Abstract: Devices, systems and methods develop pressure forces to fixate or brace tissue in targeted pharyngeal structures and individual anatomic components within the pharyngeal conduit.

Abstract: A system is provided by applying pressure to a portion of a body of an individual in a chamber having an aperture along a vertical axis for receiving the portion of the body of the individual. A pressure sensor is coupled to the chamber for measuring a pressure inside the chamber. A negative feedback control system, calibrates, adjusts and maintains the pressure inside the chamber.

Abstract: A physical fitness system incorporating aspects of scuba diving and hyperbaric pressure therapy is described. An enclosure, such as a cage or elevator, is selectively placed in a body of water, such as an ocean, lake, river, or pool, wherein one or more individuals can remain or exercise (e.g., scuba dive) there, for a sufficient period of time and for a sufficient number of times in order to realize a health benefit, such as reduced weight, reduced blood pressure, increased metabolic rate, increased energy levels, and/or the like. Additionally, hyperbaric pressure therapy can also be employed in conjunction with the use of the enclosure. For example, the enclosure, such as a swimming pool, can be situated in a selectively sealable structure. The structure is first sealed and then the pressure inside the structure is raised to a sufficient level to produce a hyperbaric pressure state therein.

Abstract: A device for increasing, monitoring, and measuring perspiration water and solid loss at reduced ambient pressure, comprising a sealed chamber capable of maintaining less than atmospheric pressure for an extended period of time and a gasket-sealed door accessing the chamber. The chamber provides a controlled hypobaric environment for treatment of various medical conditions. Internal controls of ambient pressure inside, temperature, humidity, oxygen, CO2 and other environmental conditions within the chamber are included, as well as a mechanism for recovering perspiration water loss from an occupant of the chamber. Methods for determining the perspiration volume of water and solid loss experienced by an occupant in the chamber are also disclosed including a computer program for determining quantity of sweat produced by the occupant of the chamber on a continuous basis. An algorithm allowing for continuous calculations of sweat loss and fluid replacement requirements of the occupant of the chamber is disclosed.

Abstract: Embodiments of the invention include a method and a device for increasing vasodilatation and/or controlling the temperature of a mammal by applying a desired vacuum pressure to the skin of the extremity of a mammal. In some cases it is also desirable to provide heat to regions of the extremity of the mammal to further dilate the veins or arteries in the patient. In some cases it is also desirable to apply a contact pressure to regions of the extremity of the mammal to improve perfusion of these regions. In one embodiment, the device includes a device that is adapted to rigidly enclose a portion of an extremity of the mammal therein so that a sub-atmospheric pressure can be applied to the mammal's extremity, which is further discussed below.

Abstract: A hyperbaric capsule has a base forming a seat that can be enclosed by an elongate oval canopy having a large transparent window formed therein. The bottom of the front of the canopy is pivotally attached to the front of the base by a hinge assembly and can be locked in the closed position on the base by a plurality of latches that are conjointly operated by an external lever and an internal lever. The weight of the canopy upon opening is borne by a pair of side gas or spring struts.

Abstract: A hyperbaric oxygen device and methods of applying hyperbaric oxygen are disclosed. The device comprises an enclosure including a collapsible bag defined by two sheets of fluid impervious material sealed together at both ends such that gas can be delivered between the sheets to inflate the enclosure to a rigid state and maintain the enclosure in the rigid state when oxygen pressure in the interior of the enclosure is cycled between ambient pressure and above ambient pressure.

Abstract: A controller is operable to selectively supply gas to, and evacuate gas from, regions of a hyperbaric wound treatment chamber. The controller operates to inflate a passage or rib of the device to provide that the device is made sufficiently rigid for inserting a limb therethrough, and inflate an inflatable cuff to create a seal against the limb. The controller also operates to evacuate ambient air trapped within the chamber, and optionally partially evacuate the passage or rib, after the seal is created by the inflatable cuff, and then introduce oxygen into the chamber, and optionally inflate the passage or rib. The cuff, when inflated and creating a seal against a limb, optionally is at least partially within the chamber, and the treatment gas is supplied to the chamber to maintain the seal of the cuff against the limb.

Abstract: A controller is operable to selectively supply gas to, and evacuate gas from, regions of a hyperbaric wound treatment chamber. The controller operates to inflate a passage or rib of the device to provide that the device is made sufficiently rigid for inserting a limb therethrough, and inflate an inflatable cuff to create a seal against the limb. The controller also operates to evacuate ambient air trapped within the chamber, and optionally partially evacuate the passage or rib, after the seal is created by the inflatable cuff, and then introduce oxygen into the chamber, and optionally inflate the passage or rib. The cuff, when inflated and creating a seal against a limb, optionally is at least partially within the chamber, and the treatment gas is supplied to the chamber to maintain the seal of the cuff against the limb.

Abstract: A treatment for the persons infected with viruses such as HIV. The method takes advantage of the anesthetic membrane effect brought about by certain gases under pressure. A patient infected with HIV, for example, is placed in a pressurized chamber and exposed to one or more gases under pressure in this environment, molecules or compounds bind to specific attachment sites on surfaces of host cells and on the virus. These attachment sites are the same sites that are required by the virus to attach to host cells during the virus's replication process. The result is that viruses are prevented from replicating. In the case of HIV, without replication, the virus is also prevented from mutating. This deleterious effect on the virus allows the body's immune system to reconstitute itself in numbers sufficient to cause clinical remission.

Abstract: The present invention provides a leisure fitness equipment with oxygen-supplying function, comprising a leisure fitness device, an oxygenerator and a control device, said oxygenerator is fixed or detachably connected to said leisure fitness device, said leisure fitness device and said oxygenerator are controllable by said control device. The present invention has a compact structure, have a function of oxygen-supplying in addition to leisure or fitness, and it is suitable for family use and for public places such as entertainment sites, physical training centers or hospitals.

Abstract: A variable pressure chamber is provided for operation at hypobaric or hyperbaric pressure. The variable pressure chamber comprises a substantially air-tight enclosure having a sufficient volume to enclose a patient, a sealable opening adapted to provide access to the enclosure, a closure mechanism adapted to seal the sealable opening, a reversible compressor fluidly connected to the enclosure and an outlet flow modulator. A method of treatment of a subject in need thereof using the variable pressure chamber is also provided.

Abstract: A hyperbaric oxygen therapy system includes a pressure vessel containing a gas, an oxygen concentration measurement apparatus for monitoring the concentration of oxygen in the gas, an environmental control apparatus for controlling the temperature of the gas in the vessel, and a pressure/ventilation control apparatus for controlling the pressure of the gas in the vessel. The pressure vessel is capable of accommodating a patient. The oxygen concentration measurement apparatus includes an oxygen concentration analyzer and a plurality of gas lines connecting the oxygen analyzer to the pressure vessel. The pressure/ventilation control apparatus includes a pressure controlling valve, a pressure sensor, a ventilation valve, and a controller having a programmable pressure profile. The environmental control apparatus includes a scrubber, a heat exchanger and a blower located within the pressure vessel. A compressor for the system includes a compressor silencer.

Abstract: A plethysmograph is constructed with a base including parallel, horizontal guide rails; an open-ended, moveable enclosure section having a horizontal central axis slidable on the guide rails between open and closed positions; a fixed enclosure section mounted on the base transverse to the horizontal pathway, the fixed enclosure section including an inner face toward the open end of the enclosure section adapted for sealing engagement with the open end of the moveable enclosure section when the moveable enclosure section is in its closed position; and a support table attached to the fixed section, the table projecting into the moveable enclosure section when the moveable enclosure section is in the closed position, the table being vertically adjustable and having an angularly adjustable longitudinal axis.

Abstract: A ventilation system is adapted to synchronize the delivery of both positive pressure ventilation and negative pressure ventilation to a patient. The ventilation system is structured to produce a positive pressure flow of gas which is delivered to the patient's airway and a negative pressure flow of gas which is converted into a negative extrathoracic pressure. The negative extrathoracic pressure is communicated to the patient in synchronism with the delivery of the positive pressure flow of gas.

Abstract: A hyperbaric oxygen therapy system includes a pressure vessel containing a gas, an oxygen concentration measurement apparatus for monitoring the concentration of oxygen in the gas, an environmental control apparatus for controlling the temperature of the gas in the vessel, and a pressure/ventilation control apparatus for controlling the pressure of the gas in the vessel. The pressure vessel is capable of accommodating a patient. The oxygen concentration measurement apparatus includes an oxygen concentration analyzer and a plurality of gas lines connecting the oxygen analyzer to the pressure vessel. The pressure/ventilation control apparatus includes a pressure controlling valve, a pressure sensor, a ventilation valve, and a controller having a programmable pressure profile. The environmental control apparatus includes a scrubber, a heat exchanger and a blower located within the pressure vessel. A compressor for the system includes a compressor silencer.

Abstract: A low pressure hyperbaric chambers and methods of using same are disclosed. The present invention provides means for designing, building, and using low pressure chambers suitable for use in managing pain associated with medical conditions.

Abstract: A latching mechanism for a pressure chamber for hypobaric use is disclosed. The mechanism includes one or more pin modules positioned on a periphery of a door of the pressure chamber, the door being adapted to open into the chamber and abut a frame of the pressure chamber when the door is in a closed position. The mechanism further includes an actuator for selectively engaging or disengaging the pin with the frame. The pin module may include a pin adapted to be selectively positioned in an engaged or a disengaged position. The pin in the engaged position extends from the door to the frame of the pressure chamber, thereby preventing the door from opening into the chamber. The pin module includes a cylinder for actuating the pin. The cylinder may be a pneumatic cylinder operated with pneumatic pressure. The pneumatic cylinder of each of the pin modules may be centrally actuated.

Abstract: An incubator for premature and newborn patients is provided with a heater (6), and a fresh air flow (13) fed in with oxygen metering, characterized in that the incubator has an electrically operated oxygen concentrator (12), and an oxygen sensor (5) for measuring the oxygen concentration in the incubator, wherein the oxygen metering device (7) meters the oxygen released by the oxygen concentrator (12) into the fresh air flow (13) fed into the incubator.

Abstract: A method and portable apparatus for providing low oxygen therapy to an individual. The invention teaches the use of a small portable breathing gas control system to adjust the gas concentrations going to a subject's face mask.

Abstract: A device for aiding in stimulating blood flow in a sexual organ of a user leading to erection. The device includes a chamber adapted to receive and enclose a user's body from adjacent the waist of the user to adjacent the upper thighs. A source of vacuum is applied to the chamber for creating a negative pressure within the chamber while permitting the user's arms to be extended into the chamber for manipulating the sexual organ.

Abstract: A personal isolation apparatus includes: a hood for covering a patient's body; a filter device connected to the hood having filters for removing SARS virus or other microorganisms as laden in the air streamflow as sucked from the hood by an exhaust fan; and at least an ultraviolet lamp formed between the hood and the filter device for killing or destroying the SARS virus or other microorganisms as laden in the air streamflow as sucked from the hood, thereby preventing infection of SARS and other diseases as infected by the microorganisms.

Abstract: A system and method for passive hypoxic training provides a person with a low oxygen (hypoxic) environment. Oxygen sensors automatically monitor and control oxygen levels to maintain the altitude desired. CO2 levels are monitored and CO2 is eliminated so that the air a person breathes is substantially clean and fresh. Exposure to a high altitude environment produces physiological changes in a person's body, which becomes more efficient at absorbing and transporting oxygen. Using the present method and system, athletes obtain the benefits of sleeping at a simulated altitude in the user's own home for six to twelve hours, rather than traditional altitude therapies in which athletes spend two to three weeks at high altitude before an athletic competition to obtain similar benefits. This system allows for “live high train low” altitude training that has been shown in controlled studies to provide superior benefits to “live high train high” training.

Abstract: The present invention enables functional testing nearly all aircrew equipment including a COMBAT EDGE (combined advanced technology enhanced design “G” ensemble) system components which include a mask, a G-suit, communication systems, and a goggle. The present invention includes a gas system which includes an input filter, a first compressor comprising at least one blower, preferably three blowers connected in series, a second compressor, a first flow sensor a second flow sensor, a first flow valve, a second flow valve, a regulator, a first pressure sensor, a second pressure sensor, a first pressure valve, a second pressure valve, and a controller. The inlet filter designed to accept a chemical filter. The second compressor produces a lower flow at a higher pressure than the first compressor.

Abstract: An anti-g pressure regulator functions, in conjunction with a pressurized anti-g suit during high g loads, to supply O2 to a pilot's face mask during the inhalation phase with the O2 pressure rising from a predetermined minimum to a predetermined maximum as determined by the g load to increase the volume of O2 supplied to the pilot's lungs. During the exhalation phase the pressure is allowed to fall from the maximum to the minimum to reduce the stress experienced by the pilot during exhalation thereby enabling the pilot to tolerate high g loads. Optionally, the pressure of gas supplied to the anti-g suit may be controlled in a nonlinear manner with respect to the anticipated range of g-loads to improve the pilot's performance during exposure to intermediate g-loads.

Abstract: A device for artificial respiration without the aid of masks, particularly for neonates and premature infants, comprising a frame that is provided with a first environment for accommodating the head of a patient and with a second environment that forms a resting surface for the back of the patient, the first and second environments being separated hermetically, and the first environment being sealed hermetically and being provided with at least one port for connection to a ventilation unit, the second environment further containing an abutment surface that can be arranged according to the length of the trunk of the patient.

Abstract: A low pressure hyperbaric chambers and methods of using same are disclosed. The present invention provides means for designing, building, and using low pressure chambers suitable for use in managing pain associated with medical conditions.

Abstract: A system and method for passive hypoxic training provides a person with a low oxygen (hypoxic) environment. Oxygen sensors automatically monitor and control oxygen levels to maintain the altitude desired. CO2 levels are monitored and CO2 is eliminated so that the air a person breathes is substantially clean and fresh. Exposure to a high altitude environment produces physiological changes in a person's body, which becomes more efficient at absorbing and transporting oxygen. Using the present method and system, athletes obtain the benefits of sleeping at a simulated altitude in the user's own home for six to twelve hours, rather than traditional altitude therapies in which athletes spend two to three weeks at high altitude before an athletic competition to obtain similar benefits. This system allows for “live high train low” altitude training that has been shown in controlled studies to provide superior benefits to “live high train high” training.

Abstract: The invention is a personal therapy compartment with an attached hood. The hood portion has curved nested sections that extend to a closed position to cover a major portion of the space above a user's head and retracts to an open position.

Abstract: A portable method and apparatus for allowing an individual to pre-adjust at sea level for future high altitudes is taught. The invention teaches the use of a small portable breathing gas control system to adjust the gas concentrations going to a subject's facemask.

Abstract: The present invention is a wound treatment kit assembly for the washing, cleansing, medicinal treatment and maintenance of a wound side on the limb or torso of a patient. The kit has a plurality of flexible body component-treating bag-like envelopes, attachable to a body component; a hand manipulable fluid delivery gun; a plurality of wand-like conduits having a first end for connective attachment to the fluid delivery gun and a second end for entry into the bag-like envelope; a fluid reservoir; and a plurality of flexible delivery conduits for conducting fluid from the reservoir to the hand manipulable gun when bag-like envelope is secured to a component of a patient and the gun is in fluid communication with the bag-like envelope.

Abstract: A hyperbaric oxygen chamber for allowing the user of the chamber to breathe pure oxygen while sleeping or relaxing. The hyperbaric oxygen chamber includes a chamber structure having a base and a cover, a vent system in the base of the chamber structure for permitting the gas to move in and out of the chamber structure, a valve assembly for use with the vent system, a control panel, a lighting assembly, and a support structure.

Abstract: A hyperbaric oxygen patient treatment system generally comprises and inflatable enclosure for encasing a patient having at least partially contained therein an inflatable mattress system. By integrating the therapeutic functions of the inflatable mattress system within the hyperbaric chamber the simultaneous provision of hyperbaric oxygen and skin treatment therapies is made possible. A control system is provided to maintain desired patient interface pressures throughout the provision of hyperbaric treatment. Features are disclosed for maximizing patient comfort while ensuring the ability to fully monitor and treat the patient during therapy. A thixotropic may also be used as part of the pressure relieving portion of the mattress system.

Abstract: A hyperbaric oxygen therapy system having a vertically-oriented pressure vessel and a generally rectangular door opening. The hyperbaric oxygen therapy system also includes a door frame sealingly attached to the door opening and a door panel. The door panel has a shape complementary to that of the door frame and is movable between an open position away from the door opening and a closed position adjacent to the door opening. A door support mechanism is attached to the pressure vessel and movably supports the door panel between the open position and closed position. The hyperbaric oxygen therapy system also includes an interlocking mechanism movable between a locked position when the door panel is in the closed position, wherein the interlocking mechanism extends between and secures the door panel and the door frame, and an unlocked position wherein the interlocking mechanism is retracted from one of the door panel and door frame.

Abstract: An anesthesia induction chamber for small animals having a chamber defined by a bottom wall, a pair of opposing side walls, a front end wall, a rear door mounted on a hinge, and a top cover attached to a side wall by an elongated piano hinge. The walls, rear door and top cover are impermeable to gases. The front end wall has a gas inlet port to which a gas source, such as an anesthesia machine, may be attached. The rear door includes a vent port which is adapted to receive a scavenger or other device for removing carbon dioxide or other gaseous waste from the chamber. The chamber has a first partition wall disposed to slide through one of the side walls adjacent the rear door so that a small animal may enter the chamber through the open rear door and subsequently be confined in the chamber by sliding the first partition wall closed. A second partition wall may be inserted to reduce the size of the chamber.

Abstract: A modular hyperbaric chamber for treatment of at least one patient that includes at least one spacer module having a first flange and a second flange. The spacer module may be formed from a plurality of sections, with each section including opposing lip portions to form air-tight junctions. A first half cylinder module includes a first peripheral contact edge for releasable sealed connection to the first flange of the spacer module. Similarly, a second half cylinder module includes a second peripheral contact edge, for releasable sealed connection to the second flange of the spacer module. An access door, formed in at least one of the half cylinder modules provides access to the interior of the chamber. The overall size of a hyperbaric chamber may be conveniently increased by inserting additional spacer modules between the half cylinder modules.

Abstract: A method of increasing efficiency and/or decreasing the cytotoxic effect of a human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) reproduction-suppressing drug such as Azidothimidin (AZT) involves administering the drug to an HIV-positive patient and subjecting the patient to hyperbaric oxygenation (HBO).

Abstract: A cuirass type ventilator compresses a shell member having a peripheral edge and a sealing device secured to the peripheral edge, the sealing device compressing a scaling member depending from the peripheral edge of the shell, the sealing member having a sealing region for sealing against a patient's body, a securing region whereat the sealing member is secured to the shell and a resilient pleated region intermediate the sealing region and securing region whereby, in use, the resilience of the pleated region urges the sealing region into scaling engagement with a patient's body.

Abstract: A portable, collapsible hyperbaric chamber. A toroidal inflatable skeleton provides initial structural support for the chamber, allowing the attendant and/or patient to enter the chamber. Oval hatches mate against bulkhead rings, and the hyperbaric chamber is pressurized. The hatches seal against an o-ring, and the internal pressure of the chamber provides the required pressure against the hatch to maintain an airtight seal. In the preferred embodiment, the hyperbaric chamber has an airlock to allow the attendant to enter and exit the patient chamber during treatment. Visual communication is provided through portholes in the patient and/or airlock chamber. Life monitoring and support systems are in communication with the interior of the hyperbaric chamber and/or airlock chamber through conduits and/or sealed feed-through connectors into the hyperbaric chamber.

Abstract: A hyperbaric resuscitation system (10) includes a hyperbaric chamber (20) having a volume sufficient to enclose a human patient (1) and at least two operating personnel (60). The system (10) also includes a device for pressurizing the hyperbaric chamber (20) to at least 1.5 atmospheres with air. The concentration of oxygen in high pressure, oxygen-rich gas to be breathed by the patient (1) provided by an independent system (41) at chamber pressure is automatically regulated by a regulating system (33) which receives information about the amount of oxygen in cerebral tissue of the patient (1) from a spectrophotometer (51, 52). Although devices for measuring the exact amount of oxygen in cerebral tissue do not yet exist, the presently available devices can show trends in the amount of oxygen in the tissue. Since the physician working on a patient in a hyperbaric resuscitation system is more concerned about trending than exact values, the present system can still be of great benefit in resuscitating patients.

Abstract: An improved compressor system (10) designed for use with a patient assist medical ventilator is provided which includes a compressor (12) and a pressurized gas delivery conduit (14); a hollow fiber membrane dryer (16) is interposed within the conduit (14) for final dehumidification of the pressurized gas and suppression of the dew point thereof In preferred forms, the membrane dryer output air may be recycled via a conduit (50) to the compressor (12) during phases of the system operation, so that such dried, pressurized air may be mixed with ambient air and fed to the compressor (12).

Abstract: An apparatus for enclosing a portion of a patient in need of surgery to define an enclosure in which a positive air pressure is introduced to decrease blood loss during surgery. This apparatus may be used to provide a generally sterile field and to decrease blood loss during surgery.

Abstract: An artificial respirator employs rotating chambers to modulate pressure from a unidirectional fluid source. The chambers are defined by a core rotating in a shell. The core includes an internal divider and a back wall. The core also includes a shaft coupled to a motor. The motor is mounted on the shell via screws.