Abstract: An orthopedic precast comprises a knitted shell portion and a knitted flexible portion. The precast is positioned about a limb or other mold, and heat or other hardening agent is used to harden the shell portion, while retaining flexibility in the flexible portion. Contemplated hardening agents include light, heat, and chemical polymerizing agents. In some embodiments the shell portion includes threads or yarns comprising a thermoplastic, which is then hardened by heating the thermoplastic sufficiently to at least partially melt, and thereby fuse together some of the threads or yarns, and then cooling to ambient temperature. In other embodiments, the precast is contained in a bag or other airtight container, along with a self-heating composition that is triggered to release heat upon contact with oxygen. In still other embodiments, the precast includes a prepolymer of other polymerizable composition, which is polymerized by effective application of light, heat, and/or chemical agent(s).

Abstract: A device for delivering air or other gas into the area of a skin fold in order to dry the skin and thereby prevent the development of inflammation, rash, or infection features an air manifold that connects to an air or pressurized gas source. The manifold delivers air to a distribution layer, which then distributes air along the length of the skin fold when the layer is within the fold. The distribution layer is formed of a gauze material, with a plurality of tubular longitudinal sections of gauze connected by flat sections of gauze. The distribution layer is fitted between a top and bottom half of the manifold, held fast by spikes extending from within the halves.

Abstract: A conformable and reconfigurable orthosis is provided. The conformable and reconfigurable orthosis comprises a central core metallic wire resistive heating element, an electrically insulating layer such as glass fiber or nylon fiber, and a structural layer of carbon fiber composites. The conformable and reconfigurable orthosis further comprises a thermal insulation and/or a skin compatible cushioning layer.

Abstract: Described is a venting device including a flexible outer covering defining an outer surface and an inner surface, a set of helicoidal venting strips, and a set of helicoidal buffers. The outer covering has a first end and a second end and a longitudinal axis therebetween. Each venting strip is anchored to the inner surface and extends substantially between the first end and the second end and the set of venting strips is arranged substantially helicoidal and defines a set of helicoidal seams therebetween. The set of helicoidal buffers includes a buffer covering an inner opening of each seam of the set of helicoidal seams where each buffer is configured to shield the inner opening of the corresponding seam from penetration and each buffer is anchored to at least one of the outer covering and a neighbouring venting strip of the set of venting strips.

Abstract: A protective dressing includes an outer dressing and an adhesive layer. The outer dressing includes an opening and a cavity sized to receive a phase-change material (PCM) insert inserted through the opening. The adhesive layer is configured to adhere to a patient's skin surrounding an anatomic site. When adhered to the patient's skin, the PCM insert modifies the patient's skin at the anatomic site. The PCM insert may be removed and replaced with another PCM insert. For example, a warm PCM insert may be replaced with a refrigerated PCM insert. The opening of the outer dressing may be self-sealing. The opening of the outer dressing may be sealed with an upper layer dressing coupled to the PCM cooling insert.

Abstract: Aspects herein are directed to an apparel thermo-regulatory system that actively heats or cools a wearer. The apparel thermo-regulatory system comprises an apparel item, a dimensionally stable frame comprising at least one aperture that is affixed to an outer-facing surface of the apparel item at a predetermined location, an absorbent material applied to an exposed face of the dimensionally stable frame, and at least one thermoelectric module that is releasably positioned within the aperture of the dimensionally stable frame.

Abstract: A cervical collar that facilitates therapeutic hypothermia is provided and includes a cooling device having a front portion and a back portion fixedly coupled to the front portion on one side and removably coupled to the front portion on an opposite side. A fastening device removably couples the back portion to the front portion on the opposite side. The cooling device induces hypothermia in at least a portion of a patient. A sensor is provided that measures a physical characteristic of the patient.

Abstract: A cervical collar that facilitates therapeutic hypothermia is provided and includes a cooling device having a front portion and a back portion fixedly coupled to the front portion on one side and removably coupled to the front portion on an opposite side. A fastening device removably couples the back portion to the front portion on the opposite side. The cooling device induces hypothermia in at least a portion of a patient. A sensor is provided that measures a physical characteristic of the patient.

Abstract: A custom device and method for fabricating the custom device includes marking a body with reference points and/or other indicators. Multiple images of the body from multiple angles are then obtained. The images are used to determine the contours of the body and the other markings are located and used to design a brace having an inner surface that corresponds to the contours of the body. The custom modular brace is fabricated as multiple pieces that are releasably coupled together and sequentially removed as the patient heals.

Abstract: Apparatus and methods for treating dry eye include an energy source configured to apply energy to an obstruction located in a meibomian gland of a patient's eyelid. The apparatus also comprises an insulator configured to be positioned between a rear portion of the patient's eyelid and a surface of the patient's eyeball. An inner surface of the insulator has a curvature greater than that of the patient's eyeball such that an air pocket is formed between the inner surface of the insulator and the patient's eyeball, wherein the air pocket provides additional insulation to reduce or eliminate an amount of heat due to the applied energy from the energy source from being conducted to the surface of the patient's eyeball, such that the applied energy does not cause the temperature to reach a temperature sufficient to cause damage to a corneal or scleral portion of the patient's eyeball.

Abstract: A moxibustion apparatus includes: a case; a heat storage unit arranged inside the case and including a heat storage material, a heat insulating member covering an outer surface of the heat storage material, an exposed portion exposed to the outside of the heat insulating member, a heating coil embedded in the heat storage material and electrically heated, and a charging terminal that has one side exposed to the outside of the case and is connected to an external power source to provide power to the heating coil; and a moxibustion unit configured to receive heat accumulated in the heat storage material through the exposed portion to locally heat acupuncture points of a user's abdomen, and including a protrusion portion that protrudes to have an end portion thereof formed into a spherical shape or a gently curved shape and is exposed to the outside of the case.

Abstract: Disclosed are systems, methods, and devices related to a cast portal. The cast portal can be for enabling selective access through a medical cast to a body part covered by the medical cast. One illustrative cast portal includes an interior portion that extends through an entire longitudinal length of the cast portal. The illustrative cast portal can also include an outer housing that defines the bounds of the interior portion. The outer housing can include a top end configured to be positioned distal to the body part covered by the medical cast. The outer housing can also include a bottom end configured to be positioned proximate to the body part covered by the medical cast. The illustrative cast portal can also include a protrusion extending radially outwardly from the outer housing and configured to mechanically couple with the medical cast for attaching the device to the medical cast.

Abstract: The current invention discloses a treatment device having a heat source, a power source and a heat applicator. The power source includes at least one nanotech battery, ensuring superior properties such as prolonged electricity production and prompt recharging. The heat applicator includes a heat conductive layer made from nanofibers, providing highly efficient heat distribution to the targeted regions. The power source provides energy to the heat source, which generates heat so that the applicator may distribute to an injury site or wound bed of a user. The current device may also be used for cooling, instead of heating applications. In addition to the medical utilizations, the current device may also play a central role in other apparatus that require thermal control capabilities.

Abstract: A pressurized fluid cast for stabilizing a broken bone of a patient includes a sleeve having an inner wall and an outer wall with a fluid cavity between the inner and outer walls. The outer wall has at least one access port established therethrough. The sleeve is configured to be placed at a limb of a patient such that the inner wall circumscribes the limb and is disposed at least partially along the limb, with the fluid cavity and the outer wall being radially outward of the inner wall. The sleeve is adaptable to accommodate a particular patient injury and limb. Fluid is provided within the fluid cavity and is pressurized to a selected pressure to apply substantially uniform pressure at the limb of the patient. An outer protective shell may be provided at least partially around the sleeve to limit puncturing of the sleeve.

Abstract: A shoe with a three-dimensional (3-D) surface texture created using rapid manufacturing techniques is provided. A plurality of 3-D surface texture options is presented on a user interface; each of the options is associated with one of a plurality of 3-D surface textures to be applied to a portion of a shoe. A selection of a 3-D surface texture is received and is used in part to generate a design file. The design file is used to instruct a rapid manufacturing device to manufacture the portion of the shoe comprised of the 3-D surface texture using a rapid manufacturing technique.

Abstract: A custom brace and method for fabricating the custom brace includes marking a body with reference points and/or other indicators. Multiple images of the body from multiple angles are then obtained. The images are used to determine the contours of the body and the other markings are located and used to design the custom brace. Fenestrations can be added to the brace design. The custom brace can be fabricated with the fenestrations as a single piece structure or in multiple pieces that are assembled to complete the custom device.

Abstract: A calf garment assembly having, a calf garment having an internal chamber and being substantially airtight and being in fluid communication with a pressurized air source, and a heating element working in conjunction with the calf garment to provide heated DVT therapy.

Abstract: A back support system that comprises a belt portion being configured to provide back and abdominal support encircling a wearer's waist, a compression pants portion and a hot or cold pack providing therapy to a wearer's lumbosacral region. The belt portion has a left and right portions and a rear portion that extends upwardly from a cutout of the rear portion of the compression pants and is attached fixedly thereto. The rear portion of the belt portion has a pack support structure for receiving a hot or cold pack so as to maintain hot or cold therapy on the wearer's back. Slots in the belt portion may accommodate vertically extending inserts of rigid plastic or spiral metallic to reinforce the belt portion over the lumbosacral region of the wearer. A front core support structure provides abdominal support in combination with the back support that supports the entire core of the wearer's body. The garment can be changed to an immobilizing brace device by inserting optional rigid inserts.

Abstract: An appliance which removably stores a portion of a catheter and an adapter, where the indwelling portion of catheter is still inside the body tissue of a patient. The appliance has an aperture that permits connection of a vacuum source such as hospital suction. When the appliance containing the catheter is held against the portion of the body including the indwelling site of the catheter, the vacuum source is applied, having a tendency to hold the appliance in place against the body. An orthopedic cast can be fabricated around the appliance, after which time the vacuum can be deactivated and the appliance can be removed, revealing a channel formed in the orthopedic cast. Through the channel, the distal portion of the catheter and the adapter can be accessed, facilitating continued post-operative anesthesia, easy visual inspection for signs of infection or dislodgment of the catheter and permitting easy removal when needed.

Abstract: A surgical cast venting material comprises a waterproof, flexible substrate made of a plastics material and having first and second sides. The first side has a plurality of shallow, concave recesses distributed over the substrate and spaced-apart from one another while the second side has a plurality of protrusions distributed across the substrate. The substrate is perforated with a plurality of small holes distributed across its length and width. Also, a surgical cast venting device is disclosed for venting a bent region of a patient's limb. It has a flexible, central portion that can cover a major part of the bent region of the limb including opposite side surfaces and a front or rear surface. The device also has flexible connecting straps extending from two corners of the central portion.

Abstract: A dynamic support apparatus having a frame, a dynamic interface, a temperature control mechanism, and a control system. The dynamic interface is capable of changing its geometry and is disposed on the top surface of the frame. The control system is operably connected to the dynamic interface and controls the changing geometry of the dynamic interface. There is also a temperature control mechanism disposed on the top surface of the frame for maintaining a comfortable temperature and moisture environment between the apparatus and the user's body.

Abstract: A dynamic support apparatus having a frame, a dynamic interface, a temperature control mechanism, and a control system. The dynamic interface is capable of changing its geometry and is disposed on the top surface of the frame. The control system is operably connected to the dynamic interface and controls the changing geometry of the dynamic interface. There is also a temperature control mechanism disposed on the top surface of the frame for maintaining a comfortable temperature and moisture environment between the apparatus and the user's body.

Abstract: A packaged product, such as a thermo-formable splinting or bracing product adapted to be heated by microwave energy, which packaged product comprises a water laden absorbent material (5), optionally sealed in a first water-impervious container (6), wherein said absorbent material (5) is adapted to permit microwave energy to enter and heat the water held in the absorbent material (5), the first container (6) being microwave transparent and the product to be heated and the absorbent material are disposed adjacent each other but are separated by a water-impervious barrier.

Abstract: A portable and rechargeable cast ventilating system adapted for use on casts, the system comprises of a portable fluid flow manipulations device, a manifold collar, and at least one tube. The system is attached to a cast being worn by a user so that each tube is inserted between the cast and the body part of the user being covered by the cast, the manipulation collar is attached to the cast so that the collar operatively connects to the tubes, and the portable fluid flow manipulation device operatively connects to the collar. The system delivers a fluid flow within a cast being worn by the user. The temperature of the fluid flow delivered to areas being covered by the cast might be controlled by a heat transfer element of the fluid flow manipulation device.

Abstract: A surgical cast venting material comprises a waterproof, flexible substrate made of a plastics material and having first and second sides. The first side has a plurality of shallow, concave recesses distributed over the substrate and spaced-apart from one another while the second side has a plurality of protrusions distributed across the substrate. The substrate is perforated with a plurality of small holes distributed across its length and width. Also, a surgical cast venting device is disclosed for venting a bent region of a patient's limb. It has a flexible, central portion that can cover a major part of the bent region of the limb including opposite side surfaces and a front or rear surface. The device also has flexible connecting straps extending from two corners of the central portion.

Abstract: The present invention discloses a stand for a cooler containing cooling solution. The cooler further includes an attached flexible tubing outlet for draining the cooling solution through the flexible tube outlet into a medical cuff for reducing swelling of injured tissue. The stand further comprises a cylindrical container with a cavity for receiving through the opened top end of the lateral sidewall the cooler therein. An elongated pedestal is further defined by a top end and a bottom end. The top end of the pedestal is attached underneath the bottom side of the container. The container is supported in an upright position a distance above the surface of the ground. An aperture is located in the lateral side wall for receiving the flexible tubing outlet therethrough.

Abstract: A kit for cooling the blood in the carotid arteries includes a cervical immobilization collar and a cooling element. The cooling element may include a body-facing panel attached on a body-facing surface to a lining layer, an outward-facing panel, and cooling material disposed between the body-facing panel and the outward facing panel. The cooling material may comprise urea and Carbamakool™ in an amount sufficient to produce a temperature of 20° F. to 35° F. within a minute of activation when measured on the body-facing surface of the body-facing panel.

Abstract: A device for selectively cooling of the brain of a patient includes a cervical immobilization collar including a substantially annular support structure having an extended axial length and an anterior opening. The collar may also include a securing member capable of substantially covering the anterior opening and at least one pressure member. The immobilization collar may be used to secure a cooling element to the anterior portion of a patient's neck, cooling the blood in the patient's carotid arteries.

Abstract: A method for selective cooling of the brain of a patient includes providing a cervical immobilization collar, the collar including a substantially annular support structure having an extended axial length, an anterior opening, and a securing member capable of substantially covering the anterior opening. The method also includes applying the cervical immobilization collar to the patient, placing a first cooling element within the anterior opening of the substantially annular support structure, and securing the first cooling element within the anterior opening.

Abstract: A process and system for fitting, customizing and manufacturing an orthosis for a subject. 3-dimensional coordinates for a plurality of landmarks corresponding to anatomical characteristics of the subject, means for attachment of the orthosis to the subject, and a reference plane are digitally acquired. Then, coordinates of one or more virtual landmarks corresponding to one or more anatomical joint centers or joint projection locations are calculated. The landmarks are clinically aligned in a reference position of one of the anatomical joint centers and a customized digital model of the orthosis is created using the clinically aligned landmarks. Finally, the orthosis is fabricated using a computer aided manufacturing process, based upon an output from the customized digital model.

Abstract: A compression sleeve includes a wicking layer secured to bladder material defining an inflatable bladder along a seamline. Fibers of the wicking layer extend through the seamline to allow fluid wicked by the wicking layer from the wearer's skin to evaporate to the atmosphere.

Abstract: A thermal treatment device is provided to perform thermal therapy treatment to a portion of a body. The thermal treatment device includes a harness and a bladder. The harness is configured to wrap around at least a portion of the body to secure the thermal treatment device. The bladder is coupled to an interior section of the harness and is filled with a temperature retaining fluid to provide either cold or heat therapy treatment.

Abstract: An emergency helmet trauma bandage and method of use, which, when applied, applies minimal pressure to stop bleeding, doesn't compromise cervical spine immobilization, allows for fast and effective application of ice/cold packs to control intracranial/internal swelling, doesn't come apart during treatment and transport, and doesn't require a caregiver to re-wrap the dressing.

Abstract: A cervical collar that facilitates therapeutic hypothermia is provided and includes a front portion, a back portion fixedly coupled to the front portion on one side and removably coupled to the front portion on an opposite side, and a fastening device that removably couples the back portion to the front portion on the opposite side. At least one cooling device is disposed on an interior of the front portion and/or the back portion to induce hypothermia in a patient.

Abstract: A system and method are disclosed for providing a ventilated orthotic cranioplasty helmet for treating positional plagiocephaly in infants. Specifically, a system and method are disclosed in which patient-specific parameters such as head size, patient age, degree of patient sweating, diameter of patient's hair, average length of patient's hair, and sweat range are input into a computer implemented algorithm along with a user-proposed ventilation hole array to determine an optimal ventilation hole arrangement. The computer may be connected either directly or indirectly to an automated hole drilling machine to drill the hole array in the specified portion of the helmet. The same computer implemented algorithm can be used to revise the ventilation hole array to accommodate changes in patient physiology during treatment to thereby achieve an optimal ventilation hole design throughout the treatment process.

Abstract: In a method of forming a compression sleeve, a wicking layer is provided that is strategically exposed to promote wicking and cooling of the body part acted upon by the sleeve. The wicking layer has a perimeter and a surface area. A bladder segment that defines a bladder has a surface area less than the surface area of the wicking layer. The surface area of the bladder segment is defined by the perimeter of the bladder material, less any openings formed through the bladder material. The wicking layer is secured to the bladder material so that portions of the wicking layer are not overlaid by the bladder material. The bladder segment is welded to the wicking layer along a seamline so that fibers of the wicking layer extend through the seamline and allow fluid wicked by the wicking layer to move through the seamline.

Abstract: An orthopedic brace is provided having a pliable pad and a rigid support member. The pad is fabricated from a laminate and has an integrally formed raised region and mesh section The mesh section has a plurality of void spaces extending through the laminate which freely permit air flow therethrough. The support member has an open ventilation window extending through it which freely permits air flow therethrough. The support member overlays the pad with the ventilation window aligned with the underlying mesh section to freely permit air flow through the support member and pad via the aligned ventilation window and mesh section.

Abstract: A cast for supporting a limb includes a rigid outer shell, such as provided as first and second assembleable halves interconnected by a plurality of latches. An inner conforming foam insole is supported within the shell and is interconnected by pluralities of linearly extending passageways in combination with radially extending rings and which communicate with additional breathing holes extending through a cross sectional thickness of the insole for introducing an airflow for relieving patient discomfort. A toe attachable fan unit creates the airflow within the insole in communication with a plurality of vents positioned at upper terminating ends of each of the linear extending passageways. A plurality of airbags encircle the insole and are iteratively inflated and deflated to achieve a pulsing massage effect.

Abstract: A brace for providing therapeutic pressure to a person's or animal's body part is provided together with a venting device for use with a cast or brace. The brace has a rigid exterior shell which is perforated over a substantial portion of its surface. An interior resilient liner is arranged in the shell and this liner is also perforated. At least a portion of the liner has two inner and outer layers of flexible material and spacer members connecting these layers and forming air passageways. At least the inner layer is porous. The venting device can have two half sections which, when combined together, enclose a body part. Each half section is preformed to closely fit around a curved side of the body part and has spaced-apart inner and outer layers of flexible, material with at least the inner layer being porous. Again, spacer members are arranged between and connect these layers and form air passageways.

Abstract: A surgical cast venting material comprises a waterproof, flexible substrate made of a plastics material and having first and second sides. The first side has a plurality of shallow, concave recesses distributed over the substrate and spaced-apart from one another while the second side has a plurality of protrusions distributed across the substrate. The substrate is perforated with a plurality of small holes distributed across its length and width. Also, a surgical cast venting device is disclosed for venting a bent region of a patient's limb. It has a flexible, central portion that can cover a major part of the bent region of the limb including opposite side surfaces and a front or rear surface. The device also has flexible connecting straps extending from two corners of the central portion.

Abstract: A compression wrap for application to body members having a top layer and a bottom layer with an inflatable bladder of smaller dimension positioned therebetween, an interiorly positioned pocket for insertion of a gel pack and a hand-bulb for increasing the pressure within the bladder and thereby applying pressure to the gel pack. To remove the compression wrap, the hand bulb is mounted in a reverse direction and pumped to deflate the bladder.

Abstract: An improved inflatable compression dressing (10) for use in controlling swelling and promoting healing to wounds subsequent to surgery while allowing visual inspection of the wound during healing is provided. The dressing comprises a bladder (138) formed by an outer wall (114) secured to an inner wall (112) to define an elongated, cup-shaped cavity for receiving an appendage (136); an air supply delivering air to the bladder; and a sensor monitoring air pressure within the bladder and indicating said air pressure to an air pressure control (140). The air pressure control provides air to the bladder at a rate which substantially matches air leaked from the bladder. Thus, the air supply inflates the bladder so as to provide uniform air pressure to the appendage, wherein the appendage is an arm or a leg.

Abstract: A kit for cooling the blood in the carotid arteries includes a cervical immobilization collar and a cooling element. The cooling element may include a body-facing panel attached on a body-facing surface to a lining layer, an outward-facing panel, and cooling material disposed between the body-facing panel and the outward facing panel. The cooling material comprises urea and Carbamakool™ in an amount sufficient to produce a temperature of 20° F. to 35° F. within a minute of activation when measured on the body-facing surface of the body-facing panel.

Abstract: A kit and method for cooling the carotid arteries includes cervical immobilization collar includes a substantially annular support structure having an extended axial length, at least two cheek support structures having an extended vertical length, and an anterior opening that may be covered with a door. The door has a body-facing surface on which a pressure member may be secured and an outward-facing surface. The kit and method also includes a cooling element that may be disposed within the anterior opening and can be secured to the substantially annular support structure by placing the cooling element between the anterior portion of a patient's neck and the pressure member located on the door.

Abstract: A flexible cast that constructed out of a group of cells. Each cell is filled with a filler that contains a substance that can be heated or cooled. The cast is held onto the user's body by a set of straps and fasteners. The cast is intended to immobilize the body part and either heat or cool it as desired.

Abstract: A brace providing targeted cooling to predetermined anatomical locations and further providing controlled compression. The brace can be wrapped and fastened around a body part. The brace having an interior layer providing comfort to a users skin and capable of efficient and controlled thermal conductivity, and having an outer layer providing insulation and controlled compression. The brace further including a cooling bladder with cooling nodules providing both targeted therapeutic cooling when the brace is worn.

Abstract: A therapeutic device for biasing a body portion of a patient into a predetermined position. The therapeutic device includes a rigid support that is substantially flat and contoured to brace the body portion into the predetermined position. A securing mechanism is provided to brace the rigid support against the body portion and a therapeutic stimulation mechanism is provided. The therapeutic stimulation mechanism can include an electrical stimulation mechanism or a heating mechanism to provide heating and electrical stimulation to the body portion.

Abstract: A portable and rechargeable cast ventilating system adapted for use on casts, the system comprises of a portable fluid flow manipulations device, a manifold collar, and at least one tube. The system is attached to a cast being worn by a user so that each tube is inserted between the cast and the body part of the user being covered by the cast, the manipulation collar is attached to the cast so that the collar operatively connects to the tubes, and the portable fluid flow manipulation device operatively connects to the collar. The system delivers a fluid flow within a cast being worn by the user. The temperature of the fluid flow delivered to areas being covered by the cast might be controlled by a heat transfer element of the fluid flow manipulation device.

Abstract: A custom brace and method for fabricating the custom brace includes marking a body with reference points and/or other indicators. Multiple images of the body from multiple angles are then obtained. The images are used to determine the contours of the body and the other markings are located and used to design the custom brace. Fenestrations can be added to the brace design. The custom brace can be fabricated with the fenestrations as a single piece structure or in multiple pieces that are assembled to complete the custom device.

Abstract: A non-ambulatory thermotherapy device for contacting and applying hot or cold therapy to a treatment area of a user of the non-ambulatory thermotherapy device. The device has at least one pad made of a pliable single piece of gel material for contacting a part of the user's treatment area and for undergoing selective heating or cooling to specific temperatures to selectively apply hot or cold therapy, respectively, to the part of the user's treatment area. The pad has opposite main surfaces and a plurality of bumps extending from one of the main surfaces for increasing a surface contact between the gel material and irregularly shaped contours of the part of the user's treatment area during application of hot or cold therapy to the part of the user's treatment area.