Shaped Or Shapeable Patents (Class 602/6)
  • Patent number: 11877960
    Abstract: A extremity offloading system including a body with an outer surface, an inner surface, and a first thickness extending between the outer surface and the inner surface. The outer surface can be at least partially round. The inner surface can define an aperture. The aperture can be configured to accept insertion of a leg or an ankle of a patient.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 17, 2021
    Date of Patent: January 23, 2024
    Inventor: Michael J. Marcus
  • Patent number: 11690748
    Abstract: Orthosis brace comprising reel-based lacing system for alleviating foot drop experienced by a user. A device includes a support configured to wrap around at least a portion of a lower leg of a user and a lace support attached to the support and configured to receive a lace. The device includes a reel-based fastener attached to the support, wherein the reel-based fastener comprises a reel for receiving the lace and adjusting a tautness of the lace.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 18, 2020
    Date of Patent: July 4, 2023
    Assignee: Footscientific Inc.
    Inventors: Jonathan Robert Faux, Chris Hughes, Gary Moore
  • Patent number: 11622905
    Abstract: Lower-limb exoskeletons used to improve free-living mobility for individuals with neuromuscular impairment must be controlled to prescribe assistance that adapts to the diverse locomotor conditions encountered during daily life, including walking at different speeds and across varied terrain. This system employs an ankle exoskeleton control strategy that instantly and appropriately adjusts assistance to the changing biomechanical demand during variable walking. Specifically, this system utilizes a proportional joint-moment control strategy that prescribes assistance as a function of the instantaneous estimate of the ankle joint moment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 3, 2019
    Date of Patent: April 11, 2023
    Assignee: ARIZONA BOARD OF REGENTS ON BEHALF OF NORTHERN ARIZONA UNIVERSITY
    Inventor: Zachary F. Lerner
  • Patent number: 11529250
    Abstract: An orthopedic device has a rigid or semi-rigid frame element defining opposed first and second sides, and is adapted to extend about at least a portion of a limb. The device includes straps formed from a variety of segments having stretchable and substantially inelastic segments. The straps adjustably secure to the frame element, and stretch relative thereto. The device also includes a central strap pad arranged to connect two straps together such that a first strap of the two straps is movable relative to a second strap, and the first and second straps are maintained diagonal relative to one another.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 31, 2019
    Date of Patent: December 20, 2022
    Assignee: OSSUR HF
    Inventors: Arni Thor Ingimundarson, Palmi Einarsson
  • Patent number: 11471312
    Abstract: The disclosure features wearable anatomical devices that include a sleeve formed of a first material, one or more conduits connected to the sleeve, where each conduit is formed of a second material and at least partially filled with a third material, and one or more adjustable members connected to the one or more conduits and oriented so that at least some of the one or more adjustable members are connected at multiple locations to the one or more conduits, where the one or more conduits are oriented along a longitudinal direction of the sleeve, where each adjustable member extends in a circumferential direction of the sleeve, and where each adjustable member can be selectively controlled to modify a deformation of the one or more conduits.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 22, 2018
    Date of Patent: October 18, 2022
    Inventor: Alexander Steele
  • Patent number: 11179512
    Abstract: A dressing or wound filler comprising a laminate structure of film materials. In one example embodiment, a dressing may include a first layer comprising a first film, a second layer adjacent to the first layer and comprising a second film, and a third layer comprising a material having closed cells. The first layer may further include a plurality of fluid restrictions. The second layer may include blisters and apertures to allow fluid transfer through the second film. The third layer may include closed cells and apertures between the closed cells to allow fluid transfer through the third layer. The dressing may further include a fourth layer adjacent to the third layer opposite the second layer, which may include a fourth film having blisters and apertures. The dressing may also include a fifth layer, which may be adjacent to the fourth layer opposite the third layer. The fifth layer may include a film and a second plurality of fluid restrictions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 5, 2018
    Date of Patent: November 23, 2021
    Assignee: KCI Licensing, Inc.
    Inventors: Christopher Brian Locke, Timothy Mark Robinson
  • Patent number: 11173087
    Abstract: A system for supporting and positioning a person. A flexible cover layer defines a support surface for the person, and a formable layer is coupled to the flexible cover layer. The formable layer includes a sealed bladder adapted to be in fluid communication with a vacuum source, and particles disposed within the sealed bladder. The system is operable in a first configuration in the absence of the vacuum, and a second configuration in the presence of the vacuum. In the first configuration, the particles are substantially movable relative to one another such that a contour may be provided to the support surface. In the second configuration, substantially immovable relative to provide rigidity to the formable layer to maintain the contour. A controller coupled to sensors may control the vacuum source to move said system between the first and second configurations. Methods of supporting and positioning the person are also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 1, 2019
    Date of Patent: November 16, 2021
    Assignee: Stryker Corporation
    Inventors: Patrick Lafleche, Justin Jon Raymond
  • Patent number: 11083182
    Abstract: The present invention discloses devices for a perforated, stacked-membrane insect bait station with a leak-proof bait reservoir. Such devices include: a protective outer membrane for providing selective access to the bait station; perforations in the membrane, wherein the perforations facilitate easy insect-probe penetration for mosquitoes and other biting flies, and facilitate outward diffusion of volatile components of the bait station; a pierceable support layer for preventing inward water penetration and outward bait leakage via the perforations; an absorbent material for providing a reservoir for containing liquids in the bait station and for restraining bait fluidity; a liquid-based bait core for providing bait to the bait station, the bait core including a bait, an insect toxin, and a solvent, the bait core configured to be absorbed in the absorbent material and to be substantially in contact with the support layer; and a bait reservoir enclosure for housing the bait core.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 13, 2021
    Date of Patent: August 10, 2021
    Assignee: WTO Investments, LLC
    Inventors: Onie Tsabari, Meir Morag
  • Patent number: 10864104
    Abstract: Method of using a shape-formable apparatus. A shape-formable apparatus can include an envelope defining a chamber, a port positioned to fluidly couple the chamber with ambience, and at least two locking sheets positioned in the chamber in an at least partially overlapping configuration. Each locking sheet can include a major surface, and at least a portion of each locking sheet can be patterned to include solid regions and open regions, the solid regions being movable with respect to one another within the major surface. The method can include providing the shape-formable apparatus in a first state; forming the apparatus into a desired shape; and reducing the pressure in the chamber to change the apparatus from the first state to a second state in which the apparatus is substantially less formable than in the first state.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 14, 2015
    Date of Patent: December 15, 2020
    Assignee: 3M INNOVATIVE PROPERTIES COMPANY
    Inventors: Thomas R. Corrigan, Marc A. Egeland, Alan R. Dombrowski
  • Patent number: 10758396
    Abstract: A 3D printed cast or splint for application to a patient's body to immobilize a body part includes first and second shell portions configured to conform to at least a portion of the body part. The first shell portion has a distal end, a proximal end, opposing interfacing edges, a plurality of venting holes and a first engagement mechanism positioned proximate one of the opposing interfacing edges. A reinforcement portion extends between the proximal and distal ends. The second shell portion has a distal end, a proximal end, opposing interfacing edges, a plurality of venting holes and a second engagement mechanism positioned proximate one of the opposing interfacing edges. The first engagement mechanism interacts with the second engagement mechanism in a mounted configuration to facilitate mounting of the first shell portion to the second shell portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 27, 2017
    Date of Patent: September 1, 2020
    Assignee: Dimension Orthotics, LLC
    Inventors: Michael Rivlin, Pedro Beredjiklian, Alexander R. Vaccaro, Michael J. Sileski, Emilia Pollnow, Mary Grace Maggiano, Cynthia Watkins
  • Patent number: 10688899
    Abstract: An occupant support structure and a method of customizing an occupant support structure. The occupant support structure may comprise a base and a reconfigurable cushion carried by the base. The reconfigurable cushion may include an occupant support surface and a bladder. The bladder may include an outer wall that defines an inner cavity underlying the occupant support surface and two or more overlapping material layers disposed within the cavity. The overlapping material layers may be adapted to selectively transition from a compliant state to a rigid state and vice versa by selective control of a pressure condition across the outer wall of the bladder to reconfigure or conform the occupant support surface of the cushion to a contour of a portion of an occupant supported by the cushion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 9, 2017
    Date of Patent: June 23, 2020
    Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations LLC
    Inventors: Wonhee M. Kim, Amberlee S. Haselhuhn, Richard J. Skurkis, Michael J. Walker, Ian J. Sutherland, Paul W. Alexander, Nilesh D. Mankame
  • Patent number: 10188541
    Abstract: Immobilizing splints for antecubital intravenous injection sites. The splints include a flexible sleeve configured to be closed around an elbow of a patient, a preformed opening in the sleeve, at least one fastening member to close the sleeve around the elbow, and at least one stiffening member positioned in the sleeve proximal the preformed opening such that the at least one stiffening member is positioned on an anterior side of the arm when the sleeve is closed around the elbow.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 21, 2016
    Date of Patent: January 29, 2019
    Inventor: William Miles Combs
  • Patent number: 9622829
    Abstract: A device for immobilizing a patient for a medical test or operation includes a molding element that is convertible from a flexible, elastic form to a rigid form by the application of a vacuum. The molding element is attached to the patient by an elastic layer while in the flexible, elastic form where it conforms to the contours of the patient's body. Then the molding element is converted to its rigid form thereby immobilizing the patient. Auxiliary devices can be attached to the immobilizing device and these devices, such as a pivot arm suspension can be used to fix the immobilized patient to an operating table.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 6, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 18, 2017
    Assignee: ISYS MEDIZINTECHNIK GMBH
    Inventor: Michael Vogele
  • Patent number: 9463068
    Abstract: Devices and methods are provided which shield at least one turbinate from trauma or damage during sinus surgery that could be caused by direct contact with diagnostic and therapeutic devices. The devices and methods provided are particularly useful for protecting nasal turbinates during FESS and FTIS procedures.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 18, 2013
    Date of Patent: October 11, 2016
    Assignee: Acclarent, Inc.
    Inventor: John H. Morriss
  • Publication number: 20150088043
    Abstract: A flexible orthotic device includes two or more active components embedded in a sheet material. Each active component can include a controller and one or more actuation elements controlled by the controller. The two or more active components can communicate with each other and cause the active components to contract and dynamically change the structural characteristics of the orthotic device. By coordinating the motion of two or more active components, the flexible orthotic device can be programmed to assist or resist the motion of a subject wearing the device. The orthotic device can be effectively employed to provide locomotion assistance, gait rehabilitation, and gait training. Similarly, the orthotic device may be applied to the wrist, elbow, torso, or any other body part. The active components may be actuated to effectively transmit force to a body part, such as a limb, to assist with movement when desired.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 1, 2012
    Publication date: March 26, 2015
    Applicant: PRESIDENT AND FELLOWS OF HARVARD COLLEGE
    Inventors: Eugene C. Goldfield, Yong-lae Park, Bor-rong Chen, Carmel Majidi, Robert J. Wood, Radhika Nagpal
  • Patent number: 8986234
    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.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 25, 2010
    Date of Patent: March 24, 2015
    Assignee: 3D Systems, Inc
    Inventors: Scott Summit, Kenneth B. Trauner
  • Patent number: 8968226
    Abstract: A therapeutic, supportive, or protective device is fabricated from a material capable of contracting in response to interacting with heat, cold, a chemical reagent, electromagnetic energy, or mechanical energy. The device is positioned over an anatomical joint or other body part and via a “shrink fit,” conforms to the part, providing a customizable fit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 3, 2011
    Date of Patent: March 3, 2015
    Inventor: Nick Romcevich
  • Patent number: 8951217
    Abstract: A composite material for forming custom fitted orthopedic and other products. The composite material is easily formable when heated to temperatures of about two hundred degrees Fahrenheit for a time of at least six to eight minutes and then is rigid at temperatures of about one hundred thirty degrees. The composite material can be sewn and formed in complex shapes when initially heated to about two hundred degrees. Closure attachments can be secured to the composite material as needed on site rather than at the manufacturing facility. The composite material can be custom fitted to a patient in situ.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 24, 2011
    Date of Patent: February 10, 2015
    Assignee: EXOS LLC
    Inventor: Mark Joseph
  • Publication number: 20150025428
    Abstract: The present invention relates to orthopedic casts. In particular, some implementations relate to one or more components of a total contact cast system that can be used in the treatment of an appendage, such as a leg or foot. While the cast system can comprise any suitable component, in some cases, it includes an elongated piece of hardenable casting material. In some such cases, the casting material includes a first length of casting material that is configured to extend over a patient's calf, a second length of casting material that is configured to wrap around a portion of the patient's foot, and a third length of the casting material that is configured to extend up a shin of the patient's leg. In some cases, one or more wings or straps extend between the first and third lengths of the elongated piece of hardenable casting material. Other implementations are also described.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 12, 2014
    Publication date: January 22, 2015
    Inventors: Brock Liden, Spencer Brown
  • Publication number: 20150025429
    Abstract: The present invention relates to orthopedic casts. In particular, some implementations relate to a cast system having one or more underlayment components that are disposed between an internal surface of a cast or splint and a body part that is covered by the cast or splint. While the underlayment components can include any suitable element, in some cases, they include a compression sock and a padding layer. Additionally, in some such cases, the compression sock and the padding layer are capable of moving (at least somewhat) with respect to each other such that shearing movement between the skin of a casted appendage and the cast itself is configured to take place between the padding layer and the compression sock (and/or another portion of the underlayment). Additionally, in some cases, one or more components of the underlayment comprise an antimicrobial material, such as a bamboo fabric. Other implementations are also described.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 12, 2014
    Publication date: January 22, 2015
    Inventors: Brock Liden, Spencer Brown
  • Publication number: 20150018733
    Abstract: A brace for a part of a body includes a first conductive fiber associated with a first polarity, and a second conductive fiber associated with a second polarity different from the first polarity. The second fiber is woven together with the first fiber and insulated from the first fiber. The brace also includes a selectively electrically activated cross-linking agent between the first and second fibers. The agent is constructed to cross-link in a first active mode when the first and second fibers are electrified and is constructed to not cross-link in a second inactive mode when the first and second fibers are not electrified. The brace surrounds a body part, such as a knee or neck. The agent can include an ER fluid and/or EAP. A brace system includes a selectively electrically activated brace for the part of the body.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 10, 2014
    Publication date: January 15, 2015
    Applicant: SOFTARMOUR LLC
    Inventors: David Amos Ben-Meir, Allan Sanford, Christen Egan, Gibran Esquenazi, Richard Hutchison, Nathaniel Mowell, Russell Scott Miller
  • Publication number: 20140364787
    Abstract: A device (22) for analgesic immobilization in the event of thorax or rib fractures as well as a method for application of such a device are disclosed. The immobilization device (22) includes a flat splint element (24) which covers a large area of the region of the break (19), and is provided with an adhesive layer (26) which is located on the side thereof facing the body and is used to adhere the immobilization device (22) to the body. In a preferred method of application, two separate areas of adhesive are applied to the patient's skin over the fracture at two different points in the breathing cycle. This allows the device to remain in place more securely under the dynamic condition of the ribcage that results from constant inhalation and exhalation.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 27, 2014
    Publication date: December 11, 2014
    Applicant: CHRISOFIX AG
    Inventor: Kalman BOLLA
  • Patent number: 8876743
    Abstract: A conformable material for an orthotic device including a plurality of fibers each including a plurality of filaments encapsulated by a first thermoplastic material. A second thermoplastic material is configured to bind the plurality of fibers and form the conformable material.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 18, 2012
    Date of Patent: November 4, 2014
    Assignee: Vivonics, Inc.
    Inventors: Anna M. Galea, Kristen LeRoy, John Player
  • Publication number: 20140323935
    Abstract: The invention relates to an orthosis for supporting at least a part of the body of a person, comprising: a casing; at least one deformable element disposed in the casing, the deformable element being filled with a medium curable by activation or fillable with a curable medium, for supporting the part of the body of the person after curing of the medium. The invention also relates to a method for adjusting such an orthosis.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 23, 2014
    Publication date: October 30, 2014
    Inventors: Alouisius Gerardus Huttenhuis, Tijn Pieter Lodewijk Huttenhuis
  • Publication number: 20140316315
    Abstract: A protection member which protects at least a portion of the body of a person or an animal, includes: an impact relaxing portion which is changed according to the shape of a part of the person or the animal to be mounted and absorbs an impact; a deformation suppressing member which suppresses deformation of the shape of the protection member and disperses the impact absorbed by the impact relaxing portion; and a close contact surface which is provided in at least a portion of a mounting surface of the protection member. The deformation suppressing member includes base bodies made of a material harder than the impact relaxing portion and shape defining portions made of a material harder than the base body. The base bodies are provided to be lined up along the planar direction of the protection member, and the shape defining portion is provided in at least a portion between the base bodies.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 21, 2014
    Publication date: October 23, 2014
    Inventor: Naoto Ohira
  • Publication number: 20140303534
    Abstract: An orthopedic device includes a textile panel having interior and exterior surfaces, and a first stabilizer assembly including a first tubular welt sewn or knitted within and extending from an exterior surface of the textile panel. A first cable is slidably extending through the tubular welt and a strap is connected to a first end of the cable extending from a first opening of the welt, and the strap is adjustably securable over the textile panel. The orthopedic device may include various portions of stretchability and features for receiving components for the orthopedic device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 8, 2014
    Publication date: October 9, 2014
    Applicant: OSSUR HF
    Inventors: Concetta Maria HUFFA, Harry Duane ROMO
  • Publication number: 20140257157
    Abstract: In a casting apparatus for external skeletal and joint fixation, a plurality of articulated segments may comprise a plurality of cuboid members threaded on a continuous cord having distal ends connected to actuators. The cuboid members may be disposed between guide members threaded on the cord. Actuation of the actuators applies a tension force to the cord, thereby compressing the cuboid members together to form rigid cuboid segments and maintain the casting apparatus in a rigid configuration for skeletal and joint fixation.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 16, 2013
    Publication date: September 11, 2014
    Inventors: BING-TANG ZHONG, BING-ZHONG ZHONG, BING-ZHONG CHUNG
  • Patent number: 8771209
    Abstract: A medical bandaging product including a sealable enclosure and a resin-impregnated substrate including a knitted fabric layer having upper and lower surfaces with interconnected knitted fabric yarns knitted such that at least one yarn extends across a gap from the upper surface to the lower surface along a width of the substrate in a back-and-forth pattern forming a single, integrated three-dimensional structure, wherein the at least one yarn extends between non-adjacent needle positions in a back-and-forth pattern in successive courses to provide a continuous pattern on both the upper and lower major surfaces of the substrate, wherein needle bed gap spacing is between 7.1 mm and 8 mm and a total thickness of the substrate is between 4.75 mm and 4.90 mm.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 11, 2012
    Date of Patent: July 8, 2014
    Assignee: BSN Medical, Inc.
    Inventor: John C. Evans
  • Patent number: 8708942
    Abstract: A custom ankle brace system is disclosed which is constructed from a low temperature non-olefinic elastomeric blend material, and methods of fabricating and fitting the same. This material can be molded directly to a custom mold made from a casting of an affected body part. The final product will be an ankle brace that is able to be heated at low temperature (150° F.-200° F.) by use of an oven or equivalent, and custom molded directly on the patient. If necessary reheated, the ankle brace may be remolded to account for a change in the patient's anatomy or for an increase in comfort.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 10, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 29, 2014
    Inventor: Jeffrey Andrew Kuhn
  • Patent number: 8708938
    Abstract: A low density fabric substrate for a medical bandaging product. The substrate has a plurality of longitudinally-extending voids formed in the fabric for permitting water penetration through the fabric thickness from one of the major faces to the other major faces. A reactive system is impregnated into or coated onto the substrate and remains stable when maintained in substantially moisture-free conditions and hardens upon exposure to sufficient moisture to form a rigid, self supporting structure. A soft, flexible protective material covers at least one of the major faces of the substrate along its length to provide a cushioning barrier between the substrate and the skin of a patient when the material is in use.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 3, 2006
    Date of Patent: April 29, 2014
    Assignee: BSN Medical, Inc.
    Inventors: John C. Evans, Shitij Chabba, Martin O'Hara
  • Patent number: 8696610
    Abstract: The magnetorheological (MAR) medical brace includes a flexible outer shell that fits around the anatomical area to be braced and a plurality of adjustable straps for securing the shell onto the anatomical area. The shell encases a MAR pack filled with magnetorheological fluid or gel. A plurality of magnets is attached to or encased in the shell to provide a magnetic field acting on the MAR pack. The interaction of the magnetic field with the MAR pack adjustably increases or decreases the stiffness of the shell depending on the strength of the magnetic field. A control mechanism is provided for selective adjustment of the magnetic field and other functions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 23, 2012
    Date of Patent: April 15, 2014
    Inventors: Clifford T. Solomon, Theodore C. Solomon
  • Publication number: 20140094728
    Abstract: A tensioning system for medical braces and devices is disclosed. The tensioning system includes a tensioning member that is tightened or loosened using a motorized tensioning device for winding and unwinding the tensioning member on a spool. The motorized tensioning device includes a torque transmitting system that allows for incremental tightening, incremental loosening, and full loosening of the tensioning member.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 30, 2013
    Publication date: April 3, 2014
    Applicant: Boa Technology Inc.
    Inventors: Mark Soderberg, Jimmy Capra, Cody Henderson, Tiffany Beers, Andy Owings
  • Patent number: 8647288
    Abstract: A multi-phase orthopedic system including a moisture-impervious sleeve, a moldable splint including a covered resin-impregnated substrate, an elongate removable wrap for retaining the splint on the limb, and a removable cast for application to the limb during a subsequent treatment phase including a cast body having an interior side and exterior side, and a flap carried by the body and movable between an open position, and a closed position overlying a part of the cast body to be applied to a treatment area of the limb, the flap adapted to cover and retain between the cast body and the flap the splint worn by the patient during the initial treatment phase in the same position as the location of the splint during the initial treatment phase. A method of immobilizing a limb in multiple treatment phases utilizing the multi-phase orthopedic system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 20, 2010
    Date of Patent: February 11, 2014
    Assignee: BSN Medical, Inc.
    Inventor: Koen Jozef Maria Jorissen
  • Patent number: 8632484
    Abstract: Systems and methods are disclosed for providing supplemental support to the arm and/or elbow region of an individual. In one exemplary implementation, a brace for a user's arm is provided comprising a rigid element including arm-engaging portions and a strap of flexible material configured to encircle the arm. Moreover, the exemplary rigid element and strap may be further characterized in that the strap comprises an elastic nature or portion that provides a force (such as a compressive or constraining force) to the user's arm, the arm-engaging portions include muscle/tendon-engaging regions that each engage the user's arm along a leading face/edge, with various leading faces/edges corresponding to the muscle/tendon-engaging regions being positioned in relationship with each other to apply a desired pressure or force to the user's arm.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 30, 2011
    Date of Patent: January 21, 2014
    Assignee: Squarehit Sports, Inc.
    Inventors: James Bowmar Rodgers, Jr., Maurice Arthur LeBlanc, Jr., Raymond Neil Bilsey
  • Patent number: 8597219
    Abstract: The invention provides, in various embodiments, braces that are capable of stabilizing an injured limb, particularly an injured wrist. An exemplary brace fits across the injury in contact with the user's limb and has an adjustable casing and compressible material.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 27, 2005
    Date of Patent: December 3, 2013
    Assignee: DJO, LLC
    Inventors: David C. Hargrave, Eugene Prais
  • Publication number: 20130317402
    Abstract: The present invention provides an easily transportable immobilization device and system designed to immobilize fractures, severe sprains or soft tissue injuries within a body structure. The device generally contains a shaped body having one or more portions constructed and arranged to fit onto a leg or arm having a fracture, severe strain or soft tissue injury. The device utilizes a multilayer construction which allows for the delivery of the device to an individual in need in a compressed state. Activation allows a portion of the device to return to the non-compressed state, uniformly expanding outwardly, both longitudinally and radially. As the device expands, it surrounds and contacts the injured body structure, thereby applying a pressure as well as preventing lateral movement. The injured body structure is completely immobilized and secured until proper evaluation and care can be performed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 23, 2013
    Publication date: November 28, 2013
    Inventors: Henry Pong, Edward W. Sandall
  • Patent number: 8562550
    Abstract: A cast for aligning and supporting first and second bone locations adjoining a bone fracture zone including a body employed in at least one of interior and exterior locations of the bone surrounding the fracture zone. The body provides for at least one of aligning the bone locations on either side of the fracture zone and influencing the bone locations in a compressive fashion against the fracture zone during healing of the bone. The body may further include an internally inserted membrane, such as further exhibiting inflatable bladder incorporating a plurality of elongate stiffening members.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 24, 2010
    Date of Patent: October 22, 2013
    Assignee: Linares Medical Devices, LLC
    Inventor: Miguel A. Linares
  • Patent number: 8545422
    Abstract: A moldable decorative splint material includes a heat-moldable sheet of splint material adapted to become sufficiently pliable when heated to a first temperature to allow the sheet to be molded into a splint configuration that conforms to an anatomical body part and to become hard when cooled to a second temperature to retain the splint configuration. The splint material includes a plurality of decorative elements integrated with the sheet of splint material. The decorative elements are to be retained by the sheet of splint material when the sheet is heated to the first temperature, molded into a splint configuration, and cooled to the second temperature.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 4, 2011
    Date of Patent: October 1, 2013
    Inventor: Cristina Watson
  • Publication number: 20130245520
    Abstract: An apparatus for supporting a limb may include an anchoring article having a pre-existing fastening device that includes a hook layer and a loop layer. The anchor article may be worn on a first portion of the limb. The apparatus may also include an elastically deformable band and an anchor coupled proximate to a first end of the band. The anchor is complementary to the pre-existing fastening element and completes a connection in the pre-existing fastening device. The closure device may be coupled to a second end of the band and includes a hook layer and a loop layer. The closure device is configured to fix a first surface of the band to a second surface portion of the band.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 11, 2013
    Publication date: September 19, 2013
    Inventor: Robert J. Munaretto
  • Patent number: 8523796
    Abstract: The inflatable splint is formed of an inner shell of thin, semi-rigid material and at least one pneumatically inflated ply surrounding the inner shell. A second pneumatically inflated ply may be placed around the first pneumatically inflated layer. The inner shell may be lined with a soft fabric material, or a soft fabric sock or sleeve may be applied over the injured limb for comfort. The innermost semi-rigid ply of the splint may be formed in two halves that attach removably to one another to allow the assembly to be removed from the wearer from time to time for hygiene, therapy, and/or other reasons as required. The pneumatically inflatable outer plies are each formed as a single wrap. An inflation device may be provided with the assembly, for the convenience of the wearer to adjust the inflation pressure of the outer pneumatic ply or plies.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 15, 2012
    Date of Patent: September 3, 2013
    Inventor: Ibtesam M. Y. Mustafa
  • Patent number: 8512269
    Abstract: Disclosed is an ankle-foot orthosis that includes a boot and a pre-tibial shell. The boot includes an inner shell and outer shell between which are included padding and/or structural supports according to the needs of the patient to be treated. The pre-tibial shell likewise includes an interior layer and an exterior layer. Both the boot and the pre-tibial shell are custom molded to a casting made from an injured foot while taped in a non-weight-bearing position and corrected to a position of neutral pathology. Also disclosed is a method for constructing the disclosed ankle-foot orthosis.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 9, 2010
    Date of Patent: August 20, 2013
    Inventors: William Scott Stano, Scott Davis Pixley
  • Publication number: 20130204172
    Abstract: Orthopedic devices, systems, and methods of using the same are disclosed. In an embodiment, an orthopedic device intended for use with at least one moveable body part of a user may comprise a tubular body forming an interior surface and an exterior surface. The tubular body may include at least one opening and one or more shrinkable materials. The tubular body may be moveable between a first position, wherein the tubular body is configured to at least partially receive and at least partially surround the at least one moveable body part of the user, and a second position, wherein one or more portions of the tubular body are configured to generally conform to and at least partially restrict movement of the at least one moveable body part in one or more directions. The tubular body may be configured to move from the first position to the second position in response to a treatment.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 3, 2012
    Publication date: August 8, 2013
    Inventors: Tate L. Viehweg, Michael Wagstaff
  • Patent number: 8480604
    Abstract: A method of making an orthoses, comprising the steps of preparing a plaster mold, upon which the layers of the orthosis will be placed and formed; and placing layers of material on the mold, then forming and removing the layers. An orthosis, comprising a footplate that is capable of receiving a human foot thereabove, a heel portion at the rear side of the footplate; a strut extending upwardly from the heel portion; a calf portion extending forwardly from the strut, the calf portion including a tibial shell; the tibial shell extends around the front of the user's tibia; a rear portion extends around the back of the user's calf a rear portion disposed rearwardly with respect to the calf portion; and sides such that the calf portion is completely circumferential without seams. Two foam layers line the orthoses for comfort and ease of use.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 6, 2008
    Date of Patent: July 9, 2013
    Inventor: Bill Messer
  • Patent number: 8419668
    Abstract: A compact package for making an orthopedic cast is disclosed. The package comprises a fabric folded and compressed, having an initial over-all surface area, that, when saturated with water, expands to final over-all surface area that is larger by a factor greater than 50 than the initial over-all surface area. The expansion of the fabric occurs during a first time period. The package also includes a water-curable material, impregnated into the fabric, so that when the material is saturated with water, the material cures over a second period of time to become rigid, wherein the second period of time is substantially longer than the first period of time. When the package is used, the fabric impregnated with the material may be immersed in water and expanded. Once expanded and unfolded, the fabric may be placed around a portion of a body for which the orthopedic cast is desired. When the second time period elapses, the material has become rigid so as to form the orthopedic cast.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 1, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 16, 2013
    Inventor: Donald Spector
  • Patent number: 8394045
    Abstract: A hand orthosis supporting a patient's thumb and fingers spaced apart and separated from contact with the palm of the hand, including an elongated body having a palm surface, a thumb portion, and a finger support portion. The elongated body includes a plurality of unequal cross-sectional areas spaced along the axial length between a distal end and a base end. A plurality of finger concavities are angled in helical orientation along the orthosis, including spaced apart concavities for each finger and the patient's thumb. Each finger and thumb concavity is angled non-perpendicular relative to the orthosis axial length to retain the fingers and thumb spaced apart, curved in a relaxed orientation, and apart from the palm of the hand during extended periods of time without impeding hand or wrist motion. A method of extended use for the hand orthosis is also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 22, 2011
    Date of Patent: March 12, 2013
    Inventor: Russell A. Betcher
  • Publication number: 20130053738
    Abstract: The invention relates to a splint (1, 31, 51, 61, 71) for immobilising a joint, which is to be worn at the joint to be immobilised, wherein the splint (1, 31, 51, 61, 71) comprises at least one flat body (2, 32, 52, 52?, 62, 72) that has at least two contact surfaces (3, 4, 33, 34, 53, 54, 63, 64, 73, 74) for limbs adjoining the joint to be immobilised. A supporting member (6, 36, 36?, 36?, 36??, 56, 56?, 68, 78) is provided, which in an outer contour (7, 37, 57, 57?, 68?, 68?, 79) has an angular structure (8, 8?, 38, 38?) for adjusting and bracing an angle between the contact surfaces (3, 4, 33, 34, 53, 54, 63, 64, 73, 74) for the limbs. According to the invention at least two surfaces (13, 13?, 17, 17?; 39, 39?, 39?) arranged in the assembled state of the splint (1, 31, 51, 61, 71) on the faces of the contact surfaces (3, 4, 33, 34, 53, 54, 63, 64, 73, 74) remote from the limbs are provided.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 21, 2011
    Publication date: February 28, 2013
    Inventor: Olaf Kandt
  • Publication number: 20130035622
    Abstract: A splint to be placed on a section of a patient's body, that includes a body element having a bearing surface facing the body section, and an outer surface facing away from the bearing surface, formed from a flat, flexible material. The body element includes a first bearing section and a second bearing section arranged in relation to each other at a splint angle. The support body is elongate and has at least two elongate sections arranged at an angle corresponding to the splint angle between the bearing sections of the body element.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 29, 2012
    Publication date: February 7, 2013
    Applicant: BSN medical GmbH
    Inventors: Patrick Schütz, Koen Jozef Maria Jorissen
  • Patent number: 8357111
    Abstract: A method and system for designing a patient-specific orthopaedic surgical instrument includes coupling a knee sleeve to a leg of the patient. The knee sleeve includes sensors configured to generate sensor data indicate of the position of the respective sensor. The method also include determining angulation data indicative of the angulation of the knee based on the sensor data. The angulation data may be indicative of, for example, the ligament laxity of the knee. The method may also include generating a medical image(s) of the knee. The design of the patient-specific orthopaedic surgical instrument is determined based on the angulation data and the medical image(s).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 30, 2007
    Date of Patent: January 22, 2013
    Assignee: DePuy Products, Inc.
    Inventors: James Caillouette, Jose F. Guzman, Jason T. Sherman
  • Patent number: 8343082
    Abstract: A medical bandaging product, including a non-woven, fibrous, flexible medical material adapted for being applied and conformed to a body part to be supported, and a reactive system impregnated into or coated onto the medical material. The system remains stable when maintained in a non-activated condition in the absence of an activating agent, such as water, and hardens upon activation by exposure to the activating agent to form a rigid, self supporting structure. An enclosure is provided within which the medical material is maintained against exposure to the activating agent until use. The product may be in pre-cut shapes or in roll-form for cutting off a desired length for a given use.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 2, 2006
    Date of Patent: January 1, 2013
    Assignee: BSN Medical, Inc.
    Inventors: John C. Evans, Shitij Chabba, Martin O'Hara
  • Patent number: 8337439
    Abstract: A splint for orthopedics for supporting the affected part of a patient suffering from a fracture or a sprain. A splint includes a support having 500˜1500 g/m2 of polyester non-woven fabric coated with a water-curable resin, an aluminum casing having a combination of polyethylene, aluminum and nylon (or polyester) in a pouch form to completely prevent the permeation of water so as to prevent the affected part from festering due to water, and a skin-protecting layer having polypropylene non-woven fabric and an outer surface layer having 200˜400 g/m2 of polyester, polypropylene or nylon, which are sequentially formed on the support. Unlike conventional splints for orthopedics which include a skin contact layer, a surface layer, and a support therebetween, the splint of the invention has a structure in which the support is directly packed with an aluminum casing, and an outer surface layer and a skin-protecting layer are provided thereon.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 2, 2007
    Date of Patent: December 25, 2012
    Inventor: Jin-Woo Bae