Abstract: An apparatus (1) for cleansing wounds (5) in which irrigant fluid from a reservoir connected to a conformable wound dressing (2) and wound exudate from the dressing are moved by a device (18) (which may be a single pump or two pumps) for moving fluid through a flow path (6, 7, 9, 10) which passes through the dressing with a means for providing simultaneous aspiration and irrigation of the wound, and means for supplying thermal energy to the fluid in the wound. The former provides a desired balance of fluid at a controlled nominal flow rate that removes materials deleterious to wound healing, while distributing materials that are beneficial in promoting wound healing over the wound bed. The latter maintains a temperature at the wound bed under the wound dressing at a level that promotes wound healing.

Abstract: Various embodiments of this invention disclose disposable undergarments, such as women's panties or men's briefs, which are lined with local anesthetics that create an area or areas of numbness on the body.

Abstract: An apparatus (1) for cleansing wounds (5) in which irrigant fluid from a reservoir (12) connected to a conformable wound dressing (2) and wound exudate from the dressing are moved by a device (which may be a single pump or two pumps) for moving fluid through a flow path which passes through the dressing and a means for providing simultaneous aspiration and irrigation of the wound, and means for supplying physiologically active agents to the wound. The former provides a desired balance of fluid at a controlled nominal flow rate that removes materials deleterious to wound healing, while distributing materials that are beneficial in promoting wound healing over the wound bed. The latter maintains physiologically active agents at a level that promotes wound healing.

Abstract: A drug delivery system including a chamber, which is configured for enclosing or covering at least a surface of a patient, a source of a drug and a pressure source, which selectively pressurizes the chamber. In addition, the system includes a controller for controlling the transfer of the drug to the chamber wherein the drug is administered to the surface of the patient under pressure.

Abstract: The invention provides a patch device adapted for use in the transdermal administration to a patient of a composition including one or more pharmaceutically, cosmetically, pesticidally, prophylactically, and nutritionally active substance, the patch consisting of a layered construct adapted to be adhered to the skin of a patient and defining a cavity for receiving one or more disruptable containers of the composition or components of the composition to be administered between a proximal layer and a distal layer thereof, which proximal layer is adapted in use to be located in intimate contact with the skin of the patient and which distal layer is in use disposed on the outer side thereof, wherein the proximal layer is partially permeable to that composition, so that in use the integrity of the one or more containers may be disrupted thereby causing the composition to be disposed in the cavity and permeate from there through the proximal layer to be absorbed through the skin into the body of the patient.

Abstract: A system is provided for the treatment of wounds by applying a negative pressure to a wound. The system comprises an electronically controlled suction regulator that comprises: a vacuum regulator, a coupler for coupling the vacuum regulator to an external vacuum source, a valve connected to the vacuum regulator for supplying a negative pressure to the wound, and a control circuit for generating control signals for controlling the valve so that negative pressure may be continuously or intermittently supplied to the wound. The system further comprises a wound dressing provided at the wound site and coupled to the electrically operated valve. The wound dressing comprises a wound dressing pad for placing over the wound, and a wound drape provided over the wound dressing pad and the wound site for sealing the wound site for application of the negative pressure.

Abstract: An ophthalmic injection system has a tip segment attachable to and removable from a limited reuse assembly. The tip segment has a dispensing chamber housing, a plunger, a needle, a temperature control device, a thermal sensor, and a first housing at least partially enclosing the dispensing chamber housing, the temperature control device and the plunger. The limited reuse assembly has an actuator with a shaft, a power source for providing power to the actuator, a controller for controlling the actuator, a mechanical linkage interface, and a second housing at least partially enclosing the power source, the controller, and the actuator. The mechanical linkage interface is coupled to the actuator shaft and has a mating surface on one end. The substance is injected after the temperature of the substance is altered.

Abstract: One embodiment of a thin plastic applicator (1) containing a thinner plastic bubble (2) adhering to the inner surface (3) and containing a solution of dimethyl sulfoxide with one or more local anesthetic agent. A thick plastic rib (4) provides reinforcement, separating two textured sides (5) for ease of handling. A thick plastic rim (6) is attached to an adhesive foam ring and covered with protective paper (7). Removing this paper, the applicator is adhered to a disinfected and dry treatment site, and squeezed to break the inside bubble. After sufficient time to allow penetration of the anesthetizing agent, the bubble is removed, and medication or additional anesthetic injected painlessly. This replaces currently employed less effective methods of topical anesthesia, and provides health care professionals a means of fear and pain reduction where before none was available.

Abstract: Wet wipes comprising a pathogen selective antimicrobial agent and an optional broad spectrum antimicrobial agent are disclosed. The pathogen selective antimicrobial agent is a Yucca species extract. The optional broad spectrum antimicrobial agent may be a synthetic broad spectrum antimicrobial agent, or a natural broad spectrum antimicrobial agent such as a botanical extract.

Abstract: A suction system for removal of fluids from a surface, e.g. a wound site, the system comprising a cover (1) attachable to a circumference of the surface to form an enclosed suction space sealed from ambient space. The system further comprises a pump (4) in fluid communication with the enclosure via a tube (2) to provide a pressure difference between a suction pressure in the enclosure and an air pressure of an ambient space. To provide an improvement over the known systems and to facilitate pressure measurement, the system comprises flushing means (11) to clean the tube.

Abstract: A method of treating areas of the body utilizing ultrasonic vibrations to mix different materials together as to create a therapeutic combination is disclosed. The materials are mixed by passing them through an ultrasound horn vibrating in resonance, having an internal chamber. As the materials pass through the internal chamber, ultrasonic vibrations emanating from and/or echoing off the various walls of the chamber mix the materials into a potentially therapeutic combination. Ultrasonic vibrations emanating from the radiation surface of the horn may be used to spray the created therapeutic combination onto the area of the body to be treated.

Abstract: A method of treating areas of the body utilizing ultrasonic vibrations to mix different materials together as to create a therapeutic combination is disclosed. The materials are mixed by passing them through an ultrasound horn vibrating in resonance, having an internal chamber. As the materials pass through the internal chamber, ultrasonic vibrations emanating from and/or echoing off the various walls of the chamber mix the materials into a potentially therapeutic combination. Ultrasonic vibrations emanating from the radiation surface of the horn may be used to spray the created therapeutic combination onto the area of the body to be treated.

Abstract: An ozone infection control device includes a body portion having a channel or passageway for receiving a catheter so that the catheter may extend from outwardly of the device to a catheter exit site at a central area of the device. A plurality of air inlet openings are spaced around a peripheral skirt of the device. A negative ion ozone generator having a plurality of spaced pointed projections is located within the body portion inwardly of the peripheral skirt and in the path of flow of air flowing through the inlet openings to generate ozone from the air. An oppositely charged ground disk is mounted within the body portion inwardly of the ozone generator. Air flows along a path of flow from the inlet openings to the ozone generator where ozone is created. The path of flow then extends to the ground disk and to the catheter exit site to bathe the catheter exit site with anti-microbial ozone. The flow path would then exit from the device through the catheter passageway.

Abstract: A system for applying suction to a wound uses a reference airflow for monitoring system operation. A reference airflow (or “controlled leak”) to the suction source is provided when the system is in operation, such that deviation from the reference airflow can be monitored as an indication of a change in operation, such as a leak in the seal of the wound cover, a blockage of airflow from crimping of the suction conduit or overfill of the waste collector, or an inadvertent turn off or disconnect from the suction source.

Abstract: Topical compositions having as the active ingredient a lipid, fatty acid ester, natural wax, sterol, or combinations thereof referred to herein as “lipophilic vehicle” or “LV” and methods of use, have been developed for the amelioration or prevention of pain or the sequelae of pain. The composition may be in the form of an ointment, cream, gel, lotion, spray, foam, paste, patch, suspension or dispersion. In the preferred embodiment, the formulation is a gel. The LV may contain a penetration enhancer, most preferably one with membrane disruptive properties. The formulation may be applied to or impregnated into a gauze, wrap, bandage, cotton-tipped stick, adhesive bandage strip, or other support wrap or medical bandage or wound cover. For example, the compositions may be are incorporated onto or into disposables such as hemorrhoid wipes, sponge, mouth guards, dental trays; needles or catheters; adult diapers; gloves, socks or wrist bands, for ease of application.

Abstract: The hot medicinal compress apparatus is a therapeutic and hearth care medical device which has heating, medicament and rolling functions. It includes a heater (2) and a cartridge (3) carrying a medicinal compress layer. The heater (2) includes a heating element and a heat conducting tube (4) in which the heating element is mounted and at both ends of which a front round step member (10) and a rear round step member (10?) having a through hole are respectively arranged; at another end of the front round step member (10), a washer and a demountable baffle ring (18) are provided and fixed by a screw nut (12), while at another end of the rear round step member (10?), a handle (1) is arranged, in which a through hole is provided and on which a control switch is mounted. The cartridge (3) is comprised of a metal tube (17) and a medicinal compress layer which is wrapped around the metal tube (17).

Abstract: An apparatus and method for electrostatically coating a body surface with a coating composition. An apparatus of the present invention includes an enclosure, a mount positioned on the enclosure, and an electrostatic nozzle connected to the mount, the electrostatic nozzle adapted for passing the coating composition for deposition on the body surface. The apparatus further includes a floor surface within the enclosure, the floor surface having a resistive electrical connection.

Abstract: A device for directly applying thermotherapeutic liquid to an area upon the surface of an afflicted patient, and methods of use thereof, are described. In particular, a device for apply water-based liquid at a therapeutic temperature directly to an afflicted area in order to create a localized hyperthermia, is presented. The afflicted area may be either on the skin of the patient, or subcutaneous. The device is also effective for disinfection, irrigation, lavage, and the like, when employing a suitable solution. The liquid may also have a mild oxidizing effect, which, if greater upon afflicted than upon non-afflicted cells, would enhance the therapeutic effect in conjunction with the therapy herein described.

Abstract: Oxygenated aqueous fluids are provided by passing aqueous hydrogen peroxide through a device containing a hydrogen peroxide decomposition catalyst. The oxygenated fluid is then used to elevate oxygen tension in a patient in need thereof.

Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention relate to an adapter that fits over a convenient water source. The adapter includes a tube that provides a passageway for the fluid to reach the top of the adapter. At the top, there is an eye-cup with an internal delivery means for directing the fluid to a user's eye. In this manner, a user can flush their eye in a convenient, portable, and clean manner.

Abstract: A non-woven washcloth formed from a blend of two different size polyester fibers, the majority of which have a length about half of that of the minority. The washcloth has good absorbing and holding properties for a solution containing chlorhexidine gluconate, while also releasing said chlorhexidine gluconate when wiped on skin.

Abstract: Systems and methods for transdermal drug delivery with controlled heat are provided. Such systems can comprise a heating apparatus that includes an exothermic chemical composition, typically in the form of individual heating elements. The heating apparatus can be exposed to ambient oxygen through a cover. The cover can reduce the amount of ambient oxygen capable of contacting the chemical composition compared to when the cover is not present. In some embodiments, the heating apparatus can include more than one heating element. The systems can further include a drug-containing layer that includes a drug. The drug-containing layer can have a surface area of about 50 cm2 to about 400 cm2. The systems of the present invention can be deliver ketoprofen in an amount sufficient to produce a mean blood plasma concentration of ketoprofen in a human subject of at least 45 ng/ml within four hours after initial application of the system to a skin surface.

Abstract: An implantable device for use in an externally-accessible pierced opening in a mammalian body is disclosed. The implantable device has an elongated member adapted for insertion into the opening. A bioabsorbable material is provided on at least a portion of the elongated member and a pharmaceutical agent is carried by the bioabsorbable material for eluting into the mammalian body when the elongated member is disposed in the opening. An apparatus for use with a supply of bioabsorbable material to prepare an implantable device for use in an externally-accessible pierced opening in a mammalian body and a method of delivering a medicament to an externally-accessible pierced opening in a mammalian body are also disclosed. A kit including a container having a bioabsorbable material and medicament for applying to the implantable device prior to insertion into the externally-accessible pierced opening is also disclosed.

Abstract: An apparatus and method used for medical and/or cosmetic treatment of a tissue, such as skin tightening, skin laxity and/or wrinkle reduction and or other skin flaws, including an energy source, a vacuum chamber and rollers which may facilitate easy sliding of the apparatus from one treated area to another. The rollers may also prevent excessive friction of the skin during the treatment. The energy source can be configured to emit energy based on the position of the apparatus on the skin (i.e., the position of the rollers), as well as the pressure within the vacuum chamber. The vacuum level and energy emission can be changed or pulsed based on the treatment regime.

Abstract: A tissue treatment apparatus and method are provided for treating tissue by the application of the time-varying sub-atmospheric pressure. The apparatus includes a cover adapted to cover a wound and adapted to maintain sub-atmospheric pressure the site of the wound. The apparatus further includes a source of suction configured to generate a time-varying sub-atmospheric pressure having a periodic waveform comprising a gradual change in pressure. The suction source cooperates with the cover to supply the time-varying sub-atmospheric pressure under the cover to the wound. The time-varying sub-atmospheric pressure may vary between a first pressure value below the inherent tissue tension of the wound tissue and a second pressure value above the inherent tissue tension of the wound tissue.

Abstract: Various forms of skin irritations are treated with an appropriately configured and sized pad provided with a chilled skim milk additive which is useful for treating skin irritations such as diaper rash, irritations caused by incontinence, breast irritations experienced by nursing mothers, hemorrhoidal irritation, and skin irritations resulting from burns, insect bites, and the like. The irritated skin can be treated by applying the pad directly to the irritated skin. The treatment can continue during normal daily activities in various ways. The pad can take the form of breast pads that can be worn inside of a nursing bra, or it can take the form of an adhesive strip that can be adhered to the skin at the affected site. For treating diaper rash or incontinence-caused irritations, the pad can be placed in diapers or in suitable incontinence undergarments.

Abstract: Methods for treating ocular conditions by inserting an implant comprising an active agent into an ocular site of a patient thereby obtaining an amelioration of a symptom of the ocular condition (i.e. a therapeutic effect) for an extended period of time during which a therapeutic amount or a detectable amount of the active agent is not present at the ocular site.

Abstract: The present invention relates to novel anesthetic compositions containing a non-polymeric carrier material and an anesthetic, where the compositions are suitable for providing a sustained local anesthesia without an initial burst and having a duration for about 24 hours or longer. Certain compositions are also provided that include a first anesthetic and a second anesthetic. In such compositions, the second anesthetic is a solvent for the first anesthetic and provides an initial anesthetic effect upon administration to a subject. The non-polymeric carrier may optionally be a high viscosity liquid carrier material such as a suitable sugar ester. The compositions can further include one or more additional ingredients including active and inactive materials. Methods of using the compositions of the invention to produce a sustained anesthetic effect at a site in a subject are also provided.

Abstract: A subatmospheric pressure dressing can be readily applied by a single person and includes a flexible base which supports a gas permeable screen. A flexible sheet encloses the base and screen. The screen is connected with a source of low pressure (vacuum) by a suction tube. Transmittal of low fluid pressure causes the flexible sheet to be drawn into close contact with the screen to indicate that suction has been established. If a leak develops, the flexible sheet is no longer drawn to the screen to provide a clear indication of the leak.

Abstract: A needleless microprotrusion system for infusion of a medicament into a patient includes a plurality of microprotrusions having a length sufficient to penetrate a stratum corneum of the patient. A chemodenervating agent is disposed for delivery by the microprotrusions and a substrate is provided for supporting the microprotrusions and conforming the microprotrusions to a patient's palm in order to enable uniform penetration of the microprotrusions into the corneum.

Abstract: A stun gun dart acquiring, removing and housing device and method of using this device to remove a dart. The device provides a container, such as a tube, and a slider supported at least partially inside the container and is adapted to grasp a stun gun dart. The user places the slider over the dart, thereby engaging the dart into the distal end of slider and then moves the device away from subject, removing the dart. Then, the user moves the slider rearward into the container to store the dart in a safe location. The dart once locked in place inside the container can now be handled and viewed without concern of inadvertent contamination.

Abstract: An eyelid scrub composition comprising polyhexamethylene biguanide (PHMB), 1,2-hexanediol, 1,2-octanediol, and a pH stabilizing surfactant solution present in an amount effective to control the pH level of the composition between 5.5 and 7.5. The composition can further comprise moisturizers and foam stabilizers. The composition can be combined with a fabric pad for use as an eyelid scrub, where the fabric pad is pre-moistened with the composition and packaged for use. The composition may be applied to the eyelid scrub and rubbed to induce foaming. The composition is produced by preparing a modified Ringer's solution and adding 1,2-hexanediol, 1,2-octanediol, and an effective amount of one or more pH stabilizing surfactants. The mixture is then heated and allowed to cool before polyhexamethylene biguanide is added.

Abstract: A heat stimulating personal lubricant. A package and method for generating the heat stimulating personal lubricant is also disclosed.

Abstract: An eye treatment system for performing an ocular surgical procedure contains an eye treatment probe or handpiece, a treatment console, an eye treatment cassette, and a pump formed by the engagement of the treatment cassette with the treatment console. The handpiece is configured to provide at least irrigation fluid to, and aspiration of fluid from, a subject eye. The treatment console comprises a controller configured to control the eye treatment probe. The eye treatment cassette engages the treatment console to couple the eye treatment probe with the treatment console. The pump comprises a pump head having a plurality of projections disposed to rotate about an axis, a ramp disposed near the rotating projections, and a resilient channel configured to transfer fluid when engaged by the ramp and the plurality of projections. The ramp is configured to reduce pressure fluctuations with the eye during a surgical procedure and comprises and entrance portion, a central portion, and an exit portion.

Abstract: Methods and compositions useful for the inhibition of enzyme activity, including in the treatment of enzymatic dermatitis, are provided. Such compositions comprise a composite material comprising: (a) an exfoliated nanoparticle having a surface and (b) a metal selected from Groups 3 to 12, aluminum and magnesium, wherein the metal is loaded onto the surface of the nanoparticle.

Abstract: A method for enlarging a peripheral vein so as to facilitate venipuncture of the vein by topically applying a vasodilator salt compound to skin overlying the vein and permitting the salt compound to cause the vein to enlarge by causing the vein to fill with blood.

Abstract: A surgical hand tool, comprising a handle with a substantially elongated fluid guide extending away therefrom, which fluid guide terminates, at a distal end, in a brush head and is connectable, at a proximal end, to the fluid chamber accommodated in the handle, such that, during use, fluid can flow from the fluid chamber through the fluid guide in order to be dispensed via the brush head, wherein the brush head is accommodated in an insertion sleeve, and is slidable from a first position in which the brush head is located inside the insertion sleeve to a second position in which at least a part of the brush head extends outside the insertion sleeve.

Abstract: This invention generally relates to improvement of the body and skin appearance, for example enhancing the appearance of sagging, wrinkled, or cellulite-afflicted areas of the skin and body, through the local delivery of a nitric oxide donor, for example, using delivery vehicles such as lotions, creams, liquids, and/or transdermal patches. In some embodiments, a delivery vehicle containing a nitric oxide donor, for example, L-arginine (an important biological precursor) or its derivatives in a sufficient concentration to improve the appearance of a selected area of the body may be applied. In certain cases, one or more agents may also be included that aid in the transfer of the nitric oxide donor into the tissue, which may overcome the resistance to transfer into the skin. Non-limiting examples of suitable agents include agents able to create hostile biophysical environments, for instance, choline chloride, magnesium chloride, and/or sodium chloride.

Abstract: Tourniquet padding and methods of its use with a tourniquet are provided. The tourniquet padding comprises a cover sheet with at least one surface having anti-slip properties, and can be made with and without a compressible padding material disposed on the cover sheet. The tourniquet padding has a length sufficient to be wrapped around a limb of a person, and a width wider than the tourniquet. The cover sheet can be gathered along the proximal edge to accommodate a range of circumferences of extremities, and include an elastic member for wrapping around the extremity. The surface of the cover sheet to be placed in contact with the skin can include one or more adhesive elements to provide an interrupted adhesive surface. The adhesive elements can comprise an adhesive material that is adherable to skin, or a frictionally adhesive material having anti-slip properties to maintain the padding device in place on the skin during use.

Abstract: Improved microprotrusion abrasion devices having fluid retaining or directing patterns, and specific design parameters and method for delivery of substances into the skin. Various configurations of such devices are disclosed, including domed, channeled, patterned and stepped.

Abstract: A method and device for administering minoxidil and other topical solutions to the scalp. The method entails administering a minoxidil preparation through a manifold that fits over the scalp of a patient, and placing a moisture barrier over the scalp for a period of time effective to enhance absorption of the minoxidil preparation by the scalp.

Abstract: A wound treatment apparatus for treatment of surface wounds with a bandage system configured to control the environment adjacent the wound. The apparatus includes a bandage configured to cover a wound and provide a seal about the perimeter of the wound and cavity over the wound. A fluid supply conduit and a fluid drainage conduit are each in communication with the cavity. A nebulizer is coupled to the supply conduit to supply medicinal fluid to the wound. A waste receptacle is coupled to the drainage conduit to remove the fluid away from the wound.

Abstract: The invention relates generally medical devices and methods for the treatment of glaucoma in an animal eye and, more particularly, to medical devices and methods for treating tissue of the trabecular meshwork and/or Schlemm's canal of the eye to restore or rejuvenate a portion or all of the normal physiological function of directing aqueous outflow for maintaining a normal intraocular pressure in the eye.

Abstract: Test methods for assessing irritation of portions of skin and/or assessing inhibition and/or reduction of such irritation are provided.

Abstract: A wound irrigation/fluid containment system having a flexible bag body defining a containment space, the bag body including walls and at least one opening with a seal, means for accessing through the bag body walls to the containment space and means for inflating portions of the walls to provide rigidity and strength to the walls. The containment device isolates a wound on a person and is capable of draining fluids away from the wound.

Abstract: Disclosed herein are novel liquid delivery catheters, and methods and kits implementing the same. The disclosed catheters are particularly useful for localized delivery of a liquid caustic agent to treat various defects associated with malformations and injuries resulting in chronic or acute bleeding, or to ablate tumors, occlude fistulae or other luminal structures. The disclosed devices have uses in a number of medical disciplines, and specific examples are provided pertaining to treatment of defects, malformations, and injuries, or bleeding due to medical procedures, in and along the gastrointestinal tract.

Abstract: A method and device for the delivery of a substance into skin via the rotational movement of a microabrader device reduces the effects of operator variability. The method includes applying a substance to an area of a patient's skin through the rotational movement of microprotrusions which may be imparted by a spring device present in the microabrader device or the motion of the operator through the handle of the microabrader device. The device may further include system and methods for monitoring pressure of the device against the skin and thereby promote consistency between applications and control of penetration depth. The delivered substance may be placed on the microprotrusions and a reconstituting liquid included in the microabrader device.

Abstract: According to the present disclosure, a monolithic medicine dropper, for storing and dispensing liquids, includes a first portion resiliently compressible at one end. Also included is at least a second portion fluidly connected with the first portion and being essentially rigid and hollow and having an opening. At least one of the portions includes written indicia thereon indicating liquid capacities and content levels of the dropper.

Abstract: A method, and apparatus (10) for the controlled acceleration, and/or retardation of the body's inflammatory response generally comprises a foam pad (11) for insertion substantially into a wound site, a heating, a cooling pad (13) for application over the wound site (12), a wound drape (14) or sealing enclosure of the foam pad (11), the heating, and cooling pad (13) at wound site (12). The foam pad (11) is placed in fluid communication with a vacuum source for promotion of the controlled acceleration or retardation of the body's inflammatory response. The heating, and cooling provision controls the local metabolic function as part of the inflammatory response.

Abstract: Test methods for assessing irritation of portions of skin and/or assessing inhibition and/or reduction of such irritation are provided.