Abstract: In one embodiment, an aspiration prevention system is configured to keep items from moving from a mouth of a patient into a throat of the patient. The system includes a mouth prop, a frame, and an air-permeable barrier. The mouth prop has a top surface configured to abut top teeth of the mouth, a bottom surface configured to abut bottom teeth of the mouth, and a frame coupling feature. The frame has a barrier retention feature configured to retain an air-permeable barrier, and a prop coupling feature that is attachable to the frame coupling feature of the mouth prop in a position in which the frame at least partially covers the throat.

Abstract: Devices, systems, and methods for bone stabilization, especially volar distal radius stabilization. The stabilization system may include a bone plate having an elongated portion, an enlarged head portion, and a transition region connecting the elongated portion to the enlarged head portion, and the plate including a plurality of through holes. A plurality of fasteners may be configured to extend through one or more of the plurality of through holes in the bone plate and into the bone. The plate may be used to stabilize a fracture in a long bone, such as a radius.

Abstract: A blade (20) for a laryngoscope (10) includes a proximal end (24), which is mechanically connected or connectable to a handle (16), a distal end (22), and an opening (52) near the distal end (22) of the blade (20). The opening (52) is arranged and configured in such a way that a view can be obtained, through the opening (52), from the side (28) to be directed toward a patient's palate during the intended use of the blade (20) to the side (26) to be directed toward the base of the patient's tongue during the intended use of the blade (20).

Abstract: The invention relates to a device which is inserted into the mouth so as to isolate the dental part or area of the mouth to be treated, allowing improved vision, preventing the cheek and the tongue from impinging on the working area, and protecting the tissues of the patient from the dental instruments. Furthermore, the sucking capacity of the device prevents the saliva or any other fluid generated during the treatment from affecting both vision and the performance of a correct technique for carrying out the dental treatment.

Abstract: A lateral retractor system for forming a surgical pathway to a patient's intervertebral disc space includes a single dilator and a retractable dual-tapered-blade assembly. The single dilator may feature a narrow rectangular body for insertion at an insertion orientation parallel to the fibers of the patient's psoas muscle and at an approximate 45-degree angle to the patient's spine. The retractable dual-tapered-blade assembly consists of only two blade subassemblies, each having a blade bordered by adjustable wings, along with built-in lighting and video capabilities. The dual-tapered-blade assembly may be passed over the single dilator at the insertion orientation and rotated approximately 45-50 degrees from the insertion orientation to a final rotated orientation parallel to the intervertebral disc space before the two blade subassemblies are retracted away from one another to create the surgical pathway. Other embodiments are also disclosed.

Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention address the deficiencies of the art in respect to oral cavity medical assessment and provide a method, system and apparatus for mouth disease diagnosis and treatment. In an embodiment of the invention, an apparatus for scanning an oral cavity can include a mouth guard spreader that has a partially transparent receiving member that defines a receiving cavity, a first spreader portion and a second spreader portion coupled to the partially transparent receiving member. The apparatus further can include an image capture device for capturing images of the oral cavity disposed within the partially transparent receiving member of the mouth guard spreader. The apparatus yet further can include a storage device coupled to the image capture device for storing each captured image of the oral cavity.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for closing a vascular wound includes an apparatus that can be threaded over a guidewire into place at or adjacent the wound. The apparatus includes a chamber that encloses a hemostatic material therein. When the apparatus is positioned adjacent the wound as desired, the hemostatic material is deployed from the chamber. A blocking member distal of the hemostatic material functions as a barrier to prevent the hemostatic material from entering the wound. Blood contacts the hemostatic material, and blood clotting preferably is facilitated by a hemostatic agent within the material. Thus, the vascular puncture wound is sealed by blood clot formation.

Abstract: The collapsible laryngoscope includes a substantially U-shaped frame having an open proximal end and a closed distal end, the proximal and distal ends being raised with respect to a central portion thereof to form a substantially saddle-shaped frame. A bite block is secured to the proximal end of the frame, fixing the proximal end. A distal end of a flexible rib is secured to the distal end of the frame, the proximal end of the flexible rib being positioned adjacent the bite block. An elastomeric sheath is secured to and covers the substantially U-shaped frame and the upper surface of the central portion of the flexible rib. A strap or the like is secured to the proximal end of the flexible rib for lifting the central portion of the flexible rib with respect to the substantially U-shaped frame. The flexible rib is then selectively locked in this deployed, lifted position.

Abstract: Some embodiments includes an apparatus for retracting an animal tongue that includes a handle that is elongate and that includes a proximal portion and a distal portion and a tongue retraction cup coupled to the distal portion of the handle, the tongue retraction cup being generally concave and sized such that a first side of the tongue retraction cup extends over a first side of the tongue, a second side opposite the first side extends over a second side of the tongue that is opposite the first side of the tongue, a dorsal portion of the cup extends along the dorsal portion of the tongue and a posterior extending tip extends at least partially along the back of the tongue, the first side, second side, and posterior extending tip defining a tongue receiving cavity of the tongue retraction cup.

Abstract: Apparatus and methods for ventral only ablation of the tongue, for use in treating sleep apnea and related breathing disorders. An RF ablation probe or wand is inserted in ventral surface of a patient's tongue in a superior plane along a longitudinal (i.e., anterior to posterior) axis of the tongue, to a predetermined depth. The wand is withdrawn, RF energy is applied, creating a lesion predominantly in the interior of the tongue in an anterior to posterior plane, thereby resulting in less scarring but appreciable movement of the posterior tongue base away from the posterior pharyngeal wall. Also disclosed is a tongue retractor device used for measuring the depth of wand insertion, lifting the tongue to expose the ventral surface of the tongue for the procedure, and providing a stop surface to inhibit further wand insertion.

Abstract: Some embodiments includes an apparatus for retracting an animal tongue that includes a handle that is elongate and that includes a proximal portion and a distal portion and a tongue retraction cup coupled to the distal portion of the handle, the tongue retraction cup being generally concave and sized such that a first side of the tongue retraction cup extends over a first side of the tongue, a second side opposite the first side extends over a second side of the tongue that is opposite the first side of the tongue, a dorsal portion of the cup extends along the dorsal portion of the tongue and a posterior extending tip extends at least partially along the back of the tongue, the first side, second side, and posterior extending tip defining a tongue receiving cavity of the tongue retraction cup.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a tongue depressor with a light. The present invention relates to a tongue depressor designed to be utilized when the clinician is positioned behind the head of the patient, for example, during anesthesia in surgery where insertion or removal of an airway device into the patient is necessary. The depressor comprises an anatomical bend, gripping surface for holding the depressor, a tissue grabbing surface, and a barrel end at the distal end of the grabbing and moving tissue, such as the tongue.

Abstract: The device relates to methods and devices for the treatment of obstructive sleep apnea syndrome.

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

Abstract: A tongue retaining system is disclosed herein generally having, in one variation, a two-part system. A covering can be sized to fit at least partially over or upon a tongue of a patient, where the covering has an engagement mechanism positioned thereon. A retaining device, sized to fit within a mouth of the patient, may be positioned upon the teeth and have a corresponding engagement mechanism positioned thereon for temporarily coupling with the engagement mechanism on the covering. Such a system can be used to maintain or hold a natural position of the tongue within the mouth of the patient to maintain patency of the airway passages.

Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention include an insertion aid device with a handle, a tongue depressor, a tracheal suction catheter guide, and a guide with a recess formed by a pair of prongs. The guide may be configured to accommodate the cross-sectional shape of a tracheal suction catheter, a nasogastric tube, or an orogastric tube. The tracheal suction catheter guide may include a connection port configured to couple to an in-line suction catheter. A light source may be included with the insertion aid device.

Abstract: The present invention discloses a safe surgical mouth gag (MG) having a substantially planar frame larger than the maximal mouth aperture which is defined by at least two cross members, i.e., a longitudinal maxillary cross member and a mandibular cross member and by at least one rod connecting said maxillary and said mandibular cross members; and modules maneuverably interconnected to the same. The modules are selected from a tongue blade approximately perpendicular to the frames' plane, which is vertically displaceable with respect to said mandibular cross member; a retaining member within which said tongue blade shaft is slidably displaceable; retraction elements for urging the cheeks away from the oral cavity; abutment members for contacting the upper teeth or upper maxilla; and at least one light auxiliary located adjacent to oral cavity, adapted to illuminate the same effectively.

Abstract: A medical appliance for positioning the tongue of a patient during a medical procedure includes a suction device having a hollow, bulbous body and an opening for contacting the patient's tongue. Depressing the body generates a suctioning at the opening, which joins the suction device to the tongue. A release valve may be attached to the suction device for releasing the suctioning force. The appliance also includes a retraction cord attached to the body of the suction device, which may be used to position or reposition the tongue to maintain an unobstructed airway. Optionally, one or more weighted clips may be attached to the retraction cord to further hold the tongue in a desired position. A method of controlling the tongue of a patient during a medical procedure using the appliance is also provided.

Abstract: A tongue depressor and throat viewing mechanism adapted to facilitate inspection of the larynx and a medical diagnosis of its condition, the mechanism includes a blade insertable into the mouth to depress the tongue so as to expose the larynx. A camera and a light illuminating unit are located in the front end of the blade. The camera is configured to send image signals to a transmitter which is located in the rear end of the blade. The transmitter sends the images to a display for viewing.

Abstract: An endoscopic bite block system for increasing the speed and efficiency of an endoscopic procedure. The endoscopic bite block system includes a base member including a central opening and at least one tube attachment, a channel member latitudinally extending from an outer edge of the central opening and a strap member removably attached to the base member, wherein the strap member removably attaches the base member to the mouth of the patient.

Abstract: A tongue retaining system is disclosed herein generally having, in one variation, a two-part system. A covering can be sized to fit at least partially over or upon a tongue of a patient, where the covering has an engagement mechanism positioned thereon. A retaining device, sized to fit within a mouth of the patient, may be positioned upon the teeth and have a corresponding engagement mechanism positioned thereon for temporarily coupling with the engagement mechanism on the covering. Such a system can be used to maintain or hold a natural position of the tongue within the mouth of the patient to maintain patency of the airway passages.

Abstract: A mouth guard having a tray with a trough dimensioned to receive at least the front two incisors. Impression material is disposed within the trough for creating a dental impression of the wearer's teeth. The tray further includes a stiffening element which concentrates the force transmission through the tray created by occlusion to an area between the upper and lower front incisors.

Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention feature a device and method for depressing the tongue during surgical procedures. The device features a first planar element, a second planar element and at least one bridge element. Each planar element has a top surface, a bottom surface, an inside edge, an outside edge, a front end, a back end, a length and a width. The length from the front end to the back end corresponds to the distance between the front exterior of the oral cavity to an area of the tonsils. The bottom surface is for placing on the top of the tongue with the front edge into the oral cavity and the back edge toward the exterior of the oral cavity. The top surface creates a chamber with the palate of the patient for viewing and performing surgical procedures. The outside edge of each planar element is for positioning buccally, with the inside edges facing each other spaced apart a distance sized for a laryngeal mask airway device or endotracheal tube, to create a channel space.

Abstract: One embodiment includes an apparatus for retracting an animal tongue that includes a handle that is elongate and that includes a proximal portion and a distal portion and a tongue receiving cup coupled to the distal portion of the handle, the tongue receiving cup being generally concave and sized such that a first side of the tongue receiving cup extends over a first side of the tongue, a second side opposite the first side extends over a second side of the tongue that is opposite the first side of the tongue, a dorsal portion of the cup extends along the dorsal portion of the tongue and a posterior extending tip extends at least partially along the back of the tongue, the first side, second side, and posterior extending tip defining a tongue receiving cavity of the tongue receiving cup.

Abstract: An oral cavity insertion instrument which is to be attached to a monitor device having a long scope portion is provided. The oral cavity insertion instrument is adapted to be used by being inserted into an oral cavity and has a long cover member having a bore which extends in a longitudinal direction thereof, wherein the scope portion of the monitor is adapted to be inserted into the bore. The oral cavity insertion instrument also has a long tongue depressor in the form of a plate. The tongue depressor is provided adjacent to and in contact with the cover member along the longitudinal direction thereof. The oral cavity insertion instrument includes an attachment unit used to attach the cover member to the monitor device. The tongue depressor includes a tip end having a width greater than that of the cover member. A pharyngoscope apparatus provided with the oral cavity insertion instrument is also provided.

Abstract: A tongue stabilizer includes a tongue-engaging plate that is held on a laryngoscope blade by pressure sensitive adhesive, with a foam strip in-between to compensate for any irregularities between the tongue-engaging plate and the laryngoscope blade. The tongue-engaging plate is cup shape to cradle the tongue to prevent the tongue from interfering with the visibility and process of intubation. A protective strip can be used to cover the adhesive.

Abstract: The invention is a multipurpose intra-oral device made of a fastener, a first mouthguard connected to the fastener, wherein the first mouthguard has a first mouthguard base engaging a top tooth, a first mouthguard buccal surface, a first mouthguard lingual surface and a first mouthguard occlusal surface, a second mouthguard connected to the fastener, wherein the second mouthguard has a second mouthguard base to engage a bottom tooth, a second mouthguard buccal side, a second mouthguard lingual side and a second mouthguard occlusal surface, at least one first tube connected to one of the mouthguards surface, and at least one first post connected to the other of the mouthguard surface for engaging the tube.

Abstract: A bite block system for maintaining the mouth of the patient in an open position during a dental procedure. In one embodiment, the bite block includes a plastically deformable material on at least a surface thereof for making an impression of the patient's teeth. Such customized bite blocks provide greater safety and comfort. In another aspect, a tongue suppressing bite block system includes a bite block and a tongue suppressor adjustably attached thereto so that the tongue depressor can be adjusted horizontally or vertically relative to the bite block to account for variations in the size of patient's mouths, teeth and tongues. In another aspect of the invention, an anatomical tongue depressor is provided for use with a bite block. The anatomical tongue depressor wraps around the side and underneath the tongue in order to cradle it in a more comfortable and secure fashion when in use with a bite block.

Abstract: Systems and related methods treat snoring and other sleep related disorders by stabilizing the position of a tongue in an oral cavity. The systems and methods employ an operative element sized and configured to be fitted to less mobile tissue in the oral cavity. The operative element is further constructed and arranged to interact with a tongue in the airway to stabilize a preferred tissue orientation. The operative element can comprise a suction source sized and configured to draw more mobile tongue tissue toward the suction source. The operative element can comprise a magnetic source sized and configured to magnetically attract material fitted to more mobile tongue tissue in the airway.

Abstract: A group or kit of surgical instruments (FIG. 26) for use in minimally invasive surgical procedures. In one embodiment the invention is an instrument (10) with a generally central longitudinal axis and a generally toroidal surface generally transverse to the axis wherein the convex portion (20) of the surface does not extend beyond a line parallel with the longitudinal axis along an outer diameter of the instrument. The surface has a continuous edge (22) having a first end (24) at a shoulder (26) and a second end (28) at the shoulder (26), and spaced from the first end. In another embodiment the instrument has a working end (12) with a generally longitudinal axis, and the working end defined by a generally curved surface along the longitudinal axis wherein the curved surface has a concave portion, and a convex portion wherein the working end has a generally flat tip.

Abstract: The present invention contemplates a new device for adjustably attaching a tongue blade to an endoscope. In general, the device secures a tongue blade holder to the body of an endoscope and permits adjustment of the angle of the tongue blade with respect to the light source of the endoscope. Typically, the device has a clamp for receiving an endoscope body near the juncture of the handle and the light source of the endoscope. The clamp has a fastener for securing the clamp to the outer surface of the endoscope body and may be adapted for use with endoscopes somewhat larger or smaller in cross section than the clamp opening. The clamp has an attached tongue blade holder pivotably attached to the clamp and securable at an angle relative to the endoscope light source. The device also has several surfaces for the display of graphics.

Abstract: A candy coated tongue depressor manufactured from an edible material. The edible material is selected from a group consisting of candy, chocolate, fruit, fruit composite, vegetable, vegetable composite, flour, flour composite, ice, flavored ice, meat, meat composite, poultry, poultry composite, fish and fish composite. The tongue depressor, as an alternative, is manufactured from a non-edible material. The non-edible material is selected from a group consisting of wood, wood composite, plastic, plastic composite, rubber, rubber composite, metal, and metal alloy. The candy coated tongue depressor 10 further has a candy coating securely affixed to the outer surface of the tongue depressor rear. The candy is hard candy or chocolate.

Abstract: A tongue depressor and throat viewing assembly which includes a disposable flat blade for depressing the tongue of a subject in order to expose his larynx for inspection so that its condition can be diagnosed. Attachable to the trailing end of the blade is a light source and throat viewer unit which projects a light beam to illuminate the exposed larynx and to obtain a digital image thereof which is conveyed to an external computer monitor station. At this station, the image is exhibited on a screen, and is stored in a database for future use.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a retraction plate for displacing soft tissue. The plate includes a window located in between first and second end parts. Each of the end parts has connecting elements for removably securing an elongate element. Coupling of elongate elements to the connecting elements allows lifting of the plate to retract soft tissue, thereby creating a cavity between the soft-tissue mantle and bone to perform a surgical procedure. The retraction plate provides access to a fracture and allows fracture fixation using a minimally invasive surgical technique.

Abstract: A tongue lifting tool and method for using such tool are provided. The tool has a tongue holder for supporting a patient's tongue and a holding portion coupled to the tongue holder.

Abstract: A tongue depressor, including an elongated strip or body having opposite ends separated by a flat midsection wherein each end is curved in an opposite or reverse direction. One end of the strip is curved upwardly while the opposite end of the strip is curved downwardly. The entire length of the strip may embody a slight, weak, or shallow curve. The width of the strip may be wider than commonly employed and also, the respective opposite ends of the strip may be wider than the midsection which interconnects the opposite ends. A separate end section may include a doubled over depressor piece and the section may insertably receive the end of a flat stick.

Abstract: A disposable dental mirror and methods of making same. The mirror includes a long, thin, flat blade that provides both a handle and a mirror mount and has a reflective surface applied to one end thereof. The blade is made of a material which need not be sterilizable, such as wood or plastic. In a one embodiment, the reflective surface is made of a metallized film directly applied to one surface of the blade. In an alternate embodiment, a thin, flat piece of a rigid material is located between the blade and the reflective film to ensure flatness of the reflecting surface, thereby reducing distortion.

Abstract: A group or kit of surgical instruments (FIG. 26) for use in minimally invasive surgical procedures. In one embodiment the invention is an instrument (10) with a generally central longitudinal axis and a generally toroidal surface generally transverse to the axis wherein the convex portion (20) of the surface does not extend beyond a line parallel with the longitudinal axis along an outer diameter of the instrument. The surface has a continuous edge (22) having a first end (24) at a shoulder (26) and a second end (28) at the shoulder (26), and spaced from the first end. In another embodiment the instrument has a working end (12) with a generally longitudinal axis, and the working end defined by a generally curved surface along the longitudinal axis wherein the curved surface has a concave portion, and a convex portion wherein the working end has a generally flat tip.

Abstract: A disposable tongue retractor having a tapered elongated body with downwardly curving hook ends.

Abstract: An improved laryngoscope blade, where the lingual side of the blade, being the side that is presented against a patient's tongue during examination, defines a concave area which defines a cavity which allows the patient's tongue to be cradled during the examination, and where the curved descending sides of the blade proiaote and urge the tongue into the cavity area, and prevent the tongue from flattening out sufficiently so as to curve over onto the top side of the blade, where the view of the patient's airway would be obstructed.

Abstract: The present invention discloses an edible tongue depressor and method of use which may be used for conducting examinations of a patient's oral cavity. The depressor is a generally elongated member having generally convex shaped top and bottom surfaces with sufficient rigidity to permit the depressing of a patient's tongue. The top and bottom surfaces may also comprise a series of ridges lending additional structural support. The depressors may be manufactured in a variety of flavors so that the patient can select his or her favorite. The invention also contemplates and edible tooth-pick and support stick for frozen deserts and the like.

Abstract: A candy-tongue depressor for encouraging the cooperation of a child or teenager during an oral examination by a medical practitioner is provided. The device comprises, in combination: (a) a thin, flat, nonedible stick with a longitudinal axis; the nonedible stick having a distal end for grasping by the medical practitioner; and a proximal end for contacting the tongue of a patient; and (b) a thin layer of candy which covers the proximal end, but not the distal end, of the nonedible stick. A combination candy tongue depressor and flexible, reclosable, translucent wrapper is also provided.

Abstract: A tongue depressor includes a blade including a tongue contact portion, a flavor coating secured to the tongue contact portion, a stylized handle portion, and a structure for detaching the stylized handle portion from the tongue contact portion. The blade is preferably elongate and formed as a single piece of stiff and resilient material. The stylized handle portion includes an image, and preferably has a forward surface and the image is formed in the forward surface of the handle portion. The blade preferably has an edge with edge irregularities and the image extends to the blade edge so that the edge irregularities form part of the image. The image is alternatively printed on a sticker affixed to the handle portion. The image is still alternatively printed directly onto the handle portion. The image may be that of a person, and is optionally one of a variety of images constituting a collection. The flavor coating is preferably an edible food material.

Abstract: A tongue depressor for medical use comprising a non-toxic thermoplastic material and an aromatic sweetener and/or its derivatives, which are molded by process of injection molding originating an article of vibrant colors, with taste and smell, being 8 to 20 cm long, 1 to 4 cm wide and 0.1 to 0.3 cm thick.

Abstract: A tripartite dental instrument includes a curved-trough-like lip retractor, flat-fin-like cheek retractor and a straight handle. The handle and the cheek retractor are separately connected to the lip retractor at nearby locations and are each obliquely oriented with respect to the lip retractor. The dental practitioner selectively retracts the patient's lip (upper or lower) and/or cheek (left or right) while the lip retractor cradles the patient's lip at one side of the patient's mouth. The angularities and configurations featured by the inventive dental instrument advantageously afford the dental practitioner unobstructive, noninjurious and precise manipulative adjustability of either or both the lip retraction and cheek retraction functions.

Abstract: A tongue depressor with an elongate body having a tongue depressing end portion extending at a downward angle from the body and in the form of a ring with an aperture.

Abstract: An illuminated tongue depressor is formed by an elongated relatively narrow body having a handle end portion containing a battery and a proximal end portion having a curvature conforming to the larynx defining a convex top surface and a concave ventral surface having a friction inducing antislip texture adjacent its proximal end. A lamp imbedded in the top surface is connected with the battery by wiring through a switch. A sanitary disposable sheath envelopes the proximal end portion of the body.

Abstract: A tongue depressor which includes a blade and a holder. One end of the blade functions as a conventional tongue depressor. The other end of the blade accommodates the holder which functions to receive and grasp the stick of a lollipop. In another configuration, the tongue depressor includes a blade for restraining the tongue of the patient, the blade being formed with a slot shaped to accommodate the stick of the lollipop.

Abstract: An improved tongue depressor (10) that has a flat elongated blade (12) having a first end (14) and a second end (16). To the first end (14) is integrally attached a first tongue-contact section (34) and to the second end (16) is integrally attached a second tongue-contact section (70). Each of the tongue-contact sections has a lower surface (42) that includes sequentially, a downward slope (44), (80), a flat horizontal surface (48), (84) and an upper slope (52,88). The downward slope and the flat horizontal surface interface with the tongue and preferably have a non-slip surface (60). At the center and lower horizontal surface (20) of the elongated blade (12) is located a reinforcing protrusion (28) that prevents the tongue depressor from bending or breaking in the middle. Because the size of an adult mouth is generally larger than a child's mouth, one of the tongue-contact sections is made with a smaller width. Also, the tongue depressor is constructed of a plastic.

Abstract: An elongated relatively thin longitudinally arcuately bowed disposable tongue depressor having the major portion of its length characterized by a transverse wide substantially V-shape and having a flesh adhesive texture on the respective end portions of its ventral surface.