METHODS AND APPARATUS FOR THERAPEUTIC APPLICATION OF THERMAL ENERGY

摘要

Apparatus and methods are provided for treating a human condition by providing an appendage chamber having a thermal exchange member. A vacuum may be applied to the appendage chamber to maintain vasodilation of an appendage when placed within the appendage chamber. The appendage may be heated or cooled at the thermal exchange member for therapeutic application of thermal energy to treat a number of circulatory, neurological, lymphatic, or endocrinal maladies.

主权项

1. Apparatus for treating a condition of a human, the apparatus comprising:
an appendage chamber configured to accept an appendage; a thermal exchange member disposed within the appendage chamber, the thermal exchange member configured to contact the appendage to selectively heat or cool an arteriovenous anastomosis vascular area of the appendage; a pressure sensor disposed under the thermal exchange member, the pressure sensor configured to measure at least one of a pressure or force of the appendage against the thermal exchange member; a vacuum source coupled to the appendage chamber to maintain vasodilation of the arteriovenous anastomosis vascular area when placed within the appendage chamber; and a programmable controller configured to determine whether the pressure or force of the appendage measured using the pressure sensor is within a predetermined range.