Head stabilization system and method having arc mechanism

Abstract

To provide a head fixation device that safely supports a patient's head in a specific position. [Solution] An exemplary head stabilization device or head fixation device (HFD) includes a central head support that provides horizontal support for a patient's head and multiple lateral head supports that provide lateral support for the patient's head. The central head support includes a cushion having one or more chambers that are fillable with a material. Similarly, the lateral head supports include respective pads having chambers that are fillable with a material. In some examples, the cushions and pads used by the HFD include ports that allow pressure control by controlling the volume of fluid within particular chambers of the cushions and / or pads.

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] Priority This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 662,874, filed April 26, 2018, entitled "Head Stabilization System and Method with Arc Features," and U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 545,785, filed August 15, 2017, entitled "Non-Invasive Head Fixation Device with Conforming Pads," the disclosures of which are incorporated herein by reference. [Background technology]

[0002] The disclosed systems and methods relate to the field of patient stabilization, and in particular to head and neck stabilization using stabilization devices known as head stabilization devices, also referred to as head fixation devices (hereinafter referred to as "HFDs" or in the singular "HFD"). HFDs may be used during various surgical and other medical procedures, such as during head or neck surgery or examinations, where it is desirable to safely support a patient's head in a particular position. Not all HFDs may be optimally adapted to provide the necessary patient stabilization, since the patient may need to be positioned in a particular manner for reasons of procedure or preference. A variety of stabilization devices have been made and used, but are believed to have not existed prior to the inventor(s) making and using the invention as described herein. Summary of the Invention

[0003] While the specification concludes with claims which particularly point out and distinctly claim the invention, it is believed the invention will be better understood from the following description of specific embodiments taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which like reference characters identify like elements and in which: [Brief description of the drawings]

[0004] [Figure 1]1 illustrates a perspective view of an exemplary HFD having an arc mechanism. [Diagram 2] 2 shows a front view of the HFD of FIG. 1. [Diagram 3] FIG. 2 illustrates a partial top perspective view of the HFD of FIG. 1. [Figure 4] FIG. 2 illustrates a partial bottom perspective view of the HFD of FIG. 1. [Diagram 5] FIG. 2 depicts a perspective view of the HFD of FIG. 1 shown with the stabilization assembly removed. [Figure 6] 6 illustrates a partial cross-sectional view of the HFD of FIG. 1 taken along line 6-6 of FIG. 3. [Figure 7] 2 depicts a partial perspective view of the HFD of FIG. 1 with certain components shown removed to better illustrate a portion of the central head support; [Figure 8] 8 illustrates a partial cross-sectional view of the HFD of FIG. 1 taken along line 8-8 in FIG. 7. [Figure 9] 1 illustrates a rear view of another exemplary HFD having a unidirectional arching mechanism. [Figure 10] 10 illustrates a partial perspective view of the arc member, position adapter, and locking member of the HFD of FIG. 9. [Figure 11] 10 depicts a perspective view of the HFD of FIG. 9 showing a patient's head stabilized with a skull clamp adjusted along an arc member. [Figure 12] 1 illustrates a perspective view of another exemplary HFD having a multi-chamber swiveling cushion. [Figure 13] FIG. 13 depicts a partial perspective view of the HFD of FIG. 12 showing the central head support in more detail. [Figure 14] FIG. 13 illustrates a perspective view of the base and cushion of the central head support of the HFD of FIG. [Figure 15] 13 depicts another perspective view of the HFD of FIG. 12 shown with the patient's head stabilized in a supine position. [Figure 16] 1 illustrates a perspective view of another exemplary HFD configured as a non-invasive HFD. [Figure 17] FIG. 17 illustrates a partial perspective view of a stabilization assembly of the HFD of FIG. 16. [Figure 18]FIG. 17 illustrates a rear perspective view of the cushion and pad used with the HFD of FIG. [Figure 19] FIG. 19 illustrates a cross-sectional view of the cushion and pad of FIG. [Figure 20] 17 illustrates an exemplary schematic diagram of the HFD of FIG. 16 with a fluid control system. [Figure 21] 17 illustrates an example schematic diagram of a fluid control system usable with the HFD of FIG. 16 and other HFDs described herein. [Figure 22] 1 illustrates a perspective view of another exemplary HFD including rotational adjustment of an arc member. [Figure 23] FIG. 23 depicts a partial perspective view of the HFD of FIG. 22, without the skull clamp, locking member, and actuator shown. [Figure 24] FIG. 24 depicts another partial perspective view of the HFD shown in FIG. 23 but with the cushion and base removed. [Diagram 25] 17 illustrates an exemplary schematic diagram of the HFD of FIG. 16 with a fluid control system. [Figure 26] 1 illustrates a perspective view of another exemplary HFD configured as a slidable non-invasive HFD. [Figure 27] FIG. 27 illustrates another perspective view of the HFD of FIG. 26. [Figure 28] FIG. 27 depicts a front view of the HFD of FIG. 26 shown assembled with a pump. [Figure 29] 27 illustrates a partially exploded perspective view of the HFD of FIG. 26. [Diagram 30] FIG. 27 depicts a partial perspective view of the HFD of FIG. 26, without the base assembly shown. [Diagram 31] FIG. 27 illustrates a partial perspective view of the extension bar of the HFD of FIG. 26 with a torque screw. [Diagram 32] FIG. 27 illustrates a partial perspective view of another extension bar of the HFD of FIG. 26 having a locking bolt. [Diagram 33] FIG. 27 illustrates a perspective view of a pad of the HFD of FIG. 26. [Diagram 34] 34 shows an exploded perspective view of the pad of FIG. 33. [Diagram 35] FIG. 27 depicts a cross-sectional view of the HFD of FIG. 26 shown assembled with a pump. [Diagram 36] FIG. 13 illustrates a front view of another exemplary HFD configured as a slidable non-invasive HFD with torque screws on each extension bar. [Figure 37] FIG. 13 illustrates a front view of another exemplary HFD configured as a slidable non-intrusive HFD with locking bolts on each extension bar. [Figure 38] 1 depicts a perspective view of another exemplary HFD configured as a non-invasive HFD having a multi-chamber pad. [Figure 39] FIG. 39 illustrates a rear perspective view of the cushion and pad used with the HFD of FIG. 38. [Diagram 40] FIG. 40 illustrates a cross-sectional view of the cushion and pad of FIG. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0005] The drawings are not intended to be limiting in any way, and it is anticipated that various embodiments of the invention may be embodied in a variety of other ways, including ways not necessarily depicted in the drawings. The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and form a part of the specification, illustrate several aspects of the invention and, together with the description, serve to explain the principles of the invention, although it is understood that the invention is not limited to the precise arrangements shown.

[0006] The following description of specific examples of the present invention should not be used to limit the scope of the present invention. Other examples, features, aspects, embodiments, and advantages of the invention will become apparent to those skilled in the art from the following description. As will be recognized, the present invention is capable of other different and obvious aspects, all without departing from the present invention. Thus, the drawings and description should be regarded as illustrative in nature, and not restrictive.

[0007] I. Exemplary Head Fixation Device with Arc Mechanism

[0008] During certain medical procedures, it may be necessary or desirable to stabilize a patient's head using an HFD. It may be desirable to position the patient in a manner that provides the best access for the medical team and their instruments. This may involve the patient being in a prone, supine, or neutral position, in which the patient's head is rotated left or right from a sagittal plane that defines the patient's left and right halves. When accommodating and accommodating other positions for stabilizing the patient's head, the adjustability of the HFD itself is a factor in safely stabilizing the patient such that movement or displacement of the patient's head is avoided. Now referring to the drawings, FIGS. 1-5 illustrate an exemplary HFD (100) configured for use in supporting and stabilizing a patient's head during a medical procedure. The HFD (100) comprises a central head support (110), an arc member (140), a skull clamp (170), and an actuator (190).

[0009] The central head support (110) comprises a body (112) and an attachment mechanism (114) on the body (112) in a starburst format configured to connect directly or indirectly to a surgical table or other structure via one or more intermediate structures. For example, in some examples, a base unit, such as a base unit available from pro med instruments GmbH, is attached to the surgical table and the attachment mechanism (114) connects with the base unit. In some examples, an adapter, such as a swivel adapter or other adapter available from pro med instruments GmbH, may connect with the base unit and the attachment mechanism (114) of the central head support (110) connects with the adapter. In view of the teachings herein, various manners of connecting the central head support (110) to a stable structure, such as a surgical table, will be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art.

[0010] The central head support (110) also includes a base (116) that connects to the body (112) and holds or maintains a cushion (118). The cushion (118) may connect to the base (116) by adhesive, mechanical fasteners such as screws or hooks and loops, or other manners apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art. In some versions, the cushion (118) is selectively connected to the base (116) so that the cushion (118) is disposable or can be removed for cleaning and sterilization after use. The cushion (118) is configured to contact the patient's head when the HFD (100) is used to support and stabilize the patient. In this embodiment of FIG. 7, the base (116) connects to the body (112) by a disk (120), which is connected to the base (116) using fasteners such as screws or bolts. The disk (120) is received within a slot (122) defined in the body (112). In some versions, the disk (120) is configured to be rotatable within the slot (122) such that the attached base (116) and cushion (118) can be rotatably adjusted.

[0011] In use, the central head support (110) is configured to provide horizontal support for the patient's head. As such, the central head support (110) defines a plane that extends below the patient's head when the patient's head is supported by the central head support. In this embodiment, the central head support (110) is positioned such that the plane defined by the central head support (110) is parallel to the floor or perpendicular to the direction of gravity on the central head support (110). Additionally, the central head support (110) defines a central axis (A1) that extends through the center of the cushion (118) and is parallel to the direction of gravity of the central head support (110).

[0012] The arc member (140) of the HFD (100) connects to the central head support (110). In this embodiment, the arc member (140) comprises a curved elongated member (142) and a connector (144) integrally formed with the curved elongated member (142). In some other versions, the connector (144) connects to the elongated member (142) by a removable fastener, such as a screw, bolt, or the like. Other manners of connecting the arc member (140) to the central head support (110) will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art in view of the teachings herein. The connector (144) connects the arc member (140) to the body (112) of the central head support (110), as described in more detail below.

[0013] The elongated member (142) of the arc member (140) defines a curved shape having an arc length. This configuration further enables the arc member (140) to be positioned such that the center of the patient's head when positioned on the cushion (118) is aligned with the center of the patient's head. point From the cross section of the elongated member (142) Center point Represents the distance along the central axis (A1) to curvature The arc length defines a radius of curvature of about 152 millimeters with an arc length of about 293 millimeters. Of course, those particular dimensions are not required in all versions and other suitable dimensions will be apparent to those of skill in the art in view of the teachings herein.

[0014] The curved elongated member (142) of the arc member (140) is configured with a trapezoidal shaped profile in this embodiment. The shape of the arc member (140) allows the arc member (140) to mate with a position adaptor (150) having a complementary shaped slot (152) configured to receive the arc member (140). In this embodiment, the slot (152) of the position adaptor (150) and the profile of the elongated member (142) of the arc member (140) form a curved dovetail shaped interface. Other complementary shapes for the slot (152) and the arc member (140) that may be used will be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art in view of the teachings herein.

[0015] The skull clamp (170) is connected to the arc member (140) such that it is selectively movable or adjustable along the arc member (140). In this embodiment, the skull clamp (170) indirectly connects to the arc member (140) via the position adapter (150), although in other versions, the HFD (100) may be modified such that the skull clamp (170) connects directly to the arc member (140). By moving or adjusting the skull clamp (170) along the arc member (140), the position of the skull clamp (170) is adjustable relative to the central head support (110). Furthermore, when the patient's head is supported by the central head support (110), in at least some embodiments, movement of the skull clamp (170) along the arc member (140) repositions the skull clamp (170) coaxially or substantially coaxially about the patient's head. In a similar vein, the patient defines a sagittal plane that divides the patient into left and right halves, and an axis extending longitudinally along the sagittal plane is considered the patient-defined longitudinal axis. Generally, this longitudinal axis extends from the patient's head to the patient's feet. In at least some embodiments, movement of the skull clamp (170) along the arc member (140) repositions the skull clamp (170) about this patient-defined longitudinal axis. As noted above, in some examples, the skull clamp (170) is adjustable in either direction relative to the central head support (110) and the patient's longitudinal axis up to about 45 degrees from the central axis (A1) defined by the central head support (110). In this manner, the HFD (100) allows for diagonal lateral positioning of the skull clamp (170) on either side of the patient's head supported by the central head support (110) up to about 45 degrees. In view of the teachings herein, one of ordinary skill in the art will recognize that the arc length of the arc member (140) may be extended such that greater than about 45 degrees of positional adjustment of the skull clamp (170) can be achieved.

[0016] The skull clamp (170) comprises a locking member (172) and a pair of extension bars (174). The locking member (172) comprises a pair of openings (176) configured to receive the extension bars (174). The extension bars (174) are movable relative to the locking member (172) and independently of each other. Additionally, the locking member (172) comprises a locking portion (178) configured to engage a respective extension bar (174) to either secure the extension bar (174) in a proper position or to allow adjustment of the extension bar (174). As such, each extension bar (174) comprises a toothed rack (180), each locking portion (178) comprises a complementary toothed portion present in the locking member (172), and the locking member (172) is movable to engage or disengage its associated toothed rack (180). For example, the locks (178) are initially biased by a spring or other structure such that the toothed portion engages the toothed rack (180), thereby locking or securing the position of the extension bar (174) relative to the locking member (172). Each lock (178) may be pulled downwardly or away from the locking member (172) to disengage the toothed portion of the lock (178) from the toothed rack (180), thereby allowing lateral movement of the extension bar (174) relative to the locking member (172) and the other extension bar (174).

[0017] In this embodiment, the extension bars (174) are interchangeable such that one can replace the other in terms of its position within the locking member (172). Each extension bar (174) further comprises an upper end portion (182) having a bore (184) configured to receive a stabilization assembly (186). The stabilization assembly (186) is configured to contact the patient's head and provide lateral support and stabilization to the patient's head. In this embodiment, the stabilization assembly (186) may take the form of a single pin or a dual pin assembly. Additionally, the stabilization assembly (186) may include a torque screw (141) for adjusting the pressure applied to the patient's head by the stabilization assembly (186). In other versions, the stabilization assembly (186) may take the form of a single chamber or a multi-chamber pad. Returning to this embodiment, each extension bar (174) comprises an upright portion (188) and a base (189) having the upright portion (188) defining a longitudinal axis. In this embodiment, each respective bore (184) is offset from a longitudinal axis defined by the upright portion (188) of each respective extension bar (174). Further, when the extension bars (174) are positioned within the locking member (172), the bores (184) are offset in opposite directions to align with and share a common axis (A2) extending through each bore (184). Additionally, each of the extension bars (174) defines a rail configured to receive one or more accessories positionable along at least a portion of the extension bar (174).

[0018] As described above, skull clamp (170) interfaces with arc member (140). In this embodiment, locking member (172) of skull clamp (170) interfaces with position adaptor (150), which in turn interfaces with arc member (140) as described above. The connection between position adaptor (150) and locking member (172) uses a dovetail in this embodiment. As such, position adaptor (150) includes slot (154) configured to receive protrusion (175) of locking member (172). In this embodiment, the protrusion has a trapezoidal shaped profile and slot (154) has a complementary profile shape such that protrusion (175) can be received within slot (154).

[0019] The connection between the position adaptor (150) and the locking member (172) is selectively adjustable. More specifically, the locking member (172) can be adjusted vertically or longitudinally relative to the position adaptor (150). This adjustment allows the distance between the stabilization assembly (186) of the skull clamp (170) and the central head support (110) to be adjusted. For example, depending on the patient's orientation, the patient's head size, or other parameters, the skull clamp (170) and its associated stabilization assembly (186) may need to be moved closer or farther from the central head support (110).

[0020] In a further aspect describing the adjustment between position adaptor 150 and locking member 172, side wall 158 of position adaptor 150 defines a plane and locking member 172 is adjustable in a translational manner along said plane. This movement or adjustment of locking member 172 relative to position adaptor 150 changes the spacing of locking member 172 and its connected components relative to central head support 110 as described above.

[0021] The actuator (190) of the HFD (100) is configured to selectively secure the position of the skull clamp (170) along the arc member (140). The actuator (190) is also configured to selectively secure the position of the skull clamp (170) relative to the central head support (110) by selectively securing the position of the skull clamp (170) relative to the position adapter (150). In this embodiment, this dual securing mechanism of the HFD (100) provides for selectively securing both the position of the skull clamp (170) along the arc member (140) and the position of the skull clamp (170) relative to the central head support (110) substantially simultaneously.

[0022] 6, the actuator (190) includes a threaded rod (192) connected to a knob (194). The locking member (172) includes a threaded bore (173) configured to receive the threaded rod (192) of the actuator (190). The threaded bore (173) extends broadly through the locking member (172) from one side to the other. In this embodiment, the threaded bore (173) extends through a protrusion (175). The actuator (190) further includes a compression plate (196) positionable within a cutout (156) in a sidewall (158) of the position adaptor (150). On one side, the sidewall (158) that includes the cutout (156) defines a portion of a slot (154) that receives the protrusion (175) of the locking member (172). On the opposite side, a sidewall (158) containing a cutout (156) defines a portion of a slot (152) that receives the arc member (140). In this manner, the cutout (156) connects the slots (152, 154) of the position adapter (150).

[0023] In use, rotating knob (194) of actuator (190) translates locking member (172) toward or away from position adaptor (150) depending on the direction knob (194) is rotated based on the threaded engagement between threaded rod (192) and threaded bore (173). By translating locking member (172) away from position adaptor (150), the end of threaded rod (192) contacts compression plate (196) residing in cutout (156) and drives compression plate (196) toward arc member (140) residing in slot (152) of position adaptor (150). The compression plate (196) is fitted against or sized to mate with the cutout (156) such that sufficient rotation of the actuator (190) causes the compression plate (196) to bind against the arc member (140) and secure the position adapter (150) relative to the arc member (140).

[0024] In this same manner, movement of the protrusions (175) of the locking member (172) away from the position adaptor (150) causes the protrusions (175) to bind against the sidewalls of the slots (154) to secure the locking member (172) relative to the position adaptor (150). This locking and unlocking arrangement allows the skull clamp (170) to be adjusted relative to the arc members (140) and relative to the central head support (110) with minimal rotation of the knob (194) of the actuator (190). For example, by way of example only and not by way of limitation, in one version, the HFD (100) can be moved from an adjustable state to a fixed state with as little as a quarter turn of the knob (194) of the actuator (190). Of course, in other versions, the HFD (100) may be configured such that greater or smaller rotations of the actuator (190) can be used to move the HFD (100) from an adjustable state to a fixed state.

[0025] 7 and 8, the central head support (110) is configured to adjust the spacing between the central head support (110) and the arc member (140). As described above, the arc member (140) includes a connector (144). The connector (144) adjustably connects with the body (112) of the central head support (110). As illustrated, the body (112) includes a slot (124). In this embodiment, the slot (124) is positioned directly below the slot (122) that receives the disk (120). The slot (124) receives a portion of the connector (144). As shown, the connector (144) includes an upper beam portion (146) configured to be received within the slot (124). The profile of the beam portion (146) has a complementary shape to the slot (124). In this embodiment, the beam portion (146) and the slot (124) together form a dovetail interface. In this manner, the connector (144) is translatable along the slot (124), which adjusts the spacing between the arc members (140) and the central head support (110).

[0026] To control the adjustability of the connector (144) within the slot (124), the central head support (110) includes an actuator (148) that includes a locking mechanism (149) that contacts the beam portion (146) to either secure its position relative to the body (112) via compressive engagement or to allow slidable adjustment of the connector (144) relative to the body (112) by releasing the locking mechanism (149) from contact with the beam portion (146) at least sufficiently to allow translational movement of the connector (144). To control the contact of the locking mechanism (149) with the beam portion (146), the actuator (148) includes a rotating lever (147). Rotation of the lever (147) moves the locking mechanism (149) toward or away from the beam portion (146) depending on the direction that the lever (147) is rotated. The actuator (148) includes a threaded rod (145) that extends through a threaded bore (126) in the body (112) of the central head support (110). A lever (147) includes a bore (143) that is connected to the threaded rod (145) in a fixed manner such that the lever (147) and the threaded rod (145) rotate in unison. Rotating the lever (147) rotates the threaded rod (145), which translates the threaded rod (145) toward or away from the beam portion (146) based on the direction of rotation. Translational movement of threaded rod (145) towards beam portion (146) drives locking mechanism (149) into contact with beam portion (146) of connector (144), thereby securing the position of connector (144) relative to central head support (110), and thus the position of arc member (140). Similarly, translational movement of threaded rod (145) away from beam portion (146) disengages beam portion (146) of connector (144) and locking mechanism (149), thereby securing the position of connector (144) relative to central head support (110), and thus the position of arc member (140).In the configuration described above, the connectors (144) are adjustable along or parallel to a plane defined by the central head support (110) to change the position of the arc members (140) relative to the central head support (110).

[0027] II. Exemplary Head Immobilization Devices Having Unidirectional Arcs

[0028] Due to certain medical procedures involving stabilization of the patient's head, particularly those procedures where imaging is used throughout the procedure, it may be desirable to use an HFD with a space-saving design. This may be based on the small space available in some imaging instruments and / or it may be based on reducing the amount of material that may contribute to artifacts in the imaging output. With reference to Figures 9 and 10, another exemplary HFD (200) is shown that is similar in many respects to the HFD (100), but uses shorter arc members, thereby reducing the overall size and mass of the HFD (200). The features of the HFD (200) are identical to those described above with respect to the HFD (100), except as described below. Thus, for the sake of brevity, the features of the HFD (100) described above apply equally to the HFD (200), except for the differences described below.

[0029] The HFD (200) comprises the central head support (110), the skull clamp (170), and the actuator (190) as described above. However, with the HFD (200), an arc member (240) replaces the arc member (140) described above. The arc member (240) is configured as a unidirectional arc member. In other words, with the HFD (200), the arc member (240) extends outward in one direction from beneath the central head support (110) along an arcuate path. In this manner, the connection between the central head support (110) and the arc member (240) causes the central head support (110) to connect with one end of the arc member (240) and keep the arc member (240) extending away from the central head support (110) in a single direction.

[0030] In a more specific aspect, the arc member (240) comprises a curved elongate member (242) and a connector (244). In this embodiment, the curved elongate member (242) comprises a first end (241A) and a second end (241B). Adjacent to each of the first end (214A) and the second end (241B) is a pair of attachment sections (230) with a pair of threaded bores (233) in each of the attachment sections (230). The connector (244) also comprises a pair of threaded bores (234) and extends through the pair of threaded bores (234) in the curved elongate member (242) and comprises a pair of fasteners (236) configured to be received by one of the pair of threaded bores (233). In this manner, the connector (244) is configured to be attached to the elongate member (242) at any one of the attachment sections (230). As explained above with respect to connector (144), connector (244) connects with central head support (110) in the same manner as connector (144) does.

[0031] In some examples, the arc member (240) can be described as a half-arc instead of or in addition to a unidirectional arc. With this configuration, the curved elongate member (242) of the arc member (240) defines an arc length and a radius of curvature. As discussed above, the radius of curvature represents the distance along the central axis (A1) from the center point of the patient's head when positioned on the cushion (118) to a point in the middle of the cross section of the elongate member (242). In this embodiment, the arc length is sufficient to allow the skull clamp (170) to be positioned in one direction along the arc member (240) up to about a 45 degree offset from the central axis (A1) defined by the central head support (110). By way of example only and not of limitation, in some embodiments, the arc member (240) can have an arc length of about 120 to about 200 millimeters and can define a radius of curvature of about 120 to about 200 millimeters. For example, in one embodiment, the arc member (240) defines a radius of curvature of approximately 152 millimeters with an arc length of approximately 170 millimeters. Of course, those specific dimensions are not required in all versions, and other suitable dimensions will be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art in view of the teachings herein.

[0032] The curved elongated member (242) of the arc member (240) is configured with a trapezoidal shaped profile in this embodiment. This shape of the arc member (240) allows the arc member (240) to mate with the position adaptor (150), which has a complementary shaped slot (152) configured to receive the arc member (240). In this embodiment, the slot (152) of the position adaptor (150) and the profile of the elongated member (242) of the arc member (240) form a curved dovetail shaped interface. Other complementary shapes for the slot (152) and the arc member (240) profile that may be used will be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art in view of the teachings herein.

[0033] When using the HFD (200), due to the unidirectional nature of the arc member (240), the patient's orientation is first determined. For example, the patient's head rotates to one side or the other relative to the patient's sagittal plane. Based on the direction of the patient's head rotation when supported by the central head support (110), the connector (244) of the arc member (240) is attached to the curved elongated member (242) at either the attachment area (230) near the first end (241A) or the attachment area (230) near the second end (241B). In one embodiment, when the patient's head rotates in a first direction relative to the patient's sagittal plane, the desired configuration for the arc member (240) causes the curved elongated member (242) to extend opposite the first direction. In this manner, the curved elongated member (242) extends away from the patient's sagittal plane such that the curved elongated member (242) extends behind the patient's head. By way of illustrative example only, and not by way of limitation, Figure 11 shows an HFD (200) used to stabilize a patient whose head is rotating in a first direction relative to the patient's sagittal plane. The arc member (240) is configured such that the connector (244) is attached to the attachment section (230) at the second end (241B) of the curved elongate member (242). In this manner, the curved elongate member (242) extends opposite the first direction and away from the patient's sagittal plane such that the curved elongate member (242) extends behind the patient's head.

[0034] As explained above, the skull clamp (170) connects to the arc member (240) in the same manner that the skull clamp (170) connects to the arc member (140). The HFD (200) allows the skull clamp (170) to be adjusted in one direction relative to the central head support (110) and the longitudinal axis of the patient up to about 45 degrees from the central axis (A1) defined by the central head support (110). In this manner, the HFD (200) allows for diagonal lateral positioning of the skull clamp (170) on one side of the patient's head supported by the central head support (110) up to about 45 degrees.

[0035] Additionally, because the connector (244) can be connected to either end of the curved elongate member (242) of the arc member (240), the HFD (200) can be configured such that the arc member (240) extends away from the central head support (110) in either direction depending on the selected attachment location of the connector (244) with the curved elongate member (242). As a result, the HFD (200) having a half-arc or unidirectional arc member (240) can be configured for use by a patient who may be positioned with their head supported by the central head support (110) and rotated in either direction relative to the patient's sagittal plane. Stated differently, the HFD (200) allows the arc member (240) to be considered as connectable with the central head support (110) in a selected one of a first orientation and a second orientation. In the second orientation, the arc member (240) extends outwardly from beneath the central head support (110) in a first direction, which is opposite to a second direction in which the arc member (240) extends outwardly from beneath the central head support (110) when the arc member (240) is in the first orientation.

[0036] In some other versions of the HFD (200) having a unidirectional arc or half-arc, the HFD (200) may be modified such that the connection between the skull clamp and the arc member is configured to allow the skull clamp to be attached to the arc member from either side of the skull clamp. In this manner, the attachment of the arc member and the skull clamp is considered to be symmetric. Other manners of connecting the skull clamp and the unidirectional arc member will be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art in view of the teachings herein.

[0037] III. EXEMPLARY HEAD IMPROVEMENT DEVICE WITH PRESSURE-CONTROLLED PIVOTING CUSHION

[0038] To provide the HFD with sufficient adjustability to accommodate various patient positioning, another desirable feature may be to incorporate selective pivot adjustment into the cushion of the HFD. Other features that may be incorporated into the cushion relate to managing or controlling the contact pressure between the cushion and the patient. FIG. 12 depicts another HFD (300) that is similar in many respects to the HFD (100) but incorporates features oriented toward a pivoting cushion and also incorporates features that assist in controlling the contact pressure. The features of the HFD (300) are identical to those described above with respect to the HFD (100), except as described below. Thus, for the sake of brevity, the features of the HFD (100) described above apply equally to the HFD (300), except as described below.

[0039] The HFD (300) comprises the arc members (140), the skull clamp (170), and the actuator (190) as described above. However, with the HFD (300), a central head support (310) replaces the central head support (110) described above. With reference to Figures 12 and 13, the central head support (310) comprises a body (312) and an attachment mechanism (314) on the body (312), the attachment mechanism (314) being in a starburst format configured to connect to a surgical table or other structure, directly or indirectly, via one or more intermediate structures. For example, in some instances, a base unit, such as a base unit available from pro med instruments GmbH, is attached to the surgical table, and the attachment mechanism (314) connects with the base unit. In some examples, an adapter, such as a swivel adapter or other adapters available from pro med instruments GmbH, may connect to the base unit, and the attachment mechanism (314) of the central head support (310) connects to the adapter. In view of the teachings herein, various manners of connecting the central head support (310) to a stable structure, such as a surgical table, will be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art.

[0040] The central head support (310) also includes a base (316) that connects to the body (312) and holds or maintains a cushion (318). The cushion (318) may connect to the base (316) by adhesive, screws, or mechanical fasteners such as hook and loop, or other manners apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art. In some versions, the cushion (318) is selectively connected to the base (316) so that the cushion (318) is disposable or can be removed for cleaning and sterilization after use. The cushion (318) is configured to contact the patient's head when the HFD (300) is used to support and stabilize the patient. In this embodiment, the base (316) connects to the body (312) by a pair of arms (320) that extend outwardly and upwardly from the body (312). The base (316) includes a connecting member (322) that defines an axis that extends transversely across the base (316). The connecting member (322) includes a pair of bores (323), each bore (323) of the pair aligning with a respective bore (321) in each of the arms (320). An axis defined by the connecting member (322) extends along the bores (323) of the connecting member (322) such that the axis defines a pivot axis about which the base (316) and connected cushion (318) can pivot. A pair of fasteners (325) extend through the bores (321) of the arms (320) and engage the bores (323) of the connecting member (322) to pivotally connect the base (316) to the body (312) of the central head support (310). The fasteners (325) may be tightened to secure the position of the base (316) and connected cushion (318), and conversely, the fasteners (325) may be loosened to allow pivotable adjustment of the base (316) and connected cushion (318).

[0041] In use, the central head support (310) is configured to provide horizontal support for the patient's head. As such, the central head support (310) defines a plane that extends downwardly relative to the patient's head when the patient's head is supported by the central head support. In this embodiment, the central head support (310) is positioned such that the plane defined by the central head support (310) can be adjusted based on the pivoting movement of the base (316) and the connected cushion (318). Thus, the plane defined by the central head support (310) is not limited to being parallel to the floor or perpendicular to the direction of gravity on the central head support (310). With reference to Figures 12 and 15, an HFD (300) is shown having a base (316) that pivots in two different orientations to accommodate different positions of the patient's head, i.e., the Concorde position as shown in Figure 12 and the supine position as shown in Figure 15.

[0042] 13, the central head support (310) is configured to adjust the spacing between the central head support (310) and the arc member (140). As described above, the arc member (140) includes a connector (144). The connector (144) adjustably connects with the body (312) of the central head support (310). As illustrated, there is a slot (324) within the body (312). The slot (324) receives a portion of the connector (144). As shown, the connector (144) includes an upper beam portion (146) configured to be received within the slot (324). The profile of the beam portion (146) has a complementary shape to the slot (324). In this embodiment, the beam portion (146) and the slot (324) together form a dovetail interface. In this manner, the connector (144) is translatable along the slot (324), which adjusts the spacing between the arc member (140) and the central head support (310). To control the adjustability of the connector (144) within the slot (324), the central head support (310) includes an actuator (148) and a locking mechanism (149) as described above with respect to the HFD (100). With the HFD (300), the actuator (148) and the locking mechanism (149) are configured and operable in the same manner as described above with respect to the HFD (100). In this configuration, the connector (144) is adjustable along or parallel to a plane defined by the central head support (310) to change the position of the arc member (140) relative to the central head support (310).

[0043] With reference to FIG. 14, the cushion (318) of the HFD (300) comprises a first chamber (319) having an interior space (317) configured to be filled with a fluid. The fluid may be a gas or a liquid. The first chamber (319) includes a port (301) configured to provide access to the interior space (317). The fluid may be directed to the interior space (317) within the first chamber (319) or may be extracted or evacuated from the interior space (317) of the first chamber (319). When evacuating the fluid from the first chamber (319), all or a portion of the fluid may be released or evacuated from the interior space (317).

[0044] The cushion (318) further comprises a second chamber (1319), which is configured to be filled with a conforming material. In this embodiment, the first chamber (319) is positioned downwardly relative to the second chamber (1319). Furthermore, the second chamber (1319) is configured to contact the patient's head. In view of the teachings herein, it will be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art that the relative positions of the first and second chambers (319, 1319) may be switched in other versions. In one version, the conforming material is any one of a gel, foam, or particulate material. In view of the teachings herein, it will be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art that other conforming materials may be used with the cushion (318).

[0045] With the configuration of the cushion (318) described above, the cushion (318) is configured to provide an even distribution of contact pressure with the patient's head when the head is supported by the central head support (310). Moreover, the contact pressure can be increased by filling the first chamber (319) with fluid via the port (301). Conversely, the contact pressure can be decreased by draining fluid from the first chamber (319) as described above. By lowering the contact pressure, blood flow can be restored to areas of the patient's head that were in contact with the cushion (318). In some instances, although not required in all versions, substantial drainage of fluid from the first chamber (319) causes the cushion (318) to contract or shrink at a height such that the cushion (318) is not in contact with the patient's head. As above, by lowering the contact pressure to an extent that there is insufficient contact between the cushion (318) and the patient, blood flow can be restored to areas of the patient's head that were in contact with the cushion (318). By reducing the contact pressure and providing restoration of blood flow, tissue trauma or damage can be avoided and the risk reduced. Additionally, stabilization can be maintained by the stabilization assembly (186) when reducing the contact pressure between the cushion (318) and the patient's head so as not to sacrifice patient stabilization when restoring blood flow to the tissue region. In some instances, once sufficient time has elapsed to restore blood flow to the tissue region in contact with the cushion (318), the contact pressure can be increased again by filling the first chamber (319) with fluid to extend or provide or restore a higher degree of stabilization.

[0046] IV. EXEMPLARY NON-INVASIVE HEAD IMPROVEMENT DEVICE WITH MULTI-CHAMBER CUSHION

[0047] In some instances, a non-invasive HFD configuration may be desirable where the stabilization assembly has a form of pads instead of pins, where the pads provide lateral stabilization. Additionally, the pads may be configured with specific contact pressure control mechanisms to help promote blood flow to specific tissue areas to avoid or reduce the risk of tissue damage or trauma. Referring to FIG. 16, an exemplary HFD (400) is shown that is similar in many respects to the HFD (100), but incorporates pads (430) to the stabilization assembly (186) to provide non-invasive stabilization. The HFD (400) also includes a pivoting cushion (418) that is similar in some respects to the cushion (318) as described with respect to the HFD (300). The HFD (400) further includes mechanisms that help control pressure in the lateral stabilization contact areas where the pads (430) contact the patient's head, and in the inferior stabilization contact areas where the cushion (418) contacts the patient's head. The mechanics of the HFD (400) are identical to those described above with respect to the HFD (100), except as described below, and therefore, for the sake of brevity, the mechanics of the HFD (100) described above apply equally to the HFD (400), except as described below.

[0048] The HFD (400) comprises the arc members (140), the skull clamp (170), and the actuator (190) as described above. The HFD (400) also comprises a central head support (410) similar to the central head support (310) as described above with respect to the HFD (300), but the central head support (410) includes a cushion (418) instead of the cushion (318) described above. With reference to FIG. 16, the central head support (410) comprises a body (412) and an attachment mechanism (414) on the body (412), the attachment mechanism (414) being in the form of a starburst configured to connect to a surgical table or other structure, directly or indirectly, via one or more intermediate structures. For example, in some instances, a base unit, such as a base unit available from pro med instruments GmbH, is attached to the surgical table, and the attachment mechanism (414) connects with the base unit. In some examples, an adapter, such as a swivel adapter or other adapters available from pro med instruments GmbH, may connect to the base unit, and the attachment mechanism (414) of the central head support (410) connects to the adapter. In view of the teachings herein, various manners of connecting the central head support (410) to a stable structure, such as a surgical table, will be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art.

[0049] The central head support (410) also includes a base (416) that connects to the body (412) and holds or maintains a cushion (418). The cushion (318) may connect to the base (416) by adhesives, mechanical fasteners such as screws or hook and loop, or other manners apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art. In some versions, the cushion (418) is selectively connected to the base (416) so that the cushion (418) is disposable or can be removed for cleaning and sterilization after use. The cushion (418) is configured to contact the patient's head when the HFD (400) is used to support and stabilize the patient. In this embodiment, the base (416) connects to the body (412) by a pair of arms (420) that extend outwardly and upwardly from the body (412). The base (416) includes a connecting member (422) that defines an axis that extends transversely across the base (416). The connecting member (422) includes a pair of bores (423) on each side, with each bore (423) of the pair aligning with a respective bore (321) in each of the arms (420). An axis defined by the connecting member (422) extends along the bores (423) of the connecting member (422) such that the axis defines a pivot axis about which the base (416) and connected cushion (418) can pivot. A pair of fasteners (425) extend through the bores (421) of the arms (420) and engage the bores (423) of the connecting member (422) to pivotally connect the base (416) to the body (412) of the central head support (410). The fasteners (425) may be tightened to secure the position of the base (416) and connected cushion (418), and conversely, the fasteners (425) may be loosened to allow pivotable adjustment of the base (416) and connected cushion (418).

[0050] In use, the central head support (410) is configured to provide horizontal support for the patient's head. As such, the central head support (410) defines a plane that extends downwardly relative to the patient's head when the patient's head is supported by the central head support. In this embodiment, the central head support (410) is positioned such that the plane defined by the central head support (410) can be adjusted based on pivoting movement of the base (416) and connected cushion (418). Thus, the plane defined by the central head support (410) is not limited to being parallel to the floor or perpendicular to the direction of gravity on the central head support (410).

[0051] With reference to FIG. 16, the central head support (410) is configured to adjust the spacing between the central head support (410) and the arc member (140). As described above, the arc member (140) includes a connector (144). The connector (144) adjustably connects with the body (412) of the central head support (410). As illustrated, there is a slot (424) within the body (412). The slot (424) receives a portion of the connector (144). As shown, the connector (144) includes an upper beam portion (146) configured to be received within the slot (424). The profile of the beam portion (146) has a complementary shape to the slot (424). In this embodiment, the beam portion (146) and the slot (424) together form a dovetail interface. In this manner, the connector (144) is translatable along the slot (424), which adjusts the spacing between the arc member (140) and the central head support (410). To control the adjustability of the connector (144) within the slot (424), the central head support (410) includes an actuator (148) and a locking mechanism (149) as described above with respect to the HFD (100). With the HFD (400), the actuator (148) and the locking mechanism (149) are configured and operable in the same manner as described above with respect to the HFD (100). In this configuration, the connector (144) is adjustable along or parallel to a plane defined by the central head support (410) to change the position of the arc member (140) relative to the central head support (410).

[0052] 16-19, the HFD (400) comprises a pad (430) as described above. The pad (430) comprises a housing (431), a first chamber (432), and a second chamber (433). A bore or cutout (434) extends through the housing (431), the first chamber (432), and the second chamber (433). The bore (434) is positioned such that it is configured to receive the patient's ear during stabilization to protect the patient's ear from excessive compression and pressure, and instead direct such pressure and compression forces against the patient's skull. Also positioned on the housing (431) is an annular flange (435) that defines a slot (436) configured to connect with the remainder of the stabilization assembly (186). In this embodiment, the stabilization assembly includes a collar (437) having a flange (438) that fits within the slot (436). With this configuration, pad (430) can be adjusted about an axis defined by and extending through bore (184) as shown above in FIG.

[0053] The first chamber (432) of the pad (430) defines an interior space (317) configured to be filled with a fluid, which may be a gas or a liquid, or a combination thereof. Also, there is a port (440) that connects with the first chamber (432) and that can be opened and closed to provide access to the interior space (439) of the first chamber (432). Thus, fluid can be delivered to the interior space (439) of the first chamber (432) or can be drained or extracted from the interior space (439) of the first chamber (432) by the port (440).

[0054] 18 and 20, when pads (430) are used with their respective stabilization assemblies (186), in some versions ports (440) are connected by a tube, hose, or conduit (441). The tube (441) may be connected to a valve (457) and may further be connected to a fluid reservoir (459) as described further below. In this configuration, by connecting the first chambers (432) of multiple pads (430), the pressure in the first chambers (432) is the same, and the pressure changes in the same manner as the first chambers (432) can be filled with more fluid to increase the pressure, or fluid can be drained from the first chambers (432) to decrease the pressure.

[0055] As shown in the illustrated version, the first chamber (432) is located between the housing (431) and the second chamber (433). Of course, in other versions, it will be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art that the positions of the first chamber (432) and the second chamber (433) may be switched in view of the teachings herein. The second chamber (433) of the pad (430) is configured to be filled with a conformable material as described above with respect to the cushion (318). In this embodiment, the second chamber (433) is positioned adjacent to and in contact with the patient's head. In one version, the conformable material in the second chamber (433) is any one of a gel, a foam, a particulate material, or a combination of such materials. In view of the teachings herein, it will be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art that other conformable materials may be used with the second chamber (433) of the pad (430).

[0056] With the configuration of the pad (430) described above, the pad (430) is configured to provide an even distribution of contact pressure with the patient's head when the head is supported by the stabilization assembly (186) having the pad (430). Moreover, the contact pressure can be increased by filling the first chamber (432) with fluid through the port (440) or through a tube (441) connected to the port (440) as shown in FIG. 20, which represents a fluid control system (444). Conversely, the contact pressure can be decreased by draining fluid from the first chamber (432) as described above. By decreasing the contact pressure, blood flow can be restored to the area of ​​the patient's head in contact with the pad (430). In some instances, although not required in all versions, substantial drainage of fluid from the first chamber (432) may cause the pad (430) to shrink or contract in size such that the pad (430) does not apply sufficient contact pressure to the patient's head for stabilization. In at least some examples, the contact pressure sufficient to provide stabilization can be referred to as the stabilization pressure. By lowering the contact pressure between the pad (430) and the patient to an extent where the stabilization pressure is not sufficient, blood flow can be restored to this area of ​​the patient's head that was previously in contact with the pad (430) and under the stabilization pressure. By lowering the contact pressure and providing restoration of blood flow, tissue trauma or damage can be avoided and the risk reduced. In addition, support of the patient's head can be maintained by the cushion (418) of the central head support (410) when lowering the contact pressure between the pad (430) and the patient's head so as not to sacrifice support of the patient when restoring blood flow to the area of ​​tissue. In some examples, once sufficient time has elapsed to restore blood flow to the tissue area in contact with the pad (430), the contact pressure can be increased again by filling the first chamber (432) with fluid to expand or provide or restore a higher degree of stabilization.

[0057] In some versions of the HFD (400), both laterally positioned pads (430) are connected via tube (441) such that the pads (430) are maintained at the same pressure within each of the pads (430) at all times. In some other versions, connecting both laterally positioned pads (430) with tube (441) is not required, so that each of the pads (430) can be controlled independently of the others in terms of its pressure. Furthermore, various valve arrangements may be incorporated with tube (441) such that the pads (430) can be configured to be independently controlled even when connected via tube (441). Other manners of configuring and controlling the pressure within the pads (430) will be apparent to those of skill in the art in view of the teachings herein. By way of example only and not by way of limitation, the pressure requirements within pad (430) may differ with patient position as skull clamp (170) rotates around the patient's head by sliding skull clamp (170) along arc member (140) as described above.

[0058] 16 and 17, in some versions of the HFD (400), the pressure that the pads (430) apply to the patient's head is adjustable using a torque screw (443). The torque screw (443) is one component of the stabilization assembly (186). Tightening the torque screw (443) increases the pressure applied by the pads (430) to the patient's head. In the illustrated version, a single torque screw (443) is on one side of the HFD (400) and the two pads (430) are connected by a tube (441) such that activation of the torque screw (443) changes the pressure in both pads (430). In some other versions, multiple torque screws (443) may be used, one associated with each of the pads (430) such that the pads (430) do not have to be connected by a tube (441). In some versions using the HFD (400), initial stabilization can be achieved using a torque screw (443). After the torque screw (443) is initially set, subsequent pressure adjustments can be made by adjusting the amount of fluid in the first chamber (432) of the pads (430), for example, by directing more fluid to the first chamber (432) to increase pressure, or by draining fluid from the first chamber (432) to decrease pressure. In other words, in some versions, whether or not the torque screw (443) is included, the contact pressure provided by each of the pads (430) can be controlled or adjusted separately and independently of the torque screw (443). In some versions, the torque screw (443) can be omitted entirely and replaced with a conventional cranial pin assembly. In view of the teachings herein, other schemes using either the torque screw (443) as shown in FIG. 20, the fluid control system (444), or a combination of both, will be apparent to those skilled in the art.

[0059] 18 and 19, the HFD (400) comprises a cushion (418) that connects with the base (416) of the central head support (410) as described above. The cushion (418) of the HFD (400) comprises a multi-chamber structure having a first chamber (445) with an interior space (446) configured to be filled with a fluid. The fluid may be a gas or a liquid. The first chamber (445) includes a port (447) configured to provide access to the interior space (446). The fluid may be directed to the interior space (446) within the first chamber (445) or may be extracted or expelled from the interior space (446) of the first chamber (445). When expelling the fluid from the first chamber (445), all or a portion of the fluid may be released or expelled from the interior space (446). The cushion (418) further comprises a second chamber (448) having an interior space (449) configured to be filled with a fluid, or the fluid may be extracted or evacuated from the interior space (449) of the second chamber (448). When evacuating the fluid from the second chamber (448), all or a portion of the fluid may be released or evacuated from the interior space (449). In this embodiment, the interior space (446) of the first chamber (445) and the interior space (449) of the second chamber (448) are fluidly connected by a connecting tube (450) extending between the interior spaces (446, 449) of the first and second chambers (445, 448).

[0060] The cushion (418) further comprises a third chamber (451) positioned between the first and second chambers (445, 448). In this configuration, the first and second chambers (445, 448) collectively define a pair of outer chambers, and the third chamber (451) defines a middle chamber. The third chamber (451) also comprises an interior space (452), and the connecting tube (450) extends through the interior space (452) of the third chamber (451). The interior space (452) of the third chamber is configured to be filled with a fluid, similar to the first and second chambers (445, 448). Fluid may be added to or removed from the interior space (452), which may change the pressure within this region of the cushion (418). The third chamber (451) includes a port (453) similar to the first chamber (445). The port (453) provides access to the interior space (452) and is used to direct fluid into or evacuate fluid from the interior space (452).

[0061] The cushion (418) further comprises a fourth chamber (454), a fifth chamber (455), and a sixth chamber (456), each configured to be filled with a form-conforming material. The first chamber (445) is positioned downwardly relative to the fourth chamber (454), which is configured to contact the patient's head. The second chamber (448) is positioned downwardly relative to the fifth chamber (455), which is configured to contact the patient's head. The third chamber (451) is positioned downwardly relative to the sixth chamber (456), which is configured to contact the patient's head. In view of the teachings herein, it will be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art that the relative positions of the first and fourth chambers (445, 454), the second and fifth chambers (448, 455), and the third and sixth chambers (451, 456) may be switched in other versions. In one version, the conforming material in the fourth, fifth, and sixth chambers (454, 455, 456) is any one of a gel, foam, particulate material, or combinations thereof. In view of the teachings herein, it will be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art that other conforming materials may be used with the cushion (418).

[0062] With the configuration of the cushion (418) described above, the cushion (418) is configured to provide various pressure profiles depending on the manner of adjustment by each of the fluids and the respective interior spaces (446, 449, 452). For example, in some versions, a uniform distribution of contact pressure can be achieved where the third chamber (451) is configured to hold the same amount of fluid per unit of volume in the interior space (452) as there are in the interior spaces (446, 449) of the first and second chambers (445, 448). In yet other versions, the outer chambers may have matching pressures and the middle chambers have pressures that may be higher or lower than the pressure in the outer chambers. Furthermore, with this configuration with different pressures between the outer and middle chambers, fluid may be removed and / or added in a controlled manner that provides a manner of maintaining a good blood flow to areas of the patient's tissue in contact with portions of the cushion (418) and ensuring stabilization of the patient's head.

[0063] By way of example only and not by way of limitation, in one version, the patient is initially stabilized using the HFD (400) having a pad (430) that applies the same contact pressure to the side portions of the patient's head. During initial stabilization, the cushion (418) is configured to apply the same contact pressure to the outer and middle chambers as well as to the dorsal portion of the patient's head. In this embodiment, the HFD (400) is used with the patient in a supine position, although this is not necessary in all embodiments as the HFD (400) can be used with the patient in other positions. After some time has passed, the pressure within the pad (430) and / or cushion (418) can be manipulated such that blood flow to areas of the patient's head tissue in contact with portions of the HFD (400) can be restored or increased. Moreover, this manipulation of pressure comprises a short-term relief or reduction in pressure to promote increased blood flow to the tissue, followed by an increase in pressure after a period of time to effect extended stabilization. Moreover, this manipulation of pressure can be performed in an alternating manner between the pads 430 and / or chambers of the cushion 418. By using this alternating manner, the tissue area in contact with the HFD 400 is treated to restored or increased blood flow and maintains an acceptable degree of stabilization.

[0064] An embodiment of the alternating pressure relief and restoration sequence may include, as a first step, reducing the pressure on the pad (430) after an initial stabilization has been achieved, to allow an amount of time for blood flow to be restored to the lateral portions of the patient's head. Note that in some such embodiments, the pressure on the pad (430) may not be reduced at all, and the pressure relief sequence may be limited to the multi-chamber cushion (418). Also, in other embodiments, the first step may be to perform a pressure relief step or steps on the multi-chamber cushion (418) and then a pressure relief step on one or both of the pads (430). However, in this embodiment, after some time during which the pressure on the pad (430) has been reduced and blood flow to the patient's tissue areas in contact with the pad (430) has increased, the pressure on the pad (430) is then restored to its initial level.

[0065] The intermediate chamber defined by the third chamber (451) is then vented to reduce its pressure. This action reduces the force or pressure applied to the patient's head at the intermediate chamber, thus allowing increased blood flow to the dorsal area of ​​the patient's head in contact with the intermediate chamber. In this case, the outer chambers defined collectively by the first and second chambers (445, 448) remain at their original or initial pressure or experience a higher pressure based on the increase in force in those areas from the patient's head due to the vented intermediate chamber. Thus, the outer chamber and pad (430) provide stabilization to the patient's head and the tissue area in contact with the intermediate chamber undergoes a period of increased or restored blood flow to prevent or reduce the risk of tissue trauma in this area.

[0066] For simplicity's sake, the middle chamber of the cushion (418) comprises both a third chamber (451) configured to contain a fluid as well as a sixth chamber (456) configured from a conformable material. Similarly, of the pair of outer chambers, one of the outer chambers comprises a first chamber (445) configured to contain a fluid as well as a fourth chamber (454) configured from a conformable material, and the other of the outer chambers comprises a second chamber (448) configured to contain a fluid as well as a fifth chamber (455) configured from a conformable material. As will be understood in light of the teachings herein, the above discussed pressure relief in the outer and middle chambers occurs by changing the fluid volume in the respective interior spaces (446, 449, 452) of the first, second and third chambers (445, 448, 451), and the increase in blood flow based on the pressure relief occurs in tissue areas in contact with the respective fourth, fifth and sixth chambers (454, 455, 456) having conformal materials. In other configurations for the HFD (400) and other HFDs, the fluid-filled chambers may be the chambers in contact with the patient's head, and the conformal containing chambers may be located directly below or beneath the respective fluid-filled chambers. In light of the teachings herein, other configurations for the chambers of the HFD (400) and other HFDs will be apparent to those skilled in the art.

[0067] Returning again to the above example of the pressure relief sequence, after some time during which the pressure in the middle chamber of the cushion (418) has decreased and blood flow to the patient's tissue areas in contact with the middle chambers, particularly the sixth chamber (456), has increased, the pressure in the middle chamber of the cushion (418) is then restored to its initial level. The pair of outer chambers are then vented to reduce their pressure by draining or extracting fluid from the respective first and second chambers (445, 448). This action reduces the force or pressure applied to the patient's head in the outer chambers, thus allowing increased blood flow to those areas of the patient's head in contact with the outer chambers, more particularly to the areas in contact with the respective fourth and fifth chambers (454, 455). In this case, the middle chambers remain at their original or initial pressure along with the pad (430). Thus, the intermediate chamber and pad (430) provide stabilization to the patient's head, and the tissue area in contact with the outer chamber undergoes a period of increased or restored blood flow to prevent or reduce the risk of tissue trauma in this area.

[0068] The pressure in the outer chamber of the cushion (418) is then restored to its initial level after some time during which the pressure in the outer chamber of the cushion (418) has decreased and blood flow to the patient's tissue areas in contact with the outer chambers, particularly the fourth and fifth chambers (454, 455), has increased. The pressure relief steps described above can be performed multiple times as necessary or desired to help reduce the risk of tissue damage or trauma. Moreover, the pressure relief operations can be completed in any order as required or dictated by the circumstances, such that the sequence of the above described embodiments should not be considered the required order or the only order or sequence.

[0069] With the HFD (400), as described above, the fluid connection between the first chambers (432) of the pads (430) via the tubes (441) allows the pressure in each of the pads (430) to be the same and adjusted simultaneously, so that while the pressure in the pads (430) changes, it does so in the same manner and to the same extent. With the pads (430) positioned entirely on opposite sides of the patient's head, the fluid connection between the first chambers (432) of the pads (430) allows the pressure changes in the pads (430) to promote blood flow to the tissue area contacted by the pads (430) without changing the difference in the force applied by each pad (430) to the opposite sides of the patient's head. This configuration allows for pressure changes in the pads (430) without moving or changing the position of the patient's head.

[0070] For example, in one embodiment, the initial force applied by each of the pads (430) to each side of the patient's head may be about 20 Newtons, and thus the difference in force is zero because the force applied by each of the pads (430) is the same. When the pressure relief step of the embodiment is performed, the force applied by each of the pads (430) to each side of the patient's head may now be about 50 Newtons, and thus the difference in force remains zero because the force applied by each of the pads (430) remains the same. In the illustrated embodiment of the HFD (400), the pads (430) are fluidly connected by tube (441), but this is not required in all versions. For example, in some other versions, the pads (430) may be independently adjustable or controllable with respect to their pressure based on the fluid volume in the first chamber (432).

[0071] Similar to the pad (430), with the HFD (400) as described above, the fluid connection between the first chamber (445) and the second chamber (448) of the cushion (418) via the connecting tube (450) allows the pressure in each of the outer chambers of the cushion (418) to be the same and adjusted simultaneously, so that while the pressure in the outer chambers of the cushion (418) changes, it does so in the same manner and to the same extent. As shown and described, the outer chambers of the cushion (418) are generally located on opposite sides of the sagittal plane of the patient's head when in the supine position, such that the outer chambers of the cushion (418) are located substantially symmetrically about a sagittal plane that divides the patient's head into left and right halves. The fluid connection between the outer chambers of the cushion (418) allows pressure changes in the outer chambers of the cushion (418) to promote blood flow to tissue areas contacted by the outer chambers of the cushion (418) without changing the difference in the force applied to the patient's head by each of the outer chambers of the cushion (418). This configuration allows for pressure changes in the outer chambers of the cushion (418) without the patient's head having to move or change position, i.e., rotate about the patient's longitudinal axis due to uneven forces applied by one of the outer chambers of the cushion (418) compared to the other outer chambers of the cushion (418).

[0072] V. Exemplary Fluid Control Systems and Methods

[0073] Now referring to FIG. 20, a fluid control system (444) having an HFD (400) is shown in schematic form. As described in detail above, the HFD (400) includes pads (430) that provide lateral stabilization to the patient's head, and cushions (418) that provide horizontal support and stabilization. As shown in FIG. 20, a torque screw (443) connects to one of the pads (430) to allow the pads (430) to increase or decrease the pressure they apply to the patient's head. A connecting tube (441) connects the pads (430) together in fluid communication. As described above, the connecting tube (441) connects the first chambers (432) of each pad (430). In this configuration, the pressure in each of the pads (430) is the same, and each of the pads (430) imparts the same force on the patient's head.

[0074] Also connected to the connecting tube (441) is a valve (457). The valve (457) is configured to selectively evacuate fluid from the pad (430) to reduce the pressure in the pad (430) or to allow additional fluid to flow to the pad (430) to increase the pressure in the pad (430). The valve (457) is connected to a pump (458), which is configured to supply additional fluid to the pad (430) when required. In some versions, the pump (458) can also be configured to direct evacuated or extracted fluid away from the pad (430). In fluid communication with the pump (458) is a fluid reservoir (459). The fluid reservoir (459) is configured to provide additional fluid to the pad (430) to be delivered via the pump (458). In some examples, draining fluid from pad (430) involves opening valve (457) and operating pump (458) to move fluid from pad (430) to fluid reservoir (459). Pump (458) can also be used without fluid reservoir (459), such that fluid reservoir (459) may be omitted in some versions. In such versions, pump (458) may be configured to deliver air from the ambient environment to pad (430). Similarly, draining fluid from pad (430) in such versions may involve draining air from pad (430) back to the ambient environment instead of draining into fluid reservoir (459). In some examples, fluid reservoir (459) itself can be considered the ambient environment.

[0075] In one version having a simplified configuration for the fluid control system (444), the fluid reservoir (459) is omitted and the pump (458) comprises a hand or foot pump having a pressure gauge and configured for manual operation. In this embodiment, the pump (458) is selectively connectable to various valves (457, 460, 461) to regulate the fluid volume and pressure within the pad (430) and cushion (418). In some versions, such as that shown in FIG. 25, the fluid control system (480) can have a switchable single valve (463) that can be used in place of the multiple valves (457, 460, 461). In such an example, the valve (463) connects with the pump (458) as well as with the respective ports (447, 453) of the cushion (418). As also shown, valve (463) may be connected to pad (430) via connecting tube (441), although this additional fluid connection is not required in all versions and may be controlled by a separate fluid control system. When controlling fluid within fluid control system (480), valve (463) is configured to allow fluid to be directed to either the fluid-retaining chamber of cushion (418) and / or pad (430). Moreover, valve (463) may be configured to simultaneously direct fluid to two or more of the chambers of cushion (418) and / or pad (430). Pump (458) is configured with pressure gauge (462), which is configured to indicate pressure within a chamber with which valve (463) is actively fluidly connected. Other configurations for the various fluid control systems will be apparent to those of skill in the art in view of the teachings herein. For example, it will be recognized that single or multiple pumps may be used to direct the fluid, single or multiple valves may be used, and various ports and connecting tubes may be used.

[0076] In this embodiment, pump (458) also connects two other valves (460, 461) that connect with respective ports (447, 453) of cushion (418). Valves (460, 461) are configured similarly to valve (457), such that pump (458) can also operate to provide additional fluid from fluid reservoir (459) to either or both of the outer and middle chambers of cushion (418). As described above with respect to HFD (400), fluid is provided to first and third chambers (445, 451) of cushion (418). Additionally, in this configuration, fluid can be evacuated or withdrawn from cushion (418) in one embodiment by either venting fluid to atmosphere via valves (460, 461) or by opening valves (460, 461) and operating pump (458) to transfer fluid to fluid reservoir (459). Other manners of constructing and operating fluid control system (444) to manipulate pressure within pad (430) and cushion (418) will be apparent to those skilled in the art in view of the teachings herein.

[0077] 21 illustrates another exemplary fluid control system (470) that may be used with the multi-chamber cushion (418) of the HFD (400). The fluid control system (470) is configured to provide fluid control that allows the outer and middle chambers to be evacuated or refilled in an alternating manner as described above. Again, as discussed above, this alternating evacuation or pressure relief provides the ability to increase blood flow to certain areas of the patient's head and also maintain proper stabilization of the patient's head.

[0078] As shown in the illustrated version of FIG. 21, fluid control system (470) includes a pump (471) connected to a fluid reservoir (472) containing a fluid. Fluid control system (470) further connects pump (471) to two valves (473, 474). One of valves (473) connects to port (447) of first chamber (445) of cushion (418) and the other valve (474) connects to port (453) of third chamber (448) of cushion (418). The connections between pump (471), fluid reservoir (472), valves (473, 474), and ports (447, 453) fluidly couple those components together such that fluid can be transferred between those components. Thus, the fluid control system (470) is configured to either direct fluid to the cushion (418) or to withdraw or expel fluid from the cushion (418). As explained above, the first chamber (445) of the cushion (418) is connected to the second chamber (448) by a tube (450) so that fluid changes affect both chambers (445, 448) in the same manner and to the same extent, such that the pair of outer chambers have the same pressure.

[0079] Within the interior space (446) of the first chamber (445), the fluid control system (470) includes a pressure sensor (475). In some other versions, the pressure sensor (475) can instead be located within the interior space (449) of the second chamber (448). The fluid control system (470) further includes a pressure sensor (476) located within the interior space (452) of the third chamber (451). In this embodiment, the pressure sensors (475, 476) are connected to a control unit (477). In the illustrated embodiment, the control unit (477) is also located within the interior space (452) of the third chamber (451). In some other versions, the control unit (477) can be located in other locations within the cushion (418) or outside of the cushion (418). Also connected to the control unit (477) are the valves (473, 474) and the pump (471). The connections between the control unit (477), pump (471), valves (473, 474), and sensors (475, 476) allow those components to be in electrical communication such that electrical signals can be transmitted and / or received between those components. The components that transmit and / or receive the signals described herein are powered by batteries contained within those components. Of course, in other versions, a separate power source may be used in place of or in addition to batteries within the components. Other manners of providing power to the components described herein will be apparent to those of skill in the art in view of the teachings herein.

[0080] 21, during operation, the fluid control system (470) can be configured such that the control unit (477) is operable to vary the fluid volumes in the first, second, and third chambers (445, 448, 451) using signals from the pressure sensors (475, 476). For example, after some time has passed during which the patient's head has been stabilized by the HFD (400), it may be desirable to selectively relieve pressure on the patient's head to restore blood flow to certain tissue areas contacted by the HFD (400) to reduce the risk of tissue trauma or damage as described above. The fluid control system (470) allows the control unit (477) to be programmed to execute a set of instructions whereby the outer chamber pairs and the middle chamber of the cushion (418) can be operated in an alternating manner to relieve pressure by evacuating or extracting fluid to allow a period of increased blood flow to the tissue before increasing pressure by redeploying fluid to the respective chambers from which fluid was previously evacuated or extracted.

[0081] By way of example only and not by way of limitation, one alternating sequence of pressure relief using the fluid control system (470) may be implemented by initiating a first pressure relief operation or step in the control unit (477) in which fluid is evacuated or drawn from the first and second chambers (445, 448) until the pressure sensor (475) reaches a predetermined value. The predetermined value may be a percentage decrease in the pressure sensor (475) reading, or it may be a selected pressure value that can be determined to increase blood flow to the tissue region without affecting the stability of the patient. Once the pressure sensor (475) reaches the predetermined value, a predetermined wait period follows, allowing time for the restoration or increase of blood flow to the region of tissue in contact with the outer chamber. After a predetermined wait time has elapsed, the control unit (477) sends a signal to the pump (471) and valve (473) to direct fluid to the first and second chambers (445, 448) to add fluid until the sensor (475) reaches a predetermined value for pressure, which may be the same as the pressure in the outer chamber of the cushion (418) before the pressure relief cycle began, or it may be a different pressure value.

[0082] With the outer chamber refilled and having sufficient pressure to provide sufficient stabilizing force on the patient's head, the control unit (477) then initiates a second pressure relief operation or step in which fluid is evacuated or drawn from the third chamber (451) until the pressure sensor (476) reaches a predetermined value. The predetermined value may be a percentage decrease in the pressure sensor (476) reading, or it may be a selected pressure value that can be determined to increase blood flow to the tissue area without affecting the stability of the patient. Once the pressure sensor (476) reaches the predetermined value, a predetermined wait time follows, which allows time for the restoration or increase of blood flow to the area of ​​tissue in contact with the intermediate chamber. After the predetermined wait time has elapsed, the control unit (477) sends a signal to the pump (471) and valve (474) to add fluid, directing fluid to the third chamber (451) until the sensor (476) reaches a predetermined value for pressure. This predetermined value may be the same as the pressure in the intermediate chamber of the cushion (418) before the pressure relief cycle begins, or it may be a different pressure value. From this point on, when the alternating cycle is completed, the subsequent alternating cycle follows immediately thereafter, or after some time has passed.

[0083] Other manners of constructing and operating fluid control system (470) will be apparent to those skilled in the art in light of the teachings herein. For example, in some versions, sensors (475, 476), valves (473, 474), pump (471), and / or control unit (477) may be connected to an output display on which pressure and fluid data within cushion (418) can be visually displayed. In other examples, this data may be wirelessly transmitted to an instrument having a display, for example, fluid control system (470) may be operable via an application installed on a computer or tablet. Still further, in other versions, control unit (477) may be located outside cushion (418) and may be further connected to pad (430) using similar sensors and valves such that control unit (477) is capable of controlling fluid delivery and withdrawal from one or more of pads (430) as well as both chambers of cushion (418). Furthermore, in some versions, pump (471) includes an integrated measurement of pressure such that one or both of sensors (475, 476) can be an effective part of or within pump (471).

[0084] VI. EXEMPLARY HEAD IMPROVEMENT DEVICES HAVING ARC AND CURVED MEMBER

[0085] As described above with respect to several exemplary HFDs, in certain embodiments, the connected arc members and skull clamps are adjustable to some degree toward or away from the cushion of the HFD that supports the patient's head. Figure 22 depicts another exemplary HFD (500) that includes this type of adjustability, but which incorporates different arc members (540) and curved members (502) as described further below.

[0086] 22-24, the HFD (500) is similar with respect to the HFD (300) described above, except that the HFD (500) incorporates an arc member (540) instead of the arc member (140) described above, and the HFD (500) includes a curved member (502). The HFD (500) includes a skull clamp (170) and an actuator (190) as described above. The HFD (500) also includes a central head support (310) and a pivoting cushion (318) as described above with respect to the HFD (300). It should be noted that the cushion (318) may be replaced with other cushions, such as cushions (418, 118). In view of the teachings herein, the manner in which the cushions (118, 418) are incorporated in place of the cushion (318) will be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art. The HFD (500) further includes a stabilization assembly (186) similar to the HFD (300) in which pins are used to stabilize the patient's head. It should be noted that the HFD (500) may be modified such that the pads (430) described above with respect to the HFD (400) may replace the pins illustrated in other versions. In view of the teachings herein, the manner in which the pads (430) are incorporated into the stabilization assembly (186) in place of the pins will be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art. As noted, except as described below, the features of the HFD (500) are identical to those described above with respect to the HFD (300). Thus, for the sake of brevity, the features of the HFD (300) described above apply equally to the HFD (500), except for the differences described above and below.

[0087] With the HFD (500), the central head support (310) and the arc member (540) are configured to adjust the spacing between the central head support (310) and the arc member (540). Because the arc member (540) connects with the skull clamp (170) in the same manner as the arc member (140) does as described above, adjusting the spacing between the central head support (310) and the arc member (540) also adjusts the spacing between the central head support (310) and the skull clamp (170). The arc member (540) includes a connector (544). The connector (544) adjustably connects with a curved member (502) as shown in the illustrated version in Figures 22-24. The curved member (502) includes an elongated portion (503) and a beam portion (504). As illustrated, there is a slot (545) in the connector (544). The slot (545) receives the elongated portion (503) of the curved member (502). As also shown, the curved member (502) further connects to the body (312) of the central head support (310). As illustrated, within the body (312) is a slot (324). The slot (324) receives the beam portion (504) of the curved member (502). With this configuration, the elongated portion (503) of the curved member (502) defines an arc length and a radius of curvature. The radius of curvature represents the distance from the center point of the patient's head when positioned on the cushion (318) to a point in the middle of the cross section of the elongated portion (503). By way of example only and not of limitation, in some embodiments, the curved member (502) can have an arc length of about 80 to about 180 millimeters and can define a radius of curvature of about 120 to about 200 millimeters. For example, in one embodiment, curved member (502) defines a radius of curvature of approximately 162 millimeters with an arc length of approximately 123 millimeters. Of course, those specific dimensions are not required in all versions, and other suitable dimensions will be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art in view of the teachings herein.

[0088] In this embodiment, the profile of the elongated portion (503) of the curved member (502) has a complementary shape to the slot (545). Additionally, the profile of the beam portion (504) has a complementary shape to the slot (324). In this embodiment, the elongated portion (503) and the slot (545) together form a dovetail interface in cross section, and the beam portion (504) and the slot (324) together form a dovetail interface in cross section. In this manner, the arc member (540) is adjustable relative to the central head support (310) by moving the connector (544) with its slot (545) along the elongated portion (503) of the curved member (502). Additionally, the arc member (540) is adjustable relative to the central head support (310) by moving the beam portion (504) of the curved member (502) along the slot (324) of the central head support (310). This configuration thus provides multiple ways, in this embodiment two ways, to adjust the spacing between the arc members (540), their connected skull clamps (170), and the central head support (310).

[0089] In this embodiment, moving the slot (545) of the connector (544) of the arc member (540) along the elongated portion (503) of the curved member (502) occurs along an arc or curved path. In this manner, the arc member (540) is rotatable relative to the curved member (502), with the rotation occurring along the interface of the slot (545) of the connector (544) and the elongated portion (503) of the curved member (502). In this embodiment, the slot (545) comprises a radius of curvature, and the elongated portion (503) of the curved member (502) defines a matching radius of curvature.

[0090] The curved member (502) is oriented perpendicular to the curved elongated member (542) of the arc member (540) in this embodiment. In other words, the plane defined by the curved elongated member (542) of the arc member (540) is perpendicular to the plane defined by the longitudinal arc of the elongated portion (503) of the curved member (502). In this configuration, the arc member (540) can rotate around the patient's head along the patient's longitudinal axis as the patient's head is supported by the cushion (318) of the HFD (500). This adjustment complements and provides another adjustment for safely stabilizing the patient in addition to the adjustments described above with respect to the adjustable skull clamp (170) along the curved elongated member (542) of the arc member (540). Thus, with this configuration, the skull clamp (170) can be rotationally adjusted about the patient's head, both about the patient's longitudinal axis extending through the patient's head, and along the patient's longitudinal axis extending through the patient's head, by connecting the skull clamp (170) with the arc members (540). This range of adjustment helps facilitate proper placement and seating of the stabilization assembly (186) on the patient's head.

[0091] As described above, the arc member (540) can also translate relative to the central head support (310) of the HFD (500). This translation occurs along the interface of the beam portion (504) and the slot (324). Thus, as the arc member (540) is adjusted relative to the central head support (310), the beam portion (504) of the curved member (502) translates in a linear manner within the slot (324). This adjustment, in combination with the other adjustments described above, provides an additional degree of freedom for positioning or installing the stabilization assembly (186) and skull clamp (170) on the patient's head. In view of the teachings herein, other manners of configuring the arc member (540) and curved member (502) to provide proper positioning of the stabilization assembly (186) for safe patient stabilization in conjunction with the HFD (500) will be apparent to those skilled in the art.

[0092] To control the rotational adjustment of the arc member (540) along the elongated portion (503) of the curved member (502) as described above, the connector (544) of the arc member (540) includes an actuator (548) that controls a locking mechanism within the connector (544) that selectively secures the relative position of the connector (544) along the elongated portion (503) of the curved member (502). The actuator (548) and locking mechanism are similar to the actuator (148) and locking mechanism (149) as described above with respect to the HFD (100). Similarly, to control the translational adjustment of the beam portion (504) of the curved member (502) along the slot (324) of the central head support (310), the central head support (310) includes the actuator (148) and locking mechanism (149) as described above with respect to the HFD (100). With HFD (500), actuator (148) and locking mechanism (149) can be configured and operated in the same manner as described above with respect to HFD (100). In view of the teachings herein, other manners in which HFD (500) can be modified to control adjustability of arc member (540) relative to curved member (502) and to control adjustability of curved member (502) relative to central head support (310) will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art.

[0093] VII. EXEMPLARY NON-INVASIVE HEAD IMPROVEMENT DEVICE WITH SLIDABLE PAD

[0094] Referring to FIG. 26, an exemplary HFD (600) configured for non-invasive head stabilization is shown, similar to the HFD (400), but incorporating a pad (614) that is slidable against a support assembly (612). The support assembly (612) comprises a base assembly (616) having a replaceable and adjustable head cushion (618). A gear ring or starburst connector (620) in the base assembly (616) connects the support assembly (612) with a base unit (not shown) via a swivel adapter (not shown). In some examples, the support assembly (612) is radiolucent, along with the swivel adapter and base unit. By way of example only and not limitation, some exemplary swivel adapters and base units suitable for use with the support assembly (612) are available from pro med instruments GmbH of Freiburg, Germany.

[0095] The support assembly (612) includes two extension bars (622) that can be positioned independently. On the bottom side of the base assembly (616) are located two release knobs (624), one for each extension bar (622). Pulling out the knobs (624) releases a ratcheting mechanism inside the base assembly (616) and the extension bars (622) can be removed or otherwise adjusted. Adjustment of the extension bars (622) allows the extension bars (622) to move laterally relative to the base assembly (616) to move toward or away from the patient's head supported by the base assembly (616) and head cushion (618). In this embodiment, both extension bars (622) have separate ratcheting mechanisms that can be released with one hand either separately or simultaneously. In this manner, the extension bars (622) on one side can be laterally adjusted independently of the extension bars (622) on the other side. Furthermore, simultaneous actuation of the release knobs (624) allows the adjustment of each extension bar (622) to be controlled simultaneously.

[0096] Each of the two extension bars (622) comprises an L-shape having a lateral extension portion (625) and an upright extension portion (623). A toothed region (626) extends along the side portion. The toothed region (626) is part of a ratchet mechanism that engages a complementary toothed feature (628) on the release knob (624) to engage the extension bar (622) relative to the base assembly (616). Together, the toothed region (626) of the extension bar (622) and the toothed feature (628) on the release knob (624) comprise the ratchet mechanism.

[0097] Along the upright extension of each extension bar (622), a slide (630) is mounted and adjustable along the upright extension (623). The slide (630) is secured by connection with and tightening a locking mechanism, such as a bolt, torque screw, or other similar mechanism. Securing the slide (630) relative to the upright extension of the extension bar (622) is accomplished by tightening the slide (630) to pull the slide (630) against the respective extension bar (622). This adjustability of the slide (630) along the upright extension of the extension bar (622) allows for height adjustment of the pad (614) connected to the slide (630), as discussed further below. In this embodiment, the cross-sectional shape of the upright extension of the extension bar (622) is trapezoidal. Thus, the upright extension of the extension bar (622) includes inwardly sloping sides (632) such that the outer surface (634) of the extension bar (622) has a greater width than the inner surface (636) of the extension bar (622). In this embodiment, this shape of the upright extension of the extension bar (622) allows for the attachment of accessories such as, for example, retractors, by fastening such accessories to the upright extension of the extension bar (622).

[0098] In this version of the HFD (600), a torque screw (638) connects with the slide (630) on one side. On the inner side of the torque screw (638), a replaceable shell (640) is mounted as a receptacle for the pad (614). This shell (640) is rotatable so that the pad (614) can be adjusted. For example, the pad (614), in this embodiment, includes an ear (642), and rotating the pad (614) allows the ear (642) to be positioned to accommodate the patient's ear. In some examples, the ear (642) may be referred to as an ear recess, indentation, or cutout.

[0099] The torque screw (638) also includes an exterior rotatable handle (644). Adjusting the handle (644) of the torque screw (638) moves the shell (640) and connected pads (614) toward the patient's head. In response to pressure inside the air chambers of the pads (614), a spring inside the torque screw (638) deforms, covering a scale (648) on the exterior surface that indicates the applied force, as described below.

[0100] In this version of the HFD (600), the locking bolt (650) connects with the slide (630) on the other side of the support assembly (612) opposite the side with the torque screw (638). On the inner side of the bolt (650), a replaceable shell (640) is mounted as a receptacle for the pad (614). This shell (640) is rotatable so that the pad (614) can be adjusted. For example, the pad (614) includes an ear (642) in this embodiment, and rotating the pad (614) allows the ear (642) to be positioned to accommodate the patient's ear. In some examples, the ear (642) may be referred to as an ear recess, indentation, or cutout. The locking bolt (650) also includes an outer rotatable handle (652). Depending on the direction of rotation, adjusting the handle (652) of the locking bolt (650) either locks the slide portion (630) relative to the upright extension portion (623) in a desired position or releases the slide portion (630) relative to the upright extension portion (623) for adjustment.

[0101] Due to the configuration of the two extension bars (622) with the torque screw (638) and locking bolt (650) on each respective bar (622), and the ability to adjust the position of the pads (614) relative to the patient's head (and also relative to the central axis (A3) of the support assembly (612) that extends longitudinally through the base assembly (616), the pads (614) can be positioned with equal distances to the head resting on the head cushion (618). This leaves the head in a centered position on the main head cushion (618). As will be explained in more detail below, the pads (614) on each side include fluid chambers (654) interconnected via conduits or hoses (656), so that the pressure applied to the head from both sides is equal. This configuration further facilitates maintaining the head in a centered position on the main head cushion (618).

[0102] This centralizing promotion described above is not sufficient in certain other support and immobilization structures where force is applied to the head only from one side, or substantially from one side. For example, some support and immobilization structures are fixed on one side and then apply pads or pins from the other side using adjustable tightening and / or force application. In such instances, the patient's head is effectively drawn toward the fixed side of the support and immobilization structure. When a head support or cushion such as head cushion (618) is used, the patient's head is drawn against the fringe or edge of the indentation of the head support cushion where the head is typically placed when not in a fixed position. This uneven or highly directional application of force from one side leads to excessively high contact pressure in this area near the head cushion, creating pressure artifacts.

[0103] As mentioned above, the above described HFD (600) with the configuration of two extension bars (622) allows the pad (614) to be positioned with equal distance to the head resting on the head cushion (618). The fluid chambers (654) of the pad (614) are interconnected via the hose (656), so that the pressure on the head from both sides is equal. This combination leaves the head in a centered position on the primary head cushion (618), which may sometimes also be referred to as the head support cushion.

[0104] In this embodiment, although not required in all embodiments, the entire support assembly 612, including the torque screw 638 and the locking bolt 650, is radiolucent. As such, the entire support assembly 612 is fabricated from a synthetic material to achieve radiolucency.

[0105] A. Exemplary Pad

[0106] In this version, each pad (614) is constructed from a synthetic material, which may be referred to as a foil in some instances. As best seen in Figures 33 and 34, the pad (614) is constructed from two separate chambers that provide two layers between the support assembly (612) and the patient's head. The first chamber (654) is a fluid chamber. The fluid chamber (654) is fillable with air in this embodiment, although other fluids, including liquids, may be used in other versions. The fluid chamber (654) is located between the support assembly (612) and a second chamber (658) that is filled with a particulate material (660). The particulate material chamber (658) is positioned to contact the patient during use. During use, the fluid chamber (654) is configured to be filled to draw the particulate material chamber (658) against the patient's head.

[0107] In this embodiment, the granular material (660) in the granular material chamber (658) comprises granules of expanded polystyrene foam, sometimes referred to as EPS granules. The granular material chamber (658) comprises small holes or outlets (662) in the outer material that defines the chamber (658). The small holes (662) may be near seams or along edges so that they are not blocked or closed by contact between the chamber (658) and the patient's head. When the fluid chamber (654) is empty, air is present between the EPS granules in the second chamber (658). When stabilizing the patient's head, the pad (614) is positioned between the patient's head and the support assembly (612). By filling the fluid chamber (654), pressure is applied by the fluid chamber (654) to the granular material chamber (658), thereby pushing out any air between the EPS granules that leak out through the holes or outlets (662). The EPS granules are thereby forced together and aligned or conformed to the patient's head shape. In this manner, pressure applied to the patient's head is evenly distributed and correlates with the pressure inside the fluid chambers (654). As described above, the fluid chambers (654) of each pad (614) on each side of the support assembly (612) are connected by hoses (656), leading to equal pressure levels in both pads (614). In this embodiment, a hand pump (664) is connectable to the hoses (656) to apply pressure to the fluid chambers (654) of each pad (614). The pump (664) also provides a relief valve (666) that releases pressure from the fluid chambers (654).

[0108] In addition to providing an even or homogenous distribution of contact pressure with the patient's head due to the configuration described above, the HFD (600) provides a high level of stability. For example, the HFD (600) can provide non-invasive stabilization for up to about 12 hours within pressure indications, for example, via a scale on the torque screw (638) or via a gauge (668) on the hand pump (664). Prior to this development, long term stabilization of the patient's head by pressure indication means has used invasive pinning techniques.

[0109] The pad (614) is constructed in one version such that the fluid chamber (654) and the particulate material chamber (658) are separate chambers but sealed together as a single pad. In this version, the pad (614) may include a membrane positioned between the chambers (654, ​​658), although a membrane is not required in all versions.

[0110] In another version, the pad (614) is constructed such that each chamber (654, ​​658) is separable from the other. Thus, the pad (614) is constructed from two separate pads, one for each chamber (654, ​​658), that are used together as a type of pad assembly. This configuration of the pad (614) allows the particulate material chamber (658), which contacts the patient, to be a disposable product or component, while the fluid chamber (654) can be reworked and reused. Reworking of the fluid chamber (654) of the pad (614) can be accomplished, for example, by automated or manual cleaning. Similarly, the support assembly (612) of the non-invasive radiolucent HFD (600) is suitable for steam sterilization, as well as automated cleaning and disinfection.

[0111] B. Exemplary Pressure Applications and Indications

[0112] Whether the pad (614) uses integrated or combined chambers (654, ​​658) in a single chamber pad configuration, or whether the pad (614) uses separate chambers (654, ​​658) in a multi-chamber pad configuration, pressure application and force indication by the HFD (600) can be accomplished using a torque screw (638) and / or a hand pump (664) having a pressure gauge (668).

[0113] When using the torque screw (638), the fluid chamber (654) of each pad (614) associated with a respective extension bar (622) is connected by a hose (656) and pre-filled with air or other fluid prior to use, as shown in FIG. 35. The torque screw (638) is mounted in the support assembly (612) to draw the pad (614) toward the patient's head, thereby increasing the pressure inside the fluid chamber (654). The applied pressure is displayed to the user by a scale (648) on the torque screw (638).

[0114] When pre-filling the fluid chambers (654), pre-filling can be accomplished in a variety of ways. In one embodiment, the fluid chambers (654) are pre-filled during manufacturing such that the pads (614) are delivered with pre-filled fluid chambers (654). In this embodiment, the fluid chambers (614) of the two pads (614) have a hose (656) connecting them, but the fluid chambers (654) and hoses (656) are sealed so that additional fluid cannot be added or removed. In this embodiment, pressure increases or decreases based on the tightening of the torque screws (638) and compression of the pads (614) against the patient's head.

[0115] In another embodiment for pre-filling the fluid chambers (654), the hose (656) connecting the two fluid chambers (654) can have a port that allows connection to a hand pump (664). The hand pump (664) in this embodiment may or may not have a gauge (668). In yet another embodiment, the hose (656) can have a port that can be connected to a large syringe for pre-filling with air or fluid. In some embodiments for pre-filling, a port that provides access to receive air or fluid can be included in the hose (656) as described above, or a port can be included in one or more of the fluid chambers (654) of the pad (614). In some embodiments, the port comprises a valve that selectively seals the fluid chamber (654). In some examples, the valve can be a one-way valve that allows air or fluid to be added to the fluid chamber (654) but not removed.

[0116] Alternatively or in addition to using a torque screw (638) for pressure application and force indication, such pressure application and force indication can be accomplished by connecting a hand pump (664) having a pressure gauge (668) to the fluid chamber (654) either directly or indirectly via a hose (656). In this embodiment, pre-filling can be performed, but is not required as the fluid chamber (654) can be filled during use. In this configuration, the two fluid chambers (654) of the pad (614) connected by a hose (656) and connected to a hand pump (664) having a pressure gauge (668) provide feedback to the user regarding the contact pressure applied. In this regard, the contact pressure represents the surface pressure applied by the pad (614) on the patient's head, which correlates to the pressure in the fluid chamber (654). In some versions, the pressure gauge (668) of the hand pump (664) is calibrated to indicate the contact pressure at the interface between the patient's head and the pad (614) as opposed to indicating the pressure in the fluid chamber (654) itself. In other versions, the pressure gauge (668) can be configured to indicate the pressure in the fluid chamber (654) itself by correlation of its indication to the contact pressure, which is then performed by manual or automatic correlation. Similarly, in versions using a torque screw (638), the scale (648) may be configured to correlate to the contact pressure.

[0117] In one embodiment using a hand pump (664), the gauge (668) is configured to provide the user with an overall indication of acceptable pressure ranges. These may be indicated by color bands on the pressure gauge (668) as opposed to a finite number or pressure reading. For example, the pressure gauge (668) may comprise a green band or area followed by an adjacent red band or area. When the needle of the pressure gauge (668) points anywhere within the green band, then an appropriate amount of pressure is being used. In this sense, an appropriate amount of pressure is pressure that provides the desired stabilization benefit and is not so great as to injure or damage the patient. In this embodiment, if the needle of the pressure gauge (668) falls within the red band, then the pressure is too great and may place the patient at an unacceptable level of risk for injury. Also, in this embodiment, another color band, e.g., white or yellow, may be presented to represent a condition where the pressure is too low such that the desired stabilization cannot be achieved. The hand pumps (664) may be configured with different gauges (668) based on the particular patient and / or procedure, or different hand pumps (664) may be used altogether. For example, the hand pumps (664) may be configured with one gauge (668) when used with a pediatric patient, but with a different gauge when used with an adult patient. The gauges may have differently calibrated color bands based on the type of patient and / or procedure requirements.

[0118] In some versions, the HFD (600) is configured such that pressure can be adjusted when the HFD (600) is in use. For example, in versions including a hand pump (664) connectable to the fluid chamber (654) directly or indirectly via a hose (656), the hand pump (664) may be accessible to add or remove fluid from the fluid chamber (654) during a procedure. In some cases, the hand pump (664) may include an extension conduit that connects the hand pump (664) to the fluid chamber (654) directly or indirectly via a hose (656) and allows the hand pump (664) to be located some distance away from the HFD (600). This allows the hand pump (664) to be repositioned from underneath a surgical drape so that it can be easily accessed during a procedure without disturbing such surgical drapes, or other instruments or accessories that may be used with the HFD (600).

[0119] In versions that use a torque screw (638) for pressure application and indication, pressure may also be adjusted while the HFD (600) is in use by accessing a handle (644) of the torque screw (638) and adjusting the torque screw (638) by rotating the handle (644). In some instances, the torque screw (638) may be underneath a surgical drape, and accessing the torque screw (638) may require temporary removal or repositioning of the surgical drape.

[0120] While some of the above embodiments have described the use of a hand pump (664), it will be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art in light of the teachings herein that in some other versions, the hand pump (664) may be replaced with an automatic pump or even a pump system having a control mechanism for setting, monitoring, and maintaining a desired pressure.

[0121] With the HFD (600) as described above, the support assembly (612) and pads (614) minimize head position shifts. For example, the properties of the pads (614) described above, as well as the stiffness of the extension bars (622) and clamp structure, facilitate this minimization of head position shifts. This in turn allows the HFD (600) to provide a non-invasive head stabilization structure that can be used with intraoperative navigation techniques. By way of example and not limitation, the HFD (600) is suitable for electromagnetic navigation, such as the Brainlab Kick EM. Additionally, the combination of long-term non-invasive head stabilization and radiolucency allows for intraoperative imaging (CT, MRI, ultrasound).

[0122] In use, when the HFD (600) is used to stabilize the patient's head, the head is first supported from underneath by the head cushion (618) and the base assembly (616). The extension bar (622) is then adjusted around the base assembly (616) by advancing the extension bar (622) towards the central axis (A3) of the HFD (600). The slide (630) and pad (614) are then adjusted to contact the patient's head in a desired manner, for example to offset or align with the patient's ears. In versions of the HFD where only one or more torque screws (638) are used for pressure application and indication, with the slide (630) tightened and the pad (614) fixed, the one or more torque screws (638) are tightened down to advance the fluid chamber (654) towards the particulate material chamber (658) to encourage the pad (614) to conform to the patient's head. In versions of the HFD in which a pump (664) is used for pressure application and indication, the pump (664) is actuated to add air or fluid to the fluid chamber (654), which then advances the fluid chamber (654) towards the particulate material chamber (658) to facilitate conforming the pad (614) to the patient's head, as described above. Once the pad (614) is positioned and conformed to the patient's head, adjustments can be made to the torque screw (638) and / or via the hand pump (664), as the case may be, depending on the HFD configuration or version, to achieve the desired level of contact pressure by the patient for head stabilization.

[0123] Not all of the above steps in the exemplary stabilization method are required in every stabilization procedure. In some cases, one or more adjustments may be omitted and / or other steps may be included. Similarly, adjustments other than those described in the example procedures above may be made in sequence. In light of the teachings herein, other procedures for supporting and stabilizing a patient's head using any of the HFDs described herein will be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art.

[0124] Other HFDs or modified versions of HFD (600) are shown in Figures 36 and 37 as HFD (700) and HFD (800). HFD (700) is constructed the same or similarly to HFD (600) described above, except that HFD (700) includes two torque screws (738), one for each pad (614). With this configuration, HFD (700) omits the hose (656) between the two fluid chambers (654) of pad (614). As described above, with this configuration for HFD (700), pad (614) is pre-filled with fluid and sealed during manufacture.

[0125] The HFD (800) is constructed the same or similar to the HFD (600) as described above, except that the HFD (800) omits the torque screw entirely and instead includes two locking bolts (850), one for each pad (614). With this configuration, pressure application and indication is accomplished by a pump (664) that provides air or fluid to the fluid chambers (654) of each pad (614) and the gauges (668) of the pump (664). In the same manner as described above with respect to the HFD (600), the HFD (800) allows the pump (664) to be connected to the fluid chambers (654) directly or indirectly via a hose (856). Furthermore, the operability of the pump (664) and gauges (668) is the same as the HFD (800) as described above with respect to those examples in which the HFD (600) uses the pump (664) and gauges (668).

[0126] Various other ways of modifying the HFD (600, 700, 800) or any of its components will be apparent to those of skill in the art in view of the teachings herein. For example, in some versions, the HFD (600, 700, 800) may incorporate any of the central head supports (110, 310, 410) and / or arc members (140, 240, 540) described above.

[0127] VIII. Exemplary Non-Invasive Head Immobilization Device with Multi-Chamber Pad

[0128] 38, an exemplary HFD (900) is shown that is similar in many respects to the HFD (400), but incorporates a multi-chambered pad (930) to provide non-invasive stabilization. The mechanics of the HFD (900) are identical to those described above with respect to the HFD (400), except as described below. Thus, for the sake of brevity, the mechanics of the HFD (900) described above apply equally to the HFD (400), except for the differences described below.

[0129] 38-40, the HFD (900) includes a multi-chamber pad (930) that interfaces with the skull clamp (170) as described above. Each pad (930) of the HFD (900) includes a multi-chamber structure having a first chamber (944) with an interior space (939) configured to be filled with a fluid. The fluid may be a gas or a liquid. The first chamber (944) includes a port (945) configured to provide access to the interior space (939). The fluid may be directed to the interior space (939) within the first chamber (944) or may be drawn or expelled from the interior space (939) of the first chamber (944). When expelling the fluid from the first chamber (944), all or a portion of the fluid may be released or expelled from the interior space (939). Each pad (930) further comprises a second chamber (932) having an interior space (931) configured to be filled with fluid, or fluid may be extracted or drained from the interior space (931) of the second chamber (932). When draining fluid from the second chamber (932), all or a portion of the fluid may be released or drained from the interior space (931). In this embodiment, the interior space (939) of the first chamber (944) and the interior space (931) of the second chamber (932) are fluidly connected by a connecting tube (946) extending between the interior spaces (931, 939) of the first and second chambers (944, 932).

[0130] Each pad (930) further comprises a third chamber (942) positioned between the first and second chambers (944, 932). In this configuration, the first and second chambers (944, 932) collectively define a pair of outer chambers, and the third chamber (942) defines an intermediate chamber. The third chamber (942) also comprises an interior space (947), and the connecting tube (946) extends through the interior space (947) of the third chamber (942). The interior space (947) of the third chamber (942), like the first and second chambers (944, 932), is configured to be filled with a fluid. Fluid may be added to or removed from the interior space (947), which may change the pressure in this region of the pad (930). The third chamber (942) includes a port (940) similar to the first chamber (944). The port (940) provides access to the interior space (947) and is used to direct fluid into or evacuate fluid from the interior space (947).

[0131] Each pad (930) further comprises a fourth chamber (941), a fifth chamber (933), and a sixth chamber (943), each configured to be filled with a conformable material. The first chamber (944) is positioned adjacent to the fourth chamber (941), which is configured to contact the patient's head. The second chamber (932) is positioned adjacent to the fifth chamber (933), which is configured to contact the patient's head. The third chamber (942) is positioned adjacent to the sixth chamber (943), which is configured to contact the patient's head. In view of the teachings herein, it will be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art that the relative positions of the first and fourth chambers (944, 941), the second and fifth chambers (932, 933), and the third and sixth chambers (942, 943) may be switched in other versions. In one version, the conformal material in the fourth, fifth, and sixth chambers (941, 933, 943) is any one of a gel, a foam, a particulate material, or a combination thereof. In view of the teachings herein, it will be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art that other conformal materials may be used with the pad (930).

[0132] With the configuration of the pad (930) described above, the pad (930) is configured to provide various pressure profiles depending on the manner of regulation by the fluid and the respective internal spaces (939, 931, 947). For example, in some versions, a uniform distribution of contact pressure can be achieved where the third chamber (942) is configured to hold an amount of fluid per unit of volume in the internal space (947) that is the same as in the internal spaces (939, 931) of the first and second chambers (944, 932). In yet other versions, the outer chambers may have matching pressures and the middle chambers have pressures that may be higher or lower than the pressure in the outer chambers. Furthermore, in this configuration with different pressures between the outer and middle chambers, fluid may be drained and / or added in a controlled manner resulting in a manner that promotes blood flow to areas of the patient's tissue in contact with portions of the pad (930) and maintains a secure stabilization of the patient's head. Still other suitable configurations for the multi-chamber pad (930) will be apparent to those skilled in the art in view of the teachings herein.

[0133] IX. Exemplary Combinations The following examples relate to various non-exclusive ways in which the teachings herein may be combined or applied. It should be understood that the following examples are not intended to limit the scope of any claims that may be presented at any time in this application or in any subsequent application of this application. No disclaimer is intended. The following examples are provided for illustrative purposes only. It is anticipated that the various teachings herein may be prepared and applied in many other ways. It is also anticipated that some variations may omit certain features mentioned in the following examples. Thus, unless later expressly indicated otherwise by the inventor or a successor involved in the inventor, none of the aspects or features mentioned below should be considered critical. If any claim is presented in this application or in a subsequent application related to this application that includes additional features beyond those mentioned below, those additional features should not be presumed to have been added for any reason related to patentability.

[0134] Example 1 1. A medical device for supporting and stabilizing a patient's head during a medical procedure, the medical device being configured to prevent slippage while supporting and stabilizing the patient's head, the medical device comprising: (a) a central head support configured to connect directly or indirectly to a surgical table via one or more intermediate structures, the central head support being further configured to provide horizontal support to the patient's head, the central head support including a cushion configured to contact the patient's head; (b) an arc member connected to the central head support; (c) a skull clamp configured to adjustably connect to the arc member such that the skull clamp is movable along the arc member to change a position of the skull clamp relative to the central head support; and (d) an actuator configured to selectively secure the position of the skull clamp along the arc member.

[0135] Example 2 The medical device of Example 1, wherein the skull clamp includes (a) a locking member and (b) a pair of extension bars received by the locking member, each of which is movable independently relative to the locking member and each other and is independently lockable with the locking member to selectively secure each of the extension bars with the locking member, and each of which includes an upper end portion configured to receive a stabilization assembly configured to contact the patient's head and provide lateral support and stabilization to the patient's head.

[0136] Example 3 The medical device of Example 2, wherein the skull clamp further includes a position adapter configured to connect with the locking member and the arc member, the position adapter being movable along the arc member to change the position of the skull clamp relative to the central head support.

[0137] Example 4 The medical device of any one or more of Examples 1-3, wherein the central head support further comprises a base to which the cushion connects.

[0138] Example 5 A medical device described in any one or more of Examples 2-4, wherein an upper end portion of each extension bar includes a bore configured to receive a stabilization assembly, and the bores in the upper end portions of each extension bar align with each other when the locking member receives each of the extension arms of the pair of extension arms.

[0139] Example 6 A medical device described in any one or more of Examples 2-5, wherein each extension bar defines a longitudinal axis extending from a base of the extension bar along an upright portion of the extension bar, and wherein the bore of each extension bar is offset from the longitudinal axis defined by each respective extension bar.

[0140] Example 7 A medical device described in any one or more of Examples 2-6, wherein an upper end portion of each elongation bar includes a bore configured to receive a stabilization assembly, and the bores in each upper end portion of each elongation bar define a common axis extending through a center of the bore.

[0141] Example 8 A medical device according to any one or more of Examples 3 to 7, wherein the position adapter is adjustably connected to the locking member.

[0142] Example 9 The medical device of any one or more of Examples 3-8, wherein the position adapter defines a second plane extending perpendicular to the first plane defined by the central head support, the first plane extending downward relative to the patient's head when the patient's head is supported by the central head support, and the locking member is adjustable along the second plane, and adjustment of the locking member along the second plane changes the spacing between the locking member and the central head support.

[0143] Example 10 A medical device described in any one or more of Examples 2-9, wherein each extension bar includes a toothed rack configured to engage with the locking portion.

[0144] Example 11 A medical device according to any one or more of Examples 2 to 10, wherein the pair of extension bars are interchangeable from left to right.

[0145] Example 12 The medical device of any one or more of Examples 1-11, wherein movement of the skull clamp along the arc member repositions the skull clamp concentrically around the patient's head.

[0146] Example 13 The medical device of any one or more of Examples 1-12, wherein movement of the skull clamp along the arc member repositions the skull clamp about a longitudinal axis of the patient, which extends from the patient's head to the patient's feet.

[0147] Example 14 A medical device described in any one or more of Examples 3 to 13, wherein the actuator is configured to selectively secure the position of the skull clamp along the arc member and selectively secure the position of the locking member relative to the position adapter.

[0148] Example 15 A medical device described in any one or more of Examples 3 to 14, wherein the actuator is configured to simultaneously selectively secure the position of the skull clamp along the arc member and the position of the locking member relative to the position adapter.

[0149] Example 16 A medical device described in any one or more of Examples 2-15, wherein each extension bar of the pair of extension bars defines a rail configured to receive one or more accessories positionable along at least a portion of the extension bar.

[0150] Example 17 The medical device of any one or more of Examples 1-16, wherein the arc member further includes a connector configured to connect with the central head support, the connector being adjustable along or parallel to a first plane defined by the central head support to change a position of the arc member relative to the central head support.

[0151] Example 18 The medical device of any one or more of Examples 1-17, wherein the arc member extends outward in opposite directions from just below the central head support along an arcuate path such that adjustment of the skull clamp along the arc member allows for positioning of the skull clamp diagonally sideways up to about 45 degrees on either side of the patient's head supported by the central head support.

[0152] Example 19 The medical device of any one or more of Examples 1-17, wherein the arc member extends outward in one direction from beneath the central head support along an arcuate path.

[0153] Example 20 A medical device as described in any one or more of Examples 1-17 and 19, wherein the arc member is connectable to the central head support in a selected one of a first orientation and a second orientation, and in the second orientation, the arc member extends outward from directly beneath the central head support in a first direction opposite to a second direction extending outward from directly beneath the central head support in the first orientation.

[0154] Example 21 A medical device described in any one or more of Examples 1 to 20, wherein the cushion of the central head support includes a first chamber, the first chamber including an internal space configured to be filled with a fluid, the first chamber including a port configured to provide access to the internal space, and the first chamber is further configured to be drained to release all or a portion of the fluid from the internal space.

[0155] Example 22 A medical device described in any one or more of Examples 1 to 21, wherein the cushion of the central head support further includes a second chamber configured to be filled with a shape-conforming material, the first chamber being positioned downwardly relative to the second chamber, and the second chamber being configured to contact the patient's head.

[0156] Example 23 The medical device of example 22, wherein the conformable material is comprised of a selected one of a particulate material, a gel, a foam, and combinations thereof.

[0157] Example 24 A medical device described in any one or more of Examples 1 to 23, wherein the cushion provides an even distribution of contact pressure with the patient's head when the patient's head is supported by the central head support.

[0158] Example 25 25. The medical device of example 24, wherein the contact pressure can be increased by filling the first chamber with fluid through the port, and the contact pressure can be decreased by draining the fluid from the first chamber.

[0159] Example 26 A medical device described in any one or more of Examples 21-25, wherein evacuating fluid from the first chamber reduces pressure within the cushion, thereby reducing contact pressure with the patient's head, thereby increasing blood flow to the patient's head in the area where the cushion was previously in contact with the patient's head.

[0160] Example 27 The medical device of any one or more of Examples 1-26, wherein the central head support further includes a base connected to the cushion, the base including a connecting member defining an axis extending transversely across the base, and the base is pivotable about the axis defined by the connecting member to pivotably adjust the orientation of the cushion.

[0161] Example 28 The cushion of the central head support portion includes (a) a first chamber including a first internal space; and (b) a second chamber, the second chamber including a second internal space, the first internal space and the second internal space being fluidly connected by a first connecting tube extending therebetween such that pressures in the first chamber and the second chamber are the same, the first chamber including a first port configured to provide access to the first internal space and the second internal space, and the first chamber and the second chamber configured to be filled with fluid or drained to release all or a portion of the fluid via the first port. and (c) a third chamber positioned between the first and second chambers such that the first and second chambers collectively define a pair of outer chambers, the third chamber defining an intermediate chamber and including a third internal space, the first connecting tube extending through the third internal space, the third chamber including a second port configured to provide access to the third internal space, the third chamber configured to be filled with fluid via the second port or drained to release all or a portion of the fluid.

[0162] Example 29 The medical device of Example 28, further comprising: (a) a fourth chamber configured to be filled with a shape-conforming material, wherein the first chamber is positioned downwardly relative to the fourth chamber and the fourth chamber is configured to contact the patient's head; (b) a fifth chamber configured to be filled with a shape-conforming material, wherein the second chamber is positioned downwardly relative to the fifth chamber and the fifth chamber is configured to contact the patient's head; and (c) a sixth chamber configured to be filled with a shape-conforming material, wherein the third chamber is positioned downwardly relative to the sixth chamber and the sixth chamber is configured to contact the patient's head.

[0163] Example 30 A medical device described in any one or more of Examples 28-29, wherein the outer chamber and the intermediate chamber are configured to be pressurized and depressurized in an alternating manner by alternating filling and draining cycles between the outer chamber and the intermediate chamber.

[0164] Example 31 The medical device of any one or more of Examples 28-30, wherein: (a) the skull clamp includes a pair of extension bars, each extension bar including an upper end portion configured to receive a stabilizing assembly configured to contact the patient's head and provide lateral support and stabilization to the patient's head; and (b) the stabilizing assembly received by each extension bar includes a pad having a seventh chamber, the seventh chamber including a fourth internal space configured to be filled with fluid, the seventh chamber including a third port configured to provide access to the fourth internal space, and the seventh chamber is further configured to be drained to release all or a portion of the fluid from the fourth internal space.

[0165] Example 32 The medical device of Example 31, wherein the fourth internal space of each extension bar pad is fluidly connected to other pads via a second connecting tube connecting the third ports of each extension bar pad to maintain equal pressure in the seventh chamber of each extension bar pad.

[0166] Example 33 A medical device described in any one or more of Examples 31-32, wherein the pad of each extension bar further includes an eighth chamber configured to be filled with a shape-conforming material, the eighth chamber being positioned adjacent to the seventh chamber, and the eighth chamber being configured to contact the patient's head.

[0167] Example 34 A medical device described in any one or more of Examples 31 to 33, wherein the pad is configured to provide a uniform distribution of contact pressure with the patient's head when the patient's head is laterally stabilized by the pad.

[0168] Example 35 The medical device of Example 34, wherein the contact pressure can be increased by filling the seventh chamber with fluid through the third port, and the contact pressure can be decreased by draining fluid from the seventh chamber, wherein decreasing the contact pressure allows for increased blood flow to the patient's head in the area where the pad is in contact with the patient's head.

[0169] Example 36 A medical device described in any one or more of Examples 31 to 35, further comprising a torque screw operably connected to one of the pads of the extension bar, and the contact pressure of the pads of each extension bar can be increased or decreased by actuating the torque screw.

[0170] Example 37 The medical device of any one or more of Examples 29-36, wherein the conformable material comprises a selected one of a particulate material, a gel, a foam, and combinations thereof.

[0171] Example 38 The medical device of any one or more of Examples 29-37, wherein more than one type of conformal material is employed by the medical device.

[0172] Example 39 The medical device of any one or more of Examples 28-38, wherein more than one type of fluid is used by the medical device.

[0173] Example 40 The medical device of any one or more of Examples 28-39, wherein the central head support further includes a base connected to the cushion, the base including a connecting member defining an axis extending transversely across the base, and the base is pivotable about the axis defined by the connecting member to pivotably adjust the orientation of the cushion.

[0174] Example 41 1. A medical device for supporting and stabilizing a patient's head during a medical procedure, the medical device configured to prevent slippage while supporting and stabilizing the patient's head, the medical device comprising: (a) a central head support configured to connect directly or indirectly via one or more intermediate structures to a surgical table, the central head support further configured to provide horizontal support to the patient's head; and (b) a cushion connected to the central head support and configured to contact the patient's head, the cushion comprising: (i) a first chamber including a first interior space; and (ii) a second chamber including a second interior space. (iii) a second chamber including an internal space, the first chamber and the second chamber being configured to be filled with a fluid, the first chamber and the second chamber being further configured to be drained to release all or a portion of the fluid; and (iv) a third chamber positioned between the first and second chambers such that the first and second chambers collectively define a pair of outer chambers, the third chamber defining an intermediate chamber, including a third internal space, configured to be filled with a fluid, and further configured to be drained to release all or a portion of the fluid.

[0175] Example 42 42. The medical device of Example 41, wherein the first chamber and the second chamber are configured to have the same pressure therein.

[0176] Example 43 A medical device described in any one or more of Examples 41-42, wherein the first internal space and the second internal space are fluidly connected by a first connecting tube extending therebetween so that the pressure in the first chamber and the second chamber is the same.

[0177] Example 44 44. The medical device of Example 43, wherein the first connecting tube extends through the third internal space.

[0178] Example 45 A medical device described in any one or more of Examples 41 to 44, wherein the first chamber includes a first port configured to provide access to the first internal space and the third chamber includes a second port configured to provide access to the third internal space.

[0179] Example 46 The medical device of any one or more of Examples 41 to 45, further comprising one or more pads configured to contact the patient's head and provide lateral stabilization to the patient's head, each of the one or more pads including a fourth chamber, the fourth chamber including a fourth internal space configured to be filled with fluid, and the fourth chamber further configured to be drained to release all or a portion of the fluid from the fourth internal space.

[0180] Example 47 The medical device of Example 46, wherein the one or more pads include two pads, and the fourth internal space of each pad is fluidly connected to the other pad via a connecting tube connecting the fourth internal space of each pad so as to maintain equal pressure in the fourth chamber of each pad.

[0181] Example 48 1. A system for reducing trauma to patient tissue due to prolonged reduced blood flow to an area of ​​tissue contacted by a stabilization device, the system comprising: (a) one or more chambers of the stabilization device, each of the one or more chambers including an interior space configured to be filled with fluid or drained to release all or a portion of the fluid; (b) a pump configured to supply fluid to the one or more chambers; (c) one or more pressure sensors in communication with each of the one or more chambers; (d) one or more valves in fluid communication with the pump and each of the one or more chambers, the one or more valves operable to allow fluid to flow from the pump to each of the one or more chambers; and (e) a control unit connected to the pump, the one or more pressure sensors, and the one or more valves, the control unit configured to operate the pump to supply fluid to the one or more chambers.

[0182] Example 49 The medical device of Example 48, wherein the one or more valves are further operable to exhaust fluid from each of the one or more chambers, and the control unit is further configured to operate the one or more valves to exhaust fluid from each of the one or more chambers.

[0183] Example 50 50. The medical device of any one or more of Examples 48-49, wherein the one or more chambers include two or more chambers, and the control unit performs an alternating drain and fill cycle, wherein the two or more chambers are drained and filled in an alternating manner, whereby at least one of the two or more chambers remains at its initial pressure and at least one of the two or more chambers is drained and its pressure is reduced.

[0184] Example 51 1. A system for reducing patient tissue trauma due to prolonged reduced blood flow to an area of ​​tissue contacted by a head support and stabilization device, the system comprising: (a) a head support and stabilization device cushion, the cushion including: (i) a first chamber including a first interior space; (ii) a second chamber, the second chamber including a second interior space, the first chamber and the second chamber configured to be filled with a fluid or drained to release all or a portion of the fluid; and (iii) a third chamber positioned between the first and second chambers such that the first and second chambers collectively define a pair of outer chambers, the third chamber defining an intermediate chamber, including a third interior space, and configured to be filled with a fluid or drained to release all or a portion of the fluid; and (b) a cushion for a head support and stabilization device, the cushion including: (i) a first chamber including a first interior space; (ii) a second chamber including a second interior space, the first chamber and the second chamber configured to be filled with a fluid or drained to release all or a portion of the fluid; (c) a first pressure sensor in communication with the first chamber; (d) a second pressure sensor in communication with the third chamber; (e) a first valve in fluid communication with the pump and the first chamber, the first valve operable to allow fluid to flow from the pump to the first chamber; (f) a second valve in fluid communication with the pump and the third chamber, the second valve operable to allow fluid to flow from the pump to the third chamber; and (g) a control unit connected to the pump, the first pressure sensor, the second pressure sensor, the first valve, and the second valve, the control unit configured to operate the pump to supply fluid to one or more of the first chamber, the second chamber, and the third chamber of the cushion.

[0185] Example 52 The medical device described in Example 51, wherein the first internal space and the second internal space are fluidly connected by a first connecting tube extending therebetween so that the pressure in the first chamber and the second chamber is the same, the first chamber includes a first port configured to provide access to the first internal space and the second internal space, and the first chamber and the second chamber are configured to be filled with fluid via the first port.

[0186] Example 53 The medical device of Example 52, wherein the first connecting tube extends through the third internal space, the third chamber includes a second port configured to provide access to the third internal space, and the third chamber is configured to be filled with fluid via the second port.

[0187] Example 54 A medical device described in any one or more of Examples 51 to 53, wherein the first pressure sensor is located in the first chamber and the second pressure sensor is located in the third chamber.

[0188] Example 55 A medical device described in any one or more of Examples 51 to 54, wherein the first valve is further operable to discharge fluid from the first chamber and the second valve is further operable to discharge fluid from the third chamber.

[0189] Example 56 The medical device of any one or more of Examples 51 to 55, wherein the control unit is further configured to operate the first valve and the second valve to exhaust fluid from one or more of the first chamber, the second chamber, and the third chamber of the cushion.

[0190] Example 57 A medical device described in any one or more of Examples 51 to 56, wherein the control unit executes an alternating drain and fill cycle, and the pair of outer chambers and the intermediate chamber are drained and filled in an alternating manner.

[0191] Example 58 The medical device of Example 57, wherein the control unit monitors the first pressure sensor and the second pressure sensor to ensure that a selected one or both of the first pressure in the pair of outer chambers and the second pressure in the intermediate chamber are at a predetermined set point before beginning the repeated alternating drain and fill cycles so that the patient's head maintains its position during the alternating drain and fill cycles.

[0192] Example 59 The medical device of example 1, further comprising a curved member configured to adjustably connect the arc member with the central head support.

[0193] Example 60 60. The medical device of Example 59, wherein the arc member includes a connecting member configured to adjustably connect with the curved member.

[0194] Example 61 A medical device described in any one or more of Examples 59 to 60, wherein the central head support includes a main body configured to adjustably connect with the curved member.

[0195] Example 62 The medical device according to any one or more of Examples 59 to 61, wherein the curved member is translatable relative to the body of the central head support.

[0196] Example 63 A medical device described in any one or more of Examples 59 to 62, wherein the arc member is rotatable relative to the curved member.

[0197] Example 64 A medical device described in any one or more of Examples 59 to 63, wherein the connecting member includes a slot, the slot of the connecting member is configured to receive an elongated curved portion of the curved member, and the connecting member is rotatable relative to the curved member by moving the elongated curved portion of the curved member relative to the slot.

[0198] Example 65 A medical device described in any one or more of Examples 59 to 64, wherein the body of the central head support includes a slot, the slot of the body is configured to receive a beam portion of the curved member, and the curved member is translatable relative to the body by moving the beam portion of the curved member relative to the slot.

[0199] Example 66 A medical device described in any one or more of Examples 59-65, wherein the curved member extends perpendicular to the arc member.

[0200] Example 67 A medical device as described in Example 59, wherein the central head support includes a body, the curved member is translatable relative to the body of the central head support, the arc member includes a connecting member, and the connecting member is rotatable relative to the curved member.

[0201] Example 68 The medical device of Example 67, wherein the connecting member includes a first slot, the first slot of the connecting member configured to receive an elongated curved portion of the curved member, the connecting member being rotatable relative to the curved member by moving the elongated curved portion of the curved member relative to the first slot, the body of the central head support includes a second slot, the second slot of the body configured to receive a beam portion of the curved member, and the curved member being translatable relative to the body by moving the beam portion of the curved member relative to the second slot.

[0202] Example 69 The medical device of Example 68, wherein each of the connecting member and the body is configured to selectively allow movement between the curved member and the respective first slot and second slot.

[0203] Example 70 The medical device of any one or more of Examples 59 to 69, wherein the central head support further includes a base connected to the cushion, the base defining an axis extending transversely across the base, and the base being pivotable about the axis to pivotably adjust the orientation of the cushion.

[0204] Example 71 The medical device of any one or more of Examples 41-47, further comprising a pair of extension bars attachable to the central head support, the pair of extension bars being adjustable relative to the central head support and to each other to allow for variation in the distance between each of the extension bars, each of the pair of extension bars including a base and an upright portion, and one or more pads configured to contact the patient's head and provide lateral stabilization to the patient's head are connectable to selected ones of the upright portions of the extension bars.

[0205] Example 72 A medical device described in any one or more of Examples 41-47 and 71, wherein at least one of the cushion and the one or more pads includes a fluid-filled chamber and a shape-conforming material chamber.

[0206] Example 73 1. A head stabilization device for stabilizing a patient's head, comprising: (a) a base assembly configured to support a patient's head resting thereon; (b) a pair of extension bars attachable to the base assembly, the pair of extension bars being adjustable relative to the base assembly and to each other to allow for variation in the distance between each of the extension bars, each of the pair of extension bars including a lateral extension portion and an upright extension portion; and (c) a pair of pads connectable respectively to one of the upright extension portions of each of the extension bars, the pair of pads being configured to contact the patient's head, each pad of the pair of pads including a fluid-filled chamber and a particulate material-filled chamber.

[0207] Example 74 The device of Example 73, further comprising a pair of slides connectable with the pair of extension bars, the slides configured to adjust longitudinally along the upright extension portions of the extension bars to position the pair of pads.

[0208] Example 75 An apparatus as described in any one or more of Examples 73-74, wherein each of the laterally extending portions of the extension bars includes a toothed region, and the base assembly includes a pair of release knobs, each one of which is mechanically coupled to a respective one of the pair of extension bars, and each of the release knobs includes a toothed mechanism configured to selectively engage with the toothed region of each of the laterally extending portions of the extension bars.

[0209] Example 76 An apparatus as described in any one or more of Examples 73 to 75, wherein the upright extension portion of the extension bar includes a trapezoidally shaped cross-section configured to receive one or more accessories.

[0210] Example 77 The device of any one or more of Examples 73-76, further comprising an indicating device including a force-dependent deformable body that indicates the force applied to the fluid-filled chamber.

[0211] Example 78 The device of any one or more of Examples 73-77, further comprising an indicating device including a gauge indicating the pressure applied to the fluid-filled chamber.

[0212] Example 79 The device of any one or more of Examples 73-78, further comprising a head support cushion connectable to the base assembly, the base assembly enabling adjustment of the head support cushion relative to the base assembly.

[0213] Example 80 1. A head stabilization device for stabilizing a patient's head, comprising: (a) a pair of extension bars extending from a base assembly; (b) a pair of ratchet mechanisms, each one of which is in mechanical communication with one of the pair of extension bars, the ratchet mechanisms configured to selectively adjust the pair of extension bars laterally relative to a central axis of the device; (c) a pair of pads, each one of which is connectable with one of the pair of extension bars, each one of which includes a first chamber filled with a fluid and a second chamber filled with a particulate material, the first chamber configured to abut against the second chamber such that the particulate material in the second chamber conforms to the patient's head; and (d) a pressure application and indication mechanism configured to provide fine adjustment of contact pressure between the pads and the patient's head.

[0214] Example 81 The device of example 80, wherein the pressure application and indication mechanism includes a torque screw.

[0215] Example 82 An apparatus as described in any one or more of Examples 80-81, wherein the pressure application and indicating mechanism includes a pump having a pressure gauge.

[0216] Example 83 A medical device for supporting and stabilizing a patient's head during a medical procedure is configured to connect directly or indirectly to a surgical table via one or more intermediate structures. The medical device includes (a) a central head support configured to provide horizontal support to the patient's head, and (b) a cushion connectable to the central head support. The cushion is configured to contact the patient's head and includes (i) a first chamber configured to receive a selected one of a first fluid and a first shape-conforming material. The device also includes (c) two or more lateral head supports, each of the two or more lateral head supports configured to provide lateral support to the patient's head. The device also includes (d) two or more pads configured to contact the patient's head, each of the two or more pads connectable to a respective one of the two or more lateral head supports. Each of the two or more pads includes (i) a second chamber configured to receive a second fluid, and (ii) a third chamber configured to receive a second shape-conforming material.

[0217] Example 84 The device of example 83, wherein the first fluid and the second fluid are identical.

[0218] Example 85 The device of any one or more of Examples 83-84, wherein the first shape-conforming material and the second shape-conforming material are the same.

[0219] Example 86 The device of any one or more of Examples 83 to 85, wherein the first fluid is air.

[0220] Example 87 The device of any one or more of Examples 83-86, wherein the first shape-conforming material and the second shape-conforming material are selected from the group consisting of particulate materials, gels, foams, and combinations thereof.

[0221] Example 88 The device of any one or more of Examples 83 to 87, wherein the central head support further includes a base to which the cushion is attached.

[0222] Example 89 The device of any one or more of Examples 83 to 88, wherein the first chamber comprises an internal space configured to be filled with a first fluid, the first chamber comprises a first port configured to provide access to the internal space, and the first chamber is further configured to be evacuated to release all or a portion of the first fluid from the internal space.

[0223] Example 90 The device of any one or more of Examples 83 to 89, wherein the second chamber of each of the two or more pads is adjacent to the third chamber, and the third chamber configured to receive the second shape-conforming material is configured to contact the patient's head.

[0224] Example 91 A device described in any one or more of Examples 83 to 90, wherein the first chamber of the cushion is configured to receive a first fluid, and the cushion further comprises a port selectively allowing the first fluid to flow into and out of the first chamber.

[0225] Example 92 The device of any one or more of Examples 83 to 91, further comprising a pump connectable to the first chamber of the cushion to selectively transfer fluid to the cushion.

[0226] Example 93 A medical device for supporting and stabilizing a patient's head during a medical procedure is configured to connect directly or indirectly to a surgical table via one or more intermediate structures. The medical device includes: (a) a central head support configured to provide horizontal support to the patient's head; (b) a cushion connectable with the central head support, the cushion configured to contact the patient's head and including a multi-chamber configuration; (c) two or more lateral head supports, each of the two or more lateral head supports configured to provide lateral support to the patient's head; and (d) two or more pads configured to contact the patient's head, each of the two or more pads connectable with a respective one of the two or more lateral head supports. Each of the two or more pads includes (i) a first chamber configured to receive a first fluid and (ii) a second chamber configured to receive a first conformable material.

[0227] Example 94 The cushion of Example 93, wherein the multi-chamber configuration of the cushion includes (a) a third chamber, (b) a fourth chamber, and (c) a fifth chamber located between the third chamber and the fourth chamber.

[0228] Example 95 The device of any one or more of Examples 93-94, further comprising a connecting member fluidly connecting the third chamber and the fourth chamber.

[0229] Example 96 The device of any one or more of Examples 93-95, further comprising: (d) a sixth chamber positioned on the third chamber; (e) a seventh chamber positioned on the fourth chamber; and (f) an eighth chamber positioned on the fifth chamber, wherein the sixth chamber, the seventh chamber, and the eighth chamber are configured to contact the patient's head.

[0230] Example 97 The device of Example 96, wherein the third chamber, the fourth chamber, and the fifth chamber are configured to receive a second fluid, and the sixth chamber, the seventh chamber, and the eighth chamber are configured to receive a second shape-conforming material.

[0231] Example 98 The device of any one or more of Examples 93 to 97, further comprising a connecting member fluidly connecting each of the first chambers of the two or more pads.

[0232] Example 99 A medical device for supporting and stabilizing a patient's head during a medical procedure includes (a) a central head support configured to provide horizontal support to the patient's head, and (b) a cushion connectable to the central head support and configured to contact the patient's head, the cushion including (i) a first chamber, (ii) a second chamber, the first chamber and the second chamber configured to be filled with a fluid, the first chamber and the second chamber further configured to be drained to release all or a portion of the fluid, and (iii) a third chamber positioned between the first chamber and the second chamber such that the first chamber and the second chamber collectively define a first pair of outer chambers, the third chamber defining a first intermediate chamber, configured to be filled with a fluid, and further configured to be drained to release all or a portion of the fluid. The medical device further includes (d) two or more lateral head supports, each of the two or more lateral head supports configured to provide lateral support to the patient's head, and (e) two or more pads configured to contact the patient's head, each of the two or more pads connectable with a respective one of the two or more lateral head supports, each of the two or more pads including a multi-chamber configuration.

[0233] Example 100 The device of Example 99, wherein the multi-chamber configuration of the two or more pads includes (a) a fourth chamber; (b) a fifth chamber, wherein the fourth chamber and the fifth chamber are configured to be filled with a fluid, and wherein the fourth chamber and the fifth chamber are further configured to be drained to release all or a portion of the fluid; and (c) a sixth chamber positioned between the fourth chamber and the fifth chamber such that the fourth chamber and the fifth chamber collectively define a second pair of outer chambers, wherein the sixth chamber defines a second intermediate chamber, and is configured to be filled with a fluid, and further configured to be drained to release all or a portion of the fluid.

[0234] Example 101 The device of any one or more of Examples 99-100, wherein a first pressure in a first pair of external chambers is configured to be equal and a second pressure in a second pair of external chambers is configured to be equal.

[0235] X. Other It should be understood that any one or more of the teachings, explanations, embodiments, examples, etc. described herein may be combined with any one or more of the other teachings, explanations, embodiments, examples, etc. described herein. Thus, the teachings, explanations, embodiments, examples, etc. described below should not be considered in isolation from one another. Various suitable ways in which the teachings herein may be combined will be apparent to those of skill in the art in view of the teachings herein. Such modifications and variations are intended to be included within the scope of the claims.

[0236] It should also be understood that the teachings herein may be readily combined with various teachings in U.S. Patent Application No. 62 / 662,855, entitled "Head Stabilization System and Method with Cassette Features," filed April 26, 2018, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference. Various suitable manners in which the teachings herein may be combined with the teachings of U.S. Patent Application No. 62 / 662,855 will be apparent to those skilled in the art.

[0237] Although various embodiments of the present invention have been shown and described, further adaptations of the methods and systems described herein can be achieved by appropriate modifications by those skilled in the art without departing from the scope of the present invention. Some of such potential modifications have been mentioned, while others will be apparent to those skilled in the art. For example, the examples, embodiments, geometries, materials, dimensions, proportions, steps, etc. discussed above are illustrative and not required. Thus, the scope of the present invention should be considered in terms of the following claims, and is understood not to be limited to the details of structure and operation shown and described in the specification and drawings.

Claims

1. A medical device (100, 200, 300, 400, 500, 900) for supporting and stabilizing a patient's head during a medical procedure, comprising: (a) a positioning assembly (140, 240) including a curved elongated portion (142, 242) configured to define a predetermined arc length extending generally concentrically about a patient's head when the patient's head is supported by the medical device (100, 200, 300, 400, 500, 900); (b) a head support (170) configured to be adjustably connected, directly or indirectly, to said positioning assembly (140, 240), the head support (170) is movable relative to the positioning assembly (140, 240) along the curved elongated portion (142, 242); the head support (170) is configured to move generally concentrically around the patient's head along the curved elongated portion (142, 242) to vary the position of the head support (170) relative to the patient's head; The head support portion (170) and A medical device (100, 200, 300, 400, 500, 900).

2. 2. The medical device (100, 200, 300, 400, 500, 900) of claim 1, wherein the head support (170) comprises a first extension bar (174) and a second extension bar (174); A medical instrument (100, 200, 300, 400, 500, 900), wherein the first and second extension bars (174) are selectively movable relative to one another.

3. 3. The medical instrument of claim 2, wherein the first and second extension bars are selectively movable relative to the positioning assembly.

4. The medical device (100, 200, 300, 400, 500, 900) of claim 2, further comprising: two or more stabilization assemblies (186) connectable to the head support (170); The medical device (100, 200, 300, 400, 500, 900), wherein the stabilization assembly (186, 430, 930) each includes one or more stabilization elements configured to contact the patient's head.

5. 2. The medical instrument of claim 1, wherein the positioning assembly includes a first portion adapted to receive the curved elongated portion; The medical device (100, 200, 300, 400, 500, 900), wherein the first portion (150) is selectively movable along the curved elongated portion (142, 242) and configured to connect with the head support portion (170).

6. 4. The medical instrument (100, 200, 300, 400, 500, 900) of claim 3, wherein the first and second extension bars (174) are each independently movable relative to the positioning assembly (140, 240) and each other, and independently lockable so as to be selectively fixed relative to the positioning assembly (140, 240).

7. 5. The medical instrument (100, 200, 300, 400, 500, 900) of claim 4, wherein each extension bar (174) has an upper end (182) configured to receive one of the stabilization assemblies (186, 430, 930).

8. 6. The medical instrument of claim 5, wherein the head support portion has a second portion configured to receive the first portion of the positioning assembly; A medical instrument (100, 200, 300, 400, 500, 900), wherein the first portion (150) is selectively translatable relative to the second portion (172).

9. 2. The medical instrument (100, 200, 300, 400, 500, 900) of claim 1, further comprising an actuator (190) in mechanical communication with said head support (170) and said positioning assembly (140, 240), The medical instrument (100, 200, 300, 400, 500, 900), wherein the actuator (190) is configured to selectively fix the position of the head support (170) relative to the positioning assembly (140, 240).

10. 2. The medical instrument of claim 1, wherein the positioning assembly includes a third portion connectable with the curved elongated portion; The medical device (100, 200, 300, 400, 500, 900), wherein the third portion (144, 244) is configured to selectively adjust the spacing of the curved elongated portion (142, 242) relative to the patient's head.

11. 8. The medical instrument of claim 7, wherein the upper end of each extension bar comprises a bore configured to receive one of one or more stabilization assemblies; A medical device (100, 200, 300, 400, 500, 900), wherein the bores (184) in each upper end (182) of each extension bar (174) are aligned with one another when each extension bar (174) is received by the second portion (172) of the head support portion (170).

12. The medical instrument (100, 200, 300, 400, 500, 900) of claim 11, wherein the bores (184) in each upper end (182) of each extension bar (174) define a common axis (A2) extending through a center of the bore (184).

13. 3. The medical instrument of claim 2, wherein each extension bar defines a longitudinal axis extending from its base along its upright portion; The medical device (100, 200, 300, 400, 500, 900), wherein the bore (184) of each elongation bar (174) is offset from the longitudinal axis defined by each elongation bar (174).

14. 3. The medical instrument (100, 200, 300, 400, 500, 900) of claim 2, wherein each extension bar (174) is interchangeable with the other extension bars (174).

15. 2. The medical device (100, 200, 300, 400, 500, 900) of claim 1, wherein movement of the head support portion (170) along the curved elongated portion (142, 242) of the positioning assembly (140, 240) changes the position of the head support portion (170) about the patient's longitudinal axis extending from the patient's head to the feet.

16. 2. The medical device (100, 200, 300, 400, 500, 900) of claim 1, wherein movement of the head support portion (170) along the curved elongated portion (142, 242) of the positioning assembly (140, 240) enables the head support portion (170) to be positioned diagonally sideways up to approximately 45 degrees on either side of the patient's head.

17. 10. The medical instrument (100, 200, 300, 400, 500, 900) of claim 1, wherein the head support portion (170) comprises a skull clamp.

18. 10. The medical instrument (100, 200, 300, 400, 500, 900) of claim 1, wherein the curved elongated portion (142, 242) defines an arc length of between about 200 millimeters and about 350 millimeters.

19. The medical device (100, 200, 300, 400, 500, 900) of claim 1, further comprising: a central head support (110, 310, 410) connectable to said positioning assembly (140, 240); The central head support (110, 310, 410) is configured to support the patient's head from below. Medical Equipment (100, 200, 300, 400, 500, 900).

20. 20. The medical device (100, 200, 300, 400, 500, 900) of claim 19, The central head support (110, 310, 410) has a slot (124, 324, 424); A medical device (100, 200, 300, 400, 500, 900), wherein the third portion of the positioning assembly (140, 240) is receivable within the slot (124, 324, 424) and is linearly and laterally adjustable relative to a first plane defined by the central head support (110, 310, 410) and extending below the patient's head when the patient's head is supported by the central head support (110, 310, 410), thereby changing the position of the positioning assembly (140, 240) relative to the central head support (110, 310, 410).

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