Abstract: A system and method for immobilization of the human breast in a prone position during imaging and radiotherapy. The system includes a vacuum-assisted breast immobilization cup comprising two layers joined together with an air space between. The inner layer has densely perforated holes while the outer layer is airtight. When a negative vacuum is applied to the intermediate airspace the breast tissue is sucked against the mesh wall of the inner layer to preventing sliding. In addition, the cup assembly is locked into a fixed position against the patient torso via a body fixture, as well as against the patient support structure. The established geometric relationship among the cup, chest wall, imaging/treatment table or couch may be accurately repeated. The system further includes a three-dimensional localization system to uniquely place the breast in a coordinate system having fixed geometric relationship with the breast immobilization cup.

Abstract: A hip orthosis, provided with a trunk engaging part and an upper leg engaging part which are intercoupled by coupling means, wherein the coupling comprise at least one resilient element for operatively preventing an adducting movement of an upper leg engaged by the upper leg engaging part by means of spring force.

Abstract: A sleep positioning apparatus for restricting the movement of a person wearing a garment from a desired sleeping position to an undesired sleeping position, comprising an interchangeable resiliently deformable roll inhibiting element having openings there through; and a fastener assembly for connecting the roll inhibiting element to the garment of a person, wherein the fastener assembly comprises an elongated band with a clip on one end and a separable ring on the opposite end, the clip for connecting with the garment of a person and the separable ring for connecting within the openings of the roll inhibiting element, thereby allowing interchangeability of the roll inhibiting element, and the clip and the garment forming a substantially flexible joint, thereby maintaining the roll inhibiting element in substantially the same orientation and position relative to the person, when the person is in the desired sleeping position.

Abstract: A novel ankle gapping device includes a lower leg engaging apparatus, a foot engaging apparatus, and a biasing member disposed between the lower leg engaging apparatus and the foot engaging apparatus. The leg engaging apparatus is adapted to securely engage a user's leg such that the leg engaging apparatus will remain stationary when the biasing member exerts an upward force thereon. The foot engaging apparatus is contoured to fit the user's foot. In a particular embodiment, the biasing member is a pneumatic biasing member, such as an inflatable tube that is actuated by a pump. As the pump provides compressed air (or some other fluid) to the biasing member, the pressure inside the biasing member increases, causing an increase in the volume of the biasing member. This pressure and volume increase exerts an upward force via the leg engaging apparatus to the lower leg, and a downward force via the foot engaging apparatus to the foot.

Abstract: An apparatus for applying pressure to a body part comprising: a first sleeve comprising a multiplicity of pressure-applying resilient protrusions configured to apply a therapeutic pressure to a surface of the body part of a patient; and a second sleeve slidably received over the first sleeve, the second sleeve configured to apply a pressure to the first sleeve, thereby increasing the therapeutic pressure applied by the first sleeve on the limb.

Abstract: A restraint strap system for a prisoner or other person to be transported comprises an elongated strap with a neck loop, and a front section that overlies the front of a person when installed or worn, and which is of length so that it passes between the legs of the wearer. A back flexible member, such as a strap or chain is attached to the lower portion of the front section and passes to the back of the wearer. The back flexible member is secured to a connector at the back of the neck loop with a quick attachment link and a lock. The front strap includes provisions for passing a body band through a formed loop in the front section and which body band is secured at the rear with the lock system for the back flexible member. An elongated link that can be locked in place after securing handcuffs, a belly chain, or a body belt in place at the front of the wearer is provided.

Abstract: A cervical brace having a cervical collar. The collar has a front collar portion and a rear collar potion wherein the rear collar portion comprises an occipital support. A vest comprising a front vest portion and a back vest portion is attached to the front collar portion to limit movement of the front vest portion with respect to the cervical collar while the back vest portion is free to move with respect to the cervical collar rear portion.

Abstract: A swivel adapter (26) has a base (60) with an outward facing first side (57) and a pivot surface (55) extending from the first side. A Center adapter (52) is mounted for pivoting motion on the pivot surface and has an outward facing first device connector (46). A clamp (78) has a clamp operator (80) operable to clamp the center adapter on the pivot surface at a desired orientation with respect to the base. A base unit handle (34) has a clamping mechanism (128, 138, 156, 164) connected to a body (120) having two split bores (36, 122), which is operable to clamp and unclamp the split bores on respective shafts. The clamping mechanism has linkage (138, 156) connected to a closing handle (164) to provide a mechanical advantage to the handle during the clamping action.

Abstract: A medical spine board includes a main board, a plurality of covering cloths and protective soft blocks, a head plate set with two fixed plates with adjustable interval. The main board is certainly strong and set with a soft back pad to support the human body. The covering cloths are set symmetrically in two sides of the main board with fastening layers and adhering layers to be fastened together. The covering cloths are also set with the soft protective blocks in detachable way. The head plate is set in front of the main board to support the human head. The fixed plates are set with soft pillow, fastening layer and adhering layer to fasten the human head. The medical support structure made in aforementioned structure can fasten each parts of the human body with soft and comfortable protection.

Abstract: A system for preventing a patient's shoulders from rising or “shrugging” during a medical procedure is presented. The patient lies on a table and wears a jacket. A number of straps are used to couple the jacket to the table. Each strap has a first end and a second end. The first end of each strap is coupled to the jacket and the second end of each strap is coupled to the table. The straps have sufficient tension to prevent the patient's shoulders from rising or “shrugging” during the medical procedure. The patient's feet rest on foot plate to prevent the patient from sliding toward the foot of the table due to the force exerted on the patient's shoulders because of the tension of the straps.

Abstract: A fall protection harness that includes: an adjustable belt having a front, a back, a first side and a second side; a tie-in point; a first weight supporting loop having a first front section connected to the front of the belt and a first back section connected to the back of the belt; a second weight supporting loop having a second front section connected to the front of the belt and a second back section connected to the back of the belt; a first lateral member extending between the first front section and the first back section; and a second lateral member extending between the second front section and the second back section. The weight supporting loops and the lateral members define openings that are adapted to encircle a wearer's legs, and the back sections are adapted to support the wearer's lower back and/or buttocks.

Abstract: An article and method for preventing a continuous passive motion (CPM) device from moving out of position or alignment that include a holding member adapted to pass around a portion of the CPM device and an anchoring member coupled with the holding member for retaining the CPM device holding member in position. The anchoring member is adapted to be placed under the user of the device and held fast by the weight of the user, thereby assuring secure control of the CPM device position by the user.

Abstract: A hinge assembly for a knee brace includes a screw seat, a screw seat gear, an adjustment screw, a condyle engagement member, and an adjustment actuator gear. The screw seat has a bore with an internal thread. The screw seat gear is positioned at an end of the screw seat and the screw seat rotates in response to rotation of the screw seat gear. The adjustment actuator gear engages the screw seat gear and the screw seat gear rotates in response to rotation of the adjustment actuator gear. The adjustment screw has an external thread that is threaded into the internal thread of the screw seat, thereby enabling outward or inward telescoping of the adjustment screw within the bore in response to rotation of the adjustment actuator gear.

Abstract: An articulated joint (11) for a knee brace to control femoral-patellar instability comprises a central support bracket (10) designated to be fixed to the patella area in order to carry out angular movements dynamically following the two reciprocally articulated sectors it connects, comprising a pair of plates (18,19) which enclose the ends of the uprights (16,17). The second plate (19) is thicker than the first and comprises a second housing which passes transversally through the plate and is designed to accommodate the sliding cursor support (15) of the patellar bracket (10). The movements of the patellar bracket (10) are imparted by a specially shaped lever (24).

Abstract: Disclosed is a wrist-wearable electronic interface movably mounted on an arm-attachment mechanism. Interface moves from under-sleeve wrist-adjacent position to palm-adjacent position where it can be manipulated by the hand of the arm wearing the device. Alternately adaptable to telephones, audio recorders, remote controls, auto ID equipment, telephone call-blocking, and more. Alternative embodiment provides a wrist-mounted docking station. Another alternative embodiment includes a superior carpal tunnel syndrome therapy device. The system also includes novel battery chargers: (1) window-mounted, solar-powered; (2) mounted in an automobile that also includes an improved odometer, license plate, and cabin air filtration system.

Abstract: A vacuum activated device for holding a human immobile. The device includes a rigid frame of a three dimensional shape large enough to surround a human torso and a bag comprised of a flexible, air impermeable material enclosing the frame. A closure on the bag is necessary to allow an occupant to enter or be placed within it. When air is evacuated through a hole in the bag its surface will collapse around the frame and the occupant's body. The rigidity of the frame in combination with the pressure applied to the occupant by the surface of the bag will impede further movement by the occupant. A means to allow the occupant access to breathable air will be provided.

Abstract: A cushion for use with a variety of types of seats, for example, automotive seats, to adjust the sacrum thereby pivoting the pelvis to assist in maintaining the spine in equilibrium. The cushion is preferably separate from the seat and has central and end support areas that have a density or compressibility that is greater than that of the interconnecting portions. The central area is also provided with one of a plurality of inserts that individually have varying compressibility so that the compressibility of the central area is variable by changing between the inserts.

Abstract: An ambulatory spinal unloading method and apparatus are implemented to achieve a desired minimum level of residual cushioning in response to a biasing force applied to the associated apparatus tensioning and/or compression mechanism(s). The ambulatory spinal unloading apparatus may further include a treatment system to provide desired levels of nerve and/or muscle stimulation in addition to hot and/or cold elements to provide further therapeutic effects as desired or necessary.

Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention provide an adhesive overbandage. In an embodiment, there is provided an adhesive overbandage for use with a biosensor. An exemplary overbandage comprises a frame having an upper surface, a lower surface, an outer boundary and an inner boundary, wherein the inner boundary defines an interior opening configured to receive a monitoring device, adhesive disposed on the lower surface of the frame, and a release liner removably coupled to the adhesive.

Abstract: A patient support incorporates a patient retention device includes frame, a rotatable shaft, a torque-producing device, and a flexible restraint member. The shaft has a cantilevered portion that extends from the frame and windably receives the flexible restraint member at the cantilevered portion. Optionally, a winding member is releasably coupled to the cantilevered portion of the shaft for receiving the flexible restraint member. The winding member is non-rotatable relative to the shaft, and is readily removable and replaceable. The torque-producing device applies a torque to the shaft to wind the flexible restraint member onto the shaft or winding member.

Abstract: Methods and apparatuses include applying a biting force to a bite-piece, the biting force is applied by a user's teeth, wherein the bite-piece is held inside of the user's mouth. Closing the mouth and the biting force suppress the user's gag reflex and the user's Tonsils and adjacent Throat structures can be treated by spraying fluid onto the Tonsil or manipulating the surface of the Tonsil and related structures. The Tonsils can be cleaned thereby.

Abstract: A skull pin assembly for a head fixation device that allows for effective imaging with limited artifact is disclosed. The skull pin assembly comprises two components, a tip and a housing. The conical-shaped tip component engages the skull at a point and is configured to fit within the bore of the substantially cylindrical non-conductive housing component. The conical skull pin tip can be comprised of a material that causes limited artifact in medical imaging procedures. The conical skull pin tip can taper away from the point engaging the skull at a first angle and can seamlessly transition into a conical-shaped surface of the housing component. In one embodiment, a third surface of the housing component can also be tapered to meet the first surface of the tip component at the identical first angle of tapering.

Abstract: A system and method for immobilization of the human breast in a prone position during imaging and radiotherapy. The system includes a vacuum-assisted breast immobilization cup comprising two layers joined together with an air space between. The inner layer has densely perforated holes while the outer layer is airtight. When a negative vacuum is applied to the intermediate airspace the breast tissue is sucked against the mesh wall of the inner layer to preventing sliding. In addition, the cup assembly is locked into a fixed position against the patient torso via a body fixture, as well as against the patient support structure. The established geometric relationship among the cup, chest wall, imaging/treatment table or couch may be accurately repeated. The system further includes a three-dimensional localization system to uniquely place the breast in a coordinate system having fixed geometric relationship with the breast immobilization cup.

Abstract: An appliance for breathing enhancement that includes a support member and securing mechanism for holding a user's head in a position where the user's mouth is closed and the user's head is tilted to maintain an open airway. The breathing enhancer reduces or eliminates snoring. In at least one embodiment of the invention, the teeth are maintained in a normal closed bite position (1-5 mm open) while the lips are touching or almost touching to eliminate or substantially eliminate open mouth breathing.

Abstract: A controlled extrication module for the injured composed of a body with several means of immobilization of an injured person and supplied with devices for handling, maneuvering and transporting. The module is composed of a rigid plaque that provides a rear part with a medium zone coinciding with a person's back, a lower zone coinciding with a sacrococcygeal zone, and an upper zone coinciding with neck and head. The upper zone has a rounded edge which coincides with a cranial base and a border enabling attachment to an upper end of a seat. The upper zone also has two cavities for placing cervical collar straps which delimit a central help and semi-rigid fins connected to additional straps which attach at their ends. Both sides of the medium zone have upper and lower projections and an intermediate space supplying a side border. The border is placed on a side edge of the seat. The module also has a harness made up of upper and lower strips.

Abstract: A patient-friendly medical device is provided for removal of excess fluids from body tissue and is particularly useful to treat soft tissue inflammation, damage, edema and/or lymphedema. The comfortable medical device comprises a composite multilayered assembly that provides a gradient pressure compression device to compress body tissue of a patient in a controlled and graduated manner. The composite multilayered assembly can have an inner and/or outer layer to enhance uniform distribution of compression about the affected portion of the patient and can have flexible intermediate layers with elastomeric components such as foamed chips, foamed pieces, and/or chopped foam that can have a different density and/or size and/or shape to form channels (canals) therebetween to enhance flow of excess fluids from the body tissue of the patient. The channels or canals can create zones of gradient pressure to help move excess fluid from the tissue of the affected portion of the body of the patient.

Abstract: A patient assist lift (PAL) device comprising a contoured shell which provides many benefits to patients and rescuers. A PAL device reduces or eliminates the risks of injuring a patient during mobilization. A PAL device may be quickly and easily attached to a patient, and supports hips, spine, torso, and neck. Color coded straps encourage proper use of a PAL device. Ergonomic handles and straps reduce or eliminate injury to rescuers during lifting and movement of an injured person. A PAL device enables rescuers to lift and mobilize an injured person from any position and in any situation. A PAL device is especially effective in emergencies in providing a safe and efficient means to secure and move a patient with the least amount of effort while minimizing the risks and discomfort to both patient and rescuer in mobilizing such patient. A smaller PAL device can be used to immobilize children or extremities.

Abstract: A head positioning device comprising: (A) a head support that is configured for supporting a patient's head; and (B) a sliding joint that is connected to allow the head support to be moved about a virtual axis of rotation while the head support is supporting the patient's head, wherein the virtual axis of rotation is spaced apart from the sliding joint. The head positioning device may include a head restraint for maintaining the patient's head in a substantially fixed relation to the head support as the head support is moved about the virtual axis of rotation. In one embodiment, the head restraint comprises a hook member that is configured for hookedly engaging a curved portion of the patient's face.

Abstract: The device of the present invention is to prevent voluntarily or involuntarily arm movement that could be harmful to a medical patient during the patient's treatment using the patient's body weight to restrain the arms from movement.

Abstract: A container having a constraining strap present therein for attachment to an immobilization board. The container is attached to an underside, or bottom, of the immobilization board or similar device for transporting a person who is reclining on the board. Opposite ends of the straps pull from the ends of the container and are pulled into position to surround the patient. The opposing ends of the strap are secured by a fastener. After use, the container is pulled away from the bottom of the board so that the strap and container are removed. A pressure sensitive adhesive on top of the container is used to affix a new container to the underside of the board.

Abstract: A patient restraint member is provided for medical procedures, such as radiation therapy. The restraint member is formed from a sheet of thermoplastic material that can be softened upon heating so as to be formable into a shape corresponding to a patient's body part to be restricted and setting upon cooling to retain the shape. The sheet includes spaced apart groups of perforations which minimize shrinkage during the formation process. The sheet also includes solid bands extending between the groups of perforation to provide rigidity and strength to the formed sheet.

Abstract: A device that is used to turn a non-ambulatory patient in a hospital bed from left to right. The device has a padded cushion made with a single sheet of washable vinyl material and is filled with a poly-down bonded quilt batting which is placed inside of the vinyl sheet and covered with a cotton lining. This padded cushion is placed in the center of the device. There are two nylon straps that run through the length of the cushion and are encased in a sleeve that is sewn into the cotton lining which extends out of both ends if the padding to be placed on the top and bottom bed rails. At the end of both straps are Velcro and two metal grommets in which metal, plastic clamps, or restraint straps are used to affix the straps to the bed railing holding patient in position.

Abstract: An injured person or an injured limb is supported and stabilized with a flexible film element enclosing an airtight inner region that can be evacuated. The film element is provided with two insertion bodies which respectively are formed with two air-permeable, flexible material strips. Each insertion body is divided into chambers containing loose particles, by way of intersecting seams formed between the material strips. The seams on both insertion bodies are staggered in relation to each other in both directions in such a way that the particles combine to form a substantially homogeneously thick particle layer.

Abstract: A disposable mask system for positioning a patient relative to a patient restraint board during radiation therapy includes a piece of low-melt thermoplastic material affixed to a rigid, non-thermoplastic frame. A lock-down mechanism is integrally incorporated into the rigid, non-thermoplastic frame, such that a manipulable portion of the lock-down mechanism extends upward from the surface of the rigid frame so that it is accessible by the user. An engagement member extends downward from the underside of the rigid frame such that it can engage corresponding holes in a patient restraint board, such that when the rigid frame is pushed down so that its engagement members fully engage the corresponding holes of the patient restraint board, then the thermoplastic mask system may by tightly secured to the patient restraint board by activating the lock-down mechanism.

Abstract: The device configured in accordance with one or more embodiments of the invention comprises a base element having a head support region and an upper body support region. The base element is configured to rest upon a base platform that has an attachment point for securing the base element to the base platform and a joint element that enables movement of the base element into an angled position. A restraint mechanism extends from the base platform and is configured to hold the patient's shoulders in position. Head support elements on each side of the device acts as a mechanism for restricting mobility of the patient's head. By holding the shoulders and head the device is able to also restrict neck movement. Reducing patient movement enables diagnostic angiography using a digital subtraction technique (DSA) of the head, neck, and upper shoulder, as well as both non-catheter-based and catheter-based interventions without motion artifact.

Abstract: A garment with restricted internal access has an upper portion adapted to cover an upper body of a wearer and a lower portion adapted to cover a lower body of the wearer. The upper portion and the lower portion of the body are secured together to prevent access between the upper body portion and the lower body portion. The upper portion has a peripheral sidewall with elongate arm accommodating sleeves. A liner lines the upper portion. An internal pocket is formed by circumferentially securing the liner to the peripheral sidewall of the upper portion a spaced interval below the sleeves. The sleeves of the liner are independent of the sleeves of the upper portion. When the wearer withdraws his or her arm from one of the sleeves of the upper portion, the sleeves of the liner continue to engage the arm and the wearer's internal access to the body is restricted to the internal pocket.

Abstract: A child safety restraining device comprising: (a) one ankle strap having a first end and a second end; (b) means for fastening the first end and the second end of the ankle strap to each other; (c) one anchor strap having a first end and a second end; (d) means for attaching the first end of the anchor strap and the ankle strap to each other; and (e) means for anchoring the second end of the anchor strap to an apparatus, e.g. a shopping cart, in which a child may be seated, at an anchoring point on the apparatus. Also provided are methods of using such a device to restrain seated children and increase their safety.

Abstract: A medical device for overcoming upper airway obstruction when a patient is placed in a supine position, featuring a flat rectangular support base that attaches to the support frame perpendicularly, and a variation of lower jaw supports that attach to the support frame after encircling the patient's lower jaw.

Abstract: A medical device for overcoming upper airway obstruction when a patient is placed in a supine position, featuring a flat rectangular support base that attaches to the support frame perpendicularly, and a variation of lower jaw supports that attach to the support frame after encircling the patient's lower jaw.

Abstract: A medical device for overcoming upper airway obstruction when a patient is placed in a supine position, featuring a flat rectangular support base that attaches to the support frame perpendicularly, and a variation of lower jaw supports that attach to the support frame after encircling the patient's lower jaw.

Abstract: A device and method as disclosed relates to a bed mountable restraining device for confining a living being such as an infant, or a small animal, to a mattress of a bed. The device includes a base including a sheet of pliable material which is suitably sized to fit on the top surface of the mattress. A plurality of mounting straps are fixed to the base. An enclosure is attached to the base, whereby the adjustable straps may be releasably attached to the mattress by securing the straps over portions of the mattress.

Abstract: The device with vacuum bag for pressure therapy solves the problem of accurate measuring of the under-pressure created in the vacuum bag and the problem of appropriate adjustment of the liner clothing to individual patients. he device with vacuum bag for pressure therapy according to the invention consists of a vacuum bag, specially designed liner clothing, and a control and measuring unit, situated in a housing, including a pressure gauge, which has direct connection to the vacuum bag through a tube. The air is sucked out from the bag through tubes attached on the one side to six connections on the vacuum bag and on the other side to connections provided on the housing. The liner clothing consists of several pieces designed for different parts of the body. The liner clothing pieces are made of two layers of porous fabric sewn together with longitudinal seams.

Abstract: A medical device for overcoming upper airway obstruction when a patient is placed in a supine position, featuring a flat rectangular support base that attaches to the support frame perpendicularly, and a variation of lower jaw supports that attach to the support frame after encircling the patient's lower jaw.

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: A keyboard posture device includes a lateral support shaft, left and right members, and left and right arm restraints. The frame member may be adjustably movable along the support shaft. Left and right arm restraints are also optionally adjustably movable, forward and back, on the forward struts of the left and right frame members respectively. The arm restraints extend forward from the struts and away from each other to form left and right arm crooks. The device may further includes a back pad and a wraparound strap to secure the device to the torso of the user.

Abstract: A torso support portion and a pair of thigh support portions are each formed of an outer layer of hard relatively stiff molded plastic material of limited flexibility and an inner layer of relatively soft cushioning material for distributing the weight of a patient over a large area. The torso support portion may comprise a rear panel adjustable secured between two body panels. Tightening straps serve to tighten the torso support portion about a patient with the parts of the torso support portion adjacent the front opposite free sides of the two body panels overlapping one another in operative position. A pair of tightening straps serve to tighten each of the thigh support portions about the thighs of a patient with the free sides of each thigh support portion spaced a substantial distance from one another in operative position. Four adjustable suspension straps are provided for suspending the torso support portion and provide a quick-release feature.

Abstract: Various embodiments of a patient removal system are provided for evacuating a patient during an emergency. The patient removal systems may be used to transport the patient while the patient is on a mattress, or the patient removal systems may be used to transport the patient without the mattress. The patient removal systems permit caregivers to transport patients out of danger or harm without requiring patient support devices to be transported along with the patients.

Abstract: A medical device for overcoming upper airway obstruction when a patient is placed in a supine position, featuring a flat rectangular support base that attaches to the support frame perpendicularly, and a variation of lower jaw supports that attach to the support frame after encircling the patient's lower jaw.

Abstract: A medical device for overcoming upper airway obstruction when a patient is placed in a supine position, featuring a harness, a clip that attaches to the harness, and a plate or a bed that receives the clip that is attached to the harness after the medical device is placed on the patient.

Abstract: A restraint system includes a wrist restraint system and an ankle restraint system that allow the limbs of a detainee to be restrained. The lockable wrist restraint system includes a waist belt and wrist restraints that are rotatably mounted to the waist belt. The wrist restraints can be positioned anywhere around the waist belt. The lockable ankle restraint system includes a strap and two buckles that form the strap into two loops. Each loop is used to restrain a leg of the detainee. A lockable buckle includes a housing that creates a tortuous path that traps a strap to which the buckle is mounted and prevents the strap from being adjusted or removed from the detainee.