monitored and recorded, including changes caused by volumetric changes in tissues in response to the pressure exerted by the pressure generating units 6.

The pressure generating units 6 are typical and can be made based on known solutions. The choice of options for their execution may be associated with technical requirements for the level of automation of the device. For example, in an embodiment involving the operation in the manual mode of creating pressure in the volumetric transducers 3, the pressure in them is created by pressure generating units 6, including a manual pneumatic supercharger 13 (bulb) with an air release and pressure relief mechanism 14. This design of pressure generating units 6 is the simplest. With their help, the necessary pressure is created manually, independently in the air cavity of each volumetric transducer 3 and without external electrical control.

The device can be used to operate in automatic pressure generation mode in volumetric transducers 3. In this embodiment, pressure generating units 6 are composed, for example, of known pneumatic components of pneumatic automation: compressors 15 and pneumatic valves 16. Each compressor 15 of pressure generating unit 6 creates pressure in volumetric -metric converter with controlled supply to him and the pneumatic valve 16 of the control electrical signals. The pneumatic valve 16 provides an electrically controlled pressure relief when a corresponding control voltage is applied to its winding.

Block 7 converting electrical signals is intended for analog-to-digital conversion of electrical signals received from pressure transducers 5 and transmitting digital data to block 8 for controlling, recording, processing and presenting information. Block 7 converting electrical signals is also designed to coordinate the level of control signals transmitted through it from the control unit 8 to the pressure generating units 6 used in the automatic control of creating pressure.

The control unit 8, registration, processing and presentation of information is intended to collect digital data received from the electric signal conversion unit 7, and to generate pressure generation control signals, which are used in the automatic control of pressure generation units 6. In block 8, in accordance with the specified algorithm, a sequence of control signals is generated, the processes of changing the registered signals are visually presented, the received information is processed, and data is accumulated in the storage device. As block 8 of the control, registration, processing and presentation of information can be used various options, built on the basis of well-known solutions. For example, a personal computer may be used.

In the manual mode of creating pressure in the volumetric transducers 3, the control units 6 create pressure without control signals from the control unit 8. In this mode, the control unit 8, for example, a personal computer, is used only for recording, storing and displaying pressure signals in the volumetric transducers 3 on the monitor screen. The doctor sets the required pressure manually in each volumetric transducer using pneumosuperchargers 13 with mechanisms 14 air release and pressure relief, at its sole discretion, creating, observing and controlling their changes according to the signals on the computer screen.

In the automatic method of creating the required pressure levels in the volumetric-metric transducers 3, the operation of the pressure generating units 6 is controlled by the unit 8 for controlling, recording, processing and presenting information. When working in it, signals are generated that control the on and off power of the compressors 15 and control the operation of the pneumatic valves 16, in accordance with a given sequence of pressure changes in the volumetric transducers 3.

A method of obtaining data on the status of cranial tissues is as follows.

First, before recording signals, prepare the system 1 volumetric metric conversion. To do this, using the fixing bandage 2, the position of the volumetric transducers 3 is fixed on the head of the examined biological object, placing them in the space between the bandage and the sections of the head surface selected for registration and ensuring the contact of the membranes 11 with the head surface. As the fixing bandage 2, for example, a medical, elastic, tubular, mesh bandage is used, which is usually used to fix medical preparations. If necessary, to increase the force of the initial clamp volumetric transducers to the surface of the head can be used two or more bandages placed one on top of the other. The number of volumetric-metric transducers 3 constituting the volumetric-metric transformation system 1 is set in accordance with the number of sections of the surface of the bioobject’s head selected to pick up signals reflecting volumetric changes in the state of cranial tissues. The location of the set of volumetric-metric transducers 6 allows you to simultaneously examine, for example, the state and processes in different critical structures of the head tissue: paired with different bones (temporal, frontal, occipital and other bones), paired with areas of interosseous joints (sutures) and corresponding muscles, symmetrical areas of head tissue and many others. Isolation by registration of harmonic processes of volumetric changes in cranial tissues, mobility restrictions and range of motion are important diagnostic tasks. Each volumetric metric transducer 3 is connected pneumatically with the terminals of the corresponding pressure transducer 5 and the pressure generating unit 6 constituting the pneumatic unit 4. In turn, the outputs of the pressure transducers 5 are connected to the corresponding electrical inputs of the signal converting unit 7, in which, in particular, analog-to-digital conversion of input signals and transmission of digitized data to a personal computer. The corresponding electrical terminals of the signal conversion unit 7 and the inputs of the pressure generating units 6 are connected, making it possible to work in the automatic pressure generation control mode.

Then, in block 8 of the control, registration, processing and presentation of information, namely, on the personal computer used for this, a specialized computer program for recording multi-channel recording of electrical signals is launched. Under program control, current changes in the signals from the outputs of pressure transducers 4 representing pressure changes in volumetric transducers 3 are recorded and displayed on a computer monitor screen in real time. In addition, the program provides for storing digital data of recorded processes in a computer storage device. Observing the recorded pressure signals on the screen of the monitor using the pressure generating units 6, the initial pressure is set sequentially and independently in each volumetric transducer 3, for example, in the pressure range 4-7 mm Hg. After this, the preparation for the operation of the system 1 volumetric metric conversion is completed. Now the device can register processes that reflect the volumetric state of tissues, in accordance with different plans and research protocols.

So, the continuation of the signal recording that has already been turned on or the inclusion of new registration records will lead to the display on the monitor screen of the corresponding current changes in pressure levels in volumetric transducers. These changes are associated with volumetric changes in the state of cranial tissues. The registrations reflect the existing state of the cranial tissues and are due, moreover, to the correspondingly created experimental conditions acting on the body.

In one of the many possible research sequences, as is usually used, for example, during functional tests, registration is carried out in accordance with a protocol that includes three stages.

For example, first, a background state is recorded in which external influences on various body systems are excluded. Then the registration is carried out in the process of functional tests. And, finally, registration is carried out during the aftereffect, which reflects a change in the state of tissues and the body in the process of establishing a state after a functional test. Among functional tests, for example, respiratory, orthostatic, and the like tests are used, which purposefully provoke volume changes in the state of cranial tissues due to changes in blood circulation conditions and the state of blood supply to tissues. In addition, as external influences on the cranial tissues, constant pressure levels on selected areas of the head surface from the side of volumetric transducers can be changed 3. The recording data collection can be carried out for a long time also without creating external influences on the cranial tissues, in order to continuously monitor their condition under the same conditions.

Work with the device can be carried out both in manual and automatic mode of creating pressure in volumetric transducers 3, depending on the design of blocks 6 for creating pressure. In this case, the creation of pressure in the air cavities of the volumetric-metric transducers 3 in manual mode allows you to use a simplified version of the blocks 6 create pressure. This option is preferable both for research work, and for practicing teaching methods and training skills. Manual operation is provided by pressure generating units 6, made up, for example, of pressure sources made in the form of manual pneumatic superchargers 13 with air release and pressure relief mechanisms 14. Blocks 6 for creating pressure built on such an elemental base are used, for example, in simple, manual or semi-automatic sphygmomanometers designed to measure blood pressure, with which the pressure in the occlusal cuff is created manually (with a pear). Similarly, in a device that implements a method of obtaining data on the condition of the cranial tissues, when operating in manual pressure generation mode, using pneumosuperchargers 13 with air release and pressure relief mechanisms 14, manually set the necessary pressure levels in volumetric transducers 3.

To create pressure in the air cavities 9 of the volumetric transducers 3 in automatic control mode, compressors 15 and pneumatic valves 16 are used as the pressure generating unit 6. The automatic mode is preferable for working according to the established techniques. In this case, the required pressure levels in the volumetric transducers 3, as an acting factor on the cranial tissue, are created in automatic mode. In controlling the operation of compressors 15 and pneumatic valves 16, commands are used that are generated by a given computer program that implements an automatic control mode in accordance with the inspection algorithm and is entered, for example, in the preset settings of the recording program.

Software control of signal recording and data collection is built, for example, on the program "Measurement and Automation Explorer" (a software product of National Instruments) for a personal computer that provides additional functionality. In addition to registering signals in accordance with a preliminary installation, the program generates a sequence of control commands transmitted in the form of signals to external devices. The law of pressure change, the level of pressure, the sequence of pressure changes and the duration is entered before the studies in the settings of the control program. Command control signals according to the program are supplied to the pressure generating unit 6. They include compressors 15 and pneumatic valves 16, with an automatic method of creating pressure in volumetric transducers 3.

In manual operation mode, control commands by the operation of pressure generating units 6 are not used. In this case, the doctor sets any changes in pressure on different parts of the head surface at his own discretion, by means of volumetric transducers 3, in the process of recordings that make it possible to control the pressure levels in them. In this mode, only registration of pressure signals in volumetric-metric converters is automatically carried out, as in the automatic mode of operation. Manual pneumatic superchargers 13 pump air in the air cavities 9 of volumetric transducers 3, creating the required pressure levels. The pressure on the selected parts of the head is controlled by visually observing on the monitor screen a recording recording of electrical signals from the output of the pressure transducers 5. Various examining levels of pressure on the cranial tissues are created and pressure changes are recorded that reflect the volumetric changes in the tissues in these areas, and in particular, in response to the effect.

After carrying out the studies, the recording recording of the signals is stopped and the received data is saved. The pressure in the volumetric transducers 3 discharge. As a result of the planned studies, digital data on volume changes in the state of tissues are registered. They are stored in a computer storage device and are used in subsequent processing by program-mathematical methods, in order to analyze the results and interpret the state of cranial tissues.

Analysis of recorded data on processes that reflect volume changes in the state of cranial tissues in different areas is carried out on the basis of their processing, for example, by spectral conversion of data from recorded processes of pressure changes, determination of amplitude-frequency characteristics and comparison of indicators related to different parts of the head surface, with which the registration. In this case, both data obtained in the absence of external influences on the cranial tissues and obtained under various influences, for example, during functional tests, or in combination with other possible options for providing test effects on the body that affect the volumetric changes in the state of the cranial tissues, can be used.

An analysis of the results of data processing, for example, by the method of spectral transformations, allows one to use its amplitude-frequency indicators to characterize processes that reflect volumetric state changes. According to the converted data, for example, from the calculated spectra of power densities, peaks are distinguished, amplitudes, peak frequencies and frequency ranges corresponding to the selected peaks are determined, peak amplitude ratios and other frequency indicators are determined. These results are objective data, and they reflect the condition of the cranial tissues.

The application of the method is illustrated by examples 1-4, describing the acquisition of data on different conditions of cranial tissues, which are associated with their volumetric changes.

General research information. A series of investigative registrations was carried out on a volunteer, of a normosthenic (normocostal) type of physique, which does not have serious health complaints. Objective data: age - 47 years, height 173 cm, weight 63 kg, range of heart rate changes - 55-65 beats / min (determined in an independent electrocardiographic study), chest breathing rate 10-14 excursions / min, head perimeter, in the girth of the nape, temporal and frontal sections - 53 cm. The device for obtaining data on the condition of the cranial tissues is composed of a volumetric-metric transformation system, including a fixative, medical, head bandage (elastic, tubular, latex-polyester bandage No. 5) and four od different volumetric metric converter. Prefabricated stethoscopic heads of stethoscopes intended for listening to Korotkov tones during blood pressure measurements were borrowed as volumetric-metric transducers. The surface of the joints of the elastic membranes and the housings of the stethoscopic heads during assembly are coated with a sealant to ensure the tightness of the air cavities of the volumetric transducers. The diameter of the membranes of volumetric-metric transducers, which determines the area of the areas of interaction with the surface of the head, is 42 mm. When signals were recorded, volumetric-metric transducers were located on different parts of the head surface.

The pneumatic terminals of the volumetric-metric transducers are connected by pneumatic tubes to the corresponding pressure transducers and pressure generating units. Four pressure transmitters MPX-5050DP (manufactured by Motorolla) were used as pressure transducers. To study the condition of cranial tissues, a manual mode of creating pressure in the air cavities of volumetric-metric transducers was chosen, since it is preferable for general examinations and analysis of conditions. Accordingly, four manual pneumosuperchargers (pears) with air release mechanisms and quick-release valves were used as pressure generating units. As a control unit, registration, processing and presentation of information used a personal computer (notebook from Samsung), with built-in PCMCIA port. As a signal conversion unit, the DAQCard-6036E 16-bit analog-to-digital converter board installed in the PCMCIA port of the computer and the SCB-68-pin Shielded signal conversion unit connected to it by an appropriate connection cable are used by National Instruments. The electrical terminals of the pressure transducers are connected to the corresponding inputs of the SCB-68 electrical signal conversion unit.

For registration and observation on the computer screen of processes with recording pressure signals in the air cavities of volumetric-metric converters, the computer-based signal recording program “Measurement and Automation Explorer” (a software product of National Instruments) was used. The signal polling frequency is set to 100 Hz. Processing of data obtained during registration was carried out using the software package MatLab 6.5.

Example 1. Obtaining data on the condition of cranial tissues in the background, initial state of the body, without special external influences.

The initial and subsequent, during the registration process, the position of the volunteer during the study is relaxed, sitting on a chair, the position of the head is neutral; the neck muscles are not tense. Plots of location on the head of volumetric-metric converters (No. 1-4) are indicated in the table.

Table Volume Metric Converter No. The location of the volumetric-metric transducer on the surface of the head one Glabella [1] 2 Bregma [1] 3 Projection of the right fronto-wedge-shaped suture [1] four Projection of the left fronto-wedge-shaped suture [1]

Turning on the personal computer, we launched the Measurement and Automation Explorer signal recording program. In the process of recording pressure recordings, using appropriate manual pneumatic blowers with air release mechanisms and relief valves, a pressure level in the range of 4–7 mm Hg was set in the volumetric-metric transducers. Then, pressure signals in volumetric-metric transducers were recorded for 3 min, observing their change on the computer monitor screen. After completing the study, the registration was stopped and the data recorded by the Measurement and Automation Explorer program, with pressure signal recordings, were stored in the corresponding file of the computer’s storage device for the purpose of documenting and subsequent processing of the results by program-mathematical methods.

Figure 5 shows the spectra of power densities (PSD) changes in pressure signals in the air cavities of volumetric metric converters. Spectra (figure 5) are denoted by the corresponding corresponding volumetric-metric transducers - No. 1-4 (table). The spectra are calculated from the recorded data by processing them with the MatLab 6.5 program, using the fast Fourier transform algorithm, with a resolution of 4096 counts. The vertical axes of the spectra show the digitized marks of the PSD values, mmHg ² / Hz, along the axes of abscissa - frequency marks, Hz. Each spectrum contains peaks reflecting the harmonic components of the manifestation of recorded volumetric-variable processes that simultaneously occurred in the corresponding locations of the volumetric-metric sensors. In a comparative examination of the spectra presented, they distinguish both similar features and differences, the joint analysis of which allows us to interpret the state of cranial tissues and the body. For example, in all spectra (Fig. 5), a peak is distinguished in a frequency band of about 1 Hz (hereinafter, it is conventionally designated as high-frequency - HF). The frequency position of the HF peak corresponds to a repetition rate of about 60 cycles / min. Obviously, the frequency band associated with the selected peaks can be interpreted as corresponding to the range of heart rhythm changes of 55-65 beats / min, determined in a preliminary independent study of heart rate. Moreover, from the data recorded by volumetric transducers No. 1 and 2, the spectral peaks in the HF region are more pronounced in comparison with peaks in other frequency bands. The amplitudes of the peaks in the region of 1 Hz, obtained from the data recorded by the volumetric transducers No. 3 and 4, are comparable with the amplitudes of the peaks in other frequency ranges, and they are not dominant in the spectra. In addition to the marked HF peaks, a peak in the frequency range of about 0.1 Hz (LF1), which is characteristic of low-frequency, slow-wave processes in tissues, is also distinguished in all spectra. It can be assumed that the peaks in the region of LF1– are a manifestation of the Traube-Goering-Mayer waves, or in the interpretation of the craniosacral phenomenon — the primary respiratory mechanism [1]. According to the results of processing the data obtained by sensors No. 1-4, the difference between the magnitudes of the amplitudes of the peaks in this region and their relations with the amplitudes of the peaks of the RF components of volume-variable processes in the tissues is distinguished. This explains the different nature of the manifestation of volumetric changes in selected areas of the head, which is associated with the corresponding state of the cranial tissues associated with them. In addition to the distinguished features of the nature of the spectra obtained from the data recorded by volumetric transducers No. 3 and No. 4, there is a correspondence in them of the positions of the frequencies of the peaks in different frequency bands (see identical marks in FIG. 5). This indicates the manifestation of identical corresponding periodic volumetric-variable processes in the symmetric areas of the location of volumetric transducers No. 3 and No. 4 and a comparison of the amplitudes of the peaks may have diagnostic value.

Example 2. Obtaining data on the state of cranial tissues during orthostatic functional test.

Initial position. Volumetric-metric transducers are located on the same parts of the head surface and the study was carried out under the same technical conditions as in Example 1. The processes occurring during a functional test were recorded after 15 s, after the change in the location of the test person, with his transition from a sitting position to a calm position - lying on your back. This functional breakdown intentionally changes the hydrostatic condition of the tissue position, the state of exchange and redistribution of fluid in the body and organs, and is reflected in the volume-variable state of the cranial tissues.

In Fig.6, as in Fig.5, four SPM spectra of changes in pressure signals in the air cavities of volumetric-metric converters No. 1-4 are shown. Spectra (Fig.6) are obtained from recorded data in the position of the test subject lying on his back. In comparison with the described spectra (example 1), a clear change in volume-variable processes in cranial tissues is manifested. All spectra show a decrease in the position of the frequency of the HF peak to the level corresponding to the pulse, 56 beats / min. Changing the vertical arrangement of the body to horizontal in a calm state, as a rule, leads to a decrease in the activity of the heart. All spectra also show a more pronounced manifestation of peaks in the frequency range of about 0.25 Hz, interpreted as a manifestation of respiratory (slow) waves (LF2), about 15 cycles / min. In addition, in spectra Nos. 3 and 4, there is a change in the amplitude of the peaks in the regions of the HF and LF1 components. Thus, the study determines the change in the state of cranial tissues and the body due to the reaction to a change in body position compared to the background volume-variable state.

Example 3. Obtaining data on the condition of cranial tissues during a functional test, provoking a change in their blood supply.

Initial position. Volumetric-metric transducers are located on the same parts of the head surface and the study was carried out under the same technical conditions as in example 1. The sample was taken from the initial, vertical position of the volunteer, standing, legs shoulder width apart, with the transition to the forward inclined position of the body, head and the arms are lowered below the waist, the muscles of the shoulders and neck are relaxed. The processes occurring during the functional test were recorded after 15 s, following the slope, and the volunteer remained in this position for 3 minutes, during the entire period of signal recording.

In Fig. 7, as in Fig. 5, four SPM spectra of changes in pressure signals in the air cavities of volumetric-metric transducers No. 1-4 are shown. The spectra were calculated from the recorded data during a functional test, provoking a change in the conditions of blood supply to the cranial tissues. In all spectra in the frequency range 0.1–0.4 Hz, the manifestation of a complex of high-amplitude, slow-wave components of volume-variable processes in tissues dominates. Their peaks have the same frequencies for all spectra and occupy the same bands (see the marks on the spectra). They are due to the same general conditions created for all cranial tissues of the head, under which the influx substantially prevails over the outflow of blood. This, probably, caused similar slow wave processes that increase the level of their blood supply. The spectra distinguish the amplitudes of the peaks of the LF1 and LF2 wave components of the processes. At the same time, the peaks of the HF components of volume-variable processes in cranial tissues, although they appear in spectral lines in the region of about 1 Hz, here they appear as low-intensity processes. In spectrum No. 2, along with the manifestation of slow-wave components (LF1- and LF2-), their harmonics are also present. In the spectra No. 1, No. 3 and No. 4, the RF component is weakly manifested. In spectrum No. 1, this component is significantly less in comparison with its manifestation in examples 1 and 2. This demonstrates a decrease in the pulsating nature of the influx into the corresponding tissues.

Example 4. Obtaining data on the condition of the cranial tissues in a functional test with closing the eyes.

Initial position. Volumetric-metric transducers are located in the same areas and the study was carried out under the same technical conditions as in Example 1. The registration of processes occurring during a functional test was carried out 15 seconds after closing the eyes for the entire recording period. This functional test directionally changes the state of neuronal activity of the systems of the visual and apparatus of the vestibular analyzers, affects the state of respiration, blood circulation of the brain and leads to a change in the volume-variable state of the cranial tissues.

In Fig. 8, as in Fig. 5, four SPM spectra of changes in pressure signals in the air cavities of volumetric-metric transducers No. 1-4 are shown. They are calculated from data recorded during a functional test with closing the eyes. In spectrum No. 1, the peak of HF - is significantly distinguished, although LF1 and LF2 components are also present. The amplitudes of these peaks are more than an order of magnitude lower than the amplitude of the RF peak. In spectrum No. 2, a larger number of peaks appears in comparison with spectrum No. 1, and the amplitudes of these peaks are the same in order of magnitude. Among them, together with the HF, LF1, and LF2 peaks, the components of their second harmonics are also distinguished. At the same time, in spectra No. 3 and No. 4: the slow-wave components of the processes, lower than 0.2 Hz, dominate (the amplitude of their peaks is an order of magnitude greater than in the range above 0.2 Hz); the peak of the RF component is weakly manifested; there is a coincident position of the frequencies of the peaks characterizing the symmetry of the state of the corresponding structures of the right and left halves of the cranial tissue sites.

Thus, a comparative analysis of the spectra (examples 1-4) shows that, based on the recorded and processed data, differing frequency characteristics appear, reflecting the corresponding volume changes in different areas of the head being examined. They allow us to analyze the contribution of different cranial tissues and their ratios in the general manifestation of volume changes in the state and can be interpreted by corresponding processes that reflect the state of cranial tissues and the body. Data on the state of cranial tissues, presented in the form of spectra, are characterized by corresponding indicators: peak frequencies, frequency bands including these peaks, absolute peak values and their ratio in the indicated HF, LF1, LF2 and other spectral regions. The values of these indicators can be analyzed on the basis of ideas about known periodic processes in the body and cranial tissues, which is important for the purposes of diagnosis and monitoring the status of cranial tissues.

The data obtained are objective, as they were carried out during the creation of appropriate controlled conditions affecting the body and tissues and by recording processes that reflect a volumetric-variable state in different parts of the cranial tissues. Therefore, the obtained data can be used in relevant studies, for example, in functional tests, directed provoking changes, in order to analyze the condition and identify violations.

The method objectively records pressure changes reflecting volumetric changes in tissues. They are responsible for the internal and external manifestations of tissue movements, their displacements, redistribution of liquid media, elastic-viscous interactions of neighboring tissues and substances of the vascular systems and the surrounding tissues. Obtaining data about them is of interest for the analysis of the condition of cranial tissues for diagnosis and therapy.

The implementation of the method allows you to control the condition of the cranial tissues during therapeutic measures by recording data reflecting their volumetric changes at different times. The stored registration data is an objective documentary evidence of diagnostic manipulations carried out with a biological object using tools. These registrations can be used for analysis by comparatively evaluating state changes and, in addition, for assessing the progress of therapeutic measures, in resolving controversial issues of insurance medicine, as well as for training purposes.

Thus, the method of obtaining data on the condition of the cranial tissues provides objective, numerical data on the state of the cranial tissues, in the form of indicators reflecting volumetric changes in tissues simultaneously recorded in different parts of the head. The method improves the productivity of examinations by using tools and introducing automation elements into the work. The use of technical means allows you to document the manipulations made, objectifying the results of the work.

References

1. Novoseltsev S.V. Introduction to osteopathy. Cranial diagnostics and correction technique. // St. Petersburg, Tome, 2007.

Claims (3)

1. A method of obtaining data on the state of cranial tissues, including applying pressure to the examined parts of the head surface using tools, characterized in that the pressure is created independently on different parts of the head surface, and simultaneously occurring changes in the volume of cranial tissues in the form of pressure changes that create tissue on the tools in contact with them, the obtained data are converted by the spectral method and presented in the form of spectral characteristics processes related to different parts of the surface of the head. 2. The device for implementing the method according to claim 1, comprising a volumetric-metric conversion system consisting of a retaining bandage and volumetric-metric transducers connected to the corresponding air pressure transducers and pressure generating units providing independent pressure generation in the air cavities corresponding to them -metric converters, and the pneumatic unit through the unit for converting electrical signals is connected to the registration control system, about processing and presentation of information. 3. The device according to claim 2, characterized in that the number of volumetric metric transducers corresponds to the number of examined sections of cranial tissues.

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