Abstract: An undergarment for use with a cast tape to form a hip spica cast, such as a pantaloon-type hip spica cast. The cast includes at least one layer of a 3D spacer synthetic padding material formed into a fabric of monofilament yarns and fabricated into an anatomically correct undergarment structure for being positioned around a torso and residing directly against the skin of a hip spica cast patient. At least one fabric perineal panel is attached to the undergarment in the perineal area of the undergarment and adapted for being positioned between the patient and an overlying cast material defining a perineal opening in the cast.

Abstract: An orthopedic rail system which has a first component with a receiving element and a second component with a connection end for connecting to the receiving element. The receiving element has two opposing stop walls, and the connection end has two opposing lateral walls. The receiving element and the connection end can be connected to each other by at least one connection element such that the lateral walls rest against the stop walls in the connected state. The stop walls and the lateral walls each taper towards each other in a conical manner.

Abstract: A cranial deformation correction helmet (2) having a shell (4), which retains necessary strength and hardness, but can be sufficiently lightweight, and a method capable of producing such a cranial deformation correction helmet (2) with sufficient rapidity and at low cost, are provided. To produce the helmet (2), a non-foamed synthetic resin shell (4) is shaped by selective laser sintering, and then a foamed synthetic resin liner (6) is disposed on the inner surface of the shell (4). The relative density of the shell (4) is 90 to 98%.

Abstract: The invention contemplates use of remote ischemic conditioning in the treatment of erectile dysfunction.

Abstract: The present invention discloses a colostomy appliance consisting of two pouches, in which one pouch is designed to collect the faecal waste, and the other pouch is designed to receive the above pouch. The first pouch can be easily inserted into the second pouch and removed from the second pouch when it is fully loaded by waste. The liner pouch is made of plastic material which is flushable and biodegradable. The outer pouch is made of laminated breathable PE and nonwoven material, allowing for increased comfort and functionality of collecting waste next to an individual's abdomen. The outer pouch is sprayed on the inside with odour control compound to mitigate the faecal odour. Both the two pouches are designed for ease of use. Wearers can easily carry and replace the inner pouch in public facilities and the materials used for the pouch are silent ensuring discreetness during movement.

Abstract: A method of treating snoring and/or OSA in a subject in need of such treatment. The method includes crosslinking proteins of the subject's soft palate tissue or pharynx tissue. The crosslinking can occur by contacting the soft palate or pharynx tissue with a crosslinking reagent. In addition, the crosslinking can occur without heating, contracting or denaturing of the tissue, or any combination thereof.

Abstract: A retainer with a block extending downwards from an otherwise generally flat surface is disclosed. The block corresponds to a region of one or more of the cuspids or pre-molars. A side block or other device on the upper retainer also abuts a wing or other abutment device of a lower retainer, causing the lower jaw to be pushed forward relative to the upper jaw and resting position (regular organic closing position) of the upper and lower jaw together. Thus, the upper teeth are pushed forward and a space is created between the teeth behind the (lower) block preventing an apnea during sleep.

Abstract: An intrauterine device includes a central support member, first and second internal flexures and first and second external flexures. The first and second internal flexures each include a first section having a first stiffness, a second section having a second stiffness, and third section having a third stiffness, wherein the second stiffness is more flexible than the first and third stiffness and wherein the first section of each internal flexure is coupled to the central support member. The first and second external flexures are coupled to the central support member and coupled to the third sections of the first and second internal flexures, the first and second external flexures in combination with the first and second internal flexures being configured to extend from a collapsed position parallel to the central support member to a deployed position flexing away from the central support member.

Abstract: A pneumatic cooling device including a housing having a first end and a second end. A handle extends from an outer surface of the housing. An inlet is positioned at substantially the first end of the housing and is configured to receive a supply of medical grade air into the housing. An outlet is positioned at substantially the second end of the housing and is configured to deliver the supply of medical grade air outside of the housing. A pathway extends through the housing between the inlet and the outlet and is configured to passively move the supply of medical grade air between the inlet and the outlet.

Abstract: An undergarment for the treatment of Fibromyalgia is provided. The undergarment is shaped to be worn about the torso of a patient and the undergarment includes a plurality of electrical heating elements secured to the undergarment, each of the plurality of electrical heating elements positioned at a location substantially coincident with a Fibromyalgia trigger point of the patient. The use of the undergarment allows the patient to be active while continually receiving therapeutic treatment for the discomfort caused by Fibromyalgia.

Abstract: The present disclosure provides methods to improve the performance of heat exchangers used in thermoelectric cooling/heating devices, wherein improved heat conduction between heat exchanger and thermal exchange fluid is accomplished. Additionally, a method is disclosed to minimize the necessary delay used to protect the thermoelectric modules against thermal shock when switching from heat to cold, or vice versa. Thermal shock can damage thermoelectric modules when the direction of current passing through the modules is instantly switched.

Abstract: A heatable and coolable therapeutic device provides a soothing sensation to areas of pain on a person's body. The device includes a first ball. The first ball is spaced from a second ball. Each of the first and second balls has a hollow interior. A spacer is coupled to and extends between the first ball and the second ball. The first ball, the second ball and the spacer define a cohesive unit. A heat-retentive material is positioned in the hollow interior of each of the first ball and the second ball. The heat-retentive material maintains a selectable one of an elevated temperature and a decreased temperature relative to ambient temperature over an extended period of time.

Abstract: An intraocular lens insertion device includes: a plunger that extrudes a deformable intraocular lens into an eye along an extrusion axis, the deformable intraocular lens including an optical part and one or a plurality of support parts extending outward from a periphery of the optical part; an installation part in which the intraocular lens is installed in a state where at least one support part is placed closer to a proximal end side of the extrusion axis than the optical part; and an off-axis movement part that presses the support part of the intraocular lens installed in the installation part from a direction different from the extrusion axis to deform and move the support part.

Abstract: A cannula insertion system configured to divide a cannula insertion process into a two-step process. The first step advances a needle portion a first distance and the second step advances the needle portion a second distance. The first step and the second step may be at different angles. At least one of the angles may be less than 90°. At least one of the steps may be mechanically assisted.

Abstract: Embodiments of method of manufacturing an implantable pump, including providing an upper layer comprising a dome structure for housing a drug chamber and a cannula in fluid communication with the drug chamber, providing a middle deflection layer adjacent the drug chamber, providing a bottom layer comprising electrolysis electrodes, and bonding the upper layer, middle deflection layer, and bottom layer to form the pump.

Abstract: A laser probe with a replaceable optic fiber may include a reusable handle, a reusable housing tube, a reusable handle adapter, a reusable machine adapter, and a replaceable optic fiber. The handle adapter may interface with a proximal end of the handle. The machine adapter may interface with a surgical machine. The replaceable optic fiber may include an optic fiber having a first optic fiber end and a second optic fiber end, a first connector, and a second connector. The optic fiber may be disposed within the first connector and the second connector. The first connector may be temporarily fixed within the handle adapter and the second connector may be temporarily fixed within the machine adapter.

Abstract: The present invention relates to an eye-protector assembly. The assembly includes arcuate-shaped protective cover. The assembly includes an eye-covering member pivotably connected to the protective cover. The protective cover is shaped to receive the eye-covering member when the eye-covering member is pivoted towards the cover. The assembly includes a pair of connector mechanisms for selectively coupling the protective cover to a hearing protector.

Abstract: An implanted microphone is provided that allows for isolating an acoustic response of the microphone from vibration induced acceleration responses of the microphone. The present invention measures the relative motion between a microphone diaphragm, which is responsive to pressure variations in overlying media caused by acoustic forces and acceleration forces, and a cancellation element that is compliantly mounted within a housing of the microphone, which moves primarily in response to acceleration forces. When the microphone and cancellation element move substantially in unison to acceleration forces, relative movement between these elements corresponds to the acoustic response of the microphone diaphragm. This relative movement may be directly measured using various optical measuring systems.

Abstract: An earpiece, earphone, earbud or earplug includes an inflatable element operatively attached to a distal end by an inflation channel, and an anti-distal end of the inflation channel that provides a pressuring force via fluid transfer of a fluid to maintain an expansion of the inflatable element. The inflatable element can be pressurized to a gauge pressure range between 0.05 bar and 3.0 bar. In some embodiments, the inflatable element is pressurized to a gauge pressure range from 0.3 bar to 0.25 bar and maintains such gauge pressure range for at least 12 hours. In some embodiments, the inflatable element uses a material of a predetermined permeability for a given density of fluid and a given thickness of the inflatable element such that an inflation pressure drops from 1.2 atmospheres to 1 atmospheres in 8 hours after the inflatable element is pressurized to 1.2 atmospheres. Other embodiments are disclosed.

Abstract: An anisotropic wound drape for treating a wound on a patient includes a flexible sheet for placing over a tissue site. The flexible sheet includes a first isotropic zone, and a second isotropic zone. The first isotropic zone and the second isotropic zone are configured to provide the flexible sheet with anisotropic stretching properties. The anisotropic drape may used as part of a reduced-pressure wound treatment system. Other systems and methods are also presented.

Abstract: The disclosed medical dressing is highly flexible and conformable over skin, while maintain strong adhesive securement to skin over extended periods of time. The dressing comprises a backing layer, support material, and a plurality of specifically placed slits in the support material, which allow for stretching and recovery of the backing layer.

Abstract: A reduced-pressure system for treating a tissue site on a patient includes a distribution manifold that adheres to a tissue site to allow retention without external support. The distribution manifold includes a porous member and a tissue-fixation element. The tissue-fixation element maintains the porous member substantially adjacent to the tissue site while a sealing member is applied. In one instance, the tissue-fixation element is a soluble adhesive that partially covers either the tissue-facing side of the porous member or a tissue-facing side of a fluid-permeable substrate layer that is on the tissue-facing side of the porous member. Other systems, distributions manifolds, and methods are presented.

Abstract: A tampon has a pair of longitudinally extending side edges and an absorbent member. The absorbent member has an insertion area, a withdrawal area, and an intermediate area between the insertion area and the withdrawal area and an attachment area. The absorbent material has a plurality of fiber integrated nonwoven layers but are without fiber integration adjacent layers outboard of the attachment area. A withdrawal line extends from the withdrawal area and is attached to the absorbent member in the attachment area such that each of the plurality of absorbent layers is attached to an adjacent nonwoven layer in the attachment area.

Abstract: A surgical device that absorbs fluid material on a surface of a cannula comprises a handle, and an absorbent portion coupled to a first end of the handle. The absorbent portion comprises a plurality of absorbent discs separated by at least one spacer. The plurality of absorbent discs and the at least one spacer are disposed about a post, and the at least one spacer is restrained from axial movement relative to the post.

Abstract: A wearing article includes a front waist panel, a rear waist panel and a crotch panel having an absorbent structure wherein respective inner end edges of the front and rear waist panels cooperate with both side edges of the crotch panel extending in a longitudinal direction to define peripheries of a pair of leg-openings. The crotch panel is provided with a pair of elasticized leg sheets joined to both side edges of the absorbent structure and extending in a longitudinal direction. Each of the elasticized leg sheets having a non-elasticized region adjacent to the absorbent structure and an elasticized region adjacent to the non-elasticized region so that the non-elasticized region rises along the associated side edge of the absorbent structure to the associated leg-opening and the elasticized region extends outward in a transverse direction of the wearing article so as to form the associated leg-opening.

Abstract: The present invention aims to provide a disposable pull-on diaper improved so that the diaper may be conveniently put on the wearer's body. Each of leg side flaps of a crotch panel has an outer side region and an inner side region. In the lowest region of the crotch region, the outer side region and the inner side region respectively have a dimension of at least 10 mm in a transverse direction wherein the inner side region extends in a longitudinal direction and the outer side region extends in the transverse direction from the inner side region.

Abstract: An absorbent article of the present invention may comprise a topsheet, an outer cover, and an absorbent core disposed therebetween. The outer cover may comprise an extrusion bonded laminate. The EBL may comprise a multi-layer coextruded elastomeric film and a nonwoven. The film may comprise a core layer, a first outer layer, and a second outer layer, wherein the core layer is between the first and second outer layers. The nonwoven may comprise fibers and/or filaments. The first outer layer may be non-adhesively joined to the nonwoven via extrusion coating. Further, the outer cover may be elastic to at least about 50% engineering strain. The nonwoven may have high chemical affinity for the first outer layer. The first outer layer may have a low chemical affinity for the core layer; and the multi-layer coextruded elastomeric film may have a basis weight no greater than about 40 gsm.

Abstract: Disposable absorbent products are stacked along a stacking axis. Each of a first plurality of folded disposable absorbent products is folded into at least two panels so as to define first and second ends and front and back oppositely-facing exterior faces of each of the first plurality of folded products, with the respective front faces of the first plurality of folded products facing a common, first direction. At least one folded disposable absorbent product is folded substantially in the same manner as the first plurality of folded products to thereby define first and second ends and front and back oppositely-facing exterior faces of that at least one folded product, with the front face of that at least one folded product facing a second direction opposite from the first direction.

Abstract: A diaper has a diaper body, two straps and at least one strap hook-and-loop fastener. The diaper has an absorbent portion, a front covering portion connected with the absorbent portion, at least one body hook-and-loop fastener mounted on the front covering portion, and a rear covering portion connected with the absorbent portion. The straps are elongated and are respectively connected with two sides of the rear covering portion. The at least one body hook-and-loop fastener is selectively attached to the outer side of one of the straps. The at least one strap hook-and-loop fastener is mounted on one of the inner side and the outer side of one of the straps, and the at least one strap hook-and-loop fastener is selectively attached to the other strap. Therefore, the diaper can be suitable for different users of different waist sizes.

Abstract: The absorbent article provides a signal viewable from the top surface of the absorbent article. This signal includes a colored portion having a first shade and a second shade.

Abstract: In one embodiment, a wheelchair drive mechanism adapted to mount to a wheelchair includes a drive lever adapted to be rotated forward and rearward by a user of the wheelchair, a clutch mechanism associated with the drive lever, wherein actuation of the clutch mechanism causes the drive lever to be coupled to a wheel of the wheelchair such that they rotate together, and a clutch actuation device provided on the drive lever that is operable by the wheelchair user to actuate the clutch mechanism.

Abstract: By programming position parameters corresponding to user support surfaces of a power driven wheelchair, movement of the user support surfaces is automated. The user support surfaces can be positioned individually, as part of a sequence or as part of a series of sequences. Accordingly, with little effort, a user can position the user support surfaces of the wheelchair to a predefined position.

Abstract: The height of a platform relative to a support surface is adjustable by rotating a drive shaft to actuate a first height-adjusting device and a second height-adjusting device, thereby changing the height of the respective ends of the first and second height-adjusting devices relative to the support surface. The drive shaft is selectively drivable by either a drive motor or a manually-operable drive.

Abstract: An adjustable support device adjustable by an electric motor, for supporting padding of seating or reclining furniture has an outer frame and a base body having at least two support parts. The two support parts are adjustable relative to one another. An adjustment element, which is in drive connection with a drive unit, is associated with at least one of the adjustable support parts. The adjustment element is a pivot lever which is pivotable under the traction effect of a pull cable of a Bowden cable, and the pivot lever is pivotably connected to the associated support part, and is supported on a support situated on the outer frame. Or the pivot lever is pivotably connected to the outer frame, and with its free end forms a support for the support part to be adjusted.

Abstract: A support belt assists caretaker in moving an ambulatory-impaired person. A strap has a plurality of attachment fixtures such as grommets that are longitudinally spaced and has a buckle for engaging the strap around a torso of an individual. The connector is engageable between a selected two of the attachment fixtures to draw one portion of the strap to closely encircle the ambulatory-impaired person and to form another portion of the strap into a grasping loop. A second support belt can be attached to the strap by two or more belt connector in order to double the portion of the torso encircled or to support buttocks or thigh of the ambulatory-impaired person.

Abstract: An electrical connection system that can feed power, signal, data, and communication lines into a rotating or static patient support system in an infant warming device.

Abstract: A shock and vibration system for an infant care transport system with an enclosed infant care device. The shock and vibration system utilizes multiple damping systems that create a floating patient support system that allows the infant care device to move in the various axes of motion instead of being rigidly mounted to the frame or sub-frame, or any substructure.

Abstract: An integrated and movable video and/or still camera is integrated into a warming therapy device to allow caregivers to point the camera in an area of interest in which they are interested in recording or displaying the patient located on a support surface. The system may include an audio recording device.

Abstract: Provided is an inexpensive device capable of accurately positioning a medical instrument relative to the head of a user. A head positioning device (7) is used. The head positioning device (7) is provided with: a pair of holding members (11, 12) which holds the face of a user from both sides by elasticity and prevents both the forward tilting of the user's head and the rotation of the neck; a neck rest (13) which comes into contact with the back side of the user's neck and determines the position of the neck in the front-rear direction; and a head-back rest (14) which comes into contact with the back of the head and which prevents the head from tilting backward.

Abstract: A supporting frame and a motion assistance apparatus including the same may be provided. In particular, the supporting frame including a first frame including a hinge connecting portion, a second frame configured to slidingly move with respect to the first frame, and an assistance force sensing portion on at least one of the first frame and the second frame may be provided.

Abstract: In a hand exoskeleton device, according to a three-layered sliding spring mechanism, the motion of the device is changed by a single drive mechanism to transmit power to the metacarpophalangeal, proximal and distal interphalangeal joints of a human finger, thereby enabling support of the daily activity motions of the finger. According to the hand exoskeleton device, when compared with a conventional device, there can be realized a device which is small in size and weight and is capable of supporting the gripping motions of the human finger. The hand exoskeleton device is characterized in that the three joints of the finger can be bent and extended by the single drive mechanism and it can transmit large drive power. Further, the device body is flexible, thereby enabling safe movement.

Abstract: An exercise apparatus adapted to hang from an overhead structure used for providing walking and ambulation assistance to users in aid of exercise and physical rehabilitation. The device has a pulley assembly adapted for anchoring directly to an overhead structure or indirectly by a track secured thereto, and includes a hoist line permitting manual force to be used to raise and lower a sling assembly that is secured in the underarms of the user for lifting.

Abstract: An apparatus provides micromechanical forces on a wound bed to accelerate healing of a wound. The apparatus includes a pressure chamber having a substantially airtight plunger and an inlet fluidly connected to a first end of a conduit. A constant force spring is operatively connected to apply a constant force to the plunger. A suction cup is in fluid communication with a second end of the conduit.

Abstract: A compression device has improved cooling capability. The device includes a wicking layer adapted to move moisture. A portion of the wicking layer is exposed from under bladder material defining a bladder. In use, the wicking layer wicks moisture from the patient's limb and the wicked moisture is able to evaporate through the device at the portion of the wicking layer that is exposed.

Abstract: A device that stimulates and aids penis jelqing, or penis milking massage, is disclosed. The device enhances the jelq exercise because it comprises an ergonomic shape that holds and keeps the penis in position by gripping it around the base and squeezing it to make a stroking jelqing motion.

Abstract: The invention relates to a massage device comprising a device housing, with electromechanical means arranged in the housing for generating mechanical vibrations, along with electronic means arranged in the housing for activating the means for generating mechanical vibrations, and with a power source, connected to the means for generating mechanical vibrations and the electromechanical means, wherein the means for generating mechanical vibrations comprise at least one coil element and at least one ferromagnetic core arranged parallel or coaxial with the coil element and movably guided parallel to a cylinder axis, characterized in that the core has a mass m1, the mass ratio m1:m2 of which to the total mass m2 of the massage device is in the range from 1:100 to 1:3.

Abstract: Small high efficiency motors in order to produce large amounts of power must be operated such that they are running at high speed outside the desired vibration range for sexual stimulation. Accordingly, designs allowing for the appropriate gearing to allow heavy weights to be spun with small diameter and high efficiency whilst not increasing the outer diameter of an adult device are disclosed. Beneficially embodiments of the invention provide users with adult devices providing high impact (amplitude) vibration in a range of physical geometries compatible with providing internal and/or external stimulation which can also be offered at low cost and/or low manufacturing cost with extended operating life. Additionally, design flexibility via axial designs, non-axial designs, flexible drive designs, aperiodic drive designs, and linearly driven designs provide design solutions for implementing vibrators with low cost, high impact, targeted frequency characteristics, increased efficiency, and increased power.

Abstract: Disclosed in this document are devices and methods for creating temporary enclosures made substantially of wood or cellulose based materials that are unadulterated or not processed with foreign chemicals, wherein the enclosure is capable of supporting a bulb assembly to form a temporary sauna. One embodiment of the temporary enclosure is a near infrared sauna system that supports a near infrared heat source and maintains adequate temperature. The infrared sauna system exposes a person sitting inside the enclosure to the comfort and benefits of a near infrared sauna. In this document, innovative elements combine to create a temporary building structure that overcomes the need for nails, screws and other external tools previously necessary when using unadulterated materials, such as poplar wood and bamboo.

Abstract: A biological sample containment system that includes a biological specimen collection container for collecting a biological sample and a label for the container is disclosed. In one embodiment, the label includes a first or front side and a second or rear side having a readable information portion. The label is affixable to the container by the second side and with the label affixed to the container, the readable information portion on the second side is readable through a portion of the container. By including readable information on the second or rear side of the label, the amount of readable information that can be included on the label is increased by using the previously unused rear side of the label.

Abstract: Device for receiving and draining a high quantity of biopharmaceutical fluid under pressure includes an inner bag, having an inner container for receiving the fluid and provided with a filling port, a drain port, a filling tube having a filling inlet for connection to a filling line, a drain tube having a drain outlet for connection to a drain line, an outer container in which the bag is placed, a compression chamber between the outer container and the bag, an injection port for injecting pressurized draining gas into the chamber, sealed bushings passing through the container via the filling and drain tubes, the deformation capacities of the bag and container being such that, when the draining gas is injected into the chamber, the bag is compressed and the biopharmaceutical fluid is emptied. The outer container includes a receptacle forming the outer chamber, the tubes passing therethrough via permanently fixed connections.