Abstract: Continuous performance monitoring and an automated alert system are provided for a postoperative fluid drainage procedure. The system uses an automated controller in communication with at least one sensor that monitors the amount of liquid collected during the procedure. The controller compares current collection data with historical collection data to identify trends that can be indicative of problems in the patient's recovery or in system drainage. Upon identifying such trends, the controller automatically provides an alarm to alert the care provider so that the system can be checked and remedial action taken.

Abstract: In accordance with one embodiment of the invention, there is provided a wound drainage system for draining fluid from a wound of a patient. The system includes a drain catheter. A suction means applies suction at the drain catheter such that fluid is drawn from the wound. While drawing fluid from the wound, a controller periodically increases and decreases the application of suction at the drain catheter. This allows the tissue surrounding the wound drain to relax, thus preventing obstruction of the drain catheter.

Abstract: Continuous performance monitoring and an automated alert system are provided for a postoperative fluid drainage procedure. The system uses an automated controller in communication with at least one sensor that monitors the amount of liquid collected during the procedure. The controller compares current collection data with historical collection data to identify trends that can be indicative of problems in the patient's recovery or in system drainage. Upon identifying such trends, the controller automatically provides an alarm to alert the care provider so that the system can be checked and remedial action taken.

Abstract: Flow control safeguards are integrated into a blood collection system on a disposable component such as the post-operative surgical drain tube leading from the patient to the collection device. One aspect of the invention prevents suction levels that are too high for the tissue and organs adjacent at the surgical site by providing a vacuum relief valve integrated into the drain tube. In another aspect of the invention, reverse flow of fluid back to the patient is prevented by integration of an anti-reflux valve into the surgical drain tubing.

Abstract: In accordance with one embodiment of the invention, there is provided a wound drainage system for draining fluid from a wound of a patient. The system includes a drain catheter. A suction means applies suction at the drain catheter such that fluid is drawn from the wound. While drawing fluid from the wound, a controller periodically increases and decreases the application of suction at the drain catheter. This allows the tissue surrounding the wound drain to relax, thus preventing obstruction of the drain catheter.

Abstract: The present invention pertains to an orthopedic support having a flexible inner member and an exo-skeleton that is molded directly onto the flexible inner member. In one particular embodiment, a versatile, multi-medium orthopedic ankle support assembly has an inner fabric support for extending at least partially around an injured part of the anatomy and for providing basic support for the injury. A plastic exo-support is injection molded into said fabric support and supplies supplemental support for resisting motion of the injured part in undesired directions. The fabric support has a main body portion for extending at least part way around the injured part of the anatomy and has edges to be secured together after the fabric support is fitted to the injured part. The invention is not limited to ankle braces, of course, as the general principle of molding an exo-skeleton onto a flexible inner member may be used in conjunction with numerous different supports.