Abstract: The present invention relates to a device for collecting gravel and/or calculi expelled through the urethra, for example from a renal patient with kidney stones. The calculi and/or gravel can be collected comfortably and efficiently when they are expelled while urinating, wherever the patient may be, and to learn the approximate volume of gravel expelled. The patient can comfortably and discretely carry the device with him or her at anytime and in any place.

Abstract: A fluid collection apparatus is provided that includes a housing configured for receipt of fluid and/or tissue for collecting fluid therefrom. A holder is configured with the housing to receive an evacuated tube. The holder can include a needle hub supporting a needle cannula in fluid communication with a port extending into a fluid well of the housing. A sloped bottom surface of the housing directs fluid to the fluid well. A sidewall extension or support component extends downward beyond the sloped bottom surface to allow the housing to be stood upright on a flat surface. In certain embodiments, the apparatus includes a tubular cavity to provide a recessed location of the needle cannula for preventing accidental needle injuries. An optional cap provides further shielding from needle cannula and safely maintains fluid in housing after use.

Abstract: The present invention includes a harvesting and irrigation device, a method and a kit for the collection of viable fat cells and/or adipose tissue with decreased handing and improved yield and viability.

Abstract: Urine collection apparatus is provided which can be used to assist bedridden and/or incontinent patients, particularly female patients. The apparatus includes a urine collector which is shaped for location against the perineal region of a patient adjacent the urethra. The urine collector comprises a hollow body having opposed ends in which an inlet for air and an outlet for air and urine are formed, respectively. The body has a central region between the end regions with a reduced cross-sectional area. This effectively creates a venturi adjacent the patient's urethra when air passes through the collector. The apparatus includes a urine receptacle with an inlet for receiving air and urine from the collector, and an outlet for air which is connectable to a source of low pressure. The source of low pressure will typically be an impeller driven by an electric motor, which creates a sufficiently strong air flow through the apparatus to entrain urine and transport it to the receptacle.

Abstract: The invention is a bodily support system comprised of three dimensional forms designed to place the human body in various positions in order to facilitate a number of physical activities. The forms 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6 and 7 all work together as a system as well as individually. Some of the forms fit together and can be used together in pairs or threes. Forms 2 and 3 and forms 6 and 7 are good examples. Others such as form 1 for example, are useful on their own.

Abstract: An endotracheal tube cleaning device may comprise an elongated member, a cleaning member at a first end of the elongated member, and a collection member. The cleaning member may include a shaving region about a periphery thereof. The elongated member may extend through the collection member, and the elongated member and cleaning member may be slidable relative to the collection member.

Abstract: A vacuum device for removing a lodged mass or bolus from the throat of a choking victim. The device includes a pump for creating a vacuum chamber communicating with a mouthpiece having a frangible membrane. A resilient striker fractures the membrane to generate a substantially instantaneous vacuum to the mouthpiece to dislodge the mass. In one embodiment, the membrane is substituted by a manually displaceable sealing member, which is resealed after use of the device by movement of a vacuum-generating plunger.

Abstract: Compositions, methods, devices and kits utilizing water-based hydrophilic coating formulations on medical implements. The composition for applying a coating comprises a sulfonated polyester, water, and a surface active agent. Methods for coating a medical implement comprise providing an aqueous dispersion comprising sulfonated polyester and surface active agent, contacting the medical implement with the aqueous dispersion, and drying the medical implement. Methods for acquiring a sample of bodily fluid from a patient comprise coating a needle with a sulfonated polyester, penetrating the needle into the patient, and drawing bodily fluid through the needle.

Abstract: An air bubble separator is provided for ophthalmic surgical systems, which includes a housing 102 having a diagonally-oriented flow channel 110 and a vertically-oriented flow channel 130 adjoining the diagonally oriented channel. The diagonally-oriented flow channel 110 has a downstream portion 112 disposed downstream of the vertically-oriented flow channel 130, and an upstream portion 118 disposed upstream of the vertically-oriented flow channel 130. The downstream portion 112 of the diagonally-oriented flow channel 110 has a cross-sectional area 114 that is greater than that of the upstream portion 118. The downstream portion's cross-sectional area 114 is greater than the upstream portion's cross-sectional area 124 by an amount or percentage that is sufficient to slow fluid flow through the diagonally-oriented flow channel 110, so as to cause air within the fluid to rise and flow into the vertically-oriented flow channel 130.

Abstract: A flow measurement device 100 is provided that includes an electrode terminal chamber 102 with an inlet 104 in communication with a flow channel 108 for receiving fluid and viscoelastic material aspirated from a surgical site, and an outlet 106 that tapers into a flow channel 108. The outlet 108 has a taper angle that is sufficient to smooth flow and cause viscoelastic material entering the electrode terminal chamber 102 to flow substantially within a center portion of the chamber and through the outlet 106. The electrode terminal chamber 102 further includes first and second electrode terminals 130 and 140 disposed on generally opposite sides of the electrode terminal chamber 102 in a spaced-apart manner. The first and second electrode terminals 130 and 140 are positioned a distance from the center of the chamber 102 that is sufficient to substantially avoid contact between the terminals and viscoelastic materials flowing through the chamber 102.

Abstract: An apparatus for cleansing wounds in which irrigant fluid from a reservoir (12) connected to a conformable wound dressing (3) and wound exudate from the dressing are recirculated by a device (18) for moving fluid through a flow path which passes through the dressing and a means (17) for fluid cleansing and back to the dressing. The cleansing means (which may be a single-phase, e.g. microfiltration, system or a two-phase, e.g. dialytic system) removes materials deleterious to wound healing, and the cleansed fluid, still containing mate rials that are beneficial in promoting wound healing, is returned to the wound bed. The dressing and a method of treatment using the apparatus.

Abstract: Featured is an automatic high-negative pressure relief valve and its use in combination with an apparatus for draining fluid from a body. In broad terms the negative pressure relief valve includes a biasing mechanism, a moveable member acted upon by the biasing mechanism and a seating surface. When the pressure within a chamber, in which a portion of the relief valve is in fluid communication with, is less than a predetermined negative pressure, the moveable member is moved by the biasing mechanism to sealing engage the seating surface and when the pressure is at or above the predetermined value, the restoring force of the biasing mechanism is overcome and the moveable member moves away from the seating surface. In an exemplary embodiment, the biasing mechanism is a spring, diaphragm or wave washer.

Abstract: A urine collection system includes a urine collection device and a suspension system. The urine collection device includes a catheter and a urine bag. The suspension system includes a waist band, an extension strap depending from the waist band, and a thigh band attached to the strap. A pair of securing straps is provided on the thigh band for securing the urine bag. A fastener is provided on the extension strap for securing the catheter and for resisting pulling by the urine bag. The catheter further includes a branch, which, along with the fastener, resists the downward motion of the catheter.

Abstract: A urine collection system includes a urine collection device and a support system. The urine collection device includes a catheter and collection component. The suspension system includes a waist band, an extension strap depending from the waist band, and a thigh band attached to the strap. A pair of securing straps is provided for securing the urine collection tubing. A fastener is provided on the extension strap for securing the catheter and for resisting movement of the catheter due to relative pulling of collection tubing or a collection bag. The catheter further includes a branch, which, along with the fastener, resists the downward motion of the catheter.

Abstract: A urination device that permits a woman to direct her urine into a toilet while in the standing position is disclosed. The device is generally funnel-shaped in configuration with an elongated lip portion at its entrance and is formed from biodegradable material so as to be readily disposable. The exposed edges of the device are rolled to prevent the creation of any discomfort or irritation when the device is used. An absorbent material is attached to the outer surface of the device for personal wiping purposes. The elongated lip portion can be folded onto the funnel-shaped portion creating a compact unit for carrying purposes.

Abstract: The collection bag of the invention is used to capture body fluids/waste material throughout the complete process as an enema is being administered, eliminating contamination of the patient, bed, linens, and floor as well as the caregiver and others that administer the enema. This bag can be administered to patients that are recovering from bariatric surgery, are in a long term care facility, hospital, home, or special unit caring for spinal cord injuries, or head injuries. It can be used with patients who are in a comatose condition whereby hip flexion, weight bearing, or transferring to a bedside commode is impossible. This collection bag captures waste for laboratory testing and other lab work and is marked with warning indicia. The bag fits any age patient, male or female.

Abstract: A urine collection bag is provided which includes a light source to allow a caregiver to take fluid readings during sleep periods, and other lights-out periods, without needing to turn on room lighting and risk disturbing the patient. The light can be permanently mounted to the bag and discarded with the bag after use. A reusable light is also provided which can be moved from bag to bag. Embodiments are presented wherein the light attaches to a bag specifically accommodated to accept lighting, as well as embodiments where the light can be used with any commonly-available collection or distribution bag.

Abstract: Holders for specimen collection such as urine collection and systems including holders and specimen collection cups are disclosed. The holders include resiliently deformable features for retaining cups of varying sizes therein. In some forms, the holders are alignable to minimize spillage when advancing the specimen cup into a urine stream.

Abstract: A dry chamber (100) for a modular drainage system, the dry chamber may comprise a downstream connector (106) which is in fluid connection with the dry chamber via a flexible annular element defining a conduit. A kit of elements comprising a dry chamber, and at least one of: a collecting bag (130); a device for draining body fluids; an annular element (140) for fluidly interconnecting the dry chamber and a device for draining fluids; and an annular element (138) for fluidly interconnecting the dry chamber and a collecting bag. Use of a flexible annular element for fluidly interconnecting a dry chamber and a bag for collecting body fluids.

Abstract: A backflow-prevention system that substantially prevents contaminant backflow at a treatment site. The system includes a fluid ejector tube for insertion into the patient's mouth and a backflow prevention device that receives fluid from the fluid ejector tube. The backflow prevention device includes an internally positioned valve member. The valve member limits contaminant backflow. The valve member is movable between open and closed positions based on a vacuum pressure condition in the system.

Abstract: A method of detecting the presence of an insult within an absorbent article is disclosed. An electrical property is monitored and the electrical property is compared to a wet/dry threshold value to determine either a wet characteristic or a dry characteristic of the article. If a dry characteristic, then a first and possibly a second test are applied. If a wet characteristic, then the second test is applied. The electrical property is compared to a first threshold value and a second threshold value is set based upon the function of the comparison. A change in the electrical property of the article is monitored to determine if the electrical property has stabilized after activation of an insult alarm.

Abstract: The collecting bag comprises a bag member (1) and a discharge portion (6) including a closure device (7). An accommodating means (8) is provided within the outer contours of the bag member for accommodating at least a part of the discharge portion in the position of use of the bag. The accommodating means includes a slit (20) in the comfort layer (52) overlying the front film blank (2), such that a part of the discharge portion may be lodged in the space between joint sections that connect inner tubular film elements with the film blanks of the bag member.

Abstract: The invention relates to an external female incontinence device. The device comprises a flexible elastic strip having an opening in the strip, a fluid collection means surrounding the opening on one face, the strip and opening are sized and shaped so that when stretch fitted over the external urogenital organs the labia minor extends through the opening and a fluid tight fit between the upper face of the strip and the flesh surrounding the labia minora is formed. The device may further comprise a waistband for attachment of the device and to assist in maintaining a positive tension to press the device against the flesh surrounding the labia minora.

Abstract: A colostomy bag with a vent and a method for venting gas collected in the colostomy bag. A dual vent and cap assembly attached to a colostomy bag vents gas trapped in the bag either continuously or as periodically desired by a user. A method for venting gas collected in the colostomy bag provides that replacement and/or cleaning of the colostomy bag is reduced. Also, a method of using a disposable sleeve in combination with a clip may be used to hygienically clean the colostomy bag.

Abstract: A suction fluid collector includes a transparent reservoir made of a resilient material with an upper opening positioned on one side of a flexible suction bag with at least one transparent side. A plate part made of a resilient material is positioned on another side of the suction bag opposite said reservoir. An urging means arranged between the reservoir and the plate part provides a force tending to expand a gap between the reservoir and the plate part. A suction tube is positioned partially inside the reservoir and extends through the suction bag.

Abstract: Liquid collection apparatus usable during surgery, comprising in combination, first and second collectors arrayed and configured for receiving liquid dropping from a surgery area or areas, the collectors arrayed in selected edgewise proximal relation to enhance surgical related liquid collection and transfer capability.

Abstract: A urine collection bag is provided which includes at least one sheet of flexible material defining a collapsible fluid reservoir and a support member defining a fluid channel and including a spout having an outlet opening. The support member is configured such that the longitudinal axis of the spout defines an acute angle with a horizontal axis when the fluid reservoir is empty but moves to a position wherein the longitudinal axis of the spout is substantially parallel to a vertical axis when the fluid reservoir is filled. The support member is configured to support a discharge valve such that the discharge valve is more accessible when the fluid reservoir is filled with fluid.

Abstract: A disposable receptacle for bodily waste materials from a bodily waste discharge outlet of a collection bag having an elongate body with a top end and formed with an internal, bodily waste material-receiving chamber; an inlet opening formed by the body, proximate to, or at, the top end thereof, the body being adapted to receive within the inlet opening the bodily waste discharge outlet of the collection bag so as to allow bodily waste materials within the collection bag to be discharged into the bodily waste material-receiving chamber; and securing means for holding the bodily waste material-receiving chamber in position relative to the collection bag or a disposal unit. A simple yet effective device which may be easily used by a bag wearer/user which is easily disposed of by flushing. It may be used to dispose of waste from an artificial excretory opening collected in ileostomy or colostomy bags.

Abstract: An automatic urine collecting apparatus for collecting urine received by a urine receiver through a tube, includes: a container for receiving and storing urine; a pump that sucks and conveys urine from the urine receiver to the container through the tube, wherein the pump comprises a rotary pump. A body including the pump may cover an opening of container. An overhead portion included in the body may cover the opening of container. The apparatus may further comprise an elevator mechanism to elevate the container to couple the container to the overhead portion.

Abstract: A pseudo-plastic or thixotropic carrier having anti-malodorous components dissolved or suspended therein is sprayed on the internal surfaces of an ostomy bag or pouch. The viscoelastic properties of the carrier allow the composition to be conveniently dispensed from a spray bottle into the ostomy bag and retained on the inner walls thereof without being displaced therefrom by incoming waste during use of the ostomy bag. This allows the composition to continue to deodorize the ostomy bag headspace even after waste material begins to fill the bag.

Abstract: A portable apparatus for receiving human waste products having a first portable cylindrical member with a removable conical portion having a bowl shape connected to the upper open end of said first cylindrical member. The portable cylindrical member includes a second cylindrical member of a smaller diameter inside having a water-proof disposable and removable bag for receiving the human waste providing sanitary way of managing the body fluids.

Abstract: An undergarment to be worn primarily by women during menstruation that resists staining of the undergarment itself and prevents leakage of menstrual flow to outer garments. The outer covering of the undergarment with a waist portion and a pair of leg openings is composed of fabric to make the fabric repel stains, repel and release stains, or absorb and then release stains. A panel of fabric treated to make the fabric repel stains, repel and release stains, or absorb and then release stains covers the crotch area and may extend up the front and/or back of the undergarment. Fabric on each side of the panel, also made of fabric treated to make the fabric repel stains, repel and release stains, or absorb and then release stains, provides additional protection to prevent leakage. In addition, in the preferred embodiment, the undergarment will have antimicrobial properties.

Abstract: The invention is devices and methods for collecting fetal blood from the umbilical cord and placenta after the birth of a baby. Embodiments of the invention are open circuit devices and methods that allow collection of relatively large quantities of cord blood while reducing the risk of contamination to levels lower than those presently associated with closed circuit systems. Other embodiments are methods and devices for use in closed system procedures that increase the amount of blood collected and also reduce the amount of contamination in presently employed closed systems.

Abstract: A collapsible, hands-free emesis container is provided with improved portability, deployment and emesis reception characteristics. The container includes a receptacle for receiving emesis, a chute for directing emesis and a retainer to maintain desired positioning of the container about a support structure, which may be the neck of an impaired patient. The container may be provided in a package having size characteristics for easy storage and access by emergency medical service personnel.

Abstract: An open circuit gravity-assisted uroflowmeter has a urine collector having a generally open inlet in fluid communication with a sensing passage located at a lower elevation than the inlet, the sensing passage intersecting a magnetic field and having electrodes for detecting a flow-dependent voltage induced by the passage of urine through the magnetic field. Preferred embodiments of the uroflowmeter may have low pressure drop, rapid response and simple construction.

Abstract: A urethral catheter device and an associated method of using the device are disclosed. The device comprises a catheter probe and at least one receiving unit attachable to the probe for receiving and collecting urine. The catheter probe comprises: an elongated shaft, a valve, a drainage lumen, a drainage inlet, a tapered cone, a collar, an elongated protuberance, a saline inlet, a saline lumen, a sheath, and a fluid lock. Each receiving unit comprises: a sterile membrane, a sleeve, and a collection bag. When the sleeve of the receiving unit is attached to the collar of the catheter probe, then the tapered cone of the catheter probe ruptures the membrane of the receiving unit, whereby the drainage inlet of the proximate end of the catheter probe is fluidly connected to the collection bag of the catheter probe and the valve is thereby opened. The sheath attached at the proximate end of the elongated shaft is inflatable into a donut shaped balloon which is capable of being retained within a bladder of a patient.

Abstract: A collection device for a catheter assembly is disclosed providing for an easier catheterization process and fluid collection with the device capable of being folded from a larger form into a smaller, more mobile form. The collection device may have attached to its top portion a connecting tube capable of being stretched and compressed, thereby allowing the user more flexibility and convenience while catheterized. Additionally, the collection device may contain antiseptic agents, fold lines, a drainage tube, fastening mechanisms, and leg strap holders in order to make the device more convenient to use.

Abstract: A disposable garment for wearing about the lower torso employs pleats or folds in the waist region of the garment allowing the hip region to expand. The pleats are secured in a bond zone at the waist. An absorbent assembly is attached at the waist region and is free to expand at the hip region of the garment.

Abstract: The present disclosure relates to personal care products such as diapers, training pants, feminine care articles, incontinence articles, bandages, and the like, that have been treated to enhance liquid intake and distribution performance characteristics and reduce leakage. Advantageously, the treated personal care products described herein not only reduce the viscosity and elasticity of viscoelastic fluids that come in contact with the treated product, but also reduce the fouling effect of such fluids.

Abstract: To allow a DC voltage to be obtained as an output signal for higher versatility. A sensor unit 400 has three electrodes: a transmission electrode 401, a reception electrode 402 and a shielding electrode 403. The shielding electrode 403 shields the transmission electrode 401 and the reception electrode 402 from each other in terms of high-frequency and is constantly earthed. A high-frequency voltage is applied to the transmission electrode 401 from a high-frequency oscillation circuit 410. A high-frequency voltage depending upon the magnitude of the electrostatic capacity between the electrodes 401 and 4023 is outputted from the reception electrode 402. The high-frequency voltage outputted from the reception electrode 402 is converted into a DC voltage by a detection circuit 420. The presence or absence or the amount of a substance is determined based on the magnitude of the DC voltage produced in the detection circuit 420.

Abstract: According to one aspect, a fluid collection bag comprises an inlet opening adapted to receive an inlet tube located on a first side of the fluid collection bag. The first side of the fluid collection bag is generally parallel with a length of the fluid collection bag. The fluid collection bag further comprises an outlet opening located on the first side of the fluid collection bag.

Abstract: A tube assembly for carrying malodoriforous matter from the human body comprises a silicone based tube having a central bore for the malodoriforous matter, and a tubular sleeve member comprising an odor barrier material, the silicone based tube and the tubular sleeve member being arranged one within the other such that the tubular sleeve member provides an odor barrier to obstruct leakage of odors from malodoriforous matter in the bore of the silicone based tube. The tube assembly is especially suitable for use in fecal or bowel management apparatus.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a device, method, system and kit for receiving effluent from an individual. In an alternative embodiment, the present invention is directed to a device, method, system and kit for collecting effluent from an individual during a medical or diagnostic procedure including but not limited to, imaging or viewing one or more sections of an individual's gastrointestinal tract. In another alternative embodiment, the effluent is collected in a hollow area in order to prevent the effluent form contaminating a component, device or apparatus used in connection with the medical or diagnostic procedure.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a cord blood correcting device characterized by including: a branch indwelling needle having an outer cylinder needle provided on a distal end side, an inner needle drawing tube portion provided on a proximal end side, an inner needle provided inside the inner needle drawing tube portion, and a liquid outflow tube portion which branches off from the inner needle drawing tube portion; a cord tissue holder having a base portion and a holding portion for holding the cord tissue; and connecting means for interconnecting the branch indwelling needle and the cord tissue holder, and in that the connecting means has a structure for changing an angle between a puncture direction from the proximal end side to the distal end side of the branch indwelling needle and a holding direction from the base portion to the holding portion of the cord tissue holder.

Abstract: A bandage is provided for use with a wound having a wound surface. The bandage is connectable to a vacuum source and may include a flexible cover positioned over the wound and a collar coupled to the cover. The cover includes a port and is configured to seal to a patient's healthy skin surrounding the wound. The collar may be coupled to the cover and include a passageway in communication with the port of the cover. The passageway is configured to receive at least a portion of a tube in communication with the vacuum source. The bandage may also include a sealer coupled to the collar. The sealer may be configured to provide a substantially airtight seal between the tube and the passageway to create a sealed environment capable of maintaining a negative pressure between the cover and the wound surface.

Abstract: Method for draining and decompressing a colon in which a drainage tube is inserted through the anus into the colon to extend through the entire colon. The drainage tube is fixed in position and suction is applied therethrough to cause fecal matter to pass therein through apertures and be withdrawn from the colon. The drainage tube is inserted by inserting a guidewire into the colon through the anus, manipulating and pushing the guidewire to the cecum, passing a filament through the colon wall to engage the guidewire, pulling the guidewire out of the colon and anus to draw the filament through the colon and out of the anus, attaching the drainage tube to the filament and drawing the filament with attached drainage tube through the anus into the colon. The invention also relates to constructions of the guidewire, the drainage tube and methods for inserting drainage tubes using guidewires.

Abstract: A device for collecting spinal fluid during a lumbar puncture or other medical procedure includes: a) an upper, generally cup-shaped portion including an open top, an upper cup side wall, an upper cup base plate at a lower end of the upper cup side wall, and a drain hole in the upper cup base plate; b) a lower, generally cup-shaped portion including an open top, a lower cup side wall, and a lower cup base plate at a lower end of the lower cup side wall, the lower cup base plate including a plurality of generally circular openings; wherein the upper, generally cup-shaped portion is removably insertable in and rotatable in the lower, generally cup-shaped portion, and the upper, generally cup-shaped portion includes a rotation mechanism for rotating the upper, generally cup-shaped portion in the lower cup-shaped portion.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for technique and cycling (Techni-cycling as herein defined) such that converting delivery supply containers (supplies) into waste and disposal receptacles is disclosed. More particularly, a container transformation comprising deriving a supply container from a health care delivery sequence and converting the container into a waste receptacle by connection to a vacuum/suction source and collection system reduces the amount of waste contributed to the waste stream.

Abstract: The present invention is a deformable liquid handling member, having an inner region circumscribed and hermetically sealed by a wall region, which comprises a membrane assembly to separate a first zone outside of the member from a second zone within the inner region of the member. Thereby, the second zone is connected to a suction source capable of receiving liquid, and the first zone is positioned in liquid communication with a liquid releasing source during its intended use. The membrane assembly is capable of maintaining a pressure differential between the second zone and the first zone without permitting air to penetrate from said first zone to said second zone. Further, the inner region comprises an inner material, which has a volume expansion factor of more than 3, preferably 5, more preferably 10, and can have a creep recovery of more than 60%, preferably more than 90%.

Abstract: A method is disclosed for securing a fluid meter to a fluid collection bag. The method includes the steps of providing a meter having a housing defining a fluid receptacle and at least one drain opening, providing a collection bag defining a fluid reservoir and having at least one inlet opening and securing the meter to the bag using an RF welding device to allow fluid communication between the fluid receptacle and the fluid reservoir. In one embodiment, the housing includes a raised surface positioned about the at least one drain opening to which the collection bag is welded.