JP2019514464A - Patient positioning device - Google Patents

Abstract

The patient positioning device includes a flat sheet having a removably connected padded substrate mounted near the patient's arm. The padded substrate is wrapped around each arm of the patient to protect and lift the arms from the underlying platform or wheeled stretcher. Gaiters are also provided to protect the patient's legs. Padded substrates include splits that allow wires and cables to pass without tangling. An auxiliary sheet can be attached to the device for wrapping the patient in a scissor as the patient is rolled over. Shoulder restraints are provided under the patient's shoulders, wrapped around the shoulders and on the shoulders at the mitral muscles and at the shoulder cuffs, and padded for additional protection and safety It is fixed to a substrate. The device has a low friction bottom to facilitate transport and positioning.

Description

This application claims the benefit of US Provisional Application No. 62 / 326,116 filed Apr. 22, 2016 and US Application No. 15 / 386,643 filed Dec. 21, 2016. Claim the priority of

  The present invention relates generally to medical safety devices, and more particularly to a patient positioning device that includes a wrap engagement for a patient's shoulder that can be used for delivery and surgical procedures.

  Transport of patients from one support to another is a difficult procedure for hospital staff. Patients are constantly being moved in hospital settings. For example, patients entering a hospital with an ambulance are moved from a medical stretcher or ambulance wheeled stretcher to a hospital wheeled stretcher, a hospital fixed bed, a medical examination table or an operating table. Furthermore, patients already in the hospital also need to be moved. For example, a patient undergoing surgery may be moved from a hospital fixed bed to a hospital wheeled stretcher, and then to an operating table, and finally back to the hospital fixed bed. Every time the patient is moved, sliding or lateral movement of the patient from one support surface to another is required.

  The difficulty for the patient and hospital staff can be attributed to this lateral transport of the patient. Typically, collaboratively acting hospital staff are responsible for positioning and moving the patient to a new support surface by lifting, sliding, or dragging. This action may injure the patient if the patient accidentally slips off the support surface or if the patient is dropped. Also, the vein line attached to the patient, the cable of the monitor, and other components may become twisted, stuck, pulled from or around the patient, or dislodged. Furthermore, hospital staff may be injured by the act of lifting, sliding or dragging heavy patients.

  For most surgical procedures, the patient is placed on the operating table with the patient's arms placed on the side of the patient. The surgeon will typically stand close to the side of the patient, bow over the patient, and thus unintentionally lean on the patient's arm. Many procedures last for several hours, and the pressure on the surgeon's body against the patient's arm can cause injury to the patient's arm, wrist or hand. Similar pressure may be inadvertently applied to the patient's leg if the surgeon is operating at or near a lower site on the patient's body. Such pressure can also cause damage to the patient's buttocks, legs, knees, ankles, and feet.

  Furthermore, leaning on the patient's arms, hands, legs, or legs during extended surgery can result in pressure on muscle and nerve tissue as well as blood flow limitations. As a result, when the patient wakes up from the procedure, there may be sustained permanent damage to the muscles and / or nerves of the arms, hands, wrists, and / or lower limbs. Even if the surgeon does not rest on the patient's arm, the patient is at risk for nerve damage that can result from placing the arm or leg on the surface of a rigid operating room for an extended period of time .

  The prior art teaches various systems designed to move the patient without actually lifting it. These systems use air rollers, pull straps, and inflation as a means to drag the patient to and from the support surface. Many of these systems are intended for single patient / single use applications so that the device can be with the patient from the hospital bed to the table in the operating room. These existing systems suffer from the disadvantage that they do not protect the patient from external pressure and forces and are not well suited for safe patient transport in all circumstances.

  Patients in the hospital setting may be upset, excited or confused (for example, when waking up from anesthesia), unintentional self-harm such as eye rubbing or pulling out of the venous line It is known in the art that can cause. The prior art teaches arm protector devices used during surgery, but these designs are constructed of a rigid material and are typically secured to the platform or wheeled stretcher of the operating room and protected It is mainly used as a restraint rather than a device. Such devices keep the arms or legs in a restrained position away from the body and expose the patient to the potential for further injury if the position is adjusted with the arms or legs remaining restrained. Furthermore, such restraints do not provide adequate protection from external pressure and forces that would otherwise result in physical trauma and nerve damage.

  As a result of the above problems, the inventor of the present application has developed special patient positioning devices as described in US patent application Ser. Nos. 13 / 153,432 and 13 / 259,734. These patent applications are intended to position, protect and secure the patient on one support surface (e.g. the table in the operating room), for transport to another support surface, or in preparation for surgery. The patient positioning device provided in The positioning device includes a sheet having first and second flexible substrates coupled to the top surface of the sheet. The first and second flexible substrates can also be padded and configured to wrap around the patient's adjacent arms while creating a wrap-around engagement. The wrap engagement is configured to lift the patient's arm above the support surface, pads the arm to protect the arm from damage caused by the pressure applied to the arm during surgery or transport; Fix and raise. The positioning device can be lifted or slid from one support surface to another using various straps on the side of the device. Optionally, an inflatable support can be used with a device that assists in sliding or translating the device on which the patient is mounted. Additional embodiments include the use of a wrap-around engagement for the patient's leg to pad the patient's leg during transport or surgery, protect and secure the patient's leg. The present invention now illustrates the importance described in these two applications to provide an integrated patient positioning device useful in various environments to protect the patient and assist in patient positioning and delivery. Improve on these benefits and provide additional features and benefits.

  While other features and improvements of the patient positioning device that provide additional safety and protection for both the patient and staff are described herein, the improved convenience and systematization during patient transport, positioning, and procedures are also possible. provide. In particular, when the patient is placed in a Trendelenburg position (head down and lean), the shoulder restraint functions such that the restraint band distributes the patient's weight across the shoulder area, which It is particularly useful because it can significantly reduce the risk of brachial plexus injury, which is a common injury that occurs during prolonged use of the Trendelenburg position. These advantages are provided by the double restraint of the shoulder in the area of the shoulder plate and mitral muscle. Another advantage of shoulder restraints is the provision of passive heating (coating and warming) of the patient's shoulders and arms, especially when used in conjunction with any forced hot air features of the device substrate and device. To help maintain the patient's temperature.

  Accordingly, it is an effective solution to the above problems and drawbacks of the prior art that the present invention is directed. However, in view of the patient positioning device that has been existing at the time of the present invention, it has not been clear to the person skilled in the art in the relevant art how to fulfill the identified needs advantageously.

  The articles and / or techniques described herein may provide one or more of the following capabilities. Injuries of both patients and hospital staff during transition between one support surface and another can be reduced or avoided. A patient safe transition between support surfaces during transport can be provided. Safety means are provided for gripping the patient carrying device. In addition, to help prevent injury of hospital staff during such a transition of the patient, the patient positioning device provides a means for evenly distributing the weight that a person lifting the patient will support. The patient positioning device also protects the patient's arm from lying very long on the operating table, and damage if the surgeon or other hospital staff member leans on the patient's arm during surgery Protect the patient from injury during the surgical procedure by protecting the patient's arms from

  Examples of patient positioning devices are optional during safe lateral transport of the patient by safe lifting means to help prevent falling of the patient during transport or transition, and easy sliding of the patient onto and from the surface And means for limiting the weight that one person supports. A relatively inexpensive patient positioning device is provided to help ensure widespread use to help prevent injury to any party.

  Means are provided in the form of a buckle to secure the device to the operating table so that the patient does not slip. In addition to protecting the patient's arms from pressure damage during surgery, a means is provided to provide a choice of protection for either one or both arms. Means are provided for protecting the patient's arm during surgery, which means are adapted to be used with existing medical devices such as a patient handling system. Means are provided for attaching the patient-carrying device using a plurality of straps in the form of surface fasteners or buckles along both sides of the central portion to secure the sheet on the support surface. Means are provided to protect the patient's arm during surgery and to restrain the patient's arm on the patient's body. By providing multiple handles for lifting and sliding the patient, back injuries and other injuries of hospital staff due to lifting the patient may be prevented.

  In some embodiments, the present invention is a patient positioning device, wherein the device is a flat sheet having a top surface and having first and second side edges and first and second edges. A seat configured for positioning the patient on the seat, the patient supported by the upper surface with the first and second side edges in close proximity to the patient's arm; and the seat A flexible substrate and a second flexible substrate, each of the flexible substrates being bonded to each other, the flexible substrate comprising at least a portion of additional padding. The first and second substrates are wound around the patient's proximal arm while creating a wrap-around engagement, and the additional padding is provided under the patient's proximal arm. The wrap engagement protects the arm from damage caused by pressure applied to the arm during surgery or transport, and holds the arm in an elevated position above the flat sheet and underlying support surface; The raised position prevents damage to the arm from the planar sheet and the underlying support surface. The patient lying on the flat sheet can be lifted by the flat sheet or slid along with the flat sheet. The bottom surface of the device may comprise a low friction material. In some embodiments, a shoulder restraint band is provided, the shoulder restraint band comprising a U-shaped seat defining a restraint member, the shoulder restraint band being disposed under a patient's shoulder, Constraint members are disposed on and around the shoulders and releasably secured to their respective wrap-around engagements.

Fig. 5 is a flow chart of an embodiment of a surgical event according to the present invention. FIG. 7 depicts one embodiment of a patient positioning device. FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an embodiment of the device. FIG. 5 is an assembled view of one embodiment of the device, also showing straps, foot restraints, and an optional non-slip pad. FIG. 7 depicts an example of one embodiment of the device in the in-use position, with the patient's arm wrapped on a padded flexible substrate and the lower leg secured. FIG. 10 depicts one embodiment of a device with foam pads removably engaged. FIG. 10 is a bottom view of an embodiment of a device having an optional inflatable support. FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view of one embodiment of the device ready for patient acceptance and ready to be placed in the in-use position. FIG. 7 is an end view of an embodiment of the in-use position of the device prior to engaging the padded substrate. FIG. 17 depicts an embodiment of the device in the in-use mode, wherein the padded substrate is engaged to raise the arm upward a distance “E” from the support surface while securing the patient's arm. FIG. 7 depicts the engagement of an overlapping substrate wrapped around the patient's arm. FIG. 7 depicts a device in which the overwrap substrate is wrapped around the patient's arm and tucked under a mattress pad. FIG. 10 is a top view of an embodiment of a device having an optional inflatable support. FIG. 5 depicts an embodiment of a device having a padded substrate, an overwrap substrate, and a formed expanded member. FIG. 7 depicts an embodiment of a patient positioning device. FIG. 7 depicts an embodiment of a patient positioning device. FIG. 7 depicts an embodiment of a patient positioning device having a continuous attachment point. FIG. 10 depicts an embodiment of a patient positioning device having non-continuous attachment points. FIG. 10 depicts an embodiment of a patient positioning device having a perforated single-use gaiter. FIG. 6 depicts an embodiment of a patient positioning device on which a patient is supported. FIG. 10 depicts an embodiment of a patient positioning device having a gaiter winding engagement. FIG. 7 depicts an embodiment of a fastener for a patient positioning device. FIG. 1 depicts a patient in crushed stone position where the present invention is particularly useful. FIG. 6 depicts an embodiment of a patient positioning device with a window on a wrap-around engagement for the attached device and for viewing the patient's arm. FIG. 5 depicts one embodiment of the device of the present invention that includes forced hot air technology. FIG. 7 depicts another embodiment of the device of the present invention including forced hot air technology. FIG. 5 depicts one embodiment of the device of the present invention that includes an alternative design of a padded substrate. FIG. 7 depicts another embodiment of the device of the present invention that includes an alternative design of a padded substrate. FIG. 6 depicts one embodiment of a double sided adhesive pad attachment for a device of the present invention. FIG. 5 depicts one embodiment of a double sided adhesive pad being used with the device of the present invention in a horizontal position. FIG. 6 depicts an embodiment of a double sided adhesive pad being used with the device of the present invention in the Trendelenburg position. FIG. 7 depicts another embodiment of the patient positioning device of the present invention adapted for use when the patient is in the prone position. FIG. 10 depicts one embodiment of a supplemental sheet used in conjunction with the patient positioning device when the patient is in the prone position. FIG. 6A is a top view of a patient positioning device, an auxiliary sheet, and a patient configured for use when the patient is in a prone position. FIG. 10 is another top view of a patient positioning device, an auxiliary sheet, and a patient configured for use when the patient is in a prone position. FIG. 7A is a cross-sectional view of a patient positioning device, an auxiliary sheet, and a patient configured for use when the patient is in a prone position. FIG. 7 depicts another embodiment of the patient positioning device of the present invention configured with a pocket adapted to receive an axillary support. FIG. 10 is a top view of an embodiment of the patient positioning device of the present invention configured with a pocket adapted to receive an axillary support, on which the patient rests. FIG. 10 is a top view of an embodiment of the patient positioning device of the present invention configured with a pocket adapted to receive an axillary support and the patient in a lateral position. FIG. 7 depicts yet another embodiment of the present invention with various accessory features. FIG. 7 depicts a patient with padded substrates of the devices described herein wrapped around the spread arms. FIG. 5 is a top view of the front of a shoulder restraint accessory for a patient positioning device of the present invention. FIG. 5 is a top view of the back of a shoulder restraint attachment for a patient positioning device of the present invention. FIG. 7 depicts one embodiment of a shoulder restraint band used in conjunction with the patient positioning device of the present invention. FIG. 10 is a top view of another embodiment of a shoulder restraint band. FIG. 43 is a side perspective view of the shoulder restraint zone shown in FIG. 42. FIG. 6 shows the shoulder restraint band in use in a first step; FIG. 7 shows the shoulder restraint band in use in a second step; It is a figure which shows the shoulder restraint band in use in 3rd step. It is a figure which shows the shoulder restraint band in use in 4th step. FIG. 7 illustrates a shoulder restraint that is used to secure and hold a patient in a Trendelenburg position. It is the figure which drew the aspect of the body pad of this invention. FIG. 45B depicts the body pad of FIG. 45A being used on an exemplary patient.

  When undergoing surgery, the patient goes through a number of stages. FIG. 1 is a flowchart 100 of possible surgical events. The process starts in the preoperative area. At step 102, the patient waits here before entering the operating room for surgery. The patient is then transported into the operating room and the preintroduction phase begins at step 104. The patient is fitted with any necessary monitors such as blood pressure cuffs, electrocardiograph (EKG) electrodes, pulse oximeters, intravenous drip (IV), etc. At step 106, or induction, the patient is given surgical anesthesia.

  At step 108, the patient is positioned for surgery. Depending on the type of surgery, the patient may be positioned in a prone, supine, crushed, or lateral position. During this time, the patient's body part is often exposed to the usually cold ambient air in the operating room. Loss of body heat is an important issue during the surgical process, and the patient's body can become hypothermic.

  Hypothermia can occur during the surgical process. Under anesthesia, the behavioral response to cold may be lost, and the hypothalamic and autonomic nervous system may be impaired. Anesthetics also cause peripheral vasodilation, causing blood volume redistribution with associated heat loss, leading to a marked decrease in core body temperature. In addition to this, patients may be naked during their surgery to further accelerate heat loss, or may have already cooled during the period of inactivity awaiting surgery. Due to conventional fasting for up to 6 to 8 hours prior to general anesthesia, patients may also be relatively dry and have low perfusion, so their heat distribution due to blood circulation is further It gets lost. Finally, steps may be taken to avoid it, but unheated anesthetic gas and intravenous drip injection may also increase the reduction in core body temperature.

  At step 110, the patient is prepared for surgery. This involves preparing a surgical incision in the patient's skin area by using a disinfectant to help reduce the infection. Additional heat loss from the patient's body can occur. Next, draping to the patient is performed at step 112. During this stage, the patient's incision area is isolated and exposed for surgery while the rest of the body is typically covered by sterile drapes. These sterile drapes are usually made of a thin polypropylene material that minimizes heat loss, but its main purpose is to provide a sterile environment to reduce infection during surgery.

  The operation starts at step 114. Depending on the procedure, the surgery may be short or last for several hours. Again, additional heat loss from the patient's body can occur. The operation ends at step 116.

  Cleaning starts in step 118. The patient, sheets, covers, and utensils are cleaned to remove any fluid contamination. At step 120, the patient begins to wake up from anesthesia and may be awakened by a medical person. The patient is then moved to a transport wheeled stretcher at step 122 and transported to the recovery room and enters the post-operative area. At step 124, the patient recovers further from anesthesia.

  As will be apparent, patients undergoing surgery or other procedures will be moved, positioned, repositioned, and transported many times. Thus, the present invention provides a patient positioning device that can be used to move and lift a patient from one surface to another in a hospital setting. An example of such a device adapted for easy lifting of the patient to and from the operating table is described, which lifts the patient and protects the patient's arms and legs during surgery and transport Provides ease of use for.

  2 and 3 illustrate one embodiment of a patient positioning device 10 of the present invention. The top surface 24 is located opposite the bottom surface 26. The top surface 24 and the bottom surface 26 are formed of a flexible fabric sheet and consist of a central portion 12, an overhanging portion 11, an outer edge 22 of the central portion, and an outer edge 15 of the overhanging portion. The central portion 12 has a rectangular geometric shape and is adapted to a length and width that can accommodate human size and shape. Furthermore, the central portion 12 is sized to be placed on a table of operating rooms, for example, varying between 20 and 24 inches, or a stretcher or wheeled stretcher having a width of, for example, 22 to 27 inches . The overhanging portion 11 extends from the side of the central portion 12. These overhangs can be tucked under a mattress or pad on a wheeled stretcher or pedestal and provide the device 10 with a means to reduce bacteria and cost by acting as a bed sheet substitute. The outer edge 22 of the central portion is the attachment point for the various components described below.

  A handle 14 is attached to the outer edge 15 of the overhanging portion to allow secure gripping with the device when used to lift or pull the device after securing the patient. The number and orientation of the handles 14 is not limited as shown, but is simplified for illustrative purposes only.

  The top surface 24 and the bottom surface 26 can be of different materials that are each adapted for a specific purpose. The upper surface 24 can be made of a woven or woven cloth reinforced paper, or another woven cloth or knit cloth adapted for the task of supporting a patient thereon. The bottom surface 26 of the device may have a surface configured to have low friction when the device 10 carrying a patient is slid during transition. The bottom surface 26 is constructed of a material that is slippery or has a low coefficient of friction to allow the medical staff a means to easily slide the patient into and out of the support surface. An example of the upper surface 24 is the surface of a paper cloth or similar woven cloth or knit cloth. The bottom surface to be exposed may be a PTFE impregnated or coated fabric, a spunbond fabric or other fabric having a slippery surface when woven or formed, or a woven or knitted ripstop from woven nylon or polyester It may be formed of any low friction material as envisioned by those skilled in the art, including but not limited to one or a combination of materials from the group comprising fabrics, such as materials or materials based on microfibers. The slippery bottom surface 26 can be sewn or laminated or coated to the device 10 or to the opposite side of the material forming the top surface 24 of the central portion 12.

  With reference to FIG. 3, the instrument strap 23 and the pocket 21 are described in detail. The instrument strap 23 is fastened at one end to the upper surface 24 and includes a hook and loop fastener. Directly below the device strap 23 and coupled to the top surface 24 is a group 42 of surface fasteners. The equipment strap 23 is fastened to the group 42. The pocket 21 is coupled to the top surface with one open end. The instrument strap 23 and the pocket 21 can both be used to secure medical devices, infusion tubes, catheter tubes, and / or parts of medical devices that are directly attached to the patient.

  Figures 2 and 3 also show two substantially flat padded substrates 16 disengaged. These padded substrates 16 are flexible and may be permanently fastened to the central portion 12 by sewing with a durable thread or another suitable means, or Velcro®-like surface fasteners Or other such removable fasteners have an inner edge 17 that can be temporarily fastened. In one embodiment, because the padded substrates 16 are temporarily removed from the device 10, they can also be used with existing patient delivery devices described in the prior art that lack protection of the patient's arm.

  The padded substrate 16 is the upper end of the central area of the central portion 12 at a distance comparable to the distance of the human arm between the upper arm and the hand, when placed on the side, to the human head Is positioned relative to Preferably, the padded substrate 16 has a layer of embedded padding or is engaged such that means are provided to pad the arm when engaged around the patient's arm Ru. This protects the patient's arm from the platform or any pressure applied by the surgeon. The padded substrate 16 is also configured to engage around the patient's arm and hold the arm against the patient's body and slightly elevated from the underlying platform or support surface. This helps to prevent damage to the patient's arm when the patient's arm is supported on a solid support for a long duration by providing a gap between the base and the arm.

  Referring to FIG. 4, a padded substrate 16 is shown having an inner edge 17 attached to the central portion 12. The back of the padded substrate 16 has a strip of surface fasteners for fastening. The strap 40 is also attached at one end to the central portion 12 at the outer edge 22 of the central portion. The bottom side of the strap 40 has a hook-and-loop fastener for securing to the padded substrate 16 when the padded substrate 16 is wrapped around the patient's arm.

  Optionally, device 10 can use a permanent or releasably engageable non-slip pad 28. The non-slip pad 28 will provide a means to prevent slippage when the patient is positioned at an angle. Further, in one embodiment, a foot fixing restraining device 13 is provided. The foot restraint 13 may be coupled to the top surface 24, wrapped around the patient's leg, and held by the hook and loop fastener. This foot restraint 13 allows the lower leg to be positioned and fixed while lifting or sliding the device 10.

  In use, padded substrate 16 is used to wrap and support the patient's arms as the patient lies on the surface of central portion 12. The wrapping of this arm by the padded substrate 16 provides protection from movement of the patient's arm out of the platform area during work and with the underlying platform while it is placed on the operating table. Provides protection from potential pressure damage from contact or contact with a surgeon. FIG. 5 shows the device 10 with the patient 20 positioned with both arms wrapped within the padded substrate 16. The patient 20 is positioned on the patient positioning device 10 and the strap 40 holds the flexible padded substrate 16 in a configuration wrapped around the patient's arm, close to the patient's body and away from the surgeon It can be used to keep the arm in place. The patient's arm can be held in this position by using the strap 40 or the overlap mode of the device (described below, FIGS. 6 and 13). Minimal movement of the arm is permitted while the arm is in the wrapping engagement. The foot locking restraint 13 is also engaged. The present invention positions and secures the patient 20 while preventing injury of the patient and hospital staff when dragging the device 10 by the handle 14 during transport. Furthermore, the patient can now be more easily transported between one support surface and another, for example between a wheeled stretcher and an operating table. A handle 14 engaged around the periphery of the overhanging portion 11 provides the staff with a secure grip while sliding or lifting the patient from one surface to another.

  In an exemplary embodiment of the invention, an overlap system may be used to further secure and raise the patient's arm. The overlap system uses a flexible rectangular overlap substrate 18 that is oriented longitudinally across the width of the central portion 12 and attached to the center line 19, as depicted in FIGS. The bottom surface of the overwrap substrate 18 has a strip 44 of hook-and-loop fasteners that snap to hook-and-loop fasteners on the padded substrate 16 when engaged. Overlap substrate 18 provides an aid to secure the patient's arm, and as noted, and as shown in FIGS. 11 and 12, overwrap substrate 18 is under a pad or mattress. It gets tough.

  FIG. 6 illustrates the device 10 with the optional soft foam pad 84 releasably engaged on the top surface 24. This foam pad 84 has a strategy in the buttock area to prevent wrinkles that may occur if the patient remains in the same position for extended periods of time, such as during extended surgery, or if the patient is bedridden in a hospital bed Placed on the The engagement may be by a re-stickable adhesive or hook-like fabric and loop-like fabric, or by other means for removable engagement.

  FIG. 7 shows a view of the bottom 26 of the device 10. Belts 29 have connectors 33 attached to each end and are coupled to handle 14. The belt 29 and the connector 33 secure the device 10 to a support surface, such as an operating table or bed. The number and orientation of the belts 29 and connectors 33 are not limited as shown, but are simplified for illustrative purposes only.

  The bottom surface 26 is comprised of a slippery fabric, such as a vinyl or Teflon® coated fabric, or another fabric having a low coefficient of friction. The slippery fabric provides a means to assist in sliding the patient 20 during the transition. Also, a dotted outline is drawn indicating the position of the optional inflatable support 30. The inflatable support 30 is sandwiched between the top surface 24 and the bottom surface 26 to allow for easier sliding of the patient 20 when inflated.

  FIG. 8 shows a cross-sectional view of the device 10 ready to receive the patient 20 and ready to be placed in the in-use position, as noted in the following figures, FIGS. FIG. 9 depicts an end view of the in-use position of an example of the device 10 prior to engaging the padded arm restraint provided by the padded substrate 16. In use, the padded substrate 16 is wrapped around the arm of the patient 20 and subsequently secured by straps 40 with surface fasteners or other engagement means.

  Referring to FIG. 10, the padded substrate 16 is secured by straps 40 that wrap the patient's arms and reasonably hold the patient's arms near the body. In addition, the arms are padded and protected from being injured by lying on the support surface for a very long time or by the pressure of the surgeon's weight. Also, with the padded substrate 16 so engaged, it provides a means to raise the arm above the support surface by a distance "E". This helps to prevent nerve damage and tissue damage caused by having the arm on the surface for a very long time during surgery. 11-12 show the engagement of the overwrap substrate 18 which can be wrapped around the patient's arm and tucked under a pad or mattress of a wheeled stretcher or operating table. This provides for safe positioning of the patient for surgery or delivery. FIG. 13 depicts another top view of one embodiment of the device, and FIG. 14 shows the device with the padded substrate, the overlap substrate in the disengaged position.

  FIG. 15 depicts another embodiment of a patient positioning device 10. The top surface 24 is located opposite the bottom surface 26. The top surface 24 and the bottom surface 26 are formed of a flexible fabric sheet. The central portion has a rectangular geometric shape and is adapted to a length and width that can accommodate human size and shape. A plurality of handles 14 are coupled to the outer edge of the sheet, which are used to lift, pull or move the device with the patient supported by the upper surface and fixed. Enable secure gripping on the device. The number and orientation of the handles 14 is not limited as shown, but is simplified for illustrative purposes only. The exposed bottom surface 26 may be a PTFE impregnated or coated fabric, a spunbond fabric or other fabric having a slippery surface when woven or formed, or a lip woven or knitted from woven nylon or polyester It may be formed of any low friction material as contemplated by one of ordinary skill in the art including, but not limited to, one or a combination of materials from the group comprising fabrics such as top materials or microfiber based materials. The slippery bottom surface 26 can be sewn or laminated or coated to the device 10 or to the opposite side of the material forming the top surface 24.

  Figure 15 also has a layer of embedded padding or engaged to be provided with means for padding the arm when engaged around the patient's arm 2 shows two padded substrates 16 unwound. This protects the patient's arm from the platform or any pressure applied by the surgeon. The padded substrate 16 is also configured to engage around the patient's arm and hold the arm against the patient's body and slightly elevated from the underlying platform or support surface. This helps to prevent damage to the patient's arm when the patient's arm is supported on a solid support for a long duration by providing a gap between the base and the arm.

  The back of the padded substrate 16 has a strip of surface fasteners for fastening. The straps 40 have surface fasteners for securing to the padded substrate 16 when the padded substrate 16 is wrapped around the patient's arm. In an exemplary embodiment of the invention, an overlap system may be used to further secure and raise the patient's arm. The overlap system uses a flexible rectangular overlap substrate 18 that is longitudinally oriented across the width of the upper surface 24 and attached to the upper surface 24. The bottom surface of the overwrap substrate 18 has a strip of hook-and-loop fasteners that snap to hook-and-loop fasteners on the padded substrate 16 when engaged. Overlap substrate 18 provides an aid to secure the patient's arm. The functionality here is substantially as shown and described above in FIGS. Additionally, in some embodiments, device 10 includes first and second flexible substrates that form gaiters 52 and gaiters 54.

  FIG. 16A depicts another embodiment of a patient positioning device. This embodiment is simpler than the embodiment of FIG. 15 and focuses on the legs. The flat sheet has first and second side edges and a top surface 24. The seat is configured to position the patient on the seat and the patient is supported by the upper surface 24 with the first and second side edges in close proximity to the patient's leg. The first and second flexible substrates, which can be wound around the patient's adjacent legs, thus creating a wound engagement, are detailed as gaiters 52 and gaiters 54. These wrap-around engagement of the legs prevents heat loss before, during, after or during operation and protects against pressure damage.

  The gaiter 52 is mostly covered by the gaiter 54 until it is engaged with the patient's leg. For example, more than 50%, 60%, 70%, 75%, 80%, 90%, or 95% of the gaiter 52 can be covered by the gaiter 54. Referring to FIGS. 15 and 16A, in one embodiment, a patient is positioned on top surface 24 to use a patient positioning device. The optional padded substrate 16 is configured to engage around the patient's arm and hold the patient's arm slightly elevated with respect to the patient's body and from the underlying platform or support surface. Ru. This helps to prevent damage to the patient's arm when the patient's arm is supported on a solid support for a long duration by providing a gap between the base and the arm. The padded substrate 16 is wrapped around the patient's arm and secured with the surface fastener strips and straps, as described above.

  The gaiter 52 and the gaiter 54 are configured to engage around the patient's legs, not only to protect the patient but also to prevent heat loss. When the patient is positioned on the upper surface 24, the user grasps the free end 64 of the gaiter 54 (see FIG. 16A), lifts it, and then continues to approach the adjacent legs, for example, over the adjacent legs. Under this, the flexible substrate will be wound to create a wound engagement (see FIG. 17). While fasteners such as hooks of Velcro (e.g. Velcro) may be provided on the back of gaiter 52 and gaiter 54 at their respective free ends 62 and 64 (see FIG. 3A), the Velcro (A loop from, for example, Velcro.RTM.) May be provided at the outer edges 58 and 60 (see FIG. 3A) that are attached to the front side of the gaiter 52 and the gaiter 54, respectively.

  Referring to FIG. 16A, the lower portion of top surface 24 is the mounting area for gaiter 52 and gaiter 54. These are generally planar and integral with the sheet, with the upper edge 66 of the gaiter 52 and gaiter 54 attached to the upper surface 24. The gaiter 52 is also attached to the outer edge 58 of the top surface 24, while the gaiter 54 is attached to the outer edge 60 of the upper surface 24. These attachment areas 68 can be continuous along the entire outer edge as shown in FIG. 16B or discontinuous as shown in FIG. 16C. Also, the attachment can be a permanent attachment, such as by sewing, or it can be a temporary attachment, such as with Velcro (for example, Velcro®), which allows for adjustability. . In one embodiment, gaiters 52 and 54 may be constructed of disposable material containing perforations 70. Thus, the gaiter can be easily, simply and completely removed from the top surface 24 and discarded. FIG. 16D shows this embodiment.

  FIG. 17 shows an embodiment of the present invention on which the patient is supported. The patient positioning device 10 is utilized to position, protect and secure the patient on the support surface for transport to another support surface or in preparation for surgery. In different embodiments, it can function as normal bed sheets, surgical bed sheets, gaiters, or any combination. The gaiter 52 and the gaiter 54 may be engaged after the patient is positioned and secured on the seat to utilize the gaiter features. To do this, the unattached edge, ie the free end 64 of the gaiter 54 is lifted and wound around the adjacent leg, ie over the adjacent leg and subsequently under the adjacent leg. It is put on and kept on. The gaiter 52 is constructed in the same manner except that the free end 62 of the gaiter 52 is used.

  FIG. 18 shows another embodiment of a patient positioning device with gaiter wrap engagement. In this embodiment, the gaiter 52 and the gaiter 54 are removably fitted to the patient's leg. Thus, if the gaiter 52 and the gaiter 54 are engaged, any necessary medical device such as a leg compression device may be used.

  Referring to FIG. 19, to fasten gaiters 52 and 54, fasteners 56 such as hooks from large or small hook-and-loop fasteners (e.g. Velcro.RTM.) Are placed on the back of the gaiters 52 and 54. While provided at the respective free ends 62 and 64, loops from hook and loop fasteners (eg, Velcro®) are provided at the outer edges 58 and 60 attached to the front side of the gaiter 52 and the gaiter 54 respectively. Fasteners 56 are contactable when the respective gaiters 52 and 54 are in rolling engagement with their respective legs. FIG. 19 depicts an embodiment of a fastener for a patient positioning device showing a plurality of fasteners. The number and orientation of fasteners 56 is not limited as shown, but is simplified for illustrative purposes only. In one embodiment, the fasteners 56 are non-continuous. This makes it possible to contact the patient's leg for medical devices such as cables and tubes or for monitoring.

  The use of these gaiters 52 and 54 is used when the patient is in a crushed position (i.e., when the leg is placed on the footplate, see FIG. 20), thus involving the pelvis and lower abdomen, for example, the large intestine Or actually useful during urogenital surgery. In some embodiments, the gaiter 52 and the gaiter 54 may be padded to protect against pressure damage that may be caused by a medical device such as a footplate. Several studies have found a significant relationship between long-term surgical procedures and cardiovascular complications while the patient is in the crushed position. This situation occurs when increased tissue pressure in a limited tissue space impairs the circulation and function of the contents of the space. Nerve damage to the femoral or peroneal nerve may also occur. Padding may be embedded or engaged only in certain areas, such as the entire gaiter 52 and gaiter 54, or areas that contact the knee joint, calf and / or ankle.

  FIG. 21 shows an optional window 72 on padded substrate 16. The window 72 in the padded substrate 16 wrapped around the patient's arm is made for the purpose of passing a medical line such as blood pressure cuff tubing, a pulse oximeter cable, and / or a vein line. These windows are also used to view the patient's arm without having to unroll padded substrate 16 from the patient's arm. In one embodiment, window 72 is an opening in padded substrate 16. In another embodiment, the window 72 comprises a flap of material permanently attached at one side. In yet another embodiment, the window 72 consists of a flap of material temporarily attached to one or more sides, for example by Velcro® on a hook and loop fastener. The number, configuration, and location of the windows 72 can vary, and the numbers shown in FIG. 21 are for illustrative purposes.

  It will be appreciated that, in some embodiments, the initial position of the gaiter 52 and the gaiter 54 prior to wrap engagement is flat relative to the top surface 24 as shown in FIG. Referring again to FIG. 15, the position of the padded substrate 16 for the patient's arm with the gaiter 52 and gaiter 54 for the patient's leg may use the attachment area 68, for example, Velcro on the top surface 24 By placing (registered trademark), it may be adjustable. This allows the device to accommodate a wide range of different patient sizes. Also, the padded substrate 16 for the patient's arm may have perforations 74 therein. This allows the padded substrates 16 to be easily, conveniently and completely removed from the upper surface 24 for disposal if they need to be soiled or otherwise disposed of .

  In some embodiments, forced hot air techniques may be utilized with the present invention. This forced warm air feature can be utilized in the upper portion of the device to provide warm air to the upper extremity. In another embodiment, it can be used for the lower portion of the patient positioning device when configured with the gaiter 52 and the gaiter 54. In some embodiments, forced hot air features may be provided on both the upper and lower portions of the device. Referring to FIGS. 22-23, a device 10 having forced hot air capability is shown. In some embodiments, the upper surface 24 and the lower surface 26 define a flexible air bladder type sheet that includes an interior air configured to receive forced warm air. In some embodiments, one or more hot air inlets 80 are provided. As shown in FIG. 22, the hot air inlet 80 is provided not only to the upper portion of the device 10 but also to the lower portion. The inlet 80 is configured to receive hoses or tubes from a forced air blower, such as a compressor that provides a source of hot air. The top surface 24 of the device 10 includes a plurality of openings 81 through which the warm air passes. The air flows into the inlet 80 and out through the opening 81, thus providing warm air around the patient's whole body or part, as shown in FIG. In warm air applications, the bottom layer 26 is made of a low friction nylon material or similar material and is air tight and waterproof. Upper layer 24 is preferably made of a polypropylene material or similar material that is comfortable to the patient. Throughout the upper layer, a plurality of very small holes 81 are made to release warm air and contact the patient's skin as a means of warming the patient during surgery or maintaining the patient's temperature.

  In other embodiments, openings 81 may be provided in gaiters 52 and 54 to allow forced warm air to pass from the openings to the patient's skin. Thus, the use of forced warm air can either warm the patient or maintain the body temperature and thus help to prevent hypothermia. Also, because the gaiters 52 and 54 can provide a warming function, blankets may no longer be necessary when the device is in use.

  Referring to FIGS. 24 and 25, in some embodiments, the padded substrate 16 is configured to closely fit the patient's arms of various sizes and shapes. FIG. 24 shows the device 10 with the patient positioned with both arms above the padded substrate 16, with the substrate disengaged. In some embodiments, the padded substrate 16 includes an additional padded portion 161, preferably aligned with the gravity dependent portion of the patient's arm. That is, the additional padded portion 161 is preferably disposed between the arm and the underlying support structure just below the patient's arm. Referring to FIG. 25, the patient is positioned on the patient positioning device, and the strap holds the flexible padded substrate 16 in a configuration wrapped around the patient's arm, with the arm near their body And it can be used to keep away from the surgeon. The patient's arm can be held in this position by using the strap or device overlap mode (see, above, FIGS. 6 and 14). While the arm is in rolling engagement using two straps 40, minimal movement of the arm is allowed. Furthermore, the wrap engagement is configured to raise one or both arms above the support surface to prevent pressure injuries and nerve injuries.

  Referring again to FIGS. 24 and 25, a split 401 dividing at least a portion of the substrate is provided to traverse across the substrate 16 to further conform the substrate 16 to arms of various sizes and shapes. Be done. In some embodiments, this split 401 allows the padded substrate 16 to be snugly fitted around the thicker arms or arms that may already be in the protective support, splint, or cast. . In addition, crevices 401 of padded substrate 16 may include wires, cables, and I.I. V. Allows wiring of lines. In some embodiments, wires, cables, and I. V. A line can extend from the patient's hand / arm and be fixed / assembled between the padded substrate 16 and the overwrap substrate 18. This includes wires, cables, and I.I. V. It will prevent the line from "drooping" to the side of the operating table and being removed or tangled. The split 401 in combination with the additional padded portion 161 provides additional comfort and safety for both the patient and the hospital staff.

  Often the operating table is placed from a flat position in the Trendelenburg position (head) so that the surgeon optimizes the operating field to perform the necessary surgery, for example during surgery of the prostate, colon, or uterus / ovary, for example. Needs to be changed to Thus, referring to FIGS. 26-28, a double sided adhesive pad 841 is provided as an accessory to the patient positioning device 10, the pad 841 from a flat position to a Trendelenburg position (head low) and vice versa The patient positioning device 10 is used in conjunction with the patient positioning device 10 to help secure the patient during surgery on the support surface to reduce the risk of slipping when changing position. In some embodiments, double-sided adhesive pad 841 comprises a generally planar sheet of adhesive material having a first adhesive surface 842 and a second adhesive surface 843. In some embodiments, a removable backing layer 844 is provided that protects the adhesive during storage. As shown in FIG. 27, double-sided adhesive pad 841 is disposed between the patient 845 and the support surface 846. In some embodiments, double-sided adhesive pads 841 are disposed between the patient's back and the patient positioning device 10 so that they are a single unit. The unit can then be secured to the operating table using the belt 29 and connector 33 shown in FIG. Thus, the adhesive pad 841 prevents the patient from slipping on the device 10 as the operating table is changed from the flat position (0 degrees) to the Trendelenburg position (head low) shown in FIG. .

  In yet another embodiment of the present invention, additional features are provided to fix and protect patients that may be in prone or prone position. Referring to FIGS. 29-33, a modified patient positioning device 10 is provided, which is a padded substrate 16 that forms a rolling engagement around the patient's arm for protection and lift, and It includes an overwrapped substrate 18 for further fixation and protection of the patient. One or more handles 14 are attached to the corners of the device 10. Further included is one or more buckles 900 that may be provided near the corner handle of the device 10. Along with the device 10, an auxiliary sheet 901 is shown in FIG. The auxiliary sheet 901 is a substantially planar sheet, which in some embodiments conforms to the dimensions of the patient positioning device 10. The auxiliary sheet 901 includes one or more handles 14 and one or more buckles 900, both disposed at the corners of the sheet 901. The auxiliary seat buckle 900 is provided and configured to engage the buckle 900 of the device 10. In some embodiments, the buckle 900 of the backing sheet 901 has a male mating part while the buckle 900 of the device 10 has a female mating part to enable their removable engagement . In another embodiment, the buckles 900 of the backing sheet 900 have female mating parts and those of the device 10 have male mating parts. Referring to FIG. 31, the patient 902 is disposed with his back on a support sheet and the device 10 disposed on his thorax. Optionally, the patient's arm may be secured by padded substrate 16 and overlay substrate 18 as described above. Subsequently, the auxiliary sheet 901 is fixed to the device 10 by the buckle engagement 900/900 shown in FIG. This configuration forms a "chew" around the patient as shown in FIG. 32, and the patient holds the arm between the device 10 and the auxiliary sheet 901 with the arm fixed by the winding engagement of the present invention. It is pinched by This arrangement provides significant protection and fixation for patients who must be treated in prone position, as it attracts the arms, raises them, and then envelops the whole body, during movement and repositioning of the patient. It is a safe trap that prevents the inset of the positioning device 10 from being released. This will help to secure all arms / legs, IV access, Foley catheters, and any other fixtures together prior to a change of positioning from supine to prone or vice versa .

  This "wrapping" provides a true "log-rolling" technique that not only facilitates the process of positioning changes, but also prevents injury to the anesthetized patient and the surgical team. For example, a supine patient has already been placed on an auxiliary seat 901 on a wheeled stretcher, as shown in FIG. The device 10 is then placed on the top of the patient, aligning the buckles 900 and securing them together, as shown in FIG. The buckles 900 can have adjustable straps, which can be subsequently pulled for a snug fit. Device 10 and auxiliary sheet 901 may be further secured using Velcro® fixtures 903. After checking all the fixtures, i.e. IV access, Foley catheter, the patient is ready to be repositioned to the prone position. A wheeled stretcher with an anesthetized patient is now placed alongside the operating table for repositioning. Each person in the team is assigned a specific task to avoid injury to the anesthetized patient, ie, the anesthesiologist has protection of the patient's respiratory tract, face and neck to the surgeon. The patient's rotation during patient protection protects the patient's multiple attachments, such as IV access, EKG, blood pressure measurement cuffs / tubes, Foley catheter, etc., as well as legs for nurses The entire surgical team must be exposed to this repositioning procedure as assistance in lifting the patient is assigned. Once all the teams are in place for patient rotation, communication is now crucial. Anesthesiologist will alert and count up to three. At this time, the entire team will rotate the patient together at the same time.

  After rotation of the patient, the auxiliary sheet 901 can now be removed from the device 10 by loosening the buckle 900 and the Velcro® fitting 903. At this time, it is important to ensure that the pressure on the patient's vital tissues, such as the eyes, nose, abdomen (for breathing) and genitals, is avoided. The breathing tube should also be checked and fixed again. All areas to be pressurized must be properly padded. At this point, the padded substrate 16 may be engaged to form a wrap-around engagement around the patient's arm, and optionally the overlay substrate 18 may be engaged. At the end of the surgery, if the patient needs to be repositioned from prone to supine, the process can be reversed here, the auxiliary seat is reattached and the patient is rolled. Returning to the supine position, the device 10 can subsequently be removed from the front of the patient.

  In yet another embodiment of the device 10 of the present invention, a structure may be provided to reasonably position the patient in a sideways position. As shown in FIG. 34, device 10 includes a handle 14 and one or more rectangular pockets 701. The pocket 701, in some embodiments, is disposed towards the top of the device 10 and is configured to align with the axillary line 700 of the device. This allows the pocket to be located under the patient, ie near the axillary area, as shown in FIG. Pocket 701 is adapted to receive a gel roll or 1 liter fluid bag used as axillary support 702 for the patient. In use, the patient is positioned on the top surface 24 of the device 10 with the pocket 701 with the "axillary roll" aligned approximately one inch from the axilla on either side of the patient. After the patient is anesthetized, to position the patient from supine to lateral position with the axillary roll placed in the pocket 701 on the side where the patient will be positioned as shown in FIG. 36 , People will be gathered. For example, for the right recumbent position, the axillary roll will be placed on the right pocket 701 prior to repositioning. The patient is then pulled to one side away from the "down" side, and then rotated so that the operative side is up and the heel side is down. The patient should then be on the axillary roll to avoid pressure on the neurovascular bundles (axillary nerves, arteries and veins) in the axilla. At this time, fine adjustments should be made to ensure that the patient is in the center of the bed and secured to the bed in the operating room. Device 10 may further include padded substrate 16 and overlap substrate 18 provided throughout the present disclosure.

  In yet another embodiment of the device 10 of the present invention, several additional features and functions are provided. Referring to FIGS. 37-38, a patient positioning device 10 is shown having a removable padded substrate 16 each having a slit 401 as described above. The padded substrate 16 is attachable to the device 10 by the surface fasteners 371 provided on the substrate 16 that engage with the corresponding surface fasteners 372 on the device 10. In some embodiments, the entire top surface of padded substrate 16 may also be provided with surface fasteners 371. Thus, this embodiment allows the padded substrate 16 to be turned from side to side and folded back to secure the patient's arms or legs as shown in FIG. 38 and define a wrap engagement around them. The need for straps 40 is eliminated in that the back side of padded substrate 16 may include corresponding hook and loop strips 373 that allow for. Because the padded substrates 16 are removable from the device 10, they can be used as shown in FIG. 38 in which the patient's arms are unfolded.

  In some embodiments, a suction tip pocket 374 is provided for housing a suction tip for an anesthesiologist. Next to this suction tip pocket is a side pocket 375 that twists the suction tube to eliminate the unpleasant noise of suction noise when suction is not used. Also, I.I. V. Hook / loop double straps 376 may be provided at the top, center or bottom of the device 10 for securing the injection port / arterial line / Swanganz catheter / EKG cable / or blood pressure measuring tubing. The double strap design prevents the line from slipping. V. It is necessary to hold the injection port between the straps. This same principle can also be applied to Swan-Ganz catheters or other lines. The foot base double strap fastener for Foley catheter and chest tube has an additional removable Velcro® strip with an adhesive backing. These sticky backing parts will be placed on the tube or chest tube of the Foley catheter. This is subsequently placed on the hook / loop double strap 376 to prevent the tube from slipping. Multiple detachable hooks / loops or Velcro strips also serve to roll the arm with the padded substrate 16 if the arm needs to be placed on the armboard shown in FIG. 38. The hook and loop surface 371 of the padded substrate 16 to be played can be disposed. They also have I.I. V. It can be used to assemble lines, cables or tubes.

  A shoulder restraint system is also provided as an added enhancement to the patient positioning device 10 to provide additional safety and protection to the patient. 39-41, a shoulder restraint band 400 is shown comprising a generally planar sheet having a U-shaped notch 401, thus defining two restraint members 402 and 403. Each side of shoulder restraint band 400 includes one or more surface fasteners 404. Referring to FIG. 41, the lower portion 405 of the shoulder restraint band is configured to attach to a corresponding surface fastener near the shoulder area of the patient positioning device 10. The patient is subsequently placed on the device 10 and restraint members 402 and 403 are brought over the top of the patient's shoulder, which may each be secured to the padded substrate 16 by one or more surface fasteners 404. In some embodiments, padded substrate 16 may have corresponding surface fasteners 407. In addition, in some embodiments, shoulder restraints 400 may be held on the patient's shoulders while the rest is held in place while portions of restraints 402 and 403 remain attached to device 10. Perforation lines 409 are included that allow it to be attached to the base substrate 16. Thus, the distal ends of the restraint members 402 and 403 may include smaller hook-and-loop fasteners inside the perforation line 409. A shoulder restraint 400 secures the upper body and arms of the patient and additionally provides additional protection for the patient's arms from the underlying support surface, ie, the platform or wheeled stretcher of the operating room. I will provide a.

  In another embodiment, as shown in FIGS. 42-44, shoulder restraint zone 400 comprises two layers of padded material. In some embodiments, the upper layer 411 is in intimate contact with the patient's body and stabilizes the patient and reduces the risk of pressure damage to the sacral and scapula area during prolonged procedures, especially during surgery. Comprising a memory foam or similar padded material configured as follows. The lower layer 412 comprises a foam combined with a laminated looped fabric, such as a "loop" of Velcro® material. The laminated foam reinforces the bottom layer and provides a surface for attachment of the various substrates, wrapping, and accessories of the device 10, as described in detail throughout the present disclosure. In some embodiments, the shoulder restraint band 400 has a U-shaped notch 401, thus defining two restraint members 402 and 403 for each side of the patient's body, generally planar It has a sheet. The constraining members 402 and 403 are divided longitudinally into two parts, namely the inner parts 402 'and 403' and the outer parts 402 "and 403" of each. In some embodiments, restraint members 402 and 403, and portions thereof, each include one or more surface fasteners 404.

  In use, as shown in FIGS. 44A-44E, the inner portions 402 'and 403' of the respective restraint members are wound around the patient, generally at the mitral muscle (FIG. 44B), to the patient positioning device 10, for example, at the shoulders. The surface fasteners attach to the substrate 16 wound around the patient's arm closest to each member of the restraint band 400. The outer portions 402 "and 403" of the respective constraining members are wound around the patient generally at the acrota (FIG. 44C) and attached to the patient positioning device 10, for example to the substrate 16. In some embodiments, additional surface fastener materials may be used to attach the inner and outer portions of the shoulder straps to one another. Overlap substrate 18 may then be placed over the arm / shoulder area to cover the attachment point (FIG. 44D). It is understood that the shoulder restraint 400 can function as a stand-alone device, or that it can be adhered to the patient positioning device 10 or otherwise be used in conjunction with the patient positioning device 10.

  The sectioned shoulder restraint 400 provides a close-fitting "customized" fit with the patient's body, in particular, in and around the shoulder and upper thorax area. The shoulder restraint 400 distributes the patient's weight across the shoulder area when the patient is placed in a Trendelenburg position (head down and lean as shown in FIG. 44E). Acting as it is, it is particularly useful as it can significantly reduce the risk of brachial plexus injury, which is a common injury that occurs during prolonged use of Trendelenburg position. These advantages are provided by the double restraint of the shoulder in the area of the shoulder plate and mitral muscle. Another advantage of the shoulder restraint 400 is to provide passive heating (coating and warming) of the patient's shoulders and arms, especially when used in conjunction with any forced hot air features of the device 10 substrate and device. To help maintain the patient's temperature.

  45A-45B depict yet another embodiment of the present invention configured as a multi-purpose pad 500 generally having a stepped T-shaped configuration. In some embodiments, the pad 500 comprises a durable foam that provides protection, support, and warmth to the subject patient. The pad 500 is divided into three parts: a lower part 501, a central part 502 and an upper part 503. The patient is disposed on the pad 500 such that the lower portion 501 is located approximately around the patient's lower torso and forearm and hand area. The central portion 502 is generally disposed about the thorax, upper torso, and upper arm regions and is wider than the lower portion 501. The upper portion 503 is disposed generally around the patient's head and shoulder area and is the narrowest of the three portions 501, 502, and 503. Each of the parts 501, 502 and 503 is arranged to cover the sides of the body at the place where they are arranged. In some embodiments, lower portion 501 includes left arm wrap 501 ′ and right arm wrap 501 ′ ′ (similar to padded substrate 16 in other embodiments) and central portion 502 includes left thoracic wrap 502 ′ and The upper portion 503 includes a right shoulder wrap 503 ′ and a right shoulder wrap 503 ′ ′.

  FIG. 45B shows a multipurpose pad 500 in use. To secure the patient placed on the pad 500, the left thoracic wrap 502 'and the right thoracic wrap 502 "are overlapped over the patient's thoracic area, for example, secured by a hook and loop fastener etc. Next, the left shoulder A wrap 503 'and a right shoulder wrap 503 "are each wrapped down on the patient's shoulder and directed downward so as to be attached to the left chest wrap 502' and the right chest wrap 502" respectively. The attachment is to the respective thorax wrap This may be done by means of surface fasteners or the like attached at or near the end of each of 502 'and 502 ". Next, in some embodiments, a left arm wrap 501 'and a right arm wrap 502 "are wrapped around each arm of the patient to protect, lift and raise the arms. Some implementations. In form, the pad 500 secures the patient across the upper body at the arms, thorax, torso, and shoulders, for example, to protect and secure the patient in various postures, including but not limited to Trendelenburg postures. Can be incorporated into the patient positioning device 10 or otherwise combined with the patient positioning device 10 as a more robust alternative to the padded substrate 16. In other embodiments, the pad 500 comprises Wheeled by one or more surface fastener straps or similar strap devices It can function as a standalone device that is attached to the stretcher or an operating table.

  While particular embodiments are described in detail, one of ordinary skill in the art will understand that various modifications and alternatives of those details can be developed in light of the entire teachings of the disclosure. Thus, the specific sequences disclosed are intended to be exemplary only, and not to limit the invention, which is intended to cover the full scope of the appended claims and any and all equivalents thereof. Should be given an equivalent.

Claims (10)

A patient positioning device,
A planar sheet having a top surface and having first and second side edges and first and second edges, configured for positioning of a patient on the sheet, the patient comprising: A sheet supported by the upper surface with the second side edge close to the patient's arm, and
A first flexible substrate and a second flexible substrate each bonded to the sheet, wherein each of the flexible substrates comprises at least a portion of additional padding;
A shoulder restraint band comprising a U-shaped seat defining two restraint members;
The first and second substrates are configured to be wound around the patient's proximal arm while creating a wrap-around engagement, and the additional padding is under the proximal arm of the patient Provided in
The wrap engagement protects the arm from damage caused by pressure applied to the arm during surgery or transport, and holds the arm in an elevated position above the flat sheet and underlying support surface; The raised position prevents damage to the arm from the planar sheet and the underlying support surface,
The patient lying on the flat sheet can be lifted by the flat sheet or slid along with the flat sheet
The shoulder restraint is disposed under the patient's shoulder, and the restraint member is disposed on the shoulder and around the shoulder and is removably secured to the respective winding engagement. Positioning device.   The patient positioning device according to claim 1, wherein each of the restraining members of the shoulder restraining band comprises an inner portion and an outer portion.   The patient positioning device according to claim 2, wherein the inner portion of each of the constraining members is configured to be wrapped around the patient generally at the mitral muscle and to be attached to the patient positioning device by a surface fastener.   The patient positioning device according to claim 2, wherein the outer portion of each of the restraint members is configured to be wound about the patient generally at a shoulder plate and attached to the patient positioning device.   A shoulder restraint for holding and securing a patient, said shoulder restraint comprising a U-shaped seat defining two restraint members, said shoulder restraint being arranged under the patient's shoulder A shoulder restraint band configured to be disposed, wherein the restraint member is disposed on and around the shoulder and configured to be removably secured to a substrate.   The shoulder restraint zone according to claim 5, wherein each of the restraint members of the shoulder restraint zone comprises an inner portion and an outer portion.   The shoulder restraint band according to claim 6, wherein the inner portion of each of the restraint members is configured to be wound around the patient generally at the mitral muscle and to be attached to the substrate by a surface fastener.   The shoulder restraint band according to claim 6, wherein the outer portion of each of the restraint members is configured to be wound about the patient, generally at the shoulder plate, and attached to a substrate.   The shoulder restraint zone according to claim 6, wherein the shoulder restraint zone comprises an upper layer of foam and a lower layer in which a foam and a loop-like fastener material are combined. A method for holding and securing a patient,
Providing a shoulder restraint band, the shoulder restraint band comprising a U-shaped seat defining two restraint members, each of the restraint members having an inner portion and an outer portion
Placing the shoulder restraint under the patient's shoulder;
Wrapping at least one of the inner portions of the constraining members about the mitral muscle about the patient and securing the inner portions to the substrate;
Winding the outer portion of at least one of the restraining members generally at the aortic disc with a patient and securing the outer portion to a substrate.