Abstract: A breast form prosthesis of the type commonly used in post-mastectomy procedures comprising a soft flexible film envelope having a triangular periphery. The breast form outer surface is of a convex configuration while the inner surface is a concave configuration, the inner and outer surfaces blending at a thin tapered highly flexible periphery. The periphery is substantially planar and projections homogeneously formed of the material of the form located on the inner surface and disposed on opposite sides of the upper peripheral apex having flat surfaces engaging the wearer simultaneously configure the top of the breast form to provide an improved fit and produce a natural appearance.

Abstract: A portable and collapsible cradle for supporting any shaped breast prosthesis such as but not limited to a triangular shape, a teardrop shape and an asymmetrical shape in a natural nondeformed state. The platform has upside down U-shaped rods pivotally connected to one another by pins. Chains and cords having one expanded position and one collapsible position allow the rods to form a cross orientation to one another. A flexible material having a central stretchable portion surrounded by a fabric material is supported in a trampoline fashion by the rods. Fasteners such as hook and loop, and snaps allow flap edges on the material to wrap about portions of the U-shaped rods and the chains/cords. The stretchable portion of the material allows for all types of breast prosthesis to be supported in a natural undeformed state. The material can include filly doily edges for giving the cradle a pleasingly aesthetic appearance when assembled.

Abstract: A method for forming the outer surface of a breast prosthesis is disclosed. A digital, three-dimensional image is formed of a patient's breast using a computerized scanner. A computer-controlled milling machine utilizes the image to form a solid model of the breast. A sheet of flexible, moldable material having a uniform, precise thickness is then vacuum-formed over the breast model. A hard, two-piece mold is cast from the flexible sheet. A soft, curable material is then either poured or injected between the two pieces of the mold to form the breast prosthesis outer surface. The breast prosthesis outer surface is then turned inside out to form a shape that is a mirror image of the patient's breast.

Abstract: An improved breast prosthesis or mammary implant (20), is provided of a type known per se, comprising a single or multiple lumen elastic shell or envelope (23), for example of molded silicone, in which an aperture formed in the shell for removal from a mold is subsequently sealed with a silicone patch (24), thus forming internal lumen(s) which can then be filled by either the manufacturer or the surgeon with a fluid or gel. A substantially seamless join between the patch and the shell is formed by means of an aperture with a chamfered edge (22), and applying and bonding a patch to one side, preferably the inside, of the shell such that a seamless and ridgeless join between the patch and the shell is formed to the exterior. A method and apparatus for performing a chamfer trimming operation and applying the patch are also disclosed. A double chamfer aperture edge construction filled in with an overlay patch and an underlay patch is also disclosed.

Abstract: An external prosthesis and a method for affixing the prosthesis to the user by means compliantly housed magnets interacting with surgical steel implants inserted beneath the skin of the user. The implants are surgical steel buttons coated with methylmethacrylate to avoid the release of corrosion products and silastic, a biocompatible material. The implant is inserted beneath the patient's skin along with a biocompatible mesh material to provide additional strength. A flexible carrier is formed with a hollow cylindrical shape to allow a magnet to move freely within the carrier. The opening of the flexible carrier is covered with a mesh. The flexible carrier/magnet/mesh combination is formed into the prosthesis so that the prosthesis aligns with the surgical steel implants and allows freedom of movement within the flexible carrier. The mesh material allows for breathability and also avoids skin strangulation from excess pressure of the magnet on the surgical steel implant.

Abstract: A process for producing a breast prosthesis having substantially cup-shaped prosthesis body. The first step in the process includes placing at least two plastic foils on top of each other. The next step involves shaping these foils into a pouch-like container. Once the pouch like container is formed, the edges of each plastic foil are joined to form at least two chambers. Next, at least one chamber is filled with material wherein the first material in the chamber is partially vulcanized. The second chamber is then filled with a second material. Finally, the prosthesis is cured in a molding die.

Abstract: A figure adjusting pad capable of permitting mold release to be readily carried out, being significantly improved in air-permeability, preventing a wearer from having an unpleasant feeling toward it when it is worn and eliminating ply separation with use. The figure adjusting pad includes a pad body including a foamed layer increased in air-permeability and arranged on a rear side thereof and a silicone gel layer arranged on a front side thereof which are laminated on each other. The pad also includes a cover sheet for covering an outer surface of the pad body, which includes a facing sheet for covering a front side of the pad body and a backing sheet for covering a rear side of the pad body. The facing sheet includes a knitted web increased in stretchability arranged on a front side thereof and a polyurethane film arranged on a rear side thereof and laminated on the knitted web.

Abstract: Filling device and method for use in manufacturing of gel filled prostheses which provides fast and accurate filling of prosthesis shells without deterioration of the gel or induction of air into the prosthesis. The filling method utilizes a dual port cannula for penetrating a preslit fill port on a prosthesis shell, the cannula having one port coupled through a flexible tube to a peristaltic pump supplied with gel under pressure, and a second port coupled through a flexible tube to a vacuum system. The cannula and prosthesis shell being filled are supported on a scale, with the flexible tubes being disposed so that pressure variations in the tubes do not effect the scale readings.

Abstract: A breast prosthesis in the form of an elongated body tapering off towards th ends is substantially made of a hardened plastic resin with gel properties and has a convex upper surface and a substantially planar to slightly convex lower surface, whereby the upper and the lower surfaces in a plan view of the body are delimited by two circular arcs intercepting one another at two points of interception.

Abstract: An improvement on liquid sac type brassieres including brassieres having a left cup and a right cup each of which has a sac disposed therein. The sac is comprised of two tough water-impermeable soft plastic sheets fused together to form a bag-like container for receiving a required volume of liquid. The surface of the soft plastic sheet on the inner side of the sac is provided with a plurality of finger-like soft massaging bosses. The wavy motion of the liquid inside the sacs cause the soft massaging bosses to press and massage the acupuncture points around the user's breasts to stimulate breast blood circulation and metabolism.

Abstract: A rheologically modified, osmotically balanced dispersion for an implant for the body. The dispersion includes an osmotic control agent of preferably polyvinylpyrrolidinone, a rheological agent of preferably guar gum, and an antimicrobial. Methods for filling an implant are also disclosed. The osmotic control agent or first polymeric agent is present in the dispersion in an amount effective to substantially balance the osmotic pressure of the implant with the osmotic pressure of the portion of the body into which it is implanted. The rheological agent or second polymeric agent forms a three-dimensional network and is present in the dispersion in an amount effective such that the fill material is pseudoplastic. Both the first and second polymeric agents are biocompatible.

Abstract: A method for coating objects with silicone that includes the steps of preparing the silicone material; applying the silicone material onto a surface that is resistant to adhesion to silicone, such as an acetate film layer or the inside surface of an open air mold; allowing the silicone material to sufficiently cure to allow for bonding to an object; pressing the object against the silicone material; allowing the silicone material to bond to the outer surface of the object; and then removing the object from the surface resistant to adhesion to the silicone material.

Abstract: An improved mammary prosthesis for implantation in humans comprising: a soft, flexible outer membrane forming an enclosure for receiving a filler material; an enhanced, undulating, random sculptured, irregular, substantially smooth surface of peaks, valleys, slopes and terraces without interstices disposed over at least a portion of said outer membrane; an internal structure within said membrane for supporting said outer membrane and providing an enhanced, life-like look and feel to the prosthesis; and a soft, partially-deformable, elastic filler material received within said outer membrane and cooperating with said internal structure to support said outer membrane.

Abstract: A new soft tissue implant filling material is disclosed. The surgically implantable soft tissue implant filling material has good aesthetic properties, as measured by viscosity and elasticity, and good elimination properties. One embodiment of such a new filling material is a gel which comprises three components. The first component is a water soluble polymer or hydrogel that has a high molecular weight. Alternatively, the first component is both crosslinked and has a high molecular weight. The second component of the filling material is a water-soluble polymer that is eliminated rapidly through the kidneys upon subcutaneous release. The third component of this filling material is saline, which is used to dissolve the polymer and to adjust the osmolality of the polymer. In addition, a buffer may be added to the filling material to adjust the pH of the gel. One gel formulation of the present invention, in its preferred embodiment, consists of polyacrylamide and derivatives thereof.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a breast prosthesis comprising two shell-like bodies (2, 3) each welded in between synthetic resin films and consisting of silicone compositions of different softness, wherein the outer body (2) designed according to the form of a breast has a hardness which is adapted to the soft-elastic resiliency of the natural breast tissue, and the inner body (3) has a softer gel-like consistency, wherein the prosthesis is provided with an adhesive layer (4) manufactured to be permanently tacky in its marginal zone on its rear side, a first section (4a) of the adhesive layer (4) being arranged on the outer prosthesis body (2) and a second section (4b) of the adhesive layer (4) being arranged on the inner body (3).

Abstract: A lightweight breast prosthesis having a first section and a second section. The first section having a gel-like consistency simulating the human breast and the second section containing a density-reducing agent to provide a lightweight prosthesis which provides excellent mimicking of the human breast form.

Abstract: An attachable two-chamber breast prosthesis includes two volumes of silicone materials that have different degrees of softness. The prosthesis includes three pieces of polyurethane film (a front film, a middle film, and a rear film) that form a front chamber and rear chamber. The periphery of the front chamber is smaller than the periphery of the rear chamber. The rear chamber, which contains the firmer silicone material, extends to the peripheral edge of the prosthesis. The front chamber, which contains the softer silicone material, does not extend all the way to the peripheral edge along the upper region of the prosthesis. By increasing the thickness of the rear chamber along a boomerang-shaped region defined by the peripheries of the front and rear chambers, the firmer silicone material in the rear chamber provides the prosthesis with proper support and reduces the tendency of the prosthesis to pull away from the skin along the top edge of the prosthesis.

Abstract: A breast prosthesis and an underwire adapted to retain the breast prosthesis. The breast prosthesis is affixed to the underwire by an attachment fixture molded into the posterior (or chest side) of the prosthesis. The attachment fixture, a female plug, is complementary to a retention fixture, a male plug, molded into a loop on the underwire. The loop of the underwire is adapted to provide a spring bias of the male plug against the chest wall of the wearer for a secure and comfortable fit and to provide sensory feedback as to the correct positioning of the prosthesis. The attachment fixture and the retention fixture are preferably essentially spherical in outline so as to form a ball and socket connection. The underwire is carried by a bandeau which may be removably attached to an unmodified bra.

Abstract: A breast implant comprising a plurality of bags filled with a fluid and each having, when at rest, a predetermined configuration. Each of the bags is defined by a flexible membrane. A means, particularly an outer shell, is provided to hold the bags together.

Abstract: A water bag type brassiere mounted in one cup of a brassiere and having a valve partially projecting to the outside through which the volume of contained fluid in the padding can be adjusted with a syringe, the valve including a rubber valve body and a rubber binding sleeve sleeved onto the rubber valve body, the valve body having longitudinal center hole at its heat outside the padding, and a split forced to close by the binding sleeve, the split being opened to let fluid pass when a needle of a syringe is inserted into the longitudinal center hole of the valve body.

Abstract: The breast appliance and method of making of the present invention is adaptive to a variety of situations ranging from a first embodiment where impressions of both breasts of a client are available for molding, a second embodiment where a single breast is available for molding, a third embodiment where a sensitive nipple or an augmentative breast appliance is to be formed, and a fourth embodiment where breast appliances are formed from a client having neither breast available for molding.If client's impression is made before surgery, a positive impression can be made directly from a negative mold. A molded silicone form or clay form is used to prepare a breast appliance front mold and a breast appliance back mold. Skin type nipple and breast skin silicone is first introduced into the mold before closure. After closure, a silicone gel is introduced into the cured skin silicone envelope, with removal of air and bubbles using an exit tube.

Abstract: The breast appliance and method of making of the present invention is adaptive to a variety of situations ranging from a first embodiment where impressions of both breasts of a client are available for molding, a second embodiment where a single breast is available for molding, a third embodiment where a sensitive nipple or an augmentative breast appliance is to be formed, and a fourth embodiment where breast appliances are formed from a client having neither breast available for molding.If client's impression is made before surgery, a positive impression can be made directly from a negative mold. A molded silicone form or clay form is used to prepare a breast appliance front mold and a breast appliance back mold. Skin type nipple and breast skin silicone is first introduced into the mold before closure. After closure, a silicone gel is introduced into the cured skin silicone envelope, with removal of air and bubbles using an exit tube.

Abstract: A figure adjusting pad is capable of permitting mold release to be readily carried out and is significantly improved in air-permeability, thus preventing a wearer from having an unpleasant feeling toward it when it is worn, and eliminating ply separation with use. The figure adjusting pad includes a pad body including a foamed layer increased in air-permeability and arranged on a wrong side thereof and a silicone gel layer arranged on a right side thereof, which are laminated on each other. The pad also includes a cover sheet for covering an outer surface of the pad body, which includes a facing sheet for covering a front side of the pad body and a backing sheet for covering a rear side of the pad body. The facing sheet includes a knitted web increased in stretchability arranged on a front side thereof and a polyurethane film arranged on a rear side thereof and laminated on the knitted web.

Abstract: A breast prosthesis and an underwire bra adapted to retain the breast prosthesis. The breast prosthesis is affixed to the underwire bra by an attachment fixture molded into the posterior (or chest side) of the prosthesis. The attachment fixture, a female plug, is complementary to a retention fixture, a male plug, molded into a loop on the underwire of the bra. The loop of the underwire is adapted to provide a spring bias of the male plug against the chest wall of the wearer for a secure and comfortable fit and to provide sensory feedback as to the correct positioning of the prosthesis.

Abstract: A pair of inflatable prosthesis sacs are insertable in two cup portions of an adjustable brassiere each sac including an elastic foam core formed in between an outer layer and an inner layer made of elastic materials, an inflating device directly connectable with a prosthesis check valve formed on the sac for inflating the sac, and a deflating device formed on the sac for deflating the sac, thereby eliminating an air tube connected between an air pump and a brassiere cup in order for making a compact brassiere for its comfortable wearing.

Abstract: Naturally-derived bioprosthetic materials are treated with epoxide crosslinking agents. In some embodiments, the tissue is crosslinked with low molecular weight epoxides in aqueous solutions at high pH levels. In other embodiments, the tissue is crosslinked at physiologic pH levels with epoxide crosslinking agents catalyzed with tertiary or quaternary amines, such as Tris or imidazole. In an advantageous embodiment, bioprosthetic tissue is crosslinked and derivatized with an anticalcification agent, such as a polyphosphonate anticalcification agent, using a polyphosphonate:polyepoxide monoadduct.

Abstract: A new soft tissue implant filling material is disclosed. The material may be polyvinylpyrollidone, polyvinyl alcohol, hydroxypropylmethyl cellulose, polyethylene oxide, hyaluronic acid, sodium or calcium alginate, hydrogel polyurethane, hydroxyethyl starch, polyglycolic acid, polyacrylamide, hydroxyethylmethacrylate (HEMA), and several naturally derived biopolymers including sodium kinate, seaweed, and agar.

Abstract: Testicular prosthesis and method of manufacturing wherein the testicular prosthesis has a saline or other biologically safe fluid filled silicone elastomer shell which includes a self-sealing injection site for filling the prosthesis and a tab for suturing the testicular prosthesis into position in the scrotum. A method of filling and a method of identifying and serialization is also provided.

Abstract: Testicular prosthesis and method of manufacturing wherein the testicular prosthesis has a saline or other biologically safe fluid filled silicone elastomer shell which includes a self-sealing injection site for filling the prosthesis and a tab for suturing the testicular prosthesis into position in the scrotum. A method of filling and a method of identifying and serialization is also provided.

Abstract: A breast prosthesis to be worn on the body of a person who has had a mastectomy includes a soft-elastic prosthetic body made of two plastic sheets which are connected to each other along a common edge, with a plastic mass being contained hollow-free between the plastic sheets. The prosthetic body has a front side resembling in its form the natural breast and a rear side which faces the wearer's body. A fabric member covers the rear side and is attached solely to the peripheral edge of the plastic sheets of the prosthetic body to thereby increase the comfort of wearing the breast prosthesis. The fabric member is suitably made of thermoplastic material, with the welding of the plastic sheets and the welding of the fabric member with the plastic sheets being carried out in a single working step.

Abstract: A breast prosthesis comprises a shell-like body of a two-component cross-linked soft elastic silicone rubber composition, which is welded in synthetic resin films, which cover over its inner and outer surfaces.In order to secure the breast prosthesis directly to the skin of the user, the prosthesis is so designed that on its rear side, in a marginal zone, it is furnished with a permanently adhesive layer.

Abstract: A fluid-filled mammary prosthesis for implantation beneath the skin of a patient comprising a shell and an adjunctive filler. The shell is preferably a closed silicone elastomer envelope having an interior volume and valve for filling. The filler material is a mixture of a fluid such as saline and an adjunct consisting of a plurality of hollow silicone beads having two or more fenestrations within the wall of each bead which provide fluid communication between the outside of the bead and the hollow interior. The beads are packed into the shell prior to the introduction of fluid into the interior of the shell. The beads serve as a baffle to prevent unwanted hydraulic behavior of the fluid portion of the filler material and also serve to help maintain the anatomical profile of the implant. The hollow beads, which range in size from about 7/32 inch to 1/2 inch in inside diameter, may be conveniently made by injection molding.

Abstract: An implantable prosthetic device having a biocompatible elastomeric shell and a polyphasic filler material consisting of gas-filled chambers or beads bathed in a biocompatible fluid. In a preferred embodiment the solid and gaseous phases of the filler comprise interconnecting flexible chains of small gas-filled beads. The gas-filled beads may be continuously extruded in a chain with a fiber of extrudate connecting the beads. In one embodiment, the extruded chains of beads are formed into a mass having the desired shape of the prostheses where they may be further crosslinked, then placed within an outer shell. The void space between the beads is filled with a biocompatible fluid such as saline. The polyphasic filler preferably has a density which is less than or equal to the density of the surrounding tissue thereby reducing microtrauma to the capsule associated tissue and the incidence and/or severity of capsular contracture.

Abstract: A siloxane composition is described comprising a polydiorganosiloxane have at least two unsaturated hydrocarbon groups per molecule, a polyorganohydrosiloxane network crosslinker that has at least three Si--H bonds per molecule, a silane or siloxane crosslinker that has at one --SiH.sub.3 group, a hydrosilation catalyst, and, optionally, a siloxane rheological control agent. The composition allows gels to be prepared that exhibit good adhesion to various substrates, and can also be used to temporarily inhibit catalyst activity. Prostheses and coatings can be produced with these compositions.

Abstract: This invention relates to a novel polycarbonate-based block polymer, and to fibers and bioresorbable implantable medical devices fabricated from said fibers.

Abstract: Described is an artificial mamma and a series of molds for producing the mamma, in which the mamma comprises a bag-like member which has as a skin a thick film member made of silicon rubber and interposing therein an elastic fabric as a core enclosing air internally, the thick film member being partially larger in thickness to provide a point where an air injection needle is inserted. The mold for producing the mamma can be constructed from ordinary materials and without the need for specialized technicians.

Abstract: A breast augmentation device made from flexible rubber, having a breast-shaped front part and a hollow, rounded rear part for covering over the breast, wherein the rear part has a plurality of elongated grooves with vent holes and a plurality of elongated ribs, each elongated groove having at least one end perpendicularly connected to the periphery of the orifice of the hollow, rounded rear part, each elongated rib having a center portion and two opposite ends extended from the center portion and perpendicularly connected to the periphery of the orifice, the height of each elongated rib reducing gradually from the respective center portion toward the respective opposite ends.

Abstract: A fluid-filled breast prosthesis for surgical implantation beneath the skin having a wrinkle resistent, elastic outer shell which is adapted to resist deformation or wrinkling during movement of the fluid filler. The outer shell, or envelope, has superior and inferior portions. The wall of the superior portion of the shell is substantially thickened with respect to the wall thickness of the inferior portion of the shell. The shell forms an envelope with an inner cavity which is filled with a biocompatible liquid such as saline. The presence of the thickened superior portion of the shell prevents wrinkles from forming in the breast prosthesis during fluid displacement such as occurs when the breast prosthesis recipient changes her anatomical position. The differentially thickened shell has a posterior base portion which may be reinforced to further stabilize the prosthesis.

Abstract: A breast prosthesis to be worn in a top part of a bathing suit includes a cup-shaped prosthetic body made of soft plastic material and having a rear side which faces a wearer's body and defines a cavity. At least one stiffening rib projects radially from the rear side in a straight line and uninterrupted into the cavity between the upper rim surface and the lower rim of the prosthetic body.

Abstract: An artificial breast form is disclosed which includes contoured, molded breast shape layers that can be sculptured by the user to create a cosmetically acceptable appearance. The artificial breast form package for insertion between a brassiere and a breast comprises a cover with adhesive nylon tape surface to adhere to the inner cup of the brassiere, an external molded layer abutting against the cover, an internal molded layer abutting against the external molded layer, and a back molded layer located between the internal layer and a breast. The cover can include lace trim or a picot edge. The cover can be one of stretch lace, stretch sheer, stretch matte jersey or stretch cotton knit. cover The external molded layer, the internal molded layer and the back layer are formed from any one of polyurethane, silicone and foam rubber. The external molded layer can be a wafer layer sculpted in the shape of a breast with an optional side flange.

Abstract: A surgically implantable prosthetic device wherein dry particles of hydrogel/silicone combinations are contained within an envelope. The dry character of the device allows it to be sterilized without adverse affect, while injection of water or physiological fluid after implantation causes it to swell to proper size and texture.

Abstract: A cosmetic or prosthetic surgical implant comprising an envelope filled with a liquid bioabsorbable polymer and a process for implanting a cosmetic or prosthetic surgical implant involving the filling of an envelope with a liquid bioabsorbable polymer suitable liquid bioabsorbable polymer include lactone copolymers composed of at least two monomers selected from the group consisting of glycolide, L-lactide, D,L-lactide, 1,4-dioxanone, .epsilon.-caprolactone, 1,5-dioxepan-2-one and trimethylene carbonate and poly(orthoesters) of the formula: ##STR1## where R is a linear or branched alkylene group containing 3 to 10 carbon atoms and R' is a linear or branched alkyl group containing 1 to 10 carbon atoms and n is selected to provide a liquid poly(orthester) at body temperature.

Abstract: An encapsulated gel breast prosthesis and method of manufacturing therefor is provided wherein a nipple/areola member and gelled breast body are disposed within an inner skin and outer skin which define the exterior shape of the breast prosthesis. The nipple/areola member has a shape, color and hardness simulating the natural shape, color and hardness of a human breast. The encapsulated gel breast prosthesis is fabricated by forming an outer skin and an inner skin. The outer skin is shaped to simulate the natural contour of a woman's breast and includes a region corresponding to the nipple and areola of the breast. A nipple/areola member having a shape, color and hardness, which simulates the natural shape, color and hardness of a woman's nipple and areola is disposed between the outer and inner skins which are then sealed together along their peripheries. This forms a capsule with the nipple/areola member enclosed therein.

Abstract: A support for a breast prosthesis including a bra cup (of conventional design) which is attached to the perimeter of a cup support member. The cup support member also includes apparatus for positioning the cup from a horizontal surface a distance sufficient to prevent the cup, when holding a prosthesis, from touching such horizontal surface. The positioning apparatus is detachable.

Abstract: The invention relates to a method for producing a breast prosthesis in which a two-component addition cross-linkable soft elastic silicone rubber composition is introduced into a synthetic resin film constituting the inside and the outside of the prosthesis. The synthetic resin film filled with the as yet uncross-linked silicone rubber composition is arranged in a mold and silicone rubber composition is caused to cross-link with the development of heat. In order to improve upon the known method for the production of breast prostheses that the holding members to be attached may simply be arranged on the breast prosthesis and that the finished breast prosthesis has a neat appearance, in accordance with the invention at least one holding element, preferably in the form of an adhesive strip, is applied to the inner side of the breast prosthesis, by the activation of a hot-melt adhesive.

Abstract: A synthetic reconstructive surgical implant device and method for making the same in which the device is suitable for implanting in a human. The device includes a sealed prosthesis envelope having a predetermined shape when filled, with the envelope being formed from an elastic polymer having a microporous structure with a texturized or non-texturized surface, such as silicone, polyurethane, polyvinylalcohol polyethylene, polyesters, hydrogels, tetrafluroethylene and polytetrafluroethylene, fluorosilicone and mixtures thereof. The envelope is filled with a biocompatible viscoelastic material in an amount sufficient to provide the predetermined shape. The biocompatible viscoelastic material is a sterile, non-pyrogenic solution which, in a preferred embodiment may be selected from salts of chondrotin sulfate, salts of hyaluronate, hydroxyproplymethylcellulose and mixtures thereof.

Abstract: A kit for the repair of damaged prosthetic devices provides for the expeditious and economical repair of such prostheses. The kit is directed primarily to the repair of externally worn silicone gel filled breast prostheses, which prostheses are relatively costly and perhaps more vulnerable to damage than other types. The basic member of the kit is a thin, flexible adhesive backed tape of vinyl or other suitable material, which tape may be stored on a backing sheet. The backing sheets may be in the form of a roll, or alternatively several planar sheets may be included in a relatively flat container for persons who may not be able to conveniently carry a bulky roll. Several shapes and sizes of tapes may be included in a single kit, and different kits may include different coloring, shading and/or texture in order that the user may most closely approximate the proper coloring, shading and/or texture of the damaged prosthesis.

Abstract: A figure adjusting pad is capable of permitting a periphery of the pad to exhibit satisfactory shape retention without any independent core. The pad includes a silicone gel element formed therein with perforations and a stretchable fabric arranged for covering the silicone gel element and is trimmed. The perforations of the silicone gel element are formed by traces defined by elution of particles incorporated in a silicone gel stock solution for the silicone gel element. The trimmed portion includes the silicone gel element and is double-sewn together with the silicone gel element.

Abstract: The strength and integrity of hydrophilic polyurethane resins prepared by reacting a diol component, an organic chain extender and an organic diisocyanate are improved by critical selection of the diol component, the amount of water in the reaction mixture and the mole ratios of the reactants. The diol component is at least one of (1) a long chain poly(oxyethylene) glycol of molecular weight above 2500 and (2) a medium chain poly(oxyethylene) glycol or polyester glycol of 250-2500 molecular weight. The chain extender is a difunctional compound having a molecular weight of less than 250. The amount of water in the reaction mixture is 0.5 to 2.5 weight % and the urea content of the resins is from about 13.6 to 33.7 weight %.

Abstract: A phantom for use in training persons in locating and aspirating tumors identified by X-ray in a human body part consists of a body of a tissue equivalent X-ray permeable material containing at least one aspiratable simulated tumor suspended in the interior of the body. A method of making the phantom also is disclosed.