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 plastic sheath dimensioned to fit securely and snugly around an arm or leg cast or bandage of a wearer includes a flexible elastic band at an open end constructed with at least one expandable trough encircling the sheath, with a rubberized band looped within the trough, and with the rubberized band being rollable forwardly from the open end of the sheath towards an opposite sealed second end from trough to trough when it is desired to remove the sheath from being worn.

Abstract: This invention provides a line of decorative fabric sheathes to be easily applied over any hand, wrist, arm, foot or leg cast, providing the wearer a dramatic means of enhancing the appearance of the cast and cleverly hiding it from view. Produced from a variety of materials including sturdy cotton, fancy lace and soft suede to name a few options, the Design A Cast functions is a fitted sleeve, providing a snug, yet comfortable fit around the wearer's affected limb. As such, the Design A Cast is generally tubular in shape. The present invention can be rolled in a tight coil between uses and unrolled as it is pulled up and over the actual cast.

Abstract: The present invention generally relates to a shrinkable covering that can be used to enclose a cast, splint, bandage, injury, or other affected part of the body in order to protect it from water or other external elements.

Abstract: Cast and bandage protector that avoids use of a separate sealing ring and therefore can be folded over upon itself, has suitability for convenient packaging and at the same time still provides an effective waterproof sealing arrangement.

Abstract: The present invention comprises a cover for enclosing a cast on a user's arm and/or a user's leg. The cover is generally comprised of a sheath and a first ring. The sheath has a first end and a second end. Proximate to the first end of the sheath is a finger sheath and a thumb sheath. The second end of the sheath has a first ring configured to frictionally engage the arm of the user and a first opening. The sheath is rolled around the first ring for easily putting on or taking off the cover.

Abstract: A protective limb drape is provided that includes a polymer sheet surrounding an aperture and having attachments along a polymer sheet edge to facilitate suspension of said polymer sheet edge to facilitate suspension of the polymer sheet from a generally horizontal shower curtain rod. An elastomeric ribbon is attached to the sheet to at least partially cover the aperture to define a portal sized to allow the limb to traverse the polymer sheet through the aperture. A flap is attached to a first side of the sheet along a flap edge to overlie the portal. A protective limb drape is also provided as detailed above including a second flap attached to an opposing side of the polymeric sheet with positional overlap with the first flap. Additional apertures defined by the polymeric sheet and a duplicate elastomeric ribbon are also optionally provided such that a single inventive drape is able to accommodate either an arm or a leg traversing the polymeric sheet.

Abstract: A tissue treatment device suitable for use on an extremity, such as a hand or foot, includes a cover formed as a bag, sac, or pouch, and a support member disposable within the cover to support a portion of the cover off of, and out of contact with, tissue to be treated. The cover has an open end with attachment means disposed thereon for attachment to a limb whose extremity is received in the cover.

Abstract: The first protective sleeves are sized for fitting a foot cast. Each sleeve includes a bottom and top end. Each of the first protective sleeves also includes a uniform thickness, and a pad. A bottom end is closed and shelters the user foot. A second one of the first protective sleeves includes an ancillary extension and an elastic strap. A third one of the first protective sleeves includes a first and orifice. The second protective sleeves are sized for fitting over an arm cast. Each of the second protective sleeves has an open proximal end and a uniform thickness. One of the second protective sleeves includes a distal end provided with first and second orifices. A second of the second protective sleeves includes a glove. A third one of the second protective sleeves includes a glove with a plurality of spaced ducts, an ancillary extension, and an elastic strap.

Abstract: A method for stimulating new tissue growth is provided in which a limb is introduced into an interior portion of an outer cover. A porous component is applied to at least a portion of the limb within the outer cover. An opening through which the limb was introduced is sealed, and a negative pressure is applied to the interior portion to stimulate new tissue growth.

Abstract: A flexible protective cover for preventing fluid from entering an open epidermal site on a user, comprising: a central portion having at least one rib, an edge connected to the central portion at an angle, a lip disposed around the edge, a sealing member disposed over the lip for providing a sealing engagement between the lip and the open epidermal site, and at least one adjustable strap removably connected to the central portion. Also disclosed is a flexible protective cover having a central portion, an edge connected to the central portion at an angle, an inflatable sealing member integral with the edge for providing the sealing engagement, and at least one adjustable strap removably connected to the central portion.

Abstract: A re-rollable membrane for wrapping around and protecting a cylindrical tissue having an injury site. The membrane includes a sheet of a porous matrix formed of cross-linked biopolymeric fibers. In one implementation, the sheet can be spirally rolled so that at least one portion overlaps another portion of the sheet and, upon absorption of a fluid, the overlapping portions adhere to each other closely so as to exclude penetration of cells. In another implementation, the sheet can be helically rolled to form a helix having a pitch of 2 mm to 40 mm and an inner diameter of 1 mm to 50 mm. Also disclosed are methods for making and using such re-rollable membranes.

Abstract: A cover for preventing wetness or contamination of an intravenous site is disclosed. The cover is manufactured in a variety of sizes and can fit on any extremity of the human body.

Abstract: A bandage bag provides the dual functions of holding a medical apparatus to a patient for daily wear and of serving as a waterproof bandage, especially for a catheter and its insertion site. The bandage bag comprises a bag and two adhesive layers. The bag opens along a first edge. One adhesive layer is placed along the other three edges on the anterior side of the bag. The second adhesive layer is placed along the first edge on the posterior side of the bag. The bag is attached to a patient's arm near the insertion site using the second adhesive layer. The catheter tubing and port is placed in the bag. The bag is then folded over so the first adhesive layer on the anterior side faces the arm and covers the insertion site, forming a waterproof bandage for the insertion site and the medical apparatus.

Abstract: A method for preventing infection and maintaining aseptic epidermal areas by preventing contaminated fluid from entering an open epidermal site on a user, comprising the steps of: removably attaching at least one adjustable strap to a reusable non-deforming flexible protective cover comprising a sealing member, covering the open epidermal site with the reusable non-deforming flexible protective cover while maintaining a space between the reusable non-deforming flexible protective cover and the open epidermal site, and tightening the at least one adjustable strap to secure the reusable non-deforming flexible protective cove over the open epidermal site to create a fluid-tight seal between the sealing member and the open epidermal site, thereby preventing contaminated fluid from entering the open epidermal site.

Abstract: Cast and bandage protector that avoids use of a sealing ring and therefore can be folded over upon itself, has suitability for convenient packaging and at the same time still provides an effective waterproof sealing arrangement.

Abstract: A limb protection device and a method for applying the limb protection device to a user. The device comprises: an enclosure for enclosing the limb section; and at least one flexible cuff integral with and away from which the enclosure extends, the cuff defining an opening into the device and having a tapered profile arranged to allow, in use, the selection of an appropriately sized opening into the device, whereby the appropriately sized opening in the cuff is selected to stretch around and compress against that part of the user's limb extending therethrough in use, to prevent the ingress of matter into or egress of matter out of the device immediately at the device opening. The device may protect a section of a user's limb.

Abstract: The mechanical trauma protection device is an arching bar which covers over an open splint to protect and area from mechanical trauma. It can be fabricated from plastic, metal or other material. The arching bar attaches to a splint, brace or other device to prevent contact. It can be made integral to a splint such as a protective posture hand splint by forming the material into an arch which extends from the index finger ray to the wrist. This allows the use of the bar as a handle (preventing patient handling/contact injuries) and to serve as a frame for further barriers.

Abstract: A liquid-resistant protection for part of an extremity comprises a sleeve (1) of a waterproof polymer film, the sleeve (1) having an open end (2a). The liquid-resistant protection further comprises an adhesive layer (3) for sealing the sleeve (1) arranged on a section (3) of the outside of the sleeve (1) adjoining the open end (2a). A method of achieving a liquid-resistant protection around an extremity is demonstrated. A set of parts for forming a liquid-resistant protection for part of an extremity is furthermore demonstrated.

Abstract: The present invention provides a wound dressing capable of accelerating epidermal regeneration. The present invention relates to a wound dressing for accelerating epidermal regeneration which comprises a polypeptide (P) having at least one species of epidermal regeneration-accelerating minimal amino acid sequences (X) selected from the group consisting of the Arg Gly Asp sequence (1), the Ile Lys Val Ala Val sequence (2), and the Tyr Ile Gly Ser Arg sequence (3) and an auxiliary amino acid sequence (Y), a polyalkylenepolyamine and/or polyarylenepolyamine (A) having a weight average molecular weight of 2,000 to 60,000, and a sheet (S).

Abstract: A protective cover for a limb cast. The protective cover includes a first layer, a second layer, a first fastener, and a second fastener. The first layer has a first thickness, a first length approximating a length of the limb cast and defines a first portion of the protective cover. The second layer encapsulates the first layer and is coupled to the first layer, the second layer having a second thickness less than the first thickness, the second layer having a second length extending beyond the first length, a difference between the first length and the second length defining a second portion of the protective cover, the second portion extending beyond the length of the limb cast, the second layer including a first end and a second end. The first cooperating fastener is secured to the second layer and is positioned within the first portion to couple the first end and the second end of the second layer together.

Abstract: Cast covers, that allow someone who has a casted arm or leg, and has been authorized by a physician to resume playing a particular sport (e.g., football), to protect both the casted limb and other players from collision with the hard material in the cast, by covering the cast with a cushioning material. The cast covers are precast and premolded in different sizes and colors to meet individual needs and tastes. The cast cover has a generally tubular shape. Preferably, there are multiple layers of flexible but solid material, such as polyurethane foam, polyethylene foam, or ethylene vinyl acetate foam. In some embodiments, the tube is closed, except for openings at its ends. In other embodiments, there is a longitudinal opening running between the open ends of the tube, and the tube is secured on a casted limb by strips of hook and loop fasteners that traverse the longitudinal opening.

Abstract: Cast covers, that allow someone who has a casted arm or leg, and has been authorized by a physician to resume playing a particular sport (e.g., football), to protect both the casted limb and other players from collision with the hard material in the cast, by covering the cast with a cushioning material. The cast covers are precast and premolded in different sizes and colors to meet individual needs and tastes. The cast cover has a generally tubular shape. Preferably, a thick inner layer of polyurethane foam is covered by a thinner outer layer of polyethylene foam. In a first embodiment, the tube is closed, except for openings at its ends. In a second embodiment, there is a longitudinal opening running between the open ends of the tube, and the tube is secured on a casted limb by strips of hook and loop fasteners that traverse the longitudinal opening.

Abstract: A protective cover for a cast. Exemplary embodiments include a cover for a lower arm cast including an optional thumb cover. Exemplary embodiments may be constructed from resilient foam located within a protective shell, and the protective shell may include fasteners arranged to retain the cast cover around the cast. An exemplary thumb cover includes a plurality of pockets, each of which holds a thumb pad. The exemplary thumb cover may be installed on the cast prior to installing the cast cover, and the thumb cover may extend through an opening in the cast cover.

Abstract: A limb protector for protecting a limb of a wearer from contact with water or other contaminant has a tubular member made from ultrathin plastic film. The ultrathin film enables the material around the opening to form a watertight seal around the limb without forming a venous tourniquet.

Abstract: A removable protective covering is provided that can be secured about an external fixation device on the upper or lower extremity of a patient. The covering includes a fabric form that is sized and configured to accommodate varying sizes of external fixation devices and uses readily engageable/releasable closure elements or fasteners to securely engage the covering about the fixator and the extremity. A drawstring closure may be provided at the open ends of the covering to tighten the end about the patient's limb. Ventilation features may be provided including vents with and without additional devices to generate air flow through the covering. The covering for a lower extremity fixation device may be configured for removably attachment to a foot plate and the foot plate itself may be configured to support or attach to the fixation device.

Abstract: A prosthetic limb has an outer surface that is a mirror image of an intact limb. The intact limb is scanned and the surface data is manipulated to create a virtual mirror image. The end of the amputated limb is also scanned to obtain socket data. A virtual limb is designed using a computer program based upon the mirror image and end of the amputated limb data. The computer program is also used to design a removable fairing that provides color and texture to the prosthetic limb.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for aerating a fracture sight that employs a membrane or covering that wraps and seals the outside of a breathable, orthopedic cast and typically includes an array of spaced apart protrusions on an inside surface to facilitate generally even airflow, thereby providing comfort and/or improved hygiene for the patient when an air moving device is connected to the apparatus and the air moving device is powered on.

Abstract: There are disclosed systems and methods of creating airflow through a breathable orthopedic cast. In an embodiment, a ventilation system includes a covering having an opening for creating airflow therethrough with an air moving device, and a scaffold structure disposed between the covering and the cast so as to maintain airflow a distance from the opening of the covering. In an embodiment, a ventilation method includes placing a spacer and a covering on the cast to enclose an outside portion of the cast, and creating airflow through the opening and the cast enclosed by the covering. Other embodiments are also disclosed.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a waterproof limb protector for preventing moisture from in contact with an affected area of an injured limb. The waterproof limb protector comprises an elongated neoprene sheath with an open end for receiving the limb in need of protection, and an adjustable neoprene sealing strap with a fixed end attached adjacent to the open end of the sheath. The sealing strap further comprises a VELCRO® fastener with one fastener member attached to the distal free of the sealing strap and the other fastener member to the middle section of the sealing strap. The two fastener members are attached on the opposite side of the sealing strap. To secure the sheath to an injured limb, the sealing strap is wrapped around the circumference of the open end as such that the two VELCRO® fastener members are in contact to provide an effective but comfortable watertight seal around the open end.

Abstract: A device and method for alerting attending medical personnel of a patient's potential risk of injury due to unwanted blood pressure measurements, intravenous access and venipuncture includes placing a sleeve on the patient's affected arm or leg. The sleeve is formed of a latex free soft fabric which is stretchable to provide a snug, comfortable fit for a range of patient sizes. The sleeve is open at both ends to permit ease of placement and removal on the patient's arm or leg. The exterior surface of the sleeve has easily visible instructions to indicate that no blood pressure, I.V. or venipuncture is to be performed on the arm or leg which wears the sleeve.

Abstract: A bandage bag provides the dual functions of holding a medical apparatus to a patient for daily wear and of serving as a waterproof bandage, especially for a catheter and its insertion site. The bandage bag comprises a bag and two adhesive layers. The bag opens along a first edge. One adhesive layer is placed along the other three edges on the anterior side of the bag. The second adhesive layer is placed along the first edge on the posterior side of the bag. The bag is attached to a patient's arm near the insertion site using the second adhesive layer. The catheter tubing and port is placed in the bag. The bag is then folded over so the first adhesive layer on the anterior side faces the arm and covers the insertion site, forming a waterproof bandage for the insertion site and the medical apparatus.

Abstract: A protective covering for a plastering or other construction stilt is disclosed. The protective covering is formed as a cylindrical bag which attaches to the foot of the stilt at the bottom and to the calf of the wearer at the top. The protective covering prevents plaster, plaster dust, or other construction debris form contacting the stilt. The protective covering may also be attached to the base of the stilt. A flexible fabric material may be used for the protective covering.

Abstract: An immobilization apparatus incorporating a water permeable padding design that channels water away from the wearer and a method of preparing an immobilizing apparatus is described. In human or veterinary applications, the apparatus can be flushed with various solutions for cleansing of the limb beneath while avoiding the accumulation of excess moisture. The apparatus can be immersed in water then dried quickly in the open air. Subject invention allows for effective transfer of moisture away from the skin thereby avoiding skin maceration.

Abstract: Apparatus is described for stimulating healing of wounds, particularly burns, to the hands or feet. The apparatus comprises an envelope for receiving the affected part of the body. The envelope (12) comprises an air-tight cover which contains a porous pad (22, 24, 26) for covering the wound. Means are provided for connecting the interior of the envelope to a source of suction.

Abstract: A surgical cast venting device comprises two elongate strips or two layers of flexible material, at least one of which is porous. The strips or layers are spaced apart from each other and extend parallel to each other. Flexible, solid spacer members are arranged between the two strips or layers and connect them together. These members form air passageways between adjacent spacers so that air is normally free to pass along the passageways. A moisture-absorbent fabric layer extends along an outer side of the porous strip or layer opposite the spacers. In an alternate version, there is a first strip which is porous and a series of substantially flat, flexible outer members arranged in a row from one end of the strip to an opposite end. The outer members are spaced from the strip and opposite side edges of the strip and of the outer members are aligned with one another.

Abstract: A cover is described for providing a protected area on a user's arm or leg, and especially over a cast on the arm or leg. The cover includes a sheath portion with an open end and a closed end. A user's arm is placed within the sheath. An inflatable ring is cooperable with the open end of the sheath to create a seal above an area of the arm or leg that is to be protected. An adhesive strip may be provided on the outside of the ring to adhere to a free end of the sheath.

Abstract: An orthopedic cast cover for covering an orthopedic cast of a user includes a tubular portion for covering the orthopedic cast; a distal portion including a thumb hole for receiving a thumb of the user and an oval finger opening for receiving fingers of the user; and finger separators spanning the oval finger opening and extending linearly between the fingers in V-shaped portions formed between the fingers.

Abstract: A fluid impervious protective sleeve is described adapted for covering and sealing an injury positioned on a limb of a wearer. The protective sleeve has an elastomeric upper portion sealingly connected with a polymer lower portion. The upper portion defines a waterproof sealing interface adapted for use with a portion of the limb. The sealing interface is configured for accommodating the limb's full range of motion while the wearer is engaged in activities such as water sports. The lower portion 5 cis adapted for use with a wearer's hand or foot.

Abstract: A castliner in the form of a three-dimensionally knitted sleeve comprises a microdenier yarn, and/or a spandex yarn, in particular, a spandex yarn having a flatter stress-strain curve than traditional spandex yarns. The use of the microdenier yarn contributes to the superior cushioning effect. The stretch and recovery properties of the particular spandex yarn contribute to superior fit and reduction of pressure points on the limb or body part to which the castliner is applied. Furthermore, the castliner is rendered water resistant and has significantly improved antimicrobial properties, both of which reduce incidents of skin irritation and unpleasant smell. As a result, the patient wearing the castliner of the invention is able to bathe and get wet without otherwise replacing the hard casting and castliner after such events.

Abstract: A waterproof cover for casts and/or bandages on limb extremities is formed as a thin-walled elastomeric water-impervious linear tube, preferably made of nitrile, open at at least one end. The cover stretches skin-tight over a limb extremity, and over any and all casts and/or bandages upon the limb extremity, so as to conform to a combined exterior contour of the limb and of any casts and bandages upon the limb. The cover circumferentially squeezes against the limb, sealing watertight both the limb and any casts and/or bandages upon the limb. The waterproof elastomeric tubular cover is comfortable, non-obtrusive, non-obstructive, and easily deployed, removed, and re-deployed. Preferred embodiments for use on the leg from the toes to the knee, and beyond to the thigh, range from 29 inches (73.5 cm.) to 41.0 inches (103.5 cm) in length, with a diameter at the ankle of 3.5 inches (8.9 cm); at the calf 5.0 inches (12.7 cm); and at the knee 4.5 inches (11.5 cm).

Abstract: The nature of the invention is to thoroughly compress the entire length and circumference of a medical site, limb, torso, neck, arm and leg with a tubular elastic sleeve that has openings at both ends. The I.V. Sleeve has bands of compressed elastic reinforcement about its circumference and equidistant throughout its entire length. The purposes of the bands are to reinforce the I.V. Sleeve and protect the compressed integrity of the remainder of the site and sleeve in the event of puncture or rupture of the sleeve in another section. For distribution and packaging it is rolled upon itself like an elastic ring. During use the entire elastic ring is stretched over any obstruction and onto the medical site where it is then unrolled onto the site becoming a skin tight protective barrier. The I.V. sleeve allows for its material to be manufactured with both impregnable and pregnable materials, man made and natural.

Abstract: Methods for the production of deposition products including an oxidized metal species under both acidic and alkaline conditions, methods for the production of composite materials including a substrate and the deposition product, and products in the nature of deposition products and composite materials. The methods are particularly suited for depositing a very thin layer of a deposition product on a substrate and may be used to produce composite materials for use in many applications, including but not limited to electronics, materials engineering and medical applications. In a preferred embodiment, the metal is silver, the substrates are medical devices or components of medical devices and the deposition product includes an antimicrobially active oxidized silver species.

Abstract: A surgical cast venting device comprises two elongate strips or two layers of flexible material, at least one of which is porous. The strips or layers are spaced apart from each other and extend parallel to each other. Flexible, solid spacer members are arranged between the two strips or layers and connect them together. These members form air passageways between adjacent spacers so that air is normally free to pass along the passageways. A moisture-absorbent fabric layer extends along an outer side of the porous strip or layer opposite the spacers. In an alternate version, there is a first strip which is porous and a series of substantially flat, flexible outer members arranged in a row from one end of the strip to an opposite end. The outer members are spaced from the strip and opposite side edges of the strip and of the outer members are aligned with one another.

Abstract: Disposable, water resistant plastic surgical bandage or cast covers with elastic bands at any open end, and powder rings inside at all open ends that gel on contact with any moisture. The covers are patterned for the head, neck, chest, waist, arm, leg, and foot to protect against water seepage when taking a shower or bath.

Abstract: A protective covering for a site on a body part and a method of deploying the same are provided. The protective covering comprises a generally rectangular shaped strip of a waterproof material having first and second lateral edges defined between first and second end edges, a first and second surfaces, a first adhesive portion on the first surface located along the first lateral edge proximate to the first end edge, and a second adhesive portion on the first surface located along the second lateral edge proximate to the second end edge. The protective covering is wrapped a plurality of times in a partially self-overlapping manner around the body part to prevent water penetration to the site with the first surface in contact with the body part and the adhesive portions contacted to the body part to create a pair of adhesive watertight seals above and below the site.

Abstract: An adjustable protective cover for covering a patient's appendage and a medical device and/or a wound is disclosed. The cover includes an elongated water resistant flexible bag and at least two fastening elements disposed on the flexible bag that engage to shorten the net length and/or width of the flexible bag. A sealing band is also disclosed that engages the opening of the flexible bag and provides a water resistant seal without creating a tourniquet on the patient's appendage.

Abstract: A shoe for providing therapeutic treatment of a user's foot includes a waterproof flexible shoe member having a sidewall portion and a sole portion adapted to receive a therapeutic solution and a user's foot. The shoe member is structurally arranged to receive and enclose the user's foot and the therapeutic solution therearound. The sole portion of the shoe member includes an upper surface engageable with the user's foot and a lower surface engageable with a supporting surface, with the upper surface having texturizing members thereon which engage the user's foot to treat the foot during movement of the user's foot within the shoe.

Abstract: The skin contacting layer of the present invention utilizes a skin contacting occlusive layer that is provided with an uninterrupted border of pressure sensitive occlusive adhesive that encompasses the wound, thereby providing a chemical and biological resistant seal to the skin for containment of body fluids within the absorbent region of the dressing. This arrangement will prevent the migration of body fluids beyond the chemical land biological resistant barriers of the dressing and provide a safe means of minimizing exposure to body fluids, thus reducing the possibility of contact with contagions within said body fluids by attending personnel. Due to the fact the loss of body fluids into chemical and biological protective garment will decrease the garment's effectiveness, the present invention may also be used to treat persons who are injured in a chemically or biologically contaminated environment.

Abstract: A cast or splint construction that is provided as a flat, multilayered construction pre-configured to have a general form specific to the type of cast to be applied. The multilayer cast construction can be trimmed to size appropriate for the individual body part. The cast construction has one or more inner layers that rest against the patient's skin. Preferably, the skin-contacting layer is made of a material capable of wicking away moisture from the patient's skin. An outer layer of a wettable, breathable, and durable fabric forms the exterior surface of the multilayered cast construction. One or more central layers are sandwiched between the inner layer and the outer layer. The central layers contain one or more layers of padding material and channels of hardenable material. Stitching binds the multiple layers into a unitary multilayer cast construction and defines alternating flexible and hardenable regions.