Abstract: The present disclosure concerns embodiments of an operating support that supports a surgeon in a sitting position straddling a patient. By straddling the patient, the surgeon is ideally positioned to perform certain types of laparoscopic surgery, such as pelvic surgery, which requires the use of relatively long surgical instruments. The operating support supports the surgeon in a more ergonomically correct position that reduces the stress and strain on the surgeon's body as compared to the conventional technique of performing laparoscopic surgery in a standing position at one side of the operating table.

Abstract: A patient support apparatus comprises a lower frame, a lift mechanism, a drive mechanism, and an upper frame. The lower frame includes a lift drive configured to at least one of expand and contract the lift mechanism. The lift mechanism is pivotably coupled with the lower frame to rotate about a rotational axis. A drive mechanism is coupled between the lift mechanism and the lower frame. The drive mechanism is configured to rotate the lift mechanism about the rotational axis. The upper frame is supported on the lift mechanism and responsive to the rotation of the lift mechanism to rotate a patient about the rotational axis.

Abstract: The invention relates to an operating table having a support column and a table panel mounted on the support column. In order to facilitate improve monitoring of a patient on the table panel, the operating table has a force measurement system for determining the weight of the table panel and of the patient on the table panel.

Abstract: A variable motion rocking bed is provided that includes a first support structure having a first set of pins, a second support structure having a second set of pins, and a frame, the frame capable of being in a rocking motion with respect to the first support structure and the second support structure. The rocking bed further includes a first pair of linkage assemblies secured between the first support structure and the frame, a second pair of linkage assemblies secured between the second support structure and the frame and at least one adjusting mechanism coupled to each of the first pair of linkage assemblies and to each of the second pair of linkage assemblies.

Abstract: Disclosed is a device that attaches to a standard bed and prevents or treats bedsores by using electro-mechanical means to rotate a person from side to side in a bed without human assistance. In one embodiment, a controller that is attached to at least one linear actuator and at least one electric motor is used to rotate a person in bed at regular intervals without human assistance and without disturbing any medical equipment to which the person may be attached.

Abstract: The patient support with a head end and a foot end comprises a lying surface supported by a frame system. It also comprises a pair of head end siderails, a pair of foot end siderails, a headboard, a footboard, a power system and a communication system.

Abstract: In various embodiments, a therapeutic bed is provided which comprises a base frame, a patient support frame having a support for supporting a patient in a prone position, said patient support frame being rotationally mounted on the base frame, such that the patient support frame is capable of rotating with respect to the base frame for repositioning said patient between a supine position and a prone position. In various embodiments, the therapeutic bed includes a control member having an engaged, disengaged, and neutral position. In such embodiments, each of the engaged disengaged, and neutral position controls at least one of an electrical rotation of the bed and a mechanical rotation of the bed.

Abstract: A patient support is disclosed, including a deck comprising openings that accommodate removable modules.

Abstract: A bed elevating apparatus is provided which includes a mechanism for elevating a longitudinal side of a bed while the other side remains in place and acts as a pivot. The act of alternating the side of the bed that is raised shifts the pressure between the person and the bed and thus helps to reduce or prevent bedsores. The bed elevating apparatus can be used with preexisting hospital or nursing home beds. The apparatus is placed between the bed frame and the lower legs portion of the bed such that the legs of the bed remain on the floor and only the bed frame is longitudinally raised.

Abstract: An adjustable bed comprises a stationary bed frame and a movable bed frame. A portion of the stationary bed frame is coupled to a portion of a plurality of actuator devices and a portion of the movable bed frame is coupled to a portion of the actuator devices. A power supply coupled to the actuator devices activates the actuator devices. At least one of the actuator devices comprises a safety switch to prevent unauthorized use of the actuator devices, and a toggle switch to elevate and lower at least one actuator of the actuator devices. A caregiver unlocks the safety switch, activates the actuator devices and guides a person transversely from one side of a mattress located on the movable bed frame to a second side of the mattress thereby permitting access to a portion of the person that was previously inaccessible.

Abstract: An operating table has first bed platforms, each which can rotate. In an operating configuration, the patient lies on one of the bed platforms in a prone or supine position with the bed platform centered over the base. When the patient needs to be turned, the other table extends outwardly, and both tables are rotated to position the patient for turning. Once the patient is turned, the table on which the patient lies is returned to its operating position over the base and the other table is returned to its storage position.

Abstract: A modular, multi-articulated patient support system includes independently adjustable columns connected by an adjustable base and supporting a patient support structure. Each column includes rotation, angulation, separation and lateral travel structure. The patient support may be raised, lowered and rotated about a transversely shiftable longitudinal axis in either horizontal or tilted orientation. The patient support includes a body support rotatably coupled with right and left leg supports disengageable at the outboard ends, that can be tilted, rotated and locked in place. An intermediate brace engages the base when the outboard ends of the leg supports are disengaged. The patient support structure may include two pairs of patient supports, each attached at the outboard end of a column and having a free inboard end. A coordinated drive system raises, lowers, tilts, rotates and laterally shifts the patient supports, which may be positioned in overlapping relation.

Abstract: A patient support system particularly suited for pediatric twin separation surgery. The patient support system includes a frame coupled to a swing circle that has a plurality of holes about the perimeter. A patient support structure is coupled to the swing circle, and disposed in a fixed relationship to the frame after rotation of the swing circle relative to the frame. A chain-and-sprocket mechanism is coupled to the frame and swing circle and positioned within the frame. At least one support leg depends from the frame, and may extend or retract relative to the frame. A drape cage is coupled to the frame for supporting a surgical drape thereon. At least one support wheel is connected to the support leg, and adapted to be interchangeably fixed in a static position and rotatable to move the frame. A substantially identical second frame may be connected in series to the frame for operative procedures.

Abstract: A therapeutic hospital bed including a base supporting a rotatable carriage. A patient support surface is supported by the rotatable carriage.

Abstract: A sick-bed includes a bedstead and a bed frame with an adjustable mattress support. The bed frame can be mounted cardanically on the bedstead for the decubitus prophylaxis and can be precessed by means of a drive unit. The bed frame is cardanically suspended on at least three, preferably four lifting drives, which are separate from each other and continuously height-adjustable. The lifting drives are controllable in such a manner that the central normal of the bed frame running through the center of gravity for the bed frame is allowed to carry out a continuous, damped and slow precession movement. Universal joints connecting the lifting drives to the bed frame can allow limited sliding movement therebetween in longitudinal and/or transverse directions.

Abstract: A variable motion rocking bed is provided that includes a first support structure including a first threaded rod having a first section threaded in a first direction and a second section threaded in a second direction, a second support structure including a second threaded rod having a first section threaded in a first direction and a second section threaded in a second direction, and a frame, the frame capable of being in a rocking motion with respect to the first support structure and the second support structure. The rocking bed further includes a first pair of linkage assemblies secured between the first support structure and the frame, and a second pair of linkage assemblies secured between the second support structure and the frame.

Abstract: A rocking assembly for a bed has a mattress frame, a base frame and a rocking driver. The base frame supports the mattress frame. The rocking driver is mounted on the base frame and has a motor, a flywheel and a connecting rod. The flywheel is rotated by the motor. The connecting rod is connected eccentrically to the flywheel and pivotally to the mattress frame. When the motor turns, the connecting rod rocks the mattress frame so a person lying on the bed rocks from side to side and pressure on individual parts of the person's body is alleviated so blood can circulate to the areas and bedsores will not develop.

Abstract: In various embodiments of the present disclosure, a patient support therapeutic bed comprising a base frame and a patient support platform rotatable relative to the base frame is illustrated and described. The patient support platform is also rotatable between a supine position and a prone position. The therapeutic bed includes a head support positionable relative to the patient support platform to support the head of a patient supported by said patient support platform. The head support includes a head restraint independently positionable relative to the patient support platform for engaging a front surface of the head. The head restraint is movable in a direction generally perpendicular to the body of the patient.

Abstract: A patient transfer system for transferring a patient to an operating table in a prone position from a supine position, and vice versa. The patient transfer system includes a chassis, a platen, and restraint/support system. The chassis has wheels secured thereto for movement of the chassis across a floor. The platen is coupled to the chassis and is rotatable about an axis. The platen is adapted to receive a patient in a supine position and rotate the patient to a prone position, and vice versa. The restraint/support system is adapted to hold the patient stationary on the platen while the patient is rotated from the supine position to the prone position, and vice versa. The restraint/support system also provides support to the head, torso, and legs of the patient when the patient is deposited on the operating table in a prone position.

Abstract: A table control method for controlling a tabletop driven out of a base in the horizontal direction, wherein deflection of a tip of the tabletop due to load is compensated by tilting the tabletop to lift the tip.

Abstract: An MPU sends pieces of information supplied by the input signals from a hand switch to a semiconductor memory device and the memory device stores these pieces of information. These pieces of information are: input points of an operation start signal and an operation end signal to a bottom drive unit; input points of a drive start signal of each bottom and a drive end signal of each bottom or a bottom drive time, information on lift-up or lift-down of each bottom; input points of a drive start signal and a drive end signal to a frame drive unit, information on lift-up or lift-down of a frame; and the type of an operated button of a hand switch. The data about bottoms is stored for both the back bottom and knee bottom.

Abstract: A modular, multi-articulated patient support system includes independently adjustable columns connected by an adjustable base and supporting a patient support structure. Each column includes rotation, angulation and separation adjustment structure. The patient support may be raised, lowered and rotated about a longitudinal axis in either horizontal or tilted orientation. The patient support includes a body support rotatably coupled with right and left leg supports disengageable at the outboard ends, that can be tilted, rotated and locked in place. An intermediate brace engages the base when the outboard ends of the leg supports are disengaged. The patient support structure may include two pairs of patient supports, each attached at the outboard end of a column and having a free inboard end. A coordinated drive system raises, lowers, tilts and rotates the patient supports, which may be positioned in overlapping relation.

Abstract: A bed (10) includes a base (12) and a frame assembly (14). A head end support assembly (16) and a foot end support assembly (18) are coupled between the base (12) and the frame assembly (14). The frame assembly (14) includes first and second side frame members (80, 82) located above the base (12). The bed (10) also includes a plurality of latch mechanisms (160) coupled to the first and second side frame members (80, 82), and a patient support surface (162) configured to be coupled to the first and second side frame members (80, 82) by the plurality of latch mechanisms (160). A rotational drive mechanism (130) is coupled to the foot end support assembly (18) to rotate the frame assembly (14) about its longitudinal axis to a prone position. A proning surface (250) is coupled to the frame assembly (14) to support a patient in the prone position.

Abstract: A medical procedure table includes a base plate, a base column extending upwards from the base, a shuttle assembly telescopingly mounted to the base column, a carriage pivotably mounted to the shuttle assembly, and a main plate pivotably mounted to the carriage. A roll actuator subsystem includes a roll actuator mounted to the carriage and a piston pivotably connected to an arm, the arm pivotably connected to the main plate, and a linkage pivotably connected between the piston and the carriage.

Abstract: Certain embodiments include a system and method for braking in a patient positioning system. The system includes a patient positioning surface for supporting a patient, a first brake for affecting motion of the patient positioning surface, and a second brake for affecting motion of the patient positioning surface. In an embodiment, the first brake is a power-off brake that is active when power is removed from the brake. The second brake is a power-on brake that is active when power is applied to the brake. Power may be applied and/or removed from the first and second brakes o affect the motion of the patient positioning surface.

Abstract: There is described method and apparatus for supporting a patient's body in a MR scanner, including supporting it to rotate about its longitudinal axis and cant about a point on the longitudinal axis. Also provided are method and apparatus for supporting a patient's head and neck and using a surgical head-holder. Yet another embodiment of the invention provides method and apparatus for attaching first and second stirrups to a member supporting the patient.

Abstract: A direct electrical signal and power interface is provided to the patient support platform of a therapeutic bed that allows for a complete rotation of the patient support platform in either direction. In one embodiment, an electrical signal and/or power cable is housed within a chain-like cable carrier that is disposed within an annular channel attached to the patient support platform. In another embodiment, a flexible ribbon cable is disposed within the annular channel. The cable carrier or ribbon cable is long enough to allow a full 360 degrees of rotation of the patient support platform in either direction from 0 degrees supine flat while maintaining a direct electrical signal or power connection. To ensure that the electrical signal and power connection is not articulated beyond its physical limit as a result of manually rotating the bed in the emergency backup mode, a mechanical stop is provided to limit rotation of the patient support platform to about 730 degrees.

Abstract: A surgical table includes a patient support deck includes a central section and at least one side section movably coupled to the central section. The at least one side section is movable between a first position substantially coplanar with the central section and a second position extending upwardly relative to the central section to inhibit lateral movement of a patient lying on the patient support deck.

Abstract: A surgical table which includes a patient support surface 16 for receiving a patient, a vertically-movable support column connected to and supporting the patient support surface, and a pair of four-bar linkages for laterally tilting patient support surface relative to the support column. The support column includes a base that is mounted for vertical movement between a first position in which the surgical table is movable on rollers and a second position wherein the base contacts the floor to lock the position of the surgical table during a procedure. One or more trays may be pivotally connected to the patient support surface and selectively deployed to hold objects such as surgical instruments.

Abstract: A therapeutic bed (1) comprises a patient support platform (7) rotatably mounted on a base frame (4) for rotation about a longitudinal pivot axis between a supine support position and a prone support position. The base frame (4) is in turn mounted on a wheeled chassis (2) by pivot linkages (5) which allow tilting and raising and lowering of the base frame (4) on the chassis (2). Drive interlocks prevent rotation of the patient support platform (7) unless side rails (25) are locked on the patient support platform (7) and patient support flaps (40, 41) extending between the side rails (25) are locked together to secure a patient on the patient support platform (7). Guides (51) are provided at each end of the patient support platform (7) at the longitudinal rotational axis to guide patient care lines between a patient on the patient support platform (7) and associated devices externally of the patient support platform (7).

Abstract: A patient support includes a base, and a support assembly coupled to the base. A patient support surface is coupled to the support assembly. A plurality of siderails are coupled to the support assembly. Each siderail includes a frame member and a movable member coupled to the frame member, wherein the movable member is movable to a position directly above the patient support surface.

Abstract: A bed (10) includes a base (12) and a frame assembly (14). A head end support assembly (16) and a foot end support assembly (18) are coupled between the base (12) and the frame assembly (14). The frame assembly (14) includes first and second side frame members (80, 82) located above the base (12). The bed (10) also includes a plurality of latch mechanisms (160) coupled to the first and second side frame members (80, 82), and a patient support surface (162) configured to be coupled to the first and second side frame members (80, 82) by the plurality of latch mechanisms (160). A rotational drive mechanism (130) is coupled to the foot end support assembly (18) to rotate the frame assembly (14) about its longitudinal axis to a prone position. A proning surface (250) is coupled to the frame assembly (14) to support a patient in the prone position.

Abstract: Certain embodiments include a system and method for positioning a patient with a patient positioning system. The system includes a patient positioning surface for supporting a patient. The system also includes a lift subsystem for adjusting elevation of the patient positioning surface, a longitudinal subsystem for moving the patient positioning surface in a longitudinal direction, a lateral subsystem for moving the patient positioning surface in a lateral direction, a tilt subsystem for tilting the patient positioning surface, and a rotation subsystem for rotating the patient positioning surface. The system further includes a control subsystem for controlling operation of the patient positioning system and a base affixed to a floor for securing the patient positioning system. The control subsystem may perform iso-center tracking to maintain a region of interest of the patient in an image area during tilt. The control subsystem may also avoid collision with the ground and/or predetermined objects.

Abstract: An improved mounting apparatus for a lateral rotation therapeutic bed is provided that facilitates access to the patient and connection and disconnection of patient care lines to and from a patient on the bed. A therapeutic bed is described comprising a base frame, a patient support platform rotatably mounted on the base frame for rotational movement about a longitudinal rotational axis of the patient support platform, and a drive system for rotating the patient support platform on the base frame. An upright end ring at the head end of the bed is split into an upper section and a lower section. The upper section is removable from the lower section, allowing improved access to the head of the patient and to allow placement or removal of the patient from the bed by removal of patient care lines from the end ring without removing the patient care lines from the patient or the equipment to which the lines are attached.

Abstract: A direct data and power interface is provided to the patient support platform of a therapeutic bed that allows for a complete rotation of the patient support platform in either direction. To ensure that the data and power interface is not articulated beyond its physical limit as a result of manually rotating the bed in the emergency backup mode, a mechanical stop is provided to limit rotation of the patient support platform to about 730 degrees. Sensors are provided to detect activation of the mechanical stop.

Abstract: A surgical table which includes a patient support surface 16 for receiving a patient, a vertically-movable support column connected to and supporting the patient support surface, and a pair of four-bar linkages for laterally tilting patient support surface relative to the support column. The support column includes a base that is mounted for vertical movement between a first position in which the surgical table is movable on rollers and a second position wherein the base contacts the floor to lock the position of the surgical table during a procedure. One or more trays may be pivotally connected to the patient support surface and selectively deployed to hold objects such as surgical instruments.

Abstract: A support device having a substantially rigid support plate, a headrest supported on the support plate, the headrest being adapted to support the user's head, and a support pad at least partially supported on the support plate, the support pad being adapted to support the user's torso. In addition, a support pad for supporting torso of a user with enhanced comfort is provided, the support pad including a center pad, two side pads, and a stomach pad where the center pad has a durometer/compliance which is stiffer than the two side pads.

Abstract: A mechanism to center a patient on a patient support platform of a therapeutic bed is provided comprising a threaded rod that has left-hand threads on one end and right-hand threads on the other; first and second mounts threadably engaged with the left-hand and right-hand threads, respectively, of the threaded rod; and first and second patient support accessories mounted to the first and second mounts, respectively. The rod, when rotated, is operable to move the first and second patient support accessories in opposite directions, either toward or away from the patient. In one embodiment, a manually operable handle is connected to the threaded rod for effecting rotation of the threaded rod to produce symmetric movement of the first and second patient support accessories. In another embodiment, a motor-driven actuator is operably connected to the threaded rod for effecting rotation of the threaded rod to produce symmetric movement of the first and second patient support accessories.

Abstract: A patient support apparatus including a first patient support configured to be rotated about a longitudinal axis. The first patient support illustratively includes an inflatable bladder. A backboard may be removably coupled to the patient support apparatus and is configured to facilitate transport of a patient to and from the patient support apparatus.

Abstract: A cot for assisting in the transfer of a body from a removable support bed of the cot to another surface. The cot includes a trolley which serves as a transporter for the removable support bed. The cot also includes a tilting device which is designed to tilt the support bed about the trolley. The support bed may be removed from the trolley to reduce the total weight carried by the attendants, and permit the removal of a body from locations which are difficult to access. When removed from the trolley, the support bed may be rolled upright with wheels that are located at one end of the support bed. The support bed is contoured in shaped to pool bodily fluids which may escape during transport. A locking device is provided on the trolley for releasably securing the support bed thereon.

Abstract: A direct data and power interface is provided to the patient support platform of a therapeutic bed that allows for a complete rotation of the patient support platform in either direction. In one embodiment, a data and/or power cable is housed within a chain-like cable carrier that is disposed within an annular channel attached to the patient support platform. In another embodiment, a flexible ribbon cable is disposed within the annular channel. The cable carrier or ribbon cable is long enough to allow a full 360 degrees of rotation of the patient support platform in either direction from 0 degrees supine flat while maintaining a direct data or power connection. To ensure that data and power connection is not articulated beyond its physical limit as a result of manually rotating the bed in the emergency backup mode, a mechanical stop is provided to limit rotation of the patient support platform to about 730 degrees. Sensors are provided to detect activation of the mechanical stop.

Abstract: A bed comprises a bed support including a body portion and a support plate configured to be removably coupled to the body portion. The body portion includes a guide configured to operably couple with the support plate in order to guide the support plate in sliding movement into the body portion.

Abstract: A prone positioning therapeutic bed comprises a base frame, a patient support platform rotatably mounted on the base frame for rotational movement about a longitudinal rotational axis, a drive system for rotating the patient support platform on the base frame, and an upright end ring at the head of the bed with a central opening for routing patient care lines and a removable upper section for improved access to a patient's head. The patient support platform preferably has pivotally mounted side rails that fold underneath the patient support platform and straps with strap connectors that indicate whether the straps are sufficiently tensioned. A direct, wired electrical connection between the patient support platform and the base frame allows full rotation of the patient support platform in either direction. A manually operable lever disengages the patient support platform from the drive system to allow manual rotation of the patient support platform.

Abstract: A bed assembly (1) for altering the position of a person supported thereon, includes a longitudinal support frame (5) having a support surface (23) for a person and a longitudinal cradle means (4) extending over the support surface. The cradle has a recess (10) extending along side portions of the cradle in the longitudinal direction. The recesses are adapted to receive and engage cradle support engaging means (7, 7a). These means are mounted to the support frame in close relation to the recess and adapted to be extendable and retractable in engaging relation within said recess so as to promote a change in configuration of the cradle. A first actuator (3) is disposed beneath the support frame and coupled to the engaging means for extending or retracting the engaging means. In a first condition the actuator causes the engaging means to extend towards and be received by the recess, causing the cradle means to move between a position of rest and a concave configuration about the central longitudinal axis.

Abstract: A patient table with a table pivot member is disclosed. A patient support surface supporting a patient during a medical procedure is supported by a base which includes telescopic members to move the patient support surface vertically. A table pivot member connects the patient support surface to the base. The table pivot member enables the patient support surface to pivot in at least one of tilt and lateral roll directions with respect to the base. An actuating element composed of at least two actuators is connected between the patient support surface and the base to drive the patient support surface in at least one of tilt or lateral roll directions.

Abstract: A bed comprises a fluid supply and a bed support coupled to the fluid supply. A patient support surface is configured to couple to the bed support.

Abstract: An improved mounting apparatus for a lateral rotation therapeutic bed is provided that facilitates access to the patient and connection and disconnection of patient care lines to and from a patient on the bed. A therapeutic bed is described comprising a base frame, a patient support platform rotatably mounted on the base frame for rotational movement about a longitudinal rotational axis of the patient support platform, and a drive system for rotating the patient support platform on the base frame. An upright end ring at the head end of the bed is split into an upper section and a lower section. The upper section is removable from the lower section, allowing improved access to the head of the patient and to allow placement or removal of the patient from the bed by removal of patient care lines from the end ring without removing the patient care lines from the patient or the equipment to which the lines are attached.

Abstract: A direct data and power interface is provided to the patient support platform of a therapeutic bed that allows for a complete rotation of the patient support platform in either direction. To ensure that the data and power interface is not articulated beyond its physical limit as a result of manually rotating the bed in the emergency backup mode, a mechanical stop is provided to limit rotation of the patient support platform to about 730 degrees. Sensors are provided to detect activation of the mechanical stop.

Abstract: A mechanism to center a patient on a patient support platform of a therapeutic bed is provided comprising a threaded rod that has left-hand threads on one end and right-hand threads on the other; first and second mounts threadably engaged with the left-hand and right-hand threads, respectively, of the threaded rod; and first and second patient support accessories mounted to the first and second mounts, respectively. The rod, when rotated, is operable to move the first and second patient support accessories in opposite directions, either toward or away from the patient. In one embodiment, a manually operable handle is connected to the threaded rod for effecting rotation of the threaded rod to produce symmetric movement of the first and second patient support accessories. In another embodiment, a motor-driven actuator is operably connected to the threaded rod for effecting rotation of the threaded rod to produce symmetric movement of the first and second patient support accessories.

Abstract: A patient support includes a base, and a support assembly coupled to the base. A patient support surface is coupled to the support assembly. A plurality of siderails are coupled to the support assembly. Each siderail includes a frame member and a movable member coupled to the frame member, wherein the movable member is movable to a position directly above the patient support surface.