Systems and methods for maintaining patient position

Abstract

Several systems, apparatuses, and methods detailed herein provide adjustable restraint devices that maintain a person's chosen position relative to a support structure, for example, to maintain a safe and customizable patient position during surgical procedures or medical transport. TIFF2026514240000002.tif107128

Description

Technical Field

[0001] Cross - Reference to Related Applications This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 463,105, filed on May 1, 2023, the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference.

[0002] Technical Field The present disclosure describes systems, devices, and methods for releasably and safely holding a subject, such as a patient, during surgery or during transportation to a medical site. Specific examples described herein provide improved positioning and releasable restraint of one or more limbs of a patient in a customizable and safe position while the patient is sedated during surgery.

Background Art

[0003] Background Maintaining a consistent and secure position of the patient during surgical procedures facilitates improved surgical outcomes; it reduces the likelihood of unintended limb movement and its consequences, such as sensory disturbances or ischemia of a limb that has shifted position unintentionally during the surgical process. For example, in some situations where a patient may be under anesthesia during a surgical procedure, the patient may not be able to control or position themselves, or warn the physician of limb discomfort or sensory disturbances. Physicians have employed several techniques to control the patient's position during medical procedures. For example, some medical staff may use folding or cushioning techniques on the operating table to hold the patient in place. These techniques may include wrapping a sheet around the patient's limb and within the cushions of the operating table to hold the patient's limb in place during the procedure. Such techniques may not be effective in maintaining a consistent and secure position of the patient throughout the procedure, as the sheet may loosen in some areas, allowing the patient's limb to move from its initially chosen position. Furthermore, in some situations, including with obese or overweight patients who occupy a larger area than the operating table, such conventional techniques may not be able to securely hold the patient's limb in a consistent and safe manner throughout the duration of the medical procedure. [Overview of the Initiative]

[0004] overview This disclosure describes systems, apparatus, and methods for maintaining a person's chosen position relative to a support structure to achieve, for example, a safe and customizable patient position during a surgical procedure or medical transport of a patient. In certain embodiments, the systems, apparatus, and methods described herein may include at least one adjustable restraint device to achieve improved adjustability for releasably capturing one or more parts of a patient in a safe position relative to a surgical table or medical transport device. In some examples detailed below, the adjustable restraint device may include a series of movable links that provide adjustability to a user-selected position and shape, and in response to the user adjusting the actuator of the adjustable restraint device, the links are locked in the user-selected position / shape (e.g., via engagement of bevel-end connectors of links that mechanically mate with each other).

[0005] Among the advantages, several systems and methods described herein can advantageously provide more efficient and customizable methods for maintaining any wide variety of patient sizes in a selected position on a surgical table or medical transport device. For example, in certain embodiments, an adjustable restraint device can be releasably locked at a user-selected position along the operating table and / or surgical armboard, and can be conveniently operated to a curved configuration (e.g., for engaging with a patient's limb) or another user-selected configuration before being releasably locked to that particular user-selected configuration. Furthermore, several embodiments described in more detail below can achieve removable, reusable solutions that provide further comfort to the patient engaged with the adjustable restraint device, while also achieving efficient disposability of certain components and reuse of other more complex components. Also, in some optional embodiments, the adjustable restraint device can employ a set of links with improved end connectors that provide a rapid transition from an unlocked state (the adjustable restraint device is easily adjusted to a user-selected position and shape) to a locked state (adjacent links mechanically lock together) with increased locking strength and torque resistance.

[0006] Some embodiments described herein include a flexible cuff system for maintaining a patient's position in a releaseable manner. To hold the limb in a selected position relative to a medical support, the flexible cuff system includes: A flexible cuff body adjustable from a first orientation to a user-selected orientation, comprising a series of links adjustablely connected to each other via a series of first end connectors of each link body and one or more cables, configured to connect to a series of second end connectors of a series of brackets; and A handle body connected to the base of a flexible cuff body, comprising a handle movable between a locked position and an unlocked position, defining a mating interface that slidably engages with a medical support, Includes, In response to the handle being moved to the unlocked position, the flexible cuff body becomes adjustable from a first orientation to an orientation selected by the user so as to extend around the limb. While the flexible cuff body is in the orientation selected by the user, the handle is moved to the locked position, and in response, the flexible cuff body is locked in the orientation selected by the user by pressing the first end connector and the second end connector against each other to hold the limb in the selected position relative to the medical support.

[0007] Such a system may include one or more of the following optional features: One or more cables, A longitudinal cable extends from the handle body through a series of links in a flexible cuff body that are adjustable, connectable, and movable to each other. A flexible cuff system including [a specific component]. Each link may include a transverse cable connected to a longitudinal cable. The handle is connected to a longitudinal cable, and in response to the handle being moved to the locked position, the handle applies tension to the longitudinal cable, fixing the series of links in a connected position relative to each other. The medical support is an operating table, and the mating interface of the handle body is configured to slidably engage with the rails of the operating table. The medical support is an extension of the arm bar of the operating table, and the mating interface of the handle body is configured to slidably engage with the extension of the arm bar of the operating table. The flexible cuff system may include a protective outer sleeve that is detachably positioned on a series of links of the flexible cuff body. A series of first end connectors form a bevel spline receiving section, and a series of second end connectors form a bevel spline. In response to the handle being moved to the unlocked position, the series of links become pivotable relative to each other in order to adjust the overall shape of the series of links. The flexible cuff body extends away from the handle body toward the free end of the flexible cuff body, and the free end of the flexible cuff body includes a fastener configured to connect to a second flexible cuff body.

[0008] Some embodiments described herein include a system. The system is as follows: An operating table including one or more rails extending along one or more sides of the operating table; and Multiple adjustable limb restraints that can be releasedly locked in a selectable position along one or more rails of an operating table, each of which adjustable limb restraints is A flexible cuff body adjustable from a first orientation to a user-selected orientation for holding a limb in a user-selected position relative to an operating table, comprising a series of links adjustablely connected to each other via one or more cables and a series of first end connectors of each link body configured to connect to a series of second end connectors of a series of brackets, A handle body including a handle that is movable between a locked position and an unlocked position and connected to the base of a flexible cuff body, the handle body and defining a fitting interface that slidably engages with at least one of one or more rails Multiple adjustable limb restraints, including It can include... The system also includes the fact that, in response to the handle being moved to the unlocked position, the flexible cuff body becomes adjustable from a first orientation to a user-selected orientation so as to extend around the limb, and that, while the flexible cuff body is in the user-selected orientation, in response to the handle being moved to the locked position, the flexible cuff body is locked in the user-selected orientation by pressing the first end connector and the second end connector against each other to hold the limb in the selected position relative to the operating table.

[0009] Such a system may include one or more of the following optional features: The flexible cuff body is A longitudinal cable extends from the handle body through a series of links in a flexible cuff body that are adjustable, connectable, and movable to each other. A system that includes this. In response to the handle being moved to the unlocked position, a series of links become movable relative to each other to adjust the flexible cuff body to a user-selected orientation such that it extends around the limb. In response to the handle being moved to the locked position, a series of links are mechanically locked to each other to allow the flexible cuff body to be released in the orientation selected by the user. In response to the handle being moved to the unlocked position, a series of links become pivotable relative to each other to adjust the overall shape of the flexible cuff body. Each of the multiple adjustable limb restraints operates independently of the others.

[0010] Some embodiments include a method for maintaining the patient's position. The method is: The process of locking the handle body of an adjustable limb restraint to the rails of the operating table in a releaseable manner in a selected position relative to the patient's limb on the operating table; The process of adjusting the flexible cuff body of an adjustable limb restraint to a shape selected for engagement with the patient's limb; and Adjusting an actuator on a handle body of an adjustable limb restraint to lock the flexible cuff body in a selected shape in a releasable manner by pressing a series of first end connectors and a series of second end connectors of the flexible cuff body together can include.

[0011] Some aspects of the method can include one or more of the following optional features. The step of adjusting the flexible cuff body involves pivoting a series of links of the flexible cuff body that are adjustably connected to each other and disposed within a padded sleeve of the flexible cuff body can include, method. In response to the step of adjusting the actuator on the handle body, a series of links of the flexible cuff body are mechanically fixed relative to each other to lock the flexible cuff body in a selected shape in a releasable manner. The limb of the patient is the patient's arm, leg, or torso.

[0012] Some aspects described herein include a system. The system includes the following: A bracket having an interface configured to connect to one or more rails of an operating table; and A rail assembly releasably connected to a surgical arm board, the rail assembly including a rail assembly bracket and one or more rails extending along one or more sides of the surgical arm board A surgical arm board including can include.

[0013] Certain embodiments, in certain instances, can achieve one or more of the following advantages. The systems, devices, and methods described herein provide a safer and more consistent approach for holding a patient and the patient's limbs in a fixed position on an operating table or medical transport device that reduces the likelihood that the patient or the patient's limb can move from a desired position and maintains the initial position of the patient or the patient's limb during a procedure or transport. Further, the systems, devices, and methods described herein advantageously provide a removable and reusable solution that can be readily adjusted to capture patients and patient parts of various sizes and can be easily adjusted to engage patients or patient limbs of different sizes and shapes.

[0014] Details of one or more embodiments are set forth in the accompanying drawings and the description below. Other features, objects, and advantages will be apparent from the description and accompanying drawings, and from the claims.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0015] [Figure 1] A perspective view of an exemplary system for positioning a patient, in accordance with some aspects of the present disclosure, is shown. [Figure 2] FIG. 2A shows a perspective view of an exemplary adjustable limb restraint connected to an operating table of the system of FIG. 1. FIG. 2B shows a perspective view of the adjustable limb restraint of FIG. 2A, with the protective sleeve not intentionally shown. [Figure 3] An exploded side view of the adjustable limb restraint of FIGS. 2A - B is shown. [Figure 4] The adjustable limb restraint of FIG. 3 in a different position is shown. [Figure 5] FIG. 5A shows a perspective view of a portion of the adjustable limb restraint of FIGS. 2A - B, with some links not intentionally shown. FIG. 5B shows a front view of the adjustable limb restraint of FIG. 5A. FIG. 5C shows a side view of the adjustable limb restraint of FIG. 5A. FIG. 5D shows a side view of the adjustable limb restraint of FIG. 5A in a different position. [Figure 6]Figure 6A shows an exemplary perspective view of the link of the adjustable limb restraint shown in Figures 2A-B and 5A-D, with cutting line 6B-6B. Figure 6B shows an exemplary perspective cross-section of the link along cutting line 6B-6B from Figure 6A. [Figure 7-1] Figure 7A shows a front view of Figure 5A with an exemplary transverse cable in an exemplary slack position. Figure 7B shows a front view of Figure 5A with an exemplary transverse cable in an exemplary locked position. Figure 7C shows a front view of Figure 7B with an exemplary longitudinal cable. [Figure 7-2] Figure 7D shows a perspective view of Figure 5A with exemplary force vectors superimposed on an exemplary adjustable limb restraint. Figure 7E shows a perspective view of Figure 6A with exemplary force vectors superimposed on an exemplary link. [Figure 8] Figure 8A shows an end view of another exemplary system for positioning a patient using an adjustable limb restraint, according to several aspects of the present disclosure. Figure 8B shows a top view of an exemplary portion of the adjustable limb restraint of the system in Figure 6A. Figure 8C shows a top view of another exemplary portion of the adjustable limb restraint of the system in Figure 8A. [Figure 9] Figure 9A shows a perspective view of another exemplary operating table, according to some aspect of the present disclosure, having a surgical armboard and with the rail system detached from the armboard. Figure 9B shows a perspective view of the exemplary operating table of Figure 9A, according to some aspect of the present disclosure, with the rail system attached to the armboard. Figure 9C shows a perspective view of the exemplary operating table of Figure 9B, according to some aspect of the present disclosure, with exemplary adjustable limb restraints connected to the armboard. [Figure 10] Figure 10A shows a bottom perspective view of an exemplary armboard according to several embodiments of the present disclosure. Figure 10B shows a bottom perspective view of another exemplary armboard according to several embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 11A] The following are perspective views of another exemplary system for positioning a patient relative to a medical transport device, according to some aspects of this disclosure. [Figure 11B]A top view of a further exemplary system for positioning a patient relative to another medical transport device, according to several aspects of this disclosure, is shown. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0016] Similar reference numerals in various drawings indicate the same elements.

[0017] Detailed explanation Referring to Figure 1, several embodiments of the system 100 for releasably holding a subject such as a patient 102 who is sedated or otherwise prepared for medical assistance in a selected position may include an adjustable restraint device 104 and an operating table 106. In the illustrated embodiment, the adjustable restraint device 104 is an adjustable limb restraint that is releasably fitted to a portion of the operating table 106 and can be manually adjusted to one of several curved or other user-selected shapes for improved and comfortable engagement with the limbs of the patient 102. The adjustable restraint device 104 of the system 100 can be releasably locked into a user-selected shape to securely hold the patient 102 in a selected position on the operating table 106, thereby reducing the possibility of the patient 102 unintentionally moving from the selection during a medical procedure. As detailed below (see, for example, Figures 5A-D and 6A-B), the adjustable restraint device 104 may employ a series of links 140 having improved end connectors 145, 146 that can simultaneously release adjacent links 140 to a shape selected by the user in response to user adjustment of the actuator.

[0018] Referring further to Figure 1, the operating table 106 may include one or more rails 110 extending along each side of the operating table 106. One or more rails 110 may extend from each side of the operating table 106. In some aspects, each side of the table 106 may include multiple rails 110 spaced apart along the length of the operating table 106, and in other aspects, each side of the operating table 106 may include a continuous rail 110 extending along the length of the operating table 106. For example, the left side 112 of the operating table 106 may include four rails 110 spaced apart along the length of the operating table 106, and the right side 114 of the operating table 106 may include four rails 110 spaced apart along the length of the operating table 106.

[0019] In the illustrated embodiment, system 100 includes a plurality of adjustable restraint devices 104 slidably fitted to an operating table 106. Each adjustable restraint device 104 is adjustable and can be formed as a flexible cuff system extending around a patient's limb (e.g., the patient's arm, leg, or torso). Each adjustable restraint device 104 can be operated independently by the user so that each restraint device 104 can be controlled separately by the user as needed. As illustrated, system 100 includes adjustable restraint devices of size and form of adjustable limb restraints 104 positioned and formed around the arms and legs of patient 102. In the illustrated embodiment, system 100 includes two adjustable limb restraints 104 for each arm of patient 102 and two adjustable limb restraints 104 for each leg of patient 102. In other embodiments, system 100 may include adjustable limb restraints 104 for each limb of patient 102. In other examples, system 100 may include adjustable limb restraints 104 for arms instead of legs, or adjustable limb restraints 104 for legs instead of arms.

[0020] Referring further to the illustrated aspect in Figure 1, the first portion of the adjustable limb restraint 104 is positioned on the right side 114 of the operating table 106, and the second portion of the adjustable limb restraint 104 is positioned on the left side 112 of the operating table 106. In this aspect, the system 100 includes four adjustable limb restraints 104 on the right side 114 and four adjustable limb restraints 104 on the left side 112. Although four adjustable limb restraints 104 on each side of the operating table 106 are shown, the system 100 is not limited to this arrangement. The system 100 may include one adjustable limb restraint 104, two or more adjustable limb restraints 104, or multiple adjustable limb restraints 104. The adjustable limb restraint 104 illustrated in Figure 1 preferably includes a protective outer sleeve (described in more detail below) to provide a padded contact area with the patient and to protect the internal mechanism of each adjustable limb restraint 104, although Figure 1 illustrates one adjustable limb restraint 104a in which the protective sleeve is intentionally not shown for illustrative purposes. In some embodiments, the protective sleeve can be slidably removed from the adjustable limb restraint 104 so that the sleeve can be easily disposed of in a hygienic manner after its use, and the remaining components of the adjustable limb restraint 104 can receive a new protective sleeve for reuse in subsequent medical procedures.

[0021] In some embodiments, each of the adjustable limb restraints 104 can be detachably connected to one of the rails 110 of the operating table 106. For example, each adjustable limb restraint 104 includes a handle body 118 that defines a recess configured to slidably engage with at least one of the rails 110. When in use, the adjustable limb restraint 104 is movable along the rails 110 to a user-selected position relative to the operating table 106 (for example, to customize the longitudinal position of patients of different sizes or positions), and the adjustable limb restraint 104 can be detachably locked to its selected position along the rails 110 during a medical procedure.

[0022] Referring here to Figures 2A-B, several embodiments of the adjustable restraint device 104 may include a protective sleeve 130 and an internal mechanism 140 for releasably locking the restraint device 104 into a curved or other user-selected shape for comfortable engagement with the patient. Figure 2A shows a perspective view of one of the adjustable limb restraint devices 104, which includes a flexible cuff body 105 extending distally from a handle body 118 toward the free end. The handle body 118 is connected to one of the rails 110 of the operating table 106 of the system 100, as previously described in relation to Figure 1. In this embodiment, the flexible cuff body 105 includes a protective sleeve 130 slidably positioned on the internal mechanism 140 (e.g., the connecting assembly in this embodiment, as shown in Figure 2B, where the protective sleeve 130 is intentionally not shown for illustrative purposes) to provide a cushioned contact area with the patient and a sterile protective cover over the mechanical components of the mechanism 140. The protective sleeve 130 may include a pad that can prevent pinching between the series of links 140, and the protective sleeve 130 may include a fluid-impermeable outer material to facilitate the rapid cleaning or removal of bodily fluids from the adjustable limb restraint 104.

[0023] In this embodiment, the flexible cuff body 105 (including the protective sleeve 130 and the mechanism 140) has an adjustable shape and can be releasably locked into a selected shape, or unlocked to manually manipulate the connecting assembly 140 (and together with the sleeve 130) into a different shape. In the illustrated embodiment, the flexible cuff body 105 is in a curved configuration configured to extend around a patient's limb (e.g., the arm, leg, or torso of patient 102). The flexible cuff body 105 can be adjusted to a customizable orientation to hold the limb of patient 102, and the customizable orientation may include several different configurations, as shown and described below. As detailed below, the overall shape of the flexible cuff body 105 can be releasably locked into a user-selected orientation to maintain its shape for holding the patient in position during a surgical procedure.

[0024] The handle body 118 of the adjustable limb restraint 104 is configured to releasably lock the adjustable limb restraint 104 in a selected longitudinal position along the corresponding rail 110. The handle body 118 receives the rail 110 and defines a mating interface 120 dimensioned to slidably engage with the rail 110. In some aspects, the mating interface 120 is formed as a recess (for example, oriented parallel to the rail 110) in the base-side handle body 118 such that the rail 110 extends through the mating interface 120 and remains in contact with the handle body 118. In some aspects, the position of the adjustable limb restraint 104 along the rail 110 can be fixed by an actuator of the handle body 118. For example, the handle body 118 may include a rotatable knob 160 (Figure 2A) which can facilitate releasably locking the adjustable limb restraint 104 in a selected position along the rail 110. In this example, the adjustable limb restraint 104 can be slidably moved along the rail 110 via a connection between the rail 110 and the mating interface 120 to reach a selected longitudinal position along the rail 110. After reaching this position selected by the user, the knob 160 can be rotated to bias the shaft (not shown) of the knob 160 into an interference fit with the rail 110, thereby releasably locking the adjustable limb restraint 104 in the selected longitudinal position along the rail 110. To readjust the adjustable limb restraint 104 relative to the rail 110, the knob 160 can be rotated in the opposite direction (loosening the knob 160), thereby moving the adjustable limb restraint 104 along the rail 110 (moving it slidably).

[0025] Referring further to Figures 2A-B, several embodiments of the adjustable restraint device 104 also include another actuator that the user can shift to releasely lock the mechanism 140 in a configuration of user choice. For example, in this embodiment, the adjustable limb restraint device 104 includes an actuator in the form of a handle 170 on a handle body 118, which can be swiveled to actuate a mechanical lock on a series of links in the coupling assembly 140. As shown in Figure 2B, the coupling assembly 140 extends from the handle body 118 away from the rail 110 / fitting interface 120, and the series of links in the coupling assembly 140 are swivel-connected to each other so that the entire length of the coupling assembly 140 can be manually adjusted from a first position (e.g., a vertically straight configuration as in the configuration of Figure 3, or other shapes directed away from the patient's position on the operating table 106) to a second position (e.g., curved to wrap around a target portion of the patient, or other customized). Therefore, the relative rotational adjustment of adjacent links in a series of links 140 extending away from the handle body 118 facilitates the user to change the angle of the adjustable limb restraint 104 (for example, toward an angle non-parallel to the side of the rail 110 and the operating table 106) and to change the shape of the adjustable limb restraint 104 (for example toward a curved configuration in the illustrated embodiment). Additionally or alternatively, adjacent links in the series of links 140 may also be connected via one or more movable joints that provide movement beyond hinge connections, such as swivel joints or ball joint components, to provide multiple degrees of freedom between adjacent links in the series of links 140. For example, adjacent links in the series of links 140 may be connected via one or more cables and engaging teeth that operate between locked and unlocked states to facilitate the user to change the angle of the adjustable limb restraint 104 to a desired position and to lock the adjustable limb restraint 104 in a desired position.

[0026] In the illustrated embodiment, the flexible cuff body 105 can be shifted between a locked position and an unlocked position using the handle actuator 170 of the handle body 118. The handle 170 can be positioned on the outward-facing side of the handle body 118 so that the user can access the handle 170 while the adjustable limb restraint 104 is connected to the operating table 106. The handle 170 can control tension elements or other locking devices acting on a series of links 140 extending from the handle body 118. In some aspects, the series of links 140 are connected to the handle body 118 via a base 172 that extends upward away from the mating interface 120 of the handle body 118.

[0027] The handle 170 is movable between an unlocked position (see Figure 2A) and a locked position (see Figure 2B). For example, the handle 170 can be shifted from the unlocked position (Figure 2A) to the locked position (Figure 2B) by grasping the handle 170 and pivoting it downward so as to move it away from the base 172 and the first link of the coupling system 140. When the handle 170 is in the unlocked position, the flexible cuff body 105 can be manually adjusted to a user-selected position, such as the curved configuration shown in Figure 2B. For example, with the handle 170 in the unlocked position, the user can adjust the overall shape of the flexible cuff body 105 (and the configuration of the series of links 140) to achieve a user-selected configuration that fits any patient from a variety of different patient sizes, different limb types, and different limb placements on the operating table 106 (or release it from the patient after use). In some cases, the series of links 140 are each configured to pivot relative to one another, providing multiple degrees of freedom that allow the user to form the series of links 140 into various shapes and sizes. When the handle 170 is shifted to the locked position, the flexible cuff body 105 is releasably locked in a user-selected configuration, such as the curved configuration shown in Figure 2B. For example, the flexible cuff body 105 can be operated or adjusted by the user to a user-selected configuration (while the handle 170 is in the unlocked position), and then locked in that user-selected configuration (by shifting the handle 170 to the locked position).

[0028] Accordingly, several embodiments of the adjustable limb restraint 104 can be releasably locked into a number of customizable positions to be selected by the user (e.g., surgeon, nurse, physical therapist, physician, surgical technician, veterinarian, or other user) in order to achieve a safe and comfortable device for maintaining the patient's position on the operating table 106. Examples of patient positions that can be maintained by the adjustable limb restraint 104 include, but are not limited to, the supine, prone, lateral, and transverse positions.

[0029] Referring here to Figure 3, several embodiments of the adjustable limb restraint 104 include a slidably removable protective sleeve 130, which includes an inner pocket configured to receive the free end of the linking assembly 140. The protective sleeve 130 can be a padded sleeve extending around a series of links 140. For example, the proximal end 180 of the protective sleeve 130 may include an opening to the inner pocket space so that the protective sleeve 130 can be pulled over the most distal end link 182 of the series of links 140. The protective sleeve 130 can be advanced along the series of links 140 until the proximal end 180 covers the base 172. As previously mentioned, the protective sleeve 130 may include padding that can provide cushioning and comfort to the patient and further prevent pinching between the series of links 140, and the protective sleeve 130 may include a fluid-impermeable outer material to facilitate quick cleaning of the adjustable limb restraint 104. In some situations, the protective sleeve 130 may remain on the adjustable limb restraint 104 during the cleaning or sterilization process, or in other embodiments, the protective sleeve 130 may be removed from the adjustable limb restraint 104 for cleaning or sterilization. Additionally or alternatively, the protective sleeve may be slidably removed from the connecting assembly 140 so that the sleeve 130 can be easily and hygienically disposed of after use with a first patient, and the remaining components of the adjustable limb restraint 104 may receive a new protective sleeve for reuse in subsequent medical procedures (e.g., with a different patient). As shown in Figure 3, the adjustable limb restraint 104 may be positioned in a vertical configuration (extending upward away from the handle body 118) so that the connecting assembly 140 extends away from the operating table 106. This vertical configuration can facilitate the insertion or removal of the protective sleeve 130. Furthermore, in some situations, this vertical configuration can also be temporarily employed during medical imaging in the area of ​​the patient's limbs near the adjustable limb restraint 104, while the patient is on the operating table, while the patient is not on the table.

[0030] Referring here to Figure 4, the adjustable limb restraint 104 (protective sleeves are intentionally not shown for illustrative purposes) can be positioned in a horizontal configuration, such that a series of links of the connecting assembly 140 extend substantially perpendicular to the configuration shown in Figure 3. In some aspects, the horizontal position of the adjustable limb restraint 104 can allow the adjustable limb restraint 104 to be laid flat on the operating table 106, for example, when that part of the operating table is not in use.

[0031] Referring here to Figures 5A-D and 6A-B, several embodiments of the adjustable limb restraint 104 may include a connecting assembly 240 with improved end connectors 145, 146 that releasably engage (in response to movement of the handle actuator 170) to releasably lock adjacent links together with increased locking strength and torque resistance. In some embodiments, the connecting assembly 240 may replace the connecting assembly 140 of the adjustable limb restraint 104. A portion 241 of the connecting assembly 240 is shown, but the connecting assembly 240 may include any number of links, including the same number or similar number of links as the connecting assembly 140. For example, a portion 241 of the connecting assembly 240 may replace a portion 141 of the connecting assembly 140 in Figure 3. In the illustrated embodiments, a portion 241 of the connecting assembly 240 is shown, and some of the links of the connecting assembly 240 are intentionally not shown. For example, a portion 241 of the linking assembly 240 may include any portion of a link throughout the entire linking assembly 240 (for example, a portion 141 of a link near the distal end of the linking assembly 140, as illustrated in Figure 3). From this description, it should be understood that the features of a portion 241 of the linking assembly 240 may be applicable to the entire linking assembly 240 or to a portion of the linking assembly 240.

[0032] In this embodiment, each of the links 142a to c of the linking assembly 240 may include a pair of first end connectors 145 positioned along the opposing axial ends of the link body 143, and a pair of second end connectors 146 extending from a transverse bracket 149 of the link body 143. As will be described in more detail below, in this illustrated example, the first end connectors 145 may take the form of bevel spline receivers having a pair of splines or teeth along an internal conical surface, and each pair of bevel spline receivers 145 is axially aligned along the first axis 147 of the link body 143. In this example, the second end connectors 146 may take the form of bevel splines having a corresponding pair of teeth along an external conical surface, and each pair of bevel splines 146 is axially aligned along the second axis 153 of the transverse bracket 149. Each of the links 142a-142c of the linking assembly 240 is pivotable relative to each adjacent link about a pivot axis corresponding to the axis (e.g., either the first axis 147 or the second axis 153) on which the second end connector 146 mates with the first end connector 145, thereby facilitating the user's selection of various customized orientations of the linking assembly 240 (until the linking assembly is locked). As shown in Figures 5A-D, link 142a is connected to link 142b, link 142b is connected to link 142c, and this sequence can continue over a greater number of links. In the exemplary embodiment, link 142a is shown except for one adjacent link (e.g., the one on the opposite side of link 142b). Links 142a, 142b, and 142c can share with each other features that facilitate the connection of links 142a-142c (and other similar links) to form a portion 241 of the linking assembly 240. Link 142c is shown connected to end link 148, but link 142c can be replaced with any number of additional links to form the linking assembly 240. Additionally or alternatively, any number of links can also be connected to link 142a to form the linking assembly 240.In some embodiments, an end link 148 of a portion 241 of the linking assembly 240 can replace the most distal end link 182 of the linking assembly 140. The end link 148 can facilitate connection to another end link or linking assembly. For example, the end link 148 can be configured to connect to another end link (e.g., another end link 148) in order to connect the linking assembly 240 to another linking assembly (see, for example, Figure 8A).

[0033] Referring to Figures 5A-D and 6A-B, the improved end connectors 145, 146 can be implemented such that all of the end connectors 145, 146 simultaneously and releasably lock adjacent links together with increased locking strength and torque resistance in response to user-operated movement of the handle actuator 170, each of the links 142a-142c includes a first end connector 145 on each side of the link 142a-142c, the first end connector 145 may be in the form of a bevel spline receiving having a pair of splines or teeth along an internal conical surface. Links 142a, 142b include a second end connector 146 extending from each side of a bracket 149 connected to the links 142a, 142b, the second end connector 146 may be in the form of a bevel spline having a corresponding pair of teeth along an external conical surface. Adjacent links (for example, links 142a and 142b) are connected by inserting the second end connector 146 of one link (for example, link 142a) into the first end connector 145 of the adjacent link (for example, link 142b).

[0034] The first end connector 145 has a tapered shape configured to receive the tapered shape of the second end connector 146. The first end connector 145 has recesses on each side of links 142a to 142c, and the recessed area of ​​the first end connector 145 has a tapered shape that is widest at the outer edge of the first end connector 145 and narrowest at the innermost part of the recessed area of ​​the first end connector 145.

[0035] The second end connector 146 extends from the opposing inward-facing surface 150 of the bracket 149. The bracket 149 extends along the bottom surface of each link and includes a flexible region 151 on each side of the bracket 149 that extends from the first end connector 145 and connects to the inward-facing surface 150 of the bracket 149. The bracket 149 extends from the link such that the second end connector 146 of each link is positioned approximately below the first end connector 145 (for example, in the orientation illustrated in Figures 5A-5D). For example, the flexible region 151 of the bracket 149 extends inward from the first end connector 145 and includes a curved portion 152 in the innermost region of the flexible region 151. The curved portion 152 can change the direction of the flexible region 151 from extending inward to extending outward, so that the flexible region 151 extends outward from the curved portion 152 to the inward-facing surface 150. For example, the curved portion 152 can include a 180-degree bend that changes the direction of the flexible region 151 from extending inward to extending outward.

[0036] Referring further to Figures 5A-D and 6A-B, the flexible region 151 of the bracket 149 facilitates the deflection of the second end connector 146 and the inward-facing surface 150. For example, the flexible region 151 (including, for example, the curved portion 152) can be a cantilever spring that deflects in response to a force applied in the x or y axis (see, for example, Figures 7A-E). The cantilever spring shape of the flexible region 151 of the bracket 149 facilitates the engagement and disengagement of the second end connectors 146 from each other, which releasably lock the connecting assembly 240 into a shape selected by the user, or unlock it to manually manipulate the connecting assembly 240 into a different shape.

[0037] The second end connector 146 has a tapered shape that is widest on the inward-facing surface 151 of the bracket 149 and narrowest at its innermost end. The narrowest portion of the second end connector 146 is configured to be inserted into the narrowest portion of the first end connector 145 (for example, the innermost portion of the first end connector 145). The second end connector 146 and the first end connector 145 are configured to fit together so as to lock adjacent links in a releaseable position and to facilitate adjustment of the relative positions of the links to each other in orientations chosen by various users.

[0038] The inward-facing surface 150 of the bracket 149 positions the second end connector 146 approximately below the first end connector 145 to facilitate the connection of links to each other to form a connecting assembly 240. For example, adjacent links are configured to be received between the inward-facing surfaces 150 of the bracket 149, and the second end connector 146 is received by the first end connector 145 of the adjacent link. The first end connector 145 may form a bevel spline receiving portion having a pair of splines or teeth along its internal conical surface, and the second end connector 146 may form a bevel spline having a corresponding pair of teeth along its external conical surface. Each pair of bevel spline receiving portions in the first end connector 145 is axially aligned along the first axis 147 of the link body 143 and can receive a corresponding pair of second connectors 146 from an adjacent bracket 149 such that the second axis 153 of the second connector 146 of the adjacent link (e.g., link 142c) aligns with the first axis 147 of the link (e.g., link 142b).

[0039] Referring further to Figures 5A-D and 6A-B, each link (e.g., links 142a, 142b, 142c) includes one or more openings configured to receive one or more cables extending through one or more openings. In some embodiments, each link (e.g., links 142a, 142b, 142c) includes a first opening 155 positioned along the link body 143 between first end connectors 145 at each end of the link. In the illustrated embodiments, the first opening 155 is central or near-center along the link body 143. The linking assembly 240 includes a plurality of first openings 155 in each link body 143 of the linking assembly 240. The plurality of first openings 155 are aligned with one another so that a single longitudinal cable can extend through the plurality of first openings 155 (see, for example, Figures 7A-D).

[0040] In some embodiments, each link (e.g., links 142a, 142b, 142c) and each bracket 149 include a transverse opening 157 on the opposing side of the bracket 149. The transverse opening 157 extends through the bracket 149 to the inward-facing surface 150 and through the second end connector 146. The transverse openings 157 on each side of the bracket 149 are aligned with each other (e.g., along a second axis 153) so that a transverse cable can extend between the transverse openings 157 of each link. In some embodiments, each link can define an opening or passage so that the transverse openings 157 can be aligned with each other so that a longitudinal cable can connect the transverse openings 157 along the second axis 153. For example, each link may be substantially hollow and have an open space to facilitate connection between each transverse opening 157.

[0041] Referring to Figures 7A-D, several embodiments of the adjustable limb restraint 104 may include one or more tensioners or locking devices that engage with a series of links in a connecting assembly 240 to releasably lock the connecting assembly 240 in a selected position (in response to the operation of the handle 170). For example, the adjustable limb restraint 104 may include a longitudinal cable 190 extending from the handle body 118 through a series of links 140 of the flexible cuff body 105, and a plurality of transverse cables 192 extending across each link of the series of links 140 and connecting to the longitudinal cable 190. In some aspects, the adjustable limb restraint 104 may include a longitudinal cable 190 extending through a plurality of first openings 155 of each link body 143 of the series of links 140. In the illustrated embodiment, the adjustable limb restraint 104 may include a single longitudinal cable 190. In another example, the adjustable limb restraint 104 may include two or more longitudinal cables. For example. The adjustable limb restraint 104 may include two longitudinal cables 190 (e.g., a right-side cable and a left-side cable), the two longitudinal cables 190 may extend parallel to each other as they extend through a series of links 140.

[0042] In some aspects, the adjustable limb restraint 104 includes a plurality of transverse cables 192. Each of the transverse cables 192 extends from one side to the other through a link (for example, along the first axis 147 of the link body 143). For example, each transverse cable 192 extends through each transverse opening 157 of each bracket. The transverse cables 192 can be connected to the bracket 149 such that the transverse cables 192 extend across the width of the connecting assembly 240. For example, the transverse cables 192 may include fasteners 193 on the outside of the bracket 149 that secure the transverse cables 192 to the bracket 149. In some embodiments, the fasteners 193 may be fixed inside the transverse opening 157 or fixed to the outer surface of the bracket 149 (for example, by having a size larger than the transverse opening 157).

[0043] In some embodiments, the lateral cable 192 can facilitate connection between adjacent links. For example, the lateral cable 192 can extend through the lateral opening 157 of the bracket 149 of the first link (e.g., link 142a) into an adjacent link (e.g., link 142b) positioned between the inward-facing faces 150 of the bracket 149 of the first link. In this example, the lateral cable 192 extends along the second axis 153 of the bracket 149 of link 142 and along the first axis 147 of link 142b. In the connected configuration, the first axis 147 of link 142b is aligned with the second axis 153 of link 142a. The lateral cable 192 can extend through the bracket 149 and the second end connector 146 of the first link, and through the first end connector 145 of the adjacent link.

[0044] In some embodiments, the longitudinal cable 190 can be connected to each of the transverse cables 192. For example, the longitudinal cable 190 may include a plurality of fasteners 194 positioned along the longitudinal cable 190 to connect to each of the transverse cables 192. The fasteners 194 may include strings, knots, clips, screws, pins, or other fasteners that connect the longitudinal cable 190 to each of the transverse cables 192. In some embodiments, the fasteners 194 can facilitate the connection between the longitudinal cable 190 and each of the transverse cables 192 such that each of the transverse cables 192 is actuated by the longitudinal cable 190 in response to a locking action of the longitudinal cable 190 (for example, via the action of a handle 170).

[0045] Referring to Figures 7A-D and 2A-B, the handle 170 can be connected to the longitudinal cable 190 such that when the handle 170 is actuated, the longitudinal cable 190 is adjusted. Therefore, when the handle 170 is actuated from the unlocked position to the locked position, the longitudinal cable 190 can be biased, and a force can be applied to the series of links in the linking assembly 240 that locks the link in the selected position. For example, when the handle 170 is actuated to the locked position, the handle 170 can apply a tensile force 201 to the longitudinal cable 190. The tensile force 201 on the longitudinal cable 190 generates a tensile force 202 in each transverse cable 192 via its connection to the longitudinal cable 190. The tensile force in each transverse cable 192 can cause each transverse cable 192 to bend from the unlocked position (see, for example, Figure 7A) to the locked position (see, for example, Figures 7B-C).

[0046] The tensile force in each lateral cable 192 and the resulting deflection of each lateral cable 192 generates a compressive force 203 in each fastener 193. The compressive force 203 presses the second end connector 146 against the first end connector 145, and imparts a tensile force 204 to the second end connector 146. The compressive force 203 and the tensile force 204 press the second end connector 146 and the first end connector 145 against each other, forming a frictional engagement, thereby holding each link in the connecting assembly 240 in a fixed position relative to each adjacent link. In some embodiments, the flexible region 151 of each bracket 149 facilitates the deflection of the flexible region 151 in the z-axis (see, for example, Figure 7E) in response to the compressive force 203. The deflection of the flexible region 151 allows the second end connector 146 to move toward the first end connector 145. In the locked position (see, for example, Figures 7B-C), the second end connector 146 and the first end connector 145 press against each other, preventing relative rotation between them. For example, in the locked position, the second end connector 146 and the first end connector 145 are prevented from rotating too much relative to each other, and they interlock with each other to fix the connecting assembly 240 in place.

[0047] When the handle 170 is shifted to the unlocked position, the tension in the longitudinal cable 190 is released, thereby releasing the locking caused by frictional engagement between the links and allowing adjustment of the configuration of the coupling assembly 240. In the unlocked position (see, for example, Figure 7A), the second end connector 146 and the first end connector 145 may remain in contact with each other, and the compressive force 203 is released to allow pivoting movement between the second end connector 146 and the first end connector 145. For example, in the unlocked position, the second end connector 146 and the first end connector 145 can pivot toward each other and toward the second end connector 146 to facilitate forming the coupling assembly 240 into various user-selected shapes and sizes.

[0048] Figure 7E shows a perspective view of Figure 6A with an exemplary force vector superimposed on one of the links (e.g., link 142a) of the linking assembly 240. In some embodiments, the link body 143 is a rigid body subjected to a compressive force (e.g., compressive force 203). In response to the compressive force 203 on each side of link 142a, the link body 143 provides a tensile force 204 to counteract the compressive force 203. The tensile force 204 and the compressive force 203 can be aligned with the x-axis as illustrated in Figure 7E and a first axis 147 as illustrated in Figure 6A.

[0049] The flexible region 151 of the bracket 149 facilitates the deflection of the second end connector 146 and the inward-facing surface 150. For example, the flexible region 151 (including, for example, the curved portion 152) can be a cantilever spring that deflects in a direction 208 about the z axis in response to a force applied along the x axis, the first axis 147, or the y axis (see, for example, Figures 6A and 7A-E). The cantilever spring shape of the flexible region 151 of the bracket 149 facilitates the engagement and disengagement of the second end connectors 146 from one another, which allows the coupling assembly 240 to be releasably locked into a selected shape or unlocked to manually manipulate the coupling assembly 240 into a different shape.

[0050] As described above, by operating the flexible cuff body 105 in the unlocked position, the flexible cuff body 105 can be formed into various customizable shapes and sizes. For example, a series of links 140 of the flexible cuff body 105 can define an opening sized to accommodate a patient's limb. By manipulating the flexible cuff body 105 into various shapes and sizes, the overall shape and size of the opening can be adjusted. For example, a series of links 140 of the flexible cuff body 105 can be formed into an open-end hook. The open-end hook can start from a base 172 and end with an end link 182. The open-end hook can extend vertically from the base 172 and can be bent outward (i.e., away from the table) to extend the opening for the patient's limb away from the table side. A series of links 140 can extend in a curved pattern, terminating at end links 182, which are positioned near or above a table (e.g., an operating table 106), and the base 172 is positioned slightly below the end links 182.

[0051] Various configurations can be formed for the flexible cuff body 105. For example, Figure 1 shows an adjustable limb restraint 104 formed in a closed-loop configuration, where the adjustable limb restraint 104 forms a closed loop with the adjustable limb restraint 104 or with the operating table 106. The closed loop can prevent the patient's limb from slipping out of the adjustable limb restraint 104. Figures 3 and 4 illustrate other configurations of the adjustable limb restraint 104 (e.g., vertical and horizontal configurations). Other exemplary configurations include, but are not limited to, a conical shape in which one end of a series of links 140 may have a smaller diameter than the other end. In some examples, the adjustable limb restraint 104 may include several (e.g., 4 to 6 or more) smaller, loosely connected individual linking systems that can be manipulated to fit more closely to the patient's limb.

[0052] Figure 8A shows an end view of another exemplary system 600 for positioning a patient. In the exemplary embodiment, the system 600 includes a first adjustable limb restraint 604a on the first side of the operating table 606 and a second adjustable limb restraint 604b on the second (opposite) side of the operating table 606. In the illustrated embodiment, the protective sleeves (described above) of each restraint device 604a, 604b are intentionally not shown for illustrative purposes. Each adjustable limb restraint 604a, 604b may share features with the adjustable limb restraint 104 described in detail above. For example, each adjustable limb restraint 604a, 604b may include handle bodies 618a, 618b that connect to the corresponding rail 610 of the operating table 606. As shown in Figure 8A, the adjustable limb restraints 604a, 604b are sized and positioned to extend over the operating table 606 so that their respective free ends meet each other. Optionally, protective sleeves on each adjustable limb restraint 604a, 604b may also provide distal end access to fasteners positioned on the end links 682a, 682b of each adjustable limb restraint 604a, 604b (see also Figures 6B-C). Thus, the free ends of opposing limb restraints 604a, 604b can be fixed to each other, and the adjustable limb restraints 604a, 604b can extend across the operating table 606 over the patient's torso, allowing the patient to be releasably fixed in a select position on the operating table 606.

[0053] In some embodiments, adjustable limb restraints 604a, 604b may extend across the operating table 606 and over the patient's torso to releasably secure the patient in a selected position on the operating table 606 and protect the patient. For example, adjustable limb restraints 604a, 604b may extend across the operating table 606 and over the patient's torso, providing a rigid surface above the patient's torso. The rigid surface provided by the adjustable limb restraints 604a, 604b can protect the area in question (e.g., torso, limbs, etc.) from abrasions, burns, cuts, subcutaneous hemorrhages, and other unwanted contact with the patient in the area of ​​the adjustable limb restraints 604a, 604b.

[0054] As shown in Figures 8B-8C, the end links 682a, 682b of opposing adjustable limb restraints 604a, 604b can be configured to fasten to each other via magnetic or mechanical connections. For example, in Figure 6B, the end links 682a, 682b are configured to connect to each other via magnets 684a, 684b within each end link 682a, 682b. The magnets 684a, 684b provide a releasable connection between the end links 682a, 682b. Alternatively or additionally, as shown in Figure 8C, the end links 682a, 682b are configured to connect to each other via fasteners 686a, 686b within each end link 682a, 682b. For example, fastener 686a may include a female receptacle, and fastener 686b may include a male connector sized to mate with the female receptacle of fastener 686a. The fasteners 686a and 686b provide a detachable connection between the end links 682a and 682b.

[0055] In some embodiments, the adjustable limb restraints 604a, 604b (and adjustable limb restraint 104) may incorporate temperature control elements that enable the adjustable limb restraints to assist in managing the patient's body temperature and comfort. For example, the adjustable limb restraints 604a, 604b (and adjustable limb restraint 104) may include one or more heating elements that can be heated to provide a warming effect to the patient within the adjustable limb restraint. In some embodiments, the temperature control elements may be pneumatic controls (e.g., environmentally conditioned air, fluid, and / or gas) that can be distributed throughout the adjustable limb restraint. For example, the protective sleeve 130 may be connected to a blower assembly configured to supply environmentally conditioned air or gas to the protective sleeve to heat or cool the adjustable limb restraint. The protective sleeve may be airtight to prevent fluid or gas from leaking out of the protective sleeve 130.

[0056] Referring here to Figures 9A-C, several embodiments of the system 700 using one or more adjustable limb restraints 704 can be employed to position the patient's arm on a surgical armboard 707. The operating table 706 can share features with the operating table 106. For example, the operating table 706 may include one or more rails 710 extending along each side of the operating table 706, similar to the rails 110 extending along each side of the operating table 106. The surgical armboard 707 can be fixed to the operating table 706 by connecting to one of the rails 710.

[0057] In some embodiments, the surgical armboard 707 may include a rail assembly 711 that is detachably attached to the surgical armboard 707. The rail assembly 711 may include an armboard rail 713 that extends along the side of the surgical armboard 707 when the rail assembly 711 is attached to the surgical armboard 707. In some embodiments, the armboard rail 713 may extend from the surgical armboard 707, as well as the rail 710 and the operating table 706.

[0058] In the illustrated system 700, one or more adjustable limb restraints 704 may share features of the adjustable limb restraints 104, 604a, 604b described in detail above, including the connecting assemblies 140, 240 described in detail above. The handle body 718 (similar to body 118) of the adjustable limb restraint 704 may connect to the armboard rail 713 of the surgical armboard 707 to provide a releasable engagement with the armboard 707, and the handle body 718 may include a handle actuator (similar to actuator 170) that shifts between an unlocked position and a locked position, thereby releasably locking the connecting assembly to a selected position around the patient's limb. The adjustable limb restraint 704 may extend around the patient's arm to fix the positioning of the arm on the armboard 707. The adjustable limb restraint 704 may include a padded sleeve (e.g., similar to padded sleeve 130) which is not intentionally shown in Figure 9C for illustrative purposes.

[0059] Referring to Figure 10A, the surgical armboard 707 is illustrated with a rail assembly 711a attached to the bottom surface 715 of the surgical armboard 707. The rail assembly 711a may include a bracket 717 attached to the bottom surface 715 of the surgical armboard 707. For example, the bracket 717 may be attached to the bottom surface 715 via fasteners that extend into the surgical armboard 707 to secure the rail assembly 711a to the surgical armboard 707. The bracket 717 may be spaced apart along the bottom surface 715 of the surgical armboard 707. The bracket 717 may extend downward away from the bottom surface 707 and connect to the armboard rail 713. The surgical armboard 707 includes a mounting bracket 719 that receives the rail 710 and defines a mating interface 720 dimensioned to slidably engage with the rail 710.

[0060] Referring to Figure 10B, the surgical armboard 707 is illustrated with a rail assembly 711b attached to the bottom surface 715 of the surgical armboard 707. The rail assembly 711b may include a bracket 721 extending around each side of the bottom surface 715 of the surgical armboard 707. The bracket 721 may be clamped around the surgical armboard 707 (e.g., via a tension member 723) to provide an easily removable rail assembly 711b. The bracket 721 may extend downward away from the bottom surface 707 and connect to the armboard rail 713. The surgical armboard 707 includes a mounting bracket 719 that receives the rail 710 and defines a mating interface 720 dimensioned to slidably engage with the rail 710. The rail assembly 711 in Figure 9C may be the rail assembly 711a or 711b in Figures 10A-B.

[0061] Referring to Figures 11A-B, several embodiments of adjustable limb restraints can be used in systems 800, 850 to maintain the position of a patient relative to a medical transport device. For example, as shown in Figure 8A, system 800 includes a portable stretcher 806 (for example, for transport in and out of an ambulance or through a medical facility building) having one or more adjustable limb restraints 804a, 804 connected to one or more rails 810 of the portable stretcher 806. The adjustable limb restraints 804a, 804 can share the features of the adjustable limb restraints 104a, 104, 604a, 604b described in detail above, including a handle body and coupling assembly that can be operated to lock in a releaseably releasable manner in a customized configuration. The adjustable limb restraint 804 includes a protective sleeve (similar to the sleeve 130 described above), and the protective sleeve for the adjustable limb restraint 804a is intentionally not shown in Figure 8A for illustrative purposes only. In another example, as shown in Figure 8B, the system 850 includes a stretcher board 856 (for example, configured to receive a patient for transport by one or more users carrying the stretcher board) having a pair of adjustable limb restraints 854 connected to the side edges of a portable stretcher 856 (in a longitudinal position) between one or more handles 860. The adjustable limb restraints 854 may share features of the adjustable limb restraints 104a, 104, 604a, 604b, and 804 described in detail above, including a handle body and connecting assembly that can be operated to lock in a releaseably releasable manner in a customized configuration. The adjustable limb restraints 854 may include a protective sleeve (for example, similar to the protective sleeve 130), which is intentionally not shown in Figure 8B for illustrative purposes.

[0062] Referring here to Figure 9, several embodiments of the patient positioning system 900 may include one or more adjustable restraint devices 904 that use a deformable internal wire structure to maintain a customized shape of the cuff body. For example, each restraint system 904 may include a deformable metal wire structure extending longitudinally within a padded outer body, and the deformable metal wire structure is plastically deformable by the user to bend or curve into a customized configuration to engage with the patient's limb. Thus, each adjustable restraint device 904 can be formed into various shapes to hold the patient in a fixed position on the operating table or surgical transport device. Each restraint system 904 may include a padded cover that shares features with the protective sleeve 130 described above. In some aspects, the restraint system 904 may include a mattress extension 909 that connects to the restraint system 904 and extends beneath the mattress resting on the operating table 906 to connect the restraint system to the operating table 906.

[0063] In some embodiments, the restraint systems described herein can be implemented on various operating tables for various patients and subjects. Although human subjects have been mentioned above, the restraint systems described herein are not limited to use on human subjects. For example, the restraint systems described herein can be implemented in veterinary applications. Veterinary applications may include animals of various shapes and sizes. The restraint systems described herein can facilitate customizable methods for restraining animals for veterinary procedures.

[0064] This specification includes many specific implementation details, but these details should not be construed as limitations on the disclosed technology or the scope of the claims, but rather as descriptions of features that may be specific to particular aspects of the disclosed technology. Certain features described herein in the context of separate aspects may be implemented in part or as a whole in combination in a single aspect. Conversely, various features described in the context of a single aspect may be implemented separately or as any suitable partial combination in multiple aspects. Furthermore, features may be described herein as operating in a particular combination and / or initially claimed as such, but one or more features from a claimed combination may, in some cases, be removed from that combination, and the claimed combination may be subject to partial combinations or variations of partial combinations. Similarly, operations may be described in a particular order, but this should not be understood as requiring such operations to be performed in a particular order or sequence, or that all operations must be performed, in order to achieve the desired result. A particular aspect of this subject matter has been described. Other aspects are included in the appended claims.

[0065] Therefore, other embodiments are included in the attached claims.

Claims

1. below: A flexible cuff body adjustable from a first orientation to a user-selected orientation for holding a limb in a selected position relative to a medical support, comprising a series of links adjustablely connected to each other via a series of first end connectors of each link body and one or more cables, each link body configured to connect to a series of second end connectors of a series of brackets; and A handle body connected to the base of the flexible cuff body, comprising a handle movable between a locked position and an unlocked position, defining a fitting interface that slidably engages with the medical support, Equipped with, In response to the handle being moved to the unlocked position, the flexible cuff body becomes adjustable from the first orientation to the orientation selected by the user so as to extend around the limb. While the flexible cuff body is in the orientation selected by the user, in response to the handle being moved to the locked position, the flexible cuff body is locked in the orientation selected by the user by pressing the first end connector and the second end connector against each other to hold the limb in the selected position relative to the medical support. A flexible cuff system for maintaining a patient's position in a resilient manner.

2. The one or more cables mentioned above A longitudinal cable extending from the handle body through the series of links of the flexible cuff body, which are adjustable, connectable, and movable to positions linked to one another. A flexible cuff system according to claim 1, comprising:

3. The flexible cuff system according to claim 1, wherein the series of first end connectors form a bevel spline receiving portion, and the series of second end connectors form a bevel spline.

4. The flexible cuff system according to claim 2, wherein each link comprises a transverse cable connected to the longitudinal cable.

5. The flexible cuff system according to claim 2, wherein the handle is connected to the longitudinal cable, and in response to the handle being moved to the locked position, the handle applies tension to the longitudinal cable, thereby fixing the series of links in the positions connected to each other.

6. The flexible cuff system according to claim 1, wherein, in response to the handle being moved to the unlocked position, the series of links become pivotable relative to each other to adjust the overall shape of the series of links.

7. The flexible cuff system according to claim 1, comprising a fastener configured such that the flexible cuff body extends away from the handle body toward the free end of the flexible cuff body, and the free end of the flexible cuff body is connected to a second flexible cuff body.

8. The flexible cuff system according to claim 5, wherein the medical support is an operating table, and the fitting interface of the handle body is configured to slidably engage with the rails of the operating table.

9. The flexible cuff system according to claim 5, wherein the medical support is an armbar extension of an operating table, and the fitting interface of the handle body is configured to slidably engage with the armbar extension of the operating table.

10. The flexible cuff system according to claim 5, wherein the flexible cuff body comprises a protective outer sleeve detachably positioned on the series of links of the flexible cuff body.

11. below: An operating table including one or more rails extending along one or more sides of the operating table; and A plurality of adjustable limb restraints that can be releasedly locked at a selectable position along one or more rails of the operating table, each of the adjustable limb restraints is A flexible cuff body adjustable from a first orientation to a user-selected orientation for holding a limb in a user-selected position relative to the operating table, comprising a series of links adjustablely connected to each other via one or more cables and a series of first end connectors of each link body configured to connect to a series of second end connectors of a series of brackets, A handle body, including a handle movable between a locked position and an unlocked position, connected to the base of the flexible cuff body, defining a fitting interface that slidably engages with at least one of the one or more rails, and Multiple adjustable limb restraints, including A system equipped with, In response to the handle being moved to the unlocked position, the flexible cuff body becomes adjustable from the first orientation to the orientation selected by the user so as to extend around the limb. While the flexible cuff body is in the orientation selected by the user, in response to the handle being moved to the locked position, the flexible cuff body is locked in the orientation selected by the user by pressing the first end connector and the second end connector against each other to hold the limb in the selected position relative to the operating table. system.

12. The aforementioned flexible cuff body, A longitudinal cable extending from the handle body through the series of links of the flexible cuff body, which are adjustable, connectable, and movable to positions linked to one another. The system according to claim 11, including the system described in claim 11.

13. The system according to claim 12, wherein, in response to the handle being moved to the unlocked position, the series of links are movable relative to each other to adjust the flexible cuff body to a user-selected orientation such that it extends around the limb.

14. The system according to claim 13, wherein, in response to the handle being moved to the locked position, the series of links are mechanically fixed to each other to lock the flexible cuff body so that it can be released in the orientation selected by the user.

15. The system according to claim 12, wherein the series of links become pivotable relative to each other in response to the handle being moved to the unlocked position, in order to adjust the overall shape of the flexible cuff body.

16. The system according to claim 11, wherein each of the plurality of adjustable limb restraints operates independently of one another.

17. A method for maintaining the patient's position, including the following steps: A step of locking the handle body of an adjustable limb restraint to the rails of an operating table in a releasable position relative to the patient's limb on the operating table; The steps of adjusting the flexible cuff body of the adjustable limb restraint to a shape selected for engagement with the patient's limb; and A step of adjusting the actuator on the handle body of the adjustable limb restraint to releasely lock the flexible cuff body in the selected shape by pressing a series of first end connectors and a series of second end connectors of the flexible cuff body against each other.

18. The step of adjusting the flexible cuff body is, A series of links of the flexible cuff body, which are adjustablely connected to each other and located within the padded sleeve of the flexible cuff body, are rotated. The method according to claim 17, including the method described in claim 17.

19. The method according to claim 17, wherein, in response to the step of adjusting the actuator on the handle body, a series of links of the flexible cuff body are mechanically fixed to one another to releasably lock the flexible cuff body in the selected shape.

20. The method according to claim 17, wherein the limb of the patient is the patient's arm, leg, or torso.

21. below: A bracket having an interface configured to connect to one or more rails of an operating table; and A rail assembly releasably connected to a surgical armboard, comprising a rail assembly bracket and one or more rails extending along one or more sides of the surgical armboard. The surgical armboard, including A system equipped with these features.

22. Adjustable limb restraints that can be releasedly locked at selectable positions along one or more rails of the surgical armboard. The system according to claim 21, further comprising:

Images