U.S. patent application number 10/591956 was filed with the patent office on 2008-01-03 for immobilizing and supporting inflatable splint apparatus.
This patent application is currently assigned to R & D SUPPORTS. Invention is credited to Asher Bin Nun, Daniel Reis, Dalia Zucker.
Application Number | 20080004555 10/591956 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 34920018 |
Filed Date | 2008-01-03 |
United States Patent
Application |
20080004555 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Reis; Daniel ; et
al. |
January 3, 2008 |
Immobilizing and Supporting Inflatable Splint Apparatus
Abstract
Disclosed is a medical device that operates as a supporting
splint for the limbs and other body parts necessary for the
treatment of a variety of medical and surgical conditions. Said
device is an inflatable, flexible, lightweight water-resistant
splint whose measure of rigidity is easily controlled by the fitter
or user. According to the present invention there are several
embodiments of the splint, each suited to fit a different body part
such as the limbs, torso, chest, pelvis, and neck. Said device,
which is constructed of inflatable tubes, is made of two nylon
layers welded together and coated with polyurethane. The tubes may
be inflated by any means of supplying air pressure. The present
invention is especially designed to allow normal blood circulation
to the treated body part, provide ventilation to the area, enable
easy inspection of an injury, and allow partial movement of the
treated part.
Inventors: |
Reis; Daniel; (Haifa,
IL) ; Zucker; Dalia; (Haifa, IL) ; Bin Nun;
Asher; (Carmiel, IL) |
Correspondence
Address: |
NATH & ASSOCIATES
112 South West Street
Alexandria
VA
22314
US
|
Assignee: |
R & D SUPPORTS
99 Hahistadrut Street,
Haifa
IL
31250
|
Family ID: |
34920018 |
Appl. No.: |
10/591956 |
Filed: |
November 7, 2006 |
PCT NO: |
PCT/IL05/00269 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
10797278 |
Mar 10, 2004 |
|
|
|
10591956 |
Nov 7, 2006 |
|
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Current U.S.
Class: |
602/13 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A61F 5/05816
20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
602/013 |
International
Class: |
A61F 5/058 20060101
A61F005/058 |
Claims
1. A splint for immobilizing and supporting a limb or other body
parts of a human, wherein said splint is made of flexible material
for covering body parts and articulations from at least three sides
and where said splint includes: a. inflatable tubes interconnected
by non-inflatable parts for achieving variable degrees of support,
stiffness and restriction of movement; b. ventilation holes for
skin ventilation, contained in the non-inflatable parts; c. at
least one gas pressure source device connected to said splint; d.
at least one adjustable strap for connecting splint edges; wherein
the inflated structure of the splint fits the structure and
anatomical shape of the appropriate body part for the purpose of
stabilizing and providing support to the patient's body part and
its articulations in varying degrees of rigidity and in particular
positions.
2. The splint of claim 1 for supporting limbs wherein a part of the
limb remains uncovered.
3. The splint according to claim 1, wherein the adjustable straps
are made of Velcro.
4. The splint according to claim 1, wherein said splint is designed
to wrap the torso, taking into account the structure of the body
and its anatomical shape for maximum compatibility.
5. The splint according to claim 1, wherein said splint is designed
to wrap to the neck, taking into account the neck's anatomical
shape and structure for maximum compatibility.
6. The splint according to claim 2, wherein said splint is designed
to wrap the leg, the foot, the ankle and the heel of the patient,
taking into account the leg's anatomical shape and structure for
maximum compatibility and preventing pressure on the heel.
7. The splint according to claim 2, wherein said splint is designed
to wrap the leg, the foot, the ankle, heel, knee and thigh of the
patient, talking into account the leg's anatomical shape and
structure for maximum compatibility and preventing pressure on the
heel.
8. The splint according to claim 2, wherein said splint is designed
to wrap the arm, fit the shoulder structure, and support the palm,
taking into account the arm's anatomical shape and structure for
maximum compatibility and immobilizing the shoulder joints or upper
and lower arm in any desired position.
9. The splint according to claim 1, wherein said splint is designed
to wrap the rib cage, wherein the inflated tubes are arranged in
segments that can be inflated separately in order to exert selected
pressure on different areas of the chest wall according to
necessity, taking into account the curves and structure of the ribs
for maximum compatibility.
10. The splint according to claim 1, wherein said splint is made of
two nylon layers joined together by soldering means.
11. The splint according to claim 1, wherein said splint is made of
two nylon layers which are coated with polyurethane.
12. The splint according to claim 1, wherein movement, rigidity,
and stabilization of said limb articulation are controlled by the
degree of air pressure in said splint.
13. The splint according to claim 1, wherein the pressure source
device is a mechanical pump.
14. The splint according to claim 1, wherein the pressure source
device is an electrical pump.
15. The splint according to claim 1, wherein the pressure source
device is a pressure canister.
16. The splint according to claim 1, wherein in the inflated state,
the splint takes up the shape of the body part for which it was
designed.
17. The splint according to claim 1, wherein the tightness of the
splint on the body part is controlled by the fastening or loosening
of straps.
18. The splint according to claim 1 further including a suspension
strap.
19. The splint according to claim 1, wherein pressure within the
splint is controlled by a valve.
20. The splint according to claim 1, wherein the adjustable strap
is detachable.
21. The splint according to claim 1, wherein the degree of rigidity
of the splint on the body part enables partial movement of the
wrapped joints.
22. The splint according to claim 1 further comprising at least one
loop connected to the edge of said splint for suspension purposes.
Description
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0001] The present invention relates to the field of medical
devices, and, more particularly, it relates to inflatable,
versatile/universal/multi purpose splints.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] The traditional techniques of providing external support and
immobilization in orthopedic conditions revolves around three
existing types of devices: casts, which have application primarily
in broken limbs; splints, which are used to immobilize and
stabilize the limbs and the torso; and pressure bandages, which
help control swelling and give a degree of support.
[0003] Creative individuals have come up with a variety of
departures from these standard themes in order to achieve better
patient treatment and recovery. Inflatable pouches made from
various materials exist, adapted to be filled with either liquid or
gas, and incorporating means for securing these pouches to and
tightening them around the injured part of a human body. Splints of
this kind effect the immobilization and compression of a limb or
other part of a human body.
[0004] One of the alternative devices is presented in U.S. Pat. No.
5,954,676. This device utilizes two sets of multi-layer deformable
materials, such as fiberglass shims located in pouches in first and
second members having re-sealable bladders of sheaths that provide
structural support on each side of the limb.
[0005] The main drawback of the device, which limits its
application considerably, relates to its fixed and inflexible shape
that does not take into consideration the three-dimensional form of
the limbs, joints and torso, for instance.
[0006] A different device is U.S. Pat. No. 5,288,286, which is an
adjustable pressure cast for orthopedic injuries. It is composed of
three sets of air chambers and is only designed for treating
orthopedic leg injuries such as fractures. As in the previous
patent, this device suffers from an inconvenient structure, which
may only support the calf, the ankle, and the foot of a patient
without conforming to the shape of these structures.
[0007] U.S. Pat. No. 6,719,711 describes a third type of device, an
inflatable splint with a series of modular sections that
independently wrap around an injured body part, each section
forming a circular structure that surrounds the injured limb. The
device requires multiple sections when encircling the joints or
various bends of the injured limb, as it is not designed to
accommodate the three-dimensional shape of the human body.
Furthermore, the circular shape of the fastened splint leaves no
openings for inspection of the injured area.
[0008] There is a need for a method and a concept for a lightweight
and convenient splint which adjusts to the shape of the limb,
joint, or other body part, and which may also provide steady
support to the trunk (i.e. spine, ribs, neck etc.), while at the
same time allowing free blood circulation and ventilation, and
enabling medical inspection of the injured area.
[0009] Such a device should further allow for as much functionality
as possible and allow rigidity and flexibility to be adjusted as
needed.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0010] In accordance with the shortcomings of previous art, it is a
principal object of the present invention to provide a splint
device which will present a maximum adjustment range, so it can be
easily and securely fitted to the injured body part, without
bringing about any uncomfortable chafing and minimizing overall
discomfort, that will also allow for adequate blood circulation to
the injured part, and will support the joints, limbs and any other
body parts in an optimal position with a controllable measure of
rigidity.
[0011] The present invention is aimed, in particular, at all those
conditions in which absolutely rigid support is not needed.
[0012] It is yet another object of the present invention to
introduce a multi purpose splint device that will be appropriate
for the treatment of a wide range of conditions such as fractures,
sprains, and post-operative support, that will prevent bedsores,
and that will allow for the inspection of various wounds. The
present invention provides a handy solution for the temporary
support of an injured limb in field conditions and while
transporting a patient, and can also be used as a long-term cast or
bandage during the full course of treatment, including
postoperative support.
[0013] The said splint offers solutions for the setting and
treatment of various areas of the body, such as the neck, limbs,
pelvis, spine, and chest areas. This novel splint answers the basic
need for a simple device that is easy to use, handle, store, and
transport.
[0014] It is yet another object of the present invention to offer a
practical solution to the needs of various medical teams such as
hospital staffs, EMS personnel, health care providers for the
elderly, and army and police emergency teams, as well as for use in
private homes.
[0015] The invention describes a splint designed to allow for an
adjustable and comfortable fit to different parts of the body,
which achieves maximum comfort and facilitates the recuperation
period. It is a simply structured splint, which allows for
uncomplicated assembly and operation. The splint is designed to fit
the shape of the body part in need of treatment. It provides
support and wrapping for the injured area from three sides. The
splint is made out of inflatable ribs. Using a hand pump or an air
pressure source tank, the ribs may be inflated to various degrees
that provide the optimum support and comfort required for the
particular conditions. Ventilation holes in the structure allow for
sufficient airing and circulation of the treated area. The splints
are secured into place by Velcro straps.
[0016] It is a further object of the present invention to allow the
user movement and function of the joint and limb or body part, even
at the site of the injury, to such a degree as is ordered by the
treating physician. This concept being in line with contemporary
knowledge on the healing of soft tissue wounds and bones. The
quality of healing is enhanced in certain phases of repair and
healing when controlled mechanical forces create a load on the
healing tissues and enable movement of the injured area.
[0017] The simplicity of the design in one single unit, and
assembly enables the medical or paramedical fitter or the patient
himself to apply, use, assemble, and adjust the splint with minimal
or no assistance.
[0018] The invention is the combination of inflated tubes with
flexible material between the tubes, so designed in specific shapes
for various bodies parts as to fit to the anatomical shape of the
specific part when wrapped around the part and held together by
means of Velcro straps.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0019] These and further features and advantages of the invention
will more clearly understood in the light of the ensuing
description of a preferred embodiment thereof, given by way of
example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings,
wherein--
[0020] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a first embodiment of the
invention in an unassembled and un-inflated condition.
[0021] FIG. 2 illustrates the first embodiment of the invention
assembled on a leg.
[0022] FIG. 2a illustrates a further example of the first
embodiment, assembled on the whole length of a leg.
[0023] FIG. 2b illustrates one example of an optional outrigger
that prevents rotation of the limb and the splint.
[0024] FIG. 2c illustrates another optional outrigger that folds in
the middle to allow projection to one side only.
[0025] FIG. 3 illustrates a cross section of the splint as
assembled on a leg.
[0026] FIG. 4 illustrates perspective view of a second embodiment
of the invention in an unassembled and un-inflated condition.
[0027] FIG. 5 illustrates a cross sectional view (section A) of the
second embodiment as illustrated in FIG. 4.
[0028] FIG. 6 illustrates the second embodiment of the invention
assembled on an arm.
[0029] FIG. 7 illustrates a cross sectional view (section B) of the
second embodiment as illustrated in FIG. 6.
[0030] FIG. 8 illustrates another example of the present invention
in the form of a vest for the treatment of fractures of the
ribs.
[0031] FIG. 8a is a side view of the same example of a vest for the
treatment of fractures of the ribs.
[0032] FIG. 9 illustrates an example of the present invention used
for shoulder, arm, and elbow support.
[0033] FIG. 9a is the same example seen from the side.
[0034] FIG. 10 illustrates an example of the present invention in
the form of a corset for compressing the pelvis in cases of pelvic
ring fractures.
[0035] FIG. 10a shows a cross section of the above example.
[0036] FIG. 10b is a perspective view of the pelvic corset in an
unassembled condition
[0037] FIG. 11 is a further example of the present invention, for
the wrist.
[0038] FIG. 12 illustrates an example of the present invention for
supporting the neck.
[0039] FIG. 12a is a side view of the same example for supporting
the neck.
[0040] FIG. 12b is the rear view of the same example for supporting
the neck.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0041] The present invention is a new and simple medical device,
aimed to help treat variety of general medical and surgical
conditions, including orthopedic, rheumatic, and rehabilitative
conditions, by supporting, splinting, and partially immobilizing
the injured body part in a desired position. It is a
comfortable-to-wear, lightweight device, which is simple and easy
to assemble, water-resistant, and demands very little storage
space. When deflated, the splint folds into a compact, flat
package. This multipurpose device facilitates emergency and
long-term treatments of different sorts of conditions, including
support for injuries, dislocations, fractures, post operative
conditions, and variety of diseases of the skeletal and local motor
system
[0042] The preferred embodiments of the invention are inflatable
and adjustable, suited to fit different body parts including the
limbs, chest, torso, spine, pelvis, and neck. The measure of air
pressure inflating the device and the manner of fastening it around
a body part are controllable and may be adjusted to suit the
specific needs of any given condition. The device is made from a
double layer of nylon coated by polyurethane, a flexible and
lightweight material that is also strong and waterproof.
[0043] According to known in the art research, it is advisable to
enable the injured person some mobility and functionality within
the splint as it contributes to the healing process. The present
invention provides the patient with a supporting splint that is
flexible enough to allow movement of nearby joints and even the
injured site itself.
[0044] FIG. 1 offers a general description of the first embodiment
of the invention, suited for foot & ankle injuries, in an
unassembled condition. The splint 10 is comprised of a main body 20
and two or more unattached adjustable straps: a front upper strap 6
and a front lower strap 7. When in use, parts 24, 25, 26a, and 26b
wrap the leg from three sides: part 24 encompasses the left side of
the leg and part 25 the right side, while the back of the leg is
wrapped by splint central part 26a and 26b. Connecting Velcro
surfaces 30 and 6 fasten the device around the calf, leaving the
anterior surface uncovered and visible in its whole length.
[0045] The lower right part 40a and left part 40b of the splint
wraps around the foot, while part 41 covers the sole of the foot.
Attaching Velcro straps 31 to strap 7 on top of the foot and strap
42a to 42b at the sole fastens the lower part of the splint for
supporting the lower part of the foot. FIG. 2 illustrates the
device as it is assembled on a leg 59.
[0046] Both the lower and the upper part of the splint have
ventilating holes 52 to increase the comfort during long term use
of the device, and at the edge of parts 40a and 40b there are loops
50 which, if necessary, allow for suspending the leg raised up on a
hook 55 to prevent it from swelling, as illustrated in FIG. 2.
[0047] Parts 24, 25, 26, 40, and 41 contain inflatable tubes. These
tubes are designed to wrap the leg, the foot, the ankle, and the
heel of the injured person, taking into account the leg's
anatomical shape and structure for maximum compatibility. The tubes
in the splint may be inflated using a hand pump 16 or other type of
pump, which is connected to the said tubes through pipe 5 and valve
17. Alternatively, an air pressure source can be connected to valve
17 and used for the same purpose. Once inflated, a valve 15 may be
used to open the airways and let the air out of the tubes.
Combining the effect of hand pump 16 and valve 15 allows for
achieving the desired pressure in the tubes resulting, in the
required stiffness of splint 10 around the leg, so that the needed
support is maintained and the movement and flexibility of the leg
is controlled without causing unnecessary discomfort. The pressure
that the air tubes create on the leg does not obstruct blood flow
to the leg, and ventilation holes 52 allow for sufficient airing of
the area. When inflated, the splint takes up the shape of the part
of the body for which it was designed, as FIG. 3 illustrates. An
optional monitor for measuring the pressure in the splint may be
added to the splint.
[0048] Control over the amount of pressure and the tightness of the
splint on the Leg is mainly achieved by tightening or loosening
Velcro straps 6 and 7 to splint Velcro 30 and 31 respectively. In a
different embodiment, Velcro straps 6 and 7 are stitched to one of
the sides of the splint body 20. As illustrated in FIG. 2, the
patient can easily reach said straps, which are located on the
front side of the leg, and the patient has convenient access to the
pump in order to adjust the level and volume of split air pressure
with minimal or no assistance, to achieve optimal results.
[0049] FIG. 2a shows a further example of the first embodiment of
the invention, which is a splint for the whole length of the leg up
to below the groin 106, with Velcro straps below the knee 107 and
above the knee 108. The insert shows that the position of the
straps can be adjusted at will by sliding the straps along the tape
at the back of the splint 109, or the straps can be fixed to the
body of the splint as in FIGS. 1 and 2, or the straps can be free
and separate from the splint. FIG. 2a also illustrates the
uncovered part of the leg along its entire anterior surface which
is an important principle of the invention when applied to a limb,
ensuring that the limb is never entirely encased in a circular
element which prevents inspection and creates the danger of
embarrassing the blood circulation
[0050] FIGS. 2b and 2c are optional outriggers for providing
additional support to the foot. FIG. 2b shows an outrigger 100 that
can be attached to the foot section of the splint 101 for the
purpose of preventing rotation of both the limb and splint 102,
103, and 104. Attachment is by Velcro strips at the points of
meeting with the splint under the heel and below the suspension
ears. Suspension, when desired, is by the reinforced perforations
105. FIG. 2c shows an outrigger 100 that folds in the middle 110,
as seen in the insert, to allow projection to one side only. This
embodiment is intended as a universal first aid splint and for
suitable conditions requiring support for the leg from the toes to
above the knee. The inner surface of the splint is so shaped as to
avoid pressure on the heel and malleoli. An outrigger can be used
also in different embodiments of the invention for correcting
deformities and preventing pressure sores, particularly for the
neck femur bone.
[0051] FIG. 3 illustrates a cross section of the splint as it is
assembled on a leg 59. In this illustration, it is easy to see that
the splint is designed to adjust to and fit the structure of the
body part (the leg 59, in this example) and its joints, one limb
surface remaining free with only the Velcro straps traversing that
surface.
[0052] The second embodiment of the invention is illustrated in
FIGS. 4, 5, 6, and 7 and is designed to be assembled on an arm. The
principles guiding the structure of this embodiment are similar to
those of the first embodiment; it differs from the first only in
that the second embodiment is intended to fit the structure and the
treatment of a human arm.
[0053] FIG. 4 illustrates the second embodiment in an unassembled
state. The main body of the splint is divided into two main parts:
for supporting the upper part of the arm 61a between the shoulder
and the elbow, and the lower part of the arm 61b between the elbow
and the wrists. Enclosing the main body 61 are Velcro straps 62 and
63 that connect to each other when the device is assemble on an
arm. The main part 61a contains an aperture for the shoulder 67 and
the main part 61b includes an aperture for the palm 66 and a
supporting surface for the palm 66 and hand 65.
[0054] Like the main body of the first embodiment, these two
sections are both comprised of inflatable tubes which, when
assembled on the arm, are designed to support the arm from three
directions. FIG. 5 displays a cross-section of the splint when it
is inflated and unassembled. This figure clearly shows the four
tubes a, b, c, and d in the splint. Velcro straps 62 and 63 connect
when the splint is assembled.
[0055] Also seen in FIG. 4 are the ventilating holes 68, similar to
the ones on the first embodiment of this invention 52, and a
support strap clip 64. This clip enables the attachment of straps
that transfer the weight of the hand to the shoulders or to the
waist. FIG. 6 illustrates the splint assembled on an arm. The
figure displays the two options of attaching the supporting straps:
a suspension strap 70 around the patience's neck and a strap
wrapped around the waist 71. The straps hook to the splint via said
clip 64.
[0056] FIG. 6 also clearly illustrates the function of the aperture
of the shoulder 67, the palm's aperture 66, and the supporting
surface for the palm 65. The structure of this embodiment of the
splint is suited to hold the arm in a comfortable 90-degree angle
at the elbow. FIG. 7 illustrates a cross section of the assembled
splint. This figure shows that the splint can provide support to
the arm from up to four directions.
[0057] Another embodiment of the present invention, shown in FIGS.
8 and 8a, is a vest splint 150, designed for the treatment of
fractures of the ribs or to support the rib cage or both. The
inflated tubes are arranged in segments 152 that can be inflated
separately in order to exert selected pressure on different areas
of the chest wall according to necessity. The inflatable rib-tubes
of the splint are aligned to follow the inclination of the rib
bones. The vest is wrapped around the chest, leaving two apertures
for the arms and is fastened in the front by Velcro straps 153.
[0058] For further clarification of the use and versatility of the
present invention, FIGS. 9 through 12a provide additional examples
of the various configurations that are possible with the present
invention.
[0059] FIG. 9 shows the present invention configured to provide
shoulder support 111, arm support 112, and elbow support 113,
together with a classic neck suspension 114, cross shoulder straps
115, and body straps 116. An optional inflated cushion 117 between
the chest wall and the arm prevents pressure and ventilates the
armpit. Velcro straps 118 attach the splint from the front of the
arm and forearm. FIG. 9a shows the same shoulder support seen from
the side. The inflated tubes 119 and 120 can be variously arranged
in any direction-longitudinal 119 or transverse 120--in order to
create a well-shaped housing fitted to the body part when attached
with the Velcro straps 118 that close around the front of the arm
and forearm.
[0060] FIG. 10 shows an example of a corset arrangement for
compressing the pelvis in cases of pelvic ring fractures. The
uninflated corset is tightly wrapped round the pelvis and Velcro
straps 122 are firmly secured over an inflatable abdominal pillow
123. Inflating the corset through valve 124 exerts circular
pressure to stabilize the pelvis and inflating the abdominal pillow
123 through valve 125 pressurizes the abdominal cavity to aid the
cessation of bleeding. FIG. 10a is a cross-section of FIG. 10 at
A-A to show the wrap of the inflated tubes 126 around the pelvis
and the pressure of the pillow 123 on the abdominal cavity 127,
which can be adjusted by the tightness of the Velcro straps 122 and
the degree of inflation of the tubes of the corset. FIG. 10b
describes the pelvic corset, showing the longitudinal tubes 126
interspaced with tubeless material 129 to allow the wrap around the
pelvis and the arrangement of straps 122 with their Velcro
attachment areas 130.
[0061] FIG. 11 is a splint organized for the wrist with inflated
tubes on the forearm 131 and on the back of the hand 132, which
allows movement at the wrist. Attachment is by Velcro bands across
the palm 133 and around the forearm 134. The front of the palm,
wrist, and forearm are visible for inspection. A narrow sleeve,
which has a hand section 135 and a forearm section 136, is for the
insertion of rod extensions of a universal joint should it be
desired to position the wrist in any special configuration.
[0062] FIGS. 12, 12a, and 12b show the front, side and back of a
model of the present invention for supporting the neck. The
inflatable tubes 140 are interspersed with non-tubed areas 141 to
allow for wrapping the splint around the neck. Fastening is at the
front or side with Velcro. An aperture 142 allows access to the
trachea.
[0063] These unique designs for the splints, as described, allow
for setting and stabilizing the injured body part while providing a
controlled range of flexibility, ensuring the necessary support of
the injured area, and improving the course of treatment for better
results.
[0064] While the above description contains many specifities, these
should not be construed as limitations on the scope of the
invention, but rather as exemplifications of the preferred
embodiments. Those skilled in the art will envision other possible
variations that are within its scope. Accordingly, the scope of the
invention should be determined not by the embodiment illustrated,
but by the appended claims and their legal equivalents.
* * * * *