Means And Methods For Collecting Body Fluids Or Waste Material (e.g., Receptacles, Etc.) Patents (Class 604/317)
  • Patent number: 8328778
    Abstract: Various embodiments of a fluid collection system having multiple storage chambers are disclosed. In an exemplary embodiment, the system may include a first chamber in fluid communication with a suction source and a second chamber in fluid communication with the first chamber. The second chamber may have a volume less than a volume of the first chamber. The second chamber may also comprise an inlet port for connecting to an external tube. The system may be configured to selectively drain liquid from the second chamber into the first chamber.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 19, 2010
    Date of Patent: December 11, 2012
    Assignee: Allegiance Corporation
    Inventors: Thomas L. Michaels, Russ A. Johnson, Jeannie Thomas
  • Patent number: 8328777
    Abstract: An apparatus and method are provided for harvesting biological material from an umbilical cord. A drain functions to drain the material from the umbilical cord. The apparatus includes a seal member for sealing an open end of an umbilical cord with the drain. A support is provided to support the seal member. An actuator is provided to adjust the engagement of the seal member with the umbilical cord. Moving the actuator relative to the support allows the seal member to twist about the umbilical cord to seal against the umbilical cord to effect drainage of material from the umbilical cord to the drain without leakage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 28, 2009
    Date of Patent: December 11, 2012
    Inventor: Roman Kuzyk
  • Patent number: 8328792
    Abstract: The present disclosure relates to a pre-wetted intermittent catheter apparatus including a collapsible container having a conduit positioned therein as well as a wetting fluid. The conduit has a lubricious coating disposed thereon such that the coating is hydrated upon contact with the wetting fluid in the container, providing a slippery surface for the conduit, which facilitates introduction of the conduit into a user. An introduction member may be incorporated into the distal end of the container and a disposal member may be incorporated into the proximal end, each respectively being positioned in an opening in the container and in communication with the conduit such that fluid flow through the conduit (positioned in the container) is enabled. A bag may be attached to or incorporated into the disposal member to provide a closed system such that the user or assistant is not exposed to potential contaminants.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 25, 2006
    Date of Patent: December 11, 2012
    Assignee: C. R. Bard, Inc.
    Inventors: Vasu Nishtala, Michael O'Grady, Robert Young
  • Patent number: 8323255
    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 50 A to about 90 A. The second catheter section is connected to the first section and has durometer hardness in the range of about 5 A to about 49 A. 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.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 11, 2009
    Date of Patent: December 4, 2012
    Assignee: Hollister Incorporated
    Inventors: Nick Martino, James G. Schneider, Peter M. von Dyck, Jae Hwang Kim, John S. Minasi
  • Patent number: 8323254
    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.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 24, 2007
    Date of Patent: December 4, 2012
    Assignee: ConvaTec Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Mingliang Lawrence Tsai, Christopher Gregory
  • Patent number: 8323265
    Abstract: Apparatus is disclosed for applying negative pressure to a wound site to promote healing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 6, 2009
    Date of Patent: December 4, 2012
    Assignee: KCI Licensing, Inc.
    Inventor: Keith Patrick Heaton
  • Patent number: 8308704
    Abstract: Various embodiments of a fluid collection system having multiple storage chambers are disclosed. In an exemplary embodiment, the system may include a first chamber in fluid communication with a suction source and a second chamber in fluid communication with the first chamber. The second chamber may have a volume less than a volume of the first chamber. The second chamber may also comprise an inlet port for connecting to an external tube. The system may be configured to selectively drain liquid from the second chamber into the first chamber.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 19, 2010
    Date of Patent: November 13, 2012
    Assignee: Allegiance Corporation
    Inventors: Thomas L. Michaels, Russ A. Johnson, Jeannie Thomas
  • Patent number: 8303554
    Abstract: A body interface device for a urine aspiration system comprises a skin contact pad with gel adhesive for adhering to the skin, and a flexible cover attached to the pad. The pad includes at least one aperture for admitting urine through the pad into the body interface device. The flexible cover has a bulged form projecting away from the gasket. The flexible cover defines a urine receiving chamber facing towards the gasket, and recess facing away from the chamber for receiving at least a portion of a non-contact liquid sensor. The recess and chamber have a wall portion in common that separates the recess and the chamber. A liquid acquisition material in the chamber receives and transports urine for rapid sensing by the non-contact sensor. An aspiration unit is responsive to the non-contact liquid sensor to apply aspiration suction to the body interface device, upon detection of urine.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 20, 2008
    Date of Patent: November 6, 2012
    Assignee: ConvaTec Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Mingliang Lawrence Tsai, Tinh Nguyen-DeMary
  • Patent number: 8303555
    Abstract: A collector for a negative pressure wound therapy system has a soft collecting bag with a gas-permeable unit and a liquid absorber. The collecting bag is connected to a wound-dressing unit via an inlet connecting set and is connected to a sensor assembly via a detecting connecting set. With the soft collecting bag, the collector occupies less volume. By the gas-permeable unit and the liquid absorber, the liquid and gas entering into the collecting bag quickly isolate. Moreover, multiple collectors connect in series to form a collector combination to reduce the frequency to replace the collector combination so that a longer usage time of the collector combination is available.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 31, 2010
    Date of Patent: November 6, 2012
    Assignee: Apex Medical Corp.
    Inventors: Luo-Hwa Miau, Jhy-Wen Wu, Jen-Chien Chien, Li-Ling Li, Nan-Kuang Yao
  • Patent number: 8303553
    Abstract: The invention relates to a flow limiter for a fluid flowing in an aspiration branch of a surgical system, which fluid is a surgical fluid and has emulsified particles in a surgical intervention, with a limiter element that comprises at least one flow channel arrangement with at least one main channel and at least one subsidiary channel that opens into the main channel at an angle of greater than or equal to 90°. The invention also relates to a surgical system, in particular an ophthalmic microsurgical system for lens surgery.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 19, 2008
    Date of Patent: November 6, 2012
    Assignee: Carl Zeiss Meditec AG
    Inventors: Christoph Kuebler, Martin Kraus, Michael Eichler, Tobias Maier
  • Patent number: 8292859
    Abstract: A urine collection system includes a collection element configured for operable connection to a catheter for accumulating urine expelled from a subject and defining an opening for passage of the urine from the collection element and a drainage device extending from the collection element and positioned about the opening in the collection element. The drainage device includes a drain spout defining an outlet port disposed above the opening in the collection element. Urine collected in the collection element exits the opening within the collection element to be drained through the outlet port of the drain spout until the volume of urine reaches a predetermined level below the outlet port. Upon reaching the predetermined level, the urine remaining within the drainage device establishes a fluid trap substantially preventing contaminants from entering the collection element through the opening.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 12, 2008
    Date of Patent: October 23, 2012
    Assignee: Tyco Healthcare Group LP
    Inventor: Lawrence A. Salvadori
  • Patent number: 8292857
    Abstract: A medical waste fluid collection and disposal system includes a medical waste fluid collection cart including first and second fluid collection canisters. A valve assembly selectively communicates with the canisters and a valve drive system controls the valve assembly. A liquid level sensor is positioned within each of the canisters. A cart processor communicates with the liquid level sensors and the valve drive system. A cart drain line communicates with the valve assembly and a receptacle, a cart flushing line communicates with the valve assembly and the receptacle and a cart data line and a cart power line communicate with the cart processor and the cart receptacle. A station includes a drain pump that communicates with a drainage system and a station drain line, a flushing pump that communicates with a source of washing liquid and a station flushing line and a station processor in communication with the drain and flushing pumps. A station data line communicates with the station processor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 6, 2008
    Date of Patent: October 23, 2012
    Assignee: Dornoch Medical Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: Anthony Martini, Lawrence Guerra
  • Patent number: 8292856
    Abstract: Drainage system including a ventricular catheter, a drainage catheter, and a positive displacement pump that can function to actively drain CSF from the ventricles of the brain of a patient. Methods of using a drainage system in accordance with the invention are also disclosed, as well as kits.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 18, 2007
    Date of Patent: October 23, 2012
    Assignee: Medtronic, Inc.
    Inventors: William J. Bertrand, Derek J. Harper, Lori Cone Speckman, Andrew R Kiehl, Ron D Scheer
  • Patent number: 8287508
    Abstract: A urine collection device and a moisture-wicking article for use in a system for transporting urine voided from a person or an animal by collecting the urine in a moisture-wicking article that is disposed in contact with a region surrounding an urethral, opening, and drawing the urine into the collection device from the moisture-wicking article. The urine collection device includes a container defining an empty chamber for collecting urine. An elongated exterior of the container is configured and dimensioned for enabling a moisture-wicking article to be secured over the array of openings of the container by wrapping the article over the array and securing the wrapped article, and for enabling a said secured moisture-wicking article to be disposed in contact with the region of a female body surrounding the urethral opening.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 21, 2010
    Date of Patent: October 16, 2012
    Inventor: Robert A. Sanchez
  • Patent number: 8282613
    Abstract: A disposable urine bag is provided. The bag includes an upper delimiting edge, a lower delimiting edge and lateral delimiting edges defining a space in the bag. The lower delimiting edge includes a drain valve, whose first drain mouthing in a first hollow element communicates with the space in the bag, and whose second mouthing in a second element is situated outside the delimiting edges of the bag. The drain valve is a disposable valve including a seal between the first and the second element and at least one indicator situated in the area of the seal. A disposable urine bag is provided whereby the drain valve seal may be broken without using significant finger strength and without a risk of the user being soiled with urine.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 26, 2004
    Date of Patent: October 9, 2012
    Assignee: Unomedical A/S
    Inventor: Bjarne Lasse Christensen
  • Patent number: 8273074
    Abstract: A wound exudate removal and isolation system includes a porous dressing, a canister in fluid communication with the dressing, and a first valve positioned between the dressing and the canister. The first valve is positionable between an open position and a closed position. A disposal line is fluidly connected to the canister and includes a second valve that is positionable between an open position and a closed position. A pump is fluidly connected to the canister and is configured to draw wound exudate from the dressing into the canister when the first valve is open and the second valve is closed. The pump is configured to force wound exudate from the canister into the disposal line when the first valve is closed and the second valve is open.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 6, 2006
    Date of Patent: September 25, 2012
    Assignee: KCI Licensing, Inc.
    Inventors: Jonathan Jaeb, Tab Randolph, Randall Kelch, Xiaolu Zheng, Devin Ginther, Tianning Xu, Jennifer N. Novak, T. Blane Sanders
  • Patent number: 8267919
    Abstract: A catheter assembly is disclosed comprising: a hydrophilic catheter; a wetting fluid for wetting of the catheter; and a receptacle enclosing at least the insertable part of the catheter and the wetting fluid. Further, the wetting fluid is a solution incorporating at least one osmolality-increasing compound, and the total concentration of the osmolality-increasing compound(s) is very high, preferably exceeding 600 mOsm/dm3. The wetting fluid could either be arranged in contact with the hydrophilic surface layer of the catheter in the receptacle, for preservation of the hydrophilic surface layer in a wetted state during accommodation in said receptacle and provision of a ready-to-use catheter assembly, or be arranged to keep the wetting fluid separated from the hydrophilic surface layer of the catheter during storage, but to be brought into contact with said hydrophilic surface layer upon activation before an intended use of the catheter. A similar method and wetting fluid is disclosed as well.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 22, 2004
    Date of Patent: September 18, 2012
    Assignee: Astra Tech AB
    Inventors: Jan Utas, Kristina Kull
  • Patent number: 8267909
    Abstract: A canister for use with a medical suction or aspiration device has a first fluid chamber and a second fluid chamber. The first fluid chamber has an inlet. The second fluid chamber has an outlet port. A splash baffle is disposed between the first fluid chamber and the second fluid chamber. The splash baffle has an aperture formed therethrough to allow for fluid flow from the first fluid chamber to the second fluid chamber. An absorbent valve having voids is disposed within the second fluid chamber and engages a portion of the outlet port. The absorbent valve restricting fluid permeability upon contact with fluid from the first fluid chamber to restrict fluid flow through the outlet port.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 1, 2008
    Date of Patent: September 18, 2012
    Assignee: DeVilbiss Healthcare, LLC
    Inventors: Francis J. Clementi, Joel David Neatrour
  • Patent number: 8267908
    Abstract: An apparatus, system, and method for storing liquid from a tissue site are presented. The apparatus includes a delivery tube that may have at least one lumen. The delivery tube may be operable to transmit reduced pressure to the tissue site and to receive liquid from the tissue site. The apparatus may also include an absorbent material disposed in the at least one lumen. The absorbent material may be operable to absorb the liquid from the tissue site. The delivery tube may be formed with a number of recesses.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 21, 2008
    Date of Patent: September 18, 2012
    Assignee: KCI Licensing, Inc.
    Inventor: Richard Daniel John Coulthard
  • Patent number: 8256422
    Abstract: A respiratory access assembly includes a distal plate having a port, which is adapted to be positioned in operable communication with an artificial airway of a patient. The assembly includes a distal plate having a port and a proximal plate which has a first port and a second port. The distal plate is positioned against the proximal plate in a stacked configuration, and each plate is configured to move relative to the other. The assembly has an actuator which is positioned adjacent to at least one plate. The actuator cooperates with both plates to substantially prevent movement of the plates when the port of the distal plate is positioned in an alignment with at least one port of the proximal plate and an object, such as a suction catheter, is positioned through the aligned ports of the plates. The actuator cooperates with at least one plate to permit movement of at least one plate when (a) no object is positioned through aligned ports, and (b) when no ports are aligned.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 15, 2009
    Date of Patent: September 4, 2012
    Assignee: Kimberly-Clark Worldwide, Inc
    Inventors: John Brewer, Cassandra E. Morris, Joe Gordon, David Zitnick
  • Patent number: 8257329
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a contraband retrieval device that can be used as a law enforcement tool that allows a law enforcement officer to retrieve items that are ingested or inserted into the body. A pan includes a plurality of apertures in a bottom thereof. Drug use, excrement can be retrieved in the pan and with water or a suitable liquid can be washed away leaving behind contraband substances which was contained in the excrement in the pan. The contraband substances can be retrieved from the pan and placed into evidence in a criminal investigation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 24, 2009
    Date of Patent: September 4, 2012
    Inventor: Myron Jefferson
  • Patent number: 8260578
    Abstract: The method uses a location device and a timing element to determine the location of a protection device at various periods of time. During these periods of time, the human may be participating in a variety of activities and positions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 19, 2008
    Date of Patent: September 4, 2012
    Assignee: The Procter & Gamble Company
    Inventors: Tana Marie Kirkbride, Thomas Ward Osborn, III, Reginald Edward Crutcher, II, Marie Brigid O'Reilly
  • Publication number: 20120209203
    Abstract: A medical device for applying catheters, particularly for thoracentesis procedures, comprising a hollow supporting element which can be gripped ergonomically and accommodates a selector which is adapted to connect at least three openings defined in the supporting element, the first opening being functionally associated with a cannula adapted to be inserted in the body of a patient, the second opening and the third opening being able to be functionally associated respectively with two closure elements or with at least one of a syringe and a collection bag, a sharp-tipped needle being slidingly insertable in the cannula and having such a length as to pass through at least all of the cannula and protrude from it, the device further comprising a fourth opening defined in the supporting element on the side opposite the first opening for extraction or insertion of the sharp-tipped needle respectively from and into the cannula.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 4, 2010
    Publication date: August 16, 2012
    Inventors: Lucio Gibertoni, Andrea Gibertoni
  • Patent number: 8241260
    Abstract: A liquid streaming device for treating a wound includes a body having a lower surface for application to skin region around the wound to be treated and to conform to the contour of the skin region, and an upper surface facing outwardly when the body is applied to the skin region; a recess formed in the lower surface of the body and configured to enclose the wound when the body is applied to the skin region, and to define a chamber closed on one side by the skin region and the wound, and on the opposite side by the body; an inlet in the body on one side of the recess for introducing a treating liquid into an inlet side of the chamber; and an outlet in the body on another side of the recess for outletting the treating liquid from an outlet side of the chamber.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 21, 2008
    Date of Patent: August 14, 2012
    Assignee: EnzySurge Ltd.
    Inventors: Sagi Livne, Amir Shiner, Rafi Koby, Shlomo Namdar Kaufman
  • Patent number: 8235972
    Abstract: A suction head in fluid communication with a pump head provides a sub-ambient working pressure to a target area, enabling drainage thereof to a waste container. The pump head is coupled non-mechanically to a pump drive. A control system for a suction system is also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 8, 2006
    Date of Patent: August 7, 2012
    Inventor: Carmeli Adahan
  • Patent number: 8235955
    Abstract: An apparatus for cleansing wounds in which irrigant fluid from a reservoir connected to a conformable wound dressing 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 stressing the wound bed and optionally tissue surrounding the wound. The former removes materials deleterious to wound healing, while distributing materials that are beneficial in promoting wound healing over the wound bed. The latter promotes wound healing. The dressing and a method of treatment using the apparatus.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 27, 2006
    Date of Patent: August 7, 2012
    Assignee: Smith & Nephew PLC
    Inventors: Patrick L. Blott, Edward Y. Hartwell, Julian Lee-Webb, Derek Nicolini
  • Patent number: 8221366
    Abstract: A system and method are disclosed for automatically limiting the drainage of a bodily fluid such as cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) from a patient into a collection chamber. The collection chamber includes a vent having an hydrophobic filter for the passage of air to facilitate the movement of CSF yet to maintain a closed system. The system includes a buoyant float hingedly connected with the top of the collection chamber in one embodiment. When fluid rises in the collection chamber to a predetermined volume, buoyant force raises the float and causes a seal plug mounted on top of the float to seal one of an inflow port or a vent port. The float is limited to pivoting movement in one plane and to a certain angle within that plane. The system and method avoid overdrainage of CSF from the patient and overfilling of the collection chamber.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 2, 2008
    Date of Patent: July 17, 2012
    Assignee: Integra LifeSciences Corporation
    Inventors: Brian Hoffman, Michael McDermott, William R. Chang, Eric Scott Clasen
  • Patent number: 8216197
    Abstract: A medical canister connector is presented for connecting to a medical canister, which has a patient port and a reduced-pressure port. The medical canister connector includes a first connection member that is coupled to a patient-port-attachment member, which is for coupling to a patient port on a medical canister and has a patient-port opening with a first longitudinal axis. The medical canister connector also includes a second connection member coupled to a reduced-pressure-port-attachment member, which is for coupling to a reduced-pressure port on the medical canister and has a reduced-pressure-port opening with a second longitudinal axis. A spacing member or pressure transport member may be used to couple the first connection member to the second connection member. The spacing member or transport member flexes and twists during connection. The medical canister connector may also help organize one or more pressure-sensing conduits. Methods are also presented.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 15, 2009
    Date of Patent: July 10, 2012
    Assignee: KCI Licensing, Inc
    Inventors: Tyler Simmons, Alexander Sammons, Kenneth Knowles
  • Patent number: 8216199
    Abstract: A removable manifold for a medical/surgical waste collection system. The manifold is dimensioned to be mounted to a receiver integral with the system. The manifold includes a driver for engaging a complementary valve internal to the receiver. The valve regulates flow between the receiver and the down line components of the waste collection system. The valve is normally closed. When the manifold is fitted to the receiver the driver engages the valve so as move the valve to the open position. This allows fluid flow from the manifold and receiver to the downstream components of the system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 5, 2009
    Date of Patent: July 10, 2012
    Assignee: Stryker Corporation
    Inventors: Sean A Murray, David Hershberger, Brent S. Lalomia, Stephen Reasoner, Stephen Isham
  • Patent number: 8216175
    Abstract: Fluid removal systems and methods for removing fluid from a tissue site are presented. The system includes a semi-permeable inbound conduit, which is fluidly coupled to a treatment-fluid delivery unit, for placement proximate to the tissue site, and a semi-permeable outbound conduit, which is fluidly coupled to the inbound conduit and to a treatment-fluid collector, for placement proximate to the tissue site of a patient. The treatment-fluid collector receives a treatment fluid and a recruited fluid from the tissue site. A recruited-fluid determination unit may be coupled to the treatment-fluid collector to determine a volume of fluid recruited from the patient. The treatment fluid is any fluid (including a gas) that pulls fluid from the interstitial and intracellular space. A reduced-pressure treatment subsystem may also be included, among other things, for removing ascites and other fluids from a body cavity.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 15, 2009
    Date of Patent: July 10, 2012
    Assignee: KCI Licensing, Inc.
    Inventors: George Hutchinson, Richard Paul Mormino
  • Patent number: 8206364
    Abstract: The collecting bag is intended for human body wastes and has a bag member (1) and a discharge portion (8) including a discharge opening (9). The bag member (1) and the discharge portion (8) are formed by a first and a second film blank (2, 3). A first plate member (21) is positioned on the first film blank (2) and a second plate member (22) is positioned on an extension (3e) of the second film blank (3) such that the plate members have a distance (d) between them. Two strap members (23, 24) are positioned between the first and the second plate member (21, 22).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 4, 2007
    Date of Patent: June 26, 2012
    Assignee: Coloplast A/S
    Inventor: Lars Olav Schertiger
  • Patent number: 8202493
    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.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 19, 2009
    Date of Patent: June 19, 2012
    Assignee: Genesis Biosystems, Inc.
    Inventor: Brian Buss
  • Patent number: 8197467
    Abstract: A modular, reduced-pressure, wound-closure system for providing a closing force on a surface would includes a flexible strap operable to be formed into a closed loop inbound and around the surface wound and a plurality of modular closing members coupled to the flexible strap. A reduced-pressure source is fluidly coupled to the plurality of modular closing members. The modular closing members are operable to generate a closing force on the surface wound. A portion of the modular closing members are releasably attached to the patient's epidermis proximate the surface wound and another portion are attached to the flexible strap. A reduced pressure from the reduced-pressure source is delivered to each modular closing member to generate the closing force on the surface wound. Methods and other systems are presented.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 15, 2009
    Date of Patent: June 12, 2012
    Assignee: KCI Licensing, Inc
    Inventors: Keith Patrick Heaton, Christopher Guy Coward, Colin John Hall
  • Patent number: 8192410
    Abstract: A control device for controlling drainage of waste from a surgical stoma of a human body. The control device comprises a first cylindrical hollow body member, a drain tube extending from the first cylindrical hollow body member, a second cylindrical hollow body member rotatably coupled to the first cylindrical hollow body member and a knob configured on the second cylindrical hollow body member. The first cylindrical hollow body member comprises a skirt portion extending radially outward for being removably attached to a surface surrounding the surgical stoma of the human body. The second cylindrical hollow body member comprises an aperture configured on the second sidewall. A rotation of the knob is capable of aligning the aperture of the second cylindrical hollow body member with the drain tube of the first cylindrical hollow body member thereby forming a passage for draining the waste.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 12, 2009
    Date of Patent: June 5, 2012
    Inventors: Stephen Smith, Deborah Smith
  • Patent number: 8192412
    Abstract: According to one aspect of the disclosure, a portable fluid storage device comprises a fluid impervious container having an interior space for the collection of human waste and a hollow tailpiece removably extending from the fluid impervious container and providing sealed fluid communication between an inlet end of the hollow tailpiece and the interior space. A cap is removably disposed at the inlet end of the hollow tailpiece and has a lumen disposed therethrough to provide a point of entry for the human waste into the portable fluid storage device. A flexible conduit is movably disposed within and removable from the hollow tailpiece and has an inlet end removably connected to an outlet end of the cap and an outlet end in fluid communication with the interior space of the fluid impervious container.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 24, 2008
    Date of Patent: June 5, 2012
    Inventor: Larry Waller
  • Patent number: 8188331
    Abstract: A see-through dressing assembly is presented for use with a reduced-pressure system for treating a wound on a patient using reduced pressure that allows visual observation of the wound during treatment. The dressing assembly includes a bolster for providing a directed force when under reduced pressure, a sealing member for covering the bolster and providing a seal over the bolster and a patient's epidermis, and wherein the bolster and sealing member are formed from see-through materials sufficient to allow perception of color from a point external to the system. Other systems, dressings, and methods are presented.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 29, 2009
    Date of Patent: May 29, 2012
    Assignee: KCI Licensing, Inc.
    Inventors: Eric Woodson Barta, Justin Alexander Long, Richard Marvin Kazala, Jr., Matthew Francis Cavanaugh, II, Michael Girouard, Kenneth Mitchel Knowles
  • Patent number: 8181651
    Abstract: A device and method for suctioning mucus and secretions from a patient's tracheostomy tube is described. The device utilizes a reusable squeezable bulb with check valves to regulate air flow in and out of the squeezable bulb and a disposable mucus trap and suction catheter to suction a tracheostomy tube effectively and discretely without using an electrically powered suction machine.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 22, 2008
    Date of Patent: May 22, 2012
    Assignee: Passy-Muir, Inc.
    Inventor: Lloyd Jay Pinel
  • Patent number: 8177765
    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.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 12, 2007
    Date of Patent: May 15, 2012
    Assignee: Adapta Medical, Inc.
    Inventor: Jamie Glen House
  • Patent number: 8177763
    Abstract: A portable system for subatmospheric pressure therapy in connection with healing a surgical wound includes a wound dressing dimensioned for positioning relative to a wound bed of a subject and a collection canister in fluid communication with the wound dressing. The canister includes a first vacuum chamber for drawing a vacuum and a second fluid chamber for collecting fluids removed from the wound dressing under the vacuum. The vacuum chamber may have a vacuum and a power source. The canister further includes a hydrophobic membrane separating the first and the second fluid vacuum chambers. The hydrophobic membrane is dimensioned to span a major portion of the cross-sectional area of the canister. The hydrophobic membrane may be dimensioned to substantially span an internal dimension of the collection canister. The hydrophobic membrane may include one or more outwardly extending lobes. The outwardly extending lobes may be arranged in staggered relation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 5, 2008
    Date of Patent: May 15, 2012
    Assignee: Tyco Healthcare Group LP
    Inventor: Joel D. Wiesner
  • Patent number: 8177736
    Abstract: The invention relates to a device and to a method for monitoring access to vessels during extracorporeal blood treatment. The invention forms a loop in the arterial and/or venous line and provides device for fixing a section of the line in a loop. When the line is stressed under tension, the loop contracts and the line finally kinks. The modification of the diameter of the line and the formation of a kink in the line leads to a rise of pressure in the line, which is monitored by a pressure monitoring device. If the pressure exceeds a predetermined threshold value, the aspirating cannula is in danger of slipping out of the vessel access or has partially or completely slipped out, thus allowing the threshold value to be determined for alarms.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 8, 2006
    Date of Patent: May 15, 2012
    Assignee: Fresenius Medical Care Deutschland GmbH
    Inventor: Pascal Kopperschmidt
  • Publication number: 20120116328
    Abstract: A valve for a urine bag includes a guide member having a connection end at one end thereof and a plurality of holes are defined through a wall of the guide member. A sleeve is connected to the connection end and a movable member is movably located in the guide member. The movable member includes a base and a guide rod extends from an end of the base. The valve is connected to the connection part of the urine bag and when urine passes through the guide member, the movable member is pushed away from the sleeve to allow the urine to flow into the urine bag. The movable member is moved to contact the sleeve when the urine in the urine bag flows backward. The base seals the sleeve to stop the urine flowing back to the user.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 8, 2010
    Publication date: May 10, 2012
    Inventors: Chien-Hsiung Hung, Tzu-Chen Huang
  • Patent number: 8172771
    Abstract: A tissue sample collection device and method are described and disclosed. The tissue sample collection device has a filter that is removably disposed within a sleeve. The filter has an open proximal end and an internal passageway that is in fluid communication with the open proximal end for the passage of fluids. The filter is substantially impermeable to tissue samples but allows the passage of fluids into the internal passageway at a plurality of spaced apart locations along at least a portion of the filter's length. When used to collect tissue samples, the samples are collected on the exterior surface of the filter. Thus, the filter can be removed from the sleeve, and samples can be removed from the exterior surface of the filter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 13, 2008
    Date of Patent: May 8, 2012
    Assignee: Suros Surgical Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: Michael E. Miller, Terry D. Hardin
  • Patent number: 8172818
    Abstract: A reduced pressure treatment system includes a liquid-collection canister for collecting liquid from a tissue site to which reduced pressure treatment is applied. The canister includes a first space configured to collect the liquid from the tissue site and a filter having a frame and a non-planar filter element. The filter defines a second space within the canister separated from the first space by the filter element. The filter element substantially prevents liquid from passing from the first space into the second space. The filter element substantially allows gaseous communication between the first space and the second space when the second space is exposed to a reduced pressure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 4, 2009
    Date of Patent: May 8, 2012
    Assignee: KCI Licensing, Inc.
    Inventors: Christopher Brian Locke, Aidan Marcus Tout, Benjamin Andrew Pratt
  • Patent number: 8172817
    Abstract: Various embodiments of a fluid collection system having multiple storage chambers are disclosed. In an exemplary embodiment, the system may include a first chamber in fluid communication with a suction source and a second chamber in fluid communication with the first chamber. The second chamber may have a volume less than a volume of the first chamber. The second chamber may also comprise an inlet port for connecting to an external tube. The system may be configured to selectively drain liquid from the second chamber into the first chamber.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 31, 2007
    Date of Patent: May 8, 2012
    Assignee: Allegiance Corporation
    Inventors: Thomas L. Michaels, Russ A. Johnson, Jeannie Thomas
  • Patent number: 8172832
    Abstract: A fat harvesting container that safely harvests human body fat, whereby it minimizes exposure to air and bacteria to reduce contamination risks. It comprises a container assembly. A funnel structure is secured within the container assembly. The funnel structure comprises a top edge, an aperture, a sidewall, and a connecting line that extends from the aperture. A lid assembly comprises a top wall having a first outlet and a first inlet. The lid assembly also comprises a sidewall and a channel that aligns with to receive the first top edge when the lid assembly is placed thereon with a predetermined force to seal the container assembly. The instant invention also comprises a tubing assembly. The container assembly further comprises a first valve assembly, and the tubing assembly comprises at least first, second, third, and fourth tubes, and a second valve assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 7, 2009
    Date of Patent: May 8, 2012
    Inventor: Ruben Gonzalez
  • Patent number: 8167857
    Abstract: An ostomy drainage system comprising an ostomy bag or pouch connected by tubes to a container which is connected via tubes to a vacuum device whereby the contents of the ostomy bag can be suctioned into the container to prevent frequent changing of the ostomy bag thereby improving sanitation and convenience for ostomy patients.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 22, 2008
    Date of Patent: May 1, 2012
    Inventor: Margarita James
  • Patent number: 8162909
    Abstract: An apparatus for aspirating, irrigating and/or cleansing wounds (1) using cells or tissues to cleanse the circulating fluid to enhance wound healing by destroying or limiting the harmful substances in the circulating fluid from the wound (5) thus enhancing the beneficial substances.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 15, 2006
    Date of Patent: April 24, 2012
    Assignee: Smith & Nephew PLC
    Inventors: Patrick Lewis Blott, Bryan Greener, Edward Yerbury Hartwell, Julian Lee-Webb, Derek Nicolini
  • Patent number: 8157774
    Abstract: Apparatus and methods for collecting stem cells from an umbilical cord utilize a plurality of needles that are inserted into the umbilical cord. The needles may be fenestrated, and may have a common output to a line via which the stem cells are collected. A negative pressure source, such as a vacuum, may be used to draw the cells through the needles and the line. Apparatus for holding the umbilical cord, compressing the umbilical cord, positioning the plurality of needles in relation to the umbilical cord, guiding insertion of the needles toward and into the umbilical cord, withdrawing blood from the umbilical cord, and/or collecting blood withdrawn from the umbilical cord may be provided. One or more one-way check valves may be used to control fluid flow. Additionally or alternatively, a shunt may be used during blood collection to prevent backflow through the needles.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 16, 2007
    Date of Patent: April 17, 2012
    Assignee: DEKA Products Limited Partnership
    Inventor: David E. Altobelli
  • Patent number: 8152786
    Abstract: A catheter for collecting fluid such as blood from a vessel such as a coronary sinus of a patient has an elongated, flexible tubular portion and an annular sealing member spaced from a distal end of the tubular member. A proximal end of the tubular member is adapted to be connected to a source of suction for applying suction to a collection lumen of the tubular member. The distal end is placed in a blood vessel with the sealing member spaced from opposing surface of the vessel in an absence of a suction applied to the collection lumen. Suction is applied to the collection lumen in an amount sufficient to draw blood from the vessel through the fluid inlet and into the collection lumen and further sufficient to urge the opposing surface of the vessel to migrate into sealing engagement with the sealing member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 7, 2006
    Date of Patent: April 10, 2012
    Assignee: Osprey Medical, Inc.
    Inventors: James Edward Shapland, Tuan Minh Doan, Mark Francis Brown
  • Patent number: 8152785
    Abstract: The present disclosure describes a dressing for use in a vacuum wound therapy procedure to promote healing of a wound. The dressing includes a cover layer for positioning over a wound to define a reservoir in which a reduced pressure may be maintained over the wound. A portal member is mounted relative to the cover layer and defines a fluid passage for fluid coupling with a reduced pressure supply conduit for creating the reduced pressure within the reservoir. A filter screen is mounted relative to the fluid passage and is dimensioned to minimize passage of tissue particles of predetermined dimension through the fluid passage of the portal member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 12, 2009
    Date of Patent: April 10, 2012
    Assignee: Tyco Healthcare Group LP
    Inventor: Bethany A. Vitaris