Richard E Dean

US Patent:

57946280, Aug 18, 1998

Filed:

Jan 13, 1997

Appl. No.:

8/782597

Inventors:

Richard D. Dean - Shawnee KS

International Classification:

A61F 900

US Classification:

128858

Abstract:

An improved composite material (10) adapted for shaping to assume a desired concavo-convex configuration is provided which includes a generally flat sheet (12) of mesh-type synthetic resin (e. g. , polycaprolactone) material with a layer (14) of perforate, resiliently stretchable material secured to one face of the sheet (12) by adhesive (16). The composite (10) can be warmed and used to form a concavo-convex, body part-immobilizing sling (10a). A composite (110) is also provided having a layer (114) with imperforate marginal regions (119) overlapping corresponding edges of a synthetic resin sheet (112); the margins (119) facilitate molding of the composite (110) and allow use of cantilever support legs (130).

US Patent:

55312292, Jul 2, 1996

Filed:

Jan 20, 1995

Appl. No.:

8/375655

Inventors:

Richard D. Dean - Shawnee KS
Dick A. Jones - Shawnee KS

International Classification:

A61F 500
A61F 1100
H05G 102

US Classification:

128866

Abstract:

An improved immobilization device (10) for specific patients and body parts is provided which insures that a body part is immobilized and can be successively repositioned in the same location during successive treatments. The device (10) is thus particularly applicable for treatment such as radiation therapy where it is important to properly focus treating radiation on a particular locale from treatment-to-treatment. The device (10) preferably includes a frame assembly (16) adapted to rest upon a surface and which supports a preformed, shape-retaining material (12) presenting a concavity (14) substantially conforming with a selected body part to be immobilized. The device (10) when used for head immobilization, may also be provided with stabilizer (98) in the form of an adjustably positioned bite block (134). Hold-down straps (52, 54) can also be employed for further immobilization. Additional immobilization may also be provided by a nose bridge holddown assembly (136) operably coupled to frame assembly (16) and engaging nose bridge and eyebrow region of the patient.