Abstract: A wound irrigation kit includes a basin for collecting irrigation fluid that is configured to closely fit the specific body part that is to be irrigated. The kit optionally includes a grommet that can be readily incorporated into the basin to allow for active draining of the basin during the irrigation procedure. The kit also optionally includes a flexible irrigation shield that can be attached to an existing irrigation device and that can be readily modified to vary its length.

Abstract: A wound irrigation kit includes a basin for collecting irrigation fluid that is configured to closely fit the specific body part that is to be irrigated. The kit optionally includes a grommet that can be readily incorporated into the basin to allow for active draining of the basin during the irrigation procedure. The kit also optionally includes a flexible irrigation shield that can be attached to an existing irrigation device and that can be readily modified to vary its length.

Abstract: An inexpensive and disposable, highly absorbent pad for placement on a floor surface, directly in front of a urinal, for absorbing fluid not deposited within the confines of the urinal which would otherwise drip on the floor. Fluid absorbed by the pad is prevented from reaching the underlying floor thereby eliminating the problems associated with fluids being deposited on the floor. The pad includes a normally concealed incorporates a normally concealed, flexible, thin plastic disposal container connected to a pad removal member. The disposal container is stored in a normally concealed location, preferably beneath the pad, and automatically deploys and envelops the pad when a force is exerted on the removal member during the pad removal process.

Abstract: The vacuum desiccator low pressure vacuum pump and trap and is transportable upon a user's person. The device is especially useful to remove excess fluids from wounds and incisions as they heal. The device includes a desiccator cartridge containing a fluid trapping agent. The desiccator cartridge is connected to a vacuum pump member providing a low vacuum pressure to the interior chamber of the desiccator cartridge. A small battery powered, electric motor drives the pump member. An electrical control circuit, including the battery power source, controls the operation of the electric motor. A single passage, one-way, gas/liquid flow pathway connects the inlet port of the desiccator cartridge to an occlusive dressing covering the wound to be drained. The control circuit includes one or more ancillary circuits for controlling operation of the device, such as: a power circuit, a moisture sensor, a timer circuit, a vacuum pressure sensor, and a pressure differential sensor.

Abstract: The apparatus and method is provided that employs a “radiopaque” object to count and account for surgical sponges in an operating room. A radiopaque object is embedded in surgical sponges so that a scanning device can detect and count a large number of the sponges within a container. The container is designed to minimize contact with the sponges by humans. In addition, a surgical team can insure that no surgical sponge is left in a patient without performing the messy and time-consuming job of individually counting sponges as they are entered and disposed of from the surgical site.

Abstract: An ostomy pouch for both one and two-piece ostomy appliances having an integral closure at the bottom of the pouch to allow the pouch to be emptied and re-sealed without the use of a separate closure. The integral closure has mating parts that are locked together and provides the ostomy appliance with a leak-proof, odor-proof seal when in a closed, sealed, and locked position. A slider, when the appliance is closed, can be moved along the integral closure, thereby separating the mated male and female parts to provide an opening through which the stored contents within the ostomy pouch can be emptied. After the stored contents have been emptied, the slider can reseal the pouch by rejoining the male and female parts. The integral closure is manufactured from material that is different and more rigid than the material used to manufacture the ostomy pouch.

Abstract: A medical suction system comprising a medical suction canister used in draining bodily fluid from a patient, and a cleaning station for automatically draining and cleaning the suction canister and for automatically providing a visible indication that the canister has been cleaned.

Abstract: A tissue closure treatment system and method are provided with an external patient interface. A first fluid transfer component FTC.1 comprises a strip of porous material, such as rayon, with liquid wicking properties. FTC.1 can be placed directly on a suture line for transferring fluid exuded therethrough. An underdrape is placed over FTC.1 and includes a slot exposing a portion of same. FTC.2 comprises a suitable hydrophobic foam material, such as polyurethane ether, and is placed over the underdrape slot in communication with FTC.1. Negative pressure is applied to FTC.2 through a connecting fluid transfer component FTC.3. A negative pressure source can comprises a manual device or a power-operated suction device. The tissue closure method includes a manual operating mode using a manual suction device with an automatic shut off for discontinuing suction when a predetermined volume of fluid has been drained.

Abstract: A tissue closure treatment system and method are provided with an external patient interface. A first fluid transfer component FTC.1 comprises a strip of porous material, such as rayon, with liquid wicking properties. FTC.1 can be placed directly on a suture line for transferring fluid exuded therethrough. An underdrape is placed over FTC.1 and includes a slot exposing a portion of same. FTC.2 comprises a suitable hydrophobic foam material, such as polyurethane ether, and is placed over the underdrape slot in communication with FTC.1. Negative pressure is applied to FTC.2 through a connecting fluid transfer component FTC.3. A negative pressure source can comprises a manual device or a power-operated suction device. The tissue closure method includes a manual operating mode using a manual suction device with an automatic shut off for discontinuing suction when a predetermined volume of fluid has been drained.

Abstract: Featured is a pressure control regulator including a housing, a sealing member disposed within the housing, a flexible member and a biasing mechanism. The housing includes at least one inlet aperture and at least one outlet aperture, each inlet aperture being fluidly coupled to a first pressure source and each outlet aperture being fluidly coupled to a second pressure source, the first and second pressure sources being at different pressures. The flexible member extends between the sealing member outside surface and the housing inner surface so as to form a pressure boundary therebetween and to divide the housing interior into first and second compartments. The biasing mechanism, being responsive to pressure within the second compartment, acts on the sealing member so the sealing member is in one of an open position, when the second compartment is greater than a predetermined pressure value, or a closed position, when the second compartment pressure is at or below the predetermined pressure value.

Abstract: A portable systems release fluid pressure with a cavity within a patient. These systems include a drainage catheter, a pressure-responsive one-way valve, and a fluid reservoir all adapted to be mounted in proximity to the cavity being drained. One system in particular is used in relieving intracranial pressure. This intracranial pressure relief system may include a headband to which are mounted the one-way valve and reservoir. The drainage catheter may have mounted thereon a cranium seal formed of a soft material that contacts the inner wall of a cranium bore hole. The cranium seal may have threads to facilitate advancement into the bore hole.

Abstract: A wetting apparatus (110) for wetting a hydrophilic urinary catheter (103) comprises a wetting receptacle (101) which defines a wetting fluid receiving area (102) for receiving the hydrophilic urinary catheter and a hydrophilic urinary catheter wetting fluid container (106) having a discharge outlet (126) movable from a closed position to an open position on application of a predetermined condition thereto to enable the wetting fluid to be discharged from the wetting fluid container.

Abstract: A containment system for biohazardous fluids is described. The containment system operates under the action of gravity at substantially constant atmospheric pressure. The system includes a container having a first membrane and a second membrane coupled together to enclose a containment volume. The first membrane is characterized by being permeable to gases and impermeable to liquids and aerosols. The second membrane is characterized by being impermeable to gasses and liquids and includes an inlet port configured to receive a tube. A self-sealing inlet port minimizes splashing back and spillage. Particular embodiments include a single-use liner assembly and a rigid, reusable receptacle with a securable lid and a drain for disposing of collected fluids. The receptacle may be coupled to the liner assembly to substantially enclose the liner.

Abstract: A urine collector is comprised of a container with an electric suction pump. A hose extending from the pump is connected to a funnel for collecting urine. The funnel is comprised of an interchangeable female or male funnel. The female funnel is comprised of a cup with an elongated and curved opening for closely fitting under and against a vulva. The male funnel is comprised of a penis-shaped tube with a resilient sealing ring around an open end for sealing around an inserted penis. The funnel can be positioned against the body through a fly in the pants, through a loosened waistband, or under a dress. Urine deposited in the funnel is rapidly drawn into the container by the pump even when the funnel and the top end of the tube are angled up and define an initially uphill path for the urine, such as when the user is seated.

Abstract: The present invention relates to ostomy devices, such as ileostomy devices, colostomy devices and urostomy devices. Claimed and described is the use of an ostomy device comprising a storage element and a flange on an ostomy patient, the patient having an artificial passage for bodily discharges, such as faeces and/or urine, the passage being provided by a stoma and the passage being surrounded by abdominal skin, the use of the ostomy device being characterised in that the flange is in contact with the stoma. In an additional aspect the present invention relates to breast feeding accessories.

Abstract: A receptacle for collecting intestinal contents is designed for surgical implant in the abdominal cavity of a patient who, post-operatively lacks the whole or part of the small intestine, large intestiine or the rectum. The receptacle comprises a connection device for connection to the intestine of the patient and an emptying device which is secured in the abdominal wall of the patient. The emptying device realises a closable passage through the abdominal wall. Further, the receptacle includes an inner container (4) or ampoule and an outer casing (3). The inner container or ampoule consists of a gas- and liquid-tight material which is flexible and somewhat elastic. The outer casing (3) consists of a flexible but substantially unstretchable material. The ampoule (4) and the outer casing (3) are united ot one antoher at the connection device and the emptying device.

Abstract: The collecting bag has a bag member (2) formed by a first and a second film blank (2,3), and a discharge portion (8) that is foldable and unfoldable to bring the discharge portion from an open unfolded condition to a closed folded condition and vice versa. A first plate member (21) is positioned on the first film blank (2) and a second plate member (22) is positioned on an extension (3a) of the second film blank (3). A locking device is provided at the discharge portion for locking the bag in the closed folded condition of the discharge portion. Each plate member (21,22) is formed from a relatively stiff material, and the distance (d) between the distal edge (21b) of the first plate member (21) and the proximal edge (22a) of the second plate member (22) is smaller than the thickness of the first plate member.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a method for producing interleukin-1 receptor antagonists, a prophylatically or therapeutically effective protein. A syringe is filled with a body fluid and incubated. The prophylatically or therapeutically effective protein is then produced in the body fluid.

Abstract: A device for the drainage of the bladder through the body's own urethra opening outside of the human body, comprising a tube-shaped body (10). The tube-shaped body is comprised: to assume a first contracted position and for taken up within the bladder as well as a to assume a second partially extended position. At least one thread (14) extends between the bladder and an opening of the urethra and is attached at a first end of the tube-shaped body so that the tube-shaped body can be extended from the first position to the second position during the application of a pulling force upon the thread. The tube-shaped body in the second partially extended position extends in such a manner so as to exceed the distance between the bladder and the point of the urethra's closing. The tube-shaped body is comprised in such a manner that it will return to the first position upon the release of the pulling force on the thread.

Abstract: A drain assembly for a fluid collection container includes a housing attached to the container and defining a cavity therewithin. A stop is located within the cavity and is fixed relative to the housing. A switch having a closure member formed thereon is mounted within the cavity for rotary movement relative to the housing. In a disclosed embodiment the switch has a tab extending through the housing to facilitate rotation of the switch from outside the housing. A flexible, resilient tube in fluid communication with the interior of the fluid collection container has a portion disposed within the cavity and extending between the stop and the closure member of the switch. The tube is configured so that fluid discharged from the lower end of the tube is discharged through an opening in a lower portion of the housing. When the switch is rotated in one direction, the tube is compressed between the stop and the closure member, thereby preventing fluid flow through the tube.

Abstract: A system is provided for aspirating fluid from a surgical site. The system includes an outlet tube that leads to a suction canister or other suitable receptacle for collecting fluid. The outlet tube includes an anti-siphon adapter which defines an atmospheric vent downstream of the outflow connection to an endoscopic device. The vent allows atmospheric pressure to enter the outlet tube to increase the pressure at the outflow of the endoscopic device.

Abstract: A bowel management system includes a waste collection catheter having at least two distinct sections. The first section is patient proximal when disposed in the patient's rectum and has durometer hardness in the range of about 50A to about 90A. The second catheter section is connected to the first section and has durometer hardness in the range of about 5A to about 49A. A selectively collapsible, substantially spherical retention balloon is attached coaxially and exterior of the first catheter section such that the proximal-most end of the retention balloon is coincident to the proximal-most end of the first section of the waste collection catheter, the substantially spherical retention balloon having an inflated size so as to be sufficiently large enough to retain the patient proximal end of the catheter in the patient's rectum without being so large as to trigger a defecatory response in the patient.

Abstract: A method for treating the excrement in a pouch, characterized in that it utilizes the fact that the pouch is generally made of a thermoplastic resin such as

Abstract: A system and method for the temporary closure of a wound, especially an abdominal wound, to facilitate re-entry, final closure, and long term healing of the wound. An abdominal wound dressing and methods of use are described that enable the application of negative pressure to the wound site in a site healing promoting manner while also limiting the formation of adhesions that would prevent the removal of the dressing. The dressing comprises a layer of porous foam material (36) enclosed by sheets of elastomeric material (38) punctuated by a number of appropriately placed holes (34). Multiple layers of porous foam may also be used. A suction tube connector (16) is provided on an upper surface of a layer of foam (12) for connection to a negative pressure source. At least one layer of foam is enclosed in elastomeric material and is placed in direct contact with the tissue within the open wound. Fluids are drawn by negative pressure through the holes positioned in the elastomeric envelope, and through the foam.

Abstract: A portable urinal for collecting and storing urine from a user is provided. The portable urinal includes a receptacle for collecting the urine, where the receptacle includes a body portion having an inlet sized to sufficiently receive the genitourinary area of the user, and an outlet. The portable urinal further includes a storage container for storing the urine, where the storage container has an inlet for receiving the urine from the receptacle. A connector attached to the storage container receives the storage container inlet and removably receives the receptacle outlet, such that the connector releasably joins the receptacle with the storage container allowing the urine to flow from the receptacle outlet into the storage container inlet.

Abstract: Disclosed is a disposable patient interface for an intraductal fluid aspiration system. The interface has a flexible tubular distal member for contacting the patient, and a rigid proximal member forming a vacuum chamber therein. The rigid member has a vacuum aperture for communication with a source of vacuum. The flexible member preferably has a low modulus of elasticity and a high tear strength, such that it can be stretched to fit over a rigid support without rupture.

Abstract: A suction unit comprises reciprocating change-over suction device 1 including tubular body 1a having with passage 2 and two branch passages 2a and 2b bifurcated from passage 2 connected to a suction apparatus. Cylinder 1b is movable in body 1a and has ventilation passages 4 and 5 and actuation plates 8 and 9 fixed to ends of cylinder 1b. Chambers 6 and 7 are connected to the end portions of body 1a with closing members closing openings of the chambers. Elastic containers 10 and 11 are contained in chambers 6 and 7, openings of these containers being fixed to inner surfaces of closing members 14 and 15. Closed valves 12 and 13 are on chambers 6 and 7 and suction tubes 18a and 18b are connected to inflow passages 16a and 16b of members 14 and 15 and, at another end, are connected to common suction tube 18. Discharging tubes 19a and 19b are connected to outflow passages 17a and 17b of members 14 and 15 and, at another end, to storage container 20.

Abstract: A medical suction system comprising a medical suction canister used in draining bodily fluid from a patient, and a cleaning station for automatically draining and cleaning the suction canister and for automatically providing a visible indication that the canister has been cleaned.

Abstract: A containerless tissue sample collection trap featuring, in the preferred embodiment, a flexible filter and an applicator having a shaft terminating in a distal end with a channel therein receiving a portion of the flexible filter, the combination of the applicator and the flexible filter receivable in a suction tube and configured such that when the applicator is removed, the flexible filter forms a removable elongated tissue trap in the suction tube. Also disclosed is a method of trapping tissue wholly within a suction tube thereby eliminating the need for a specimen trap container and a method of making a containerless tissue specimen trap.

Abstract: An improved smoke evacuation system and method for removing gaseous byproducts of surgical procedures and noxious vapors from chemicals is provided. The smoke and vapor evacuation system includes a vacuum head positionable at a surgical site or incorporated into a workstation. The vacuum head includes a plenum, and a plenum support for preventing the plenum from collapsing when a vacuum or low pressure is established therein, and is adapted to facilitate the use of the system in a variety of surgical or commercial procedures at a variety of surgical sites or commercial workstations.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a container device (1) for collecting urine. The container device comprises a holding member (5), a flexible container (1), connected to the holding member (5), which is arranged to receive the urine and a superabsorbent powder (4) enclosed is said flexible container, (1) and arranged to make the urine congeal. Said superabsorbent powder (4) is enclosed in the flexible container (1), in a package (3) which is manufactured in a urine soluble material.

Abstract: A system for disposing of body fluids collected during surgery comprises a canister and an apparatus for emptying and cleaning the canister. The canister has a lid having an inlet port to receive body fluids during surgery and for insertion of a cleaning fluid sprayer during servicing, an outlet port with a suction tube extending into the canister for removal of fluids therefrom, and a vacuum port for the application of vacuum to the canister. The servicing unit is an appliance having a receiving compartment in which the canister is placed. A connector head in the servicing unit connects the canister to a source of cleaning fluid and to a conduit for evacuating the fluids in the canister through the suction tube and to a decontamination chamber, where they are brought into contact with a disinfecting fluid, and subsequently to a drain.

Abstract: A urine specimen container system is disclosed for collecting urine from a woman. The urine specimen container system includes a receiving member for receiving urine expelled from a body of a user. The receiving member has a bottom wall with a perimeter, and a peripheral wall united to the perimeter of the bottom wall to define an interior of the receiving member. The bottom wall of the receiving member has a hole formed therein for draining urine from the interior of the receiving member through a bottom surface of the bottom wall. The system includes a container having an opening with an annular lip formed about the opening. A container securing structure on the receiving member removably secures the container to the receiving member by releasably engaging the annular lip on the container.

Abstract: A method and device for collection of a stool specimen. Formation of the device occurs in situ by providing a liquid absorbent polymer to water contained in a toilet bowl. The hydrated polymer forms a matrix that is capable of supported a stool specimen deposited thereon. The method and device provides a simple, economical, and less distasteful means for collecting, sampling and evaluating a stool specimen for diagnosis and/or therapy.

Abstract: A pneumatic medical system, which includes a collection canister with a lid. Integrally attached to the lid are inlet and outlet ports, a thumb valve to regulate the level of suction or pressure in the system, a clip to hold a loop of catheter, an endotracheal tube adaptor, and a single hole for a single-suction catheter. The suction catheter has telescoping lengths and sizes of catheter attached so that the user can increase the diameter of catheter to be used by removing smaller diameter catheters. A smaller diameter catheter can be removed by pulling the smaller diameter catheter through the telescoping nested attachment with the larger diameter catheter. If the canister becomes full or clogged, it can be easily cleared by tipping the canister and pouring the contents through the thumb valve. The system requires only one hand and is easy to hold and manipulate. A disposable and pre-filled irrigation system is also disclosed.

Abstract: A sampling port having a mechanical valve for a drainage apparatus is disclosed which permits a practitioner to directly access a collection chamber of the drainage apparatus using a needle-less syringe for withdrawing a sample of fluid therefrom. The sampling port comprises a port in direct communication with the collection chamber and a mechanical valve partially disposed inside the port. The mechanical valve comprises a generally tubular body containing a spring loaded valve that is normally closed to fluid flow communication and operable using a needle-less tip syringe to actuate the valve. In operation, a practitioner engages the needle-less tip syringe to the valve which places the valve in an open position and permits fluid flow into the syringe as the practitioner draws back on the plunger of the syringe.

Abstract: A safety fluid collector uses a quick release device to allow a healthcare worker to release a used needle into a sharps container with one hand, and in a short time after blood samples have been obtained. The thumb of the healthcare worker is used to rotate a button on the needle holder which releases the needle into a sharps container. The sharps container comprises a rotating gate which allows needles enter the container but which blocks the exit of used needles if the container is accidentally tipped over.

Abstract: Sample specimens such as biological samples are collected from the donor at a collection site and transferred to a transport container which includes RFID medium for carrying the chain of custody information generated at the collection site. The electronic signature of the donor and/or collector is captured to verify the chain of custody information and is included in the RFID medium record. Tamper-evident medium is used to insure the integrity of the sample specimen. The RFID medium may be separated from the container and recycled for subsequent use.

Abstract: A device for the drainage of the bladder through the body's own urethra opening outside of the human body, comprising a tube-shaped body (10). The tube-shaped body is comprised: to assume a first contracted position and for taken up within the bladder as well as a to assume a second partially extended position. At least one thread (14) extends between the bladder and an opening of the urethra and is attached at a first end of the tube-shaped body so that the tube-shaped body can be extended from the first position to the second position during the application of a pulling force upon the thread. The tube-shaped body in the second partially extended position extends in such a manner so as to exceed the distance between the bladder and the point of the urethra's closing. The tube-shaped body is comprised in such a manner that it will return to the first position upon the release of the pulling force on the thread.

Abstract: A fluid management assembly for use in an endoscopic procedure is provided. The assembly comprises a first line for fluid to flow therethrough from an endoscope to a Y-connector and a second line for fluid to flow therethrough from a drape to the Y-connector. The Y-connector is also in fluid communication with a third line which connects the Y-connector to a suction source which supplies a suction force and receives the fluid. According to the present invention the Y-connector is located in close proximate relation with respect to the suction source and the first and second lines are preferably co-joined along a portion of their lengths. The first and second lines define scope and drape legs, respectively, which are elongated in comparison to more conventional designs. These features of the present invention serve to optimize distention and eliminate pressure fluctuations in the operative organ during the surgical procedure.

Abstract: The present invention is a collection container assembly comprising a container having a wall space between the inner and outer wall of said tube whereby the external dimensions of the container are substantially the same as a standard-sized blood collection tube but with a reduced internal volume.

Abstract: A system 10 is provided for automatically evacuating a water trap 50 of a ventilator 20. The ventilator 20 delivers air through a humidifying water heater 30 and along an air supply line 40 to a patient requiring breathing assistance. A dip 44 in the air supply line 40 is configured with a water trap 50 for collecting condensate within the air supply line 40. A suction line 60 is located within the water trap 50 at a tip 62 and has an end 68 outside of the water trap 50 which is coupled to a canister 70. The canister 70 is also coupled to a vacuum source 100 through a valve 80. When the valve 80 is in a first open position, the vacuum source 100 provides suction along the suction line 60 so that liquids collecting within the water trap 50 are evacuated out of the water trap 50 and delivered into the canister 70. A controller 90 controls the frequency with which the valve 80 is opened and a duration for which the valve 80 remains in the opened position.

Abstract: A specimen collection assembly for providing convenience for the user when collecting one's specimen. The specimen collection assembly includes a cup member having side and bottom walls, and also having an open top and a spout portion for dispensing specimen from the cup member; and also includes a lid member being removably attached upon the cup member; and further includes a telescopic handle member having a plurality of tubular members and being attached to the cup member.

Abstract: A container for receiving and holding emesis has an inclined body providing an inclined chamber for storing emesis. A curved funnel has a small end joined to the body and a large inclined end surrounding an inclined mouth. A handle is joined to the funnel adjacent the lower portion of the large inclined end. A cover is snapped on the large inclined end of the funnel to contain emesis and odor within the container.

Abstract: An ophthalmic surgical pump system 32 includes a collection reservoir 54 and a venturi pump 56 for creating a vacuum level for aspirating fluid and tissue from a surgical site to the collection reservoir 54. Aspiration tubing 50 connects to each of a surgical handpiece 46 and the collection reservoir 54. A flow meter 34 is electrically connected to either the aspiration tube 50 or the collection reservoir 54. Control circuitry 38 is connected to the flow meter 34 and to the venturi pump 56 for varying a vacuum level of the pump 56 to maintain a desired flow rate of the fluid and tissue being aspirated from the surgical site.

Abstract: Personal Bede Enema is used for washing away feces and cleaning the intestines of a body.

Abstract: In a system which utilizes an endoscope and irrigation fluid during surgery within a body orifice, and in which irrigation fluid is withdrawn via a principal path into a suction canister, there is a substantially constant suction and withdrawal rate from the operative site to limit absorption of irrigation fluid within the patient, because a bifurcated flow path that leads to the suction canister not only from the endoscope but also from a drain bag receiving overflow from the body orifice via a tailored drape includes a substantially greater flow impedance in the drain bag path. The common suction line joined to the endoscope line and the drain bag line draws a flow through the endoscope that predominates, to maintain substantially constant withdrawal of irrigation fluid via that path, and substantially eliminates the possibility of loss of suction.

Abstract: A waste evacuator to vacate waste products from a stoma having an inlet adapted to seal over the stoma and when operated to vacate waste products from the shortened bowel. The waste evacuator could be battery or manually operated.

Abstract: An apparatus for taking an intestinal sample of a human or animal patient comprises a holder part (1) and an expandable part (2) supported by the holder part and having one or more sampling areas (8) on the surface thereof. The expandable part (2) is in a non-expanded state rectally insertable into and retractable from the patient's intestine, and in an expanded state, inserted into the patient's intestine, the expandable part is capable of contacting the intestinal wall with at least one sampling area (8; 14). The apparatus further comprises protective livers (7a, 7b) for preventing said sampling area or areas (8) from contact with the intestinal wall and intestinal fluid at least when the expandable part (2) in the non-expanded state is being rectally inserted into the patient's intestine.

Abstract: A blood removal device utilizing a wicking element. The wicking element includes a surface exposed to blood and a zone within which is spaced from the exposed surface. An antithrombotic material is applied and held to the surface of the wicking element. A suction force is applied to the zone of the wicking element spaced from the surface exposed to the blood.