Abstract: An epidermal lifting mechanism (10) comprising at least one strip of flexible material (50), first and second end portions (60), a middle portion (70), adhesive material (40), a plurality of resilient spring structures (20, 22, 24) extending through the at least one strip of flexible material, and a flap mechanism (80) integral with the middle portion.

Abstract: Polypropylene fibers and devices that include a fatty acid monoglyceride added to the polypropylene as a melt additive are described. A hydrophilic enhancer material can be advantageously added to the polypropylene as a melt additive to enhance the hydrophilicity of the fibers and devices. An antimicrobial enhancer material can be added to the fibers to enhance the antimicrobial activity.

Abstract: Medical articles including an absorbent layer, a backing layer and an optional liquid permeable facing layer are disclosed. The construction of the medical article is such that volumetric expansion of the absorbent layer is allowed in directions parallel to the surface of the backing layer as the absorbent layer absorbs moisture. The medical article may include a debonding agent located between the absorbent layer and the backing layer. The absorbent layer is operably attached to the backing layer. When the absorbent layer absorbs moisture, e.g., wound exudate, at least a portion of the absorbent layer detaches from the backing layer such that the absorbent layer can expand and move relative to the backing. The debonding agent facilitates this change from attachment to detachment of the absorbent layer to the backing.

Abstract: A product in the form of a segmented strip includes tabs to assist in dispensing individual segments from the strip. Segments of the strip are separated by lines of perforations running transverse to the strip. A tab of sufficient size to be easily grasped is adhesively secured to the strip across the line of perforations. The tab is positioned so that less than half of the area of the tab is disposed on the segment that is the first to be dispensed. The majority of the surface of the tab is disposed on a segment that will be subsequently dispensed. When the first segment is dispensed, the tab is retained on the next segment since the adhered surface on the next segment is greater. The exposed portion of the tab may then be readily located and grasped when the next segment is to be dispensed.

Abstract: An adhesive bandage having a backing material; an adhesive applied to at least one second major surface of the backing material; and a wound contacting pad secured to the backing by a portion of said adhesive. The bandage has a tapered portion and a non-tapered portion. The length of the tapered portion of the bandage ranges from about 30% to about 70% of the total length of the bandage.

Abstract: A transparent film dressing for wounds and intravenous catheter sites and a method for applying such a dressing and a process for making the same are provided. The film dressing has a top layer optionally printed with a measuring guide. The top layer acts as a casting sheet for the second layer of a moisture vapor permeable film. The moisture vapor permeable film may be coated with an adhesive and covered with a silicone coated protective paper or film. The film dressing may also have a tab and/or gripping strip for removal of layers and/or application of the dressing to a patient. The film dressing may be applied to the patient with the top layer printed with a the measuring guide. Alternatively, the top layer may be removed.

Abstract: To provide an adhesive dressing that allows a wearer to determine growth of bacteria, if any, as early as possible when the adhesive dressing is staying on the skin of the wearer for wound healing. The adhesive dressing includes a see-through backing made of a silicone material and four circular keepers provided on one surface of the backing. The keepers are impregnated with chemical compositions that change in color to the extent that the color change is visible to the naked eye when bacteria in a wound grow. The conditions to trigger the color change varies from composition to composition. An adhesive is applied along the periphery of the backing. When bacteria grow in the wound, the change in color of the chemical compositions impregnated in the keepers can be visually checked through the backing. This contributes to prompt and early treatment of infected wounds.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a titratable dosage transdermal delivery system for systemic delivery of a therapeutic agent or drug. The system comprises a plurality of patch units that are connected along one or more borders. The plurality of patch units are divisible into units along the one or more borders having one or more lines of separation. Each patch unit is surrounded by a border. The therapeutic patch has at least a backing layer and a therapeutic agent comprising layer. The dosage of therapeutic agent delivered to a patient is proportional to the number of patch unit applied per treatment. The system enables systemic administration of a titratable dosage of therapeutic agent, adjustable by the patient under the direction of a physician, through the skin or mucosa. Moreover, the invention relates to a method of making the titratable dosage transdermal delivery system.

Abstract: An adhesive bandage having a backing material; a selectively placed layer; an adhesive; and a wound-contacting pad is disclosed. The selectively placed layer, which may be a semi-permeable film or a wound-cushioning material, has at least one dimension which is less than the corresponding dimension of the backing material. The bandage is cost efficient and comfortable to wear.

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 non-perforated bandage including: a) a woven fabric backing having a first type of yarn and a second type of yarn, the backing having a first major surface and a second major surface; b) a wound-contacting pad placed on the first major surface of the backing; and c) a hot melt adhesive, wherein the adhesive is applied to the first major surface of the backing material and the bandage is breathable. The yarns differ in their chemical structure or their physical structure (e.g., differing denier) or the nature of their surface treatment.

Abstract: The invention describes a method of curing a polymerizable material containing ethylenically unsaturated bonds at a temperature of 60° C. or less, comprising the steps of (a) providing a curative comprising an effective amount of a light-stable isomer of a 2,4,5-triarylimidazolyl dimer, such as bilophine; (b) activating said curative by application of an activator selected from the group consisting of solvent and friction; and (c) combining the activated curative with the polymerizable material. Articles comprising an adhesive having a detackified surface, such as adhesive bandages, a detackifying solution, a two-part adhesive system, and a fastening system are also provided.

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: A wound treatment device which fits over standard bandages and covers both the wound area itself and major portions of the surrounding area of healthy skin of an extremity such as a leg, arm, or foot. The wound treatment device maintains the wound near normal body temperature (37° C.) by conserving and redistributing the body's own heat energy using a high efficiency thermal insulator to minimize heat loss from the wound and surrounding skin area and a high efficiency thermal conductor for distributing heat from the surrounding skin to the wound area. The wound treatment device avoids potential problems associated with external heat sources and provides for an ideal physiological environment for wound healing. The wound treatment device can be worn by the patient for extended periods of time during their regular daily routine without constant medical supervision. The wound treatment device can also store extra thermal energy generated by physical activity such as walking, cleaning, or bicycling.

Abstract: A wound dressing system utilizing a method of replacing or adding pads of highly absorbent fibers within an occlusive outer layer that is impervious to both chemical and biological agents such as, but not limited to; anthrax; tabun (o-ethyl dimethylamidophosphorylcyanide sarin (isopropyl methylphosphonofluoridate); soman (pinacolyl methylphosphonofluoridate); cyclohexyl methylphosphonofluoridate; o-ethyl s-diisopropylaminomethyl methylphosphonothiolate; mustard agents (bis- (2-chloroethyl) sulphide). The skin contacting layer of the present invention utilizes a skin contacting occlusive layer that is provided with an uninterrupted border of pressure sensitive occlusive adhesive that encompasses the wound, thereby providing a chemical and biological resistant seal to the skin for containment of body fluids within the absorbent region of the dressing.

Abstract: Adhesive composite dressings with simple and inexpensive delivery systems and methods of manufacturing the dressings are disclosed. The dressings include liners having a release surface and a retention surface. The bond strength between the liner and the pressure sensitive adhesive in the area of the retention surface is greater than the bond strength between the liner and the pressure sensitive adhesive in release surface. The increased bond strength in the area of the retention surface allows the backing to be held taut during delivery to assist in smooth aseptic delivery of the dressing. The retention surfaces can be provided by abrasion, embossing, perforating the liner, or combinations thereof. In addition, the methods of manufacturing the dressings can be practiced in-line with other converting operations using standard release liners.

Abstract: A wound dressing comprising a backing layer, a skin facing layer and an absorbent layer between the backing layer and the skin facing layer, characterised in that at least a part of the absorbent layer is adjacent to the backing layer, the backing layer and the absorbent layer are mutually displaceable, and that the skin facing layer is located at the skin facing surface of the backing layer.

Abstract: A bandage for orthopaedic use comprises an elastic, flexible, relatively stiff supporting means (16) made in the shape of a body part to be supported. The supporting means is made of a cross-linked polythene material. In the method for fabricating such a bandage, the polythene material is heated to a predetermined moulding temperature, at which the material has a consistency suitable for moulding, supporting means with the desired shape then being made from the material.

Abstract: This reinforcement consists of a reinforcement piece (2) and of a flap (3) connected to this reinforcement piece (2); the reinforcement piece (2) is made of a prosthetic knit and has a slit (5) for its engagement around the spermatic cord; the flap (3) is able to be folded over the slit (5).

Abstract: An adhesive bandage having at least one soft, three-dimensional toy. In one form, a soft, three-dimensional toy figure, such as a stuffed character, animal or play object, is attached to the top surface of a flexible backing that is coated with adhesive on its skin-contacting, bottom surface and an absorbent pad is attached to the bottom surface and central portion of the flexible backing for application directly to a body wound. In another form, the toy could cover the wound directly, using either soft, three-dimensional appendages coated with adhesive or appendages made of flexible backing material coated with adhesive to attach the bandage to the skin. The bandage could also be designed so that the toy could be easily removed from the rest of the bandage components to allow for play with the toy away from the wound site.

Abstract: An adherent article, such as a bandage or adhesive tape, having a nonwoven substrate that contains water soluble fibers is provided. The water soluble fibers of the nonwoven substrate can include polyvinyl alcohol fibers that only dissolve at temperatures greater than 37° C. and/or polyvinyl alcohol fibers that can dissolve at temperatures less than about 37° C. The adherent article also includes a pressure-sensitive adhesive applied to the nonwoven substrate that facilitates adherence of the substrate to human skin. The pressure-sensitive adhesive can be water soluble or generally insoluble, but dispersible in water.

Abstract: An adhesive bandage comprising a backing material, an adhesive and a wound-contacting pad which has improved comfort and improved resistance to unraveling when the body part to which it is adhered is flexed. Improved comfort and resistance to unraveling are obtained by tapering the bandage from the center region thereof to each of its opposed ends.

Abstract: A highly conformable and absorbent polymeric foam wound dressing is disclosed, such dressing being particularly useful in preventing pooling of fluid in a draining wound while at the same time maintaining surrounding skin surfaces in a relatively dry state.

Abstract: A medical bandaging product for being dispensed in lengths suitable for a given medical use, including an elongate sleeve of a predetermined length formed of a moisture-impervious material and sealable to prevent entry of moisture, and an elongate medical material having substantially the same predetermined length as the elongate sleeve and positioned within the sleeve in substantially moisture-free conditions and sealed therein against moisture until use.

Abstract: A non-contact wound treatment device suitable for use on an extremity, such as a hand or foot, includes a wound cover formed as a bag, sac, or pouch, and a support member disposable within the wound cover to support a portion of the wound cover off of, and out of contact with, a wound. The wound cover has an open end with attachment means disposed thereon for attachment to a limb whose extremity is received in the wound cover.

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: An adherent article, such as a bandage or adhesive tape, having a nonwoven substrate that contains water soluble fibers is provided. The water soluble fibers of the nonwoven substrate can include polyvinyl alcohol fibers that only dissolve at temperatures greater than 37° C. and/or polyvinyl alcohol fibers that can dissolve at temperatures less than about 37° C. The adherent article also includes a pressure-sensitive adhesive applied to the nonwoven substrate that facilitates adherence of the substrate to human skin. The pressure-sensitive adhesive can be water soluble or generally insoluble, but dispersible in water.

Abstract: Orthopedic bandage comprising a flexible backing material and an adhesive composition, characterized in that the adhesive composition has a thermoplastic behavior, is at least tacky above an activation temperature, forms at least partially crystalline structures below the activation temperature, and at a temperature below 40° C. has a shear modulus of more than 100,000 Pa.

Abstract: An adhesive bandage having a backing material; an adhesive applied to at least one second major surface of the backing material; and a wound contacting pad secured to the backing by a portion of said adhesive. The bandage has a tapered portion and a non-tapered portion. The length of the tapered portion of the bandage ranges from about 30% to about 70% of the total length of the bandage.

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 pressure-sensitive adhesive sheet for skin adhesion in which an adhesive force of the pressure-sensitive adhesive on the backing film does not lower greatly even with the lapse of long term and the initial adhesive force is substantially maintained, and a first-aid adhesive plaster using the same are disclosed. The pressure-sensitive adhesive sheet for skin adhesion comprises a backing film and a pressure-sensitive adhesive layer for skin adhesion formed on one side of the backing film, wherein the backing film comprises about 40 to about 70 parts by weight of a polyester plasticizer having a number average molecular weight of about 1,500 to about 3,000, an appropriate amount of a stabilizer comprising at least one metallic soap selected from the group consisting of fatty acid calcium, fatty acid zinc and fatty acid barium, and about 0.1 to about 1.0 part by weight of hydrotalcite per 100 parts by weight of a vinyl chloride polymer.

Abstract: An adhesive composition includes a polymerizable adhesive monomer, at least one vapor phase stabilizer, and at least one liquid phase stabilizer. The combination of at least one vapor phase stabilizer and at least one liquid phase stabilizer provides superior stabilization and shelf-life for the monomer composition. The stabilized adhesive composition provides superior performance and shelf-life and can be sterilized without significant polymerization of the monomer.

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: A plaster agent comprising a water impermeable or water semipermeable film (layer a), one tackifier layer (layer b) laminated on one surface of said layer a, and another tackifier layer (layer d) laminated on said layer b through an intermediary knitted fabric having a weight per unit area of 10 to 100 g/m2 (layer c) comprising hollow fibers having pores extending therethrough in the outer peripheral direction and containing substantially no medicine internally thereof, and at least one of said layer b and said layer d containing a vaporizable or non-vaporizable medicine.

Abstract: The invention relates to a adhesive article comprising at least one backing layer with a first and second surface and a pressure sensitive adhesive layer adhered first surface of the backing layer in a pattern, wherein the pattern of the adhesive layer has an adhesive free area of less than about 25% and wherein the adhesive article has a water vapor transmission rate of greater than about 2000 g/m2/24 hour. The invention also relates to a method of forming an adhesive article comprising (a) providing a release liner, (b) applying pressure sensitive adhesive in a pattern wherein the free adhesive area is less than 25%, and (c) applying a backing layer to the pressure sensitive adhesive. The present invention provides pattern coated adhesive bandages that strongly adhere to human skin while permitting water vapor transmission there through. Accordingly the present invention also provides methods of facilitating the healing of wounds using the pattern coated adhesive bandage.

Abstract: Film-based bandage material, the film consisting of polyurethane, being treated so as to be self-adhesive on one side and having at least one non-adhesive grip tab formed onto it, so that following application the bandage material can be detached from the substrate by pulling on the grip tab in the direction of the bond plane.

Abstract: A self adherent dermal wound window dressing includes a fabric tape layer having an adhesive skin adhering side and an opposite non-adhesive side. The fabric tape layer has an opening therein to allow viewing therethrough. A semipermeable transparent film layer closes the opening in the fabric tape layer and has an adhesive skin adhering side and an opposite non-adhesive side. The film layer non-adhesive side is adhered on the adhesive side of the fabric layer around the opening such that the fabric layer extends beyond the periphery of the transparent film layer. An absorbent fiber layer having an opening generally corresponding to the opening in the fabric tape layer, is mounted on the adhesive skin adhering side of the transparent film layer such that the openings in the absorbent fiber and fabric tape layers are in alignment and the transparent film layer extends beyond the periphery of the absorbent fiber layer.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a wound dressing that includes a carrier layer which is coated on one side with an adhesive elastomer (3). According to the invention, the carrier layer has the form of a laminate which consists of a plastic film (1) and a material (2) that has an irregular surface structure.

Abstract: Pressure sensitive adhesive articles and methods, particularly stretch removable adhesive articles that are preferably for use in adhering to skin or like delicate surfaces. The articles include tapered terminal portions to control release characteristics. Preferably, stretch removability of the article occurs as a result of the selection of a stretch removable pressure sensitive adhesive. In some embodiments of the articles and methods, the adhesive and backing delaminate upon removal. In other embodiments of the articles and methods, the backing includes a predefined tab located in a central location of the backing.

Abstract: Medical dressings are disclosed that include multiple exposed pressure sensitive adhesives. One of the pressure sensitive adhesives includes a bioactive agent and is substantially contact transparent. In some embodiments, all of the adhesives are substantially contact transparent. Also provided are methods of manufacturing the medical dressings. By providing multiple exposed pressure sensitive adhesives, the pressure sensitive adhesive formulations can be varied to provide desired properties in different areas of the dressing. A pressure sensitive adhesive that exhibits relatively high tack to skin may be provided around the periphery of the dressing while a pressure sensitive adhesive incorporating a bioactive agent is provided in the center of the dressing. Alternatively, a higher tack pressure sensitive adhesive may be provided at two opposing sides of the dressing with a bioactive adhesive located in between the opposing portions of higher tack adhesive.

Abstract: Use of a nonwoven overstitched by means of yarns as backing material for medical purposes, characterized in that the ultimate tensile stress strength of the backing material is less than 30 N/cm, in that a compression force of from 0.2 N/cm to 10 N/cm is produced on extension of the back material by from 20% to 70%, and in that the backing material is coated partially or over its full area on at least one side with a self-adhesive composition.

Abstract: The present invention is for a kit containing components for making decorated adhesive bandages. The kit comprises: a) at least one adhesive bandage comprising a backing, an adhesive layer on one side thereof and an absorbent pad affixed to the adhesive; and b) at least one decorative element selected from adhesive stickers and adhesive tattoos. The decorative element comprises a substrate, a decorative pattern thereon and an adhesive layer. The decorative element is designed to be securely fixed to the upper surface of the bandage. The decorative element is separate from and unsecured to the bandage in the kit. The decorative elements are preferably stickers. By carefully selecting and matching the materials in the bandages and the decorative elements, decorative bandages that are flexible, conformable, and contain a decoration that is resistant to delamination under wet and dry conditions may be custom-made by the consumer at point-of-use.

Abstract: A compression bandage system is disclosed comprising an inner skin facing layer and an elastic outer layer. The inner layer comprises a first ply of foam and a second ply of an absorbent nonwoven web. Both the inner and outer layers are sufficiently elongated so as to be capable of being wound about a patient's limb. Preferably, the foam comprises an ester based polyurethane. The nonwoven web preferably comprises carded fibers, especially cotton fibers, which are needle punched to the foam at less than 500 needles per inch, more preferably at less than 200 needles per inch, and most preferably at less than 100 needles per inch.

Abstract: A two-ply bandage for treatment of skin while providing orthopedic support having a first layer of gel for contacting the skin and a second layer of an elastic and supportive loop portion of a hook and loop fastener. The product is economically manufactured in the form of long rolls or as a sheet and is easily cut to any desired shape.

Abstract: The present invention is for a kit containing components for making decorated adhesive bandages. The kit comprises: a) at least one adhesive bandage comprising a backing, an adhesive layer on one side thereof and an absorbent pad affixed to the adhesive; and b) at least one decorative element selected from adhesive stickers and adhesive tattoos. The decorative element comprises a substrate, a decorative pattern thereon and an adhesive layer. The decorative element is designed to be securely fixed to the upper surface of the bandage. The decorative element is separate from and unsecured to the bandage in the kit. The decorative elements are preferably stickers. By carefully selecting and matching the materials in the bandages and the decorative elements, decorative bandages that are flexible, conformable, and contain a decoration that is resistant to delamination under wet and dry conditions may be custom-made by the consumer at point-of-use.

Abstract: A compression dressing is disclosed. The compression dressing comprises a self-adhering elastic bandage strip designed for exerting a compressive force when wrapped around a body part sufficient to hold the compression dressing in place for a period of time to provide a therapeutic effect to a wound and an absorbent pad affixed to an inner side of a terminal portion or to a terminal end of the self-adhering elastic bandage strip.

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: An elongate medical bandaging product for being dispensed in lengths suitable for a given medical use, including an elongate sleeve of a predetermined length formed of a moisture-impervious material and sealable to prevent entry of moisture, and an elongate medical material having substantially the same predetermined length as the elongate sleeve and positioned within the sleeve in substantially moisture-free conditions and sealed therein against moisture until use.

Abstract: A dressing comprising a main part and a handle part. The main part comprising an adhesive layer, a release liner and a carrier layer optionally covered by a protective layer. The handle part comprises at least one table member, said tab member being designed for use as a “non touch” grip for applying the dressing to the skin without touching the adhesive surface of the main part. The tab member comprises one or more layers and has at least one layer in common with the main part of the dressing. Further, the length of an intermediate zone between the handle part and the main part is less than 20% of the length of the periphery of the main part. Still further, the handle part may be provided with at least one additional layer. Finally, there may be provided at least one notch in an intermediate zone between the handle part and the main part of the dressing in order to facilitate removal of the tab member during or after applying the dressing.

Abstract: A dressing for covering a portion of the anatomical surface of a living being, said dressing being able to adhere to the skin, the mucosa and/or a wound on any portion of a living being without exposing the skin to a significant stress after application and said dressing showing a permanent deformation created before, during or after application of the dressing and wherein the dressing is optionally covered in part or fully by one or more release liners or cover films to be removed before or during application.