Hook And Loop Type Fastener Patents (Class 128/DIG15)
  • Patent number: 6002965
    Abstract: An elongated rectangular cuff having fasteners and electrodes with an attached control unit for providing a predetermined electrical signal to the electrodes. The predetermined electrical signal is substantially a square wave with a duration of between 0.1 and 0.3 milliseconds, a frequency of between 0.1 and 0.5 Hertz, with 5 to 15 repetitions delivered every 5 to 15 minute intervals. The control unit provides a controllable intensity of between 1 to 20 milliamperes. The cuff or sleeve, when wrapped around a user's leg and positioned below the knee such that the electrodes contact the calf muscles, causes a muscle and nerve stimulation resulting in contraction of the calf muscle. Blood flow is therefore increased regardless of body position or a movement greatly decreasing the possibility of developing deep vein thrombosis or pulmonary embolism, which may be fatal. In addition it reduces ankle edema and leg discomfort associated with prolonged sitting.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 10, 1998
    Date of Patent: December 14, 1999
    Inventors: Amiram Katz, Orly Katz
  • Patent number: 5709650
    Abstract: An orthopedic appliance for reinforcing a patient's skeletal anatomy from a rigid shell fitted at the inside to the patient at skin overlying the skeletal anatomy to be reinforced, has an improvement for adhering the rigid shell to the skin of the patient. A strip of flexible tensile tape has a first side for fitting to the skin of a patent and a second side outward exposed for fitting to the inside of the rigid shell. A hypoallergenic non-inflammatory adhesive is coated on one side of the strip of flexible tape for fitting to the skin. Means for removable attachment to the inside of the rigid shell is placed on the second side of the strip of flexible tape for outward exposure and attachment to the rigid shell. Complimentary means for removable attachment is fitted to the inside of the rigid shell. This attachment transfers loading from the skin of the patient to the rigid shell for orthopedically reinforcing the skeletal anatomy of the patient.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 6, 1996
    Date of Patent: January 20, 1998
    Inventor: John P. Colman
  • Patent number: 5676137
    Abstract: A medical device securing apparatus for releasably securing at least one medical device to a supporting object. The securing apparatus includes a foundation strap (12) and a securing mechanism for releasably securing the foundation strap to a supporting object (22). An engaging strap (26) extends outwardly from a second end portion (16) of the foundation strap (12) for being received about at least a portion of at least one medical device. Also included is a securing strap (30), secured at its proximal end (31) to the foundation strap (12), for releasably engaging at least a portion of the distal end portion (28) of the engaging strap (26), after the engaging strap has been received about at least a portion of at least one medical device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 24, 1996
    Date of Patent: October 14, 1997
    Inventor: Timothy N. Byrd
  • Patent number: 5671732
    Abstract: The invention relates to a tracheostomy tube holder having a strap and at least two tabs. The tabs are designed to pass through slots on the tracheostomy tube. The tabs have VELCRO type hook surfaces on their ends for releasable attachment to the exterior surface of the strap which has a soft VELCRO type loop surface. This provides for a tracheostomy tube holder which is inexpensive to make and use and which provides significant flexibility in the initial installation and subsequent replacement of individual components when they become soiled in use.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 27, 1995
    Date of Patent: September 30, 1997
    Assignee: Tecnol Medical Products, Inc.
    Inventor: Michael L. Bowen
  • Patent number: 5672404
    Abstract: Attachment strips that can be withdrawn from an enclosure, each comprising a flexible backing layer, a field of hooks along and projecting from one of its surfaces; and a first layer of pressure sensitive adhesive along one of its surfaces. The strips can be releasably adhered to each other by their layers of adhesive to form a stack in which first and second ends of successive strips are adjacent.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 13, 1995
    Date of Patent: September 30, 1997
    Assignee: Minnesota Mining and Manufacturing Company
    Inventors: Joseph P. Callahan, Jr., Kevin M. Hamer, Patricia R. Konsti, David C. Windorski
  • Patent number: 5669900
    Abstract: A loop material for a hook and loop fastening system composed of: 1) a backing material; and 2) a layer of a nonwoven spunbond web attached to the backing material, the nonwoven spunbond web comprising a plurality of continuous intertwined filaments, each having a diameter of about 25 to about 100 microns, the plurality of filaments laid randomly to define a plurality of intertwined loop springs, each having a diameter of about 0.5 to about 3 millimeters.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 3, 1994
    Date of Patent: September 23, 1997
    Assignee: Kimberly-Clark Worldwide, Inc.
    Inventors: Edward Paul Bullwinkel, Leon Eugene Chambers, Jr., Robert Gillette Geer, Jay Sheldon Shultz
  • Patent number: 5653244
    Abstract: A therapeutic compression garment made of flexible, foldable, light weight Velcro-type loop fabric having a central region for wrapping partially around a body part and a plurality of pairs of bands integrally connected to the central region and extending outwardly in opposite directions from both sides of the central region to encompass the body part.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 4, 1996
    Date of Patent: August 5, 1997
    Assignee: Circaid Medical Products, Inc.
    Inventor: Sandra Anne Shaw
  • Patent number: 5643236
    Abstract: A holder for a urinary drainage bag for securing the bag to a patient's leg. The weight of the urinary drainage bag is supported by a waistband which encircles the patient's waist. The urinary drainage bag is affixed to a partial pantleg which is suspended from the waistband. The partial pantleg is split and adjustably encircles the patient's thigh. The partial pantleg is comprised of a twilled fabric and prevents a typically plastic or vinyl urinary drainage bag from making contact with the patient's thigh. The urinary drainage bag is affixed to the partial pantleg by means of a plurality of buttons provided on the partial pantleg. The buttons are arranged so that as the urinary drainage bag expands the buttonholes formed integrally with the urinary drainage bag will slide with respect to the buttons and not pull or tug on the partial pantleg. The partial pantleg need not be tightly secured to the wearer's thigh in order to be effective.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 12, 1995
    Date of Patent: July 1, 1997
    Inventor: Jack D. Hadley
  • Patent number: 5638814
    Abstract: An endotracheal tube holding device for securing the position of an endotracheal tube. The tube holding device (10) includes first and second tube engaging apparatus (14, 16), each of which includes a foundation strap (24) having an outer bonding surface (30) proximate its distal end portion (26). Each of the tube engaging apparatus (14, 16) also includes a tube engaging strap (36) for releasably engaging and securing the position of the endotracheal tube (12). The tube engaging straps (36) each define a proximal end (38) secured to the operatively associated foundation strap (24) and an inner surface (42) coated with an adhesive for releasably engaging the outer bonding surface (30) of the operatively associated foundation strap (24).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 18, 1995
    Date of Patent: June 17, 1997
    Inventor: Timothy N. Byrd
  • Patent number: 5623924
    Abstract: A device and associated method for retaining an endotracheal tube in a set position during a period of intubation. The device includes a tubular element that extends at least partially into the mouth of the patient being intubated. The tubular element has an interior surface upon which is affixed a first piece of hook and loop fastening material. A second piece of hook and loop fastening material is affixed to the endotracheal tube to be used during intubation. The endotracheal tube is advanced into the patient through the center of the tubular element. As the hook and loop material on the endotracheal tube advances into the tubular element, an interference fit occurs between the hook and loop fastening material on the endotracheal tube and the hook and loop fastening material lining the tubular element. As the two section of hook and loop fastening material engage one another, the two sections adhere to one another, thereby connecting the endotracheal tube to the tubular element.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 29, 1996
    Date of Patent: April 29, 1997
    Inventors: Tammy S. Lindenman, Kathryn E. Aubry
  • Patent number: 5624391
    Abstract: The invention relates to an elastic bandage for medical use. A base part of the bandage is made of pure cotton cloth or other fabric with a cloth cover on a transverse side in which a drainage aperture is defined. On opposite transverse sides of the base part there are respectively provided two outlying parts of the bandage with a drainage aperture in each of them. On opposite transverse sides of the base part there are respectively two safety bands and two suspenders on a longitudinal side of base part. The safety bands and the outlying parts are fastened together with fasteners.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 5, 1994
    Date of Patent: April 29, 1997
    Inventors: Lidi Fan, Dongfa Xu, Jinshu Cao, Jianming Lu
  • Patent number: 5623131
    Abstract: A cover encloses the center sound tube and head of a stethoscope. The head cover can be extended over the head of a stethoscope and may be separate from or coupled to the center sound tube cover. A cover flap can extend over an upper end of the center sound tube cover and between lateral sound tubes of the stethoscope to preclude an unintentional engagement with hair.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 18, 1995
    Date of Patent: April 22, 1997
    Inventor: Tommy L. Earnest
  • Patent number: 5584302
    Abstract: A pad cover for a Wilson Spinal Surgery Frame includes a first section spaced apart from a second section, and joined to the second section by a bridge. The first and second sections are foam rubber and substantially rectangular. The pad cover is preferably attached to the Wilson Frame using Velcro hook and loop tape. The pad cover may be provided in a kit which also includes a kneeling pad and attachment tape strips. The pad cover increases patient comfort by cushioning the patient's torso and by avoiding having the patient rest on tape or other uncomfortable surfaces.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 28, 1995
    Date of Patent: December 17, 1996
    Assignee: Devon Industries, Inc.
    Inventors: Ina Sillaway, Glena McComb
  • Patent number: 5549121
    Abstract: An arm support for supporting a patient's arm(s) during surgical and medical procedures such as angioplasty has an elongated rectangular strip of flexible fabric long enough to pass laterally beneath the supine body of such a patient, with lateral strips of mating fastening means such as VELCRO.RTM. adjacent each end of the strip's upper surface when in use, and two sets of at least two longitudinal strips of mating fastening means positioned on either side of the upper surface of a central portion where the patient's torso is to be positioned, which mate with the latter strips when each end of the fabric strip is looped about the patient's arm(s) for support.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 25, 1995
    Date of Patent: August 27, 1996
    Inventor: Vincent A. Vinci
  • Patent number: 5545191
    Abstract: A transcutaneous coupling device having an implanted unit and an external unit uses VELCRO for attaching the external unit to the skin in a proper location for optimal electromagnetic coupling between the units. The VELCRO has two surfaces, which adhere to one another, one surface being affixed to the external unit, and the other surface being adhesively attached to the skin. In one embodiment, the VELCRO is a patch coextensive with the surface area of the side of the external unit. In another embodiment, where the thickness of the VELCRO interferes with the coupling, the VELCRO takes the form of a ring or set of smaller patches permitting projecting portions of the side of the external unit to directly contact the skin for better coupling.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 6, 1994
    Date of Patent: August 13, 1996
    Assignee: Alfred E. Mann Foundation for Scientific Research
    Inventors: Alfred E. Mann, Joseph H. Schulman
  • Patent number: 5540673
    Abstract: The invention is a refastenable mechanical fastening system, made of free formed prongs joined to a substrate. The prongs taper and are nonperpendicularly oriented relative to the plane of the substrate. The prongs also have an azimuthal angle relative to the machine direction of the substrate. Each prong has an engaging means projecting laterally from the periphery of the prong. The free formed prongs are manufactured by the process of depositing liquid material onto a moving substrate, stretching the liquid material in a direction parallel to the plane of the substrate, severing the stretched material to form the distal end and engaging means of the prong, and imparting an azimuthal angle to the prong. The advantageous usage of the fastening system in an article of manufacture, such as a disposable absorbent garment, specifically a diaper, is also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 31, 1995
    Date of Patent: July 30, 1996
    Assignee: The Procter & Gamble Company
    Inventors: Dennis A. Thomas, David J. K. Goulait, Robert G. Cox, Jr.
  • Patent number: 5520630
    Abstract: This invention introduces special types of pressure stockings that are easier to be used and use different techniques of bringing the edges or the body of these supports together, so that it will be easier for a patient to use them on a daily basis or for a pregnant person to put them on while tolerating the difficulties of pregnancy.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 14, 1994
    Date of Patent: May 28, 1996
    Inventor: Yousef Daneshvar
  • Patent number: 5517986
    Abstract: An adjustable headgear for use with reusable or disposable nasal and/or oral gas delivery masks. The headgear includes a cap-like headpiece adapted to fit the crown and back of a patient's head. Lower strap means provide a two-point connection with the gas delivery mask to achieve a comfortable fit and an effective seal. Depending strap means depending from the head piece are connected to and moveable relative to the lower strap means. The depending strap means offer a stabilizing connection between the head piece and the lower strap means. Upper strap means can be used in the event an effective seal cannot be achieved using only the lower strap means. The upper and lower strap means provide a four-point connection with the gas delivery mask.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 28, 1993
    Date of Patent: May 21, 1996
    Assignee: Respironics, Inc.
    Inventors: Eric W. Starr, Mary T. Walthour
  • Patent number: 5492133
    Abstract: An improved ankle support system including first and second support side walls and attaching straps which have an elongated hook portion pivotally attached to the side wall support and which has an elongated loop portion integrally formed with the hook portion and having a width wider than the loop portion such that when the strap is wrapped around the leg, the loop portion entirely covers the hook portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 4, 1993
    Date of Patent: February 20, 1996
    Assignee: Aircast, Inc.
    Inventor: Henry J. McVicker
  • Patent number: 5485837
    Abstract: There is provided a strap used to combine a tracheotomy tube and moist air mask into a unitary apparatus. The apparatus includes a single soft cushioned strap connected to a tracheotomy tube base and to a moist air mask. The moist air mask covers the tracheotomy tube base. The apparatus eliminates the need for a separate elastic band for the mask and provides comfort for the patient and is easier to use.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 23, 1993
    Date of Patent: January 23, 1996
    Inventors: Angela M. Solesbee, Irene D. Hebert
  • Patent number: 5456660
    Abstract: A wound dressing support device for holding a variety of standard gauze pads in place on top of an open wound and for providing for painless access to the wound. The wound dressing support device consists of an elongated elastic unidirectional wrap which includes a window opening therethrough. The unidirectional wrap is adaptable for conforming to various parts of the anatomy of a patient and includes releasable loop and hook fasteners for securing the wrap around the trunk, head, limb, hand and other parts of the anatomy. The window opening may be of different widths, lengths and geometric shapes for application to different sizes and types of wounds. The window opening is accessed above and on top of one or more gauze pads placed on the wound bed. The wound dressing support device includes loops and hooks around the perimeter of the window opening for releasable engagement of a portion of the sides of the gauze pad.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 15, 1993
    Date of Patent: October 10, 1995
    Inventors: Marshall P. Reich, Barry F. Shesol
  • Patent number: 5448985
    Abstract: An endotracheal tube holding device for securing the position of an endotracheal tube. The tube holding device (10) includes first and second tube engaging apparatus (14, 16), each of which includes a foundation strap (24) having an outer bonding surface (30) proximate its distal end portion (26). Each of the tube engaging apparatus (14, 16) also includes a tube engaging strap (36) for releasably engaging and securing the position of the endotracheal tube (12). The tube engaging straps (36) each define a proximal end (38) secured to the operatively associated foundation strap (24) and an inner surface (42) coated with an adhesive for releasably engaging the outer bonding surface (30) of the operatively associated foundation strap (24).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 25, 1994
    Date of Patent: September 12, 1995
    Inventor: Timothy N. Byrd
  • Patent number: 5439456
    Abstract: A system for fastening a body fluid container to a human leg. The device is a band of appropriate shape and length which encircles the human leg. Each end of the band has fasteners, possibly hook and loop fasteners, which coact with each other so that when the ends are fastened, the invention is frictionally supported on the user's thigh. The body fluid container is then attached to the band by the user, by means of fasteners which are also possibly hook and loop fasteners.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 14, 1993
    Date of Patent: August 8, 1995
    Inventor: Albert Fabricant
  • Patent number: 5421811
    Abstract: An improved wrist brace is described wherein the improvement comprises the brace being formed generally from one piece of fabric having uniform elasticity, the fabric being folded and sewn in such a manner to provide tension in the carpal ligament area which is greater than the tension over other areas and provides an angled compression tube of 32.degree.. An alternative embodiment illustrates an orthopedic support apparatus constructed of two way stretch fabric having a ravel-free severed end portion joined flatly to and abutting another portion of the fabric and stitched thereto. The process of the invention describes an improved method of manufacturing orthopedic supports.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 23, 1994
    Date of Patent: June 6, 1995
    Assignee: K.T. Medical, Inc.
    Inventors: Marcos A. More, Paul B. Gamm
  • Patent number: 5395307
    Abstract: The invention relates to an elastic bandage for medical use. A base part of the bandage is made of pure cotton cloth or other fabric with a cloth cover on a transverse side in which a drainage aperture is defined. On opposite transverse sides of the base part there are respectively provided two outlying parts of the bandage with a drainage aperture in each of them. On opposite transverse sides of the base part there are respectively two safety bands and two suspenders on a longitudinal side of base part. The safety bands and the outlying parts are fastened together with fasteners.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 8, 1994
    Date of Patent: March 7, 1995
    Inventor: Lidi Fan
  • Patent number: 5395306
    Abstract: A one-part bandage for the clavicle, with a back strap extending crosswise over the back, to which shoulder straps are connected which cross under the armpits and extend over a clavicle. The straps cross in the region of the middle of the back strap at the crossing place, and run out over the hips to the abdomen into connecting end parts, whereby the end parts are joined together by means of an adhesive seal. This configuration is made of non-elastic strap material. The shoulder straps are applied at places that are distanced from one another on the back strap on its side turned away from the back, whereby support places are each formed by an adhesive seal, whose adhesive part is introduced on the back strap and whose coating part completely covering the respective adhesive part is formed by the respective shoulder strap.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 30, 1993
    Date of Patent: March 7, 1995
    Assignee: Bauerfeind & Co.
    Inventors: Hans B. Bauerfeind, Rainer Scheuermann
  • Patent number: 5360019
    Abstract: An adjustable limb holder apparatus for use in securing a patient's limb to a fixed object, to, in turn, substantially restrain movement of the limb. A cuff member, having a top surface and a bottom surface, is positioned about the limb of the patient, and preliminarily secured in position by cooperating cuff retention members operably attached to a portion of the top and bottom surfaces of the cuff member. A strap provides operable secured cooperation between the cuff member and the fixed object, and is attached to a substantially central region of the top surface of the cuff member. Attachment of the strap to the substantially central region serves to preclude the inadvertent, potentially painful and injurious, constriction of the strap about the limb--wherein such constriction would otherwise be caused as the result of the strap inadvertently tightening about the limb during movement of the substantially restrained limb in a direction away from the fixed object.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 16, 1992
    Date of Patent: November 1, 1994
    Inventors: Steven M. Witzel, Marshall Witzel
  • Patent number: 5341802
    Abstract: A releasable endotracheal tube stabilizing device having a retaining unit for adjustably securing the endotracheal tube, an adhesive head assembly of medical grade foam tape with slits in a centrally located integral attachment member for receiving and positioning the retaining unit, two D-shaped rings which are secured to lateral ends of the head assembly, and a stretchable neckband detachably connected to the D-rings that encircles the patient's neck for stabilization. The retaining unit is operative to secure or release the endotracheal tube while the neckband and head assembly remains in place. The neckband includes hook and loop surfaces to permit removal of a cervical collar and re-assembly of the stabilization device without dislodging the endotracheal tube.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 11, 1993
    Date of Patent: August 30, 1994
    Inventor: John D. Calebaugh
  • Patent number: 5337760
    Abstract: A head support assembly for immobilizing the head of a supine patient during brain tomography includes a mounting panel including mounting straps for securing the assembly to the patient support table of an imaging apparatus. A head frame assembly extends from one end of the panel and includes a pair of head frame elements having upstanding leg portions and horizontal head clamping portions. An adjustment screw connects the free ends of the head frame elements to permit the clamping of a patient's head therebetween. A head sling is suspended between the head clamping portions, being adjustably attached thereto by means of hook and loop fasteners. Forehead and chin restraining straps are also adjustably secured by means of hook and loop fasteners to the head frame elements. An optional neck support strap may also be attached to the head frame elements by means of hook and loop fasteners.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 25, 1992
    Date of Patent: August 16, 1994
    Inventor: Thomas K. Nichols
  • Patent number: 5334186
    Abstract: A medical implement and tubing organizer that allows medical implements to be held in a convenient location proximate to a patient and also allows the medical tubes to be organized and ordered according to size. The tubes are held in generally cylindrical lateral bores in the tubing holder. The holder is in detachable engagement with a substantially flat base portion. The base portion has a plurality of apertures adapted to receive and hold medical implements. The flat base portion also has a strap or the like to engage the rail or horizontal strut of a hospital bed. Thus, the entire unit is held in a fixed relationship with the patient for the convenience of the caregiver and the tube holding portion can be removed from the base, if desired, to facilitate turning or relocating the patient.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 9, 1992
    Date of Patent: August 2, 1994
    Inventor: Stephen M. Alexander
  • Patent number: 5300001
    Abstract: A dumbbell structure arranged for compacted configuration for ease of storage and transport is provided, wherein each dumbbell of the dumbbell apparatus includes respective first and second cylindrical housings having accordion pleated flexible side walls interconnected by an intermediate tubular housing, wherein each dumbbell is arranged for expansion for filling with dense material such as sand or fluid in use through a fill conduit in the first cylindrical housing of each dumbbell. The structure is arranged to further include a support web having a resilient central core to afford rigidity to the tubular housing when mounted thereabout.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 3, 1993
    Date of Patent: April 5, 1994
    Inventor: Anthony J. Sealy
  • Patent number: 5291903
    Abstract: An arm support cover including a sheath having an impermeable inner layer and an absorbent outer layer. The sheath is elongated and has an opening at a selected end thereof for insertion therethrough of a surgical arm support commonly used to support and secure a patient's arm during surgery so that intravascular and intramuscular hypodermics inserted within the patient's arm will not be inadvertently disturbed during the operation. Two pair of straps each including a first strap having a hooked portion and a second strap having a looped portion, are connected to the underside of the sheath. In operation, the first and second straps are wrapped in opposite direction around the sheath, support arm and patient's arm with the hook and loop portions being engaged to connect the strap and secure the patient's arm. An alternate embodiment includes a pair of straps each having a hooked portion and looped portion of hook-and-loop connector on opposite sides thereof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 22, 1993
    Date of Patent: March 8, 1994
    Assignee: Production Products, Inc.
    Inventor: Thomas C. Reeves
  • Patent number: 5267987
    Abstract: A system for fastening a body fluid container to a human leg. The device is a band of appropriate shape and length which encircles the human leg. Each end of the band has fasteners, possibly hook and loop fasteners, which coact with each other so that when the ends are fastened, the invention is frictionally supported on the user's thigh. The body fluid container is then attached to the band by the user, by means of fasteners which are also possibly hook and loop fasteners.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 19, 1992
    Date of Patent: December 7, 1993
    Inventor: Albert Fabricant
  • Patent number: 5251646
    Abstract: A disposable protective covering, structured to completely contain a cuff of sphygmomanometer, the covering including a flexible material sleeve having a front and rear panel which are attached to one another along a top edge and opposite side edges so as to define a pouch wherein the cuff is to be contained. A flap portion formed in the rear panel is adapted to be tucked into the pouch to fully enclose and contain the cuff, the flap portion including an access opening formed there so that hoses attached to the cuff may protrude from the sleeve while the cuff is protectively contained therein, the sleeve being structured for fastening about a user's arm, much like the cuff itself is ordinarily fastened.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 29, 1992
    Date of Patent: October 12, 1993
    Inventor: Thomas Bowen
  • Patent number: 5243991
    Abstract: A flexible blood pressure cuff for use in measuring the blood pressure of a patient, includes an inflatable bladder having a first side and a second side. One of the bladder sides is provided with hook and loop fasteners for adjustably and removably retaining at least a portion of one of the two bladder sides against a remaining portion of the one bladder side when the bladder is folded over itself. The effective inflatable width of the bladder is thereby adjusted to accommodate the circumference of the limb of the patient so that accurate blood pressure measurements may be obtained for each patient. According to the method, the blood pressure cuff is folded over itself to produce a cuff having an effective inflatable width which is adjusted according to the circumference of the limb of the patient whose blood pressure is to be measured.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 6, 1991
    Date of Patent: September 14, 1993
    Inventor: Lloyd A. Marks
  • Patent number: 5214874
    Abstract: A holder for temporarily fastening an article to a fishing rod or the like including a plurality of strap-like pliable members which are fastened together by one or more elastic elements. The holders are adapted to be wrapped around the foregrip of a fishing rod and held in place by a plurality of hooks and loops. A second strap-like member or talon and elastic element are adapted to releasably hold the article in place.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 3, 1992
    Date of Patent: June 1, 1993
    Inventor: Robert L. Faulkner
  • Patent number: 5188101
    Abstract: A premature baby elastic strip-like headband having expansion limiting structure with opposite ends of which one end has male hook-like multiple alternate attaching elements and of which a remaining opposite end has female loop-like attaching elements detachably securable to one-another at optionally alternate locations thereof, and having nasal cannulas oxygen tubes-securing structures positioned and mounted on the headband such that the nasal cannulas oxygen tubes are located on opposite side of a baby's head the headband is mounted thereof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 15, 1991
    Date of Patent: February 23, 1993
    Inventor: Jean S. Tumolo
  • Patent number: 5171253
    Abstract: Hemostatic clips and surgical strips made of deformable and preferably absorbable material have opposite elongate portions readily locked or secured together when clamped over a vessel or other bodily part. The elongate portions have opposite facing surfaces provided with a plurality of flexible members comprised of Velcro-like or similar entangling configurations, which become entangled when the surfaces are pressed together over the vessel or other bodily part. Other configurations include one or more strips of deformable material having surfaces provided with flexible members capable of entanglement to form clips or bands useful in a variety of different surgical procedures.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 22, 1991
    Date of Patent: December 15, 1992
    Inventor: Charles H. Klieman
  • Patent number: 5163914
    Abstract: A respirator hose support pad for tracheostomy patients, and method of use thereof for providing strain relief, and for reducing respirator machine induced intermittent hose movement, vibration, and fluid passage from the respirator hose into the patient. The support pad has a hook and loop fastener structure on the central bottom surface for releasible attachment to a patient's garment in the upper central chest area. The terminal oppositely disposed ends of the pad each have an extending flange which serve as handles. The pad additionally has a detachable flexible belt on the top surface for adjustable loose securement of the respirator hose onto the top of the pad. When the belt is properly affixed over a respirator hose, the hose is loosely retained between the pad and belt, and may slide back and forth across the pad to prevent excessive pulling on the tracheostomy tube as the patient moves.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 24, 1991
    Date of Patent: November 17, 1992
    Inventor: Elaine R. Abel
  • Patent number: 5152740
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a hand splint which is formed of a bladder adapted to fit in the palm of a patient's hand between the thumb and fingers and two pairs of straps for securing the splint to the hand. The bladder is selectively inflatable and deflatable to fit the need of the patient.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 11, 1990
    Date of Patent: October 6, 1992
    Assignee: Smith & Nephew Rolyan, Inc.
    Inventors: Patricia M. Harkensee, Janet M. Dobbs
  • Patent number: 5146932
    Abstract: A bladder-less counterpressure garment primarily used in the treatment of a victim suffering from hypovolemic shock. The garment is made of a resilient material, like elastic, with a means for stretching the material to or near its stretch limit. This stretching supplies the requisite counterpressure to increase blood circulation to the vital organs.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 1, 1990
    Date of Patent: September 15, 1992
    Inventor: Francis J. McCabe
  • Patent number: 5120300
    Abstract: A compression band including male and female connectors and a length of compression band integrally connected to one of the connectors so that the compression band can be quickly and easily applied and removed by preassembling the male and female connectors so that the preassembled compression band can be encompassed about a body, limb or object and fastened in place by adhering inner fastening surfaces of the preassembled connectors to the outer fastening surface of the compression band. The desired tension can then be applied by separating free ends of the connectors, tensioning the band and reapplying the free ends against the outer fastening surface of the band.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 16, 1990
    Date of Patent: June 9, 1992
    Inventor: Frank D. Shaw
  • Patent number: 5100400
    Abstract: A hook fastener portion for use in a hook and loop fastener that has a woven backing with portions of pile monofilaments projecting from its front surface providing hooks adapted for making releasable engagement with loops of the fastener. Only a layer of thermoplastic material along a rear surface of the backing and the mechanical engagement of the portions of the pile monofilaments woven into the backing anchor the monofilaments in the backing, and that layer of thermoplastic material can be a hot melt adhesive used to adhere the hook fastener portion to a substrate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 17, 1989
    Date of Patent: March 31, 1992
    Assignee: Minnesota Mining and Manufacturing Company
    Inventors: Kirit C. Mody, Bernard D. Campbell
  • Patent number: 5095894
    Abstract: An improved orthopedic upper extremity stabilizing device (20) applied as a positioning aid for supporting, restraining and/or immobilizing the limbs or joints of a human's upper extremity by means of a lightweight, formable, enveloping torso-covering device (22) with extremity stabilizing devices (26) that restrict movement during pre-hospital emergency care and transport, definitive care, medical procedures, and/or the recuperation and natural healing periods. The torso-covering device (22) and extremity stabilizing devices (26) are each of single assemblage comprised of one-quarter inch thick open-cell foam flame laminated to engageable-loop material. The torso-covering device is closed with detachable engageable-hook closure straps (24). The extremity stabilizing devices (26) are applied to the torso-covering device by engageable-hook tape strips that are attached to the longitudinal edges of one planter surface of each device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 14, 1990
    Date of Patent: March 17, 1992
    Assignee: Level-One Products, Inc.
    Inventor: Alan F. Marble
  • Patent number: 5084026
    Abstract: An anchor pad which has straps associated therewith for securing the pad to the arm, leg or the like of a patient. Attached to the top face of the pad are two latch arrangements for adjustable holding the tubing and needle sections of an intravenous apparatus in place. In one version of the invention, the pad's under face has adhesive applied thereto.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 14, 1989
    Date of Patent: January 28, 1992
    Inventor: Robert A. Shapiro
  • Patent number: 5082111
    Abstract: A disposable surgical instrument holder for holding a number of surgical instruments, tubes and wires includes a narrow, elongate base member that can be attached adhesively to a patient's body or drape. A plurality of flaps are releasably attached to the base member by way of hinges and hook and loop fasteners. Each flap can be pulled back from the base member and then can be resecured once an instrument has been inserted between the flap and the base member. The holder can be provided with a sheet of abrasive material in order to permit surgical instruments to be cleaned during the course of an operation. The holders can be stored within sterile packages for use whenever convenient to the surgeon.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 12, 1991
    Date of Patent: January 21, 1992
    Assignee: Surgical Concepts, Inc.
    Inventors: John D. Corbitt, Jr., Kenneth M. Kuzmick, Stephanie L. O'Hearn, Albert N. Santilli
  • Patent number: 5076288
    Abstract: A double-lock friction fastener system useful as a restraint for hospital patients includes separate flexible first and second straps affixed to one another at a juncture and extending adjacent one another in the same general direction so that cooperating friction fasteners on free end portions of the straps can be frictionally secured to form a loop of infinitely adjustable size for attachment to an extremity of a patient to be restrained. A locking strap affixed to one strap is folded over the outer face of the other strap, and cooperating friction fasteners on the inside face of the locking strap and on the outer face of the other strap are frictionally secured so the folded-over locking strap covers the free end of the other strap and forms a double-lock friction fastener which resists pulling apart of the friction fasteners which form the loop.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 9, 1990
    Date of Patent: December 31, 1991
    Assignee: J. T. Posey Company
    Inventors: John Millard, John T. Posey
  • Patent number: 5076289
    Abstract: A device for securing and restraining an intravenous line while the line is inserted into the arm of a patient including a fabric wrap anchorable by the patient's thumb and circumscribable about the patient's hand for detachable attachment to itself while sandwiching a loop of the intravenous line therebetween. A slit is provided to pass the intravenous loop through the wrap for engagement by the thumb.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 28, 1990
    Date of Patent: December 31, 1991
    Inventor: Harold E. Darling
  • Patent number: 5069457
    Abstract: There is disclosed a golf instruction aid which is readily adjustable to permit the stiffening support of the leading arm to be released between strokes for the greater convenience and comfort of the golfer. The device is comprised of a flexible sleeve; a tensioning strip attached to and depending from the sleeve, the width of the strip being substantially the same as the length of the sleeve, the strip having a first side, a second side and an end remote from the sleeve; a first fastener disposed on the first side of the strip at the remote end; and a second fastener disposed at a point on the second side of the strip, whereby the strip may be wrapped around the sleeve and maintained in tension by securing the first fastener to the second fastener.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 22, 1988
    Date of Patent: December 3, 1991
    Inventor: Walter Korzenowski
  • Patent number: 5058592
    Abstract: An adjustable, mountable Doppler ultrasound transducer device is provided. The device comprises a ring segment for placement on a patient, and a transducer segment that is movably mounted on the ring segment and is provided with electrical leads for connecting the transducer segment to a Doppler instrument. In order to be able to adjust the position of the transducer segment relative to the ring segment, and hence to the body of a patient, the ring segment and the transducer segment have cooperating fasteners, for example in the form of a Velcro fastener.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 2, 1990
    Date of Patent: October 22, 1991
    Inventor: G. Douglas Whisler