Methods and devices to reduce the likelihood of injury from concussive or blast forces

US9173660B2 · kind B2 · utility

Assignees

• TBI Innovations, LLC · US
• Thornhill Research Inc. · CA

Inventors

• David W. Smith · Richmond, US
• Kevin John Vititoe · Columbus, US
• Jamison Joseph Float · Westerville, US
• Chad Michael Leeder · Newbury Park, US
• Joseph Fisher · Morden, CA

Key dates

• Filing date: Mar 15, 2013
• Grant date: Nov 3, 2015
• Expiry date: Mar 15, 2033

Classification

• Technology area (CPC A): Human Necessities
• CPC primary: A61F5/34
• WIPO field: Medical technology
• WIPO sector: Instruments

Abstract

A method and device for reducing the damaging effects of radiant energy, blast, or concussive events includes applying pressure to at least one jugular vein to reduce the egress of blood from the cranial cavity during or before the incidence of the imparting event. Reducing blood outflow from the cranial cavity increases intracranial volume and/or pressure of the cerebrospinal fluid to reduce the risk of traumatic brain injury and injuries to the spinal column. Reducing blood outflow further increases the intracranial pressure and volume, and thereby increases the pressure and volume of the cochlear fluid, the vitreous humor and the cerebrospinal fluid to thereby reduce the risk of injury to the inner ear, internal structure of the eye and of the spinal column. In addition, increasing intracranial pressure and volume reduces the likelihood of brain injury and any associated loss of olfactory function.