BLOOD FLOW ASSISTING PORTABLE ARM SUPPORT
A portable arm support can be secured to an arm of a patient, for instance during a medical procedure (e.g., filtration of blood of the patient). The arm support can inhibit movement of the arm of the patient in one or more degrees of freedom (e.g., elevation, abduction, adduction, flexion, or the like). In some examples, the arm support includes a cuff and abase. In another example, the arm support includes an elongated member. In yet another example, the arm support includes a constricting band. The arm support can help maintain blood flow in the arm of the patient, and can help protect a catheter inserted into the arm of the patient (or protect other medical equipment proximate to the patient).
This patent application claims the benefit of priority of Lerner et al., U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 62/787,090, titled “BLOOD FLOW ASSISTING PORTABLE ARM SUPPORT,” filed on Dec. 31, 2018 (Attorney Docket No. 4567.026PRV); and Lerner et al., U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 62/787,106, titled “BLOOD FILTRATION SYSTEMS,” filed on Dec. 31, 2018 (Attorney Docket No. 4567.027PRV), the benefit of priority of each of which is claimed hereby, and each of which are incorporated by reference herein in its entirety.
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED PATENT DOCUMENTSThis patent application is also related to the application titled “BLOOD FILTRATION SYSTEMS” by Lerner et al., filed on Dec. 31, 2018 (Attorney Docket No. 4567.027PRV), which is hereby incorporated by reference herein in its entirety.
TECHNICAL FIELDThis document pertains generally, but not by way of limitation, to medical devices.
BACKGROUNDA blood filtration system can provide blood filtration therapy, for instance by removing blood from the blood stream (e.g., venous circulation) of a patient and separating plasma water and electrolytes from erythrocytes red blood cells) and other blood constituents with a filter. The system can convey the filtered blood constituents (e.g., plasma water and electrolytes) to a reservoir (e.g., a bag) for disposal. The balance of the plasma water, the erythrocytes, and other blood constituents are returned to the patient's blood stream. Once blood is withdrawn from the blood stream and makes contact with extracorporeal components of the blood filtration system (e.g., tubing, the filter, or the like), a potential exists for clots to form within the extracorporeal components, leading to an increase in resistance within the components (e.g., the filter), and potentially clogging (e.g., occluding) the components. While not harmful to the patient, the increase in resistance or clotting could necessitate replacement of one or more of the extracorporeal components.
SUMMARYThe present inventors have recognized, among other things, that a problem to be solved can include improving blood flow through extracorporeal (e.g., outside of a body of a patient) components of a blood filtration system. Additionally, the present inventors have recognized, among other things, that a problem to be solved can include reducing compression of veins of the patient. Further, the present inventors have recognized, among other things, that a problem to be solved can include discouraging a patient from moving an arm of the patient. Still further, the present inventors have recognized, among other things, that a problem to be solved can include reducing compression of the extracorporeal components of the blood filtration system.
Sustained occlusion (e.g., partial or complete blockage) of a patient's blood stream (e.g., a vein) can lead to clotting of blood and a loss of the filter or other extracorporeal components (e.g., one or more tubes, a blood circuit, or the like), for instance because flow within the extracorporeal components can be reduced when the location of a catheter changes with respect to the vasculature where the catheter is positioned. In an example, a patient can have a catheter inserted into vasculature, for instance a vein in a peripheral portion of the patient's body (e.g., in a vein within the arm of the patient, for example a basilic vein, cephalic vein, brachial vein, or the like). The vein in the peripheral portion of the patient has a reduced blood flow in comparison to a centrally located vein (e.g., subclavian vein, internal jugular veins, or the like). Additionally, the vein in the peripheral portion of the patient can be occluded and blood flow within the vein can be reduced. For instance, a patient can lay on its arm and accordingly reduce blood flow in the arm (e.g., reduce venous return in the arm). In another example, the patient can bend its elbow (e.g., a flexion movement) and accordingly reduce blood flow in the arm, for instance because a catheter is kinked, or a vein is compressed due to the patient bending its elbow.
Sustained occlusion (e.g., partial or complete blockage) of blood flowing through the extracorporeal components (e.g., a filter or blood transport lines in communication with the filter) can lead to clotting and a loss of the filter or other extracorporeal components. For instance, the patient can move (e.g., roll) onto its side and in the process of moving, compress a blood line in communication with the blood filtration system. Accordingly, patient movement can reduce blood flow in the extracorporeal components and lead to clotting of blood and a loss of the filter or other extracorporeal components.
The present subject matter can help provide a solution to this problem, such as by providing a portable arm support for a patient undergoing a medical procedure. The portable arm support can include a cuff sized and shaped to engage with an arm of the patient. The portable arm support can include a base coupled with the cuff. The base can be configured to engage with the patient or a foundation surface, The cuff and the base cooperate to position the arm of the patient away from a midline of a body (e.g., a midline of a torso) of the patient (e.g., abducting and/or elevating the arm).
The portable arm support can help maintain continuous blood flow through the patient's blood stream, and the extracorporeal components of the blood filtration system. In an example, the portable arm support can encourage the patient to maintain a preferred body position, for example locating the arm of the patient away from a midline of the body of the patient. For instance, the portable arm support can elevate the arm of the patient (e.g., 15 degrees relative to a foundation surface, such as a bed, couch, or the like). Additionally, the portable arm support can abduct the arm of the patient (e.g., locate the arm away from the torso of the patient). Locating the arm of the patient away from the midline of the patient can help improve blood flow within the blood stream (e.g., the basilic vein) and improved blood flow within the blood stream can reduce clotting within the extracorporeal components of the blood filtration system and accordingly improve the performance of the blood filtration system.
This summary is intended to provide a summary of subject matter of the present patent application. It is not intended to provide an exclusive or exhaustive explanation of the invention. The detailed description is included to provide further information about the present patent application.
The patent or application file contains at least one drawing executed in color. Copies of this patent or patent application publication with color drawing(s) will be provided by the Office upon request and payment of the necessary fee.
In the drawings, which are not necessarily drawn to scale, like numerals can describe similar components in different views. Like numerals having different letter suffixes can represent different instances of similar components. The drawings illustrate generally, by way of example, but not by way of limitation, various embodiments discussed in the present document.
The arm support 100 can include a cuff 110, and the cuff 110 can be sized and shaped to engage with the arm 180 of a patient. For instance, the cuff 110 can include an arm recess 120. The cuff 110 can be curved to provide the arm recess 120. Additionally, the cuff 110 can include one or more straps 130 to secure (e.g., attach, couple, affix, fasten, hold, or the like) the cuff 110 to the arm 180 of the patient. A first end (e.g., fixed end) of the strap 130 can be coupled to the cuff 110, and a second end (e.g., a free end) of the strap 130 can be selectively coupled with the cuff 110. For instance, the strap 130 can include a hook and loop fastener, and the hook and loop fastener of the strap 130 can engage with a corresponding hook and loop fastener of the cuff 110 to selectively couple the strap 130 with the cuff 110. The arm 180 of the patient can be positioned in the arm recess 120 and the strap 130 can be engaged around the arm 180 and coupled with the cuff 110 to secure the cuff 110 to the arm 180 of the patient.
The portable arm support 100 can include a base 140, and the base 140 can be configured to engage with the patient (e.g., a torso of the patient) and/or a foundation surface (e.g., a bed, couch, gurney, or the like). For instance, the base 140 can include a body recess 150. The base 140 can be curved to provide the body recess 150. The body recess 150 can receive a portion of the patient (e.g., the torso) and engage with the patient.
The cuff 110 can include a positioning member 160, and the positioning member 160 can extend from the cuff 110. The positioning member 160 can have a curved profile, for example the positioning member 160 can be semicircular in shape (e.g., U-shaped, horseshoe shaped, or the like). In some examples, the positioning member 160 can be adjustably coupled with the base 140 to space the cuff 110 apart from the base 140 and locate the cuff 110 in a specified orientation. For instance, the cuff 110 can be oriented to abduct and/or elevate the arm 180 of the patient when the positioning member 160 is coupled with the base 140. In this example, when the cuff 110 is coupled with the base 140, the positioning member 160 can be sized and shaped to orient the arm recess 120 away from the body recess 150. For instance, the arm recess 120 can open toward a first direction, the body recess 150 can open toward a second direction, and the first direction can be different than the second direction (e.g., 30 degrees, 90 degrees, 180 degrees, or the like). As shown in
As described herein, the cuff 110 can be adjustably coupled with the base 140. Accordingly, the cuff 110 can be repositionable with respect to the base 140 to locate the cuff 110 in a specified orientation, For instance, the positioning member 160 can include a first coupling member 170A (e.g., a hook and loop fastener, adhesive, or the like), and the base 140 can include a second coupling member 17013 that corresponds with the first coupling member 170A to couple adjustably couple the cuff 110 (or the positioning member 160) with the base 140. The coupling members 170A, 170B can selectively couple to allow the cuff 110 to be repositioned with respect to the base 140. In another example, the portable arm support 100 can include snap fasteners that facilitate repositioning the cuff 110 with respect to the base 140.
As described herein, the portable arm support 100 can include the cuff 110 and the base 140. The cuff 110 and the base 140 can cooperate to position the arm 180 away from a midline of a body of the patient. In an example, the portable arm support 100 can abduct the arm 180. In another example, the portable arm support 100 can elevate the arm 180. Positioning the arm 180 away from the midline of the body can improve blood flow within the blood stream (e.g., venous system) of the patient. Improved blood flow within the blood stream can improve blood flow in a blood filtration system (e.g., an ultrafiltration system configured to separate plasma water and electrolytes from erythrocytes). Accordingly, portable arm support 100 improves blood flow in the blood filtration system and reduces clotting to improve the performance of the blood filtration system.
Additionally, the portable arm support 100 can protect a catheter 190 inserted into the arm 180 of the patient. For instance, the patient can move and interact with (e.g., pull on, twist, or the like) the catheter 190 (e.g., if the patient rolls over onto its side). The interaction with the catheter 190 can dislodge the catheter 190 from the arm 180 of the patient and can require the catheter 190 to be reinserted into the arm 180. In another example, the patient can compress the catheter 190 (or the tubing coupled with the catheter 190), and the compression of the catheter 190 can reduce blood flow within the catheter 190 and the blood filtration system. Movement of the arm 180 of the patient can change the location of the catheter 190 (e.g., a catheter tip) with respect to vasculature of the patient (e.g., a wall of a brachial vein). For instance, movement of the arm 180 can cause a tip of the catheter 190 to move from the center of a vein, the tip can engage with a wall of the vein, and the movement toward the wall (or the engagement with the wall) can occlude flow in the arm 180, or a blood filtration system (e.g., extracorporeal components, for instance a blood circuit, a filter, or the like).
The portable arm support 100 (e.g., the cuff 110) can protect (e.g., cover, shield, obscure, or the like) the catheter 190 from being interacted with or compressed. The portable arm support 100 can inhibit dislodging of the catheter 190 or maintain blood flow within the catheter 190. The portable arm support 100 can help reduce movement of the catheter within the vasculature of a patient, for instance to ensure that a tip of the catheter 190 does not move relative to the vasculature of the patient. in an example, movement of the tip of the catheter 190 can occlude blood flow in the catheter 190. Maintaining the location of the catheter 190 with respect to the vasculature of the patient can inhibit occlusion of the catheter 190. Accordingly, the portable arm support 100 (or other portable arm supports described herein, for example the second arm support 200) improves blood flow in the blood filtration system and reduces instances of labor-intensive reinsertion of the catheter 190.
The portable arm support 200 can include a first base section 140A and a second base section 140B. The base sections 140A, 140B include a base section 142 (e.g., a flat bottom, or the like). One or more side members 144 can be coupled with the base section 142, and the side members 144 can extend from the base support, for instance at an angle. In an example, the side members 144 can slant toward each other, for instance to provide a wedge or define the arm recess 120.
The base section 140A can be angled relative to the base section 140B. An angled spacer 220 can be located between the base sections 140A, 140B, and the angled spacer 220 can interconnect the base sections 140A, 140B at a fixed angle. In another example, the base sections 140A, 140B are interconnected with a hinge, and the base section 140A can be configured to pivot relative to the base section 140B. Accordingly, the angle between the base sections 140A, 140B can be variable according to the pivoting of the base sections 140A, 140B. The hinge member 210 can facilitate coupling the cuffs 110A, 110B with the base sections 140A, 140B so that the cuffs 110A, 110B conform to (e.g., match with) the angle between the base sections 140A, 140B.
The base sections 140A, 140B can include coupling members 170. In one example, the coupling members 170 can include hook and loop fasteners that engage with the cuffs 110A, 110B to selectively couple the cuffs 110A, 110B with the base sections 140A, 140B. In another example, the coupling members 170 can include an adhesive, and the adhesive can engage with (e.g., adhere to) the cuffs 110A, 110B to selectively couple the base sections 140A, 140B. In some examples, the base sections 140A, 140B include a non-porous material, and are reusable. The cuffs 110A, 110B can include a cushioning material and can be single-use. In some examples, the cuffs 110A, 110B can inflate, for instance to provide a cushion for the arm 180 of the patient.
As shown in
Additionally, because the base sections 140A, 140B are rigid, the portable arm support 200 maintains the position of the arm 180 of the patient in a specified orientation. When the arm 180 is in the arm recess 120, the portable arm support 200 can prevent arm adduction, and accordingly improve the blood flow of the patient. Further, the portable arm support 200 can help inhibit elbow flexion of the patient and improve the blood flow of the patient. In some examples the arm support 200 can be adapted to be a leg support, and the leg support can inhibit knee flexion or the like.
The base sections 140A, 140B can be combined as a unitary member (e.g., a single piece, the like). The cuffs 110A, 110B can be combined as a unitary member. The cuffs 110A, 110B (or the base sections 140A, 140B) can inhibit the range of motion of the arm 180 of the patient. The cuffs 110A, 110B can include a cushion
The cuffs 110A, 110B can include one or more straps 130, for instance to secure the arm 180 of the patient within the portable arm support 200. In an example each of the cuffs 110A, 110B can include the strap 130. The strap 130 can extend across the arm recess 120. The strap 130 can help discourage a patient from removing their arm 180 from the second portable arm support 200. The second arm support 200 can allow a patient to move their arm 180 within the arm recess 120, for instance to improve patient comfort. The arm support 200 can help maintain the arm 180 within a limited range of motion, while allowing the patient with some degree of movement within the arm recess 120, for instance to improve patient comfort. For example, blood filtration therapy can be conducted over a period of multiple hours, or over a period of multiple days. Allowing a patient to move their arm with the limited range of motion can help improve patient comfort during the blood filtration therapy. Accordingly, the portable arm support 200 can improve the comfort of the patient during blood filtration therapy, and can improve the blood flow in the arm 180 of the patient during therapy, for instance to help reduce or inhibit occlusion of a vein in the arm 180 of the patient (or extracorporeal components of the blood filtration system, for instance a filter or a blood circuit).
The base section 142 and side members 144 can define a patient recess 230. The patient recess 230 can receive a portion of the patient (other than the arm 180), for instance to allow the patient (or a healthcare provider, or the like) to position the portable arm support 200 closer to the patient. The patient recess 230 can be located on a side of the arm support 200, and the arm recess 120 can be located on a top of the arm support 200 (e.g., the patient recess 230 can be offset from the arm recess 120). In an example, a patient's torso can be partially received in the arm recess 230, for instance to allow the patient's arm to be located in a more comfortable (or natural) position. The patient's arm 180 can be received in the arm recess 120 while the patient's torso is received in the patient recess 230.
The catheter 190 can be included in a blood circuit 250, and the blood circuit 250 can be included in a blood filtration system. The blood circuit 250 can include one or more tubes 260, and blood can flow within the tubes 260 during blood filtration therapy. The portable arm support 200 can include one or more blood circuit guides 240. In an example the blood circuit guide 240 can include (but is not limited to) a clip, clamp, recess, notch, hook, protrusion, eyelet, passage, or the like. The blood circuit guide 240 can receive a portion of the blood circuit 250, and the portion of the blood circuit 250 can be captured by the blood circuit guide 240 to help maintain the location of the blood circuit 250 with respect to the portable arm support 200. For example, one or more of the tubes 260 can be captured by the blood circuit guide 240 to prevent the tubes 260 from being tangled, pinched, displaced, or the like. Maintaining the location of the blood circuit 250 with respect to the portable arm support 200 can help improve the performance of the blood filtration system, for instance by preventing an occlusion of the blood circuit 250 due to patient movement.
The portable arm support 300 can include a base 140, and the base 140 can be configured to engage with the patient (e.g., a torso of the patient) and/or a foundation surface (e.g., a bed, couch, gurney, or the like). For instance, the base 140 can abut against the torso of the patient, and rest upon a bed that the patient is lying on (e.g., when the patient is in a supine position). In another example, the base 140 can be coupled with the foundation surface and the arm support 300 (e.g., the base 140 is secured to, or rested upon, a bed). The base 140 can include a flat bottom, and can include side members that can be coupled with the flat bottom. The side members that slant toward each other, for instance to provide a wedge.
The portable arm support 300 can include an elastic member 310, and the elastic member 310 can couple the cuff 110 with the base 140. The elastic member 310 can allow the cuff 110 to be repositioned relative to the base 140. In an example, the portable arm support 300 can include an inflatable member 320, and the inflatable member 320 can displace the cuff 110 relative to the base 140. For instance, the inflatable member 320 can be located between the cuff 110 and the base 140. The inflatable member 320 can be inflated and expand and accordingly cause the cuff 110 to displace relative to the base 140. The elastic member 310 can allow the cuff 110 to displace relative to the base 140 while maintaining the coupling between the cuff 110 with the base 140. Displacing the cuff 110 relative to the base 140 can facilitate adjustment of the location of the arm 180 relative to the midline of the body of the patient, and locate the arm in a specified orientation.
The portable arm support 300 can be secured to the arm 180 of the patient proximate the elbow of (e.g., around) the patient. Securing the portable arm support 300 proximate to the elbow of the patient can prevent elbow flexion (e.g., bending) and help maintain blood flow within the blood stream of the patient. Accordingly, the portable arm support 300 maintains the position of the arm 180 of the patient in a specified orientation. Additionally, when the arm 180 is in the arm recess 120, the portable arm support 300 can prevent arm adduction, and accordingly improve the blood flow of the patient.
The first end 420A can include arm straps 430 that facilitates securing the elongated member 410 to the arm 180 of the patient. The arm straps 430 can include a hook and loop fastener to facilitate coupling the arms straps 430 together (e.g., around the arm 180). Additionally, the arm straps 430 can include an elastic material. The elastic material or the hook and loop fasteners can allow for the arm straps 430 to accommodate arms 180 of varied sizes (e.g., a range of sizes between a child and an adult) to provide an adequate fit.
Additionally, the portable arm support 400 can include a protector 440, for example the protector 440 can be located proximate the first end 420A. The protector 440 can be configured to protect (e.g., cover, shield, obscure, or the like) the catheter 190 (shown in
The protector 440 optionally includes a first spacer 450A and/or a second spacer 450B. In an example, the spacers 450A, 450B can be spaced apart and can straddle the catheter 190 to inhibit interaction with the catheter 190 (e.g., by the patient). In another example, the spacers 450A, 450B can reduce compression of the catheter 190 because the spacers 450A, 450B can absorb compressive forces applied to a region proximate the catheter. For instance, the spacers 450A, 450B can include a padding material (e.g., foam, low durometer material, or the like) that compresses in response to an applied force. In an example, the protector 440 covers the catheter 190 and reduces forces that act upon the catheter 190, for example when the patient moves and lays on its arm 180. As described herein, the portable arm support 400 can be secured to a patient, for example to protect the catheter 190 or position the arm 180 in a specified orientation. In an example, the portable arm support 400 can include a thumb hold 460, and the thumb hold 460 can be located proximate the second end 420B. The thumb hold 460 can be secured to a thumb of the patient, and the elongated member 410 can be wrapped around the patient to position the arm 180 in a specified orientation (including, but not limited to, away from a midline of the body of the patient, for instance, abducting and/or elevating the arm 180). The arm straps 430 can be secured around the arm 180 of the patient (e.g., proximate a bicep or tricep of the patient) to accordingly secure the portable arm support 400 to the arm 180 of the patient. Accordingly, the arm support 400 can be secured to the patient along one or more points (e.g., at a bicep, elbow, wrist, hand, finger, or the like). Additionally, the arm support 400 can be contained to one region of the patient (e.g., above the elbow, below the elbow, at the elbow), or as shown in
Referring again to
In another example, the portable arm support 400 can include a malleable spine within the elongated member 410. For instance, the malleable spine can be located within the reusable insert associated with the elongated member 410. The malleable spine can be formed in a specified shape (e.g., a spiral) and retain the specified shape. In an example, a health care provider can wrap the elongated member 410 around the arm 180 and have the elongated member 410 engage with an elbow of the patient. The malleable spine can maintain the position of the elongated member 410 with respect to the arm 180 patient, for instance when the patient moves its arm 180. For example, the malleable spine can maintain the position of the elongated member 410 proximate the elbow, and thereby reduce elbow flexion of the patient. In an example, the malleable spine can include a metal wire (e.g., copper, aluminum, or the like). In another example, the malleable spine can include a series of rigid links that are interconnected and repositionable with respect to each other (e.g., the rigid links have an interference fit that allows the rigid links to maintain the specified shape).
The portable arm support 500 can include an inflatable member 550, and the pouch 530 can be configured to receive the inflatable member 550. The inflatable member 550 can be inflated (e.g., with air) and expand. The inflatable member 550 can provide a cushion and displace a force applied to the outer wall 540A. Accordingly, the inflatable member 550 can help protect the catheter 190 when the portable arm support 500 is secured to the arm 180 of the patient. Protecting the catheter can inhibit the removal or dislodging the catheter 190 from the arm 180 and reduce the need for labor-intensive reinsertion of the catheter 190.
The arm support 500 can include or define one or more windows 560. In an example, the constricting band 510 can define the windows 560, and the windows 560 can extend through the walls 540A, 540B. The windows 560 can facilitate access to (e.g., viewing interaction with, physical engagement with, or the like) the catheter 190 when the arm support 500 is secured to the arm 180 of the patient. Access to the catheter 190 can be desirable to ensure the catheter 190 is in the intended location, and to observe for potential complications (e.g., bleeding, swelling, bruising, or the like). The inflatable member 550 can include a transparent material or an opaque material that facilitates viewing the arm 180 through the windows 560 when the inflatable member is included in the portable arm support 500. The window 560 can extend through the arm support 500 (e.g., the window can be open, or the like). The window 560 can have a variety of profiles. For example, the window 560 can be defined by the arm support. For example, the window 560 can be surrounded by material for the arm support 500 (e.g., the arm support 500 can enclose all sides of the window 560.
The one or more straps 130 can be coupled to the constricting band 510, for instance the straps 130 can be coupled to the first side 520A. The straps 130 can selectively couple with the constricting band 510 to secure the constricting band 510 to the arm 180 of the patient. For instance, the straps 130 can include hook and loop fasteners that engage with the constricting band 510 to secure the band 510 to the arm 180. The constricting band 510 can be secured to the arm 180
The side 520A of the constricting band 510 can be displaceable relative to the second side 520B, and the displacement of the side 520 relative to the side 520B can provide an arm recess 580 that engages with the arm 180 of the patient. Displacement of the side 520A relative to the side 520B can expand or contract (e.g., vary the size of) the arm recess 580.
In an example, the arm support 500 can be secured to the arm 180 of the patient, for example proximate the elbow of the patient. Locating the arm support 500 proximate the elbow of the patient can help inhibit elbow flexion of the patient and improve the blood flow of the patient. Additionally, the arm support 500 can protect the catheter 190. the catheter 190 from being interacted with or compressed. The portable arm support 100 can inhibit dislodging of the catheter 190 or maintain blood flow within the catheter 190. Accordingly, the portable arm support 100 improves blood flow in the blood filtration system and reduces instances of labor-intensive reinsertion of the catheter 190.
Additionally, the arm support 500 can include the circuit guides 240 that are configured to retain portions of the blood circuit 250 (e.g., withdrawal or infusion lines) of a blood filtration system. The circuit guides 240 can prevent the blood circuit 250 from being compressed, tangled, or the like. Accordingly, the circuit guides 240 facilitate blood flow within the blood circuit 250.
In some examples, the arm support 500 can include one or more constricting regions that are operated (e.g., by a controller including processing circuitry) to expand (e.g., loosen) and contract (e.g., tighten). The expansion and contraction of the constricting regions can peristaltically encourage blood flow (e.g., venous return) in the arm 180 of the patient, for example by increasing blood pressure in the arm 180. In an example, the constricting regions can be located proximal (e.g., at a shoulder or bicep) and distal (e.g., at a forearm or wrist) on the arm 180 of the patient. The constricting regions can be operated to encourage blood flow by increasing the blood pressure in one or more locations of the patient. In another example, a tourniquet can be located near a shoulder and operate in conjunction with the constricting regions to encourage blood flow.
A controller can operate the constricting regions (or the tourniquet) to synchronize constricting regions. In an example, the controller can operate a first constricting region (e.g., by tightening a band, strap, or the like) above an elbow of a patient, and can operate a second constricting region below the elbow of the patient. The controller can operate the constricting regions to tighten the first constricting region and the second constricting region at (or near) the same point in time. In another example, the controller can operate the constricting regions to loosen the first and second constricting regions at (or near) the same point in time. In yet another example, the controller can operate the constricting regions to tighten the first constricting region, while the second constricting region is loosened. In still yet another example, the controller 102 can operate the constricting regions to tighten the second constricting region, while the first constricting region is loosened.
The portable arm support 500 can include one or more heating elements that generate heat. The heating elements can heat the arm 180 of the patient, for instance to increase blood flow in the patient. In an example, the heating elements cause venodilation in the arm 180 of the patient which can increase venous flow in the arm 180.
In another example, the arm support 500 can include a reference point 590. The reference point can be a marking on a surface of the arm support (e.g., a dot, a grid, a barcode, or the like) that can be monitored (e.g., observed by an optical sensor in communication with a controller) to determine a location of the patient, or a location of the arm 180 of the patient. In an example, the reference point 590 can be monitored to determine an orientation of the arm 180 with respect to the patient (e.g., if the arm 180 is elevated, flexed, or the like). In yet another example, the reference point 590 includes one or more position sensors (e.g., an accelerometer, or the like) and the position sensor can be in communication with a controller (e.g., with a wired or wireless communication pathway). The position sensor can monitor the movement of the patient, for example by determining acceleration of a portion of a body of the patient (e.g., an arm). Accordingly, the accelerometer can facilitate determining the location or orientation of the patient, including, but not limited to the arm 180 of the patient.
Further, the portable arm support 600 can include the windows 560. In an example, the constricting band 510 can define the windows 560, and the windows 560 can extend through the walls 540A, 540B. The windows 560 can facilitate access to the catheter 190 when the arm support 500 is secured to the arm 180 of the patient. Access to the catheter 190 can be desirable to ensure the catheter 190 is in the intended location, and to observe for potential complications (e.g., bleeding, swelling, bruising, or the like). A transparent material (e.g. a polymer, for instance plastic) can be included in the window to facilitate viewing the catheter 190 (and the catheter insertion site) while providing protection to the catheter 190 (e.g., protecting the catheter 190 from interaction by the patient).
The portable arm support 700 can include the straps 130, and the straps 130 can facilitate the securing of the portable of the arm support 700 to the arm 180 of the patient. In some examples, the straps 130 can define the window 560. Additionally, the straps 130 can be configured to straddle the catheter 190 and help protect the catheter 190. For instance, the straps 130 can help maintain the location of the catheter 190 with respect to the arm 180 of the patient.
The side 520A of the constricting band 510 can be displaceable relative to the second side 520B, and the displacement of the side 520 relative to the side 520B can provide an arm recess 580 that engages with the arm 180 of the patient. Displacement of the side 520A relative to the side 520B can expand or contract (e.g., vary the size of) the arm recess 580.
Additionally, the portable arm support can include the spacers 620A, 620B, and the spacer 620A can be spaced apart from the spacer 620B. The portably arm support 800 can include a catheter recess 810 located between the spacers 620A, 620B. The catheter recess 810 can be configured to receive the catheter 190. In this example, when the catheter 190 is positioned in the catheter recess 810, the catheter is protected from interaction and/or compression.
Further, the side 520A of the constricting band 510 can be displaceable relative to the second side 520B, and the displacement of the side 520 relative to the side 520B can provide an arm recess 580 that engages with the arm 180 of the patient. Displacement of the side 520A relative to the side 520B can expand or contract (e.g., vary the size of) the arm recess 580.
Still further, the portable arm support 800 can include a cushion 820, and the cushion 820 can be coupled with the strap 130. The cushion can include a padding material (e.g., a foam or other lower durometer material). The cushion 820 can dissipate forces applied to the portable arm support (e.g., by a patient) and protect the catheter 190 (and the catheter insertion site). In some examples, the spacers 620A, 620B can extend from the cushion 820. Still yet further, the spacers 620A, 620B can extend into the arm recess 580 to allow the spacers 620A, 620B to engage with the arm 180.
The portable arm support 900 can include a shell 920, and the shell 920 can include one or more shell segments 930, for example a first shell segment 930A and a second shell segment 930B. In an example, the arm 180 can be inserted into the arm recess 580 of the arm support 900. The first shell segment 930A can be secured above an elbow of a patient (e.g., proximate a bicep or tricep, or the like), and the second shell segment 930B can be secured below an elbow of the patient (e.g., proximate a forearm, or the like). The shell 920 can include a nylon material, and the shell 920 can be rigid, for instance to provide mechanical support to the portable arm support 900.
The portable arm support 900 can include one or more hinges 940, and the hinge 940 can interconnect the first shell segment 930A with the second shell segment 930B. The hinge 940 can facilitate relative motion between the segments 930A, 930B. For example, the segments 930A, 930B can move relative to each other when the portable arm support 900 is secured to the arm 180 of a patient. The patient can move its arm 180 (e.g., flexion, extension, or the like), and the segments 930A, 930B can move with the arm 180. Accordingly, the portable arm support 900 can provide a range of motion for the arm 180 when the support 900 is secured to the arm 180.
The portable arm support 900 can include one or more stops 950, for instance a first stop 950A. The stops 950 can limit the relative motion between the segments 930A, 930B. For instance, the stop 950A can limit the range of motion for the arm 180 when the portable arm support 900 is secured to the arm 180. Limiting the range of motion of the arm 180 can improve the performance of the blood filtration system 910, for example by inhibiting the occlusion of the patient's vasculature, or one or more components of the system 910 (e.g., the catheter 190, the blood circuit 250, a filter or the like). The stops 950 can inhibit flexion of the arm 180, or the stops can inhibit extension of the arm 180.
One or more of the shell segments 930A, 930B can include the stops 950. The stops 950 can project from one or more of the shell segments 930A, 930B to limit the relative motion between the shell segments 930A, 930B. For example, (and as shown in
The arm support 900 can include the biasing member 720, and the biasing member 720 (shown in broken lines in
In an example, a spring biases the shell segments 930A, 930B so that the arm support 900 provides encouragement to the patient to extend the arm 180 (and discourages flexion of the arm 180). In another example, the biasing member 720 includes an elastic member that biases the flaps 710A, 710B together. When the arm support 900 is secured to the arm 180 of the patient, the biasing member 720 helps encourages the patient to extend its arm 180, and thereby helps improve blood flow in the arm 180 and the blood circuit 250.
The portable arm support 900 can be symmetrical, for instance to allow the arm support 900 to be secured to either a left arm, or a right arm. The portable arm support 900 can include one or more adjustment features 960 that facilitate securing the portable arm support 900 to different patients with arms of different sizes. For example, a first adjustment feature 960A (e.g., a clip, plug, projection, hook, or the like) can extend from a portion of the shell segment 930A, for instance the flap 710A. The shell segment 930A can include a second adjustment feature 960B. For example, the second adjustment feature 960B can include one or more through holes defined by the shell segment 930A. The adjustment feature 960A can engage with the adjustment feature 960B to change the size of the portable arm support 900, for instance to change between a small configuration, a medium configuration, and a large configuration. Accordingly, the portable arm support 900 can accommodate patients with arms of varying sizes, and can be secured to the arms having varying sizes.
The portable arm support 900 can include the constricting band 510. For instance, the portable arm support 900 can include the strap 130, and the strap 130 can help secure the arm support 900 to the arm 180. For example, the second shell segment 930B can include the second flap 710B. The strap 130 can engage with (e.g., be threaded through, wrap around, or the like) the second flap 710B to secure the arm support 900 to the arm 180 of the patient.
The portable arm support 900 can engage with the catheter 190, for instance when the catheter 190 is in communication with the vasculature (e.g., in a vein within the arm of the patient, for example a basilic vein, cephalic vein, brachial vein, or the like) of the patient to secure a location of the catheter 190 with respect to the vasculature of the patient (e.g., to maintain the location of a catheter tip with respect to a wall of the vasculature). The portable arm support 900 can help inhibit occlusion of patient vasculature or components of the blood filtration system 910.
The portable arm support 900 can include a removeable cover 970. The removeable cover 970 can be selectively coupled with the shell 920. For example, the cover 970 can include one or more pockets 975, and the pockets 975 can receive portions of the shell 920 and thereby couple the cover 970 with the shell 920. The removeable cover 970 can include a textile material, and the cover 970 can be soft. The shell 920 can include a polymeric material, and the shell 920 can be rigid. A person having ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that terms such as “soft” and “hard” are defined on a spectrum, and that certain materials (e.g., textiles) can be softer than other materials (e.g., plastic). The removeable cover can be patient-specific and can be discarded after a single-use (or use by a single patient). The shell 920 can be reusable, for instance after a sanitization operation.
The portable arm support 900 can include the one or more windows 560. The one or more windows 560 (e.g., through-holes, openings, cut-outs, or the like) can extend through the shell 920 and the cover 970, for instance to provide access to vasculature of the patient (e.g., a portion of the body proximate to a vein, for instance a brachial vein, or the like). Accordingly, the location of the one or more windows 560 can correspond to the location of vasculature of the patient. The catheter 190 can be inserted through the skin at an insertion location 980 (shown in
The portable arm support 900 can maintain the location of the catheter 190 with respect to the vasculature, for instance by engaging with the catheter 190 (or the blood circuit 250). In an example, the arm support 900 can cover the insertion location 980, for instance to protect the insertion location 980 from interaction of the patient with the insertion location 980. The insertion location 980 of the catheter 190 can be located proximate to (or within) the window 560, for instance to facilitate detection of leaks from the insertion location 980. The shell segment 930A can straddle a hub 290 of the catheter 190, to help maintain the location of the hub 290 with respect to the vasculature of the patient. For example, the arm support 900 can help maintain the location of a catheter tip (when inserted into the vasculature) or tubing in communication with the hub 290.
The portable arm support 900 can include the one or more blood circuit guides 240. The blood circuit guides 240 can receive a portion of the blood circuit 250, and the portion of the blood circuit 250 can be captured by the blood circuit guide 240 to help maintain the location of the blood circuit 250 with respect to the portable arm support 200. For example, one or more of the tubes 260 can be captured by the blood circuit guide 240 to prevent the tubes 260 from being tangled, pinched, displaced, or the like.
As described herein, certain patient positions and movements can augment or reduce blood flow in vasculature (e.g., a vein in a limb) and, therefore, into the blood circuit 250 connected to the blood filtration system 910 (e.g., an ultrafiltration device). The system 910 can provide feedback to a patient undergoing blood filtration therapy to encourage the patient to maintain limb position and optimize blood flow in the limb. For example, the blood filtration system 910 can provide feedback to the patient based on one or more physical or physiological parameters or parameters of the system 910 (e.g., resistance in one or more of the withdrawal line or the infusion line, extracorporeal blood flow, intracorporeal blood flow, withdrawal pressure, infusion pressure, respiratory state, real time imaging of the vein, or the like).
In an example, a patient can move its arm, for example, to a non-optimal position (e.g., where the access resistance, or resistance to a flow of blood in the blood circuit, increases). The blood filtration system 910 can provide feedback (e.g., a visual signal, audible signal, haptic signal, or the like) to the patient (or a healthcare provider) to encourage the patient (or healthcare provider) to return the arm 180 to an ideal position for maintenance of blood flow. In another example, the blood filtration system can determine the specified orientation for the arm 180 (e.g., which arm position is best, or a position that enhances blood flow in the limb, or the like) for a specific patient (e.g., using a position sensor or sensors, or the like). The system 910 can encourage the patient to keep their arm in the determined specified orientation. For example, the specified orientation that facilitates maximum blood flow in the vasculature of the patient (and the blood circuit 250) can vary from a first patient to a second patient. For instance, the first patient can have maximum blood flow with its arm in an orientation that includes having its arm 180 flexed at 15 degrees. The second patient can have maximum blood flow with its arm in an orientation that includes having its arm 180 flexed at 20 degrees. The system 910 can determine the specified orientation that facilitates maximum blood flow in the vasculature of the patient, and the system 910 can provide feedback if the patient moves its arm 180 away from the specified orientation.
In an example, the portable arm support 900 can include a feedback device 990 (shown in broken lines in
The feedback device 990 can encourage the patient to maintain a limb at a specified orientation that provides optimal blood flow from the vein to the blood circuit 250 and back to the vein. For example, the feedback device 990 can provide a notification if the patient moves its arm away from its torso. In another example, the feedback device 990 can provide a notification if the patient adducts its arm, or moves its arm in flexion. In yet another example, the feedback device 990 can provide a notification if the patient moves its arm away from the specified orientation (e.g., if the patient elevates its arm beyond 15 degrees, or the like). For instance, the specified orientation of the arm can include the orientation of the arm that facilitates optimal blood flow through the arm 180. The specified orientation of the arm 180 can include locating the patient's arm 180 by their torso, slightly abducted and raised 15 degrees from the horizontal. The system 910 can provide a notification to the patient (e.g., with the feedback device 990) when the patient moves its arm away from the specified orientation (e.g., by lowering its arm 180, or moving its arm in flexion).
In another example, the system 910 can monitor (e.g., with an optical sensor, a flow sensor, or the like) the blood flow through the arm 180 (or a portion of the blood circuit 250) to determine the specified orientation of the arm 180 of the patient. For instance, the system 910 can monitor the blood flow through the arm 180 with the arm located in one or more orientations. For example, the arm 180 can be located at a first arm position (e.g., with the arm 180 elevated 15 degrees). The system 910 can provide a notification to the patient to move its arm toward a second arm position (e.g., with the arm 180 elevated 20 degrees). The system 910 can monitor the blood flow rate in the arm 180 of the patient with the arm 180 in the first arm position and the second arm position. The system 910 can guide the patient toward the specified orientation with the most blood flow in the arm 180. The system 910 can periodically determine the specified orientation that provides optimal blood flow in the arm 180 (e.g., an orientation of the arm that facilitates the highest blood flow rate in the arm 180).
The system 910 can provide a notification to a user when the system 910 determines the patient has moved its arm 180 from the specified orientation. For example, the feedback device 990 can emit a sound when the patient moves its arm 180 away from the specified orientation (e.g., in a manner that could occlude blood flow in the arm 180). In another example, the feedback device 990 can vibrate (e.g., provide haptic feedback) the arm support 900 and notify the patient when the patient moves its arm 180 from the specified orientation. The system 910 can provide a notification if the patient moves its arm 180 and the blood flow rate through the arm 180 decreases. For instance, the system 910 can monitor movement of the arm 180, and if the blood flow rate reduces beyond a flow rate threshold after the patient moved its arm 180, the system 910 can provide a notification to the patient to return its arm 180 to the specified orientation that facilitates blood flow in the arm 180.
The feedback device 990 can allow for the arm support 900 to provide an increased range of motion to the arm 180 (while limiting the range of motion of the arm 180). As described herein, the stops 950 can limit the relative motion between the segments 930A, 930B. The feedback device 990 can allow the arm support 900 to provide an increased range of motion to the arm 180 (while still limiting the range of motion of the arm 180) because the feedback device 990 can encourage the patient to maintain its arm in a specified orientation. For example, the feedback device 990 can provide feedback when the patient moves its arm in flexion, for instance if the arm 180 is bent more than 15 degrees. The feedback can continue if the patient maintains its arm 180 in a position other than the specified orientation. The stops 950 can provide a limit to the range of motion of the arm 180, for instance when the patient disregards the feedback provided by feedback device 990.
The feedback provided by the feedback device 990 (e.g., with a notification) can increase in correspondence to the patient moving its arm away from the specified orientation. For example, a vibration force can increase in intensity as the patient moves its arm in flexion. In another example, the feedback device 990 can vibrate in response to the patient moving its arm 180 within a first range of motion (e.g., arm flexion between 15 degrees and 30 degrees, or the like), and the feedback device 990 can emit a sound (e.g., a chime, beep, tone, or the like) when the patient moves its arm within a second range of motion (e.g., between 30 degrees and 45 degrees, or the like). The stops 950 can provide a third range of motion and inhibit the patient from moving its arm beyond a specified movement threshold (e.g., beyond 45 degrees, or the like). Accordingly, the feedback device 990 can cooperate with stops 950 to allow the arm support 900 to encourage the patient to maintain its arm 180 in the specified orientation while limiting the range of motion of the arm 180. The components, features, elements, and functions of the portable arm supports 100, 200, 300, 400, 500, 600, 700, 800, 900 described herein can be combined in one or more combinations or sub-combinations.
VARIOUS NOTES & EXAMPLESAspect 1 is a portable arm support configured to limit a range of motion of an arm of a patient when the portable arm support is secured to the patient, comprising: a rigid shell sized and shaped for securing to the arm of the patient, wherein the rigid shell inhibits flexion of the arm of the patient when the portable arm support is secured to the arm of the patient; a removeable cover configured for selective coupling with the rigid shell; and a window extending through the rigid shell and the removeable cover, wherein the window provides access to vasculature of the patient when the arm support is secured to the patient.
In Aspect 2, the subject matter of Aspect 1 optionally includes wherein the arm support is configured to engage with a catheter in communication with the vasculature of the patient to maintain a location of the catheter with respect to the vasculature of the patient.
In Aspect 3, the subject matter of any one or more of Aspects 1-2 optionally include wherein the rigid shell includes: a first shell segment; a second shell segment; and a hinge interconnecting the first segment with the second segment and facilitating relative motion between the first shell segment and the second shell segment; and wherein the portable arm support is configured to limit the relative motion between the first shell segment and the second shell segment.
In Aspect 4, the subject matter of Aspect 3 optionally includes wherein the first shell segment is configured for securing above an elbow of the patient, and the second shell segment is configured for securing below the elbow of the patient.
In Aspect 5, the subject matter of any one or more of Aspects 3-4 optionally include a stop included in at least one of the first shell segment or the second shell segment, wherein the stop is configured to limit the relative motion between the first segment and the second segment.
In Aspect 6, the subject matter of Aspect 5 optionally includes wherein the stop is configured to limit the relative motion between the first segment and the second segment to inhibit flexion of the arm when the arm support is secured to the arm of the patient.
In Aspect 7, the subject matter of any one or more of Aspects 5-6 optionally include wherein the stop is a first stop, and further comprising a second stop that inhibits extension of the arm when the arm support is secured to the arm of the patient.
In Aspect 8, the subject matter of any one or more of Aspects 5-7 optionally include wherein: the stop projects from the second shell segment and is located proximate to the hinge, and the stop is configured to engage with a portion of the first shell segment to limit the relative motion between the first segment and the second segment.
In Aspect 9, the subject matter of any one or more of Aspects 3-8 optionally include wherein the portable arm support is a constricting band, the first shell segment includes a first flap, the second shell segment includes a second flap, and the portable arm support includes an arm recess configured to receive the arm of the patient.
In Aspect 10, the subject matter of Aspect 9 optionally includes a biasing member coupled between the first flap and the second flap; and wherein the biasing member is configured to bias the first flap toward the second flap when a first end of the arm support is displaced relative to a second end of the portable arm support.
In Aspect 11, the subject matter of any one or more of Aspects 1-10 optionally include wherein removeable cover includes a textile material.
In Aspect 12, the subject matter of any one or more of Aspects 1-11 optionally include wherein the rigid shell includes a polymeric material.
In Aspect 13, the subject matter of any one or more of Aspects 1-12 optionally include wherein the removeable cover includes a pocket configured to receive a portion of the shell to couple the cover with the shell.
In Aspect 14, the subject matter of any one or more of Aspects 1-13 optionally include one or more straps configured to constrict the arm support to secure the arm support to the arm of the patient.
In Aspect 15, the subject matter of any one or more of Aspects 1-14 optionally include a biasing member configured to bias the arm support toward an extended configuration.
In Aspect 16, the subject matter of any one or more of Aspects 1-15 optionally include a feedback device that provides a sound or vibration notification to the patient when the patient moves its arm away from a specified orientation.
Aspect 17 is a portable arm support configured to limit a range of motion of an arm of a patient when the portable arm support is secured to the patient, comprising: a first base section; a second base section angled relative to the first base section; one or more side members defining an arm recess configured to receive the arm of the patient; a patient recess configured to receive a portion of the patient other than the arm of the patient; and a cuff configured to secure the arm of the patient within arm recess of the portable arm support.
In Aspect 18, the subject matter of Aspect 17 optionally includes a blood circuit guide configured to capture a portion of a blood circuit to maintain the location of the blood circuit with respect to the portable arm support.
In Aspect 19, the subject matter of Aspect 18 optionally includes wherein the blood circuit guide is coupled to the first base section or the second base section and is located at an end of the portable arm support.
In Aspect 20, the subject matter of any one or more of Aspects 17-19 optionally include wherein the portable arm support is configured to position the arm of the patient away from a midline of a body of the patient.
In Aspect 21, the subject matter of any one or more of Aspects 17-20 optionally include wherein the cuff includes a strap configured to extend across the arm recess.
In Aspect 22, the subject matter of any one or more of Aspects 17-21 optionally include wherein the cuff includes a cushion.
Aspect 23 is a portable arm support for a patient undergoing a medical procedure, comprising: a cuff sized and shaped to engage with the arm of the patient; a base coupled with the cuff, wherein the base is configured to engage with the patient or a foundation surface; and wherein the cuff and the base cooperate to position the arm of the patient away from a midline of a body of the patient.
In Aspect 24, the subject matter of Aspect 23 optionally includes wherein the cuff is repositionable with respect to the base.
In Aspect 25, the subject matter of any one or more of Aspects 23-24 optionally include an inflatable member located between the cuff and the base, wherein inflation of the inflatable member displaces the cuff relative to the base.
Aspect 26 is a portable arm support for a patient undergoing a medical procedure, comprising: an elongated member; a cushion located about the elongated member; a thumb hold located proximate to a first end; and a protector located proximate to a second end of the elongated member, the protector configured to cover an insertion site of a catheter.
In Aspect 27, the subject matter of Aspect 26 optionally includes wherein the protector includes: a first spacer extending from a surface of the protector; and a second spacer extending from the surface of the protector, wherein the second spacer is spaced apart from the first spacer to provide a catheter recess, the catheter recess configured to receive the catheter.
Aspect 28 is a portable arm support for a patient undergoing a medical procedure, comprising: a constricting band including an inner wall, the constricting band having first and second sides; and wherein the first side is displaceable relative to the second side and displacement of the first side relative to the second side provides an arm recess.
In Aspect 29, the subject matter of Aspect 28 optionally includes an inflatable member included in the constricting band.
In Aspect 30, the subject matter of any one or more of Aspects 28-29 optionally include wherein the arm recess is expandable with displacement of the first side relative to the second side.
In Aspect 31, the subject matter of any one or more of Aspects 28-30 optionally include wherein the first side is biased toward the second side.
In Aspect 32, the subject matter of any one or more of Aspects 28-31 optionally include at least one strap, the strap configured to expand or contract the arm recess.
In Aspect 33, the subject matter of any one or more of Aspects 28-32 optionally include a first spacer extending from the inner wall; and a second spacer extending from the inner wall, wherein the second spacer is spaced apart from the first spacer to provide a catheter recess, the catheter recess configured to receive the catheter.
In Aspect 34, the subject matter of any one or more of Aspects 28-33 optionally include a first flap; a second flap; a biasing member coupled between the first flap and the second flap; and wherein the biasing member is configured to bias the first flap toward the second flap when a first end of the arm support is displaced relative to a second end of the arm support.
In Aspect 35, the subject matter of any one or more of Aspects 28-34 optionally include at least one window included in the arm support.
In Aspect 36, the subject matter of Aspect 35 optionally includes the window includes a translucent or transparent material.
Aspect 37 can include or use, or can optionally be combined with any portion or combination of any portions of any one or more of Aspects 1 through 36 to include or use, subject matter that can include means for performing any one or more of the functions of Aspects 1 through 36.
Each of these non-limiting aspects can stand on its own, or can be combined in various permutations or combinations with one or more of the other aspects.
The above description includes references to the accompanying drawings, which form a part of the detailed description. The drawings show, by way of illustration, specific embodiments in which the invention can be practiced. These embodiments are also referred to herein as “examples.” Such examples can include elements in addition to those shown or described. However, the present inventors also contemplate examples in which only those elements shown or described are provided. Moreover, the present inventors also contemplate examples using any combination or permutation of those elements shown or described (or one or more aspects thereof), either with respect to a particular example (or one or more aspects thereof), or with respect to other examples (or one or more aspects thereof) shown or described herein.
In the event of inconsistent usages between this document and any documents so incorporated by reference, the usage in this document controls.
In this document, the terms “a” or “an” are used, as is common in patent documents, to include one or more than one, independent of any other instances or usages of “at least one” or “one or more.”0 In this document, the term “or” is used to refer to a nonexclusive or, such that “A or B” includes “A but not B,” “B but not A,” and “A and B,” unless otherwise indicated. In this document, the terms “including” and “in which” are used as the plain-English equivalents of the respective terms “comprising” and “wherein.” Also, in the following claims, the terms “including” and “comprising” are open-ended, that is, a system, device, article, composition, formulation, or process that includes elements in addition to those listed after such a term in a claim are still deemed to fall within the scope of that claim. Moreover, in the following claims, the terms “first,” “second,” and “third,” etc. are used merely as labels, and are not intended to impose numerical requirements on their objects.
Geometric terms, such as “parallel”, “perpendicular”, “round”, or “square”, are not intended to require absolute mathematical precision, unless the context indicates otherwise. Instead, such geometric terms allow for variations due to manufacturing or equivalent functions. For example, if an element is described as “round” or “generally round,” a component that is not precisely circular (e.g., one that is slightly oblong or is a many-sided polygon) is still encompassed by this description.
The above description is intended to be illustrative, and not restrictive. For example, the above-described examples (or one or more aspects thereof) can be used in combination with each other. Other embodiments can be used, such as by one of ordinary skill in the art upon reviewing the above description. The Abstract is provided to comply with 37 C.F.R. § 1.72(b), to allow the reader to quickly ascertain the nature of the technical disclosure. it is submitted with the understanding that it will not be used to interpret or limit the scope or meaning of the claims. Also, in the above Detailed Description, various features can be grouped together to streamline the disclosure. This should not be interpreted as intending that an unclaimed disclosed feature is essential to any claim. Rather, inventive subject matter can lie in less than all features of a particular disclosed. embodiment. Thus, the following claims are hereby incorporated into the Detailed Description as examples or embodiments, with each claim standing on its own as a separate embodiment, and it is contemplated that such embodiments can be combined with each other in various combinations or permutations. The scope of the invention should be determined with reference to the appended claims, along with the full scope of equivalents to which such claims are entitled.
Claims
1-36. (canceled)
37. A portable arm support configured to limit a range of motion of an arm of a patient when the portable arm support is secured to the patient, comprising:
- a rigid shell sized and shaped for securing to the arm of the patient, wherein the rigid shell inhibits flexion of the arm of the patient when the portable arm support is secured to the arm of the patient, the rigid shell including: a first shell segment; a second shell segment; a hinge interconnecting the first shell segment with the second shell segment and facilitating relative motion between the first shell segment and the second shell segment; and wherein the portable arm support is configured to limit the relative motion between the first shell segment and the second shell segment;
- a removeable cover configured for selective coupling with the rigid shell; and
- a window extending through the rigid shell and the removeable cover, wherein the window provides access to vasculature of the patient when the arm support is secured to the patient.
38. The portable arm support of claim 37, wherein the arm support is configured to engage with a catheter in communication with the vasculature of the patient to maintain a location of the catheter with respect to the vasculature of the patient.
39. The portable arm support of claim 37, wherein the first shell segment is configured for securing above an elbow of the patient, and the second shell segment is configured for securing below the elbow of the patient.
40. The portable arm support of claim 37, further comprising a stop included in at least one of the first shell segment or the second shell segment, wherein the stop is configured to limit the relative motion between the first segment and the second segment.
41. The portable arm support of claim 40, wherein the stop is configured to limit the relative motion between the first segment and the second segment to inhibit flexion of the arm when the arm support is secured to the arm of the patient.
42. The portable arm support of claim 40, wherein the stop is a first stop, and further comprising a second stop that inhibits extension of the arm when the arm support is secured to the arm of the patient.
43. The portable arm support of claim 40, wherein:
- the stop projects from the second shell segment and is located proximate to the hinge, and
- the stop is configured to engage with a portion of the first shell segment to limit the relative motion between the first segment and the second segment.
44. The portable arm support of claim 37, wherein the portable arm support is a constricting band, the first shell segment includes a first flap, the second shell segment includes a second flap, and the portable arm support includes an arm recess configured to receive the arm of the patient.
45. The portable arm support of claim 44, further comprising:
- a biasing member coupled between the first flap and the second flap; and
- wherein the biasing member is configured to bias the first flap toward the second flap when a first end of the arm support is displaced relative to a second end of the portable arm support.
46. The portable arm support of claim 37, wherein the removeable cover includes a textile material.
47. The portable arm support of claim 37, wherein the rigid shell includes a polymeric material.
48. The portable arm support of claim 37, wherein the removeable cover includes a pocket configured to receive a portion of the shell to couple the cover with the shell.
49. The portable arm support of claim 37, further comprising one or more straps configured to constrict the arm support to secure the arm support to the arm of the patient.
50. The portable arm support of claim 37, further comprising a biasing member configured to bias the arm support toward an extended configuration.
51. The portable arm support of claim 37, further comprising a feedback device that provides a sound or vibration notification to the patient when the patient moves its arm away from a specified orientation.
Type: Application
Filed: Dec 30, 2019
Publication Date: Nov 11, 2021
Inventors: David Lerner (St. Paul, MN), David J. Haskvitz (Maple Grove, MN), Yukiko Naoi (New York, NY), Jeffrey Kapec (Westport, CT), Rebeccah Pailes-Friedman (Brooklyn, NY), Paul Reamey (Brooklyn, NY), Evan Huggins (Brooklyn, NY), Ryu Tomita (Brooklyn, NY)
Application Number: 17/309,298
