Abstract: A therapeutic traction device for increasing intervertebral spaces along a cervical spine of a user includes a user interface, a controller, a neck rest section, a crossbar provided with first and second clamps, a curvilinear back pad connected to an anterior side of the crossbar, and a utility box connected to a posterior side of the crossbar. The utility box includes a rectilinear driven rod partially seated within the utility box and statically mated to the neck rest section, and a mechanism for linearly reciprocating the driven rod along a first vertical travel path defined posterior of the back pad such that the neck rest section is synchronously raised and lowered above the crossbar. In this manner, the back pad remains statically mated to the crossbar while the neck rest section is raised and lowered along a second vertical travel path defined anterior of the first vertical travel path.

Abstract: In order to improve a support (2) for supporting a patient, particularly for surgical procedures in the shoulder region, said support comprising a substantially flat body part (4) and a bowl-shaped head part, said body part (4) comprising a back part (6) and a thorax part (8) tapered in relation thereto, the head part (10) being disposed on said thorax part by means of a transitional region, with the thorax part (8) and the transitional region sloping upwards such that the head part (10) is higher than the back part (6), and with said head part being adapted to the human profile and comprising a removable, inflatable support for adapting the position of the patient to the current positional or treatment requirements, the invention proposes that the transitional region be designed as neck part (12) and also be adapted to the human profile, comprising a removable, inflatable support for adapting the position of the patient to the current positional or treatment requirements.

Abstract: A device and method of use for a portable lightweight shoulder rehabilitation device that helps prevent shoulder injuries, helps recovery from shoulder injuries, increases shoulder flexibility, and provides strengthening of the shoulder. In one embodiment, the device is comprised of a base having at least one hand grip coupled to at least one guiding path rail to provide the desired movement of the hand and arm to target the shoulder for the desired activity such as warming up, flexibility, strengthening, and/or recovery. In another embodiment, the guiding path rail is comprised of tubing in a vertical semi-circle shape.

Abstract: This invention relates to a fixation device and a method for immobilizing a head of a patient relative a treatment unit or medical device during treatment of the head. The fixation device is provided with an interface unit adapted to be fixated in relation to an adaptor unit for connection to the treatment unit, or to a frame for connection to the medical device. Furthermore, the fixation device is provided with a bite-block for being inserted into a mouth of a patient and a positioning arrangement movably connecting the bite-block to the interface unit. The positioning arrangement is adapted to be fixated by means of an adhesive for fixation of the bite-block such that the head of a patient can be immobilized relative said adaptor unit or frame.

Abstract: An apparatus for use in tracking movement of a patella through a range of motion during a surgical navigation procedure, comprising a frame fixed in relation to the patella, a patella trial component associated with the frame for fixing the frame relative to the patella, and a reference array configured to attach to the frame, the reference array having first, second and third markers, the first, second and third markers being detectable by a surgical navigation system when exposed to a measurement field of the surgical navigation system.

Abstract: A device comprising: a backboard; a resilient material that is coupled to the backboard, wherein the resilient material comprises a tapered shape; wherein the resilient material comprises a groove, a first section and a second section; wherein the groove is between the first section and the second section; wherein the groove is configured to receive a stereotactic halo; wherein the first and second portions are configured to provide uniform anatomical support upon insertion of the stereotactic halo into the groove.

Abstract: A surgical patient support includes a foundation frame, a support top, and a brake system. The foundation frame includes a first column and a second column. The support top is coupled to the first column and the second column for rotation about a top axis extending along the length of the support top.

Abstract: A support assembly for an individual lying in a supine position comprises a first support unit, a second support unit, a first bridge slidably detachably engaging the first and second support units, a head rest, a second bridge detachably interconnecting the head rest and the first support unit, and a hinged torso compression alert strap mounted on and extending over the first support unit and including an indicator reflecting the degree of compression achieved by tightening the strap against the chest of an individual lying supine on the support assembly.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a wound dressing used for covering a wound site made of a backing layer, an adhesive layer, and a platform layer that together form a single unit; the backing layer is fastened to the platform layer by the adhesive layer and the platform layer is die cut into a pattern. The pieces of the pattern are selectively removable together with the adhesive layer, leaving the backing layer as part of the single unit, not selectively removed. The single unit would dressing serves to protect a wound site with no direct contact on the wound site.

Abstract: Support pads for reducing the pressure exerted on some portion of the human body are disclosed. A first transparent flexible plastic sheet is bonded to a layer of four-way stretchable polyamide fabric which houses a medical-grade gel. An external surface of the four-way stretchable fabric is coated with urethane to avoid migration of the enclosed gel. This support pad exerts a pressure that is below the level producing venous stasis (0.5 psi).

Abstract: Described herein are exemplary embodiments of improved surgical positioners that not only help position a patient during surgery, but also help maintain the patient's body temperature during surgery. Some exemplary surgical positioning devices disclosed herein comprise a flexible shell defining a deflatable air-tight internal region partially filled with beads and an electrical warming fabric coupled to an internal surface of the shell that is adjacent to the patient. The warming fabric is configured to convert electrical current into heat for warming the patient during surgery.

Abstract: A protective pillow for post-surgical use has a pliable yet firm inner incision pad and a stiff outer board. The outer board has handles on one side and is attached on the other side to the incision pad by use of hook-and-pile fasteners. The incision pad is soft yet pliable. The pad has one side with a cushioned surface. The cushioned surface has a long groove cut out from the inner part of the pad. The other side of the pad is attached to the outer board by hook-and-pile fasteners. The fasteners allow the post-surgical patient to orient the incision groove in any direction desirable so as to align the groove with the actual incision. The handles on the outer board always remain essentially horizontal while the incision pad is oriented in the same direction as the incision. The pad and board may be removed for easy cleaning or replacement.

Abstract: A wound care apparatus having a first surface for supporting a first portion of a patient's leg and a second surface for supporting a second portion of the leg. Generally, the apparatus includes a leg support that includes the first the second surfaces, wherein the first surface is configured to support the patient's calf and the second surface is configured to support the patient's foot. In some cases, the leg support includes a pivot joint that allows the support to pivot between a first position that presents the first surface and a second position that presents the second surface. In some instances, the leg support is further configured such that when it is in the first position, a lowest support portion of the first surface is lower than is a lowest support portion of the second surface when the leg support is in the second position. Other implementations are described.

Abstract: A cushioned head support device for safely and comfortably supporting a patient's head during procedures where the patient is positioned face down. The device affords easy access to the patient's face, providing multiple suitable openings for inserting medical devices as well as for viewing the patient. A mirror is provided so that medical personnel may view the patient's face conveniently and easily while working above the patient. The device is readily adjustable in multiple dimensions, providing for adjustment to accommodate any size face or head, as well as adjustments to raise or lower the height of the device or to tilt the device in any direction. The invention further comprises disposable cushions in various sizes to accommodate children as well as adults.

Abstract: The present application pertains to dynamic systems for improving posture in humans through the use of chairs, wheelchairs, walkers, standing devices, wearing devices, sports equipment or other seating or mobility devices that are designed to provide one or more contact points or postural points on the body, which stimulate proper posture and awareness of posture, while allowing movement, without the requirement for physical restraints.

Abstract: An apparatus and method includes a first anatomic positioner for migrating a first anatomic part. The first anatomic positioner includes a first tapered arm for applying a motive force and a first arch at a distal end of the first tapered arm for contacting the first anatomic part. The first arch includes a varying width and a varying density where the first arch is asymmetrically offset from the first tapered arm such that a longitudinal axis of the first tapered arm extends through a lower portion of the first arch.

Abstract: There is described a medical positioning apparatus for positioning and holding an object, comprising: a telescopic member; a support member for receiving the object; a base member securable to a base; a first and a second joint mechanism movably securing the telescopic member to the support member and the base member and each having at least two rotational degrees of freedom; a locking device operatively connected to the joint mechanisms and the telescopic member, the locking device operable between a locked position in which the configuration of the positioning apparatus is fixed, and a released position in which the configuration of the positioning apparatus may be changed, the locking device being passively biased in the locked position; and a lock activation device to unlock the locking device in order to change the configuration of the positioning apparatus.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a fluidized lower leg protection and support system and method. The system can include an inner positioner. The inner positioner can displace and contour three-dimensionally as though it was fluid to the sides and top of the leg while not having flow characteristics that would result in migration of the medium under the force of gravity. The system can also include an outer support which is received over the inner positioner. The outer support can be in the shape of an open boot. The outer support can include an ultra low pressure plenum. The ultra low pressure plenum is filled at a predetermined low pressure for distributing pressure along the length of the outer support, but not providing significant elevation of the lower leg and heel by itself.

Abstract: A device for stabilizing a limb, typically when the limb is in a therapeutic boot. A wedge-shaped stabilization block includes an outwardly-extending tether. A fastener in the form of spaced fastener elements is located on the tether for securing the stabilization block in place.

Abstract: The invention relates to a patella gripper for a patella, comprising a retaining element (3; 53) and a contact finger apparatus (4; 54), wherein the contact finger apparatus (4; 54) is arranged on the lower face of the retaining element (3; 53), wherein the contact finger apparatus (4; 54) comprises at least two contact finger units (4.1, 4.2; 54.1), which are arranged on opposite sides of the retaining element (3; 53), and wherein the contact finger apparatus (4; 54) is designed in such a way that the patella can be moved in the cranial-caudal direction and in the medial-lateral direction by means of the contact finger units (4.1, 4.2; 54.1). The invention further relates to a device (20; 60) having such a patella gripper (1; 51).

Abstract: A bed-cushion back-support (1) for lumbar recovery having three curved surfaces matching natural physiological curvature matches the natural curvature of the lower backbone of the human body and includes a convex surface (3) for the lumbar vertebrae, and reverse concave surfaces (2,4) for the sacral and lower thoracic vertebrae. The curved bed-surface formed by fixing the bed-cushion back-support on the bed board exactly matches the natural curvature of the backbone of a patient, and provides effective support to the backbone below the midportion of the thoracic vertebrae. With the effect of gravity on the human body, long-term use of the bed-cushion back-support provides long-term traction for an injured backbone, correcting deformities and restoring the functions of the lumbar vertebrae and surrounding tissues.

Abstract: A method of securing a patient onto an operating table when the patient is in the Trendelenburg position and apparatus therefor including a kit. A viscoelastic pad is used to support and hold a patient on a medical procedure table during a medical procedure performed while the table, and thus the patient lying thereon, is in an inclined position, such as the Trendelenburg position. The viscoelastic pad has characteristics which promote a minimization of pressure forces on the patient's body, as well as promote a secure cushioning and holding of the patient in a desired position on the table, in order to minimize injury to the patient.

Abstract: Described is a leg support for a surgical table, the leg support comprising a connector for connecting the leg support to a surgical table; an intermediate member mounted on the connector by a first pivot joint defining a first axis about which the intermediate member is displaceable relative to the connector; and a support for supporting a leg of a patient, the support mounted on the intermediate member by a second pivot joint defining a second axis about which the support is displaceable relative to the intermediate member independently of displacement of the intermediate member relative to the connector about the first axis, the second axis being parallel to the first axis, and a plane normal to the second axis passing through both the intermediate member and the support. Also described is a kit of parts for a leg support, a method of configuring a leg support, a surgical table comprising a leg support, and a kit of parts for a surgical table.

Abstract: A surgical positioning system includes a flexible air-impermeable shell filled with beads that is wrapped against the patient and subjected to a vacuum to hold the patient in place. The shell includes rounded shoulder portions, on either side of a separately inflatable pillow, to envelop portions of the patient's neck and shoulders, tapered waist portion to provide easy access to a patient's forearms and lower lateral abdomen, and expanded wrist hand portion to cradle the patient's hands and thighs.

Abstract: An equine CT table for positioning a horse during a CT (“computed tomography”) scan. The table is positioned above the patient couch and communicates with the conventional CT system for examination of a horse without requiring mechanical or electrical attachments between the CT system and table. The table includes a frame carrying a tracking system, a linear movement system and a carousel upon which the horse is positioned. Prior to examination, positioning of the horse on the table may be manually adjusted linearly and/or radially in any direction to properly align the horse. Infinitely positionable cantilever members are provided to support horse's appendages. The tracking system identifies movement of the CT couch and mimics the movement with the linear movement system to enter and retract the horse from the gantry at predetermined positioning.

Abstract: The invention relates to a device for plasma treatment of living tissue, with a plasma source for generating an atmospheric plasma jet, with a support device for a body part comprising the tissue to be treated, with a movement device for moving the plasma source relative to the surface of the tissue, and with a control device for controlling the movement device and for controlling the operation of the plasma source, wherein the control device has means for adjusting the plasma output as a function of the position relative to the tissue. The invention solves the technical problem of permitting more reliable and faster plasma treatment of living tissue.

Abstract: A patient lower extremity positioning system that is configured to facilitate easier use of surgical instruments during open and arthroscopic procedures of the lower extremity, including, but not limited to the hip joint, acetabulum, femur, femoral neck and femoral shaft is disclosed. The patient lower extremity positioning system may include one or more perineal pads configured to be supported adjacent to a patient torso support such that the perineal pad is positionable adjacent to a patient's perineum. The perineal pad may be formed from a perineal pad body coupled to a distal transition section extending distally from the perineal pad body. The distal transition section may have a distal tip with a cross-sectional area that is less than a cross-sectional area of the perineal pad body, thereby enabling a surgeon to more easily position surgical instruments during surgery without the perineal pad conflicting with the surgical instruments.

Abstract: Described herein are exemplary embodiments of improved surgical positioners that not only help position a patient during surgery, but also help maintain the patient's body temperature during surgery. Some exemplary surgical positioning devices disclosed herein comprise a flexible shell defining a deflatable air-tight internal region partially filled with beads and an electrical warming fabric coupled to an internal surface of the shell that is adjacent to the patient. The warming fabric is configured to convert electrical current into heat for warming the patient during surgery.

Abstract: A patient support apparatus, comprising a patient support having one or more pads for supporting a patient's torso and hip in a generally horizontal orientation. At least one, elongated leg support extends from the patient support. The leg support is movable through a generally horizontal plane. A portion of the leg support is declinable and inclinable from the horizontal plane. A traction device is connected to the leg support. The traction device is attachable to a patient's leg and operable to exert a traction force on the patient's leg along an axis generally parallel to the leg support. The traction device is connected to the leg support by a slide assembly and the traction device can be secured stationary relative to the leg support or the traction device can slide relative to the leg support.

Abstract: A connection device for an adjustable connection of a medical device, preferably a head restraint, to an accessory of a stationary device, preferably an operating table, is provided. The medical device can be connected to one end, and the stationary device can be connected with the other end of the connection device, and this connection device has at least two holding arms (10a, 10b, 10c) connected via a ball and socket joint, with the first holding arm (10a) comprising a joint socket (110a), the second holding arm (10b) a ball joint (12a) matched thereto. The ball and socket joint can be fixed in a desired angular position by a detachable clamping device. Here, the ball joint (12a) and the holding arm (10b) supporting it are inserted on a common connecting cone (25, 25c, 25d, 25e) and are clamped thereto in the axial and radial direction.

Abstract: A device avoiding the use of any motor or perpendicular or rectangular elements, having a convex asymmetrical longitudinal curve, a central longitudinal groove, and mirrored perpendicular and latitudinal, symmetrically-matched convex curves extending from the central groove to the sides, and optimally surfaced with a soft dense foam, uses gravitational force on the body of a user to provide an effective, yet gentle stretch along the length and across the width of the back, particularly at the thoracic vertebrae thereby relieving postural mechanical shoulder, back or spine pain. Additional alternative embodiments using a heating, cooling, or vibrational element along the central longitudinal groove are also described and claimed herein.

Abstract: An oral device for use in radiotherapy of the head and neck includes a base member and a bite member or “mouthpiece,” which is selectively positionable relative to the base member. The device provides immobilization of the tongue for accurate reproducible administration of radiation therapy. The device fits within the oral cavity of a patient and is maintained in position by a bite member that fits over the maxillary teeth of the patient. The position of the bite member relative to the base member may be adjustable to accommodate differences in mouth cavities and bite profiles. For example, the base member may include a platform or series of members configured to be removably coupled to the bite member in multiple different positions.

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 method of securing a patient onto an operating table when the patient is in the Trendelenburg position and apparatus therefor including a kit. A viscoelastic pad is used to support and hold a patient on a medical procedure table during a medical procedure performed while the table, and thus the patient lying thereon, is in an inclined position, such as the Trendelenburg position. The viscoelastic pad has characteristics which promote a minimization of pressure forces on the patient's body, as well as promote a secure cushioning and holding of the patient in a desired position on the table, in order to minimize injury to the patient.

Abstract: A method of securing a patient onto an operating table when the patient is in the Trendelenburg position and apparatus therefor including a kit. A viscoelastic pad is used to support and hold a patient on a medical procedure table during a medical procedure performed while the table, and thus the patient lying thereon, is in an inclined position, such as the Trendelenburg position. The viscoelastic pad has characteristics which promote a minimization of pressure forces on the patient's body, as well as promote a secure cushioning and holding of the patient in a desired position on the table, in order to minimize injury to the patient.

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 lavers 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: 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 lavers 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 cast support system for removing a cast and methods of removing a cast described herein have the advantage over prior art devices and methods by permitting hands free, improved immobilization of the cast on a patient's body member, and patient comfort while the cast is being removed from the patient's body.

Abstract: A support apparatus (1) adapted for positioning beneath the lower back of a user (2) in a generally semi-supine position. The support apparatus includes a base (5) for positioning on a platform (6) such as a floor. First and second inclined support surfaces (10, 11) are disposed to diverge upwardly from a generally transverse valley formation (12) defined between the first and second support surfaces. The first inclined support surface is adapted for positioning substantially beneath the coccyx or sacrum of the user, the second inclined support surface is adapted for positioning substantially beneath one or more of the thoracic vertebrae of the user, and the valley formation is adapted for positioning substantially beneath one or more of the lumbar vertebrae of the user, thereby to induce a relaxation response in the lower back of a user.

Abstract: A surgical positioning system includes a flexible air-impermeable shell filled with beads that is wrapped against the patient and subjected to a vacuum to hold the patient in place. The shell includes rounded shoulder portions, on either side of a separately inflatable pillow, to envelop portions of the patient's neck and shoulders, tapered waist portion to provide easy access to a patient's forearms and lower lateral abdomen, and expanded wrist hand portion to cradle the patient's hands and thighs.

Abstract: An airway positioning device facilitates the maintenance of a patent airway by correctly positioning a patient's head during anesthesia. A flat base supports a supine patient's head. A pair of rails slope downward from a first end of the base to a second end of the base. A track mounts with at least one of the rails. At least one adjustable support arm movably mounts with the track via a locking coupling device at an end of the arm distal to the patient's head. A patient engaging member mounted with an end of the arm proximal to the patient's head supports the patient's head in a desired position during an operation or procedure.

Abstract: A limb support comprising a first portion for supporting the lower part of a patient's lower limb, a second portion for supporting the upper part of the patient's lower limb, each portion with deep guttering suitable for providing rotational and angulatory support to the portion of the limb, an adjustable support, and surface engaging portions comprising the adjustable support and free end of the second portion.

Abstract: A method of securing a patient onto an operating table when the patient is in the Trendelenburg position and apparatus therefor including a kit. A viscoelastic pad is used to support and hold a patient on a medical procedure table during a medical procedure performed while the table, and thus the patient lying thereon, is in an inclined position, such as the Trendelenburg position. The viscoelastic pad has characteristics which promote a minimization of pressure forces on the patient's body, as well as promote a secure cushioning and holding of the patient in a desired position on the table, in order to minimize injury to the patient.

Abstract: The present invention pertains to a method for aligning both the cervical spine and the airway of a child by elevating the spine of the child to allow some clearance for the head of the child to rest on a lower plane. In a preferred embodiment, the extent of maturity of the child is first estimated by measuring the length of the child or some portion of the child. Finally, a pad is provided which is height adjustable which can be used in the method of the present invention to elevate the spine of the child.

Abstract: The abdominal elevator comprises a body portion made from a flexible foam, a polymer, paper or fabric having at least one upper edge and, optionally, two or more side edges, with a shape ranging from triangular to rectangular to oval with one or more straps attached to one or more of the edges and also having an anterior surface and a posterior surface having a adhesive applied to the posterior surface. The straps of the abdominal elevator are attached to the bedrail using a secure method that comfortably elevates, retracts and retains the abdominal pannus during a surgical procedure that requires access to the lower abdomen and/or groin area that would otherwise be obstructed.

Abstract: A back and neck cushion therapy device for wearing, attaching to a backpack, or placing over a chair. The device can include a pouch with a traction device disposed therein. The traction device can include a head, a body, and a lower back traction. Straps can be connected to the pouch, allowing a user to strap the device about the user. The traction device can have various indention load deflections, providing firmness or softness. The traction device can be shearable, allowing the user to cut the traction device to a custom size. The pouch can be fastened to a backpack. A reversible back and neck cushion therapy device can include two pouches with two traction devices, such that a user can select a firm side or a soft side. The reversible back and neck cushion therapy device can be hung over a chair back.

Abstract: A patient module for use in a medical setting is provided. The patient module includes a patient seating assembly and at least one of a medical instrument for use in providing treatment to a patient. At least one member having an articulated joint is provided. The member has a first end configured for engagement with a structure and a second end configured for engagement with a light for illuminating a treatment area of the patient. A display screen is carried by the light for displaying images for viewing by the patient. The display screen may be integrally formed with the light within a housing.

Abstract: A vertebrae support device. The vertebrae support device includes a base made of a yielding material and having resting surface, a rail side, a first lateral side a second lateral side, a head end, and a foot end. A first rail extends from the rail side of the base from the resting surface of the base and adjacent the first lateral side and having a rounded surface opposite the base. A second rail extends from the rail side of the base from the resting surface of the base and adjacent the second lateral side and having a rounded surface opposite the base, a trough depending between the first and second rails and toward the base at least one inch. A headrest is formed on the head end of the base.

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 and a cover 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. At least one drainage aperture is defined within the body member for draining the fluid from the interior of the body member. A cover member includes a top end and at least one side wall. The cover member and the body member are releasably engaged to define an overall low profile for easier deployment under an extremity and visibility of the extremity. In operation, the extremity is positioned upon an upper surface of the cover member to facilitate the process of debridement and lavage of extremities.

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.