Patents by Inventor Thomas P. Branch

Thomas P. Branch has filed for patents to protect the following inventions. This listing includes patent applications that are pending as well as patents that have already been granted by the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO).

  • Publication number: 20040171973
    Abstract: An inflatable bladder position a distance from a joint is attached to an external structural support which crosses the joint but does not support it. By inflating the bladder one limb segment is forced towards the external support thereby increasing the ranges of motion of that joint. Further, the inflatable bladder has an instant release valve which, when pressed, will instantly release the pressure within the bladder. The limb is positioned intermediate the bladder and the external structural support for optimal biomechanical efficiency.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 19, 2003
    Publication date: September 2, 2004
    Inventor: Thomas P. Branch
  • Patent number: 6669660
    Abstract: An inflatable bladder position a distance from a joint is attached to an external structural support which crosses the joint but does not support it. By inflating the bladder one limb segment is forced towards the external support thereby increasing the ranges of motion of that joint. Further, the inflatable bladder has an instant release valve which, when pressed, will instantly release the pressure within the bladder. The limb is positioned intermediate the bladder and the external structural support for optimal biomechanical efficiency.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 8, 2001
    Date of Patent: December 30, 2003
    Inventor: Thomas P. Branch
  • Publication number: 20030130600
    Abstract: Methods and apparatuses for providing range of motion control devices, and particularly relates to an apparatus for providing control of the range of motion of a human shoulder.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 13, 2002
    Publication date: July 10, 2003
    Inventor: Thomas P. Branch
  • Publication number: 20030120186
    Abstract: An orthotic apparatus for use in providing improved range of motion is provided which allows the amount of stretch to be hydraulically powered and measured by the device, but controlled by the user. Because the apparatus accurately calculates the amount of stretch, the user, together with the user's physician and therapist, can develop a rehabilitation plan based on accurate measurements. Progress is based on tangible results rather than the user's ability to tolerate pain. This knowledge provides the incentive the user needs to work toward and achieve the user's goal.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 15, 2002
    Publication date: June 26, 2003
    Inventors: Thomas P. Branch, Alex Sattler
  • Publication number: 20030018340
    Abstract: A system is disclosed for stabilizing a cannula or tube which provides access into the body during a laparoscopic or an arthroscopic procedure. One or more fastening tubes or cannula are attached adjacent to a central tube or working cannula. Elongate fastening members are passed through the fastening cannula and are attached to bone which stabilizes the working cannula. This stabilization allows the surgeon to operate through the working cannula without concern that the cannula apparatus will be displaced. Furthermore, one of the wires can be detached and the cannula system rotated about the remaining secured fastener with the first fastener being re-attached at a new location. This technique allows the surgeon to place implants at uniform distances from one another without the cannula apparatus losing contact with the bone.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 28, 2002
    Publication date: January 23, 2003
    Inventor: Thomas P. Branch
  • Publication number: 20010018565
    Abstract: An inflatable bladder position a distance from a joint is attached to an external structural support which crosses the joint but does not support it. By inflating the bladder one limb segment is forced towards the external support thereby increasing the ranges of motion of that joint. Further, the inflatable bladder has an instant release valve which, when pressed, will instantly release the pressure within the bladder. The limb is positioned intermediate the bladder and the external structural support for optimal biomechanical efficiency.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 8, 2001
    Publication date: August 30, 2001
    Inventor: Thomas P. Branch
  • Patent number: 5520691
    Abstract: Methods and apparatuses are described for attaching tendons, ligaments, or other tissue to bone, which includes the use of adjustable head members positioned along filament members. Also disclosed are methods and apparatuses for mending breaks in tissue such as skin or meniscal layers tissue such as skin or meniscal layers skin by use of similar elements.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 13, 1994
    Date of Patent: May 28, 1996
    Inventor: Thomas P. Branch
  • Patent number: 5372146
    Abstract: Methods and apparatuses are described for attaching tendons, ligaments, or other tissue to bone, which includes the use of adjustable head members positioned along filament members. Also disclosed are methods and apparatuses for mending breaks in tissue such as skin or meniscal layers tissue such as skin or meniscal layers skin by use of similar elements.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 6, 1990
    Date of Patent: December 13, 1994
    Inventor: Thomas P. Branch
  • Patent number: 5370661
    Abstract: Provided is a method for attaching tissue to a bone, which includes the use of a filament member and a head member which engages the filament member and holds a tissue in place. Also provided is a device and method for repairing a break in tissue, which indicates the use of a filament member and at least one member which engages the filament member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 12, 1993
    Date of Patent: December 6, 1994
    Inventor: Thomas P. Branch