Abstract: The present disclosure provides a device and method for facilitating air flow in the nasal passage of a domestic animal. The nasal support device (NSD) disclosed herein is useful for facilitating air flow during rest, physical exertion, respiratory ailment, etc. The NSD secures to the nose of a domestic animal to support the unsupported lateral vestibular walls of the nasal passages by lifting or stenting.

Abstract: The invention relates to a device for performing hemostasis at two symmetrically located puncture sites in the femoral arteries or veins of a patient. It comprises a beam member (6, 8) provided with two attachment devices (10, 12) for pressure pads. There are belts for securing the device to the patient to provide a pressure on the puncture sites, and means (18, 20, 24, 26) for adjusting the distance between said attachment. The invention also provides a method of controlled hemostasis at two puncture sites in each femoral artery or vein of a patient after catheterization, comprising providing a beam member having two pressure pads, adapted to bear against each puncture site, adjusting the center-to-center distance of said pressure pads by moving at least one of said pressure pads along said beam member, applying said pressure pads at said puncture sites, securing said beam member carrying said pressure pads to the body of said patient, by tightening a belt around the body.

Abstract: A system for the removal of epidermal and dermal skin through the use of a pressurized stream of water. The surgeon chooses the pressure of the water to obtain the desired abrasive affect. In one embodiment of the invention, a benign abrasive is added to the water to assist in the removal of the surface cells of the skin. In other embodiments, a variety of medications are added to the water such as: anesthetics to deaden the skin being abraded; coagulants to minimized bleeding in the abraded area; and antiseptics to combat infection after treatment is applied. In one embodiment of the invention, a catch reservoir is positioned around the site being treated to collect and withdraw the spent liquid and removed cells.

Abstract: A compression sleeve for treating lymphedema is provided. The compression sleeve is comprised of an outer inelastic fabric layer and an inner flexible sheet padding layer. A plurality of tightening straps are laterally disposed in vertical succession along an exterior side of the sleeve to independently apply circumferential pressure along the length of the sleeve. The sleeve is able to apply a consistent gradient pressure from a distal part of the limb to a proximal end of the limb to help squeeze excess lymph from the limb. The inner padding layer is comprised of a high density foam material provided in a thin, continuous surface, flat sheet and has a high degree of firmness capable of evenly distributing the pressure generated by the tightening straps to prevent pockets of swelling within the sleeve. The compression sleeve can be configured for use with both arms and legs.

Abstract: A hemorrhoid relief and anal hygiene device is provided including a pressure member for placement between opposing buttock surfaces in the natal cleft adjacent to the anus of the user. The pressure member has opposite side faces for each positioning against one of the opposing buttock surfaces of the user. Each of the side faces of the pressure member is substantially planar. Each of the side faces of the pressure member lie in substantially parallel planes. The pressure member has a perimeter wall that extends between the opposite side faces. The perimeter wall has a first section, a second section, and a third section. The first and second sections of the perimeter wall has inboard ends converging at a protruding crest adapted for partial insertion in the anus of the user. The first and second sections are concave for abutting opposite areas of the surface of the anus. The third section extends between outboard ends of the first and second sections.

Abstract: An occluder apparatus for obstructing the flow of blood in a blood vessel has an elongated hollow tubular body having a leading end sized for reception in the blood vessel and includes portion of the body fabricated from a material soluble in blood, and a piercing device for inserting the body through the wall of the blood vessel to extend the leading end into the interior of the blood vessel. An inflatable diaphragm is carried by the body in a collapsed, deflated condition, and the apparatus includes a passage for conducting an inflating fluid from an external source, which is into fluid communication with the interior of the diaphragm, to effect expansion the diaphragm. Elongated openings in the body enable the diaphragm to be released in an inflated state from the body into flexible occluding engagement with the interior wall of the blood vessel about the full circumference of a transverse section thereof.

Abstract: A device for controlling the reflex response of a muscle or muscular group articulating a living body joint by applying a specific mechanical stimulation (SMS) to the external area of the joint which corresponds to the mechano-receptors guiding a natural reflex of the muscle or muscular group. The embodiments of the device include a support member adapted to be mounted to the wrist ankle or lumbar spine joint, a pressure-applying member and a resilient portion interposed between the support member and the pressure-applying member to continuously apply a required pressure intensity during articulation movements of the joint. The mechano-receptors include skin mechano-receptors and deeper joint mechano-receptors. The reflex response of muscles articulating a joint is facilitated by a low external SMS pressure intensity and inhibited by a high external SMS pressure intensity.

Abstract: An apparatus for treating lymphedema in the limb of a patient as an outer sleeve configured to encircle the limb of the patient. A plurality of straps are secured in a lateral configuration on the sleeve to tighten the sleeve about the limb of the patient. Detachable markers are located on each of the straps adjacent a reference point on the straps to permit the straps to be tightened, loosened and then retightened to the same positions. The method for treating edema in the limb of a patient at a multiplicity of spaced apart locations comprises encircling the limb of a patient with an elongated sleeve having an elongated open seam and a plurality of spaced apart laterally extending releasable enclosable tightening straps. Strap are closed to secure the sleeve to the patient's limb. One of the straps is released, and a partially air-inflated pneumatic bladder is inserted through the seam underneath the released strap to position the bladder adjacent the patient's limb and the interior of the sleeve.

Abstract: A non-pneumatic tourniquet for use in treating deep vein thrombosis including: a band, the band having a first end and a second end, wherein said first end and said second end have structure for adjustably connecting to one another; and an adjustable disc, the disc made of substantially hard, non-compressable material and wherein said disc is adjustably connected to said band. A method of treating deep vein thrombosis is also disclosed in which the thrombus can not be easily treated using a catheter, i.e., actively lysed by flow-directed therapy.

Abstract: Implantable systems for controlling flow through body lumens comprise a control module and an actuator. The actuator is implanted at least partially over the body lumen to selectively constrict the lumen and control flow therethrough. The control module includes at least a power source for operating the actuator and a remotely operated switch for controlling the power source. Usually, the control module will have programmable circuitry for adjusting on/off time, degree of closure, and the like. The switch of the control module is remotely actuated by a magnetic or other signal. The control circuitry may be remotely programmed using a hand-held programmer.

Abstract: A magnetic needle for acupuncture is disclosed. The magnetic needle of this invention has a housing having an opening and a magnet seated in the opening of the housing. A wedge-shaped projection is held in the opening of the housing so as to project into the exterior of the bottom wall of the housing and come into contact with the magnet. The projection forms an intensive magnetic field around a meridian point having fine electric current or electromagnetic waves. The projection thus magnetically stimulates the meridian point while performing a magnetic massage effect on the meridian point. The magnetic needle accomplishes an acupuncturing effect for relieving pain and curing disease as expected in typical acupuncture.

Abstract: A method and device for treatment of a varicose vein is provided which includes the step of applying to the skin of a subject superficial to the vein to be treated a device including: (a) an element for securing the device to the leg of a subject superficial to the vein to be treated such as a carrier tape; and (b) a one-way valve element such as a cantilever element biased by a spring for applying a selected amount of pressure to the skin superficial to the vein to be treated in a manner such that blood-flow toward the heart is permitted during peripheral venous pumping but wherein backflow away from the heart as a result of gravity is substantially reduced; and applying sufficient pressure to the skin superficial to the vein to be treated in a manner such that blood-flow toward the heart is permitted during peripheral venous pumping but wherein backflow away from the heart as a result of gravity is substantially reduced.

Abstract: A urethral occlusion device having a very malleable, flexible, deformable polymer occlusion band which may be easily wrapped about the exterior of the penis to provide sufficient pressure to prevent urine flow, but without restricting blood circulation. The occlusion band includes a silicone rubber shell with silicone gel liner surfaces which provide a washable, reusable, skin-sensitive bond when wrapped, and allow the band to be tightened to the patient's desired degree of compression. A plurality of pliant, deformable ribs are positioned on the occlusion band and oriented along the underside of the penis to mildly stretch the urethra to an occluded position.

Abstract: An acupressure device is especially adapted for use as an anti-nausea prophylactic. The device comprises a substantially flat base having first and second opposing surfaces and a central aperture. A rounded button is disposed within the central aperture, the rounded pressure-applying surface of the button facing in the same direction as the first surface of the base. A pluraliy of spokes extend from the button to the perimeter of the central aperture, thereby supporting the button within the aperture. The first surface of the base has an adhesive coating so that the device may be adhered to the skin with the button contacting a desired acupressure point.

Abstract: A vascular assist device which maintains a static graduated pressure as the minimum pressure at all times during use. At least two inflatable chambers which wrap around selected portions of a limb apply elevated pressure to selected portions of a limb to disgorge blood therefrom. The inflatable chambers also apply static pressure which is graduated from distal to proximal along selected portions of a limb, such as from the ankle to the hip. A separate inflatable foot chamber can be included and is not necessarily utilized in conjunction with the compression phases for the ankle, calf, or thigh inflatable chambers. A desired pressure level is generated and maintained in a pressure accumulator, and a pressure regulator and regulator valve control the pressure in the inflatable chambers. The inflatable chambers between the ankle and hip are inflated to a predetermined and uniform dynamic pressure which is maintained in the inflatable chambers for a predetermined amount of time.

Abstract: A universal pressure pad for femoral clamps capable of coupling with two or more clamps of different design is provided by a generally disc-shaped pad with a central joint or boss which has a cavity with an upper spherical ball socket and a lower conical socket. Therefore, an insertion element from a clamp having a ball socket snaps into the upper ball socket cavity to form a swiveling ball and socket combination. Similarly, an insertion element from an artery clamp which has a rigid conical pin is disposed through the spherical ball socket in the upper portion of the joint and extends into the lower frustoconical section of the cavity to provide a force fit with the pin.

Abstract: A femoral arterial or venous compression device for post-catheterization hemostasis includes a supporting frame (base (1), shaft (2) and arm (4)), and an inflatable unit (carriage (6), bellows (7), disk (8), and pad (9)). The supporting frame is fixed on the human body in line with the incision site in order to bring the pad (9) exactly over and in touch with the latter. The bellows (7) are inflated thus compressing the incision site with the pad (9) for all the time needed to reach complete hemostasis. The pressure on the incision remains constant during the compression period and can be regulated and monitored using a medical sphygmomanometer.

Abstract: An air injection type stomach band for distracting (e.g. stretching or extending) the lumbar vertebra of disc patients is disclosed. In the air injection type stomach band for distracting the lumbar vertebrae of disc patients, a plurality of air expansion tubes are connected perpendicularly to an air injection tube at equidistant intervals. When air is injected into the air expansion tubes, the air expansion tubes are elastically expanded so as to distract the vertebrae which constitute the lumbar vertebra. When the lumbar vertebrae are pressed, the pulpar nucleus which lies at the center of the fibrous ring is projected out. Then the projected pulpar nucleus presses the nerve, thereby causing pains in the patients. The wearing of the stomach band strengthens the fibrous ring and the lig. longitudinale anterius. Therefore, the pain is alleviated, and prevents the pulpar nucleus from being projected. Therefore, an essential treatment is possible.

Abstract: A balloon-free dilatation catheter has an elongated flexible sheath which is insertable into an animal body so that its distal end is located at or within a selected portion of an internal passage, such as in a blood vessel. The distal end normally confines an elongated cage-like expander having elongated at least partially resilient expanding elements which store energy when confined within the distal end but expand and bear against the tissue surrounding the selected portion of the internal passage when expelled from the distal end by one or more sleeve-like displacing elements confined in and movable circumferentially and/or longitudinally of the sheath. The expanding elements can carry one or more thermometers and/or the discharge end(s) of one or more conduits for a medication or another flowable substance and/or they can be connected to an energy source, e.g., to cool or heat and/or otherwise treat the tissue.

Abstract: A device for creating and maintaining a rigid erection of a penis comprising a body having a substantially non-contracting width and being adapted for disposition around the penis and first and second terminals attached to the body and being adapted for wrapping around the penis and interlocking with each other; and a method of creating and sustaining a penile erection comprising the steps of supplying a body having a substantially non-contracting width and terminals, placing the body around the penis, wrapping the terminals around the penis, and interconnecting the terminals tight enough so as to prevent blood from exiting the penis.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a non-invasive penile erection device having a constrictor ring designed to fit against the base of a male genital or penis, and a diaphragm seal that forms a substantially air tight seal against the constrictor ring. The constrictor ring is designed to comfortably and securely fit the base of the penis. The substantially air tight seal enables the pump to produce vacuum pressures of over 17 inches of mercury. The diaphragm seal is designed to collapse around the constrictor ring and remain on during sexual activity. The diaphragm seal cooperates with the constrictor ring to apply pressure to the surface of the penis. The placement of the constrictor ring on the base of the penis and the greater vacuum pressure achieved by the device tend to draw the root or "oz" of the penis into the constrictor ring so that a more natural erection is achieved and maintained after the vacuum tube is removed.

Abstract: A flexible and transparent corneal endothelium protective device includes a relatively thin protective barrier portion, and a relatively thicker form-providing rim around the barrier portion. An access opening is provided through at least one of the rim and the barrier portion. The protective device is foldable for insertion through a surgical incision, is resilient such that it springs into shape once positioned in the eye, and is sufficiently flexible such that it may easily be removed through the incision in the eye near the completion of the surgical procedure. Various shapes are provided for the device. The protective device is inserted through the small incision and maneuvered into the space between the iris and the cornea and permitted to unfold. During surgery, instruments and other devices may be passed through the surgical incision and extend through an access opening of the protective device to operate on the lens.

Abstract: An appliance for therapeutic pressure application, the appliance comprising at least one protuberance each having a base end anchored to a resilient medium and a point end for applying pressure to tissue, the medium having resilient, flexible and insulating properties to absorb in part s the pressure between the point ends and the tissue so as to prevent pain, cut or penetration of the tissue by the point ends and to retain the heat generated by the tissue.

Abstract: This invention is an apparatus for treating lymphedema having a sleeve with inwardly projecting-elastomeric fingers and externally fitted pressure adjusting circular bands. When the sleeve is fitted to a patient's limb, the fingers impose a grid pattern of pressure points against skin of swollen limb. Space around and between the pressure points provide channels under the skin through which lymphatic fluids are able to migrate up the arm to the shoulder where healthy nodes process it and channel it to the large veins. Similar applications are applied to other limbs, hands, and feet with sleeves, and to the shoulder, chest wall, and back with vests.

Abstract: A device for applying a continuous pressure and magnetic field to the septum of a wearer. The device comprises a generally U-shaped member comprising a base and two parallel arms, each of said arms being inserted into a nostril of a wearer, said arms being further biased toward said septum; canted bulbous protrusions at the ends of said legs for applying pressure to the septum of the wearer; and magnets within the bulbous protrusions for facilitating the closure of said arms and legs and for applying a magnetic field to said septum.

Abstract: A configuration register is incorporated into an electrically powered tourniquet apparatus for enabling an operator to change the values of parameters initially employed at the time of the next use of the apparatus, such as the initial pressure settings and elapsed time limits. These changed initial values of parameters are stored in memory and remain there despite inadvertent or intentional interruption of electrical power to the apparatus. An event register provides capability for recording the occurrence of events (cuff inflation, cuff deflation, etc.) and for relating the occurrence of the events to hazards and undesirable outcomes such as nerve damage associated with tourniquet usage.

Abstract: In the case of a surgical device for fixing bone elements, having an elongated, flexible clamping means for winding around and bracing the bone elements to be fixed, having a connecting part for connecting the ends of the tightened clamping means, a first end of the clamping means being fastenable to the connecting part and the second free end of the clamping means being passable through an opening of the connecting part so as to form a loop, and having a locking member supported counter to the clamping direction against the connecting part and non-releasably connectable to the clamping means, in order to refine said device in such a way that, while being easy to handle, it not only enables a reliable permanent fixing of the clamping means but also, without additional aids, allows a temporary fixing during an operation, it is proposed that the locking member comprises a blocking element which blocks a movement of the clamping means counter to the clamping direction.

Abstract: An apparatus for treating lymphedema in the limb of a patient as an outer sleeve configured to encircle the limb of the patient. A plurality of straps are secured in a lateral configuration on the sleeve to tighten the sleeve about the limb of the patient. Detachable markers are located on each of the straps adjacent a reference point on the straps to permit the straps to be tightened, loosened and then retightened to the same positions. The method for treating edema in the limb of a patient at a multiplicity of spaced apart locations comprises encircling the limb of a patient with an elongated sleeve having an elongated open seam and a plurality of spaced apart laterally extending releasable enclosable tightening straps. Strap are closed to secure the sleeve to the patient's limb. One of the straps is released, and a partially air-inflated pneumatic bladder is inserted through the seam underneath the released strap to position the bladder adjacent the patient's limb and the interior of the sleeve.

Abstract: An apparatus used in a method of restricting venous flow in an extremity includes a first flexible, stretchable elongate band and a first flexible, stretchable loop fixed to a first end of the first band. A second loop sized to fit about the extremity is defined by passing a free end of the first band through the first loop. Upon pulling a free end of the first band through the first loop in a direction outward from the extremity, the first band stretches against the first loop, thereby causing the second loop to tighten about the extremity to restrict venous flow therethrough. A combination of frictional engagement and stretching of the first band and of the first loop against each other releasably secures the second loop about the extremity in its tightened position, thereby eliminating the need to hold the apparatus to maintain the tightened position.

Abstract: A controller for applying sequential compression to a patient's limb includes a variable speed motor connected to a rotary vane pump, and an electronic control circuit to drive the motor at a speed which will in turn drive the pump at a corresponding speed to provide intended output pressure. The controller provides automatic regulation of preset pressure and operates in a fully automatic manner. The controller is contained within a compact housing which can be floor or bed mounted and which has an output connector integral with a unitary manifold assembly for coupling to a tubing set by which sequentially pressurized air is directed to respective compartments of one or more compression sleeves disposed about a patient's limbs.

Abstract: A system and method for preventing the spurting of blood from a vein or artery, the system including an adhesive tape comprising an air permeable non-woven material, across the width of which an adhesive is applied in rows, and a hemostatic island absorbent dressing pad, which expands on contact with fluids, affixed to said non-woven material, and an armband associated with the adhesive tape, the armband including a flexible strap having a notched underside, a pressure box with a rigid extension on either side thereof attached to one end of the strap, the pressure box and extensions forming a T shape, a groove defined along the width of the strap where the strap is attached to one rigid extension, at one end of the T shape, to enable the strap to bend downwards at a 90.degree.

Abstract: A cold pressure apparatus for relieving headache pain including an elongate member constrictively engagable about a head, and a cooling material carried by the elongate member for compressive and cooling engagement with the head.

Abstract: A clamp is placed over the bridge of the nose to apply pressure over the fossa of the nasolacrimal sac, prior to ocular medication to thereby seal the nasolacrimal sac and prevent drainage of medicament away from the eye. The clamp can be embedded in a flexible molded positioning device which has been molded to fit the shape of the bridge of the nose. In an improved embodiment the embedded clamp in a flexible molded positioning device is attached to a modified eyeglass frame. In a further embodiment a band to go around the back of the head or around the ears can be attached to the clamp.

Abstract: An apparatus for treating edema by applying pressure to a patient's limb includes a sleeve that is surroundingly engageable with the limb, and the sleeve includes a plurality of flexible open-ended cells for holding respective individually inflatable replaceable bladders. Also, a fluid pump is in fluid communication with each of the bladders. The apparatus also includes a plurality of electrically-operated bladder valves, and each valve is disposed between the pump and a respective one of the bladders for selectively establishing a respective pathway for fluid communication between the pump and the associated bladder. A computer individually controls each valve to variably pressurize the bladders in a variable sequence. The computer also includes means for determining the girth of the limb being treated, and to periodically monitor the apparatus for fluid leaks.

Abstract: This invention relates to a manual pressing and automatic air breathing cardiopulmonary resuscitation first-aid device, mainly comprising a manual pressing shaft, a pump, an air storage tank, a height-adjustable stand, an air control valve and a mouth-nose breather. In operation, the manual pressing shaft is pressed to cause the pump to compress downwards such that air is compressed into the air storage tank and temporarily stored therein. Each time the manual pressing shaft is pressed downwards, the air control valve is activated to rotate a one-fifth revolution. When the manual pressing shaft is pressed five times continuously, that is, the air control valve rotates a complete revolution, the air temporarily stored within the air storage tank will be released and breathed into the patient's mouth via the mouth-nose breather. Such an action must be repeated continuously until the patient is revived.

Abstract: A device for applying external pressure to one or more vertebra for repositioning the same and/or maintaining the position thereof in the spinal column, or for forcing and maintaining segments of a broken vertebra in healing contact with each other. The device has an upper body vest adapted to substantially surround the upper body of a patient in a snug manner whereby the vest is substantially immovable relative to the upper body. The vest has front and back sections provided with cooperating elements of an attachment mechanism such as Velcro or belt and adjustable buckle, for clamping the sections to the upper body. The back section has a pressure applicator unit extending substantially the length of the back section for applying external pressure, generally posteriorly to one or more vertebra.

Abstract: Disclosed are tools and methods for assisting in the manual insertion of a needle into a medical device implanted under the skin of a patient and for assisting in the manual removal of the needle from this implanted medical device. The same tool may be used for both accessing and deaccessing the needle, or a special tool may be used for just assisting in the insertion of the needle into the implanted medical device. This special tool includes a holder section with a pair of fork elements spaced apart a distance which is slightly greater than the width of the implanted medical device. The tool for assisting in the manual removal of the needle from the implanted medical device includes an elongated body having a handle section and an enlarged guard section with an elongated slot extending from an edge of the guard section into the guard section, terminating at an internal portion of the guard section.

Abstract: A wound closure, hemostasis device, such as a femoral hemostat, includes an inflatable balloon with an inflation and deflation outlet. A placement patch includes an aperture for receiving the inflation and deflation outlet. The inflatable balloon is coupled to the placement patch and positioned adjacent to a wound site or a bleeding vessel. A belt straps through the placement patch and around the patient's body or a patient's appendage and holds the placement patch at the wound site or bleeding vessel. An inflation tube is coupled to the inflation and deflation outlet. An inflation apparatus is coupled to the inflation and deflation outlet.

Abstract: A natural headache reliever using acupressure points on the scalp and upper posterior neck is disclosed. A cap-like device having an outer membrane (1) and an inner membrane (2) will be placed comfortably on the head of the wearer. The two membranes meet and are attached at their margins, thus forming an inner potential space (4) between the membranes. The inner membrane, that which will be closest to the scalp of the wearer, will contain a plurality of immobile protrusions (5) at a distance of between 10 and 20 millimeters apart. Direct pressure will be applied by the protrusions on different acupressure points on the scalp and upper posterior neck. A pump (3) will be used to create the pressure by introducing air into the potential space (4) between the inner and outer membranes. The wearer controls the duration and amount of pressure, thereby ensuring his or her comfort while alleviating the head pain.

Abstract: A device for applying external pressure to one or more vertebra for repositioning the same and/or maintaining the position thereof in the spinal column, or for forcing and maintaining segments of a broken vertebra in healing contact with each other. The device has an upper body vest adapted to substantially surround the upper body of a patient in a snug manner whereby the vest is substantially immovable relative to the upper body. The vest has front and back sections provided with cooperating elements of an attachment mechanism such as Velcro or belt and adjustable buckle, for clamping the sections to the upper body. The back section has a pressure applicator unit extending substantially the length of the back section for applying external pressure, generally posteriorly to one or more vertebra. The applicator has a plunger such as a screw mounted for controlled, reciprocable movement in a direction toward the spine for applying the external pressure in a controlled manner to one or more vertebra areas.

Abstract: This invention relates to an obsterical pneumogirdle having a body formed by a front section and a back section between which an inflatable chamber is placed. When inflated, the chamber remains located exactly over the front wall of a pregnant woman's abdomen, in such a way that appropriate intermittent pressure may be exerted over the patient's womb. This obstertrical pneumogirdle also comprises a monitor, a manometer a pneumatic electronic control system, an inlet for oxygen or air, a pressure adjustment knob, cables for electric feeding, a hose for pressure monitoring, a plurality of girdle braces, a switch to start or stop the system's operation, an air hose and switch to start or stop air flow is interconnected to an air pump, and devices to fasten the girdle to the patient's body. All these components are disposed in such a way to make the air injection possible as well as the regulation of pressure, and further, to procure a safe, calm and efficient childbirth.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a device for use in medical procedures for imaging a patient's lumbar spine while in a supine position by computerized tomography and magnetic resonance tomography, comprising a garment-like structure such as waistcoat substantially surrounding a portion of the body of a patient, a foot plate having pressure sensors and being attached to a substantially stationary surface, a pulling cord attached to said waistcoat and said foot plate as well as a transmission attached to said pulling cord and said foot plate for exerting a pressure on the spine.

Abstract: Disclosed is a pressure eye patch in which an inner membrane is positioned over the patient's eye and fixed thereto by means of adhesive on its inner side with an outer membrane which is superimposed over the inner membrane, thus forming a cavity that is interposed between the outer membrane and the inner membrane. There is an elongated longitudinal slit in the outer membrane which allows the outer membrane to be opened to allow access to the cavity. Cushioning material such as sterile gauze may be inserted into the cavity through this opening. Alternatively, a cooling or heating material may also be emplaced in the cavity. Instead of the elongated slit there may be a partial peripheral opening between the front and rear membranes to allow access to the cavity.

Abstract: An overlapping tourniquet cuff system for improved application of pressure to the limb, including an inflatable bladder; a sheath for containing the inflatable bladder wherein the sheath has a length sufficient to encircle the limb and overlap on itself in a substantially circumferential direction around the limb; a mechanism for securing the overlapped sheath around the limb; and a stiffening mechanism for superimposing over a region of the overlapped and secured sheath to constrain the shape of the sheath beneath the region when the bladder is inflated. The stiffening mechanism includes a securing mechanism for securing the overlapping sheath in a substantially circumferential direction around the limb independently of the sheath securing mechanism such that the sheath remains overlapped and secured in a substantially circumferential direction if the sheath securing mechanism is not engaged or becomes ineffective while the bladder is inflated.

Abstract: A device for the cessation of the blood flow in an extremity comprising a plurality of chambers encircling the extremity in a sequential arrangement. Each chamber being able to individually apply or release pressure to the extremity. The device has a monitor for determining the pressure applied to the extremity. The device further having a mechanism for continuously cycling the chambers.

Abstract: A device which comprises a wrist clamp which incorporates an adjustable tension screw in order to affix the clamp securely to a patient's wrist, an adjustable compression screw and pad which allows one to apply sufficient pressure to the arterial incision in order to affect adequate closure thereof while the patient's blood is coagulating, until hemostasis, after which the device may be safely removed.

Abstract: A resuscitator is disclosed for rendering assistance to a choking victim in a manner similar to the abdominal thrust method or Heimlich manoeuvre. The resuscitator has a planar handle member with opposed end portions having finger openings to form hand grips. A raised, rounded pad is located between the end portions and extends perpendicular to the handle member. The pad has a rectangular or diamond shaped base in plan view orientated so that V-shaped side walls fit the shape of the pit of the stomach.

Abstract: An acupressure device is disclosed for stimulating an LI-4 acupressure point located on the back side of a hand within the fleshy crotch between the thumb and index finger. The acupressure device is simple to use and enables accurate positioning over the LI-4 acupressure point and simultaneous stimulation of both hands.

Abstract: A pressure-applying device for relieving distress includes a pressure applicator having a plate member and a pressure-applying body attached to and protruding from one of a pair of opposite surfaces of the plate member. The plate member has a central portion with a pair of opposite surfaces facing in opposite directions and a peripheral portion surrounding the central portion and having a pair of first opposite sides respectively connected to opposite ends of the central portion and a pair of second opposite sides spaced from a pair of opposite edges of the central portion so as to define respective elongated enclosed slots within the plate member between the second opposite sides of the peripheral portion and the pair of opposite edges of the central portion of the plate member.

Abstract: A scar-reducing frame structure of the type for preventing motion relative to a healing cut in a person's skin of skin the region of the cut. The frame is conformable and attachable to the person's skin, and has an open area which encompasses the cut. The frame is substantially rigid in the plane of the frame so as to substantially prevent motion of the skin within the open area relative to the cut to allow the cut to heal without scarring. The frame includes an adhesive layer for fixedly attaching the frame to the skin. The adhesive layer is waterproof and provides for secure attachment of the frame to the skin, and allows the frame structure to be removed for purposes of replacement or when healing of the cut is complete.