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.

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 immobi...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

"The present invention provides a splint device that can be easily fitted to different parts of the body, providing maximum adjustment range and comfort. It allows for adequate blood circulation and supports joints and limbs in an optimal position with a controllable measure of rigidity. The splint is designed to allow for uncomplicated assembly and operation, and it is secured into place by Velcro straps. The invention is a 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. The invention meets the needs of various medical teams and can be used in private homes. The splint allows for controlled movement and function of the joint or limb, enhancing the quality of healing and reducing discomfort. The simplicity of the design and assembly allows for easy application, use, assembly, and adjustment of the splint with minimal or no assistance."

Problems solved by technology

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.

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.

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.

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