Importance

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Abstract

A facial support mask supports the face of a patient in the prone position during surgical procedures in spaced relation above a support surface and in a variety of selectively fixed positions relative to the torso and the support surface. The mask has a plurality of transversely spaced longitudinal crescent arms; at least one cross-strut interconnected with the longitudinal crescent arms; an inflatable chamber attached to the crescent arms and adapted to contact the patient's forehead and sides of his face; means and securement strap for securing the mask to the patient's face. The mask may also include an integral secretion collection dish for draining away secretions during the surgical procedure. The method includes providing a facial support mask for supporting a patient's face during surgical procedures in the prone position; anesthetizing the patient; placing said mask on patient's face such that no part of said mask contacts the patient's eyes, nose, or lips; securing said mask to patient's face; rolling the patient into the prone position; adjusting the inflation of the chamber to obtain correct inflation pressure; adjusting the patient's head orientation; and draining of any patient secretions.

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First Claim