Abstract: This invention is a wearable device or system for optical analysis of breast tissue which be embodied in a “smart bra” or an insert which is placed into the cup of a conventional bra. This device or system has light emitters which transmit light into breast tissue and light receivers which receive the light after it has been transmitted through the breast tissue. It also has expandable chambers which gently compress a breast to reduce light diffusion and improve optical scanning of breast tissue.

Abstract: A system for facilitating communications of assistance information for a caregiver includes an external defibrillator configured to collect patient treatment data, a first communications module for providing communication links between the external defibrillator and at least one remote medical services system, and at least one portable computing device comprising a second communications module. The first communications module is configured to communicate the patient treatment data to the at least one portable computing device via the second communications module, and the second communications module is configured to receive the patient treatment data in real-time, communicatively couple to the at least one remote medical services system, and based on the patient treatment data, receive assistance information for the caregiver from the at least one remote medical services system.

Abstract: A device and method coupled to a therapy garment to apply pressure and repetitive compression forces to a body of a person has a positive air pulse generator and a user programmable time, frequency and pressure controller operable to regulate the duration of operation, frequency of the air pulses and a selected air pressure applied to the body of a person. The air pulse generator has rigid displacers that are angularly moved with power transmission assemblies to draw air into the air pulse generator and discharge air pressure pulses to the therapy garment.

Abstract: Anchoring of fabrics for applications in which force is applied by or on the fabric facilitates new uses and functionalities. Dynamic anchoring through any of three modes (mechanical, compressive, or friction-based) enables transient or permanent anchoring across a garment or other fabric.

Abstract: A system and method for determining CPR induced chest compression depth using two sensors while accounting for different orientations of the two sensors.

Abstract: A device for treating chest wall injuries, including rib fractures, flail chest injuries or surgical incisions is described herein. The device includes a localized airtight compartment external to the chest wall and fully covering the area of injury, and is capable of varying the pressure within the compartment, and providing dynamic real-time counter forces that act reciprocal to the intrathoracic pressure changes that occur during ventilation. In a preferred embodiment, the device has the capability of sensing the patient's chest wall motion created by ventilation, and includes a pressure control component capable of varying the pressure within the airtight compartment such that it opposes pressure changes within the chest. The apparatus would be particularly useful in preventing the paradoxical movement of flail chest injuries. The device would also lessen pain experienced by patients with thoracic injuries such as rib fractures and post operative suffering.

Abstract: An example system includes a first wearable computing device, and at least one additional wearable computing device. The first wearable computing device is configured to retrieve information regarding a series of tasks to be performed in treating a patient in cardiopulmonary arrest. The information includes, for each task, an indication of a user to perform the task, an indication of a time point to perform the task. The first wearable computing device is further configured identify one or more subsets of the information, and transmit each subset to a different corresponding one of the additional wearable computing devices. Each additional wearable computing device is configured to receive, from the first wearable computing device, at least one of the one or more subsets of the information, and output, for each task within a received subset, a corresponding prompt to perform the task at the respective time point associated with the task.

Abstract: A cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) device for performing automatic defibrillation and chest compressions on a patient and method for using same. The CPR device having a balloon configured to inflate/deflate, a belt configured to securely strap around a chest of a patient, a pair of electrode pads configured to deliver shock energy from a shock source, and, optionally, a pulse oximeter sensor. The CPR device is in electrical communication with a CPR defibrillator/ECG computer system that is configured to control the CPR device.

Abstract: A device for use by an individual varying in form, i.e. shape, during its use and allowing for the user to select multiple variations of form either discretely or in combination and for these dynamic variations to be controllable simultaneously and interchangeably while being transparent to the normal use of the device, including the ability to insert, withdraw, rotate, and actuate the variable features manually or remotely. According to embodiments of the invention localized and global variations of devices are implemented using fluidics and electromagnetic pumps/valves wherein a fluid is employed such that controlling the pressure of the fluid results in the movement of an element within the device or the expansion/contraction of an element within the device.

Abstract: An ambulatory respiratory assist device utilizes a cuirass worn on the chest and/or abdomen and supported by a hip belt so that it does not place a load on the patient's shoulders. The belt also supports a ventilator that includes a pump and its power supply, valving, controls and auxiliary equipment. The device is optionally integrated with auxiliary features such as chest wall vibration, which can be achieved by utilizing cuirass pressure modulation, with shoulder or upper arm supports for simulating the “tripod position”, with positive pressure ventilation apparatus, or with patient monitoring. Shoulder or upper arm supports can extend directly from the belt to the shoulders or upper arms, utilized independently of the cuirass, and optionally integrated with one or more of the above-mentioned auxiliary features.

Abstract: A chest compression device with a chest compression belt assembly including guards and sensors operable with a control system to control operation of the system depending on detection of proper installation of the guards.

Abstract: Devices and methods for performing CPR on a patient within an imaging field of an imaging device. The device has a compression belt and a belt tensioning mechanism, both located on or in the device such that the head, neck, thorax and abdomen of the patient may be place within the imaging field with the compression belt installed about the patient and the belt tensioning mechanism will be located outside of the imaging field.

Abstract: A CPR machine (100) is configured to perform, on a patient's (182) chest, compressions that alternate with releases. The CPR machine includes a compression mechanism (148), and a driver system (141) configured to drive the compression mechanism. A force sensing system (149) may sense a compression force, and the driving can be adjusted accordingly if there is a surprise. For instance, driving may have been automatic according to a motion-time profile, which is adjusted if the compression force is not as expected (850). An optional chest-lifting device (152) may lift the chest between the compressions, to assist actively the decompression of the chest. A lifting force may be sensed, and the motion-time profile can be adjusted if the compression force or the lifting force is not as expected.

Abstract: A respiration-assistance apparatus or method can include or use a lifting element such as to cyclically push, pull, or lift, toward a superior direction of the subject, at least one subject region during an inhalation portion of a respiration cycle of the subject. A cyclical member can couple the lifting element to a fixed reference. Abdominal or ribcage compression can be provided. A multi-action or other cam can be used, such as together with a reciprocating element. Examples can be configured for use with a wheelchair, a bed, a vacuum or suction affixation element, a wearable garment, etc.

Abstract: A customizable mask including a conforming seal is configured to utilize the physical process of granular jamming to enable it to adapt to a wide range of facial geometries. The mask may include a frame having a perimeter and a conduit connection, a conforming seal positioned along the perimeter of the frame. The conforming seal may include a sealing surface and a connecting surface, the connecting surface configured to mate with the perimeter of the frame, and the sealing surface configured to conform to a users' face. The conforming seal may further include an outer casing, granular material contained within the outer casing, and a vacuum connection. The mask may also include a similarly configured conforming frame. Further disclosed are methods of forming such masks.

Abstract: This disclosure relates to device for providing continuous negative abdominal pressure (CNAP) which selectively recruits (inflates) the dorsal (spinal region) collapsed areas of the lung, while enabling the patient to remain in the supine (usual) position. The CNAP device includes a rigid frame configured to have a shape and size to envelop a patient's lower chest and abdominal area while in a supine position with the frame having opposed edges which sit on a surface on which the supine patient is resting. A series of panels are mounted in the frame such that the series of panels extend around the patient's lower chest and abdominal area. A flexible sheet wrapped around the outside of the panels and is long enough to extend up to the patient's upper chest and down to the patient's thighs and wide enough to envelop the supine patient's lower chest and abdominal area.

Abstract: A device includes a body defining a respiration passage in fluidic communication with a filter fitting disposed on a first end of the body and a mask fitting disposed on a second end of the body, and a treatment passage in fluidic communication with the mask fitting. A treatment fitting is disposed on the body and is coupleable to a treatment source such that a seal in the treatment fitting transitions from a closed state to an open state to allow fluidic communication between the treatment source and the treatment passage. The device configured to permit (i) inhalation air and/or exhaled breath to be drawn and/or expelled through the filter fitting, the respiration passage, and the mask fitting and (ii) a respiratory therapeutic to be drawn from the treatment source coupled to the treatment fitting, through the treatment passage, and through the mask fitting.

Abstract: An automated resuscitation system is provided, which can improve the outcome of patients suffering ventricular fibrillation or the ventricular tachycardia variants of cardiac arrest. This outcome can be achieved by a device that integrates automatic mechanical or pneumatic capability with electrical countershock capability such that the probability of defibrillation or cardioversion with return of spontaneous circulation is increased.

Abstract: A method for treating chest wall injuries, including rib fractures, flail chest injuries or surgical incisions. The method comprising creating a localized airtight compartment external to the chest wall and fully covering the area of injury, varying the pressure within the compartment, and providing dynamic real-time counter forces that act reciprocal to the intrathoracic pressure changes that occur during ventilation. In a preferred embodiment, the apparatus has the capability of sensing the patient's chest wall motion created by ventilation, a pressure control component capable of varying the pressure within the airtight compartment such that it opposes pressure changes within the chest. The apparatus would be particularly useful in preventing the paradoxical movement of flail chest injuries. The method would also lessen pain experienced by patients with thoracic injuries such as rib fractures and post operative suffering.

Abstract: An adjustable respirator shell, suitable for being worn on a human body trunk, includes a body, a belt and a buffer. The body includes a protrusive portion and a contact portion. The protrusive portion has an opening connecting a fluid pressure controller, and the contact portion is to contact the human body trunk. The belt, connecting the body, is to surround the human body trunk so as to fasten the adjustable respirator shell on the human body trunk. The buffer covers a circumference of the contact portion, and the contact portion contacts the human body trunk via the buffer. In addition, the buffer includes at least one cushion.

Abstract: An automated chest compression device for performing CPR, with distance sensors disposed on a compressing mechanism and on a structure fixed relative to the CPR patient, for determining inferior/superior movement of the compressing mechanism over the course of multiple compressions.

Abstract: An example of a system for providing emergency care to a patient is described that includes a backboard arranged to support the patient, a chest compressor attached to the backboard and positioned to engage the patient at the chest, the chest compressor configured to provide multiple chest compression cycles to the patient, a cuirass attached to the backboard and positioned to engage the patient at the abdomen, the cuirass configured to generate negative pressure to pull outward on the abdomen and to provide multiple abdominal compression cycles to the patient and a controller including processors configured to: control the chest compressor to perform the multiple chest compression cycles according to a programmed sequence, control the cuirass to perform the multiple abdominal compression cycles according to the programmed sequence, and control the cuirass to generate the negative pressure to pull outward on the abdomen during the multiple abdominal compression cycles.

Abstract: A customizable mask including a conforming seal is configured to utilize the physical process of granular jamming to enable it to adapt to a wide range of facial geometries. The mask may include a frame having a perimeter and a conduit connection, a conforming seal positioned along the perimeter of the frame; the conforming seal may include a sealing surface and a connecting surface, the connecting surface configured to mate with the perimeter of the frame, and the sealing surface configured to conform to a users' face. The conforming seal may further include an outer casing, granular material contained within the outer casing, and a vacuum connection. The mask may also include a similarly configured conforming frame.

Abstract: The present invention discloses ventilation apparatus, comprising a casing with a first vent and a second vent, a fixed spacer disposed within the casing, and a movable spacer in operative connection with a power mechanism. Also discloses herein are methods for ventilating a subject, by synchronously providing a positive pressure ventilation and a negative pressure ventilation using the ventilation apparatus described herein.

Abstract: Aspects of the invention include devices and methods for correcting a torso deformity of a patient. The devices include a suction chamber for placement around the torso deformity and to provide negative pressure to the torso deformity; and a measurement component coupled to the suction chamber. The measurement component is adapted to indicate a relative distance between the torso deformity and a distal surface of the suction chamber. The methods include positioning a torso deformity correcting device around a torso deformity on a torso of a patient. The methods further include withdrawing air from the suction chamber to apply negative pressure within the suction chamber to displace the torso deformity, and setting a negative pressure level by measuring the relative distance of the torso deformity and the distal surface of the suction chamber that is indicated by the measurement component.

Abstract: The invention provides a device (11) for assisting a cough, based on an oscillation pressure. The oscillation pressure causes a periodic oscillation airflow in a lung system and the periodic oscillation airflow comprises an oscillation exhalation airflow and an oscillation inhalation airflow. The device (10) comprises a controlling unit (11), and the controlling unit (11) comprises: a first determining unit (111) for determining whether an inhalation of the lung system is complete, so as to control a valve (13) which is to be closed for isolating the lung system from the external environment, a second determining unit (112) for determining whether an internal air pressure in the lung system is larger than a pre-defined pressure threshold, and a detecting unit (113) for detecting the start of the oscillation exhalation airflow, so as to control the valve (13) which is to be opened for starting a cough.

Abstract: A method for providing emergency care to a patient of an adverse cardiac event is disclosed that includes causing multiple chest compressions to be provided to the patient, and causing multiple inducements of ventilation to be provided to the patient. Particular ones of the multiple chest compressions can overlap time-wise with corresponding ones of the multiple inducements of ventilation, and can be substantially out of phase with the corresponding ones of the multiple inducements of ventilation.

Abstract: In embodiments, an external medical device is intended to care for a patient. If it receives an input that signifies that ventilation artifact is present in a signal of the patient, it transmits a corrective signal responsive to the received input. In further embodiments, a patient signal is received, which is generated from a patient while the patient is or was receiving chest compressions at a frequency Fc, and also receiving ventilations at frequency Fv. At least one filter mechanism may be applied to the patient signal to substantially remove artifacts at a) frequency Fc, b) a higher harmonic of frequency Fc, and c) a third frequency substantially equaling frequency Fc plus or minus frequency Fv, while substantially passing other frequencies between them. As a result, the patient signal can be cleaner, for diagnosing the patient's state more accurately.

Abstract: The system and method provide for electrocardiogram analysis and optimization of patient-customized cardiopulmonary resuscitation and therapy delivery. An external medical device includes a housing and a processor within the housing. The processor can be configured to receive an input signal for a patient receiving chest compressions and to select at least one filter mechanism and to apply the filter mechanism to the signal to at least substantially remove chest compression artifacts from the signal. A real time dynamic analysis of a cardiac rhythm is applied to adjust and integrate CPR prompting of a medical device. Real-time cardiac rhythm quality is facilitated using a rhythm assessment meter.

Abstract: The present invention provides a mask for sealing an area around a patient's mouth and nose for delivery of an aerosol. The mask includes a mask body having an opening for reception of the aerosol and a mask seal configured to engage a patient's face around the nose and mouth. An adapter is arranged to be removably attached to the mask body for removably coupling the mask body to an aerosol delivery device.

Abstract: Systems, methods, and devices are described for providing a brace having an inflation control. The control directs fluid flow from an inflation component to one or more inflatable cells of the brace. The inflatable cells are independently inflated and deflated by the inflation component through the control. The control allows a user to create a fluid path between the inflation component and one of the inflatable cells by positioning the control in an orientation corresponding to the desired inflatable cells. Each inflatable cell is independently inflated and deflated in various orientations of the control.

Abstract: In embodiments, an external medical device is intended to care for a patient. If it receives an input that signifies that ventilation artifact is present in a signal of the patient, it transmits a corrective signal responsive to the received input. In further embodiments, a patient signal is received, which is generated from a patient while the patient is or was receiving chest compressions at a frequency Fc, and also receiving ventilations at frequency Fv. At least one filter mechanism may be applied to the patient signal to substantially remove artifacts at a) frequency Fc, b) a higher harmonic of frequency Fc, and c) a third frequency substantially equaling frequency Fc plus or minus frequency Fv, while substantially passing other frequencies between them. As a result, the patient signal can be cleaner, for diagnosing the patient's state more accurately.

Abstract: A device and method coupled to a therapy garment to apply pressure and repetitive compression forces to a body of a person has an air pulsator and a user programmable time, frequency and pressure controller operable to regulate the duration of operation, frequency of the air pulses and a selected air pressure applied to the body of a person.

Abstract: A forehead-contacting device for a breathing mask includes a support element made from an elastomer material. The support element forms a support face which in an application position is adapted to seat on a forehead area of a user. The support element includes a jacket that defines a hollow chamber adapted to be filled with a viscous medium.

Abstract: A high frequency chest wall oscillation (HFCWO) apparatus for the purpose of lung airway clearance of people includes an inflated vest type garment worn around the chest of a person. An oscillating pressure generator with reduced power requirements and a power source is integrated with the garment so that the complete apparatus is wearable by the person. Improvements in pressure waveforms, safety and compliance to prescribed use are disclosed.

Abstract: In embodiments, an external medical device is intended to care for a patient. If it receives an input that signifies that ventilation artifact is present in a signal of the patient, it transmits a corrective signal responsive to the received input. In further embodiments, a patient signal is received, which is generated from a patient while the patient is or was receiving chest compressions at a frequency Fc, and also receiving ventilations at frequency Fv. At least one filter mechanism may be applied to the patient signal to substantially remove artifacts at a) frequency Fc, b) a higher harmonic of frequency Fc, and c) a third frequency substantially equaling frequency Fc plus or minus frequency Fv, while substantially passing other frequencies between them. As a result, the patient signal can be cleaner, for diagnosing the patient's state more accurately.

Abstract: An external medical device can include a housing and a processor within the housing. The processor can be configured to receive an input signal for a patient receiving chest compressions from a mechanical chest compression device. The processor can also be configured to select at least one filter mechanism, the mechanical chest compression device having a chest compression frequency f. The processor can be further configured to apply the at least one filter mechanism to the signal to at least substantially remove chest compression artifacts from the signal, wherein the chest compression artifacts correspond to the chest compressions being delivered to the patient by the mechanical chest compression device, and wherein the at least one filter mechanism substantially rejects content in the frequency f plus content in at least one more frequency that is a higher harmonic to the frequency f.

Abstract: A plunger adapter and a detachable compression pad for piston driven chest compression devices optimizes the application of chest compressions to a fixed location on a patient's chest. The detachable compression pad may be removably secured to the patient above the patient's sternum to ensure that the compression pressure from the piston through the piston adapter is applied to a fixed location on the patient's chest. As the plunger and plunger adapter retract from the chest, the compression pad remains fixed to the patient's chest, and as the plunger and plunger adapter extend from the chest compression unit for subsequent compression strokes, the distal end of the plunger adapter reengages the compression pad to apply compression to a fixed location on the patient's chest.

Abstract: A device (1) for the medical care of a patient in an emergency which comprises an item of clothing (2) which may be worn by the patient on the body and monitoring devices (8, 9) arranged on the item of clothing (2), which may monitor at least one physiological function of the patient, in order to detect an emergency. The device further comprises a cardiac compression device (3, 4) arranged on the item of clothing (2), which is operatively connected to the monitoring device (8, 9), in order to treat the patient with a cardiac resuscitation when the monitoring device (3, 4) determines an emergency, and a defibrillator (5, 6, 7) as well as the intraosseous delivery of drugs into the bone marrow cavity of the breast bone. Moreover, a device (1) for the medical care of a patient in an emergency, which comprises as a therapeutic device a respiratory therapeutic device (10, 11, 12, 13) which is able to supply oxygen and/or a drug for pulmonary resuscitation into the respiratory system of the patient.

Abstract: A body surface compression device for generating cyclical or constant compressions for medical purposes. Compression is accomplished using pneumatic actuated artificial muscle in combination with a belt placed around a body part. Both artificial muscle shortening and pneumatic expansion are used for compression. A unique useful property of this system is the length-tension characteristic similar to natural muscle which reduces applied compressive force proportionally with the level of volume compression of the body part. This property as well as a uniformly applied compression over the body part allows compression to be accomplished in a way which resembles natural muscle activation and minimizes overall abnormal stress on the body part.

Abstract: A plunger adapter and a detachable compression pad for piston driven chest compression devices optimizes the application of chest compressions to a fixed location on a patient's chest. The detachable compression pad may be removably secured to the patient above the patient's sternum to ensure that the compression pressure from the piston through the piston adapter is applied to a fixed location on the patient's chest. As the plunger and plunger adapter retract from the chest, the compression pad remains fixed to the patient's chest, and as the plunger and plunger adapter extend from the chest compression unit for subsequent compression strokes, the distal end of the plunger adapter reengages the compression pad to apply compression to a fixed location on the patient's chest.

Abstract: A method for improving the cardiac output of a patient who is suffering from pulseless electrical activity or shock and yet still displays some myocardial wall motion including sensing myocardial activity to determine the presence of residual left ventricular pump function having a contraction or ejection phase and a filling or relaxation phase. In such cases, a compressive force is repeatedly applied to the chest based on the sensed myocardial activity such that the compressive force is applied during at least some of the ejection phases and is ceased during at least some of the relaxation phases to permit residual cardiac filling, thereby enhancing cardiac output and organ perfusion. Also incorporated may be a logic circuit capable of utilizing multiple sensing modalities and optimizing the synchronization pattern between multiple phasic therapeutic modalities and myocardial residual mechanical function.

Abstract: Optical alignment for piston driven chest compression devices optimizes the application of chest compressions to a fixed location on a subject's chest and provides information regarding the depth and frequency of chest compressions. The targeting system records and may display some telemetry corresponding to any movement or “walking” away from the selected compression site as well as the depth and frequency of compressions. The targeting system is interconnected to the compression device controller and the targeting system provides warnings to operators if the compression components contact the subject outside a preset warning limit away from the selected compression site. The targeting system may also halt the compression device if the site of contact between the compression components and the subject is located outside a preset absolute limit.

Abstract: An automated chest compression device for performing CPR, with distance sensors disposed on a compressing mechanism and on a structure fixed relative to the CPR patient, for determining inferior/superior movement of the compressing mechanism over the course of multiple compressions.

Abstract: Safety mechanisms for compression belt cartridges used in chest compression devices. The safety mechanisms include a breakable link, liner socks, belt guards and a rapid-release connector. The breakable link ensures that unsafe belt tension will not occur. The liner socks protect the patient from friction and contain the breakable link. The belt guards protect foreign objects from entering the belt drive platform. The rapid-release connector allows the belt to be removed safely even during compressions.

Abstract: A system for resuscitation of a heart attack victim. The system includes CPR device which compresses the victim's chest, a defibrillator which may be used to defibrillate the patient, and an identification system for identifying the person operating the system. Depending on the identity of the operator, the system permits varying degrees of access to components and enablement of the functions of the various subsystems.

Abstract: A support structure for fixating a patient to a treatment unit, and especially a support structure for fixating the patient to a cardiopulmonary resuscitation unit. An embodiment of the support structure comprises a back plate for positioning behind the patient's back posterior to the patient's heart and a front part for positioning around the patient's chest anterior to the patient's heart. Further, the front part can comprise two legs, each leg having a first end pivotably connected to at least one hinge and a second end removably attachable to the back plate. The front part can further be devised for comprising a compression/decompression unit arranged to automatically compress or decompress the patient's chest when the front part is attached to the back plate.

Abstract: A vest for a human body has an air core coupled to a pulsator operable to subject the vest to pulses of air which applies and releases high frequency pressure forces to the body. The pulsator has two diaphragms connected to a brushless electric dc motor with rotary to reciprocating linear motion transmitting mechanisms comprising scotch yokes having anti-lash assemblies operable to generate air pulses in an air pulsing chamber. The diaphragms also increase the pressure in a manifold chamber. A check valve connects the manifold chamber with a pulsing chamber to allow pressurized air to flow from the manifold chamber into the pulsing chamber. An air flow control valve in communication with the manifold chamber is used to adjust the pressure of the air in the manifold and pulsing chambers. A programmable motor controller adjusts the duration of operation and speed of the motor to vary the operational time and frequency of the air pulses.

Abstract: A compression belt cartridge for use with chest compression devices. The compression belt cartridge has a double-oar shaped belt and a cover plate through which the belt is threaded. The cover plate is provided with hooks and snap latches that fit into a belt drive platform. The cover plate is sized and dimensioned to fit within only selected platforms. The belt attaches to the means for tightening the belt via a spline attached to the belt. The means for tightening a belt then repetitively tightens the belt, thereby accomplishing chest compressions.

Abstract: A HFCWO apparatus includes a housing having a port, a therapy system carried by the housing and operable to deliver HFCWO therapy to a patient in accordance with a set of operating parameters, and a memory device couplable to the port for storing at least a portion of the set of operating parameters. The therapy system may be operable in accordance with the portion of the set of operating parameters stored in the memory device. The apparatus may comprise a wireless transmitter carried by the housing and operable to wirelessly transmit data relating to HFCWO therapy to a wireless device, such as a printer, PC, a PDA, and the like.