Abstract: A method for using a dressing mechanism on an epidermis. The dressing mechanism includes a first section, a second section, and a third section and the first section and the third section comprise an elastic material and include a first side having an adhesive located thereon. The second section is a laminated material.

Abstract: An earplug insertion device can include a housing that is configured to hold a first earplug and a second earplug. The device can also include an ejection mechanism that can be configured to respond to a first user force by ejecting the first earplug from the device in a first ejection motion. The ejection mechanism can also being configured to respond to a second user force by ejecting the second earplug from the device in a second ejection motion.

Abstract: A dental device has a U-shaped carrier with at least one channel for embracing an arch of teeth. The carrier has recessed insets in the channel. Discrete inserts carrying a beneficial agent can fit into the insets and release the agent gradually. The device may be used in a therapeutic application and as an athletic mouthguard. Temporary blanks may be initially fitted in the insets while a portion of the mouthguard is softened before an arch of teeth is pressed into the channel to make a custom impression. The inserts possess different physical properties than the carrier and may be positioned and shaped to mechanically buffer teeth of the arch from mechanical shocks as well as release beneficial agents. The inserts may be replaced or refreshed to maintain the beneficial agent. A dental device having a core carrying a beneficial agent inside a liquid-permeable shell functions as an infant's teething device.

Abstract: Support devices and pods for the head and neck region of patients undergoing radiation therapy are provided herein. The pod generally includes a support shell shaped to generally conform to the shape of the head and neck region of the patient, a foam insert that conforms to the head and neck region of the patient, and an immobilization facemask attached directly to the shell, thereby facilitating close placement of the radiation beam delivery device to the patient and reducing any attenuation and perturbation of radiation doses directed at the patient. The components of the pod are made from materials having properties that reduce any attenuation and perturbation of prescribed radiation doses.

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: The cheek pocket anchor, formed of a resilient filament, fits within a user's cheek pouch. The anchor dynamically spans a user's inter-occlusal space and lip opening as a user's jaws open and close. The anchor can be formed of inter-connected, adjustable loops to enable user adjustment of its whole span. It can stabilize a work piece, such as an airway, in a user's mouth. The cheek path airway fits a path between a user's lips and through the user's cheek pouch and rear-jaw gap, avoiding the user's bite. It provides supplemental air to a user's rear-mouth cavity independently of a user's nasal airways while a user's lips remain closed. It can be used in combination with mandibular jaw-control and tongue-control devices whereby the combination mitigates breathing restrictions in a user's nasal and throat airways. It can be manufactured in-line and folded by a user to fit the user's cheek pathway.

Abstract: A flexible face mask is provided for protecting the face from outdoor elements. The face mask comprises a nose shield portion configured to cover the user's nose, a pair of cheek shield portions configured to cover the sides of the user's face, and a pair of ear strap portions configured to cover and receive the user's ears and eyewear. A reinforcing strip on the skin-facing side of the nose shield allows the nose shield to better conform to the user's nose. The face mask is configured for attachment to both eye glasses and goggles. For eyeglasses, a pair of small “C” - shaped cuts in the nose shield are configured to receive the nose pads of the eyeglasses. For goggles or eyeglasses, a set of hook and loop patches are utilized, wherein one patch is affixed to the eyewear's bridge and the mating patch is affixed to the nose shield.

Abstract: The present invention generally relates to an adjustable eye patch for use in connection with eye glasses. The eye patch has a first end and a second end. While in use, the first end may be located near the nose of an individual and the second end may be positioned near the ear of the individual. Near the second end of the eye patch may be a plurality of slits wherein a support bar portion of the frame of the glasses may be inserted. The first end of the eye patch may have an elongated slit for securing around the bridge or nose support of the eye glasses. The elongated slit may be temporarily secured around the bridge of the glasses to provide additional support for the eye patch.

Abstract: A headrest for a patient-bearing surface, having an approximately horseshoe-shaped form and comprising a central section (14) for supporting the back of the head or the forehead, the bearing surface thereof being at least approximately spherical shell-shaped, also comprising two side sections (16) which are arranged at a distance from each other and whose bearing surfaces conform at least approximately to a common cylindrical surface whose axis is parallel to a symmetrical line (20) of the headrest extending between the side surfaces (16). A cheekbone support (18), which protrudes in the direction of the other side section (16), is provided on each side section (16).

Abstract: In certain embodiments, an apparatus for treating a breathing condition includes a body, a threaded member, a hook, and a receiver. The body comprises a front stop, a rear stop, and a guide extending between the stops. The threaded member couples between the stops and rotates relative to the body. The hook couples to the guide, comprises a threaded passage and an arm that engages a lower arch, and travels in a forward direction along the guide to adjust the position of the lower arch. The receiver couples to the lower arch and comprises a shelf that engages the arm of the hook. The apparatus may include an extender coupled to the receiver and providing a shelf that is more rearward than the shelf of the receiver. The apparatus may include a post that couples the apparatus to another device.

Abstract: An apparatus for use in treating a breathing condition includes a first dental arch, a second dental arch, two bodies coupled to the first dental arch, and two receivers coupled to the second dental arch. The first dental arch is configured to receive at least some of a wearer's teeth. The second dental arch is configured to receive at least some of a wearer's teeth. Each body includes a front stop, a rear stop, a threaded member, and a hook. The threaded member is configured to be coupled between the front stop and rear stop of the body and configured to rotate relative to the body. The hook comprises a threaded passage configured to engage the threaded member, and an arm configured to engage a second dental arch. The hook is configured to travel between the front stop and rear stop of the body in response to rotational adjustment of the threaded member to adjust the lower dental arch relative to the upper dental arch.

Abstract: An intra-oral device used for people that snore or have sleep apnea is designed to move a user's lower jaw forward relative to the user's immovable upper jaw and to prevent the user's mouth from inadvertently opening while sleeping. The device includes upper and lower appliances fitted to the user's respective upper and lower dental arches. The lower appliance possesses a partially embedded bracket. An adjustment element is integrated into the upper portion of the bracket. With the user's mouth closed and the upper and lower appliances positioned over the user's respective dental arches, the adjustment element is moved rearward by worm action into load bearing contact against the forward facing immovable vertical contact wall of the upper appliance. This action moves the lower appliance forward, and thus, the user's lower jaw with its anatomically attached tongue are also moved forward relative to the mouth which in turn opens the user's airway.

Abstract: The present embodiment relates to the use of a musculoskeletal repositioning device in physical rehabilitation and athletic training by causing increased muscular strength and power and decreased muscular tension especially during the physical rehabilitation and athletic training. The device guides the condyles and articulating discs of the temporomandibular joint from a neutral or passive position into an active power position.

Abstract: A device for treating sleep apnea, the device comprising a tongue attachment member and a maxilla attachment subassembly. The tongue attachment member is fabricated having a sheath interlock member extending upward from a dorsal side of a sheath. The sheath is shaped to conform to a surface of an individual's tongue. A tongue receiving cavity is formed within the sheath, the cavity comprising an opening provided at a proximal end for receiving the individual's tongue. The sheath is referenced having a dorsal side and a ventral side. A sheath interlock member extends outward from the dorsal side. The maxilla tray is shaped to conform to and removably engage with an individual's upper dental arch. A tray interlock member extends from an interlock side of the maxilla tray and is positioned to interlock with the sheath interlock member, whereby the system extends an individual's tongue forward to treat sleep apnea.

Abstract: A mouthpiece used for head fixation use in medical procedures. The mouthpiece incorporates a vacuum cavity above the vacuum port of the mouthpiece and a vacuum channel embedded in the mouthpiece to allow connection to a vacuum hose external to patient's mouth.

Abstract: An oral appliance is provided for the treatment of snoring and obstructive sleep apnea. The oral appliance includes an upper tray adaptable to conform to a user's maxillary dentition and a plurality of lower trays, each of the lower trays adaptable to conform to the user's mandibular dentition. At least some of the lower trays are structured to engage the upper tray, each of the lower trays are structured to impart a different fixed amount of mandibular advancement.

Abstract: An improved ear tip for earphones and hearing protection is provided where comfort and occlusion of the ear are of most importance. The ear tip comprises an elastomer polymer resin material molded to form the material to the shape of the ear canal. A chamber is defined having a proximal and distal end, the distal end engages the acoustic exit of the transducer, sound source or sound attenuator and the proximal end of the bore is adapted to be disposed adjacent an eardrum. The inner body attaches to a nozzle, or audio playback orifice to naturally transition the acoustics from the transducer or sound attenuator to the eardrum via the ear canal. The ear tip can have a plurality of flexible annular flanges disposed at spaced intervals of the body with decreasing circumference as the flanges transition to the proximal end. Each flange tapers in a radius or curvilinear geometry as it progresses to the end of the object.

Abstract: A dressing mechanism comprising a first section, a second section, and a third section. The first section and the third section each may each include one side having an adhesive layer. An overlaying, non-adhesive barrier layer may be located between a portion of the adhesive layer and a first or third section. At least one of the first or third sections may further include a plurality of hook or loop members which are arranged to be fastened to corresponding hook or loop members of a hook and loop fastener.

Abstract: A semi-rigid animal head enclosure with a handle effective in muzzling and controlling a fractious animal using a lead passing through a portion of the enclosure and secured thereto or in corporation with a special capture stick having a lead forming a loop secured to the enclosure, one end of the stick and loop passing through the head enclosure and encircling the neck of an animal the stick having a method for releasing the lead from the capture stick, removing the stick from enclosure allows the lead to be secured to the head enclosure thus maintaining the enclosure over the head of the animal.

Abstract: An apparatus including a lens, a gasket to receive the lens and a frame removably coupled to a respirator helmet is defined. The gasket forms a seal with a respirator helmet. The frame secures the lens within the gasket and defines a release mechanism to enable a quick release of the frame from the respirator helmet.

Abstract: The present invention concerns a valve unit for a rebreather apparatus that recycles gas exhaled by a user. The valve unit includes a housing 5 with a first port for communication with a respiratory system of the user and a first inlet port 9 for breathable gas in said housing, a first exit port for exhausting gas from said housing into a flow channel, at least one separate second exit port 12 for exhausting gas form said housing 5 into an ambient environment, a second inlet port 13 for breathable gas connected to an open loop inlet valve 6 in said housing 5, and a valve body 4 in said housing 5 forming a valve for switching between two operating modes. The valve body 4 is formed as a barrel or cylinder with valve openings sealing against the housing 5, where the valve body 4 forms an internal cavity 18, alone or in combination with the housing 5, in connection with the port 10 for communication with a user. The valve 6 has an outlet in said cavity 18.

Abstract: A head support having a body with a recess defined along a recess edge of the body to receive a person's lower jaw. A torso engaging edge of the body opposite the recess edge being formed to engage a portion of the person's torso when the person is sitting in a substantially upright position to prevent the recess from falling away from the person's lower jaw area.

Abstract: An oral bib includes a thin sheet protective shield portion having resistance to the passage of a sexually transmitted disease microbe therethrough. The shield portion is configured to overlie a chin and mouth region of a wearer and has opposing sides. A strap is adapted to secure said shield portion to a wearer head.

Abstract: A bite block is to be positioned between opposing upper and lower teeth in a patient's mouth. The bite block includes an elongate member having a top and a bottom. First and second sidewalls are coupled to the elongate member on opposite sides thereof. Each sidewall extends above and below the top and bottom of the elongate member to define upper and lower teeth spaced apart transverse notches defined in an upper surface thereof. In addition, the second sidewall has a second set of spaced apart receiving channels. The first sidewall has a first set of transverse notches defined in an upper surface thereof. The first sidewall may also have a third set of spaced apart transverse notches defined in a lower surface thereof. In addition, the second sidewall may also have a fourth set of spaced apart transverse notches defined in a lower surface thereof.

Abstract: A system and method are disclosed for providing a ventilated orthotic cranioplasty helmet for treating positional plagiocephaly in infants. Specifically, a system and method are disclosed in which patient-specific parameters such as head size, patient age, degree of patient sweating, diameter of patient's hair, average length of patient's hair, and sweat range are input into a computer implemented algorithm along with a user-proposed ventilation hole array to determine an optimal ventilation hole arrangement. The computer may be connected either directly or indirectly to an automated hole drilling machine to drill the hole array in the specified portion of the helmet. The same computer implemented algorithm can be used to revise the ventilation hole array to accommodate changes in patient physiology during treatment to thereby achieve an optimal ventilation hole design throughout the treatment process.

Abstract: Oral appliances adapted to for spacing the occlusal surfaces of the teeth of a user are disclosed. The oral appliances have a major connector interconnecting a first bite pad and a second bite pad. The first bite pad can include a first spacer and the second bite pad can include a second spacer that are configured to maintain the spacing of the occlusal surfaces of opposing teeth of a user during clenching or upon an impact to the jaw. Methods for the manufacture of composite oral appliances are also disclosed. The methods include forming a composite oral appliance over a model of a user's mouth.

Abstract: A head-positioning aid for treating or preventing plagiocephaly and torticollis is formed of a soft, compliant beanie-style cap. A soft and pliable deflector is attached to the beanie cap and extends downward from near the apex to near the lower edge of the cap. The cap is applied on an infant's head in an orientation to place the deflector at any required position about the circumference of the head. The cap and deflector are united by themed indicia designed to bring family acceptance of the cap to promote acceptance and thereby support long term usage, as may be required.

Abstract: Methods and devices are provided that are effective to remove an obstruction in a human airway related to snoring and/or OSA. In one embodiment, the device includes mouthpiece having a hollow body configured to be disposed in a user's mouth. The body includes superior and inferior outer surfaces as well as anterior and posterior surfaces, a channel configured to receive a user's teeth formed in at least one of the superior and inferior surfaces, an inner cavity formed between the superior, inferior, anterior, and posterior surfaces, and at least one aperture formed in the posterior surface that extends into the inner cavity. In one exemplary embodiment the at least one aperture is oriented to extend away from the user's teeth and toward a user's tongue when the mouthpiece is in use.

Abstract: A performance enhancing and force absorbing mouthguard adapted to fit the upper teeth of the mouth of an athlete wherein the mouthguard is unobstructably tethered and of a composite material. The first internal layer is a nonsoftenable flexible framework which will permit the mouthguard to hold its shape during fitting as well as to absorb and dissipate significant impact conveyed to the upper teeth. A hard, durable bite plate wedge lowers the condyle from the temporomandibular joint in a fulcrum action to place the lower jaw in an optimum condition preventing impingement upon the nerves and arteries as well as spacing the upper and lower teeth apart. Elastomeric traction pads are on the bottom of the mouthguard and are grippingly engaged by the posterior teeth of the lower jaw.

Abstract: The present embodiment relates to the use of a musculoskeletal repositioning device in the birthing process by causing increased muscular strength and decreased muscular tension especially during the “push” phase of child birth. The device guides the condyles and articulating discs of the temporomandibular joint from a neutral or passive position into an active power position.

Abstract: The combination chin protector and mouth guard provides a device for protecting both the user's teeth and chin. The device is particularly adapted for use in combination with a motorcycle or motocross helmet, for example. The combination chin protector and mouth guard includes a chin protector having opposed front and rear faces, and a mouth guard, adapted for insertion into the mouth of the user, having a front face adapted for positioning against the lips of the user and at least one substantially U-shaped recess being formed in the mouth guard to receive and protect the user's teeth. A support having opposed upper and lower ends is further provided, the upper end thereof being attached to the mouth guard, and the lower end thereof being secured to the chin protector in order to tether the mouth guard to the chin protector.

Abstract: The present invention provides a method and apparatus for obtaining and maintaining correct alignment of body structure. In one embodiment of the invention, a head band is utilized that places light pressure on the erector spinae and sub occipital muscles below the occiput to relax the muscles that caused the counter clockwise rotation and light pressure is maintained to correct the misalignment of the atlas and occipital condyles. In another embodiment of the invention, the atlas is centered by applying manual gentle pressure to relax the muscles that caused the counter-clockwise rotation. Once relaxed, light pressure is manually applied to correct the misalignment of the atlas and occipital condyles. Gentle pressure can also be applied to the muscles that tightened as a result of the misplaced atlas until the muscles relax. The relaxation of muscles in this manner tends to also allow other misplaced body structure to return to its original position once the buildup of fasciitis is manually released.

Abstract: Support devices and pods for the head and neck region of patients undergoing radiation therapy are provided herein. The pod generally includes a support shell shaped to generally conform to the shape of the head and neck region of the patient, a foam insert that conforms to the head and neck region of the patient, and an immobilization facemask attached directly to the shell, thereby facilitating close placement of the radiation beam delivery device to the patient and reducing any attenuation and perturbation of radiation doses directed at the patient. The components of the pod are made from materials having properties that reduce any attenuation and perturbation of prescribed radiation doses.

Abstract: An earplug has a single very long main flange with a maximum diameter that is at least 80% of the length of the main flange, and at least 55% of the entire length of the earplug except for the stem. This allows the outside of the long flange to extend at a very small angle to the axial direction, and apply a constant force against the walls of the ear canal, for good and comfortable sealing to the ear canal.

Abstract: A cranial orthosis for infants, which can not only prevent the brachycephaly and plagiocephaly but also correct a brachycephalic head into a scaphocephalic head, is provided. The cranial orthosis includes a protective outer cover that is formed of a hard material and having an inner surface formed in a scaphocephalic shape to cover at least an occipital region and sides of a head, and a soft inner cover that is formed of a soft material, shaped to correspond to the protective cover, and mounted on an inner surface of the protective outer cover. The soft inner cover is formed to be spaced apart from a peak portion of the occipital region.

Abstract: Musculoskeletal repositioning devices are described. The devices are worn in the mouth and cause the lower jaw of the wearer to move into an active optimal position that relieves stress on the temporomandibular joint, causing increased muscular strength and decreased muscular tension. The devices have ramps on their upper surfaces which contact the upper posterior teeth and lingual anatomy and cause the jaw to reposition from a passive bite position to an active optimal bite position. A casting device for forming a musculoskeletal repositioning device and a method for using the casting device are also described.

Abstract: An apparatus for limiting exposure of an underlying body area of a patient to radiation. The apparatus includes a mask defining a void. The mask is contoured to substantially conform to the underlying body area. A radiation barrier is positionable within the void to facilitate limiting exposure of at least a portion of the underlying body area to radiation.

Abstract: A head and neck covering is cut from a flat sheet of foam material to form a body portion of the head and neck covering. The foam material has a first surface cut to form an eye region, mouth region and neck region. The foam material has a second surface opposite the first surface which is continuous other than an opening for intubation. The foam material is compliant so that the body portion conforms to contours of the head and neck of the anesthetized patient. A closure mechanism is attached to the body portion for securing the head and neck covering around the anesthetized patient. The foam material reduces a potential for trauma to the head and neck of the anesthetized patient. A plurality of channels is formed in the foam material. Warm fluid is circulated through the channels to reduce heat loss for the patient.

Abstract: An adjustable forehead support for a nasal mask. The present invention discloses an adjustable forehead support for a nasal or full-face mask wherein the forehead support may be adjusted for the different shapes and sizes of a facial profile. The forehead support utilizes a dual-arm system which adjusts the position of the forehead support vis-à-vis the mask and/or air flow tube. The angle of the mask to the face may be adjusted with the present invention.

Abstract: A method and system for preventing head injury by providing parallel alignment of a jaw are disclosed. A method of preventing a head injury comprises providing a dental appliance having a left body, a right body and a lingual bar engaging the left body and the right body; placing the dental appliance over a plurality of teeth of a lower jaw so the lower jaw and a upper jaw are approximately parallel; and absorbing a force applied to the lower jaw, wherein the dental appliance absorbs the force applied to the lower jaw while preventing a condyle of a mandible from transferring the force to a temporal bone.

Abstract: A medical face mask comprising a central transparent portion, an outer filter portion and, optionally, one or more antimicrobial agents is described.

Abstract: The combination chin protector and mouth guard provides a device for protecting both the user's teeth and chin. The device is particularly adapted for use in combination with a motorcycle or motocross helmet, for example. The combination chin protector and mouth guard includes a chin protector having opposed front and rear faces, and a mouth guard, adapted for insertion into the mouth of the user, having a front face adapted for positioning against the lips of the user and at least one substantially U-shaped recess being formed in the mouth guard to receive and protect the user's teeth. A support having opposed upper and lower ends is further provided, the upper end thereof being attached to the mouth guard, and the lower end thereof being secured to the chin protector in order to tether the mouth guard to the chin protector.

Abstract: In certain embodiments, an apparatus for treating a breathing condition includes a body, a threaded member, a hook, and a receiver. The body comprises a front stop, a rear stop, and a guide extending between the stops. The threaded member couples between the stops and rotates relative to the body. The hook couples to the guide, comprises a threaded passage and an arm that engages a lower arch, and travels in a forward direction along the guide to adjust the position of the lower arch. The receiver couples to the lower arch and comprises a shelf that engages the arm of the hook. The apparatus may include an extender coupled to the receiver and providing a shelf that is more rearward than the shelf of the receiver. The apparatus may include a post that couples the apparatus to another device.

Abstract: A coating composition that is incorporated into a facemask to reduce fogging and glare is provided. For example, in one embodiment, the facemask contains a shield or visor formed from a transparent substrate having at least one surface applied with the coating composition of the present invention. The present inventors have unexpectedly discovered that one or more water-soluble organic polymers, such as ethyl hydroxyethylcellulose, may be utilized as a principal component of the coating composition to reduce fogging and glare in a simple, yet effective manner.

Abstract: An improved ear tip for earphones and hearing protection is provided where comfort and occlusion of the ear are of most importance. The ear tip comprises an elastomer polymer resin material molded to form the material to the shape of the ear canal. A chamber is defined having a proximal and distal end, the distal end engages the acoustic exit of the transducer, sound source or sound attenuator and the proximal end of the bore is adapted to be disposed adjacent an eardrum. The inner body attaches to a nozzle, or audio playback orifice to naturally transition the acoustics from the transducer or sound attenuator to the eardrum via the ear canal. The ear tip can have a plurality of flexible annular flanges disposed at spaced intervals of the body with decreasing circumference as the flanges transition to the proximal end. Each flange tapers in a radius or curvilinear geometry as it progresses to the end of the object.

Abstract: Eye drapes that cover the conjunctiva and reduce the incidence of eye infection are provided. The eye drape has a flexible material and attached thereto a surgical drape. The flexible material is preferably circular with an opening to expose the cornea. The bottom of the flexible material is preferably convex relative to the shape of the eye. The outer diameter of the flexible material is conveniently fits over the ball of the eye. The surgical drape has an opening greater than or equal to the inner diameter and smaller than or equal to the outer diameter of the flexible material. The flexible material is removably fixed to the eye through a vacuum force caused by air expelled from, e.g. (i) a pocket of air in between the flexible material and the eye, (ii) a chamber with openings at the bottom of the flexible material, and/or (iii) a suction device.

Abstract: An ear warmer comprises a set of membranes and a frame. The set of membranes collectively defines an outer perimeter. The set of membranes is attached along the outer perimeter to define an attachment portion. The attachment portion is entirely disposed within an interior of the set of membranes. The frame is disposed within the interior of the set of membranes.

Abstract: The combination chin protector and mouth guard provides a device for protecting both the user's teeth and chin. The device is particularly adapted for use in combination with a motorcycle or motocross helmet, for example. The combination chin protector and mouth guard includes a chin protector having opposed front and rear faces, and a mouth guard, adapted for insertion into the mouth of the user, having a front face adapted for positioning against the lips of the user and at least one substantially U-shaped recess being formed in the mouth guard to receive and protect the user's teeth. A support having opposed upper and lower ends is further provided, with the upper end thereof being secured to the mouth guard, and the lower end thereof being secured to the chin protector in order to tether the mouth guard to the chin protector.

Abstract: In one embodiment, a device for improving a user's breathing includes an upper arch adapted to receive at least some of the user's upper teeth and a lower arch adapted to receive at least some of the user's lower teeth. A hook having an end is coupled to the upper arch. The lower arch includes a recess adapted to receive and position the end of the hook to pull the lower arch forward to facilitate improved breathing.

Abstract: An earlobe protector is described. The earlobe protector may be adhered to an athlete's ear when the athlete is wearing an earring. The protector can allow the athlete to participate in contact sports without removing the earring.