Abstract: Methods and percutaneous devices for assessing, and treating patients having sympathetically mediated disease, involving augmented peripheral chemoreflex and heightened sympathetic tone by reducing chemosensor input to the nervous system via percutaneous carotid body ablation.

Abstract: A head positioning device for use in radio therapy is described for positioning a patient's head. The head positioning device comprises a head plate for supporting a patient's head; a base plate for connection to a mechanical couch; and a head plate adjustment assembly connecting the head plate to the base plate wherein the head plate adjustment assembly is arranged to vary the relative pitch, yaw and roll of the head plate relative to the base plate. The head positioning device is arranged to be attached to a mechanical couch with the head plate and the head plate adjustment assembly cantilevered off the end of the couch and the head plate adjustment assembly suspended beneath the head plate and the base plate.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a patient immobilisation device for positioning a patient in the prone position for breast irradiation, comprising a cephalic module for supporting the head and upper extremities of the patient, a thoracic module for supporting the patient thorax, and shaped to allow at least one breast to extend below the thoracic module, and a caudal module for supporting the pelvis and lower extremities of the patient, wherein the cephalic module is optionally detachable and securable to the thoracic module; wherein the thoracic module is optionally detachable and securable to the caudal module and the device can be pivoted in an indexed way around a craniocaucal patient axis F.

Abstract: A support device for improving the post-operative recovery experience is provided herein. Methods of using and making such a support device are also disclosed. In various embodiments, the support device and related methods provide physical support to a post-operative patient through targeted distribution of the patient's weight. The device is expandable and/or deformable between a fully-deployed state and a collapsed, partially collapsed, and/or deformed state. In the fully-deployed state, the device is shaped to form a physical barrier that restricts the application of pressure on healing tissue. Such a device is configured to limit undesired post-operative reconfiguration of a healing tissue. The support device of some embodiments is in the form of a support pillow, cushion, seat, mattress, or mattress pad containing a deformity. In some embodiments, the device is patient-specific, molded to have a fully-deployed size and shape which conforms to the expected reconfigured dimensions of a particular patient.

Abstract: Stereotactic methods are routinely used in neurosurgery for operations such as the aspiration of brain cysts, tumor biopsies and more recently to implant electrodes into brain targets. An integral part of this surgery is a mechanical device called a stereotactic frame (10) that has head holding clamps and bars which puts the head in a fixed position in reference to the coordinate system. Various methods of accurately aligning the frame have been used but a novel device and method are proposed that over-come at least some of the shortcomings of these current techniques. There is disclosed a removable frame attachment (30) that holds the frame in position but allows for fine adjustment, allowing a single operator to quickly and accurately position the frame. The attachment can be removed before surgery without moving the set position of the frame. The device comprises two or more arms (31,32) each arm being coupled to another at a point of intersection.

Abstract: A method includes placing a patient's foot in a boot comprising a cam buckle, a pad, and a retention strap. The retention strap is placed over the top of the foot, and the pad is arranged relative to the top of the foot. Pressing on the pad positions the foot within the boot. While pressing on the pad, tension is applied on the retention strap to advance the retention strap through the cam buckle. The cam buckle is configured to automatically limit movement of the retention strap through the cam buckle when tension on the retention strap is released. Tension on the retention strap is released to cause the cam buckle to impede the retention strap from receding through the cam buckle.

Abstract: The present invention concerns a device (10) to counteract gastroesophageal reflux in babies, including at least a flat rigid support (12), with a supporting side covered with stuffing or cushion (11), characterized in that it is supplied with mechanisms of assemblage (19) with a frame (30, 30?) supplied with wheels, the supporting side of said rigid support (12) taking an inclination of 70-90° compared to the horizontal and by the fact that includes also a sling (13) coupled with said rigid support (12) and fitted on said supporting side for placing and securing a baby (20) with his abdomen facing said cushion, in the space between said cushion (11) and said sling (13), said sling (13) including a back rest (15) inclined in the same direction of the rigid support (12) and whose upper extremity is higher than the upper extremity of said rigid support (12) and said cushion (11).

Abstract: A system for securely positioning a cervical spine during surgery can include a harness comprising a donut-shaped frame to receive and hold a patient's head. Straps can be integrated into the donut-shaped frame to securely hold a patient's head within the harness at least one of a patient's chin and forehead. A rubber bladder can be integrated with the harness locatable beneath a patient's neck. A pump can provide air into the rubber bladder. Air pumped into the rubber bladder by the pump can cause a patient's neck to be lifted into an arch in preparation for and during cervical spine surgery. A release valve can be provided to release air from the rubber bladder and lower a patient's neck during and after surgery. Rods can be integrated into the donut-shaped frame at each side of the rubber bladder. The rods can affix the harness to an operating table.

Abstract: Devices and methods for assisting birth are disclosed. The device is constructed from an elastic material with an elongated center and handles at both ends. A patient grasps the device at one end, while the other end is secured. When the patient experiences a contraction, the patient pulls on the device at a downward angle. The device elastically stretches and causes the patient to utilize correct abdominal muscles for pushing a fetus down a birth canal, thus reducing second stage of labor.

Abstract: Described herein are exemplary embodiments of patient positioning systems for supporting and positioning a patient in an inclined position during medical treatment, such as in the Reverse Trendelenburg position. Some embodiments comprise a flexible, air-impermeable shell having a torso portion configured to support the patient's torso and secure the positioner to the support surface, an intermediate portion integrally coupled to an inferior end of the torso portion, and a suprapubic portion integrally coupled to an inferior end of the intermediate portion opposite the torso portion and configured to extend along the patient's perineal-pubic region when the shell is evacuated of air. When evacuated of air, the positioner is configured to hold the patient in an inclined position on an inclined support surface with the patient's head above the patient's hips such that the intermediate and/or suprapubic portions physically block the patient from sliding feet-first down the inclined support surface.

Abstract: The crossing of one's legs while sitting often results in sensations of tingling and discomfort and difficulty in returning to an erect position and walking. The underlying causes of these sensations are often associated with serious health conditions due to the potential of losing balance and falling as well as formation of blood clots in the legs that can lead to premature death. A support device and associated methods for use alleviate the symptomatic effects of sitting with crossed legs by supporting the heels of the user in a position that separates the legs from mutual contact or contact with the surfaces of the support device.

Abstract: A radial artery of a patient is made accessible to an operator on the right side of the patient for performing a left radial artery accessed cardiac catheterization with a forearm and hand positioning device which includes first and second inflatable air bladders. The first air bladder extends longitudinally with an upper surface that, when the air bladder is inflated, supports and positions the forearm and hand of a patient with a radial artery of the patient remaining accessible to the operator. The second air bladder extends longitudinally beneath and is connected to the first air bladder and when inflated elevates the first air bladder and a forearm and hand of the patient held therein above a support for the patient's arm.

Abstract: The invention provides a lumbago treatment instrument which manipulates the pelvis safely and properly by pressing the coccyx utilizing the patient's own body weight. A coccyx contact treatment member is disposed inside a cylindrical casing so as to be movable in the vertical direction via an elastic member. A coccyx contact buffering member made of sponge or the like is provided on the upper end of the coccyx contact treatment member. The patient straddles the coccyx contacting buffering member, assuming a sitting posture, and places the coccyx on the coccyx contact buffering member. In this posture, both feet are slightly lifted from the floor to apply the body weight on the coccyx contact buffering member so that the coccyx is pushed up from below. When doing so, the patient continues to maintain an upright posture while pressing the upper body against a posture holding member and gripping a handle with both hands.

Abstract: A mobile diagnostic assembly (20) of the type for supporting a patient in a prone position along an examination surface includes a support frame (22) having a top (26) extending between a front edge (38) and a rear edge (40) and defining at least one opening (48) for receiving pendant breasts of the patient in the prone position. The support frame (22) is movable to a testing position for disposing the rear edge (40) adjacent the examination surface. A flap (50) extends from the rear edge of the top for overlaying an examination surface in the testing position to support the prone patient along the examination surface and said flap and said top to prevent movement of the support frame relative to the examination surface. A pivot (54) is disposed between the flap and the top for establishing rotation of the flap from the testing position to cover said top.

Abstract: A device for assisting with bowel movements. The device comprises a rectangular, generally flat portion. The device has rounded ends with hand-holds so that the user may grip the device for stability and leverage. The device is semi-rigid, and preferentially formed from a plastic or other impervious material.

Abstract: Certain embodiments disclosed herein are directed to methods and apparatus for extended support and maintenance of facial structures by molding and maintaining the skin and underlying fat, fillers and muscle with supportive soft silicone gel pads that apply desired pressure to the structures underlying the skin In one embodiment, a facial support apparatus is provided that includes a pair of ear connection members connected to at least one pair of facial region support members, wherein each facial region support member comprises an inner skin facing surface that is releasably self-adhesive to a user's skin.

Abstract: This publication discloses a support harness, which can be used particularly to support a woman in labor during childbirth, but also, for example, to increase the support and comfort of persons and patients using a wheelchair, and for similar purposes. An attenuator (5, 7, 10, 14), which is based on the friction between two belts, is fitted, between the attachment elements (9-13) and the shoulder straps (3, 4), to the support harness, which comprises attachment elements (9-13), for attaching to a chair, birthing frame, or other support point, and two shoulder straps (3, 4), which are placed around the shoulders of the person being supported.

Abstract: A system for positioning a patient on a treatment couchtop for SBRT is provided. The system includes a patient support panel and at least one positioning/fixation component for releasable mounting on the patient support panel at a desired position to immobilize a portion of the patient's body. The patient support panel includes a pair of longitudinally extending side rails having a series of longitudinally spaced indexing apertures for receipt of a locking bar for mounting a positioning/fixation component thereon at a discrete index position. The at least one positioning component includes a pair of clamping mechanisms for releasably securing that component to the side rails at any longitudinal position along the side rails.

Abstract: Therapeutic abduction of the shoulder joint is achieved using a hinged device, the hinge activated by a cable passed between pulleys to increase mechanical advantage. The cable is wound on a spool mounted on a ratcheting mechanism, whereby tension is maintained as the spool is wound via a knob or computer controlled motor. A rotation control device enables rotation of the spool by a user, but prevents rotation due to a load. Mating shackles pivot in connection with the hinge, and are activated by the cable to increase the angle of the hinge. The hinge is connected to the body, one portion affixed relative to the body, the other affixed relative to the upper arm. As the hinge angle is expanded, the shoulder joint is abducted, stretching the tissue of the joint. If resilient, the cable imparts a dynamic tensioning force to the shoulder joint.

Abstract: The present invention provides a surgical support debridement platform for extremities of a human or mammal to assist a physician in treating such extremity. The platform generally includes a body member. The body member includes a bottom end and at least one side wall. The body member defines an interior volume for temporarily containing fluid. In operation, the extremity is positioned upon an upper surface of the platform to facilitate the process of debridement and lavage of extremities.

Abstract: A device is provided for supporting a portion of the upper body during forward lean. The device comprises a two pillars anchored to the ground or a stable platform. One or more linkage elements are connected between pillars. A support plate is slidably situated on the linkage elements approximately midway between the pillars. The support plate provides support to a user in the region of the user's breast plate. As the user leans forward, the lean forces are transferred through the linkage elements to the pillars, causing the pillars to flex, and thus provide support to the user. The height of the pillars and the stiffness of the flexible portion of the pillars are adjustable during the operation of the device.

Abstract: Method and devices for the prevention and treatment of pressure ulcers are described in which a portable support assembly may be worn by a bed-stricken individual around particular regions of the body where pressure ulcers tend to form. The portable support assembly may generally include one or more individual fluid filled pods which are enclosed entirely within an inner fluid pad localized along a central portion. Both the one or more pods and inner fluid pad are then enclosed entirely by another layer of fluid within an outer fluid pad which extends over the entire assembly. Each of the fluid layers may be secured to an outer shell which is relatively stiffer than the fluid layers and may restrict or limit the expansion or movement of the fluid pods and/or fluid pads.

Abstract: A tissue retention system to assist in maintaining adipose tissue on a patient in a displaced position during a medical procedure to provide access to a body region of the patient includes a flexible anchor pad having a pad length and a pad width. The anchor pad may include a pad body with an adhesive surface thereon, the adhesive being configured to selectively adhere to a patient's skin. The anchor pad also may include an opposing first attachment surface facing away from the adhesive surface. The tissue retention system also may include a flexible tension member having a second attachment surface.

Abstract: A breast separator is provided that may comprise a top side; a bottom side; and a pair of lateral sides extending between the top side and the bottom side, the pair of lateral sides having concave edges partially surrounding openings, the openings adapted to receive a pair of breasts of a user; wherein the top side, the bottom side, and the pair of lateral sides are adapted to prevent the pair of breasts of the user from substantially moving outside of the openings when the user is laying on at least one of their side and their stomach.

Abstract: A modular sling and pillow system for setting an appropriate abduction angle and external rotation angle in a shoulder joint. The patient's forearm is secured in a sling. An abduction pillow is fastened to the patient's side, just above the waist and facing the elbow contained within the sling. An appropriate external rotation wedge is then attached to the abduction pillow. The external rotation wedge is preferably fastened to the abduction pillow using VELCRO fasteners so that it can be easily removed and replaced. The abduction pillow pivots the upper arm outward. The external rotation wedge rotates the upper arm by moving the wrist out away from the body. The sling is attached to the external rotation wedge so that an integral brace comprising the sling, the external rotation wedge, and the abduction pillow is created.

Abstract: An arm tucking device for use with an operating room table. The arm tucking device includes a structural member and an elongate arm support member that is pivotally attached to the structural member. An angular locking mechanism adjustably fixes the angle between the arm support member and the structural member. The arm support member can be rotated toward the table from a first position to a second position.

Abstract: The present disclosure includes rehabilitation devices for physical therapy for injuries, and more particularly to a rehabilitation device for rehabilitating certain injuries or pathological conditions of the lower extremities of the hip, knee, ankle, foot, upper leg, lower leg, or other area.

Abstract: An abdominal exercise device is disclosed. The exercise device can include a flexible substrate having a first end and a second end. At least one of the first end and the second end can be configured to move with respect to each other. The exercise device can also include a curved portion between the first end and the second end. The curved portion can be configured to flex upon application of a force to the flexible substrate.

Abstract: The invention relates to a surgical fixture device, comprising a C- or U-shaped retaining bracket (2), which extends on a part of the outer circumference from a body part, is spaced apart therefrom and has at least one single pressure element (3) on the end of its first leg (21) and at least two pressure elements (3) on the end of its second leg (22). All pressure elements are pressed against or are partially pressed into the surface of the body part. According to the invention, the pressure elements are fastened to at least one of the two legs by means of in each case one head plate (4) which has at least two threaded bores (5) with in each case an internal thread, a hollow profile (41) which is oriented approximately transversely to the pressure elements being formed into said internal bores. Various types of retaining plates (6) can be slided or plugged into said hollow profile and are provided in each case with at least two threaded holes (5).

Abstract: A fixture for immobilizing an arm of a patient for insertion of a catheter for heart investigation and intervention. The fixture comprises a first portion (41) intended to be arranged at the upper arm (3), a second portion (42, 44, 45) intended to be arranged along the forearm and a third portion (43) intended to be arranged at the wrist with the wrist in an opened and twisted position. The second portion is divided into a first part (44) connected to the first portion (41) at an angle of about 150 degrees and a second part (45) connected to the third portion (43) at an angle of about 210 degrees. The first part (44) and the second part (45) are interconnected by a semi-bracelet (46) or a flexible strap (63). In this way, the first portion may be arranged at the inside of the elbow and the third portion may be arranged at the hand back at the opposite side of the arm. The fixture is attached to the arm via several flexible straps.

Abstract: A support and cushioning structure is disclosed. The support and cushioning structure is capable of supporting and cushioning the ankles in crossed-ankle positions. It includes a lower channel sized and positioned to allow a lower leg to pass through, and a top face with an elongate concave support for the calf of the upper leg and a symmetrical pair of concave ankle rests for the ankle of the upper leg. The support and cushioning structure may be comprised of a block of foam, such as urethane foam, and may be covered by a flexible cover.

Abstract: Realized is a pedal mechanism that does not lock and does not provide an operation feeling unless operated in a determined order. The pedal mechanism has first and second pedals 105 and 106, first and second plates 108 and 109, and a locking bar 115. The radius of the second plate 109 is smaller than that of the first plate 108, and the second plate does not come into contact with the locking bar in a state where a circular-arc region of the first plate supports the locking bar 115. Therefore, the second pedal does not give an operation feeling even when stepped on, and the second plate cannot be locked. In a locked state where the locking bar is located in a cutout region of the first plate, the locking bar contacts the second plate, the second pedal provides an operation feeling, and the second plate can be locked.

Abstract: A sitting tool includes a seat panel, which includes a first seating face and second seating face extending contiguously from the first seating face toward front of the sitting tool. The second seating face forms a step higher than the first seating face with its end face disposed on the side of the first seating face. When the first seating face supports the hips and the second seating face supports the upper thighs of sitting person, the step suppresses forward displacement of the ischiums of sitting person. The first seating face extends over the entire length of the seat panel in left-right direction of the sitting tool without interrupted by the step.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for identifying the flexor retinaculum of the carpal tunnel, injecting an effective amount of an agent into at least a portion of flexor retinaculum or tissue adjacent thereto, wherein the agent is configured to weaken the flexor retinaculum. The system may further include means for increasing the tensile stress in the flexor retinaculum post-injection using hand exercises, thereby weakening its structural integrity and decreasing the pressure within the carpal tunnel that impairs median nerve function.

Abstract: The invention relates to a head support for stopping a snoring of a sleeping individual, comprising an arrangement of neighbored deforming elements for setting a height of the head support section by section, wherein the deforming elements are arranged to allow a tilting of a head resting on the head support in two directions perpendicular to each other.

Abstract: A locking apparatus for use with a head fixation device allows for a stabilizing fixture, such as a rocker arm having a pair of skull pins, to be selectively secured so that the stabilizing fixture can be adjustably rotated to a desired position. In some version the locking apparatus includes a connector that is retained within an opening in a portion of the head fixation device. The connector can translate within the opening and is restricted from rotation. The translating of the connector permits the connector to engage an arch member that retains the stabilizing fixture. The engagement of the connector and arch member is accomplished, in some versions, by way of matching axial oriented toothed portions or starburst features. In some versions the teeth on the starburst features include a chamfer surface.

Abstract: The invention provides methods and devices for maintaining a patient in a position in which the patient's torso can be moved during surgery, for example by which the sternum can be closed after open chest surgery. The device comprises two contact members for contacting a respective scapula and support means for maintaining the contact members in a grip position in which, in use, each contact member imparts a force on the respective scapula to close the patient's sternum.

Abstract: A method includes placing a patient's foot in a boot comprising a cam buckle, a pad, and a retention strap. The retention strap is placed over the top of the foot, and the pad is arranged relative to the top of the foot. Pressing on the pad positions the foot within the boot. While pressing on the pad, tension is applied on the retention strap to advance the retention strap through the cam buckle. The cam buckle is configured to automatically limit movement of the retention strap through the cam buckle when tension on the retention strap is released. Tension on the retention strap is released to cause the cam buckle to impede the retention strap from receding through the cam buckle.

Abstract: An extended flexible meshed enclosure is arranged between a patient's hand and a grooved support plate upstanding from the associated operating table to support the patient's hand during surgery of the patient's associated limb. To assist in holding the patient's fingers within the meshed enclosure, a hooked and looped strap is wrapped around the patient's finger and surrounding meshed enclosure.

Abstract: An apparatus for cochlear endoscopy is provided, comprising a noninvasive head holder with a frame to attach to a head, an otologic tool for examining or operating on an ear, and a manipulator for moving the otologic tool with a translation precision of better than or equal to 0.5 mm. The otologic tool comprises an endoscope.

Abstract: A patient warming apparatus includes a compressible patient support pad and an electrically-resistive heating film disposed in conjunction with the compressible patient support pad that is configured to provide heat to at least a portion of a patient that is supported atop the compressible patient support pad. By one approach the electrically-resistive heating film comprises a substantially non-resilient, dead-foldable film substrate. By one approach the substantially non-resilient, dead-foldable film substrate comprises a polyimide cloth-like film having a conductive coating permanently adhered to one side thereof. This conductive coating can form two physically-separated electrodes. By one approach these electrodes need not be electrically coupled by conductive traces.

Abstract: A patient interface system for scanning a volume of tissue protruding from a patient, the system comprising: a base including a planar portion configured to support the patient in a prone configuration, and a frustoconical portion extending from the planar portion and defining a base aperture configured to receive the volume of tissue; and a support assembly configured to couple to the base, including a frame and a membrane retained in tension within the frame at a peripheral portion of the membrane, wherein the membrane defines a membrane aperture configured to align with the base aperture, and wherein the membrane is configured to deflect into the frustoconical portion of the base in response to the patient's weight. The system can further include an electrical subsystem including a pressure sensor array configured to generate signals in response to a pressure distribution resulting from the patient's weight at the patient interface system.

Abstract: A pelvic therapy support device and method of supporting a patient's legs therewith while performing pelvic support therapy are provided. The device includes a center support, a support member coupled to the center support, and a pair of leg supports carried by the support member. Each of the leg supports is disposed on an opposite side of the center support. The leg supports are moveable independently from one another toward and away from the center support.

Abstract: A treatment system for a patient includes a treatment couch to position the patient. The treatment couch includes a couch top and one or more stages to pitch the couch top about a lateral axis and/or roll the couch top about a longitudinal axis, translate the couch top along lateral directions and/or longitudinal directions, rotate the couch top about a vertical axis, and translate the couch top along vertical directions.

Abstract: Embodiments of a collagen-based ophthalmic interface for reducing patient eye movement are disclosed. In one embodiment, an ophthalmic interface serving as a partial barrier between a patient's eye and a surgical laser system includes an annular-shaped collagen-based shield configured to overlay the anterior surface of the eye. The shield is applied directly to the eye with an eyelid speculum, and reduces eye movement by adding friction to the surface of the eye. In another embodiment, a collagen-based material coats an attachment ring of a conical interface for coupling a patient's eye to a surgical laser system. The collagen-based coat glues the surface of the eye to the conical interface, reducing eye movement, and simultaneously eliminating the need for vacuum suction to hold the device in place. The gap in the middle of the annular-shaped collagen-coated attachment ring is filled with a liquid whose refractive index matches that of the cornea.

Abstract: The present application is directed to methods and devices for reducing shoulder impingement for a person in a lying position. The device may comprise a generally tubular cuff having an inner radius defining an open passage through the cuff and extending from a proximal end to a distal end, an outer radius defining a sidewall thickness between the inner radius and the outer radius, and a length from the proximal end to the distal end. The outer diameter may be selected to provide a sidewall thickness that restricts movement of the arm such that shoulder flexion, extension, adduction, abduction, lateral rotation, and medial rotation are each limited.

Abstract: A perinatal care device provides a shield that is placed over the mother's lower thorax. The shield is generally in the shape of a part dome, with its rim extending towards the mother's head. Warm air is delivered to a manifold in or on the shield, from which it is distributed to the space between the shield and the mother's thorax. Thus, a region of warm air can be provided within which the baby and mother are comfortable, and the baby is physically separated by the shield from an continuing surgical activity on the mother's abdomen.

Abstract: A clamping bracket which can be used to clamp an armboard on the side rail of an operating table. The clamping bracket has an attachment assembly connected to a base, the base being attached to the armboard. The attachment assembly includes a locking assembly to selectively lock the attachment assembly at a desired location along the length of the base and a clamping assembly to receive and compressively grip the side rail, thereby forming a rigid attachment of the armboard assembly to the side rail of the operating table. In a preferred embodiment, there are two attachment assemblies and, accordingly, two locking assemblies and two clamping assemblies.

Abstract: A device for fixating and/or supporting a wrist and hand of a patient during a radial artery procedure includes a frame. The frame includes a wrist frame member having a wrist support surface to receive the wrist of the patient. The frame includes a hand frame member having a hand support surface to receive the hand of the patient. The hand support member is pivotally connected to the wrist support member. The hand frame member is movable relative to the wrist frame member between a first position to a second position. In the first position, the hand support surface is at a first angle relative to the wrist support surface to hyperextend the wrist to promote access to the artery for the procedure. In the second position, the hand support surface and the wrist support surface are generally aligned to straighten the wrist and promote hemostasis after the procedure.

Abstract: A patient support apparatus includes a patient support structure, such as a bed frame or mattress or both, that is configured to support a patient in a recumbent position. The patient support structure is configured to provide at least one therapy to a patient. A therapy enabler token is coupleable to the patient support structure. The at least one therapy is disabled when the therapy enabler token is decoupled from the patient support structure and the at least one therapy is enabled in response to the therapy enabler token being coupled to the patient support structure.