Abstract: A thin film device for medical applications such as a wound dressing including an occlusive layer having an edge portion about at least a portion of the thin film device and a non-continuous, hydrocolloid-containing polymeric support layer overlying the edge portion of the occlusive layer.

Abstract: An electrical switch, such as an automotive power window up/down switch, has an electrically conductive dual armature that is normally magnetically held in coupled engagement with a sheet magnet. The dual armature, a rectangular piece of metal, has first and second free ends. If a user applied force acts on the first free end of the dual armature, then the first free end breaks away from the sheet magnet and travels into first electrical contacts that are normally spaced from the dual armature, and the second free end functions as a fulcrum for the dual armature. Conversely, if a user applied force acts on the second free end, then the second free end breaks away from the sheet magnet and travels into second electrical contacts that are normally spaced from the dual armature, and the first free end functions as a fulcrum for the dual armature. Preferably, there is a physical barrier that prevents simultaneous actuation of the two switching functions.

Abstract: An ostomy appliance or wound drainage device having a receptacle side component including a receptacle for receiving and storing waste solids and fluids and a bodyside component for adhering to the patient's skin around the stoma in which the two components are releasably sealed together through a pealable, washable based coupling mechanism.

Abstract: A wound dressing that efficiently absorbs fluid from fluid exuding wounds and can easily be released from the wound without disrupting the wound surface and a process for its manufacture is provided. The dressing comprises a layer of film bonded to a fibrous absorbent web containing a mixture of a particulate superabsorbent and a hydrocolloid. The fibrous absorbent web has a glazed exposed surface wherein the fibers comprising the glazed exposed surface are substantially fused to each other. The glazed exposed surface has a multiplicity of particles comprising a mixture of an adhesive and a hydrocolloid distributed throughout and adherent to the surface. Preferably about 25% to about 50% of the surface is left uncovered by particles comprising the adhesive and the hydrocolloid to enable more efficient transfer of wound exudate into the fibrous absorbent web while the hydrocolloid contained in the particles of adhesive facilitates release of the dressing from the wound without disrupting the surface.

Abstract: A thin film device for medical applications such as a wound dressing including an occlusive layer having an edge portion about at least a portion of the thin film device and a non-continuous, hydrocolloid-containing polymeric support layer overlying the edge portion of the occlusive layer.

Abstract: A device is provided for the topical localized administration of zinc to tissue. The device comprises a central layer of absorbent material, with the central layer containing a mixture of particulate superabsorbent and zinc chloride that is sandwiched between a first and second layer of perforated polymeric film that is sealed at the edges. The device is activated by exposure to aqueous media prior to application to tissue. The quantity of zinc chloride contained in the device is varied according to the intended use. High levels of zinc chloride are used to form more concentrated solutions or gels for fixation of necrotic, gangrenous or cancerous tissue to facilitate excision or amputation while lower levels are used for more dilute solutions or gels to promote formation of granulation tissue and healing of lesions in non-necrotic tissue. The device is wrapped on the site to be treated or attached by adhesive means and is kept in place for a period appropriate to the intended use.

Abstract: A wound dressing having a lower skin-contacting layer, an upper occlusive layer and an absorbent layer therebetween, at least one seal is provided which defines an absorbent region for preventing the migration of body fluids from the absorbent region and to provide a moist wound environment including the optional inclusion of a wound healing substance.

Abstract: An ostomy appliance or wound drainage device having a lower end with an adhesive composition thereon so that when the lower end is folded upon itself, the drainage opening is closed off, or, alternatively, the lower end is made of a material having intrinsic adhesive properties.

Abstract: An ostomy appliance or wound drainage device having a receptacle side component including a receptacle for receiving and storing waste solids and fluids and a bodyside component for adhering to the patient's skin around the stoma in which the two components are releasably sealed together through a pealable, washable based coupling mechanism.

Abstract: A method of treating a wound comprising minimizing pressure on newly formed tissue around the perimeter of the wound by applying within the borders of the wound, a multi-layer laminate having a non-stretchable wound contact layer, a core layer comprising an absorbent material and a stretchable outer surface layer.

Abstract: In accordance with the present invention a novel wound dressing providing superior absorption and preventing leakage is disclosed. The present dressing comprises a hydrocolloid-containing polymeric support layer either continuous or non-continuous and an occlusive backing layer overlying the support. In a preferred embodiment the present dressing further includes an adhesive on a skin-contacting surface of the support and an absorbent region interposed between the support and the backing layer.

Abstract: An annular mounting member is bonded to the pouch wall to define a vent opening. The mounting member is made of material which is compatible with the pouch film and has a smooth exterior surface adapted to facilitate removable mounting of an adhesive coated element in alignment with the opening. The element may be a deodorizing filter assembly including a filter disk surrounded by an annular border member coated with pressure sensitive adhesive or a gas impermeable cover member designed to close the vent.

Abstract: An annular mounting member is bonded to the pouch wall to define a vent opening. The mounting member is made of material which is compatable with the pouch film and has a smooth exterior surface adapted to facilitate removable mounting of an adhesive coated element in alignment with the opening. The element may be a deodorizing filter assembly including a filter disk surrounded by an annular border member coated with pressure sensitive adhesive or a gas impermeable cover member designed to close the vent.

Abstract: In accordance with the present invention an improved adhesive structure for adhesion of an article to a fluid-emitting wound and the surrounding normal skin is disclosed. The adhesive structure comprises a first contact region comprised of a fluid-interactive adhesive material which provides adhesion to the wound and surrounding normal skin; a second contact region comprised of the same or a different adhesive material, which provides adhesion betweeen the first region, or another region integral with the first region, and the article; and, an absorbent region comprised of an absorbent fibrous, fabric or foam material intermediate the first and second regions whereby enhanced cohesion between the first and second regions and between the second region and the article, under conditions of heavy fluid emission, is provided.

Abstract: An ashtray having a top upon which lit cigarettes or the like may be rested and having a plurality of holes therethrough through which smoke from the cigarette may be drawn downwardly through odor-treating material. The holes in the top are such as to permit the smoke-entraining downward flow of air therethrough while yet substantially preventing the passage of cigarette ashes.