Abstract: Comfort fit natural breast shape revealing nipple concealer having concealer stack with multiple tapered layers of selected materials, diameters, and rigidities positioned in between inner and outer layers of a bra or other garment functioning to depress and conceal a women's nipple in a manner that reveals her natural breast shape and is comfortable to wear.

Abstract: A cover device may include a body with an inner surface and an outer surface, each of the inner surface and the outer surface extending from a first end face of the body to a second end face of the body. The inner surface may define a channel extending through the body from the first end face to the second end face. The outer surface may define a plurality of grooves extending from the first end face to the second end face. Each of the body, the inner surface, and the outer surface may be configured to elastically deform relative to at least an axis of the channel.

Abstract: A nursing monitoring device includes an inlet conduit with an inlet opening to enable milk that is released from a nipple to enter the inlet conduit. An outlet conduit with an outlet opening enables milk from the outlet conduit to enter a mouth of a nursing child. A measurement unit connected to the inlet conduit and to the outlet conduit enables measurement of a property of the milk that flows from the inlet conduit to the outlet conduit via the measurement unit. The outlet conduit is sufficiently long to enable placement of the measurement unit laterally to the mouth.

Abstract: Systems and methods for pumping milk from a breast, wherein the milk is expressed from the breast under suction and milk is expulsed from the pumping mechanism to a collection container under positive pressure.

Abstract: A method for repairing a perforation in a tympanic membrane comprising attaching a single patch to an undersurface of the tympanic membrane covering the perforation.

Abstract: A nipple abrasion protector consists of a generally disc-shaped translucent polymeric adhesive film with adhesively affixed to one side of a release paper. The protector is removed from the paper and applied to the nipple to prevent chafing from contact with a shirt or other garment during extended physical activities like running and is semi-transparent or translucent and not readily detectable during activities like swimming or surfing. In addition, the protector is perforated with pores for breathablilty and has a cross-hatched surface texture to improve adhesion and flexibility. Moreover, the removable nipple protector adheres tightly to the areola and is capable of resisting protrusion of the nipple. The protector is free from materials such as latex which may incite an allergic reaction.

Abstract: An apparatus allowing a woman to pump milk from her breasts without the necessity of the woman's hands holding the breast pumps utilizes at least one band of material encircling the woman's chest, the band of material provided with two openings corresponding to the woman's breasts. A center panel would be provided to adjust the fit of the band. Additionally, in another embodiment, a back panel would be used in conjunction with the center panel to connect left and right panels together, the left and right panels including openings for a woman's breast. In all of the embodiments, semicircular pieces would cover each of the openings. In yet another embodiment, a removable piece is attached to the front of the apparatus, allowing the woman to wear the apparatus all day, even in public.

Abstract: Embodiments of a system and method for protecting mammalian tissue regions, the system including a removable guard cap. Other embodiments may be described and claimed.

Abstract: One aspect of the present application relates to a covering member for a protruding portion of a patient's body. This cover is flexible and collapsible so that it conforms to the shape of the encased portion of the body.

Abstract: A nipple protection device for breast-feeding mothers having a nipple portion projecting upwardly from an arched shield portion. The nipple portion is provided with at least one drinking opening at its front side. The nipple portion is of generally oval cross-section and the at least one drinking opening is formed by at least one longitudinal slit.

Abstract: The medical protective cover includes a semi-ovoid shell configured to cover a wound or intravenous site. The shell is attached to a patient's limb or extremity by a pair of adhesive tabs extending from longitudinal ends of the shell and a plurality of adjustable straps extending laterally from the shell. A plurality of ventilation holes longitudinally extend along lateral edges of the shell to allow passage of air for keeping the covered area dry. Each longitudinal end of the shell includes a pair of tubing ports to facilitate mounting and passage of IV infusion tubing to an IV catheter or cannula. The top of the shell also includes a selectively opened slot that permits passage of a needle for the administration or withdrawal of fluids through an access port of the catheter.

Abstract: An improved post-operative dressing for providing both breast and, notably, nipple reconstruction and which in particular establishes custom lateral supporting of the nipple annulus. A body is constructed of a medical grade silicone and exhibits a three dimensional shape adapted for placement over the reconstructed breast and an aperture defined by an inner rim configured within the body is adapted to seat therethrough an associated nipple graft in a laterally supporting and non-pressure applied fashion. A number of secondary advantages incorporated into the body include each of apertures for breathability, suction/adherence properties, and impregnation or entrainment within the body inner surface of any form of anti-infection medicine.

Abstract: A reusable, washable breast shield for use by lactating women. The shield may include an inner layer and an outer layer. The shield may be placed against the breast of the user and may be held in place with an article of clothing or may be used without supporting clothing.

Abstract: A nipple abrasion protector consists of a generally disc-shaped translucent polymeric adhesive film with adhesively affixed to one side of a release paper. The protector is removed from the paper and applied to the nipple to prevent chafing from contact with a shirt or other garment during extended physical activities like running and is semi-transparent or translucent and not readily detectable during activities like swimming or surfing. In addition, the protector is perforated with pores for breathablilty and has a cross-hatched surface texture to improve adhesion and flexibility. Moreover, the removable nipple protector adheres tightly to the areola and is capable of resisting protrusion of the nipple. The protector is free from materials such as latex which may incite an allergic reaction.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for covering body parts. Body part covers may be pre-shaped and pre-sized to cover various parts of one's body, or may be fabricated in a generic shape, and cut by the user to a custom shape of the user's choice. Body part covers may also include lettering on one or more surfaces of the body part cover. The lettering may be implemented as text, words, abbreviations, messages, symbols, graphics, designs, phrases and the like. The body part cover may also include an additive such as a scent or fragrance, for example, or may be implemented as scented or unscented copulins or pheromones.

Abstract: One aspect of the present invention relates to a covering member for a protruding portion of a patient's body. This cover is flexible and collapsible so that it conforms to the shape of the encased portion of the body. This prevents the cover from being noticed while it is worn under clothing. The cover can contain a medicament or agent for pretreating a portion of the body before an examination or procedure. When the cover is used to apply a topical anesthetic to a portion of the body for a recommended period of time prior to the procedure or examination commencing, the amount of discomfort experienced by the patient can be significantly reduced compared to the amount experienced by the patient who has the anesthetic applied for just a few moments before the procedure begins. Alternatively, the cover can be used to hold a medicament or agent on the intended portion of the body in order to heal a wound or cure a condition such as a skin rash or the like.

Abstract: A nipple protector is provided, which is able to protect a nipple of a user reliably, by protecting the nipple area so as to maintain a non-contact state with the nipple area and thereby avoiding the causing of pain or unpleasant irritation to the nipple area, as well as avoiding the leaving of marks while reducing irritation when abutted against the breast. A nipple protector having a hard outer member or shell and an inner member made of a material which is more flexible and deformable than the outer member, with an internal space being formed inside the nipple protector, wherein the internal space is formed by a cylindrical portion which extends from the outer member and/or the inner member, and the inner member has an abutting section which surrounds with no gap the nipple area of a wearer completely, and the abutting section is a deformable abutting section which deforms elastically and is capable of making contact, with no gap, with the perimeter of the nipple area.

Abstract: A reusable, washable breast shield for use by lactating women. The shield may include an inner layer and an outer layer. The shield may be placed against the breast of the user and may be held in place with an article of clothing or may be used without supporting clothing.

Abstract: A protective cover for nipples and areolas employable during nipple or breast reconstructive surgery. The device has an axial cavity in a central portion of a resilient body employable for placement about the nipple or reconstructed nipple therein. The device is infinitely customizable in axial cavity diameter and vertical height by means of one or a plurality of removably engaged central portions.

Abstract: A nipple reconstruction device includes a core component having a substantially circular hollow opening therein for receiving a person's nipple; padding attached to a lower part of the core and substantially lining the lower part of the core and at least a portion of the hollow opening in the core, and an attaching component constructed and adapted to hold the device in place on the person's skin. The core may be a semi-rigid, pliable, high durometer material. The padding may be gauze, woven rayon cellulose, cotton, a cotton/polyester blend material; or a non-woven, one-sided medical tape. The attaching component may be an adhesive tape having a plurality of tabs for holding the device in place on the person's skin.

Abstract: One aspect of the present invention relates to a covering member for a protruding portion of a patient's body. This cover is flexible and collapsible so that it conforms to the shape of the encased portion of the body. This prevents the cover from being noticed while it is worn under clothing. The cover can contain a medicament or agent for pretreating a portion of the body before an examination or procedure. When the cover is used to apply a topical anesthetic to a portion of the body for a recommended period of time prior to the procedure or examination commencing, the amount of discomfort experienced by the patient can be significantly reduced compared to the amount experienced by the patient who has the anesthetic applied for just a few moments before the procedure begins. Alternatively, the cover can be used to hold a medicament or agent on the intended portion of the body in order to heal a wound or cure a condition such as a skin rash or the like.

Abstract: A nipple protector is provided, which is able to protect a nipple of a user reliably, by protecting the nipple area so as to maintain a non-contact state with the nipple area and thereby avoiding the causing of pain or unpleasant irritation to the nipple area, as well as avoiding the leaving of marks while reducing irritation when abutted against the breast. A nipple protector having a hard outer member or shell and an inner member made of a material which is more flexible and deformable than the outer member, with an internal space being formed inside the nipple protector, wherein the internal space is formed by a cylindrical portion which extends from the outer member and/or the inner member, and the inner member has an abutting section which surrounds with no gap the nipple area of a wearer completely, and the abutting section is a deformable abutting section which deforms elastically and is capable of making contact, with no gap, with the perimeter of the nipple area.

Abstract: A nursing brassiere providing nipple protection against discomfort associated with breast-feeding having two identical cups, each having a centered aperture to expose a woman's nipple and interchangeable pad and shield attached via snaps to cover the aperture and a flap to cover the pad or shield. The pad is flexible and absorbent to prevent leaking, while the shield has a nipple with a drinking opening to allow an infant to breast feed. The shield also has a plastic ring seal to prevent leaking onto a woman's skin or clothes during breast feeding.

Abstract: A device for protecting a nipple of a mother during nursing includes a collar generally configured to removably join to a portion of the mother's breast surrounding the nipple. The collar includes an annular opening and a cut out for enabling additional skin contact between the mother and the feeding baby. The collar is comprised of a pliable material. Means removably joins the collar to the mother's breast. A funnel extends from the annular opening for surrounding the nipple. The funnel includes an opening at a distal end for enabling the mother's milk to flow out to a feeding baby. The collar is comprised of a pliable material and a wall of the funnel is generally thicker than a wall of the collar for mitigating effects of the nipple being bitten by the feeding baby.

Abstract: One aspect of the present invention relates to a covering member for a protruding portion of a patient's body. This cover is flexible and collapsible so that it conforms to the shape of the encased portion of the body. This prevents the cover from being noticed while it is worn under clothing. The cover can contain a medicament or agent for pretreating a portion of the body before an examination or procedure. When the cover is used to apply a topical anesthetic to a portion of the body for a recommended period of time prior to the procedure or examination commencing, the amount of discomfort experienced by the patient can be significantly reduced compared to the amount experienced by the patient who has the anesthetic applied for just a few moments before the procedure begins. Alternatively, the cover can be used to hold a medicament or agent on the intended portion of the body in order to heal a wound or cure a condition such as a skin rash or the like.

Abstract: A nipple guard to be worn over and against the breast of a nursing mother to reduce discomfort caused by the biting and/or hard sucking of a nursing newborn. The nipple guard includes a breast cup that is sized and shaped to fit over the mother's breast. A flexible strap connected to the nipple guard is of sufficient length to run completely around the back of the mother and apply a pulling force to hold the breast cup against the mother's breast. A resilient ring extends around the periphery of the breast cup to cushion the force of the breast cup being pulled against the mother's breast. A hole is formed through the breast cup to receive the mother's nipple, and a cylindrical sucking tube communicates with the hole and projects from the breast cup. The sucking tube surrounds and protects the mother's nipple, such that a natural sucking force generated by the nursing newborn is applied to the nipple via the tube. The nipple guard is ideally suited to be worn below a conventional nursing bra.

Abstract: One aspect of the present invention relates to a covering member for a protruding portion of a patient's body. This cover is flexible and collapsible so that it conforms to the shape of the encased portion of the body. This prevents the cover from being noticed while it is worn under clothing. The cover can contain a medicament or agent for pretreating a portion of the body before an examination or procedure. When the cover is used to apply a topical anesthetic to a portion of the body for a recommended period of time prior to the procedure or examination commencing, the amount of discomfort experienced by the patient can be significantly reduced compared to the amount experienced by the patient who has the anesthetic applied for just a few moments before the procedure begins. Alternatively, the cover can be used to hold a medicament or agent on the intended portion of the body in order to heal a wound or cure a condition such as a skin rash or the like.

Abstract: A method of covering a nipple on a human breast, the nipple cover having a center and including a flexible material for conforming to a human breast, the method including the method steps of placing the nipple cover directly on a human breast so as to cover at least about one half and less then all of the breast, with the center of the cover proximate the nipple; the nipple cover having a first thickness proximate the center and a second thickness proximate a periphery thereof, the thickness of the nipple cover gradually tapering from the first thickness to the second thickness, wherein the method further includes the step of being the nipple cover on the breast such that the periphery of the cover blends smoothly with a curved portion of the breast while concealing a nipple shape.

Abstract: A method of staining an ocular structure, the structure being a human or other mammalian eye or portion thereof, the method comprising staining the ocular structure with either indigotindisulfonate, Patent Blue V, Sulphan Blue, tolonium chloride, or Evans Blue. Ocular structures of particular interest are the anterior lens capsule and the vitreo-retinal interface.

Abstract: A nipple configuration for use on baby bottles and in breast shields particularly adapted for feeding and nursing newborns. The configuration includes body and nipple portions integrally formed of a soft flexible material and defining raised ridges or other surface irregularities thereon so as to provide the feel of a mother's breast and nipple. The nipple projects outwardly from the body portion and defines a fluid passageway extending axially therethrough and a plurality of discharge openings in the extended end thereof. A flexible reinforcing tube extends through the passageway communicating the fluid openings with the interior of the body portion and preventing the nipple from collapsing upon being sucked by a newborn. The device can also be used on a pacifier for developing the sucking reflex and, in a modified form, for feeding and nursing newborns having a cleft-lip or palate.

Abstract: A method for preventing or healing injured nipples or areolas in mammalian females. The method involves positioning an absorbent medium over at least a portion of a nipple and areolar region of a mammalian female breast. Next, pressure is applied to the absorbent medium over at least a portion of the nipple and areolar region sufficient to prevent or heal injured nipples or areolas.

Abstract: A device to assist in the reading of an illuminated image is disclosed. The device comprises a blocking member including a plurality of blocking portions pivotally mounted together at a common pivot point so as to be pivotable between a storage position and a use position. Each blocking portion has a distal end, the distal ends of the blocking portions defining a curved edge of the blocking member when the blocking portions are disposed in the use position. The blocking member is at least partially opaque for placement over a portion of the illuminated image to block at least a substantial portion of the illumination light. The curved edge is sized so as to approximate the size and shape of a portion of the illuminated image. The device has particular utility with breast X-ray film and CRT images, including such images where breast implants are present. Two embodiments of the device are disclosed, along with a related method.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a C-shaped thermal heat pack for heating the female breast during post partum nursing and, more particularly, to a thermal heat pack which readily conforms to the contours of different sized female breasts to provide therapeutic heat to an adjacent breast to reduce swelling and irritation. The present invention overcomes the disadvantages of the prior art by providing a bendable thermal heat unit which assumes a cup or cone shape upon application to the breast. The present invention adjusts and conforms to various sizes of the female breasts to which it is to be applied. The present invention provides a layered conformable member with a C-shape having a selected indentation to permit formation of various sized rounded conical cups. A centrally located hole is provided for insertion of a nipple therethrough.

Abstract: A breastfeeding breast support roll is constructed of an outer layer of soft, absorbent material filled with compressible and or resilient material. The breastfeeding breast support roll is placed underneath the breastfeeding breast, allowing a woman to breastfeed an infant in an upright position without difficulty. The breastfeeding support roll lifts the breast upright and directs the nipple outward to enable proper positioning of the baby to latch onto the nipple for proper breastfeeding. The breastfeeding breast support roll promotes successful breastfeeding efforts by providing a breastfeeding aid that is portable, compact, convenient and simple to use and position.

Abstract: A bandage that has a securing portion made of any adhesive material connected to a domed portion that is made of any rigid material that is pleated in the middle that provides shielding to protected areas from physical trauma that also flexes and allows air to flow to and from the protected area.

Abstract: A washable or disposable nursing pad with an augmented lower region primarily for nighttime use comprising a first two to twenty layers of a washable absorbent fabric or a disposable paper-like sheet material with a second two to twenty layers of the same materials, but smaller in size than the first two to twenty layers of material, sewn in between on the lower region of the pad. The pad is large enough to cover substantially the entire female breast and to fill substantially the typical bra cup.

Abstract: The invention developed is a nursing pad assembly suitable for absorbing lacteal fluid which is conformable to the human breast. It includes a conformable casing comprising a central area and a plurality of outwardly extending fingers, the central area possessing a pocket having a front opening and a rear opening; an absorbent padding material located in the pocket and capable of being removed through the front opening; and adhesively attaching the outwardly extending fingers to an area surrounding the nipple in such fashion that the nipple will contact the absorbent padding material through the rear opening. When the absorbent padding material is removed from the pocket, the nipple will be exposed through the front opening to enable nursing without requiring removal of the entire pad assembly.

Abstract: An electrocautery probe for penetrating through tissue. The probe comprises a tissue-compatible, flexible sleeve; an exposed electrode carried at one end of the sleeve; a wire connected at one end to the electrode and extending through the sleeve; and an electrical connector attached to the other end of the wire. The connector is suitable for attachment to a source of electrocautery power. The wire is separate from the sleeve, to be removable by pulling from the sleeve when the electrode is cut away or otherwise removed from the sleeve. Thus, the probe can penetrate tissue by electrocautery action to form a tissue tunnel, and the electrode and wire can then be removed, leaving at least a portion of the sleeve in the tissue tunnel to serve as a drainage catheter.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a C-shaped thermal heat pack for heating the female breast during post partum nursing and, more particularly, to a thermal heat pack which readily conforms to the contours of different sized female breasts to provide therapeutic heat to an adjacent breast to reduce swelling and irritation. The present invention overcomes the disadvantages of the prior art by providing a bendable thermal heat unit which assumes a cup or cone shape upon application to the breast. The present invention adjusts and conforms to various sizes of the female breasts to which it is to be applied. The present invention provides a layered conformable member with a C-shape having a selected indentation to permit formation of various sized rounded conical cups. A centrally located hole is provided for insertion of a nipple therethrough.

Abstract: A common problem among male distance runners and athletes is male nipple abrasion from tee shirts or jerseys during extended exercise. Some men suffer severe chafing and bleeding nipples when they run long distances caused, in large part, as salt crystals forming as perspiration evaporates. The Male Nipple Abrasion Protector device is formed to fit comfortably over the nipple with an adhesive backing that adheres to the dark nipple area (base). The external material has low friction allowing to easily slide against a tee shirt, sweat shirt, normal shirt or outer wear. The adhesive backing will resist perspiration and can be easily removed when desired. The protectors are simple, low cost and disposable. The Male Nipple Abrasion Protector does not require straps or bra type configurations.

Abstract: An adapter for use with an apparatus for the control of human lactation. The apparatus comprising a support having an outer surface and an inner surface that is shaped to conform substantially to a human female breast and having a protrusion which extends away from the support and is positioned to align substantially with a nipple of a human female. The adapter comprises an attachment having a second outer surface and a second inner surface. The second outer surface has a second protrusion extending away from the second outer surface and is shaped to fit over the first protrusion. The second inner surface is positioned to align substantially with and contact a nipple of the human female breast to prevent the human female breast from lactating when the apparatus with the adapter is placed over the human female breast.

Abstract: Disposable protective wear for persons who sun tan, providing a shield for sensitive parts of the body against exposure, while allowing for maximum coloring of the body and sanitary conditions within tanning salons. The disposable protective wear consists of separate articles of face cover, adjustable lower cover and breast covers, all with adhesive means to hold the articles in place on the wearer.

Abstract: An apparatus comprising a support having an outer surface and an inner surface that is shaped to conform substantially to a human female breast and having a protrusion with a substantially flat, nipple-contacting surface which extends away from the support and is positioned to align substantially with and contact a nipple of a human female breast prevents a human female breast from lactating when placed over the breast. The present invention also provides a method for controlling human lactation which utilizes the present apparatus and includes the steps of placing and positioning the apparatus over the breast and applying pressure on the apparatus sufficient to prevent lactation.

Abstract: A heating pad is disclosed. The heating pad is essentially "C-shaped" and is filled with a chemical composition. When activated by the triggering device, the chemical composition undergoes a reversible exothermic reaction and generates heat that warms the breast or other body part with which it is in contact. Because of its shape, the heating pad fits comfortably around the human female breast and efficiently transfers heat to the breast when activated. Also disclosed is an embodiment where the heating pad is connected to a breast pump so that the heating pad warms the breast while the breast pump is being used.

Abstract: An apparatus having a support having an outer surface and an inner surface that is shaped to conform substantially to a human female breast and having a protrusion which extends away from the support and is positioned to align substantially with and contact a nipple of a human female breast prevents a human female breast from lactating when placed over the breast. The present invention also provides a method for controlling human lactation which utilizes the present apparatus and includes the steps of placing and positioning the apparatus over the breast and applying pressure on the apparatus sufficient to prevent lactation.

Abstract: A device for repairing a tympanic membrane comprises a patch provided on one side with an adhesive layer, and an elongate tubular applicator member having a proximal end and a distal end. The patch is removably attached via suction to the distal end of the tubular applicator member so that the adhesive layer faces away from the elongate applicator member. The proximal end of the tubular applicator member is temporarily closed or sealed to maintain the suction force, thereby holding the tympanic patch to the distal end of the applicator tube while the tube is being inserted through the auditory canal. Upon a pressing of the patch against the ear drum so that the patch covers the perforation, the proximal end of the tube is released to pressurize the tube channel with ambient air. This pressurization releases the patch and allows it to adhere to the tympanic membrane.

Abstract: Areola and nipple prosthesis device for application to the surface of a human breast comprising an areola portion having an inner concave surface which conforms to the shape of a human breast to which it is applied and an outer convex surface. The inner concave surface includes an adhesive for removably positioning the prosthesis to the human breast. The nipple portion of the device is disposed proximate to the center of areola portion and extends outwardly from the outer surface of the areola portion.

Abstract: A breast shield is described having a dome-shaped shell with an open bottom and an elastic member that extends across the open bottom. The elastic member has an opening through which the breast nipple extends into the interior of the shell. The elastic member serves as a base or mount for the shell which resiliently spaces the shell from contacting the nipple. One embodiment of the shield aids in reinverting a nipple that is inverted.

Abstract: A transparent bandage for substantially sealing a wound consisting of a semi-rigid frame for defining an opening and a resilient transparent membrane member substantially covering the opening in order to form a transparent window. The transparent material is such that air and vapors can permeate the material in a first direction and contaminants and fluids are prevented from entering the wound area from an opposite direction. A flap can be secured to the frame such that a user cannot see any of the wound covered by the transparent material when the flap is closed. Several embodiments of the invention are shown consisting of different shapes for different medical needs. A third and fourth embodiment are included for holding tracheal or other types of tubes to a patient such that the area around which the tube is inserted can be readily observed.

Abstract: A layer of plastic, either in film or coating form, is bonded to a sheet of non-woven material to form a base. When film is used, it is preferably smaller in size than the non-woven material and affixed to the top surface thereof by an acrylic adhesive. The plastic film is coated, on its exposed surface, with a layer of acrylic adhesive. When the plastic is in the form of a coating, it is bonded to the bottom surface of the non-woven material. A superabsorbent pad, smaller in size than the base, is wrapped in non-woven material and affixed to the base by the exposed adhesive layer. The remaining portion of the exposed adhesive layer forms a border around the superabsorbent pad for adhering the bandage to the skin.