Abstract:
A patient protection system and method for using the same includes a face mask structure configured to protect the head of a patient during surgical procedures. The face mask structure includes a foam body having an exterior surface and an interior surface configured to be oriented towards the patient&#39;s face to cover the patient&#39;s face during the surgical procedure; and at least one foam pad positioned on the interior surface of the face mask structure and configured to contact the patient&#39;s face during the surgical procedure. The face mask structure and the at least one foam pad are manufactured from different types of foam.

Description:
CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS 
       [0001]    The present patent application claims the benefit of the filing dates of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62/113,825, filed on Feb. 9, 2015, and U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62/156,583, filed on May 4, 2015, the disclosures of which are hereby incorporated by reference in their entirety. The present patent application is also a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/205,520, filed on Mar. 12, 2014, which claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 61/793,874, filed on Mar. 15, 2013, the disclosures of which are also hereby incorporated by reference in their entirety. 
     
    
     BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
       [0002]    1. Field of the Invention 
         [0003]    The present application relates to a patient protection system comprising a head mask structure, configured to protect the head of a patient, for use in robotic surgical procedures. 
         [0004]    2. Description of Related Art 
         [0005]    Robotic operation equipment may be programmed to take a shortest path between a point where an operating instrument is to a point where the operating instrument is desired to be. A surgeon may make a mistake in moving an operating instrument from a point where the operating instrument currently is, to a point where the operating instrument is desired to be. A problem exists wherein one or more arms of a robotic operation device may strike a patient, damaging the patient&#39;s face or eye. To restrict or minimize the possibility of a patient being injured due to these errors or mistakes made by robotic operation equipment or a surgeon during robotic surgery, a need exists for a protective face mask configured to cover the face or face area of a patient. 
       SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
       [0006]    An embodiment of the invention described in the present patent application may relate to a patient protection system configured for protecting a patient&#39;s face and eyes during a surgical procedure, the system comprising: a face mask structure comprising a foam body having an exterior surface and an interior surface configured to be oriented towards the patient&#39;s face to cover the patient&#39;s face during the surgical procedure; and at least one foam pad positioned on the interior surface of the face mask structure and configured to contact the patient&#39;s face during the surgical procedure, wherein the face mask structure and the foam pad are manufactured from different types of foam. 
         [0007]    An embodiment of the invention described in the present patent application may relate to a patient protection system, wherein the face mask structure is manufactured from a first type of foam and the at least one foam pad is manufactured from a viscoelastic foam that is softer than the first type of foam. 
         [0008]    An embodiment of the invention described in the present patent application may relate to a patient protection system, wherein the at least one foam pad includes at least one first foam pad positioned on the interior surface of the face mask structure to come into contact with a chin of the patient and at least one second foam pad positioned on the interior surface of the face mask structure to come into contact with a forehead of the patient. 
         [0009]    An embodiment of the invention described in the present patent application may relate to a patient protection system, wherein the face mask structure further comprises: an eye opening configured to allow observation of the patient&#39;s eyes during the surgical procedure. 
         [0010]    An embodiment of the invention described in the present patent application may relate to a patient protection system, wherein the face mask structure further comprises one or more side notches formed therein and configured to allow intubation of the patient during robotic surgery. 
         [0011]    An embodiment of the invention described in the present patent application may relate to a patient protection system wherein the face mask structure further comprises an intubation observation opening formed on the exterior surface thereof and extending through the interior surface and configured to allow observation of an intubation of the patient during the surgical procedure. 
         [0012]    An embodiment of the invention described in the present patent application may relate to a patient protection system further comprising a strap operatively connected to the face mask structure and configured to secure the face mask structure to the patient during the surgical procedure. 
         [0013]    An embodiment of the invention described in the present patent application may relate to a patient protection system further comprising one or more plate members affixed to the exterior surface of the face mask structure. 
         [0014]    An embodiment of the invention described in the present patent application may relate to a patient protection system further comprising a head rest unit configured to contact and support a head of the patient during the surgical procedure, wherein the head rest unit is comprised of a foam material. 
         [0015]    An embodiment of the invention described in the present patent application may relate to a patient protection system, wherein the head rest further comprises one or more strap receiving members formed on an exterior surface thereof; wherein the one or more strap receiving members are configured to coact with one or more straps of the face mask structure to secure the face mask structure during robotic surgery. 
         [0016]    An embodiment of the invention described in the present patent application may relate to a face mask for use during a surgical procedure, comprising: a foam body comprising an exterior surface and an interior surface configured to cover a face of the patient during the surgical procedure; a chin area channel extending from the exterior surface to the interior surface of the foam body at a bottom area of the foam body and configured to allow intubation of the patient during surgical procedure; and an attachment mechanism provided on the exterior surface of the foam body in the bottom area of the foam body and configured to allow opening and closure of the chin area channel during the surgical procedure. 
         [0017]    An embodiment of the invention described in the present patent application may relate to a face mask, further comprising an eye opening formed in the exterior surface of the foam body and configured to allow observation of the patient&#39;s eyes during robotic surgery. 
         [0018]    An embodiment of the invention described in the present patent application may relate to a face mask further comprising: an eye shield positioned over the eye opening and configured to cover a patient&#39;s eyes and to allow observation of a patient&#39;s eyes during the surgical procedure; and one or more attachment mechanisms configured to removably attach the eye shield to the foam body over the eye opening. 
         [0019]    An embodiment of the invention described in the present patent application may relate to a face mask further comprising: one or more plate members positioned on the exterior surface of the foam body and configured to protect the patient during the surgical procedure. 
         [0020]    An embodiment of the invention described in the present patent application may relate to a face mask, wherein the one or more plate members comprise: one or more protection plates positioned on the foam body to protect a forehead of a patient and a side of the patient&#39;s face; and one or more chin protection plates positioned on the foam body to protect a chin of the patient. 
         [0021]    An embodiment of the invention described in the present patent application may relate to a face mask, wherein at least one foam pad is positioned on the interior surface of the face mask structure and configured to contact the patient&#39;s face during the surgical procedure. 
         [0022]    An embodiment of the invention described in the present patent application may relate to a method for protecting a face of a patient during surgical procedure comprising: placing a patient&#39;s head on a head rest unit configured to support the patient&#39;s head; placing a face mask structure configured to protect the patient&#39;s face over the patient&#39;s face, the face mask structure comprising: a foam body having an exterior surface and an interior surface configured to be oriented towards the patient&#39;s face to cover the patient&#39;s face during the surgical procedure; at least one foam pad positioned on the interior surface of the face mask structure and configured to contact the patient&#39;s face during the surgical procedure; and securing the face mask structure to the head rest unit. 
         [0023]    An embodiment of the invention described in the present patent application may relate to a method, wherein the face mask structure is manufactured from a first type of foam and the at least one foam pad is manufactured from a viscoelastic foam that is softer than the first type of foam. 
         [0024]    An embodiment of the invention described in the present patent application may relate to a method, wherein the face mask structure further comprises a chin area channel extending from the exterior surface to the interior surface of the foam body at a bottom area of the foam body; and the method further comprises intubating the patient and positioning an intubation tube within the chin area channel. 
         [0025]    An embodiment of the invention described in the present patent application may relate to a method, wherein the face mask structure further comprises an eye shield positioned over an eye opening formed in the foam body, the eye shield configured to cover a patient&#39;s eyes and to allow observation of a patient&#39;s eyes during the surgical procedure; and one or more attachment mechanisms configured to removably attach the eye shield to the foam body; and the method further comprises closing an removably securing the eye shield in place. 
         [0026]    One feature or aspect of an embodiment of the present invention is a method of protecting a patient on a medical procedure table during a robotic operation, said method comprising use of a robotic patient protection system comprising a head mask structure configured to protect the head of a patient for use in robotic surgical procedures, said mask structure comprising: a face covering polyethylene foam body configured to substantially conform to the face of the patient; said face covering polyethylene body being covered by a hard plastic covering membrane, configured to be disposed away from the face of the patient, covering the outer surface of said polyethylene foam body; a viscoelastic open cell foam disposed on the inner portion of said body which is configured to be disposed toward the patient&#39;s face; a headrest member configured to hold the back of the head of the patient during an operation which headrest member comprises a hollowed out portion configured to receive the back of the head of the patient; a strap member attaching arrangement with a hook or loop strap connected to said hard portion of said outer surface of said mask; a hook or loop member connected to said headrest member and configured to attach to said strap member hook or loop attaching arrangement; said face covering polyethylene body covered with said hard plastic covering providing a safety covering for the head of the patient in the event of a malfunction by either the surgeon or the software thereby preventing or substantially preventing or minimizing injury to the patient upon a portion of the robotic surgical apparatus striking the hard plastic covered body; putting the back of the head of the patient in the headrest; placing said face covering polyethylene foam body with the hard covering and the viscoelastic layer on the patient and connecting the straps to the headrest; and preventing or substantially preventing or minimizing injury to the patient upon a portion of the robotic surgical apparatus striking the hard plastic cover body. 
         [0027]    Another feature or aspect of an embodiment is believed at the time of the filing of this patent application to possibly reside broadly in a method of protecting a patient on a medical procedure table during a robotic operation, said method comprising use of a head mask structure configured to protect the head of a patient, said mask structure comprising: a face covering foam body configured to substantially conform to the face of the patient; said face covering body being covered by a hard plastic covering configured to be disposed away from the face of the patient covering the outer surface of said foam body; a soft face-conforming material disposed on the inner portion of said face covering body which soft face-conforming material is disposed and configured to be disposed toward the patient&#39;s face; a headrest member configured to hold the back of the head of the patient during an operation which headrest member comprises a hollowed out portion configured to receive the back of the head of the patient; strap member attaching arrangement connected to one of: said hard portion of said outer surface of said mask; and said headrest member; a connecting member connected to said headrest member and configured to attach to said strap member hook or loop attaching arrangement; said face covering body covered with said hard plastic covering providing a safety covering for the head of the patient in the event of a malfunction by either the surgeon or the software thereby said safety covering preventing or substantially preventing or minimizing injury to the patient upon a portion of the robotic surgical apparatus striking the hard plastic covering said face covering body; said method comprising the steps of: putting a portion of the head of the patient in the headrest; placing said face covering foam body with the hard covering on the patient and connecting the attachment arrangement to the headrest; and preventing or substantially preventing or minimizing injury to the patient upon a portion of the robotic surgical apparatus striking the hard plastic cover body. 
         [0028]    Yet another feature or aspect of an embodiment is believed at the time of the filing of this patent application to possibly reside broadly in a method of protecting a patient on a medical procedure table during a robotic operation, said method comprising use of a head mask structure configured to protect the head of a patient, said mask structure comprising: a first head covering body part configured to substantially conform to the face of the patient; said first head covering body part being covered by a hard plastic covering configured to be disposed away from the face of the patient covering the outer surface of said first head covering body part; a soft face conforming material disposed on the inner portion of said first head covering body part which soft face-conforming material is disposed and configured to be disposed toward the patient&#39;s face; a second head covering body part configured to hold the back of the head of the patient during an operation which second head covering body part comprises a hollowed out portion configured to receive the back of the head of the patient; a part attaching arrangement connected to one of: said hard portion of said first head covering body part; and said second head covering body part; a connecting member connected to said second head covering body part and configured to attach to said part attaching arrangement; said first head covering body part covered with said hard plastic covering providing a safety covering for the head of the patient in the event of a malfunction by either the surgeon or the software thereby said safety covering preventing or substantially preventing or minimizing injury to the patient upon a portion of the robotic surgical apparatus striking the hard plastic covering said first head covering body part; said method comprising the steps of: putting a portion of the head of a patient in said first head covering body part; putting a portion of the head of the patient in said second head covering body part; aligning said first head covering body part with the hard covering on the patient and connecting the part attachment arrangement to said second head covering body part; and preventing or substantially preventing or minimizing injury to the patient upon a portion of the robotic surgical apparatus striking the hard plastic cover body. 
         [0029]    Still another feature or aspect of an embodiment is believed at the time of the filing of this patent application to possibly reside broadly in the method of protecting a patient on a medical procedure table during a robotic operation, said method comprising use of a head mask structure configured to protect the head of a patient, wherein said mask structure Further comprises: said first connecting member attaching arrangement is configured to be connected to said first head covering body part; and said second connecting member attaching arrangement is configured to be connected to said second head covering body part. 
         [0030]    A further feature or aspect of an embodiment is believed at the time of the filing of this patent application to possibly reside broadly in the method of protecting a patient on a medical procedure table during a robotic operation, said method comprising use of a head mask structure configured to protect the head of a patient, wherein said mask structure Further comprises a head-conforming material disposed on at least one of: the inner portion of said first head covering body part and said second head covering body part which is configured to be disposed toward the patient&#39;s face and configured to be substantially matchable to the patient&#39;s face. 
         [0031]    Another feature or aspect of an embodiment is believed at the time of the filing of this patent application to possibly reside broadly in the method of protecting a patient on a medical procedure table during a robotic operation, said method comprising use of a head mask structure configured to protect the head of a patient, wherein said head-conforming material is sufficiently soft to conform to the patient&#39;s head and is configured to be disposed toward the patient&#39;s head and configured to be substantially matchable to the patient&#39;s head. 
         [0032]    Yet another feature or aspect of an embodiment is believed at the time of the filing of this patent application to possibly reside broadly in the method of protecting a patient on a medical procedure table during a robotic operation, said method comprising use of a head mask structure configured to protect the head of a patient, wherein said head-conforming material comprises a viscoelastic material being sufficiently soft to conform to the patient&#39;s face and is configured to be disposed toward the patient&#39;s head and configured to be substantially matchable to the patient&#39;s head. 
         [0033]    Still another feature or aspect of an embodiment is believed at the time of the filing of this patent application to possibly reside broadly in the method of protecting a patient on a medical procedure table during a robotic operation, said method comprising use of a head mask structure configured to protect the head of a patient, wherein said viscoelastic material comprises an open cell foam. 
         [0034]    A further feature or aspect of an embodiment is believed at the time of the filing of this patent application to possibly reside broadly in the method of protecting a patient on a medical procedure table during a robotic operation, said method comprising use of a head mask structure configured to protect the head of a patient, wherein said second head covering body part is configured to hold the back of the head of the patient during a medical procedure, which second head covering body part comprises a hollowed out portion configured to receive the back of the head of the patient. 
         [0035]    Another feature or aspect of an embodiment is believed at the time of the filing of this patent application to possibly reside broadly in the method of protecting a patient on a medical procedure table during a robotic operation, said method comprising use of a head mask structure configured to protect the head of a patient, wherein said first connecting member attaching arrangement comprises a strap, which strap comprises a hook or loop arrangement configured to be connected to said hard covering of said head mask structure. 
         [0036]    Yet another feature or aspect of an embodiment is believed at the time of the filing of this patent application to possibly reside broadly in a head protecting mask configured to protect a patient on a medical procedure table during a robotic medical procedure, which head protecting mask is configured for use according to the method, said head protecting mask comprising: a head covering body comprising a first part and a second part, said first head covering body part comprising a hollowed out portion configured to receive a portion configured to receive a portion of the head of a patient; said first head covering body part being configured to be disposed above said second head covering body part during use and being covered by a hard covering, configured to be disposed away from the head of the patient, covering the outer surface of said first head covering body part; said second head covering body part being configured to hold a portion of the head of the patient during a medical procedure, which second head covering body part comprises a hollowed out portion configured to receive a portion of the head of the patient; a first connecting member attaching arrangement connected to one of: said first head covering body part; and said second head covering body part; a second connecting member attachment arrangement connected to the other of: said first head covering body part; and said second head covering body part; said first head covering body part covered with said hard covering being configured to be disposed to provide a safety covering for the head of the patient in the event of a malfunction, such as, by either the surgeon or the software, wherein said hard covering is configured to prevent or substantially prevent or minimize injury to the patient upon a portion of the robotic surgical apparatus striking the hard covering of said head covering body. 
         [0037]    Still another feature or aspect of an embodiment is believed at the time of the filing of this patent application to possibly reside broadly in the head protecting mask configured to protect a patient on a medical procedure table during a robotic medical procedure, which head protecting mask is configured for use according to the method, wherein: said first connecting member attaching arrangement is configured to be connected to said first head covering body part; and said second connecting member attaching arrangement is configured to be connected to said second head covering body part. 
         [0038]    A further feature or aspect of an embodiment is believed at the time of the filing of this patent application to possibly reside broadly in the head protecting mask configured to protect a patient on a medical procedure table during a robotic medical procedure, which head protecting mask is configured for use according to the method, wherein said head protecting mask further comprises a head-conforming material disposed on at least one of: the inner portion of said first head covering body part and said second head covering body part which is configured to be disposed toward the patient&#39;s head and configured to be substantially matchable to the patient&#39;s head. 
         [0039]    One feature or aspect of an embodiment is believed at the time of the filing of this patent application to possibly reside broadly in the head protecting mask configured to protect a patient on a medical procedure table during a robotic medical procedure, which head protecting mask is configured for use according to the method, wherein said head protecting mask Further comprises a head-conforming material disposed on at least one of: the inner portion of said first head covering body part and said second head covering body part which is configured to be disposed toward the patient&#39;s face and configured to be substantially matchable to the patient&#39;s face. 
         [0040]    Another feature or aspect of an embodiment is believed at the time of the filing of this patent application to possibly reside broadly in the head protecting mask configured to protect a patient on a medical procedure table during a robotic medical procedure, which head protecting mask is configured for use according to the method, wherein said head-conforming material is sufficiently soft to conform to the patient&#39;s head and is configured to be disposed toward the patient&#39;s head and configured to be substantially matchable to the patient&#39;s head. 
         [0041]    Yet another feature or aspect of an embodiment is believed at the time of the filing of this patent application to possibly reside broadly in the head protecting mask configured to protect a patient on a medical procedure table during a robotic medical procedure, which head protecting mask is configured for use according to the method, wherein said head-conforming material comprises a viscoelastic material being sufficiently soft to conform to the patient&#39;s face and is configured to be disposed toward the patient&#39;s head and configured to be substantially matchable to the patient&#39;s head. 
         [0042]    Still another feature or aspect of an embodiment is believed at the time of the filing of this patent application to possibly reside broadly in the head protecting mask configured to protect a patient on a medical procedure table during a robotic medical procedure, which head protecting mask is configured for use according to the method, wherein said viscoelastic material comprises an open cell foam. 
         [0043]    A further feature or aspect of an embodiment is believed at the time of the filing of this patent application to possibly reside broadly in the head protecting mask configured to protect a patient on a medical procedure table during a robotic medical procedure, which head protecting mask is configured for use according to the method, wherein said second head covering body part is configured to hold the back of the head of the patient during a medical procedure, which second head covering body part comprises a hollowed out portion configured to receive the back of the head of the patient. 
         [0044]    Another feature or aspect of an embodiment is believed at the time of the filing of this patent application to possibly reside broadly in the head protecting mask configured to protect a patient on a medical procedure table during a robotic medical procedure, which head protecting mask is configured for use according to the method, wherein said first connecting member attaching arrangement comprises a strap, which strap comprises a hook or loop arrangement configured to be connected to said hard covering of said head protecting mask. 
         [0045]    Yet another feature or aspect of an embodiment is believed at the time of the filing of this patent application to possibly reside broadly in the head protecting mask configured to protect a patient on a medical procedure table during a robotic medical procedure, which head protecting mask is configured for use according to the method, wherein said second connecting member attachment arrangement connected to said second head covering body part. 
     
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWING(S) 
         [0046]      FIG. 1  is a block diagram of an embodiment of a robotic surgery system to perform minimally invasive robotic surgical procedures using one or more robotic surgical arms with a strap drive train; 
           [0047]      FIG. 2  shows a top view of one possible embodiment of a face unit of a patient protection system according to one possible embodiment of the present application; 
           [0048]      FIG. 3  shows a side view of the face unit of the possible embodiment of a patient protection system as shown in  FIG. 2 ; 
           [0049]      FIG. 4  shows an end view of the face unit of the possible embodiment of a patient protection system as shown in  FIG. 2 ; 
           [0050]      FIG. 5  shows a top view of another possible embodiment of a face unit of a patient protection system according to one possible embodiment of the present application; 
           [0051]      FIG. 6  shows a side view of the face unit of the possible embodiment of a patient protection system as shown in  FIG. 5 ; 
           [0052]      FIG. 7  shows an end view of the face unit of the possible embodiment of a patient protection system as shown in  FIG. 5 ; 
           [0053]      FIG. 8  shows an end view of one possible embodiment of a head rest unit of a patient protection system according to one possible embodiment of the present application; 
           [0054]      FIG. 9  shows a top view of the head rest unit of the possible embodiment of a patient protection system as shown in  FIG. 8 ; 
           [0055]      FIG. 10  shows a side view of the head rest unit of the possible embodiment of a patient protection system as shown in  FIG. 8 ; 
           [0056]      FIG. 11  shows a perspective view of the possible embodiment as shown in  FIGS. 2-4 ; 
           [0057]      FIG. 12  shows a perspective view of the possible embodiment as shown in  FIGS. 5-7 ; 
           [0058]      FIG. 13  shows a perspective view of the possible embodiment as shown in  FIGS. 8-10 ; 
           [0059]      FIG. 14  shows a perspective view of an embodiment of a headrest 
           [0060]      FIG. 15  shows one possible embodiment of the patient protection system of the present application in use with a patient&#39;s head disposed in the patient protection system; 
           [0061]      FIG. 16  is a diagram of another possible embodiment of the patient protection system of the present application for use during robotic surgery or a medical procedure, for example, such as back surgery; 
           [0062]      FIG. 17  shows a front view of an embodiment of a mask with protection plates affixed and embedded protection plates inserted within the mask; 
           [0063]      FIG. 18  shows a side view of an embodiment of a mask with the protection plates affixed and the embedded protection plates inserted within the mask; 
           [0064]    In  FIG. 19  the mask is shown from the bottom side with protection plates affixed; 
           [0065]      FIG. 20  shows a reverse view of an embodiment of a mask wherein foam relief pads are positioned within the inside of the mask; 
           [0066]      FIG. 21  shows a front view of an embodiment of embedded protection plates not embedded without a mask; 
           [0067]      FIG. 22  shows a side view of an embodiment of embedded protection plates not embedded into a mask; 
           [0068]      FIG. 23  shows a front view of an embodiment of the mask, wherein the protection plates are disposed on the surface of the mask; 
           [0069]      FIG. 24  is a side view of an embodiment of the mask, wherein the plastic protection plates are disposed on the surface of the mask; 
           [0070]      FIG. 24  shows greater detail of an embodiment of an eye shield, and means for attaching thereof, shown in  FIGS. 23 and 24 ; 
           [0071]      FIG. 25  shows a top view of an embodiment of the mask; 
           [0072]      FIG. 26  shows a side view, of an embodiment of the mask; 
           [0073]      FIG. 27  shows an end view of an embodiment of the mask; 
           [0074]      FIG. 28  shows a side view of an embodiment of the mask secured to a head rest by means of straps; and 
           [0075]      FIG. 29  shows a top view of the embodiment shown in  FIG. 28 . 
       
    
    
     DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION 
       [0076]      FIG. 1  shows a block diagram of an example of a robotic surgery system  200  configured to perform minimally invasive robotic surgical procedures using one or more robotic arms with a strap drive. Robotic surgery generally involves the use of a robot manipulator that has multiple robotic manipulator arms. One or more of the robotic manipulator arms often supports a surgical tool which may be articulated (such as jaws, scissors, graspers, needle holders, micro dissectors, staple appliers, tackers, suction/irrigation tools, clip appliers, or the like) or non-articulated (such as cutting blades, cautery probes, irrigators, catheters, suction orifices, or the like). At least one of the robotic manipulator arms (e.g., the center robotic manipulator arm  258 B) is used to support a stereo or three dimensional surgical image capture device  210  such as a stereo endoscope (which may be any of a variety of structures such as a stereo laparoscope, arthroscope, hysteroscope, or the like), or, optionally, some other stereo imaging modality (such as ultrasound, fluoroscopy, magnetic resonance imaging, or the like). Robotic surgery may be used to perform a wide variety of surgical procedures, including but not limited to open surgery, neurosurgical procedures (such as stereotaxy), endoscopic procedures (such as laparoscopy, arthroscopy, thoracoscopy), and the like. 
         [0077]    With continued reference to  FIG. 1 , a user or operator O (generally a surgeon) performs a minimally invasive surgical procedure on patient P, positioned on table T, by manipulating control input devices  260  at a master control console  250 . A computer  251  of the console  250  directs movement of robotically controlled endoscopic surgical instruments  201 A- 201 C by means of one or more control cables  259 , effecting movement of the instruments using a robotic patient-side system  252  (also referred to as a patient-side cart). The robotic patient-side system  252  has one or more robotic arms  258 A,  258 B, and  258 C. In one possible embodiment of the Da Vinci Surgical System, the one or more robotic arms  258 A,  258 B, and  258 C have a strap drive system. Typically, the robotic patient-side system  252  includes at least three robotic manipulator arms  258 A- 258 C supported by linkages  256 , with a central robotic arm  258 B supporting an endoscopic camera  201 B and the robotic arms  258 A,  258 C to left and right of center supporting surgical instruments  201 A and  201 C. 
         [0078]    Further referencing  FIG. 1 , robotic patient-side system  252  generally includes a positioning portion and a driven portion. The positioning portion of the robotic patient-side system  252  remains in a fixed configuration during surgery while manipulating tissue. The driven portion of the robotic patient-side system  252  is actively articulated under the direction of the operator O generating control signals at the surgeon&#39;s console  250  during surgery. The actively driven portion of the robotic patient-side system  252  is generally referred to herein as the robotic arms, or alternatively, robotic surgical manipulators. 
         [0079]    It is understood in the art that a risk exists that the one or more robotic arms  258 A- 258 C may strike the face of a patient during a surgical procedure. This increases the risk of injury to a patient&#39;s face or eye. Thus, a need exists to protect a patients&#39; face during a surgical procedure involving a robotic surgery system  200 . 
         [0080]    As shown in  FIG. 2 , in an embodiment, face mask  10  may comprise a body made from plastic foam material or polyurethane foam material, which can possibly be deformed upon impact by an operating instrument. The body  12  of the face mask  10  may also be somewhat deformed by the face of a patient to form a reasonably comfortable fit between the face of the patient and the face mask  10 . In an embodiment, the face mask  10  may comprise a plastic plate protecting layer, made from hard plastic, which may protect the body  12  of the mask  10  and a patient from moderate to severe impact with an operating instrument or other parts of the movable arms of the robotic operating system. The body  12  of the mask  10  may be made of, for example, a polyethylene foam or alternatively of a polypropylene foam. In order for operating room personnel to be able to observe the eyes of a patient during an operation, an opening  14  is provided in the body  12  of the mask  10 . Further, in order for operating room personnel to be able to observe the intubation in the mouth of a patient during an operation an opening  16  is provided in the body  12  of the mask  10 . As shown in  FIG. 2 , the opening  16  extends from the opening  14 . One or more side notch  18  may be included and configured to allow operating room staff to intubate a patient, shown in dotted lines in  FIG. 2 . One or more straps  20  may be configured to hold the face mask  10  to a patient may be provided. 
         [0081]      FIG. 3  depicts an embodiment including side notch  18 , which permits intubation equipment to pass through the mask  10 . One or more strap  20  is connected to the mask  10  in order to hold the mask  10  in place on a patient. In an embodiment, a protecting layer  24 , which may protect the body  12  of the mask  10  from moderate or severe impact with an operating instrument or other parts of the movable arms of the robotic operating system, is also shown in  FIG. 3 . In an embodiment, protecting layer  24  may be made from hard plastic. Alternatively, metal such as aluminum or another material such as a ceramic, could be used in an embodiment of protecting layer  24 . 
         [0082]    As shown in  FIG. 4 , in an embodiment a layer of viscoelastic foam  22  may be attached to the body  12  of the mask  10  and configured to contact the face of a patient during use. The viscoelastic foam layer  22  may generally conform to the face of a patient in order to distribute the load of the mask  10  over the face of a patient in a relatively comfortable manner. An embodiment of protecting layer  24  is also shown. 
         [0083]    In embodiments, protecting layer  24  may be made from a number of hard plastic materials, such as those used for hockey masks, such as, for example, fiberglass, Kevlar, thermoplastic composites, or thermoset composites. 
         [0084]    In the possible embodiment, the body  12  of the mask  10  may be about twelve inches long and about ten inches wide. Opening  14  may be about two and a half inches long and about five and a half inches wide. Opening  16  may be about three and a half inches long and about three inches wide. The one or more side notch  18  for an intubation tube may be about one inch long and span the width of the face mask  10 . In an embodiment, opening  16  may be disposed about two inches from the bottom side of the face mask  10 . An embodiment of opening  14  may be disposed about four inches from the top side of the face mask  10 . Measurements of other possible embodiments may be greater or lesser than the values disclosed above. 
         [0085]      FIG. 5  shows a front view of an embodiment of a face mask  10   a  in which the corners of the face mask  10   a  are curved. The face mask  10   a  comprises a body  12   a  which is rounded at the corners, and may be comprised of a foam. The face mask  10   a  also comprises the opening  14 , the opening  16 , one or more side notch  18  for an intubation tube, and a strap  20 . 
         [0086]      FIG. 6  shows a side view of an embodiment of the face mask  10   a  of  FIG. 5 . The face mask  10   a  comprises a body  12   a , opening  14  for viewing a patient&#39;s eyes, one or more side notch  18  for an intubation tube, and strap  20 . In yet another embodiment of the present application, the strap  20  could be replaced with other means for connecting the face mask  10   a  to a head rest unit  90  (not shown) such as screws and threaded holes or unthreaded holes or the like such as spring connectors that engage a tang. 
         [0087]    In an embodiment, a patient could be lying face down on a medical procedure table. In such a configuration, the back of the patient&#39;s head would then be facing upward, and therefore the protecting layer  24  of the mask would be disposed on the portion of the patient protection system facing upward, which would be above the back portion of the patient&#39;s head. 
         [0088]    In an embodiment, the side of the head could be covered by the part of the patient protection system facing upward. 
         [0089]      FIG. 7  shows an embodiment of face mask  10   a  of  FIGS. 5 and 6  from an end of the mask  10   a , but without viscoelastic material on the inside thereof. The mask  10   a  comprises the body  12   a  and the strap  20 . It should be understood that embodiments of mask  10   a  may include a viscoelastic foam inner layer  22 . 
         [0090]    As shown in  FIG. 8 , the patient protection system may also comprise a head rest  80  as well as a face mask. One possible embodiment of a head rest  80  is shown in  FIG. 8 , and may be comprised of a plastic foam material or polyurethane foam material. As shown in  FIG. 8 , the strap  20  of a face mask of the present application may be connectable to a head rest  80 . A hook and loop arrangement  82  is shown on the sides of the head rest  80  to which the straps  20 , which also comprise a hook and loop arrangement, can be attached to an embodiment of head rest  80 . In at least one possible embodiment of the present application, the head rest  80  may comprise a protecting layer  86  configured to provide additional protection to a patient while in a face-down position. In embodiments, protecting layer  86  may comprise hard plastic. Alternatively, metal such as aluminum or another material such as a ceramic, may be used. Also shown in  FIG. 8  is a layer  84  of viscoelastic foam. The layer  84  of the head rest  80  may be configured to contact the back of a patient&#39;s head in order to provide a somewhat comfortable head rest for a patient. However, it should be understood that embodiments of head rest  80  may not include a viscoelastic layer  84  and/or protecting layer  86 . 
         [0091]      FIG. 9  shows an embodiment of head rest unit  90  with a hollowed out area  92  into which the back of the head of the patient can be disposed. This hollowed out area  92  is in one embodiment also lined with a viscoelastic material foam which conforms substantially to the head of patient to cradle the back of the head as comfortably as possible. In various embodiments, hollowed out area  92  may extend through head rest unit  90 , or a portion thereof. An embodiment may include one or more hook and loop arrangements  94 , configured to interact with strap  20 . In an embodiment, the head rest unit  90  may not comprise a hole, and may substantially comprise viscoelastic foam. 
         [0092]      FIG. 10  shows a side view of an embodiment of head rest unit  90  with a hook and loop arrangement  94  disposed thereon. 
         [0093]      FIG. 11  is a perspective view of an embodiment of the face mask  10  as shown in  FIGS. 2-4 . The face mask  10  comprises the body  12 , the opening  14  configured to allow observation of a patient&#39;s eyes, the opening  16  configured to allow observation of intubation, the one or more side notch  18  configured to receive an intubation tube, the one or more strap  20 , and a viscoelastic inner layer  22 . 
         [0094]      FIG. 12  is a perspective view of an embodiment of the face mask  10   a  as shown in  FIGS. 5-7 . The face mask  10   a  comprises a body  12   a , an opening configured to allow observation of a patient&#39;s eyes  14 , an opening configured to allow of observation of intubation  16 , the one or more side notch  18  configured to receive an intubation tube, and the strap  20 . 
         [0095]      FIG. 13  is a perspective view of an embodiment of a head rest unit  90 . The head rest unit  90  comprises the strap receiving members  82 . The strap receiving members  82  may comprise a hook and loop arrangement. In embodiments, the strap receiving members may comprise magnets, snaps, adhesives, or other fixing mechanisms. The head rest unit  90  also may comprise a viscoelastic foam layer  84  and the hollowed out area  92 . 
         [0096]      FIG. 14  shows a perspective view of an embodiment of a head rest  80  as shown in  FIG. 7 . The embodiment of head rest  80  does not comprise a hollowed out area. The embodiment of head rest  80  comprises strap receiving members  82  and the viscoelastic foam layer  84 . 
         [0097]      FIG. 15  shows an embodiment of the patient protection system in use, comprising the face mask  10   a  and the head rest  80 .  FIG. 14  shows the patient protection system for exemplary purposes. In an embodiment, the face mask  10   a  and the head rest  80  may not touch during use. In another possible embodiment, the face mask  10   a  and the head rest  80  may touch during use. The face mask  10   a  comprises the body  12   a , the opening  14  configured for eye observation, the opening  16  configured for intubation observation, the one or more side notches  18  configured for intubation of a patient, and strap  20 . The head rest  80  comprises the strap receiving member  82 , the viscoelastic foam layer  84 , and the hollowed out area  92 . The strap  20  of the face mask  10   a  is configured to attach to the strap receiving member  82  to hold the face mask  10   a  in place over a patient&#39;s head. The strap  20  and the strap receiving member  82  may comprise hook and loop arrangements, magnets, snaps, adhesives, or other attaching mechanisms. 
         [0098]      FIG. 16  is a diagram of another embodiment of the patient protection system of the present application for use during robotic surgery or a medical procedure, for example, such as back surgery. The face mask portion  10  of the patient protection system is disposed below head portion  70 , so that the patient can lie in the prone position, i.e. face down, with the patient&#39;s face in the face mask portion  10  and the back of the head portion  70  disposed above and on top of the back of the patient&#39;s head. The back of the head portion  70  may comprise a hard plastic covering to protect the back of the patient&#39;s head from robotic instruments. The strap  20  is configured and disposed to attach the back of the head portion  70  to the face mask  10 . 
         [0099]    In  FIG. 17 , an embodiment of mask  500  is shown with one or more protection plates  502  affixed in place and embedded protection plates  504  inserted within the mask  500 . One or more protection plates  502  may be affixed by gluing, mechanical fastening, or by another mechanism known in the art. In embodiments, protection plates  502  and embedded protection plates  504  may comprise a plastic material. Plates  502  and  504  may also comprise metal, ceramic, polymer, or any other material known in the art. Embodiments of body  510  of mask  500  may be comprised of a foam, polyurethane, or other material known in the art. A chin area channel  512  may be included in body  510  in order to ease intubation during a surgical procedure. 
         [0100]    In  FIG. 18 , an embodiment of mask  500  is shown from the side with the plastic protection plates  502  glued in place and the embedded protection plates  504  inserted within the mask  500 . One or more intubation notches  514  may be included in body  510  in order to ease intubation during a surgical procedure. 
         [0101]    In  FIG. 19 , the mask  500  is shown from the bottom side with the plastic protection plates  502  affixed in place. 
         [0102]      FIG. 20  shows a back view of an embodiment of mask  500 . In  FIG. 20 , foam relief pads  506   a - 506   e  are positioned within the inside of embodiments of mask  500 . In an embodiment, one or more foam relief pads  506   a - 506   e  may comprise a viscoelastic foam which is softer than the viscoelastic foam of the mask  500 . Foam relief pads  506   a - 506   e  may support mask  500  on a patient&#39;s face, and may provide more comfort than the material comprising body  510 . In an embodiment, mask  500  also may include a depression  520  configured to receive the chin of a patient. In an embodiment, relief pads  506   a  and  506   b  may be positioned within chin depression  520 . 
         [0103]    In  FIG. 21 , an embodiment of embedded protective plates  504  is shown away from body  510  of mask  500 . 
         [0104]      FIG. 22  shows a side view of the embodiment of embedded protective plates  504  of  FIG. 41 . 
         [0105]      FIG. 23  shows a front view of an embodiment of the mask  1000  wherein the protection plates  1002  and  1003  are affixed to the surface of the mask  1000 . As with other embodiments of protection plates  504  and  502 , these plates may be comprised of materials including, but not limited to, hard plastic, polymers, metal, or ceramic, and may be affixed to the surface of the mask  1000  by means of, or in other manners known in the art. An embodiment in which protection plates  1002  and  1003  are affixed to the surface of the mask includes an added advantage in that, if a robotic arm strikes the surface of the plates, a louder sound may be created than if the arm were to strike a surface made out of viscoelastic foam, non-viscoelastic polyurethane foam, or other, softer material. 
         [0106]      FIG. 24  shows a side view of the embodiment of mask  1000  depicted in  FIG. 23 . One or more side channels  1004  is visible in this Figure. 
         [0107]    An inside portion of mask  1000  may comprise foam relief pads  506   a - 506   e , as shown in  FIG. 20 . 
         [0108]    The embodiment of mask  1000  in  FIG. 23  also comprises a chin area channel  1001 . Like side channels  1004 , and side notch  18  illustrated in  FIG. 3 , chin area channel  1001  may be used by operating room personnel to intubate the patient. Chin area channel  1001  may be secured with a chin strap  1007 . In an embodiment, chin strap  1007  may comprise a hook portion  1008  and a loop portion  1009 , as shown in  FIGS. 25-27 . Additional detail of an embodiment the chin strap  1007  is illustrated in  FIG. 25-27 . One or more of said hook and loop portions  1008  and  1009  may be affixed to the mask  1000  or chin protection plates  1003  by means of adhesives, ultrasonic welding, or other methods known in the art. Chin area channel  1001  also may be secured by means of snap closures, or other means known in the art. 
         [0109]    An embodiment of mask  1000  illustrated in  FIG. 23  also may include an eye shield  1200 . Eye shield  1200  may be comprised of a transparent or translucent plastic or polymer, such as—but not limited to—polyethylene. Eye shield  1200  may be configured so that it is removable, or non-removable. In an embodiment, eye shield  1200  may be affixed in a manner that allows it to be opened or closed at the discretion of operating room personnel. In one such embodiment, shown in  FIG. 23 , eye shield  1200  is affixed to one side of mask  1000  with adhesive, and to the other side by means of a hook and loop mechanism  1201 , and may be opened and closed. In embodiments, eye shield  1200  may by adhesive tape. Eye shield  1200  protects or substantially protects a patient&#39;s eyes during a surgical procedure, and may have rounded corners. Additionally or alternatively, the edges of eye shield  1200  may be covered with a protective material or coating. 
         [0110]    An embodiment of mask  1000  illustrated at  FIG. 23  may be secured to a patient or to a head rest by means of two straps. In an embodiment, top strap  1101  affixes to forehead channel  1006 , and bottom strap  1102  affixes roughly at cheek portions  1010  of mask  1000  or protection plate  1002 . In an embodiment, straps  1101  and  1102  comprise a loop material, and affix to hook portions  1103  and  1104  positioned in the forehead channel  1006  and the cheek portions of the mask  1000 , respectively. In an embodiment, one or more straps  1101  and or  1102  may also comprise hook portions, so that they may affix to their own loop portions. 
         [0111]      FIG. 28  shows an embodiment of mask  1000  affixed to a head rest  1300  by means of top strap  1101  and bottom strap  1102 . In an embodiment, both straps  1101  and  1102  comprise loop material. A first end of top strap  1101  removably affixes to hook portions  1103  disposed in forehead channel  1006 , wraps around mask  1000  and headrest  1300 . Top strap  1101  removably attaches to itself around headrest  1300  and mask  1000  with hook portions included on a second end of top strap  1101 . In another embodiment, both ends of top strap  1101  may attach to hook portions attached to the mask  1000 . 
         [0112]    In an embodiment shown in  FIG. 28 , bottom strap  1102  removably attaches to hook portions  1103  disposed on cheek portions  1010  of mask  1000  or protection plate  1002 , and wrap around head rest  1300 . 
         [0113]      FIG. 29  illustrates a top view of an embodiment of mask  1000  removably affixed to head rest  1300  by means of straps  1101  and  1102 . In this Figure, mask  1000  is superimposed over head rest  1300 . 
         [0114]    The viscoelastic foam of the present application may be a polyurethane foam made by mixing polyhydroxy polyol with toluene di-isocyanate or other and different methods as are known in the art. For example, Toluene di-isocyanate may be used in combination with polyester polyols and polyether to make viscoelastic foam. 
         [0115]    The headrest and face mask of the present application can be used in conjunction with the METHOD OF SECURING A PATIENT ONTO AN OPERATING TABLE WHEN THE PATIENT IS IN THE TRENDELENBURG POSITION AND APPARATUS THEREFOR INCLUDING A KIT, U.S. Pat. No. 8,464,720, U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/737,552, filed on Jan. 9, 2013, having inventors Alessio PIGAZZI and Glenn KEILAR, and U.S. Pat. No. 8,511,314, U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/773,290, filed on Feb. 21, 2013, having inventors Alessio PIGAZZI and Glenn KEILAR. 
         [0116]    The components disclosed in the patents, patent applications, patent publications, and other documents disclosed or incorporated by reference herein, may possibly be used in possible embodiments of the present invention, as well as equivalents thereof. 
         [0117]    The description of the technical field is believed, at the time of the filing of this patent application, to adequately describe the technical field of this patent application. However, the description of the technical field may not be completely applicable to the claims as originally filed in this patent application, as amended during prosecution of this patent application, and as ultimately allowed in any patent issuing from this patent application. Therefore, any statements made relating to the technical field are not intended to limit the claims in any manner and should not be interpreted as limiting the claims in any manner. 
         [0118]    International Patent Application No. PCT/US2013/020824, filed on Jan. 9, 2013, having inventors Alessio PIGAZZI and Glenn KEILAR, and title METHOD OF SECURING A PATIENT ONTO AN OPERATING TABLE WHEN THE PATIENT IS IN THE TRENDELENBURG POSITION AND APPARATUS THEREFOR INCLUDING A KIT, is hereby incorporated by reference as if set forth in its entirety herein. 
         [0119]    An example of a robotic surgery system, such as the Da Vinci Surgical System, is made by Intuitive Surgical, Inc., located at 1266 Kifer Road #101, Sunnyvale, Calif. 94086. 
         [0120]    U.S. Pat. No. 8,066,524, having the title SURGICAL SYSTEM WITH ELECTRO-MECHANICAL INTERFACES TO MOUNT ROBOTIC SURGICAL ARMS, issued on Nov. 29, 2011, is hereby incorporated by reference as if set forth in its entirety herein. 
         [0121]    Kevlar® is a registered trademark for a para- 904  aramid synthetic fiber registered to DuPont, headquartered at 1007 Market Street, 906 Wilmington, Del. 19898, USA. Some examples of Kevlar® which may possibly be utilized in at least one possible embodiment of the present application, may possibly be found in the following U.S. Pat. No. 8,302,213, having the title “Helmets and vests,” issued on Nov. 6, 2012; and U.S. Pat. No. 4,574,105, having the title “Penetration resistant textile panels with plies of nylon and plies of Kevlar,” issued on Mar. 4, 1986. 
         [0122]    Some examples of viscoelastic foam, which may possibly be utilized in at least one possible embodiment of the present application, may possibly be found in the following U.S. Pat. No. 7,078,443, having the title “Viscoelastic foam layer and composition,” issued on Jul. 18, 2006; U.S. Pat. No. 8,399,085, having the title “Energy-absorbing pads,” issued on Mar. 19, 2013; U.S. Pat. No. 8,359,689, having the title “Mattress adapted for supporting heavy weight persons,” issued on Jan. 29, 2013; U.S. Pat. No. 7,789,461, having the title “Seating accessory,” issued on Sep. 7, 2010; U.S. Pat. No. 6,895,619, having the title “Foldable pillow,” issued on May 24, 2005; and U.S. Pat. No. 6,453,476, having the title “Protective helmet,” issued on Sep. 24, 2002, which are hereby incorporated by reference into this application. 
         [0123]    Some examples of polyethylene foam, which may possibly be utilized in at least one possible embodiment of the present application, may possibly be found in the following U.S. patents: U.S. Pat. No. 6,245,266, having the title “Method for making oriented polyethylene foam and foam produced thereby”, issued on Jun. 12, 2001; U.S. Pat. No. 5,206,082, having the title “Nondistorted polyethylene foam structures and process for making”, issued on Apr. 27, 1993; U.S. Pat. No. 4,877,814, having the title “Process for producing open-cell polyethylene foam materials and the resultant product”, issued on Oct. 31, 1989; U.S. Pat. No. 4,719,039, having the title “Electrically conductive polyethylene foam,” issued on Jan. 12, 1988; U.S. Pat. No. 4,220,730, having the title “Crosslinked chlorinated polyethylene foam”, issued on Sep. 2, 1980; and U.S. Pat. No. 4,209,473, having the title “Crosslinked chlorinated polyethylene foam”, issued on Jun. 24, 1980, all of which are hereby incorporated by reference into this application. 
         [0124]    Some examples of polypropylene foam, which may possibly be utilized in at least one possible embodiment of the present application, may possibly be found in the following U.S. patents: U.S. Pat. No. 7,799,841, having the title “Polypropylene foam”, issued on Sep. 21, 2010; U.S. Pat. No. 7,759,404, having the title “Inherently open celled polypropylene foam with large cell size”, issued on Jul. 20, 2010; U.S. Pat. No. 6,773,796, having the title “Thermoformable multi-layer polypropylene foam sheet”, issued on Aug. 10, 2004; U.S. Pat. No. 947 5,567,742, having the title “Dimensionally-stable polypropylene foam expanded with inorganic blowing agents”, issued on Oct. 22, 1996; U.S. Pat. No. 5,527,573, having the title “Extruded closed-cell polypropylene foam”, issued on Jun. 18, 1996; and U.S. Pat. No. 5,180,751, having the title “Polypropylene foam sheets”, issued on Jan. 19, 1993, all of which are hereby incorporated by reference into this application. 
         [0125]    All of the references and documents cited in any of the patents, patent applications, patent publications, and other documents cited herein, except for the exceptions indicated herein, are hereby incorporated by reference as if set forth in their entirety herein except for the exceptions indicated herein. All of the patents, patent applications, patent publications, and other documents cited herein, referred to in the immediately preceding sentence, include all of the patents, patent applications, patent publications, and other documents cited anywhere in the present application. 
         [0126]    It is to be understood that the invention may assume various alternative variations, except where expressly specified to the contrary. It is also to be understood that the specific devices illustrated in the attached drawings, and described in the specification, are simply exemplary embodiments of the invention. Although the invention has been described in detail for the purpose of illustration based on what is currently considered to be the most practical and preferred embodiments, it is to be understood that such detail is solely for that purpose and that the invention is not limited to the disclosed embodiments, but, on the contrary, is intended to cover modifications and equivalent arrangements that are within the spirit and scope thereof. For example, it is to be understood that the present invention contemplates that, to the extent possible, one or more features of any embodiment can be combined with one or more features of any other embodiment. The embodiments of the invention described herein above in the context of the preferred embodiments are not to be taken as limiting the embodiments of the invention to all of the provided details thereof, since modifications and variations thereof may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the embodiments of the invention.