Abstract: A system and method for providing a universal wrap that can apply a thermal pack to many different regions of a patient's body. The universal wrap is provided in a standardized form. The medical provider is provided with options to modify the standardized form in order to adapt the wrap to many different applications.

Abstract: A compression device for applying controllable compression to a portion of the anatomy of a user, includes a body, at least one memory wire embedded in the body and configured to contract in length upon application of a current so as to reduce an effective length of the body and apply a compressive force to the portion of the anatomy of the user, and a controller configured to selectively apply current to the memory wires to contract the memory wires and reduce the effective length of the body. The controller includes a circuit board supported by the body and a microcontroller mounted to the circuit board, the microcontroller programmed to actuate the memory wires according to a compression protocol stored in a memory associated with the microcontroller. Each memory wire has a first end fixedly connected to the circuit board and a second end fixed relative to the body.

Abstract: Embodiments of delivering reduced pressure wound therapy are disclosed. In some embodiments, a system includes a reduced pressure wound therapy device and a remote computer. The device can be configured to apply reduced pressure to a wound of a patient according to a default reduced pressure therapy prescription. The device can be configured to monitor usage data and transmit the usage data to the remove computer for determining compliance with a reduced therapy prescription. In some cases, non-compliance can be determined due to change of the prescription from the default prescription to a prescription more suitable for treating the wound. A non-compliance notification can be transmitted to the device. The device settings can be updated to the current prescription.

Abstract: Wearable heat transfer devices and associated systems and methods are disclosed herein. In some embodiments, a representative heat transfer device can comprise (i) thermoelectric components each having a first side and a second side, (ii) a heat transfer system having a heat exchanger and an array of fluid distribution networks, in which individual fluid distribution networks are thermally coupled to the second side of a corresponding one of the thermoelectric components and fluidically coupled to the heat exchanger, and (iii) a flexible support unit coupled to the first sides of the thermoelectric components and extending at least between individual thermoelectric components, wherein the flexible support unit is a heat spreader configured to enhance heat transfer from a target area.

Abstract: A massage tool that provides direct therapeutic pressure to the ventral rami and femoral nerves, and/or the psoas and iliacus muscles is disclosed. The tool includes upward pointing blades that may be properly aligned with the nerves and/or muscles to gently lengthen the nerves and relax the muscles. This in turn may lessen pressure to associated joints and bones thereby providing relief to chronic back and/or leg pain.

Abstract: An electrically-heatable plaster that comprises a self-adhesive skin contact layer, an electrically-conductive textile fabric in which electrically-conductive fibres are in contact with one another, as a heating element, and optionally at least one active substance, as well as to a method for production and the use of same for local heat therapy and/or transdermal application of active substances.

Abstract: A radiant energy bandage assembly is disclosed. According to an exemplary embodiment, the radiant energy bandage assembly comprises an encased flexible PCBA (Printed Circuit Board Assembly) including a plurality of radiant lamps and a plurality of apertures aligned with the plurality of radiant lamps. A control pod docking interface operatively connected to the flexible PCBA provides an interface to operatively connect a user control pod to control a dosage of radiant energy to a user treatment area.

Abstract: The present invention relates to an adhesive sheet for cooling which preferably maintains a cooling effect utilizing the heat of vaporization of water and can exert a persistent high cooling effect. The adhesive sheet for cooling a hydrous polymer gel (A) and a fiber sheet (B) laminated thereon: the hydrous polymer gel (A) having a moisture content of 65% by mass or more and 95% by mass or less, the fiber sheet (B) having a thickness of 0.001 mm or more and 1 mm or less, a basis weight of 3 g/m2 or more and 70 g/m2 or less, and a water absorbency test value of from 1 to 16,000 seconds; wherein the adhesive sheet has an amount of moisture of 585 g/m2 or more and 1,700 g/m2 or less.

Abstract: An apparatus for the treatment of arthrofibrosis, has a base having first and second opposing ends and a hole or recess adjacent the first end for enabling connection of the base to a chair to restrict movement of the base relative to the chair. A block is removably attached to the base and is movable between the first and second ends for abutting the toes of a foot of a user of the apparatus placed between the block and the hole or recess. The block is slidable along a guide on the base for enabling adjustment of the block between the first and second ends of the base. A clamp clamps the block in position on the base.

Abstract: A system to deliver current to an area of interest of a subject is described that includes a power source, a controller electrically coupled to the power source, at least one first electrode electrically coupled to the controller, and at least one second electrode electrically coupled to one of the power source and the controller, with the area of interest positioned between the at least one first electrode and the at least one second electrode. A method of stimulating at least one of bone growth, tissue healing and pain control within an area of interest of a patient is described that includes inserting first and second electrode spaced at a predetermined distance, and further includes directing an electric current between the first and second electrodes so that at least a portion of the electric current passes through the area of interest positioned between the first electrode and the second electrode.

Abstract: A heating tape and heating pad. In a most general embodiment, the inventive tape includes a first layer of thermally conductive material; a second layer of thermal insulation; and a third layer of exothermic material, sandwiched between the first and second layers. The third layer is constructed with reactants effective to cause an exothermic chemical reaction. In a first embodiment, the invention provides a beverage heating device. In a second embodiment, the invention provides a pipe heating device. The heating pad is implemented with a first layer of thermally conductive material; a second layer of material providing a base; and a third layer of exothermic material, sandwiched between the first and second layers. In the illustrative embodiment, the third layer has a contour effective to create suction whereby the pad adheres to a surface to be heated.

Abstract: Systems and methods provide air or gas-based temperature-controlled medical devices. The systems and methods may be applied to provide therapy to a patient suffering orthopedic or other injuries. Air or other gas is temperature-controlled and adjusted to meet a patient's physical needs and delivered the patient therapy site through a temperature regulated system including a therapeutic orthopedic wrap. Feedback mechanisms allow the caregiver or the patient to adjust the temperature of the gas. Other fluids may also be used. The systems and methods permit use of electrotherapy for enhanced therapy and injury recovery.

Abstract: A mechanical wound therapy (MWT) system includes a connection for a vacuum source, which is routed through an airtight covering to a porous material positioned over the wound. The porous material may be a tubing network interspaced by a netting material constructed of biologically inert or bioabsorbable material. Alternatively, the porous material may be a layered unified dressing in which layers of mesh, netting or thin perforated film are separated and fixedly attached to functional elements of the dressing (e.g., irrigation tubing) or spacers. The vacuum and irrigation systems may be completely separated. An airtight sealing layer or foldable adhesive sealing layer may seal the dressing and facilitate sealing the dressing to the wound margins. Additional modular devices such as a wound approximating system, positive pressure bladders and adjuvant therapy modules as well as enhanced monitoring technology can be added to synergistically increase the capabilities of each dressing.

Abstract: A blood flow restricting apparatus is provided. The blood flow restricting apparatus can include a frame element configured to be securable to a user's head. At least one cooling pad can be operatively arranged with the adjustable frame element and configured to be arranged over a defined anatomic location including at least one of a pair of supratrochlear arteries, a pair of supraorbital arteries, a pair of temporal arteries, and a pair of occipital arteries of the user's head when the frame element is secured to the user's head. A pressurizing mechanism can be operatively arranged with the at least one cooling pad and capable of pressing the at least one cooling pad against the defined anatomic location to restrict blood flow to each of the targeted arteries while simultaneously cooling the defined anatomic location to induce hypothermic induced vasoconstriction.

Abstract: An ankle brace is provided, including a main body. The main body has a base portion and an abutting portion for abutting against an ankle, the base portion has at least one first guiding slot, the at least one first guiding slot is arranged next to the abutting portion, the abutting portion has a bottom portion, a circumferential side portion which surrounds and is connected to and between the bottom portion and the base portion and at least one second guiding slot, the bottom portion has a receiving space for receiving a part of the ankle, the circumferential side portion projects above a slot bottom of the first guiding slot, and the at least one second guiding slot is arranged on the bottom portion and penetrates the circumferential side portion and communicated with the at least one of the first guiding slots.

Abstract: A method and device for increasing microcirculation in the lower limb are described. The device includes a means for immobilizing the limb, for example a plaster cast, and an electrical stimulation device, which applies electrical stimulation to opposed leg muscles such that antagonistic and agonistic muscle groups contract near simultaneously, resulting in near isometric contraction. The combination of this contraction and the leg restraint have been found to markedly increase blood circulation and in particular microcirculation in the limb.

Abstract: A flexible adhesive kinesiology/physio tape of the present invention adapted adapted to provide thermo-dynamic cooling. In a most general embodiment, the inventive tape includes flexible adhesive kinesiology or physio tape with thermal cooling properties including: a first layer of flexible adhesive high quality porous fabric; a second layer of flexible self-adhesive or skin adhesive high quality porous fabric; and a third layer of flexible endothermic material, sandwiched between the first and second layers. In the illustrative embodiment, the tape is a sheet of high quality porous fabric with a blend of cotton, latex or nylon and the third layer is constructed with reactants effective to cause an endothermic chemical reaction. A breakable barrier separates the reactants so cooling can be initiated at any point by manually breaking the barrier. The third layer can be implemented with liquid, with sealed borders, or with solid reactants that could be saturated or interwoven with reactants.

Abstract: A wound dressing in the form of a bag enclosing fly maggots, having a porous wall made from plastic, the wall having a membrane made from an open cell polyurethane foam, the pore diameter of which is approximately 0.1 mm to approximately 1 mm.

Abstract: Provided are devices for therapeutic interaction with an Abreu brain thermal tunnel (ABTT) terminus. Such devices are configured to provide one or more drugs to an ABTT terminus, and may provide heat to or remove heat from the ABTT terminus while providing the one or more drugs.

Abstract: A wound dressing, a method of manufacturing a wound dressing, and a method of treating a patient are disclosed. The wound dressing may include an absorbent layer for absorbing wound exudate; and an obscuring element for at least partially obscuring a view of wound exudate absorbed by the absorbent layer in use.

Abstract: Provided is a patch able to produce micro-current to be applied on human skin including a support for electrodes spaced from each other and apt to create voltages typical of galvanic piles, connection means between the electrodes, an adhesive layer applied on one side of the support and apt to adhere to the skin and a protection liner applied on the adhesive layer, the support being a membrane permeable to the moisture inside the electrodes, and the connection means being defined by a material that is avid of moisture, such as silica impregnating the membrane.

Abstract: An intrauterine contraceptive device may include a frame made completely or partially of a first metal having a first galvanic potential and at least one metallic member coupled with the frame that is made of a second metal having a second galvanic potential different from the first galvanic potential. In some embodiments, the first galvanic potential may be more anodic than the second galvanic potential. In alternative embodiments, the first galvanic potential may be more cathodic than the second galvanic potential. In one embodiment, the first metal is Nitinol, and the second metal is copper. In some embodiments, the first and second galvanic potentials may be configured to achieve, at least approximately, a desired copper ion elution rate for the intrauterine device.

Abstract: A system and method for portably delivering a therapeutic dose of heat to the skin to relieve pain, reduce accommodation of thermal nerve receptors, promote healing, and deliver transcutaneous medications. The heating device is user programmable or preprogrammed to deliver according to a variety of cycles, patterns and algorithms. The cycles, patterns, and algorithms of the heat are programmable parameters, are under the user's control, and increase the effectiveness and efficiency of the device. The heating algorithms are designed to interact with an individual user's thermal nerve receptors and other tissue characteristics and to reduce the tendency of the receptors to accommodate to the external stimuli with back pain, muscular pain, dysmenorrhea, headaches, fibromyalgia, post-herpetic neuralgia, nerve injuries and neuropathies, and sprains and strain.

Abstract: Disclosed are systems for wireless energy transfer including transcutaneous energy transfer. Embodiments are disclosed for user interface (UI) hubs to connect multiple batteries and to output system information to a patient. Embodiments are further disclosed for garments and devices to be worn by a patient requiring treatment. The garments are configured for a desired placement of a transmitter coil relative to a body of the patient and for facilitating patient comfort and quality of life. Methods for manufacturing and using the devices and the systems are also disclosed.

Abstract: The proposed device includes two segments adapted to enclose a body part in a form-fitting manner. Each segment contains an electroactive-material-based actuator, which is adapted to receive an electrical control signal and in response thereto adjust the actuator's morphology, so as to cause the segment to apply a basic pressure profile to the body part. A pressure transition is adapted to redistribute the basic pressure profiles between the first and second segments. A control signal in respect of the first segment causes the pressure transition system to apply a first adjusted pressure profile to at least part of the second portion of the body part, and vice versa, a control signal in respect of the second segment causes the pressure transition system to apply a second adjusted pressure profile to at least a part of the first portion of the body part.

Abstract: A seat for a vehicle is provided includes a padding member and at least one phase change material element supported in a passage formed within the padding member. The at least one phase change material element is supported in the passage so as to be movable between a first location in which the at least one phase change material element is spaced apart from an occupant support side of the padding member when the seat is unoccupied, and a second location in which at least a portion of the at least one phase change material element is at least level with the occupant support side of the at least one padding member when the seat is unoccupied. The at least one phase change material element is structured to absorb heat from a vehicle occupant, thereby cooling the occupant.

Abstract: A medical device includes an orthopedic fixation device and an electromagnetic field emitter carried by the fixation device. The device preferably further includes a power source for powering the electromagnetic field emitter, which may be implanted in the human body with the fixation device and the electromagnetic field emitter. The power source may be a battery.

Abstract: A control unit for a dressing for treating damaged tissue via a pair of electrodes. An electric current passes between the electrodes through the gel to repair the damaged tissue. Sensors can be incorporated into the dressing along with a control unit. The control unit can vary current supplied to the electrodes. One or more pre-defined programs can be stored in the control unit for supplying an alternating current to the electrodes with a varying amplitude, frequency and waveform.

Abstract: Devices, bandages, kits and methods are described that can control or regulate the mechanical environment of a wound to ameliorate scar and/or keloid formation. The mechanical environment of a wound includes stress, strain, and any combination of stress and strain. The control of a wound's mechanical environment can be active, passive, dynamic, or static. The devices are configured to be removably secured to a skin surface in proximity to the wound site and shield the wound from endogenous and/or exogenous stress.

Abstract: An orthopedic brace for preventing injury to a wearer including a body having a series of liquid filled regions, the body having a first more flexible state wherein the liquid filled regions contain a liquid material and a second more rigid state wherein the liquid within the regions is hardened to a second harder state, the body transformable from the first state to the second state upon receiving a force which exceeds a predetermined value. A chemical reaction or an isothermal process can cause the phase change.

Abstract: A compression device (100) configured to provide compression therapy is provided. The compression device includes a wrap (101) having an outer face (105) defining a proximal edge (106), a distal edge (107), a first side edge (108), and a second side edge (109). The second side edge may include a plurality of attachment tabs (110,111,112). An index line (113) can be disposed on at least one of the plurality of attachment tabs. A measurement scale (114) can be disposed along the outer face. The measurement scale can include longitudinal boundaries (115,116) identifying a range within which the index line should position for the compression device to provide an appropriate fit for compression therapy when the compression device is wrapped about a patient's limb.

Abstract: A system for wound treatment includes adjunctive wound therapy devices and substrates comprising multiple first reservoirs and multiple second reservoirs. Selected ones of the multiple first reservoirs include a reducing agent, and first reservoir surfaces of selected ones of the multiple first reservoirs are proximate to a first substrate surface. Selected ones of the multiple second reservoirs include an oxidizing agent, and second reservoir surfaces of selected ones of the multiple second reservoirs are proximate to the first substrate surface.

Abstract: A compression wrap for providing pressure to an injured portion of a joint of a limb is provided. The compression wrap includes flexible body that includes a pressure application portion for applying pressure to the limb of user and a strap portion. The strap portion is connected to the pressure application portion and adjustably secures the compression wrap to the limb. A strap attachment is attached to the flexible body having a first portion that releasably engages the flexible body when the compression wrap is in a large configuration and a second portion that releasably engages the flexible body when the compression wrap is in a small configuration.

Abstract: A system for use in stimulating at least one of bone growth, tissue healing and pain control in a patient includes a first screw and a second screw. The first screw has an elongate shaft with opposite ends and a length extending between the ends, an exterior surface and a screw thread formed on the exterior surface of the shaft and extending along at least a portion of the length. The screw thread has an electrically conducting portion and an electrically insulating portion. The electrically conducting portion is located for deposition in a first pre-specified portion of the patient and the electrically insulating portion is located for deposition in a second pre-specified portion of the patient. An electrical power source is adapted to pass electrical current through the patient between the first and second screws. The electrical power source is operatively connected to the first screw for conveying current through the electrically conducting portion of the screw thread to the first pre-specified portion.

Abstract: Adjustable covers, systems, and methods are presented that include an adjustable cover that may be adjusted to an appropriate size by hand without requiring cutting tools and without substantial leaks. In one instance, the adjustable covering includes a drape member with a plurality of non-leaking tear paths. Each non-leaking tear path includes a weakened path of the drape member that may be torn. The adjustable covering may further include a first plurality of tear starters formed on a first initiation edge of the drape member. Each tear starter of the first plurality of tear starters is aligned with one of the plurality of tear paths. Each of the first plurality of tear starters is adapted to facilitate the initiation of a tear along a tear path. The grains of the drape member, a backing layer, and support layer may also be in the same direction. Other adjustable covers, systems, and methods are presented.

Abstract: The technology disclosed herein pertains to wound healing electrodes and devices. The technology disclosed herein also pertains to electrode sets for electrically induced wound healing that can be adjusted to the wound size.

Abstract: An electrically conductive structure includes a plurality of carbon fiber layers and at least one electrically conductive filament three-dimensionally woven among the carbon fiber layers. The plurality of carbon fiber layers and the at least one electrically conductive filament are operable to conduct electrical current throughout the structure.

Abstract: Systems, methods, and dressings for treating a linear wound, such as an incision, on a patient are presented. The systems, dressings, and methods include a sealing ring that helps form a fluid seal around the linear wound. In one instance, a sealing material is extruded around the linear wound to help form a seal. In another instance, a sealing ring is coupled to a lower portion of a dressing bolster to form a seal. Other systems, methods, and apparatuses are disclosed.

Abstract: A wearable device having feedback characteristics including a compliant article arranged to extend over an anatomical portion of a wearer and for providing a user with information regarding range of motion parameters of a joint and/or to condition users to maintain proper joint orientations. Sensors provided with the wearable device detect the orientation of the joint and send signals to a processor for analysis. When the processor determines that the joint is outside of predefined range of motion parameters or in an unsafe or potentially injurious configuration, a feedback or response mechanism is activated to alert the user to such a condition or to provide substantially rigid structural support to the joint. The sensors, processor, and feedback mechanisms can be provided in a monitoring and control package along a side of the compliant article.

Abstract: Systems, devices and methods for treating a targeted body tissue (e.g., bone, soft tissue, muscle, ligaments, etc.) by stimulating the body tissue with an electric current are described herein. In one embodiment, an apparatus includes a first orthosis member that includes a first electrode. The first orthosis member is configured to be disposed about a first portion of a limb of a user of the apparatus such that the first electrode is in contact with the first portion of the limb. The apparatus includes a second orthosis member that includes a second electrode. The second orthosis member is configured to be disposed about a second portion of the limb such that the second electrode is in contact with the second portion of the limb. A connector is configured to couple the second orthosis member to the first orthosis member and the connector has a selectively adjustable length.

Abstract: A method for promoting contraception by placing a contraceptive device within a uterus without blocking fallopian tubes may involve advancing a distal end of a delivery device through a cervix, advancing the contraceptive device comprising an elongate shape memory member out of the distal end of the delivery device and into the uterus, and limiting inferior migration of the contraceptive device within the uterus. Inferior migration may be limited by allowing the contraceptive device to assume a shape, when subjected to pressure that tends to cause a downward migration of the device within the uterus, in which an expandable middle portion of the device is expanded to contact the inner wall of the uterus and thus limit the downward migration of the device.

Abstract: An implantable apparatus and method are provided for use in conjunction with an implantable neurostimulation signal generator that provides an electrical stimulation signal to an active electrode. In auditory stimulation applications, the apparatus includes at least one anchor member having a distal end portion for directly contacting a patient's cranial bone and an electrically conductive portion extending from the distal end portion to a contact location proximal to the distal end portion. An electrical connection line may be electrically interconnected at a first end to the contact location of the anchor member and electrically interconnected at a second end to an implantable auditory neurostimulation signal generator to define a reference electrode. A bracket member may be mounted to a patient's cranial bone utilizing the anchor member, wherein an electrically conductive pathway extends from a first contact location to a second contact location of the bracket member.

Abstract: A neck brace comprises a frame, which includes a support section for supporting a user's lower jaw and a brace section for bracing the support section. The brace section comprises a sternum rest and a strut that joins the sternum rest to the remainder of the frame, and is shaped to avoid contact with the user's clavicle region.

Abstract: Apparatuses and methods for treating a wound by applying reduced or negative pressure to the wound can include a wound cover, a fluid collection container, a vacuum pump, an inflation pump, and one or more conduits. The wound cover can be configured to move between at least a relatively rigid, generally raised position and a relatively flexible, generally collapsed position according to a predetermined program or in response to input from a user or one of more sensors. In some embodiments, the wound cover can be configured to move between at least the relatively rigid, generally raised position and the relatively flexible, generally collapsed position by adjusting the air pressure in one or more channels in the wound cover or by adjusting or by adjusting the length of piezoelectric or other length changing material supported by the wound cover.

Abstract: The invention relates to a retractable and adjustable heating brace. Primarily, a main body is provided with a tie portion, retractable portions and assembly portions. A heating piece is disposed within the tie portion, and the assembly portion is provided with a temperature controller. Furthermore, a first conductive wire is connected to the heating piece at one end thereof and to the temperature controller at the other end thereof by extending through the first, second and third spaces, wherein the length of the first conductive wire located in the retractable portion is larger than the length of the retractable portion. Thereby when the user ties the main body around his or her waist by pulling the retractable portion thereof, the length of the first conductive wire can be stretched appropriately according to the stretch of the retractable portion. Accordingly, it can prevent the first conductive wire from break or damage.

Abstract: A system for treating arthritis includes at least one joint stabilizing assembly for providing relief from arthritis. At least one signal transmission element engagement member is operatively connected to the joint stabilizing assembly for connecting a signal transmission element. At least one signal transmission element is supported by the at least one signal transmission element engagement member. An electrostimulation unit, electrically connected to the signal transmission element produces a signal for improving the overall function of an arthritic joint. The electrostimulation unit used in conjunction with the joint stabilizing assembly provides a synergistic effect, which results in optimized joint treatment versus using either the joint stabilizing assembly or electrostimulation unit alone.

Abstract: The present invention relates to wound dressings having a wound contacting layer that contains a wound healing composition and which is adapted to maintain a temperature different from ambient, for example achieve and maintain a heat-absorbing effect on the underlying tissues. The specific physico-chemical structure of the devices of the invention allows fluid containment and absorption of wound secretions while avoiding skin macerations.

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 method, and apparatus for the controlled acceleration, and/or retardation of the body's inflammatory response generally comprises a foam pad for insertion substantially into a wound site, a heating, a cooling pad for application over the wound site, a wound drape or sealing enclosure of the foam pad, the heating, and cooling pad at wound site. The foam pad is placed in fluid communication with a vacuum source for promotion of the controlled acceleration or retardation of the body's inflammatory response. The heating, and cooling provision controls the local metabolic function as part of the inflammatory response.

Abstract: A reconfigurable knee brace which is particularly suitable for cold therapy. The brace includes a large wrap which fits over the front of the leg and wraps around the knee. Two or more securing straps are provided to hold the wrap in place. Once in position, an internal air bladder can be inflated to secure the fit. The user inflates the air bladder using an included squeeze pump and selectively deflates the bladder using a release button. One or more removable stays are positioned on the left and right lateral sides of the knee. When the stays are in position, the knee is held in place and cannot flex or extend. However, the stays are made removable. Once the stays are removed, the knee is able to flex and extend (though it is still stabilized by the encircling wrap).