Abstract: The invention includes a wound dressing having a plurality of layers, at least one conduit system, and means for assisting in the healing process. Exemplary means for assisting in the healing process includes a light source that in at least one embodiment provides ultraviolet light and a vibrational energy source such as a transducer. In at least one exemplary embodiment the wound dressing includes measurement means for measuring temperature or pH, and in at least one further exemplary embodiment providing signals to a controller for adjusting the measured parameter in the wound dressing and/or wound site.

Abstract: A medical device preferably includes a tube and at least one adjustable inflatable anchor. The anchor is capable of securing the tube to the patient to resist removal of the tube in the patient when the anchor is inflated within the patient. The anchor slidingly engages the tube such that the insertion depth can be selected by the user. In at least one embodiment, a second inflatable anchor is included for positioning outside of the patient.

Abstract: This invention relates to inflatable anchor members for securing devices in an orifice. Anchor member comprises a fluid tight material having an inflatable interior. The anchor is configured to include an opening for receiving a device. The anchor may be inflated to secure the device within its opening. The anchor includes a fill line for receiving and removing fill material from the anchor. The anchor may be disposed inside the chest of a patient and inflated to secure a chest tube in position without the need for sutures. A second inflatable anchor may be used and positioned on an opposite side of an orifice from the first anchor to hinder movement of a device passing therethrough.

Abstract: The invention is a hub anchor for securing a catheter to a patient's tissue or skin. The hub anchor preferably includes in at least one embodiment includes a body having a pair of walls connected by an activation mechanism having at least one leg in sliding communication with each of the walls. In an engaged state, the legs penetrate a patient's skin and cause the hub to clamp the catheter to the patient. The invention also includes a method of placing the hub over a catheter to be secured and pressing the activation mechanism to pierce the patient's skin with the legs to secure the hub and the catheter to the patient.

Abstract: A self-securing catheter to prevent dislodgement from skin or tissue preferably includes a hub and a cannula with at least one anchoring mechanism extending from the hub and/or the cannula. In some embodiments, the anchoring mechanisms can be flexible to allow them to protrude outwardly from the catheter. The catheter can be easily removed from the patient's tissue or skin by a medical professional with a twisting motion (e.g., clockwise or counterclockwise rotation of the catheter).

Abstract: The invention preferably is a wound dressing system having a dressing and an irrigation system in communication with the dressing. The dressing preferably includes a first layer for contacting the wound/injury site of a patient and a second layer that has a backing layer. The backing layer preferably prevents seepage from the wound and/or moisture within the dressing from soiling the surrounding environment.

Abstract: The invention preferably is a wound dressing system having a dressing and an irrigation system in communication with the dressing. The dressing preferably includes a first layer for contacting the wound/injury site of a patient and a second layer that has a backing layer. The backing layer preferably prevents seepage from the wound and/or moisture within the dressing from soiling the surrounding environment.