Vibration anesthesia device

Abstract

A vibratory anesthesia device has a handcuff, a pressure switch, and a control unit. The handcuffs are configured to fit onto a finger of a user, and each handcuff may have a vibrator motor positioned adjacent a fingertip when the handcuffs are worn. The pressure switch is positioned within one of the cuffs and is configured to sense a force applied on the pressure switch. The control unit is configured to be attached to a wrist of the user and is electrically coupled to the pressure switch and to each of the vibrator motors. The control unit provides power to the pressure switch, monitors the force applied on the pressure switch, and turns on each of the vibrator motors when the force applied on the pressure switch exceeds a threshold. When turned on, the vibrator motor vibrates and may provide a local anesthetic effect to the patient.

Description

[0001] Related applications

[0002] This application claims the benefit of the filing dates of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 385,616, filed by Dr. Rod Mahmoudizad on November 30, 2022, entitled “Vibrating Anesthesia Device,” and U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 387,317, filed by Dr. Rod Mahmoudizad on December 14, 2022, entitled “Vibrating Anesthesia Device,” the entire disclosures of which are hereby incorporated by reference. Technical Field

[0003] This document relates to a vibrating anesthesia device for relieving pain at a medical procedure site during a medical procedure, such as during needle insertion, blood drawing, or during other medical procedures. Background Art

[0004] During minor medical procedures that don't require anesthesia, such as needle insertion, standard patient care involves holding the patient's hand or distracting them. These methods fail to reduce pain and can lead to decreased patient satisfaction due to the perception that the medical professional is uncaring. While some devices exist that implement vibration to alleviate pain during medical procedures, these devices are inconvenient for medical professionals and, therefore, are not commonly implemented. Summary of the Invention

[0005] Aspects of this document relate to a vibrating anesthesia device comprising: at least two flexible finger cuffs, each configured to fit onto a user's finger, each of the at least two finger cuffs having a vibrator motor, the vibrator motor configured to be positioned adjacent to the user's fingertip when the finger cuff is positioned on the user's finger, wherein a first finger cuff of the at least two finger cuffs is sized and shaped to fit onto the user's index finger, and a second finger cuff of the at least two finger cuffs is sized and shaped to fit onto the user's thumb; a pressure switch positioned within the first finger cuff, wherein the pressure switch is configured to sense a force applied to the pressure switch and a control unit configured to be attached to the user's wrist, the control unit having a power source, a controller, and an interface configured to allow the user to control the vibrating anesthesia device, wherein the control unit is electrically coupled to the pressure switch and to each of the vibrator motors, and wherein the control unit is configured to provide power to the pressure switch, monitor the force applied to the pressure switch, and turn on each of the vibrator motors of the at least two cuffs when the force applied to the pressure switch exceeds a threshold; wherein when turned on, the vibrator motors are configured to vibrate and provide a local anesthetic effect to the patient.

[0006] Certain embodiments may include one or more of the following features. The vibrating anesthesia device may further include a glove configured to fit on the user's hand and create a barrier between the vibrating anesthesia device and the patient, wherein an index finger of the glove is sized to fit the first finger cuff and the user's index finger, and a thumb of the glove is sized to fit the second finger cuff and the user's thumb. The control unit may be configured to turn on each of the vibrator motors only after the force applied to the pressure switch exceeds the threshold for at least two seconds. The vibrator motor may be configured to vibrate at a frequency between 100 Hz and 200 Hz. The threshold may be at least 3.5 Newtons.

[0007] Aspects of this document relate to a vibratory anesthetic device comprising: a first finger cuff configured to be fitted onto a user's finger, the first finger cuff having a vibrator motor configured to be positioned adjacent to the user's fingertip when the finger cuff is positioned on the user's finger; a pressure switch positioned within the first finger cuff, wherein the pressure switch is configured to sense a force applied to the pressure switch; and a control unit configured to be attached to the user's wrist, wherein the control unit is electrically coupled to the pressure switch and to the vibrator motor, and wherein the control unit is configured to provide power to the pressure switch, monitor the force applied to the pressure switch, and turn on the vibrator motor when the force applied to the pressure switch exceeds a threshold; wherein when turned on, the vibrator motor is configured to vibrate and provide a local anesthetic effect to the patient.

[0008] Certain embodiments may include one or more of the following features. The vibrating anesthesia device may further include a second finger cuff configured to fit over a second finger of the user, the second finger cuff having a vibrator motor, wherein the control unit is configured to connect the vibrator motor of the second finger cuff to the vibrator motor of the first finger cuff. The first finger cuff may be sized and shaped to fit over the user's index finger, and the second finger cuff may be sized and shaped to fit over the user's thumb. The vibrating anesthesia device may further include a glove configured to fit over the user's hand and create a barrier between the vibrating anesthesia device and the patient, wherein the index finger of the glove is sized to fit over the first finger cuff and the user's index finger, and the thumb of the glove is sized to fit over the second finger cuff and the user's thumb. The control unit may include a power supply, a controller, and an interface configured to allow the user to control the vibrating anesthesia device. The control unit may be configured to connect the vibrator motor only after the force applied to the pressure switch exceeds the threshold for at least two seconds. The vibrator motor may be configured to vibrate at a frequency between 100 Hz and 200 Hz. The threshold may be at least 3.5 Newtons.

[0009] Aspects of this document relate to a vibratory anesthetic device comprising: one or more finger cuffs, each configured to fit onto a user's finger, at least one of the one or more finger cuffs having a vibrator motor, the vibrator motor configured to be positioned adjacent to the user's fingertip when the finger cuff is positioned on the user's finger; a pressure switch positioned within one of the one or more finger cuffs, wherein the pressure switch is configured to sense a force applied to the pressure switch; and a control unit electrically coupled to the pressure switch and to each of the vibrator motors, wherein the control unit is configured to provide power to the pressure switch, monitor the force applied to the pressure switch, and turn on each of the vibrator motors of the one or more finger cuffs when the force applied to the pressure switch exceeds a threshold; wherein when turned on, the vibrator motors are configured to vibrate and provide a local anesthetic effect to the patient.

[0010] Certain embodiments may include one or more of the following features. The one or more finger cuffs may include a first finger cuff and a second finger cuff, the first finger cuff being configured to fit over a first finger of the user, the second finger cuff being configured to fit over a second finger of the user, wherein each of the first and second finger cuffs includes a vibrator motor configured to be turned on when the force applied to the pressure switch exceeds the threshold. The first finger cuff may be sized and shaped to fit over the user's index finger, and the second finger cuff may be sized and shaped to fit over the user's thumb. The vibrating anesthesia device may further include a glove configured to fit over the user's hand and create a barrier between the vibrating anesthesia device and the patient, wherein the index finger of the glove is sized to fit over the first finger cuff and the user's index finger, and the thumb of the glove is sized to fit over the second finger cuff and the user's thumb. The control unit may include a power supply, a controller, and an interface configured to allow the user to control the vibrating anesthesia device. The control unit may be configured to turn on the vibrator motor only after the force applied to the pressure switch exceeds the threshold for at least two seconds. The vibrator motor may be configured to vibrate at a frequency between 100 Hz and 200 Hz.The threshold value is at least 3.5 Newtons.

[0011] Aspects of this document relate to a method of reducing pain during a medical procedure, the method comprising: selecting a medical procedure site on a patient; applying a force to the patient adjacent to the medical procedure site; in response to the force rising above a threshold, applying vibrations adjacent to the medical procedure site; and performing the medical procedure at the medical procedure site.

[0012] Particular embodiments may include one or more of the following features. The method may further include maintaining the vibration adjacent to the medical procedure site for at least 15 seconds. The method may further include measuring the length of time the force remains above the threshold and applying the vibration adjacent to the medical procedure site only after the force remains above the threshold for at least two seconds. Applying the vibration adjacent to the medical procedure site may include applying the vibration at two points adjacent to the medical procedure site. The method further includes applying the vibration in a first direction at a first of the two points and applying the vibration in a second direction different from the first direction at a second of the two points. The medical procedure site may be positioned between the two points. The method may further include stopping the vibration when the force decreases beyond the threshold. The frequency of the vibration may be between 100 Hz and 200 Hz. The threshold may be at least 3.5 Newtons.

[0013] Aspects of this document relate to a method of using a vibrating anesthesia device, the method comprising: inserting a first finger of a user into a first finger cuff having a first motor; inserting a second finger of the user into a second finger cuff having a second motor; placing the patient in contact with the first finger cuff and the second finger cuff adjacent to a medical procedure site on a patient; turning on the first motor and the second motor; vibrating the medical procedure site with the first motor and with the second motor; performing the medical procedure at the medical procedure site; and turning off the first motor and the second motor.

[0014] Particular embodiments may include one or more of the following features. The method may further include attaching a control unit to a wrist of the user. Vibrating the medical procedure site may include vibrating the medical procedure site for at least 15 seconds. Vibrating the medical procedure site may include vibrating the medical procedure site at a frequency between 100 Hz and 200 Hz. The first finger may be an index finger. The second finger may be a thumb. Turning on the first motor and the second motor may be in response to applying a force above a threshold to the patient adjacent to the medical procedure site. The threshold may be at least 3.5 Newtons. Contacting the patient adjacent to the medical procedure site may include positioning the medical procedure site between the first finger cuff and the second finger cuff. The method may further include inserting the user's hand into a glove.

[0015] Aspects of this document relate to a method of reducing pain during a medical procedure, the method comprising: selecting a medical procedure site on a patient; applying vibration simultaneously to a first point and to a second point, each point being adjacent to the medical procedure site; and performing the medical procedure at the medical procedure site.

[0016] Particular embodiments may include one or more of the following features. The method may further include maintaining the vibration adjacent the medical procedure site for at least 15 seconds. The method may further include applying a force to the patient adjacent the medical procedure site and applying the vibration in response to the force rising above a threshold. The method may further include measuring the length of time the force remains above the threshold and applying the vibration adjacent the medical procedure site only after the force remains above the threshold for at least two seconds. The method may further include stopping the vibration when the force decreases beyond the threshold. The threshold is at least 3.5 Newtons. The method may further include applying the vibration in a first direction at the first point and applying the vibration in a second direction different from the first direction at the second point. The medical procedure site may be positioned between the first point and the second point. The frequency of the vibration may be between 100 Hz and 200 Hz.

[0017] The foregoing and other aspects, features, and advantages will be apparent from the description, drawings, and claims. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0018] The following will describe embodiments in conjunction with and / or including the accompanying drawings, in which like reference numerals represent like elements, and:

[0019] Figure 1 It is a perspective view of a vibrating anesthesia device;

[0020] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 A perspective view of a first finger cuff and a second finger cuff of the vibrating anesthesia device shown;

[0021] Figure 3 yes Figure 1 A perspective view of the first and second finger cuffs shown with sections cut away to expose the interior;

[0022] Figure 4 yes Figure 1 a perspective view of a first finger cuff shown with sections cut away to expose the interior;

[0023] Figure 5 yes Figure 1 a perspective view of a second finger cuff shown with sections cut away to expose the interior;

[0024] Figure 6 yes Figure 1 A top view of the first finger cuff is shown;

[0025] Figure 7 It is from Figure 6 A cross-sectional view of the first finger cuff taken along line 7-7;

[0026] Figure 8 yes Figure 1 A top view of the second finger cuff is shown;

[0027] Figure 9 It is from Figure 8 A cross-sectional view of the second finger cuff taken along line 9-9;

[0028] Figure 10 yes Figure 1 A perspective view of a control unit of a vibration anesthesia device is shown;

[0029] Figure 11 yes Figure 10 a front exploded view of the control unit shown;

[0030] Figure 12 yes Figure 10 a rear exploded view of the control unit shown;

[0031] Figure 13 is a flow chart illustrating a method of using a vibratory anesthesia device; and

[0032] Figure 14 is a flow chart demonstrating methods for alleviating pain during medical procedures. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0033] Detailed aspects and applications of the present disclosure are described in the accompanying drawings and detailed description of the technology below. Unless otherwise noted, it is intended that the words and phrases in the description and claims have their plain, ordinary and customary meanings to those of ordinary skill in the applicable art.

[0034] In the following description, and for purposes of explanation, numerous specific details are set forth to provide a thorough understanding of various aspects of the present disclosure. However, those skilled in the relevant art will appreciate that embodiments of the technology disclosed herein may be practiced without these specific details. It should be noted that there are many different and alternative configurations, devices, and techniques to which the disclosed technology may be applied. The full scope of the technology disclosed herein is not limited to the examples described below.

[0035] Unless the context clearly dictates otherwise, the singular forms "a," "an," and "the" include plural referents. Thus, for example, reference to "a step" includes reference to one or more of such steps.

[0036] The words "exemplary," "example," or various forms thereof are used herein to mean serving as an example, instance, or illustration. Any aspect or design described herein as "exemplary" or as an "example" is not necessarily to be construed as preferred or advantageous over other aspects or designs. Furthermore, examples are provided solely for the purpose of clarity and understanding and are not intended to limit or restrict the disclosed subject matter or relevant portions of this disclosure in any way. It should be understood that numerous additional or alternative examples of varying scope could be presented, but these have been omitted for the sake of brevity.

[0037] When a range of values is expressed, another embodiment includes from one particular value and / or to other particular values. Similarly, when a value is expressed as an approximation by using the antecedent "about," it will be understood that the particular value forms another embodiment. All ranges are inclusive and combinable.

[0038] Throughout the description and claims of this specification, the words “comprise” and “contain” and variations of the words, such as “comprising” and “comprises” mean “including but not limited to,” and are not intended to (and do not) exclude other components.

[0039] As needed, detailed embodiments of the present disclosure are included herein. It should be understood that the disclosed embodiments are merely exemplary embodiments of the present invention that can be embodied in various forms. Therefore, the specific structural and functional details disclosed herein should not be interpreted as restrictive, but merely serve as a basis for teaching those skilled in the art to adopt the present invention. The following specific examples will help to better understand the present disclosure. However, the specific examples are provided only as guidance and do not imply any limitation.

[0040] The present disclosure can be more easily understood by reference to the following specific embodiments in conjunction with the drawings and examples that form a part of this disclosure. It should be understood that the present disclosure is not limited to the specific materials, devices, methods, applications, situations or parameters described and / or shown herein, and that the terms used herein are only for the purpose of describing specific embodiments by way of example and are not intended to limit the claimed invention. As used herein, the term "multiple" means more than one. When expressing a range of values, another embodiment includes from one specific value and / or to other specific values. Similarly, when a value is expressed as an approximation by using the antecedent "about", it will be understood that a specific value forms another embodiment. All ranges are inclusive and combinable.

[0041] More specifically, the present disclosure, its aspects, and embodiments are not limited to the specific material types, components, methods, or other examples disclosed herein. Many additional material types, components, methods, and procedures known in the art are contemplated for use with specific embodiments of the present disclosure. Thus, for example, although specific embodiments are disclosed, such embodiments and implementing components may include any components, models, types, materials, versions, amounts, etc., known in the art for such systems and implementing components consistent with the intended operation.

[0042] The present disclosure relates to a vibrating anesthesia device 100. The vibrating anesthesia device 100 is configured to provide an anesthetic effect during a medical procedure such as an injection, an incision, a blood draw, the placement or removal of sutures, or some other medical procedure. The vibrating anesthesia device 100 increases sensory input in a specific location on the patient's body, which helps inhibit pain fiber activity and reduce the sensation of pain. Specifically, the vibrating anesthesia device 100 provides the physical stimulation of vibration to provide this effect. Thus, the vibrating anesthesia device is configured to be worn by a user, who may be a doctor, nurse, or other medical professional, and is configured to vibrate the patient at and / or around the site of the medical procedure to provide a local anesthetic effect.

[0043] The vibration anesthesia device 100 may include finger cuffs 102, a pressure switch 104, and a control unit 106. Figure 1 In different embodiments, different numbers of finger cuffs 102 can be used. For example, the vibration anesthesia device 100 can include one finger cuff 102, two finger cuffs 102, at least two finger cuffs 102, one or more finger cuffs 102, or any number of finger cuffs 102.

[0044] Go to Figure 2-9, each finger cuff 102 is configured to fit onto a user's finger. Each finger cuff 102 may have a vibrator motor 108. However, in some embodiments, there may be some finger cuffs 102 that do not include a vibrator motor 108. In a specific embodiment, at least one of the one or more finger cuffs 102 has a vibrator motor 108. When the finger cuff 102 is positioned on the user's finger, the vibrator motor 108 may be configured to be adjacent to the user's fingertip. Thus, when in use, the user can position the vibrator motor 108 in a desired position by positioning the user's fingertip in the desired position, such as adjacent to a medical procedure site, as discussed in more detail below. The finger cuff 102 may include a first finger cuff 110 and a second finger cuff 112. The first finger cuff 110 may be sized and shaped to fit onto the user's index finger, and the second finger cuff 112 may be sized and shaped to fit onto the user's thumb.

[0045] Each cuff 102 may also have an open slit 107 configured to facilitate bending of the cuff 102. This allows the cuff 102 to be long enough to fit over the knuckles of the fingers, which helps keep the cuff 102 on the fingers without compromising finger dexterity. The slit 107 may be located on a first side 109 of the cuff 102, opposite the second side 111, wherein the cuff 102 is configured such that the first side 109 is worn on the palm surface of the user's hand and the second side 111 is worn over the user's knuckles. Each cuff 102 may also have a pull tab 113 configured to facilitate insertion of the user's fingers into the cuff 102 by providing a tab for the user to pull. The pull tab 113 may have at least one ridge 115 to improve the user's grip on the pull tab 113.

[0046] In some embodiments, the cuffs 102 are permanently electrically coupled to the control unit 106. In other embodiments, the cuffs 102 are detachable from the control unit 106 to allow for the insertion of additional components into the control unit 106. For example, a vibrating probe may be implemented in a different form or function than the cuffs 102. Additionally, the cuffs 102 or other components may include additional functionality, such as lighting, video, air pressure, etc., to enable the user to further enhance the patient experience.

[0047] The pressure switch 104 is positioned within one of the cuffs 102. For example, the pressure switch 104 may be positioned within the first cuff 110, which is designed to be worn on the user's index finger. The pressure switch 104 may be positioned so that when the cuff 102 is worn, it can be activated by pressure from the fingertip or pad of the finger. The pressure switch 104 is configured to sense force or pressure applied to the pressure switch 104. The pressure switch 104 may be a force-sensitive resistor. This allows the pressure switch 104 to indirectly sense force applied to the pressure switch 104 by sensing a change in resistance when pressure or force is applied to the pressure switch 104. When in a static state, the pressure switch 104 may have a high resistance, resulting in no current flow. When force is applied, the resistance decreases, allowing a small current to flow. In embodiments with a force-sensitive resistor, the pressure switch 104 may have a rating of <10 kΩ at a pressure of 0.6 kg. This means that when the resistance of the pressure switch 104 drops to a value of 10 kΩ, a "force" of 0.6 kg is known to be applied. In a particular embodiment, the specification of the pressure switch 104 at 0.3 kg of pressure may be <10 kΩ. Any other resistance and corresponding pressure may be selected. Applicants note that sensor specifications often use mass and force interchangeably, with the understanding that on the surface of the Earth, one kilogram is equivalent to 9.8 Newtons of force. Similarly, force and pressure may also be used interchangeably, as discussed in more detail below. Specifically, when the pressure switch 104 is a force-sensitive resistor, the area of the sensor is always known, and the conversion between pressure and force is a simple calculation.

[0048] Thus, while the present disclosure may sometimes refer specifically to force or pressure relative to the pressure switch 104, it will be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art that either value can be sensed and measured, and that one value can be calculated based on the other. Therefore, for the purposes of the present disclosure, force and pressure should be considered interchangeable, particularly because force and / or pressure are only relevant when detecting when a user desires to turn on the vibrating anesthesia device 100. In other words, the vibrating anesthesia device 100 is configured to be activated when a user wears the vibrating anesthesia device 100 and presses against a patient. This can be achieved by sensing a force that rises above a threshold or by sensing a pressure that rises above a threshold, and these are considered equivalent. An advantage of such an activation method is that the device 100 can be turned on and off without the need to press a separate switch or button. The user can simply press the device 100 in the desired position, and the device 100 automatically turns on, as described in more detail below.

[0049] Control unit 106 may be electrically and / or communicatively coupled to pressure switch 104 and to each of vibrator motors 108. Control unit 106 is configured to provide power to pressure switch 104 so that it can sense the force applied to pressure switch 104. Control unit 106 is also configured to monitor the force applied to pressure switch 104. When the force applied to pressure switch 104 exceeds a threshold, control unit 106 is configured to turn on each of vibrator motors 108. The threshold may be at least 2 Newtons, at least 3 Newtons, at least 3.5 Newtons, at least 4 Newtons, at least 5 Newtons, or any other value. In some embodiments, control unit 106 is configured to turn on each of vibrator motors 108 only after the force applied to pressure switch 104 exceeds the threshold for a predetermined period of time. In some embodiments, the predetermined period of time may be at least two seconds. In other embodiments, the predetermined period of time may be 0.5 seconds, 1 second, 1.5 seconds, 2.5 seconds, 3 seconds, or any other period of time. This helps prevent vibrator motors 108 from being accidentally turned on when the force very briefly exceeds the threshold. Similarly, control unit 106 can be configured to disconnect each of vibrator motors 108 only after the force applied to pressure switch 104 decreases above the threshold for a predetermined period of time. This helps prevent vibrator motors 108 from being accidentally disconnected.

[0050] When turned on, the vibrator motor 108 is configured to vibrate. In some embodiments, the vibrator motor 108 is configured to vibrate at a frequency between 100 Hz and 200 Hz (Hz). In a specific embodiment, the vibrator motor 108 is configured to vibrate at a frequency between 10 Hz and 200 Hz or between 1 Hz and 1 kHz. When applied to a patient, frequencies within these ranges can provide a local anesthetic effect. The vibrator motor 108 can also be configured to have an adjustable motor pulse rate and can therefore be controlled by the control unit 106 to be activated intermittently or at irregular intervals by preset or user adjustment. This, together with the variable power that can be supplied to the vibrator motor 108, allows a wider range of sensory vibrations due to the adjustment of frequency, pulse, and power.

[0051] When the cuffs 102 are worn on the user's fingers and the user presses against the patient with the cuffs 102, the pressure switch 104 senses or detects the force applied to the pressure switch 104. When this force exceeds a threshold, the vibrator motor 108 turns on and begins vibrating. Because the cuffs 102 are pressed against the patient, this applies vibrations to the patient. In this way, the vibrator motor 108 is configured to provide a local anesthetic effect to the patient through vibration when turned on. Having more than one vibrator motor 108 can be advantageous because it allows the vibrator motors 108 to be placed at different locations around the procedure site. For example, when the cuffs 102 with the vibrator motor 108 are positioned on the user's index finger and thumb, these two fingers can be placed on either side of the procedure site, with the procedure site located between the two fingers. Thus, the index finger and thumb can be used to properly stretch or position the procedure site for a procedure, such as facilitating needle insertion during an injection, and can also apply vibrations around the procedure site, ensuring that the local anesthetic effect is appropriately applied to the area surrounding the procedure site.

[0052] As part of the process of using the vibrating anesthesia device 100, the finger cuffs 102 can be moved and positioned in different configurations depending on the specific situation. For example, when inserting a needle into the abdominal area, a pinching motion can be used between the two finger cuffs 102. In other positions that are flatter, the user can simply press down with the finger cuffs 102 instead of pinching. In other areas, pressing down in two completely different directions may be advantageous, such as when inserting a needle into the eyebrow, with the thumb pressing below the orbital rim and the index finger pressing above the eyebrow.

[0053] As described above, the cuff 102 can have a vibrator motor 108 positioned within the cuff 102. In some embodiments, the cuff 102 can include a cavity 115 within the cuff 102 near the tip 117 of the cuff 102 (see Figure 7 and 9 The cavity 115 is configured to provide space for the vibrator motor 108 within the finger cuff 102 so that the finger cuff 102 still properly fits the user's finger despite the presence of the vibrator 108 within the finger cuff 102 .

[0054] For clarity of the present disclosure, while the figures illustrate an embodiment in which all of the cuffs 102 include vibrator motors 108 and one of the cuffs 102 includes a pressure switch 104, alternative embodiments may have some cuffs 102 without vibrator motors 108, and there may be more than one pressure switch 104. Thus, while in many embodiments, the pressure switch 104 is paired with the vibrator motor 108, in some embodiments, the pressure switch 104 may be separate, without the vibrator motor 108. Additionally, in embodiments with more than one pressure switch 104, the vibrator motors 108 may be independently operable, such that some vibrator motors 108 may be turned on without turning on at least one of the other vibrator motors 108.

[0055] Go to Figure 10-12 The control unit 106 can be configured to attach to the user's wrist. For example, the control unit 106 can include a wristband 134 configured to wrap around the user's wrist. The wristband 134 can be formed from an elastic material to facilitate attachment of the wristband 134 to the user's body. Attaching the control unit 106 to the user's wrist or other body part allows some of the components of the vibratory anesthesia device 100 to be positioned away from the user's fingers, thereby providing more space for such components without interfering with the user's finger use and dexterity or the placement of the glove on the user's hand. The control unit 106 can also be attached to other parts of the user's body or positioned away from the user's body. The control unit 106 can include a power supply 114, a controller 116, and an interface 118. The power supply 114 can be a battery. The power supply 114 and the controller 116 can be integrated into a printed circuit board (PCB) 120. The power supply 114 can be rechargeable. The control unit 106 can be housed in a housing 122, and the housing 122 can have a charging port 124 configured to receive a charging cable to charge the power source 114. The charging port 124 can be a micro-USB charging port or any other charging port. An interface 118 is exposed through the housing 122 and is configured to allow a user to control the vibrating anesthesia device 100. For example, the interface 118 can provide a power button 126 to turn the vibrating anesthesia device 100 on and off. The interface 118 can also have a battery indicator 128 to display the remaining charge level in the power source 114.

[0056] The vibration anesthesia device 100 may also include a glove (not shown). The glove is configured to fit over the user's hand and create a barrier between the vibration anesthesia device 100 and the patient. This allows the vibration anesthesia device 100 to be used on multiple patients without requiring sterilization between uses. Instead, only the glove can be replaced or sterilized. In embodiments where the vibration anesthesia device 100 has a first finger cuff 110 worn on the index finger and a second finger cuff 112 worn on the thumb, the glove can be sized differently for these fingers to accommodate the vibration anesthesia device 100. For example, the index finger of the glove can be sized to fit the first finger cuff 110 and the user's index finger, and the thumb of the glove can be sized to fit the second finger cuff 112 and the user's thumb. Alternatively, a typical glove can be used to provide the barrier mentioned above. In such cases, the user can choose to wear a glove one size larger than their typical size to leave room for the device within the glove.

[0057] The present disclosure also relates to a method 200 of using the vibrating anesthesia device 100 disclosed above, wherein Figure 13 . The method 200 may include inserting a first finger of a user into a first finger cuff 110 having a first motor 130, and inserting a second finger of the user into a second finger cuff 112 having a second motor 132. Both the first motor 130 and the second motor 132 may be vibrator motors 108 as described above. The method 200 may further include attaching the control unit 106 to the user's wrist and / or inserting the user's hand into a glove. The method 200 also includes contacting the patient with the first finger cuff 110 and the second finger cuff 112 adjacent to a medical procedure site on the patient. The medical procedure site is a location on the patient designated for a medical procedure. For example, the medical procedure site may be an insertion site designated for inserting a needle, such as during an injection, shot, or blood draw, or may be an incision site or an injury (such as a laceration). Contacting the patient adjacent to the medical procedure site may include positioning the medical procedure site between the first finger cuff 110 and the second finger cuff 112.

[0058] Method 200 may also include energizing first motor 130 and second motor 132, vibrating the medical procedure site with first motor 130 and second motor 132, performing a medical procedure at the medical procedure site, such as inserting a needle into the medical procedure site, and deenergizing first motor 130 and second motor 132. Vibrating the medical procedure site may include vibrating the medical procedure site for at least 15 seconds or at least 30 seconds, and may include vibrating the medical procedure site at a frequency between 100 Hz and 200 Hz or between 1 Hz and 1 kHz. In method 200, the user's first finger may be an index finger and / or the second finger may be a thumb of the user. Energizing first motor 130 and second motor 132 may be performed in response to applying a force above a threshold to the patient proximate the medical procedure site. The threshold may be at least 0.5 Newtons, at least 1 Newton, at least 3.5 Newtons, or at least 5 Newtons.

[0059] The present disclosure also relates to a method 300 of alleviating pain during a medical procedure, wherein Figure 14 . Method 300 may include selecting a medical procedure site on a patient, applying a force to the patient adjacent to the medical procedure site, detecting when the force rises above a threshold, applying a vibration adjacent to the medical procedure site in response to the force rising above the threshold, and performing a medical procedure at the medical procedure site. Method 300 may also include maintaining the vibration adjacent to the medical procedure site for at least 15 seconds or at least 30 seconds. In method 300, the length of time the force remains above the threshold may be measured, and the vibration may be applied adjacent to the medical procedure site only after the force remains above the threshold for at least half a second, at least 1 second, or at least two seconds. Applying the vibration adjacent to the medical procedure site may include applying the vibration at two points adjacent to the medical procedure site. The medical procedure site may be positioned between the two points, and the vibration at the first point may be applied in a first direction, and the vibration at the second point may be applied in a second direction different from the first direction. Method 300 may also include stopping the vibration when the force decreases beyond a threshold. The frequency of the vibration may be between 100 Hz and 200 Hz or between 1 Hz and 1 kHz, and the threshold may be at least 0.5 Newtons, at least 1 Newton, at least 3.5 Newtons, or at least 5 Newtons.

[0060] Method 300 may also include selecting a medical procedure site on a patient; applying vibration simultaneously to a first point and to a second point, each point being adjacent to the medical procedure site; and performing the medical procedure at the medical procedure site. The method may also include maintaining the vibration adjacent to the medical procedure site for at least 15 seconds. The method may further include applying a force to the patient adjacent to the medical procedure site and applying the vibration in response to the force rising above a threshold, measuring the length of time the force remains above the threshold, and applying the vibration adjacent to the medical procedure site only after the force remains above the threshold for at least two seconds, and / or ceasing the vibration when the force decreases above the threshold. As described above, the threshold value may be at least 3.5 Newtons. Applying the vibration at the first point may be in a first direction, and applying the vibration at the second point may be in a second direction different from the first direction. The medical procedure site may be positioned between the first point and the second point, and the frequency of the vibration may be between 100 Hz and 200 Hz.

[0061] Many additional embodiments are possible. Additional embodiments are within the claims.

[0062] It should be understood that embodiments of anesthesia devices include, but are not limited to, the specific components disclosed herein, as virtually any components consistent with the intended operation of various anesthesia devices may be utilized. Thus, for example, it should be understood that while the figures and accompanying text illustrate and describe specific anesthesia device embodiments, any such embodiment may comprise any shape, size, style, type, model, version, category, grade, measurement, concentration, material, weight, amount, etc., consistent with the intended operation of the anesthesia device.

[0063] The concepts disclosed herein are not limited to the particular anesthesia devices shown herein. For example, it is specifically contemplated that the components included in a particular anesthesia device can be formed from any of many different types of materials or combinations that can be readily formed into a shaped object and that are consistent with the intended operation of the anesthesia device. For example, the components can be formed from: rubber (synthetic and / or natural) and / or other similar materials; glass (such as fiberglass), carbon fiber, aramid fiber, any combination thereof and / or other similar materials; elastomers and / or other similar materials; polymers, such as thermoplastics (such as ABS, fluoropolymers, polyacetals, polyamides, polycarbonates, polyethylene, polysulfones, etc.), thermosets (such as epoxies, phenolics, polyimides, polyurethanes, etc.) and / or other similar materials; plastics and / or other similar materials; composites and / or other similar materials; metals, such as zinc, magnesium, titanium, copper, iron, steel, carbon steel, alloy steel, tool steel, stainless steel, spring steel, aluminum and / or other similar materials; and / or any combination of the foregoing.

[0064] In addition, the anesthesia device can be manufactured separately and then assembled together, or any or all of the components in the assembly can be manufactured simultaneously and integrally connected to each other. As will be understood by one of ordinary skill in the art, the separate or simultaneous manufacture of these components may involve 3-D printing, extrusion, pultrusion, vacuum forming, injection molding, blow molding, resin transfer molding, casting, forging, cold rolling, milling, drilling, reaming, turning, grinding, stamping, cutting, bending, welding, brazing, hardening, riveting, punching, electroplating, etc. If any of the components in the assembly are manufactured separately, they may be coupled or removably coupled to each other in any manner, such as using adhesives, welding, fasteners, any combination thereof, etc., depending on considerations such as the specific materials from which the components are formed.

[0065] Where the above description relates to specific anesthesia apparatus embodiments, it is apparent that many modifications may be made without departing from the spirit thereof, and that these embodiments may be applied to other embodiments disclosed or not disclosed. The presently disclosed anesthesia apparatus is therefore to be considered in all respects as illustrative and not restrictive.

Claims

1. A vibration anesthesia device, comprising: at least two flexible finger cuffs, each flexible finger cuff configured to fit over a user's finger, each of the at least two finger cuffs having a vibrator motor configured to be positioned adjacent to the user's fingertip when the finger cuff is positioned over the user's finger, wherein a first of the at least two finger cuffs is sized and shaped to fit over the user's index finger, and a second of the at least two finger cuffs is sized and shaped to fit over the user's thumb; a pressure switch positioned within the first finger cuff, wherein the pressure switch is configured to sense a force applied to the pressure switch; as well as a control unit configured to be attached to a wrist of the user, the control unit having a power source, a controller, and an interface configured to allow the user to control the vibrating anesthesia device, wherein the control unit is electrically coupled to the pressure switch and to each of the vibrator motors, and wherein the control unit is configured to provide power to the pressure switch, monitor the force applied to the pressure switch, and turn on each of the vibrator motors of the at least two finger cuffs when the force applied to the pressure switch exceeds a threshold; Wherein, when turned on, the vibrator motor is configured to vibrate and provide a local anesthetic effect to the patient.

2. The vibratory anesthesia device of claim 1 , further comprising a glove configured to fit on the user's hand and create a barrier between the vibratory anesthesia device and the patient, wherein an index finger of the glove is sized to fit the first finger cuff and the index finger of the user, and a thumb of the glove is sized to fit the second finger cuff and the thumb of the user. 3 . The vibrating anesthesia device of claim 1 , wherein the control unit is configured to switch on each of the vibrator motors only after the force applied to the pressure switch exceeds the threshold value for at least two seconds.

4. The vibrating anesthesia device of claim 1, wherein the vibrator motor is configured to vibrate at a frequency between 100 Hz and 200 Hz.

5. The vibrating anesthesia device of claim 1, wherein the threshold value is at least 3.5 Newtons.

6. A vibration anesthesia device comprising: a first finger cuff configured to fit onto a finger of a user, the first finger cuff having a vibrator motor configured to be positioned adjacent to a fingertip of the user when the finger cuff is positioned on the finger of the user; a pressure switch positioned within the first finger cuff, wherein the pressure switch is configured to sense a force applied to the pressure switch; as well as a control unit configured to be attached to a wrist of the user, wherein the control unit is electrically coupled to the pressure switch and to the vibrator motor, and wherein the control unit is configured to provide power to the pressure switch, monitor the force applied to the pressure switch, and turn on the vibrator motor when the force applied to the pressure switch exceeds a threshold; Wherein, when turned on, the vibrator motor is configured to vibrate and provide a local anesthetic effect to the patient.

7. The vibrating anesthesia device according to claim 6, further comprising a second finger cuff configured to be fitted onto a second finger of the user, the second finger cuff having a vibrator motor, wherein the control unit is configured to connect the vibrator motor of the second finger cuff to the vibrator motor of the first finger cuff.

8. The vibrating anesthesia device of claim 7, wherein the first finger cuff is sized and shaped to fit over the user's index finger, and the second finger cuff is sized and shaped to fit over the user's thumb.

9. The vibrating anesthesia device of claim 7 , further comprising a glove configured to fit on the user's hand and create a barrier between the vibrating anesthesia device and the patient, wherein an index finger of the glove is sized to fit the first finger cuff and the index finger of the user, and a thumb of the glove is sized to fit the second finger cuff and the thumb of the user.

10. The vibration anesthesia device of claim 6, the control unit having a power supply, a controller, and an interface configured to allow the user to control the vibration anesthesia device.

11. The vibrating anesthesia device of claim 6, wherein the control unit is configured to switch on the vibrator motor only after the force applied to the pressure switch exceeds the threshold for at least two seconds.

12. The vibrating anesthesia device of claim 6, wherein the vibrator motor is configured to vibrate at a frequency between 100 Hz and 200 Hz.

13. The vibrating anesthesia device of claim 6, wherein the threshold value is at least 3.5 Newtons.

14. A vibration anesthesia device comprising: one or more finger cuffs, each configured to fit onto a finger of a user, at least one of the one or more finger cuffs having a vibrator motor configured to be positioned adjacent a fingertip of the user when the finger cuff is positioned on the finger of the user; a pressure switch positioned within one of the one or more cuffs, wherein the pressure switch is configured to sense a force applied to the pressure switch; as well as a control unit electrically coupled to the pressure switch and to each of the vibrator motors, wherein the control unit is configured to provide power to the pressure switch, monitor the force applied to the pressure switch, and turn on each of the vibrator motors of the one or more cuffs when the force applied to the pressure switch exceeds a threshold; Wherein, when turned on, the vibrator motor is configured to vibrate and provide a local anesthetic effect to the patient.

15. The vibrating anesthesia device of claim 14 , wherein the one or more finger cuffs include a first finger cuff and a second finger cuff, the first finger cuff being configured to be fitted onto a first finger of the user, the second finger cuff being configured to be fitted onto a second finger of the user, wherein each of the first finger cuff and the second finger cuff has a vibrator motor configured to be turned on when the force applied to the pressure switch exceeds the threshold value.

16. The vibrating anesthesia device of claim 15, wherein the first finger cuff is sized and shaped to fit over the user's index finger, and the second finger cuff is sized and shaped to fit over the user's thumb.

17. The vibrating anesthesia device of claim 15, further comprising a glove configured to fit on the user's hand and create a barrier between the vibrating anesthesia device and the patient, wherein an index finger of the glove is sized to fit the first finger cuff and the index finger of the user, and a thumb of the glove is sized to fit the second finger cuff and the thumb of the user.

18. The vibrating anesthesia device of claim 14, the control unit having a power supply, a controller, and an interface configured to allow the user to control the vibrating anesthesia device.

19. The vibrating anesthesia device of claim 14, wherein the control unit is configured to turn on the vibrator motor only after the force applied to the pressure switch exceeds the threshold for at least two seconds.

20. The vibrating anesthesia device of claim 14, wherein the vibrator motor is configured to vibrate at a frequency between 100 Hz and 200 Hz.

21. The vibrating anesthesia device of claim 14, wherein the threshold value is at least 3.5 Newtons.

22. A method of reducing pain during a medical procedure, the method comprising: Selecting the site for the medical procedure on the patient; applying a force to the patient proximate the medical procedure site; applying vibrations adjacent the medical procedure site in response to the force rising above a threshold; and The medical procedure is performed at the medical procedure site.

23. The method of claim 22, further comprising maintaining the vibration adjacent the medical procedure site for at least 15 seconds.

24. The method of claim 22, further comprising measuring the length of time the force remains above the threshold, and applying the vibration adjacent the medical procedure site only after the force remains above the threshold for at least two seconds.

25. The method of claim 22, wherein applying the vibrations proximate the medical procedure site comprises applying the vibrations at two points proximate the medical procedure site.

26. The method of claim 25, further comprising applying the vibration in a first direction at a first point of the two points, and applying the vibration in a second direction different from the first direction at a second point of the two points.

27. The method of claim 25, wherein the medical procedure site is located between the two points.

28. The method of claim 22, further comprising ceasing the vibration when the force decreases beyond the threshold.

29. The method of claim 22, wherein the frequency of the vibration is between 100 Hz and 200 Hz.

30. The method of claim 22, wherein the threshold value is at least 3.5 Newtons.

31. A method of using a vibrating anesthesia device, the method comprising: inserting a first finger of a user into a first finger cuff having a first motor; inserting a second finger of the user into a second finger cuff having a second motor; adjacent a medical procedure site on a patient, the patient being cuffed with the first finger cuff and in contact with the second finger cuff; turning on the first motor and the second motor; vibrating the medical procedure site with the first motor and with the second motor; performing the medical procedure at the medical procedure site; as well as The first motor and the second motor are disconnected.

32. The method of claim 31 , further comprising attaching a control unit to a wrist of the user.

33. The method of claim 31 , wherein vibrating the medical procedure site comprises vibrating the medical procedure site for at least 15 seconds.

34. The method of claim 31 , wherein vibrating the medical procedure site comprises vibrating the medical procedure site at a frequency between 100 Hz and 200 Hz.

35. The method of claim 31 , wherein the first finger is an index finger.

36. The method of claim 31 , wherein the second finger is a thumb.

37. The method of claim 31 , wherein energizing the first motor and the second motor is performed in response to applying a force above a threshold to the patient proximate the medical procedure site.

38. The method of claim 37, wherein the threshold value is at least 3.5 Newtons.

39. The method of claim 31 , wherein contacting the patient adjacent the medical procedure site comprises positioning the medical procedure site between the first finger cuff and the second finger cuff.

40. The method of claim 31 , further comprising inserting the user's hand into a glove.

41. A method of reducing pain during a medical procedure, the method comprising: Selecting the site for the medical procedure on the patient; applying vibration simultaneously to a first point and to a second point, each point being adjacent to the medical procedure site; and The medical procedure is performed at the medical procedure site.

42. The method of claim 41, further comprising maintaining the vibration adjacent the medical procedure site for at least 15 seconds.

43. The method of claim 41, further comprising applying a force to the patient adjacent the medical procedure site, and applying the vibration in response to the force rising above a threshold.

44. The method of claim 43, further comprising measuring the length of time the force remains above the threshold, and applying the vibration adjacent the medical procedure site only after the force remains above the threshold for at least two seconds.

45. The method of claim 43, further comprising ceasing the vibration when the force decreases beyond the threshold.

46. The method of claim 43, wherein the threshold value is at least 3.5 Newtons.

47. The method of claim 41, further comprising applying the vibration in a first direction at the first point, and applying the vibration in a second direction different from the first direction at the second point.

48. The method of claim 41, wherein the medical procedure site is located between the first point and the second point.

49. The method of claim 41, wherein the frequency of the vibration is between 100 Hz and 200 Hz.

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