Abstract: A hydrophilic textile matrix having antibiotic activity is provided. The textile matrix is a non-woven material including a blend (i.e., mixture) of metallic silver-coated fibers and a non-metallic, water absorbent material. Wound dressings incorporating the textile matrices are provided.

Abstract: An absorptive wound covering protecting material and a method for preparing an absorptive wound covering protecting material are characterized by solidifying a sponge raw solution containing no reinforcement that is obtained by mixing viscose and crystalline mirabilite as main raw materials, or a sponge raw solution obtained by mixing viscose containing a reinforcement comprising natural fibers having a length of at least 5 mm to 40 mm, and crystalline mirabilite as main raw materials, by performing a heat treatment on the sponge raw solution, and then forming the solidified cellulose sponge in a thickness somewhat greater than a desired thickness, and then forming the cellulose sponge in a sheet form having a desired thickness by compressing the cellulose sponge, and, if required, carboxymethylating hydroxyl groups in a glucose unit constituting a cellulose sponge so that a degree of substitution of the hydroxyl groups is from 0.5 to less than 1.0, and then, forming an incision the cellulose sponge.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for forming a microfiber coating includes directing a liquid solution toward a deposition surface. The apparatus includes a tube defining a volume through which the liquid solution travels. An electric field is applied between the origin of the liquid solution and the surface. A gas is injected into the tube to create a vortex flow within the tube. This vortex flow protects the deposition surface from entrainment of ambient air from the surrounding atmosphere.

Abstract: The invention relates to a cooling article comprising a polymer absorbent enclosed within a bag delimited by a collapsible envelope having non-watertight walls, wherein said polymer absorbent is under the form of particles each of which comprises a core of less cross-linked polymer sequences more active in retaining absorbed water and a shell of more cross-linked polymer sequences apt to retard diffusion of water from a particle to another during desorption of absorbed water.

Abstract: Nasal dilators and strips, methods of their manufacture, and methods for improving the breathing of individuals are provided. The strips and dilators include an elongated substrate, with or without a dilating component or portion, having top and bottom surfaces and a pressure-sensitive adhesive disposed on the bottom surface. The dilator is designed to provide a gentle expanding force to the nasal wall tissue when the dilator is adhesively attached to the nose. This invention further includes a cosmetic fragrance, an aromatic medication and/or transdermal medication disposed on the strips or dilators. In order to improve the shelf-life and in-use olfactory effectiveness of such products, fragrance delivery mechanisms are used. Separation of volatile oils and adhesives are also provided to minimize adhesive residue.

Abstract: The present medical pressure-sensitive adhesive tape or sheet, comprises: a supporting base material; and an adhesive layer laminated directly or indirectly on the supporting base material, wherein the supporting base material contains: 1 to 50 parts by weight of at least one selected from the group consisting of a fatty acid, a fatty acid ester, a fatty acid amide, a higher alcohol, and a metal soap; and 100 parts by weight of at least one resin selected from the group consisting of an olefin thermoplastic elastomer, a styrene thermoplastic elastomer, and a polyester thermoplastic elastomer.

Abstract: A novel fiber comprising a substantially homogeneous mixture of a hydrophilic polymer and a polymer which is at least weakly hydrophobic is disclosed. The fiber optionally contains a pH adjusting compound. A method of making the fiber comprises electrospinning fibers of the substantially homogeneous polymer solution. A method of treating a wound or other area of a patient requiring protection from contamination comprises electrospinning the substantially homogeneous polymer solution to form a dressing. An apparatus for electrospinning a wound dressing is discosed.

Abstract: A pad comprising an approximate-quadrangular portion and approximate-arched portions attached to both lateral sides of the approximate-quadrangular portion and all the periphery of said pad is sealed with ultrasonic treatment wherein: when L represents the length of the approximate-quadrangular portion in the direction parallel to the lateral axis, S represents the length of the approximate-quadrangular portion in the direction parallel to the vertical axis and R represents a radius of said approximate-arched portion, following relations are satisfied: 0.5S≦L≦4S between L and S; 0.5S≦R<S between S and R, the production method and the adhesive bandage using said pad. The pad prevents peeling-off from four corners thereof and intrusion of water.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a medicinal product with a textile component such as a wound compress having a surface containing a multiplicity of openings arranged in at least two hole patterns. The diameter of one opening of one hole pattern deviates from the diameter of an opening of another hole pattern by about at least a factor of 5. Better wound healing is achieved by adapting the structural and mechanical characteristics of the medicinal product to the characteristics of the target tissue.

Abstract: A polypropylene blend including from 0.5 to 50% by weight of a syndiotactic polypropylene having a multimodal molecular weight distribution and at least 50% by weight of an isotactic polypropylene.

Abstract: The object is to provide an absorptive wound covering protecting material and a method for preparing the same which is quite excellent in an absorptiveness and a liquid-holding property, and is superior in shape-maintaining ability and strength, and wherein a reinforcement can be used and workability is improved, as well as a hemostatic wound healing effect can be enhanced, compared to an absorptive wound covering protecting material comprising a thinly solidified cellulose sponge.

Abstract: An elastic bandage is disclosed having a nonelastic absorbent nonwoven web, a non-elastic breathable nonwoven web, and a meltspun elastomeric material disposed between the two webs. The meltspun elastomeric material can comprise a plurality of meltspun elastomeric filaments aligned in substantially parallel distribution in a machine direction, the filaments attached to a side of the nonelastic breathable nonwoven web and to a side of the nonelastic absorbent nonwoven web. The nonelastic absorbent nonwoven web can comprise a laminate of nonwoven layers. The non-elastic breathable nonwoven web can comprise a breathable film bonded to a nonwoven layer or laminate individual nonwoven layers. A self adherent coating may be disposed upon an outer surface of the elastic bandage.

Abstract: A hospital type of bandage integrates an absorbent pad and non-stick layer with a fluid-impermeable outer layer and an adhesive in a single composite structure. In a preferred embodiment the invention further includes means which may be used to turn the bandage inside out upon removal, so that surfaces once contacting a patient are no longer externally exposed. A bandage according to the invertible embodiment preferably includes a pocket formed on the side of the bandage facing away from the patient after application, this pocket being large enough to accommodate at least a portion of a human hand, and inside this pocket and located opposite the entrance is a means for grasping which may be pulled outwardly through pocket opening, thereby inverting the entire structure. Various forms of devices for grasping are possible as alternatives, including a string, a tab and a tab with one or more finger-receiving holes.

Abstract: A wound dressing includes a first and a second absorbent layer, each absorbent layer being of a non-woven fabric of fibers, and each being able to absorb liquid and a screen comprising polyester and cotton fibers between, and bonded to, the two absorbent layers. The bonded absorbent layers and the screen form essentially a single, layered fabric body. The bonding between the first and second absorbent layers and the screen is brought about by a needle-punching process in which the punching density is 1700-1900 punches per square cm.

Abstract: This invention relates to methods of promoting the healing of skin wounds, products for promoting the healing of skin wounds and processes for making such products. More particularly, this invention relates to layered absorbent dressings which absorb wound exudate in conjunction with additional products for assisting the healing of wounds at each stage of wound healing, as well as methods of using these dressings and methods of making these dressings.

Abstract: Anti-snoring devices, more specifically to externally worn anti-snoring devices covering essentially a wearer's mouth and being adhesively attached to a wearers skin in the peri-oral area are described. The articles utilise an improved adhesive so as to facilitate easy application and removal of the article from the wearer, whilst ensuring maintenance of the article in the desired position. In particular the adhesives provide attachment on greasy and oily skin.

Abstract: A pad comprising an approximate-quadrangular portion and approximate-arched portions attached to both lateral sides of the approximate-quadrangular portion and all the periphery of said pad is sealed with ultrasonic treatment wherein: when L represents the length of the approximate-quadrangular portion in the direction parallel to the lateral axis, S represents the length of the approximate-quadrangular portion in the direction parallel to the vertical axis and R represents a radius of said approximate-arched portion, following relations are satisfied: 0.5S:≦L≦4S between L and S; 0.5S≦R≦S between S and R, the production method and the adhesive bandage using said pad. The pad prevents peeling-off from four corners thereof and intrusion of water.

Abstract: A pad comprising an approximate-quadrangular portion and approximate-arched portions attached to both lateral sides of the approximate-quadrangular portion and all the periphery of said pad is sealed with ultrasonic treatment wherein: when L represents the length of the approximate-quadrangular portion in the direction parallel to the lateral axis, S represents the length of the approximate-quadrangular portion in the direction parallel to the vertical axis and R represents a radius of said approximate-arched portion, following relations are satisfied: 0.5S≦L≦4S between L and S; 0.5S≦R <S between S and R, the production method and the adhesive bandage using said pad. The pad prevents peeling-off from four corners thereof and intrusion of water.

Abstract: An immediate and visible temporary cosmetic improvement in skin condition is obtained by a multi-stage exfoliation method having one of several visible end points. Preferred methods involve repeatedly attaching specularly reflective exfoliation sheets having a pressure sensitive adhesive to a selected part of the user's body and then removing each sheet by grasping one edge and pulling it along the user's body. After each repetition the user inspects either the sheet that has just been removed, or a blemished area of the body to monitor the amount of exfoliated tissue. When the amount of tissue on a sheet is discernibly less than that removed in the immediately previous repetition, when a pattern of tissue on a sheet matches a pattern on a comparison strip, or when the blemish has been substantially reduced in size, the process is completed.

Abstract: A bandage for treatment of wounds is described, including a wound overlay, which contains the secretion of fly larvae. The wound overlay can be a single pouch or may be subdivided into chambers, which enclose living fly larvae. It is likewise possible to soak or permeate the wound overlay with the secretion of fly larvae.

Abstract: The invention relates to the use of a non-woven fabric which is over-stitched by means of stitching threads as a supporting material for medical purposes. The invention is characterized in that the maximum tensile force of supporting material is equal to at least 30 N/cm and at least one side of the supporting material is partially or completely coated with a self-adhesive mass.

Abstract: Silk clothes for protecting affected parts (incised wound, burn, tumor, bedsore, etc.) which also contribute to the prevention of suppurating. These clothes are composed of a knitted woven silk fabric or non-woven silk fabric (silk floss, etc.) containing either Sasa veitchii or a parabenzoic acid ester or both of the same and being adhered to a non-woven fabric made of cellulose, etc.

Abstract: A wound dressing well suited for mass production on manufacturing assembly lines and having a non-woven fabric reservoir for receiving and retaining wound exudate sandwiched between inner and outer layers of non-woven fabric, the inner layer being adapted for covering a wound, the outer layer being air- and vapor-permeable, but bulk water- and bacteria-impermeable, the inner layer having a plurality of spaced tapering elevations of non-woven fabric, the tapered ends of which are provided with a pressure-sensitive adhesive for adhering the dressing covering a patient's wound.

Abstract: An elastic bandage is disclosed having a nonelastic absorbent nonwoven web, a non-elastic breathable nonwoven web, and a meltspun elastomeric material disposed between the two webs. The meltspun elastomeric material can comprise a plurality of meltspun elastomeric filaments aligned in substantially parallel distribution in a machine direction, the filaments attached to a side of the nonelastic breathable nonwoven web and to a side of the nonelastic absorbent nonwoven web. The nonelastic absorbent nonwoven web can comprise a laminate of nonwoven layers. The non-elastic breathable nonwoven web can comprise a breathable film bonded to a nonwoven layer or laminate individual nonwoven layers. A self adherent coating may be disposed upon an outer surface of the elastic bandage.

Abstract: Use of a polymer which is swellable in aqueous media for the manufacture of a wound dressing comprising the polymer to reduce the concentration of superoxide radical in a wound by application of the wound dressing externally thereto. This is believed to reduce the effect of at least certain types of ROS in frustrating the healing of chronic wounds.

Abstract: A pad comprising an approximate-quadrangular portion and approximate-arched portions attached to both lateral sides of the approximate-quadrangular portion and all the periphery of said pad is sealed with ultrasonic treatment wherein: when L represents the length of the approximate-quadrangular portion in the direction parallel to the lateral axis, S represents the length of the approximate-quadrangular portion in the direction parallel to the vertical axis and R represents a radius of said approximate-arched portion, following relations are satisfied: 0.5S≦L ≦4S between L and S; 0.5S≦R<S between S and R, the production method and the adhesive bandage using said pad. The pad prevents peeling-off from four corners thereof and intrusion of water.

Abstract: A laminated composite suitable for use in medical products such as tapes and wraps. The composite includes, for example, a first nonwoven fiber layer, an elastic layer, a melt blown adhesive fiber layer, and a second nonwoven fiber layer. A scrim layer serves as a deadstop, or stretch limit, to prevent over stretching. The non-woven fiber layer(s) and/or the scrim layer form suitable loops for a hook and loop fastening system. The scrim layer in some embodiments is employed to make the composite finger tearable. The melt blown adhesive layer, nonwoven web layer and elastic layer form a breathable, porous elastic composite. Methods of manufacturing the composite are also disclosed.

Abstract: The present invention provides processes by which a polymeric hydrogel can be securely adhered to a substrate to form a hydrogel laminate with greatly improved delamination resistance. The laminate is formed by casting onto a polymeric adhesive-coated substrate an aqueous solution of hydrophilic polymer, then exposing this composite to ionizing radiation which cross-links the hydrophilic polymer to form a hydrogel and also induces copolymerization of the hydrophilic polymer and the adhesive polymer.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a multi-layer exothermic bandage comprising an oxygen-impermeable layer, a water-impermeable layer, a heating element layer comprising an oxidizable material, and an active agent layer; and the use thereof.

Abstract: A medical bandaging material made of a microfilament nonwoven fabric with a mass per unit area of 30 to 150 g/m2 and a tear strength of >40 N/5 cm, the nonwoven fabric being made of continuous multicomponent filaments, melt-spun, stretched, and directly laid down to form a nonwoven fabric, having a titer of 1.5 to 5 dtex, and the continuous multicomponent filaments, after optional prebonding, being split, at least to the extent of 80%, into continuous microfilaments having a titer of 0.01 to 1.0 dtex and bonded.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a collagen material comprising a laminate in which a collagen ultra-fine fibrous non-woven fabric-like multi-layer structure is sandwiched between non-fibrous collagen layers, a thread-like material containing said collagen material, their production processes, and a medical material containing said collagen material, and particularly a medical alternative membrane comprised of said medical material.

Abstract: Protective bandages in accordance with this invention include an anchoring strip having a protective layer on a lower surface thereof for overlying a desired area on a person's skin. Force-transmission-impeding means is provided on the side of the anchoring strip opposed to the side including the protective layer. The force-transmission-impeding means includes a top sheet adhered adjacent peripheral edges thereof to an upper surface of the anchoring strip to define an internal compartment between the anchoring strip and the top sheet. A compressive cushioning member is provided within the internal compartment for absorbing compressive forces, and low friction, relatively movable confronting surfaces are provided within the internal compartment spaced from the upper surface of the anchoring strip to absorb shear forces imposed upon the bandage.

Abstract: A low trauma pressure-sensitive adhesive coated substrate comprising a sheet material, tape or laminate structure designed to adhere to skin or like surfaces. The pressure-sensitive adhesive layer of this adhesive coated substrate is a fibrous adhesive layer generally having a basis weight of from 5 to 200 g/m2 applied to a conformable backing or substrate. The fibrous adhesive layer has a textured outer face and persistent porosity between discrete adhesive fibers. Generally, the fibrous adhesive layer has a MVTR (measured by ASTM E 96-80 at 40° C.) of at least 1000 g/m2/day, preferably at least 6000 g/m2/day.

Abstract: A bandage for treatment of wounds is described, including a wound overlay, which contains the secretion of fly larvae. The wound overlay can be a single pouch or may be subdivided into chambers, which enclose living fly larvae. It is likewise possible to soak or permeate the wound overlay with the secretion of fly larvae.

Abstract: A non-stretching wound dressing is provided for use with a patient. The wound dressing includes a cover sheet having top and bottom sides, a thin film sheet formed on the bottom side of the cover sheet, the film sheet having first and second ends and an adhesive side, and a carrier sheet in adjacent contact with the adhesive side of the thin film sheet. The dressing also includes a first gripping tab attached to one end of the thin film sheet and disposed between the film sheet and the carrier sheet for separating the carrier sheet from the film sheet with the cover sheet remaining affixed to the film sheet. A second gripping tab is attached to the top side of the cover sheet and at one end of the cover sheet so that pulling on the second gripping tab releases the cover sheet from the film sheet with the film sheet remaining in place on the patient.

Abstract: The invention is a foamed, pressure sensitive, hydrocolloid adhesive for bonding to the body, and methods for its manufacture. The foamed structure of the adhesive itself improves absorbency, enables transmission of moisture through the adhesive, increases flexibility, and lowers product cost, all of which are key elements in making a product that is effective in adhering to the body.

Abstract: The invention disclosed herein is a medical pressure dressing. The dressing includes a frame for affixing to skin surrounding the skin treatment site and a strap for covering the frame and wound. The frame has a channel extending therethrough providing an orifice over the skin treatment site. The strap includes, or else includes means for attachment to, a plunger that is shaped for being received downwardly through the channel and against the wound when the strap is extended across the frame. The present application further discloses a process for treating a wound that includes a tissue covered by a skin treatment site. The process includes reducing the elasticity of the skin treatment site by affixing a frame having an elasticity less than the elasticity of the skin treatment site around the skin treatment site, and performing an elasticity-sensitive procedure on the wound. Examples of elasticity-sensitive procedures include pushing, cutting, puncturing, rubbing, and such.

Abstract: This invention relates to a composition containing a hydrophobic solvent, a network polymer and a flow control agent which is useful in healing wounds. The composition of this invention may be applied directly to a wound to create a structured occlusive dressing. The dressings of this invention do not migrate, but maintain their integrity at skin temperature, and encourage the creation of a moist wound environment while protecting the wound in order to accelerate healing.

Abstract: A biodegradable, flexible wound covering based on fibrin and a process for its preparation are described, in which a fibrinogen solution is subjected to a single-stage or multistage dialysis, then a flexible fibrin web is formed by action of an aqueous thrombin solution on the fibrinogen solution and this is subsequently subjected to freeze-drying.

Abstract: A personal care absorbent article comprising a nonwoven material comprising at least one time release additive. Time release of additives is addressed by encapsulating the additive in a large cavity or cage molecule such as cyclodextrin or zeolite.

Abstract: An immediate and visible temporary cosmetic improvement in skin condition is obtained by a multi-stage exfoliation method having a visible end point and providing a margin of safety so that the user's skin is not significantly irritated if he or she ignores the end point and continues to carry out additional and unnecessary exfoliation steps. The preferred method involves repeatedly attaching transparent exfoliation sheets having a pressure sensitive adhesive to a selected part of the user's body and then removing each sheet by grasping one edge and pulling it across the rest of the sheet. A handle may be detachably adhered to each sheet for superior results. After each repetition the user inspects the sheet that has just been removed to monitor the amount of exfoliated tissue. When the amount of tissue on a sheet is discernibly less than that removed in the immediately previous repetition, the process is completed.

Abstract: A film dressing, in particular for the human or animal body, consisting of a flexible, conformable polymer film which is detachably bonded on the side facing away from the skin to a supporting sheet and is provided on the side facing the skin with a pressure sensitive adhesive layer which is in turn provided with an at least two-part protecting layer which can be pulled off, is characterized in that the protecting layer has hinge-like connections at two opposite edges to the supporting sheet.

Abstract: The present invention provides a wound dressing comprising a mixture of textile fibres and gel forming fibres wherein the dressing is a knitted fabric comprising support yarn and in-laid yarn, the support yarn being substantially free of gel-forming fibres.

Abstract: A stress relief system having a headset to be removably worn on a person's head and a portable electrical wave generator assembly. The left and right speakers of the headset are connected to an electricity powered device for playing recorded music. The electrical wave generator assembly is powered by a 9 volt D.C. battery and it has two closed electrical circuits for transmitting that receive an electrical wave from the electrical wave generator. Each of these circuits has a light emitting diode (LED) that radiates light in the infrared and visible nanometer range. The structure for supporting the respective LED's would be a predetermined length of double stranded wire having sufficient flexibility so that it can be bent to direct the light at preselected points on a patient's hands that are identified by the Koryo Hand Therapy Meridians. A finger loop strap is used to locate and support the lights on the user's fingers.

Abstract: A pressure sensitive adhesive tape for skin, including a stretchable base material having good moisture permeability and a pressure sensitive adhesive layer formed on at least one side of the base material, wherein the adhesive tape has features that (a) the conformability to a stretchable film is at most 4.2 times as much as the stress of the stretchable film at 15% elongation, (b) the water-vapor transmission rate is at least 500 g/m2·24 h, and (c) the adhesive strength to bakelite is at most 1.5 N/15 mm, and a base material of a pressure sensitive adhesive tape for skin, including a microporous film formed from a resin composition containing a polyolefin resin and an inorganic filler, and having features that (1) the thickness is 40 to 200 &mgr;m, (2) the average pore size is 0.

Abstract: A porous sheet suitable for use in first-aid sticking plasters, poultices, etc. as the substrate is described. The porous sheet comprises a thermoplastic polymer, and an arbitrary cross section of the porous sheet has a polymer packing of 30 to 90% and contains 2 to 100 polymer sections having a sectional area of 0.001 mm2 or less per millimeter along the surface of the porous sheet. At least one surface of the porous sheet is in net-work structure (a) formed by fiber-like bodies which are integrally bonded to each other at intersections by fusion of polymer constituting the fiber-like bodies and/or net-work structure (b) formed by fiber-like protrusions. With such structures, the porous sheet has a moderate air permeability, and is good in soft texture and highly resistant to fluff formation by rubbing.

Abstract: Ready-made bandage with a self-adhesive coating on at least one side, for restricting stretching or bending of the metacarpophalangeal joint and/or of the wrist, wherein, at the head area (13) of an oblong strip (1), a short rein (41, 42) is arranged on at least one of the two longitudinal sides, encloses an angle of between 30° and 150° with the oblong strip (1) and is applied on the finger in question.

Abstract: A substrate for an adhesive dressing comprising an ethylene/vinyl acetate copolymer having a weight average molecular weight of 1×104 to 1×105, a molecular weight distribution of 4.0 or less, a melt flow rate of 3.0 g/10 minutes or less, and a vinyl acetate content of 15 to 28% by weight is provided and a medical adhesive dressing can be prepared by forming a pressure-sensitive adhesive layer on one surface of the substrate. Further, an adhesive tape can be made by arranging a pad for covering and protecting a wounded portion, on a part of a surface of the pressure-sensitive adhesive layer.

Abstract: A process and device for improved healing of large avulsed or burned tissue which prevents excessive cicatricial, keloid or fibromatoid formation, reduces fluid loss, and increases protection from infection by employing an elastomer matrix; i.e., a thin sheet of elastomer with a plurality of fenestrations, placed on the wound and a bath of oil to cover the matrix. The oil bath is provided by a flexible sealed capsule of thin silicone elastomer, preferably filled with soybean oil that percolates through the walls of the capsule. Enhanced granulation tissue formation is promoted by encapsulation of the wound with the matrix. Granulation tissue engulfs the matrix while the matrix integrity and elastic rigidity acts to reduce scarring. The barrier of the sterile soybean oil bath and the barrier of the elastomer matrix improve antisepsis and acts to reduce loss of body fluids.

Abstract: A guard for isolating patient skin from a medical appliance is formed from a nonwoven fiber web member soft nonadhesive material having a medication dispersed throughout the member. A continuous adhesive layer is attached to a planar surface of the nonwoven fiber web member suitable for attachment to a medical device so as to place the nonwoven fiber web member between the medical appliance and patient skin. The medication within the nonwoven fiber web member releases medicated powder to alleviate skin abrasion and chafing associated with prolonged contact with the medical appliance.