PELVIMETER
\pˈɛlva͡ɪmˌiːtə], \pˈɛlvaɪmˌiːtə], \p_ˈɛ_l_v_aɪ_m_ˌiː_t_ə]\
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By Oddity Software
By Noah Webster.
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A barbarous hybrid. This name has been given to different instruments, invented for measuring the diameters of the pelvis, and particularly the antero-posterior or fore-and-aft diameter of the brim: - Pelvimetry, (F.) Pelvimetrie. Two have been chiefly employed, especially by French practitioners:- the Compas depaisseur, and the Pelvimeter of Coutouly. 1. The Compas depaisseur or Callipers of Baudelocque, is formed like a pair of compasses-with blunt extremities-the branches of which can be moved at will. One of these is applied to the symphysis pubis, and the other on the sacrum. About three inches must be deducted from this measurement for the thickness of the mons veneris, pubis, and the base of the sacrum. 2. The Pelvimeter of Coutouly resembles the instruments used by shoemakers for measuring the length of the foot. The two branches are introduced, in a state of approximation, into the vagina, and then separated, so that one touches the promontory of the sacrum, the other comes behind the os pubis. It is a barbarous contrivance, and its introduction ought never to be attempted on the living subject. It does not, indeed, seem possible to introduce it without mischief. The finger is, decidedly, the best pelvimeter, and by it we can judge whether the base of the sacrum be unusually prominent.
By Robley Dunglison
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Instrument for measuring the pelvis.
By Willam Alexander Newman Dorland
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