TITLE: SOFT-GOODS TYPE, FORMABLE ORTHOPEADIC CAST.
European Patent Application EP0494993 A1

ABSTRACT:
Abstract not available for EP0494993
Abstract of corresponding document: US4996979
A soft goods type foldable, wrappable sleeve orthopedic cast
immobilizes and conforms to the shape and configuration of a limb, or
other part of the anatomy. The soft-goods type cast assembly is
initially specially formed or configured to specifically fit a selected
portion of the anatomy of a patient. The cast conforms to the anatomy
through the use of airtight and moisture-proof pouches which
encapsulate either (1) open cell or fiberglass matrices impregnated
with a water-activated hardenable pre-polymer, or (2) the entire
assembly. After the tightening of the cast around the limb, the
application of water activates the urethane polymer which conforms to
the configuration of the limb encased. Supplemental bendable ribs may
be employed to splint the limb prior to activation of the hardenable
material. The soft goods type cast is held in place by straps, and may
be removed or adjusted by releasing or tightening the straps. The
splinting elements may be removed and replaced. An inlet duct may have
a capsule in it with some of the chemical material which aids in
polymerization of the urethane. A venting duct may also be provided to
permit the escape of air or gases. The water activated pre-polymer
material may include two isocyanate pre-polymers of significantly
different viscosities and equivalent weights.

INVENTORS:
Grim, Tracy E. (US)
Mcginniss, Vincent (US)
Hughes, Kenneth E. (US)
Easter, David A. (US)
Whitmore Jr., Robert S. (US)
Carpenter, Timothy J. (US)
Guza, David E. (US)

APPLICATION NUMBER: EP19900916550
PUBLICATION DATE: 07/22/1992
FILING DATE: 09/20/1990

ASSIGNEE: ROYCE MEDICAL CO (US)
INTERNATIONAL CLASSES: A61F5/058; A61F13/04; A61F5/04; A61F13/04; (IPC1-7): A61F5/04
EUROPEAN CLASSES: A61F5/058H; A61F13/04

DOMESTIC PATENT REFERENCES:
EP0165208 Heat-mouldable element and its use.
EP0181138 Combinations of materials and method for forming a splint.

FOREIGN REFERENCES:
4852557 Soft-goods type, formable orthopaedic cast

OTHER REFERENCES:
See also references of WO 9105526A1