Abstract: An absorbent pad has a cavity formed by a first flexible sheet of a liquid impermeable material and a second flexible sheet of a liquid permeable material. An opening defined by at least one of the first sheet and second sheet. An interior sheet of a liquid absorbent material forms a gel upon contact with a liquid.

Abstract: An embodiment of the present invention is a therapy component of an animate body heat exchanger that includes: (a) a bladder that contains a heat exchange medium, which bladder is compliant and is shaped to conform to a body part to be subjected to heat exchange; (b) a gas pressure bladder that overlays at least a portion of the bladder to direct gas pressure against the body part and against the portion to press the portion towards the body part, which gas pressure bladder is defined at least partially by a first pair of generally parallel walls; and (c) a plurality of first connections that connect the walls together interiorly of the gas pressure bladder to inhibit separation of the walls.

Abstract: A support surface for patient comfort, maintaining a cool skin temperature, or reducing the incidence and promoting the healing of bedsores, includes: (a) a central portion including a hollow, enclosed bladder containing a pre-determined amount of liquid refrigerant with a boiling point between about 23 and about 35 degrees Centigrade; (b) a flexible spacer mechanism contained in the bladder, the spacer mechanism separating an upper bladder wall from a lower bladder wall; and (c) conductive end portions attached to opposite ends of the bladder, the conductive end portions including a flexible heat conductive material layer.

Abstract: A cooling bracelet having a hollow chamber for holding a frozen liquid such as water. The cooling bracelet has a hollow chamber with a plug so the user may easily refill the hollow chamber with a freezable liquid and freeze the bracelet for cooling purposes. The cooling bracelet also has a detachable watch face, which is attached by hook and loop material to the cooling bracelet, on the opposite side from the hollow member holding frozen liquid. The cooling bracelet has a stretchable band so any size wrist can use the cooling bracelet. The stretchable band allows the user to slide the cooling bracelet over the hand to the wrist.

Abstract: A therapeutic body covering specific to a certain area of a body, the body covering comprising a panel for covering a certain area of a body, a removable flap positioned over the panel, a therapeutic insert configured to conform to the area of the body, a securing panel to hold the panel to the certain area of the body, and wherein the panel and the securing panel are configured so that the certain area of the body is not moved when placing the therapeutic insert between and removing the therapeutic insert from the panel and the flap.

Abstract: A method of treatment for illnesses of, but not limited to humans, related to the common sore throat related to the common cold, flu, hay fever, asthma, allergies, sinus infections, coughing and laryngitis, by the use of, and the inclusion of the THERMA-KLOTH products.

Abstract: A joint protector includes a band surrounding a human body and having an inner side and an outer side. A power supplier is securely attached to the outer side of the band. A flexible heating pad is attached to the inner side of the band and electrically connected to the power supplier. The flexible heating pad provides heat energy to warm the user's skin and reduce pain due to the electric resistance of the flexible heating pad. An inner layer is securely adhered on the inner side of the band for covering the flexible heating pad.

Abstract: A closed-cycle apparatus for cooling a living body includes a heat pickup body or garment which permits evaporation of an evaporating fluid, transmission of the vapor to a condenser, and return of the condensate to the heat pickup body. A thermal battery cooling source is provided for removing heat from the condenser. The apparatus requires no external power and provides a cooling system for soldiers, race car drivers, police officers, firefighters, bomb squad technicians, and other personnel who may utilize protective clothing to work in hostile environments. An additional shield layer may simultaneously provide protection from discomfort, illness or injury due to harmful atmospheres, projectiles, edged weapons, impacts, explosions, heat, poisons, microbes, corrosive agents, or radiation, while simultaneously removing body heat from the wearer.

Abstract: Cooling pads, mattresses, and limb-conforming sleeves reduce a person's temperature by evaporative and/or conductive cooling. An open cell foam pad defines an internal air flow passages proceeding according to serpentine or other desired routing. The pad is wetted, and a blower circulates air through the air flow passage and evaporatively cools the pad by removing warm water vapor. By contacting the cooled structure, the person is conductively cooled. The pad also employs evaporative cooling if water is permitted to seep from the foam pad onto the person's skin and subsequently evaporate. Another cooling device is a multi-layer evaporative cooling mattress. The mattress comprises an open cell foam structure having a person-receiving side and a base side. At the person-receiving side lies an absorbent layer with internal liquid delivery lines, and optionally having an outer film applied thereto.

Abstract: Methods and devices for preventing a change in the core body temperature of a mammal under cold conditions are provided. In the subject methods, a requirement for thermal energy input in said mammal is first detected. In response to the detection of this requirement for thermal energy input, a surface of a portion of the mammal is contacted with a warm temperature medium under negative pressure conditions for a period of time sufficient to introduce thermal energy into the core body of the mammal. The subject devices include at least a means for detecting a requirement for thermal energy input and a means for contacting a surface of the mammal with a warm temperature medium under negative pressure conditions. The subject methods and devices find use in a variety of applications, and are particularly suited for use in maintaining the core body temperature of a mammal substantially constant under cold conditions for an extended period of time.

Abstract: A health device includes: a far-infrared massaging device for a user's leaning, seating or lying thereon and for intimately radiating far-infrared rays towards the user to improve the user's blood circulation and metabolism for enhancing his or her health; and a juxtapositional far-infrared and anion generator movably juxtapositioned to the far-infrared massaging device for radiating far-infrared rays towards the user and for releasing anions into the air for deodorizing the air surrounding the user for synergetically promoting the user's health.

Abstract: Methods and devices for extracting thermal energy from the core body of a mammal are provided. In practicing the subject methods, a portion of the mammal, e.g. a limb or portion thereof, is placed in a sealed enclosure to produce an enclosed portion of the mammal. A surface of the enclosed portion of the mammal is then contacted with a low temperature medium under negative pressure conditions for a period of time sufficient to provide for the desired core body thermal energy extraction. The subject methods and devices find use in a variety of applications, e.g. providing relief from temperature sensitive disorders, such as multiple sclerosis, and the treatment of hyperthermia, among other treatments. The subject methods and devices are particularly suited for use in enhancing the physical ability of a mammal.

Abstract: A cooling body wrap for rapidly inducing hypothermia, includes: (a) a fluid-impermeable, flexible, conformable envelope; (b) a mixture of from about 20 to about 90 weight % of alkanes having a carbon chain length of between 10 and 14, and from about 10 to about 80 weight % of a gel or viscous fluid carrier in which the alkanes are relatively evenly distributed, the mixture being sealed within the envelope; (c) at least one layer of insulation adjacent to a first side of the envelope; and (d) fastening means for fastening the body wrap around a body part.

Abstract: A cooled stabilizer is provided for use in coronary bypass grafting surgical procedures. The cooled stabilizer can be attached to a surgical retractor for providing localized traction, stabilization and/or hemostasis to a predetermined area of body tissue. The stabilizer includes cooling channels and/or pads forming a continuous bottom surface for providing a chilled surface to contact body tissue. In one example, the cooled stabilizer can be shaped as a horseshoe with chilled surfaces over horseshoe sections and optionally over a heel.

Abstract: A light weight, portable thermal rescue/recovery system for mammals up to 300 lbs. In in weight, comprising of a mummy bag which contains a circulating liquid which is either heated when the mammal needs to be warmed as in the case of, for example, a mammal suffering from hypothermia, or cooled when the mammal's body temperature or skin temperature needs to be lowered as in the case of a burn, stroke and some heart attack victims. The mammal is placed into the mummy bag of the portable thermal rescue/recovery system which also has a pump to circulate the liquid and a heat exchanger to cool or heat the liquid. This portable thermal rescue/recovery system is suitable for all rescue vehicles including helicopters, boats, EMS ambulances, fire trucks, police cars, avalanche rescues, ice rescues and air cushion vehicles, as well as stretchers and other manual transport means, among others.

Abstract: A portable device of coiled copper tubing and copper sheet metal construction that is ergonomically designed to provide a combination of beneficial practices into one more effective method, and devices for inflammation control, injury immobilization and therapy. The combination of copper in contact with the skin, the ability to perform hot and cold treatments, or steady cold treatments for an extended period of time, and the ability to provide adjustable ergonomic support provide an improve method and devices for the treatment of injuries, aches, and pains.

Abstract: The present invention provides a thermal treatment pack that includes a tubular body having a first opening, a second opening, an inner surface and an outer surface. The first opening, the inner surface and the second opening cooperate to define a passage through the tubular body for the limb. The inner surface and the outer surface of the tubular body are defined by a continuous film of flexible material such as a copolymer of polyester and polyurethane. A temperature-retaining fluid such as a water-based gel is received between the inner surface and the outer surface. Optionally, a thermal pack according to the invention can be covered with a fabric layer to provide insulation between the continuous film of flexible material and a user's skin. The diameter of the passage through the thermal treatment pack is preferably smaller than or equal to the diameter of the injured limb, which causes the inner surface of the thermal treatment pack to make contact the limb or an insulating wrap placed over the limb.

Abstract: The Flash Technique is a new concept in thermodynamics. This technique of accumulating heat energy in a small air plenum being instantaneously flashed over the problem region of the body in a thermowave manner is capable of accomplishing with high efficiency and simultaneously Thermotherapy, Immunetherapy and Chemotherapy treatments in the patients' own home. The term “problem region” refers to tumors, a set of muscles, or any other site causing difficulty and which lends to the use of instantaneous high temperature air pulse flashes. The low power and the small size and weight of this home unit lend to the use of a flexible belt to support two applicators against different parts the body.

Abstract: A cooling system for cooling a person in a supine position as part of a clinical treatment includes an air blower, a heat exchanger, an inflatable mattress and a cooling jacket or overlay. Air from the blower is cooled by contact with the heat exchanger, passed through the jacket or overlay and through the mattress in order to rapidly cool the person so as to achieve mild hypothermia.

Abstract: An apparatus for warming a portion of a human body, such as a foot of a neonatal infant, comprising an elongated, flexible pouch defining an internal chamber containing a selecting initiable heat generating material, the pouch including a first relatively longer segment and a second relatively shorter segment joined along a narrower neck region. The two segments are independently securable to, for example, the foot of an infant, the longer first segment being secured to the bottom of the foot and extending to the heel and the shorter segment extending upwardly from the heel. Independent securement may be effected by a strap secured to and extending transversely from each segment and having adhesive at a distal end thereof, one strap being wrapped over the instep of the infant to secure the larger segment and the other strap being wrapped forwardly about the ankle, the distal ends of both straps being adhered to their respect segments.

Abstract: Apparatus and method for raising or maintaining the core temperature of a mammal during surgery is disclosed. The apparatus comprises a infrared radiant element with a double reflector design to provide a very narrow beam of radiation. In this fashion the apparatus is able to direct radiant energy at the mammal's skin in regions with a high concentration of Arteriovenous Anastomoses. The apparatus also includes a skin temperature sensor to allow closed loop control of the heat energy supplied to the mammal. The complete apparatus can be located in an unobtrusive position such that it does not interfere with the surgical team.

Abstract: A therapy pad includes an active thermal exchange bladder, and a bladder envelope including a first face and an opposing second face. The first and second faces converge at a perimeter of the envelope and collectively define a volume adapted to receive the thermal exchange bladder. The therapy pad further includes an adjustable strapping system coupled to the bladder envelope and adapted to secure the bladder envelope in a fitted position adjacent a therapy site.

Abstract: In general, the disclosure presents techniques for control of a cooling garment in response to a signal that is a function of a patient parameter such as body temperature. In particular, a cooling garment that receives a coolant and a carrier gas is placed in contact with the body of a patient. A sensor within the cooling garment may generate a signal as a function of a patient parameter. A controller receives the signal via communication link, and may send a signal to a regulator that may regulate delivery of the coolant and/or carrier gas, for example.

Abstract: In general, the disclosure presents techniques for rapidly cooling the body of a patient. A cooling garment is placed in contact with the body of the patient. Spacers within the cooling garment create a space between at least a portion of the cooling garment and the body of the patient. The cooling garment receives a coolant from a coolant supply and delivers the coolant to the body of the patient. The heat from the body of the patient may evaporate the coolant. A carrier gas, which circulates within the space between the cooling garment and the patient, carries the gaseous coolant out of the cooling garment via an exit port. The rapid cooling of the patient may slow the neurological damage to the patient.

Abstract: A heating pad assembly includes a cover member designed for abutting the back of a user. The cover member defines an interior space. A heating assembly is positioned within the cover member. The heating assembly has a first portion and a second portion. The first portion is positioned on a first side of the interior space. The second portion is positioned on a second side of the interior space. The first and second portions are positioned such that a center column through the interior space does not have either the first or second portions of the heating assembly positioned therein. A cord assembly is operationally coupled to the heating assembly. The cord assembly is designed for coupling to a conventional household electrical outlet. The cord assembly facilitates flow of electrical current through the heating assembly.

Abstract: A terry cloth fabric member is shaped to hold a large quantity of ice cubes or a heated pack in contact with a limb or joint. It's adjustability is derived from expandable material in margins formed along opposing edges and from a plurality of Velcro fastening strips at one end of the wrap and extending between the expandable margins. The fabric is configured to have a slightly concave interior to receive ice cubes and hold the ice cubes or other cooling medium in contact with a joint or limb without forceful engagement which could otherwise exacerbate the injury. The expandable margins gently grip the limb or joint area, forming a seal-like engagement to minimize leakage as the ice melts.

Abstract: A support surface for general skin cooling, or reducing the incidence and promoting the healing of bedsores, includes: (a) at least one thermal layer comprising: a phase change material having a melting point of between about 18 and 32 degrees Centigrade; a gel or viscous fluid carrier in which the phase change material is substantially evenly distributed; and a fluid-impermeable, conformable envelope surrounding the phase change material and the carrier; (b) at least one conformable compression support layer beneath and adjacent to the thermal layer; (c) at least one conformable base support layer beneath and adjacent to the compression layer, the base support layer having a higher indentor load deflection (ILD) than the compression layer. A preferred embodiment, with or without the thermal layer, includes a heat tube layer. Another preferred embodiment includes an envelope containing phase change material in a carrier material, without either of the support layers.

Abstract: The Topical Therapeutic Thermos for Humans and Other Animals herein described has been invented for the purpose of providing; an effective means of reducing and/or preventing swelling and pain that is often associated with physical injury, strenuous work and/or exercise; an effective means of reducing swelling and pain following surgery; an effective means of supplying cooling temperature uniformly to areas of a living body in order to avoid injury caused by swelling due to repetitive physical stress; an effective means of supplying warming temperature uniformly to areas of a living body to aid in physical therapy and speed in recovery of injury; and an effective means of extending the athletic lives of professional and amateur human and non-human athletes.

Abstract: An embodiment of the present invention is a therapy component of an animate body heat exchanger that includes: (a) a bladder that contains a heat exchange medium, which bladder is compliant and is shaped to conform to a body part to be subjected to heat exchange; (b) a gas pressure bladder that overlays at least a portion of the bladder to direct gas pressure against the body part and against the portion to press the portion towards the body part, which gas pressure bladder is defined at least partially by a first pair of generally parallel walls; and (c) a plurality of first connections that connect the walls together interiorly of the gas pressure bladder to inhibit separation of the walls.

Abstract: A temperature control system provides for the optimal management of patient temperature during a surgical procedure, such as those which require the patient to on bypass. The system employs a plurality of controllers as well as a plurality of temperature control means in order to provide optimal temperature control. In one configuration of the invention, controllers for each of the heat exchange devices may be interconnected using a data link. The connection may provide for a master/slave relationship wherein temperature sensors included in each system are employable as temperature feedback for initiating temperature changes. This device may be configured such that it operates in conjunction with another device or provides stand alone temperature control.

Abstract: A portable device of coiled copper tubing and copper sheet metal construction that is ergonomically designed to provide a combination of beneficial practices into one more effective method, and devices for inflammation control, injury immobilization and therapy. The combination of copper in contact with the skin, the ability to perform hot and cold treatments, or steady cold treatments for an extended period of time, and the ability to provide adjustable ergonomic support provide an improve method and devices for the treatment of injuries, aches, and pains.

Abstract: Cardiovascular parameters of a patient undergoing a procedure involving general anesthesia are maintained by controlling the patient's body temperature. Such control involves the use of a garment enveloping substantial portions of the patient's body and utilizing a heating/cooling regime taking into consideration the heat transfer dynamics of the body.

Abstract: The present invention is directed toward an improved method and apparatus for securing a prosthesis that is being implanted in a patient. A heat-curable bone cement is used to secure the implanted prosthesis in the patient. A heater is then applied to the prosthesis to decrease the time required for the cement in contact with the prosthesis to cure or set. An adjustable heater control and temperature gauge are used to monitor and control the amount of heat applied to the prosthesis. A socket is provided on the heater such that a tip designed to couple with the particular type of prosthesis being implanted in the patient can be installed on the heater. One or more safety gauges are used to monitor the heater's operation to insure that an excessive amount of heat is not being applied.

Abstract: The present invention relates to heat transfer blankets which wrap the torso and/or legs leaving the arms, buttocks, perineum, knee, and/or head exposed and allow for the selective heating or cooling of various body parts at the same or different rates.

Abstract: A system and method for approaching the intervertebral disc through a percutaneous insertion from the back of a patient for thermal or electromagnetic treatment of an intervertebral disc, includes an elongated probe member having a guidable region adjacent its distal end with an undulating groove defined in its outer surface. The undulating groove is dimensioned to facilitate bending of the guidable region in at least one radial direction of movement relative to a longitudinal axis of the thermal probe. Preferably, the guidable region includes a plurality of undulating grooves, whereby adjacent undulating grooves are longitudinally spaced with respect to each other. The undulating grooves each define a sinusoidal configuration which may be arranged about an undulating axis extending in oblique relation to the longitudinal axis. The guidable region also includes a longitudinally extending backbone which resists bending of the guidable region in a radial direction of movement.

Abstract: Disclosed are a sheet-shaped heating element, which has the advantages of excellent attachability and no lateral displacement of a heat generating composition due to its load, and a method for preparing the same. The sheet-shaped heating element is characterized in that the film or sheet is formed with multiple cells having a height of 0.1-50 mm, a width of 1-100 mm and a distance oxidizable metal powder-containing between cells of 0.1-50 mm, and an oxidizable metal powder-containing heat generating composition is filled in the cells, and a pressure sensitive adhesive or a pharmacologically active material-containing adhesive matrix is attached to the bottom face of the heating element. Such flexible heating element can be attached to bendable portions of humans or animals and is not detached even after the heat generating composition is cured.

Abstract: Methods and devices for preventing a change in the core body temperature of a mammal under cold conditions are provided. In the subject methods, a requirement for thermal energy input in said mammal is first detected. In response to the detection of this requirement for thermal energy input, a surface of a portion of the mammal is contacted with a warm temperature medium under negative pressure conditions for a period of time sufficient to introduce thermal energy into the core body of the mammal. The subject devices include at least a means for detecting a requirement for thermal energy input and a means for contacting a surface of the mammal with a warm temperature medium under negative pressure conditions. The subject methods and devices find use in a variety of applications, and are particularly suited for use in maintaining the core body temperature of a mammal substantially constant under cold conditions for an extended period of time.

Abstract: An inventive medical thermal exchange pad is provided that includes a pliable fluid containing layer and at least a first plurality of adjacent fluid channels of coincidental configurations with the fluid containing layer. A second plurality of fluid channels may also be provided in the fluid containing layer, wherein the second plurality of fluid channels are of coincidental configurations different than those of the first plurality of fluid channels. The pad may be defined to include a central segment with one or more flap segments separately and pivotably interconnected to the central segment. In particular, a plurality of side flap segments may be provided, wherein U-shaped portions of one of the first and second plurality of fluid channels extend through at least one of the side flap segments. Further, end flap segment may be provided. In one embodiment, fluid inlet and outlet ports to/from fluid circulation layer may be disposed in the end flap segment.

Abstract: A method and system for treating skin. The method comprises deforming the skin so that a region of skin protrudes from surrounding skin, and applying radio frequency (RF) energy to the skin. The system comprises a skin deformer that deforms a region of skin so that a region of skin protrudes out from surrounding skin. The system also comprises one or more RF elemodes configured to apply RF energy to the skin. The invention may be used to treat subcutaneous adipose tissue and cartage.

Abstract: A device for providing thermal therapy to the perineal and rectal areas of a patient is provided. The device can be used alone or in conjunction with an absorbent pad. The device is particularly useful for alleviating post-partum swelling and pain. Different embodiments of the device can be used to provide either hot or cold therapy to a patient.

Abstract: A device for thermally affecting tissue of a patient includes a housing defining an interior volume that is at least partially insertable into an exterior opening in a patient. A thermal member positioned within the interior volume of the housing includes a thermal input side and a thermal output side to impart a thermal change to the tissue.

Abstract: An inventive medical thermal exchange pad is provided that includes a pliable fluid containing layer and at least a first plurality of adjacent fluid channels of coincidental configurations with the fluid containing layer. A second plurality of fluid channels may also be provided in the fluid containing layer, wherein the second plurality of fluid channels are of coincidental configurations different than those of the first plurality of fluid channels. The pad may be defined to include a central segment with one or more flap segments separately and pivotably interconnected to the central segment. In particular, a plurality of side flap segments may be provided, wherein U-shaped portions of one of the first and second plurality of fluid channels extend through at least one of the side flap segments. Further, end flap segment may be provided. In one embodiment, fluid inlet and outlet ports to/from fluid circulation layer may be disposed in the end flap segment.

Abstract: A cooling body wrap for rapidly inducing hypothermia, includes: (a) a fluid-impermeable, flexible, conformable envelope; (b) a mixture of from about 20 to about 90 weight % of alkanes having a carbon chain length of between 10 and 14, and from about 10 to about 80 weight % of a gel or viscous fluid carrier in which the alkanes are relatively evenly distributed, the mixture being sealed within the envelope; (c) at least one layer of insulation adjacent to a first side of the envelope; and (d) fastening means for fastening the body wrap around a body part.

Abstract: An improved patient temperature exchange system and method is disclosed for use with one or more interconnectable patient contact pads. In one embodiment, the system includes a circulating pump for drawing fluid through the interconnected pad(s) under negative pressure, and for pumping the fluid through one of more heat exchange devices into a circulating reservoir. A make-up reservoir may be provided for gravity fluid flow into the circulating reservoir during the filling of the interconnectable pad(s) and for receiving fluid upon emptying of the interconnectable pad(s). During normal heating/cooling operations, the circulated fluid does not pass through the make-up reservoir, thereby yielding a highly responsive system. The make-up and circulatory reservoirs may be directly interconnected, with the make-up reservoir maintained at atmospheric pressure (e.g. via a non-spill vent).

Abstract: Apparatus and a system for thermally comforting a patient include pneumatic, convective device providing thermal treatment for persons or animals. The pneumatic convective device is adapted to fit around a person's neck and provides convective warming focused or directed primarily on the thorax or body core. The pneumatic convective device includes an inlet, a region in distribution with the inlet for distributing a stream of pressurized, thermally treated air, and a permeable member for emitting pressurized, thermally treated air from the distribution region.

Abstract: A steam-generating unit that is applied to the skin or the mucous membranes has a steam-generating part that employs chemical energy, and the surface applied to the skin or mucous membranes is made from a moisture-permeable sheet. The temperature of the steam generated by the steam-generating part and released from the surface of the steam-generating unit is kept to 50° C. or lower. Steam that is as safe as that from a steam towel can be easily and continuously supplied to the skin and mucous membranes by this steam-generating unit.

Abstract: A pad comprises a bag, an inner lining, a specific volume of liquid. The bag provides an inner space after being sealed. The inner lining is made of three dimensional textile with a size corresponding to the inner space of the bag so as to be inserted into the bag. The specific volume of liquid is poured into the bag.

Abstract: Developed in response to need of effective, long lasting, cooling therapy for women of menopause and for body overheating. This self-adhering cotton fabric cold strip is to be worn as a wrist band, or a ankle band. The self-adhering cotton fabric cold strip has an envelope defining a sealed cold strip volume. A cooling gelatinous material is positioned in the cold strip volume. A bandage sheet is fixed to the envelope. The bandage sheet defines a bandage adhesive for temporary adhesion of the cold strip to the skin surface of a user. The self-adhesive envelope contains a cooling gelatinous material which reduces the body temperature. The reduction of the body temperature brings relief that is convenient, portable, and lasts for hours. The cold strip is to be worn for a period of hours and is then disposed and replaced with another cold strip. The self-adhering cotton fabric cold strip will be produced with different colors of cloth.

Abstract: An improved patient temperature exchange system and method is disclosed for use with one or more interconnectable patient contact pads. In one embodiment, the system includes a circulating pump for drawing fluid through the interconnected pad(s) under negative pressure, and for pumping the fluid through one of more heat exchange devices into a circulating reservoir. A make-up reservoir may be provided for gravity fluid flow into the circulating reservoir during the filling of the interconnectable pad(s) and for receiving fluid upon emptying of the interconnectable pad(s). During normal heating/cooling operations, the circulated fluid does not pass through the make-up reservoir, thereby yielding a highly responsive system. The make-up and circulatory reservoirs may be directly interconnected, with the make-up reservoir maintained at atmospheric pressure (e.g. via a non-spill vent).

Abstract: A thermal blanket includes an inflatable covering with a head end, a foot end, two edges and an undersurface. The covering includes a plurality of inflatable chambers that are inflated when a thermally-controlled inflating medium is introduced into the thermal blanket through an inlet at the foot end. When inflated, the thermal blanket self-erects into a structure and provides a bath of thermally-controlled inflating medium to the interior of the erected structure through an aperture array on the undersurface of the inflatable covering. The thermal blanket includes a first aspect in which the inflatable chambers in the covering are oriented for substantially longitudinal disposition over a portion of a patient's body extending from the pelvic area to the feet of the patient's body. This aspect may include a provision for securing the inflatable covering to the patient's body at the head end and an uninflatable foot drape at the foot end.