Abstract: A cervical collar system that includes a collar assembly that includes a wall member having an inner side and an outer side and a bladder member secured on the inner side of the wall member. The collar assembly includes an open position and a closed position and is configured to be received on the neck of a wearer. The cervical collar system also includes a first pump assembly in fluid communication with the bladder member.

Abstract: A head stabilization device having the form of a skull clamp includes a first pin assembly and a second pin assembly. The pin assemblies are positioned opposite each other, and the first pin assembly has a first pin while the second pin assembly has a pair of pins. The pins used with the skull clamp are non-uniform. In this respect skull clamp can apply an equal force to a head of a patient from both sides. Additionally, the pressure at each pin location can be the same or substantially the same. This allows each of the pins to have the same or similar bone penetration when in use stabilizing the head of the patient.

Abstract: A surgical universal headrest is disclosed. In one embodiment, a body has two lateral wings slidably coupled to the body. Each lateral wing has an arm moveably secured thereto with a range of proximal-to-distal motion with respect to a medial line of the body. The body, lateral wings, and the arms, in cooperative combination, define a support perimeter of adjustable size having an opening therethrough. The support perimeter of adjustable size accommodates patients ranging from premature infants to adults and the opening accommodates an eye-nose-mouth region of a patient ranging from a premature infant to an adult. A skull pin holder assembly is included.

Abstract: A surgical universal headrest is disclosed. In one embodiment, a body has two lateral wings slidably coupled to the body. Each lateral wing has an arm moveably secured thereto with a range of proximal-to-distal motion with respect to a medial line of the body. The body, lateral wings, and the arms, in cooperative combination, define a support perimeter of adjustable size having an opening therethrough. The support perimeter of adjustable size accommodates patients ranging from premature infants to adults and the opening accommodates an eye-nose-mouth region of a patient ranging from a premature infant to an adult. A skull pin holder assembly is included.

Abstract: A surgical universal headrest is disclosed. In one embodiment, a body has two lateral wings slidably coupled to the body. Each lateral wing has an arm moveably secured thereto with a range of proximal-to-distal motion with respect to a medial line of the body. The body, lateral wings, and the arms, in cooperative combination, define a support perimeter of adjustable size having an opening therethrough. The support perimeter of adjustable size accommodates patients ranging from premature infants to adults and the opening accommodates an eye-nose-mouth region of a patient ranging from a premature infant to an adult. A skull pin holder assembly is included.

Abstract: An electrical connector includes an insulating body, a number of first conductive terminals and a metal shell. The insulating body includes a first butting protrusion having a first slot. The metal shell is assembled to the insulating body along an assembling direction. The metal shell includes a top wall, a bottom wall, two side walls and a partition wall. The metal shell includes a first receiving cavity for receiving a first mating plug. The metal shell further includes an installation opening extending downwardly to receive the insulating body. The electrical connector includes a first stop portion provided on the first mating protrusion and adapted for stopping further insertion of the first mating plug.

Abstract: An acupressure headband apparatus for helping people sleep includes a headband having a band front side, a band back side, a band left edge, a band right edge, an open band top edge, and a band bottom edge. A strap is coupled to the band right edge. A pair of engagement members is coupled to the headband and the strap. The pair of engagement members is selectively engageable to secure the headband around a user's head. An insert is selectively positioned within the headband through the band top edge between the band front side and the band back side. The insert has an insert front side and an insert back side. A pair of temple pads is coupled to the insert. Each temple pad is coupled to the insert back side and aligns with the user's temples while the headband is worn.

Abstract: A light detection device includes a light projector, a light receiver, a detector, and a controller. The light projector projects light to a predetermined range. The light receiver has a light receiving region in which light is received. The detector detects light by comparing a light reception result by the light receiver with a predetermined threshold. The controller controls the threshold. The controller shifts in turn a range where light is projected from the light projector. The controller, causes the detector to detect light per a portion of the light receiving region, the portion corresponding to a range with light being projected from the light projector, and sets the threshold based on a light reception result by the light receiver in a different portion of the light receiving region from the portion corresponding to the range with light being projected.

Abstract: A body part positioning table or table overlay includes a planar surface to support a body part. The table or table overlay further includes a first mask mounting system having a first configuration for mounting a first mask that positions and secures the body part relative to the planar surface, and a second mask mounting system having a second configuration for mounting a second mask to position and secure the body part relative to the planar surface.

Abstract: A method for fabricating a custom cranial remodeling device for correction of cranial deformities in a subject is described. The method comprises generating a three-dimensional head data file for the subject. Predetermined reference points are identified on the head. The predetermined reference points are utilized to calculate contour lines on the head. A modified head shape data file is generated and juxtaposed with the head represented by the three-dimensional head data file having the contour lines thereon. The modified head shape data file is used to generate a shape for a desired custom cranial remodeling device, the shape having an interior surface to contact the head and an outer surface The contour lines establish peripheral edges for the custom cranial remodeling device.

Abstract: An improved head/neck support device has a disc base that is attached to a hollow tube that in turn receives a first cylindrical component that has a sleeve attached to its outside wall. The device further has a spring coil disposed in the gap between the first cylindrical component and a second cylindrical component, that has a lower portion that has a diameter equal to the spring coil's and a smaller diameter upper portion. The device also has a second hollow tube that engages with the second cylindrical component and constrains the second cylindrical component from sliding out and through the second tube. The device also has a horseshoe shaped elastic band attached to the outer wall of the second tube. The device further has a chin rest that has a third hollow tube, a disc, and a top pad.

Abstract: In accordance with invention an application device for nasal splints is created, comprising at least one hollow body for accommodating a nasal splint, and a plunger which can be moved within the hollow body, wherein one end face of the hollow body is open so that a nasal splint contained in the hollow body can be introduced through a movement of the plunger from the hollow body through the open end face into the nose of a patient.

Abstract: An anatomy-specific implant for neuroplastic surgery. The implant includes a soft tissue implant component designed within and adapted to replace or restore missing soft tissue in a skull, joint or spine of the patient, wherein the soft tissue implant component is adapted to be coupled by an interdigitated connection to a rigid component. The rigid component can be a skull implant adapted to replace missing cranial or vertebral bone, or healthy cranial or vertebral bone, either of which can have downward extending catheters for medicinal brain or spinal cord infusion to help bypass the blood-brain barrier via multiphase flow. The soft tissue implant may include a functional component having neurotechnologies such as MRI-lucent pumps, Bluetooth connection systems, refillable diaphragms, remote imaging devices, wireless charging capabilities, and/or informative biosensors. The soft tissue implant component may be interchangeable with another soft tissue implant component in plug-and-play fashion.

Abstract: Halo vests and the construction methods thereof are provided. The halo vests are designed in unibody structures to minimize the number of components. A 3D scanner is utilized to scan a subject to obtain parameters for a modeling program, which help to construct an optimized halo vest for the subject by printing rather than assembling manually. The subject can easily put on the halo vest without miscellaneous steps.

Abstract: A personalized optimal head shape implementation system capable of deriving an optimal spline curve between head shape measurement data generated by scanning a head shape of a subject and optimal head shape data generated by applying a golden ratio of a Fibonacci sequence to the head shape measurement data and providing a customized optimal head shape mold for the subject based on the optimal spline curve.

Abstract: Disclosed herein are embodiments of adapters that can be used to translate and/or rotate the position of a delivery system, such as for use with a replacement mitral valve. The adapters can allow for three-dimensional motion of the delivery system, thus allow for precise positioning and movement of the delivery system during use by an operator.

Abstract: A neck rehabilitation apparatus is disclosed. The neck rehabilitation apparatus may include a ring-shaped neck piece including a plurality of slots formed through the neck piece, and a ring-shaped chest piece including a plurality of slots formed through the chest piece. The apparatus may include at least four adjustable support members. Each adjustable support member may include a first end configured to engage with at least one slot formed through the neck piece, a second end configured to engage with at least one slot formed through the chest piece, a telescoping member configured to be adjustably moved to a selected position, and a telescoping member locking mechanism configured to lock the telescoping member at the selected position. The neck rehabilitation apparatus may provide varying degrees of support during rehabilitation of head and/or neck muscles and vertebrae.

Abstract: Systems for dental/orthodontic treatment can include a cervical collar, a brace, a mount, and an upper support. The brace can extend from an anterior section of the cervical collar to the upper support, which can be positioned to engage a forehead of a dental/orthodontic treatment patient. The mount can be engaged to and positioned on the brace, and can be configured to receive one or more elastics extending from fixation points within the mouth of the patient.

Abstract: A method for fabricating a custom cranial remodeling device for correction of cranial deformities in a subject is described. The method comprises generating a three-dimensional head data file for the subject; identifying predetermined reference points on the head; automatically selective utilizing the predetermined reference points to calculate contour lines on the head; automatically generating a modified head shape data file; juxtaposing the modified head shape with the head represented by the three-dimensional head data file having the contour lines thereon; utilizing the modified head shape data file to generate a shape for a desired custom cranial remodeling device, the shape having an interior surface to contact the head and an outer surface; projecting lines outward from the contour lines to the outer surface; and utilizing the projected lines to establish cranial remodeling device contour lines for the custom cranial remodeling device.

Abstract: A brace and traction device and associated methods of operation. In one embodiment, the device incorporates a forwardly open head and jaw brace which is adjustably supported vertically above a forwardly collar member. The brace and the collar member are adapted such that the brace is able to mate with the collar member while still being able to rotate to the subject's left and right while remaining planar to the collar member. Adjustment may be accomplished for example manually or via an electronic motor controlled by a control mechanism and microprocessor. The microprocessor may be adapted to store information regarding a user's sessions, and facilitate communication with patient and physician personal devices, thus sending these data from recorded sessions. The processor element may also be adapted to implement therapy sessions based on physician-entered program specifications, or based on pre-programmed specifications.

Abstract: Apparatus provides point of service to manufacture a custom cranial remodeling device for correction of cranial deformity of a subject. The apparatus comprises capture apparatus disposed at a physical location for capturing three dimensional digital data of the head of the subject and generating a three-dimensional digital data file representative of the head and an additive manufacture device located at the physical location. The apparatus further comprises a processor that operates to process the three-dimensional digital data file to produce a device file comprising the shape for the custom cranial remodeling device. The processor provides the device file to the additive manufacture device. The said additive manufacture device operates to utilize the device file to manufacture the custom cranial remodeling device at the physical location.

Abstract: Apparatus is provided for point of service manufacture of custom headwear for a subject. The apparatus comprises capture apparatus disposed at a physical location for capturing three dimensional digital data of the head of the subject and generating a three-dimensional digital data file representative of said head; an additive manufacture device located at the physical location; and a processor. The processor operates to process the three-dimensional digital data file to produce a device file comprising the shape for the custom headwear and to provide the device file to the additive manufacture device. The additive manufacture device operates to utilize the device file to manufacture the custom headwear at the physical location.

Abstract: A method for fabricating a custom cranial remodeling device comprises generating a three-dimensional digital data file for the subject at a clinic by capturing a three-dimensional data file representative of the head of the infant by utilizing apparatus operating to capture three-dimensional data representative of the head. The apparatus is located at the clinic. The method further comprises utilizing a processor to process the three-dimensional digital data file to produce a device file comprising the shape for the custom cranial remodeling device and manufacturing the custom cranial remodeling device at the clinic by utilizing an additive manufacture device located at the clinic to operate with the three-dimensional digital data file.

Abstract: The disclosure describes assemblies for use during image-guided procedures and can include turret arms and/or longitudinally extending and laterally extending cooperating devices for holding surgical tools such as trajectory guides.

Abstract: A method for fabricating an article of headwear for a subject is provided. The method comprises: generating a three-dimensional digital data file for the subject at a clinic by capturing a three-dimensional data file representative of the head by utilizing apparatus located at the clinic operating to capture three-dimensional data representative of the head; utilizing a processor to process the three-dimensional digital data file to produce a device file comprising the shape for the article of headwear; and manufacturing the article of headwear at the clinic by utilizing an additive manufacture device located at the clinic to operate with the three-dimensional digital data file.

Abstract: Custom manufactured headwear for a subject's head includes an inner layer shaped to contact the head of the subject at predetermined areas. The inner layer is deposited by an additive manufacturing device. The headwear further includes an outer layer deposited by the additive manufacturing device. The inner layer and the outer layer are each formed by the additive manufacture device utilizing a device data file derived from a subject data file. The subject data file is representative of the shape of the head and the device data file determines the shape of the headwear.

Abstract: A facial alignment system that includes a first mask portion and a rear portion. The rear portion includes a tightening mechanism mounted thereon that includes first and second tightening members that extend from the rear portion to the mask portion. The first and second tightening members are configured to exert a tightening force on the first mask portion.

Abstract: A cervical collar device for applying a constant upward push force includes a flexible neck brace and a constant upward push force device. The flexible neck brace includes a top and a bottom with a height therebetween, and a first side and a second side with a length therebetween. The height and the length of the flexible neck brace is configured for placement around a neck of a user. The constant upward push force device is positioned inside said flexible neck brace. The constant upward push force is configured to provide a constant upward push force between said top and said bottom of said flexible neck brace.

Abstract: A force distribution apparatus and method are presented. Various embodiments of the disclosed apparatus include a plurality of layers configured and oriented to be deployed on a subject in a manner that disperses forces and lowers peak pressures experienced by the subject when resting on a surface, which tends to minimize risks of deformation and local ischemia. An innovative combination of novel construction methods and material selections produce an apparatus that possesses an inherent three-dimensional shape despite being built from essentially flat components, while also retaining an ability to effectively distribute forces and reduce pressures.

Abstract: An orthodontic/orthognathic device for correcting and changing tooth placements and bone structure, and a method of using orthodontic/orthognathic device for tooth movement, correcting syndromic conditions of the mouth and osteogenetic correction. The device may be used for maxillary distraction and expansion as well as mandibular separation and expansion. The device can be controlled by computer to direct tooth and bone placement.

Abstract: A force distribution apparatus and method are presented. Various embodiments of the disclosed apparatus include a plurality of layers configured and oriented to be deployed on a subject in a manner that disperses forces and lowers peak pressures experienced by the subject when resting on a surface, which tends to minimize risks of deformation and local ischemia. An innovative combination of novel construction methods and material selections produce an apparatus that possesses an inherent three-dimensional shape despite being built from essentially flat components, while also retaining an ability to effectively distribute forces and reduce pressures.

Abstract: The present invention relates generally to a home therapy system for aiding spinal cord decompression and for treating related health issues. More specifically, the present invention teaches a garment system combining an upper portion and lower portion. According to a preferred embodiment, the upper portion includes a head band and yoke for cervical vertebra disc decompression and for aiding in treating Obstructive Sleep Apnea by repositioning and opening up breathing airways. Further in accordance with a preferred embodiment, the lower portion includes vertical decompression straps attached to leg bands and extending over the shoulders for thoracic and lumbar disc decompression by arching the spinal column back and opening the vertebra.

Abstract: A force distribution apparatus and method are presented. Various embodiments of the disclosed apparatus include a plurality of layers configured and oriented to be deployed on a subject in a manner that disperses forces and lowers peak pressures experienced by the subject when resting on a surface, which tends to minimize risks of deformation and local ischemia. An innovative combination of novel construction methods and material selections produce an apparatus that possesses an inherent three-dimensional shape despite being built from essentially flat components, while also retaining an ability to effectively distribute forces and reduce pressures.

Abstract: A device for reducing traumatic brain injury comprises a first sensor, a first linkage element, and a processing element. The first sensor is coupled to a head component and configured to measure an acceleration of a user's head as a result of an impact on the head component and to generate corresponding first sensor measurements. The first linkage element is configured to connect the head component to a body component and is able to switch between a first state in which it is relatively flexible and a second state in which it is relatively rigid. The first linkage element is switched from its first state to its second state by a locking signal. The processing element is configured to receive the first sensor measurements and to generate the locking signal when a value of the first sensor measurements is greater than or equal to an injury level.

Abstract: A headliner is provided for controlling a temperature of a head of a patient. A cap is provided which fits securely over the head of the patient. A fluid pathway is routed through the cap with a fluid space adapted to receive heat transfer fluid therein and route the heat transfer fluid between an inlet and an outlet on the cap. The inlet and outlet are each coupled to a cooler for the heat transfer fluid and the heat transfer fluid is circulated through the cap and the cooler such that heat is drawn from the head of the patient. An air bladder is optionally provided outboard of the fluid space which is filled with pressurized gas to increase contact between the fluid space and the head of the patient. A neck brace is integrated with the cap portion of the headliner, particularly for treatment of head trauma.

Abstract: A computer for assisting in determining the strength of fixing a craniofacial surgery patch comprises a storage device for storing a medical image and a central processing unit, the central processing unit carry out a method for assisting in determining the strength of fixing a craniofacial surgery patch. The method includes obtaining a medical image; establishing a skull model according to the medical image; receiving a patch setting command, and disposing a patch model on the skull model according to the patch setting command; generating an internal grid mesh data of the skull model disposed with the patch model; executing a biomechanical simulation of a patch structural strength according to the skull model disposed with the patch model, the internal grid mesh data and a boundary condition; and providing a stress distribution, a strain distribution or a displacement distribution of the patch model to assist in determining.

Abstract: In one embodiment, an apparatus may include an optical fiber that may have a surface non-normal to a longitudinal axis of a distal end portion of the optical fiber. The surface may define a portion of an interface configured to redirect electromagnetic radiation propagated from within the optical fiber and incident on the interface to a direction offset from the longitudinal axis. The apparatus may also include a doped silica cap that may be fused to the optical fiber such that the surface of the optical fiber may be disposed within a cavity defined by the doped silica cap.

Abstract: Provided is a septal splint to promote healing and alignment of a user's septum, and a method thereof. The septal splint includes an alignment member including a plurality of bilateral support pads to contact left and right sides of the user's septum, and a plurality of medializing support floor pads to rest on a bottom portion of each of the user's nasal passages. The septal splint also includes a pressing member, including a plurality of pressure applicators to transfer a predetermined amount of pressure to the bilateral support pads such that an alignment of the user's septum, maxillary crest, and fibrous tissue therebetween, is maintained, and a fulcrum end to supply the predetermined pressure to the plurality of pressure applicators. The septal splint promotes healing and alignment of a user's septum by providing moderate pressure at a junction point of the patient's maxillary crest, septum base, and fibrous tissue therebetween.

Abstract: A system and method for correcting misshaped ears using a molding device having one or more braces supporting a scaphal mold. The one or more braces and the scaphal mold are adapted to retain the helix and the helical rim of a misshaped ear within a space defined between the one or more braces and the scaphal mold, and to maintain a substantially correct anatomical shape of the helix and the helical rim.

Abstract: A locking apparatus for use with a head fixation device allows for a stabilizing fixture, such as a rocker arm having a pair of skull pins, to be selectively secured so that the stabilizing fixture can be adjustably rotated to a desired position. In some version the locking apparatus includes a connector that is retained within an opening in a portion of the head fixation device. The connector can translate within the opening and is restricted from rotation. The translating of the connector permits the connector to engage an arch member that retains the stabilizing fixture. The engagement of the connector and arch member is accomplished, in some versions, by way of matching axial oriented toothed portions or starburst features. In some versions the teeth on the starburst features include a chamfer surface.

Abstract: In an embodiment, a device for reducing brain and cervical spine injury includes a headpiece sufficiently designed to secure to a user's head, the headpiece having a first attachment member; a support harness sufficiently designed to secure to the user's torso, the support harness having a second attachment member; and a telescoping member having a main tube and a series of progressively smaller diameter tubes nested within each other, wherein the smaller diameter tubes are adapted to extend and compress in a linear plane by the intake and outflow of fluid, wherein the telescoping member has a first engaging member for engaging the first attachment member, and wherein the telescoping member has a second engaging member for engaging the second attachment member.

Abstract: An article of headwear to treat an infant's persistently maintained head position with respect to rotation about the cranial-caudal (head to toe) axis, seen in conditions such as plagiocephaly (baby flat head) and torticollis (wry neck). The headwear both permits and encourages an infant with a preferred head position to volitionally turn his or her head in several positions thereby promoting head and neck rotation and development of a naturally shaped cranium, thus treating or preventing torticollis and plagiocephaly respectfully. The infant headwear generally includes a head receiving member and positioning guide member. The head receiving member is placed on the infant's head and allows strategic placement of the positioning guide member. The positioning guide member increases the ability of the infant with a flat region to turn his or her head by re-establishing a round contour, and selectively increases cutaneous pressure in order to balance the variables influencing the infant's preferred head position.

Abstract: The present invention is a simple, adaptable orthotic device that can correct and/or prevent deformational posterior plagiocephaly, especially if used before the infant is 4 months of age. The manufactured article provides an anatomically correcting, adjustable, concave-shaped resting surface for an infant's head in a manner that effectively eliminates uneven pressure on the infant's occiput. The orthotic device has a modular design which permits easy adjustments of the devices' head cavity to accommodate differences in individual infant head size and shape, thereby providing the infant's head with a custom fit. Also, as the infant continues to grow in size, the adjustable head cavity and torso recess features of the orthotic device allow the contoured spatial volume and dimensions of the molded supporting surfaces to expand as the infant's calvaria grow; and thereby facilitate a progressive, normalization and rounding of the infant's occiput.

Abstract: A device for prevention of snoring in the form of a neck collar (1) with a middle section (2) for placement under the chin of a user, side sections (3, 4) connecting to said middle section and end parts (5, 6), optionally connectable to each other, consisting of a core of foam plastic contained in a covering. The foam plastic is a soft foam plastic, an opening (7) is formed in said middle section (2) and resilient means (14; 15; 27; 28) for adjustment of the height of the opening (7) and thereby the height of the middle section (2) are arranged in said opening (7).

Abstract: A method for producing a cranial remodeling device to correct for cranial shape abnormalities is described. One method comprises the steps of: providing cranial remodeling device trim line information; forming device material onto a three-dimensional model of a desired head shape; providing a machine responsive to said trim line information to move a spindle in a plurality of axes over the device material; providing a marking tool carried by the spindle; and operating the machine in response to the trim line information such that the machine moves the marking tool into surface engagement with the device material such that trim lines for the cranial remodeling device are marked onto the device material.

Abstract: An immobilization device including an anterior component including a two-dimensional shaped section contoured to a shape of the human chest and an anterior outwardly bowed area relative to the two-dimensional shaped anterior section generally corresponding to the sternum of the wearer. The device also includes a posterior component including a two-dimensional shaped section contoured to a shape of the human back and a posterior outwardly bowed area relative to the two-dimensional shaped section corresponding to the spinal column of the wearer, with elongate cushion elements connected to and extending within a width of the posterior outwardly bowed area. A strapping system connects both the anterior and posterior components to one another.

Abstract: In one aspect, an apparatus for correcting osseous development deficiencies at orbital level in persons includes a halo-like structure for fixing to a cranium, a union plate between the halo-like structure and the distractor, and the orbital distractor itself, which is supported by the halo-like structure and fixed to the orbit.

Abstract: The relational motion detection system measures relative motion of a head of a subject relative to a torso of a subject. The system includes a first motion detection sensor on a first apparatus configured to be secured to a head of a subject to detect a first motion. It also includes a second motion detection sensor on a second apparatus configured to be secured to the torso of a subject to detect a second motion. The system further includes a control unit configured to obtain information regarding the first motion from the first motion detection sensor and second motion from the second motion detection sensor, wherein the control unit contains instructions for calculating motion of the head relative to the torso of the subject based on the obtained first motion and second motion.

Abstract: A stand for supporting an object, for example a human cranium, includes a base, rods, and a pivotal joint. The base contains a plurality of stabilizers, a plurality of mounting blocks, and a means for connecting said stabilizers to said mounting blocks. The rods connect to the base at one end and contact the supported object at the other end. The rods are bound together by a fastener at a point between the base and the supported object.

Abstract: The training system comprises a base assembly, an upright extension, a chin support member, and a putter. In use, the training system positions the user's overall-body prior to and throughout the execution of a putt, and teaches proper putting technique, thus improving the user's putting accuracy. The chin support engages the chin of the user, preventing movement of the user's head.