Abstract: An RF sealable composition and film is provided in which the composition and film includes a blend of an ethylene/alpha-olefin and an ethylene acrylate copolymer. The composition and resulting film has a dielectric loss factor of at least 0.02 and is capable of being radio frequency sealed. Films in accordance with the invention provide RF seals having peel strengths on the order of 500 g/in or greater. In a further aspect, a film is provided having at least one exterior layers that comprises a blend of an ethylene/alpha-olefin copolymer and an ethylene acrylate copolymer. Suitable ethylene acrylate copolymers for use in the invention include of ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA), ethylene butyl acrylate (EBA), and ethylene methyl acrylate (EMA).

Abstract: A fluid collection system includes a disposable collection container and a disposable collection container receiving housing, the housing having a cavity and a suction source. The fluid collection container may include a flexible liner and a shelf for diverting fluid from the suction and to assist with a collapse of the liner during evacuation of the fluid from the liner. The collection container receiving housing may include a piston assembly having a main piston body and a scraper ring. The collection container receiving housing may include a piston stop feature. The system may include a partially hydrophobic filter and a flat surface suction tool.

Abstract: A medical device that seals a wound and facilitates wound drainage with suction is provided. In one exemplary embodiment, the device comprises a suction portion, having both an inlet valve and an outlet valve, for suctioning fluids from the wound, and a sealing portion for sealing the wound by engaging the skin adjacent the wound, the suction portion and sealing portion being integral with one another. A method for draining a wound comprises the steps of under-packing the wound with a packing material; sealing the wound; and applying suction to the wound to promote wound drainage and to promote intimate contact between the wound and the packing material.

Abstract: In a urine receptacle of an automatic urine disposal device, a urine backflow prevention sheet, with no water permeability, having funnel-shaped pores, is placed between a top sheet and a urine absorbing sheet. A pair of rectangular electrodes, constituting a urine detection sensor, is glued onto an electrode support sheet and is placed between the top sheet and the urine backflow prevention sheet. A plurality of funnel-shaped pores is formed on the urine backflow prevention sheet.

Abstract: The invention provides a surgical vacuum device including a vacuum cup sized for attachment to and manipulation of a target tissue. The device further includes a vacuum hose for applying a vacuum to the interior of the cup, and structure for applying a tensioning force to the cup once it has been placed and a vacuum applied. The vacuum device may be utilized with minimal or no trauma to the target tissue or surrounding tissues.

Abstract: An ostomy collecting device for attachment to the body comprising a collecting pouch and an adhesive wafer, the wafer comprises a soft adhesive layer and a backing layer wherein the wafer is more stretchable in a first direction than in a second direction. The anisotropic nature of the wafer facilitates a flexible wafer during use and secures easy removal.

Abstract: The present invention is directed towards a method and apparatus for packaging or containing, handling and managing of a variety of materials or other contents from a variety of sources which encounter use under various dynamic applications, conditions and for a plurality of purposes. The invention more specifically is directed towards one or more containers or packages, suitably fitted or used for the handling or managing of materials or other contents along one or more cycles or chains of use.

Abstract: Multi-functional urine collection devices, embodiments of which can include a self-expanding container having a receptacle for receiving urine from the tubing, a pump for moving urine through the tubing and into a receptacle, extendable tubing that may be shortened and/or lengthened, and/or one or more meters for monitoring, measuring, transmitting or storing a characteristic from the urine.

Abstract: A visceral pleura ring connector that may be utilized to anchor and seal the visceral pleura to a conduit or other device entering the lung from a non-native airway. The visceral pleura ring connector may be positioned around the visceral pleura and an insertion device and seal them together without having to make any holes in the pleura. The visceral pleura ring connector may be utilized with a pulmonary pleural stabilizer to hold the visceral pleura of the lung during surgical procedures involving accessing the lung or lungs of a patient directly through the lung and not the native airways.

Abstract: A reliable, private and sanitary device is provided for capturing human waste in the wilderness. A small double ended bag contains a roll of toilet paper in one end and an extendable padded strap in the other. A user pulls the padded strap from the bag, loops it around a tree and around the user's body, and attaches its end to the other end of the strap after extending that end of the strap from the other end of the bag. Then the user can lean back against the padded strap, and deposit bodily waste in a collection bag. The device is light, portable, reusable, and suitable for use by hikers, rafters, and other outdoor enthusiasts in areas where human waste is carried out rather than left behind.

Abstract: A disposable waste containment article is disclosed along with a combination of using two articles simultaneously. The article includes a bodyside layer having a first surface and an outer perimeter, and a garment facing layer having an outer perimeter approximately coincident with the outer perimeter of the bodyside layer. An absorbent layer is positioned between the bodyside layer and the garment facing layer. A seal secures the bodyside layer to the garment facing layer. The seal is located inward of the outer perimeters. An ingress is formed in the bodyside layer and is aligned with one of the waste orifices present in a human body such that waste from the human body can pass through the ingress and be collected in the waste containment article. The waste containment article also includes a body adhesive for securing the first surface to the wearer's body.

Abstract: A condom applicator (10) is disclosed which comprises a base (12) with a split line (18) across it and two flaps (14) which are connected by flimsy hinges to the base (12). Tubs (16) protrude from the flap (14). The base (12) includes two generally parallel walls (24, 28) and a base (26) which bound a trough (22). The trough receives the hem ring of a condom. There is an opening in the base which is encircled by the inner wall (24). When the flaps (14) are folded over, areas (44) of the flaps (14) cover the trough leaving a gap (G) between the wall (24) and the area (44). The tubs (16) span across said opening. The teat of the condom lies across the opening.

Abstract: A drain cover portion (100a, 100b) for a linear drainage system which comprises at least two attachment means. The attachment means are provided by at least one a connector attachment means (500) and at least one drain attachment means (700). The connector attachment means (500) is arranged to attach one or more anchor connectors (1002) for connecting an anchor (114) to the drain cover portion (100a, 100b) and/or one or more cover portion connector for connecting said drain cover portion (100a, 100b) to another drain cover portion (100a, 100b). The drain attachment means (700) is arranged to attach a drain portion (200) to the drain cover portion (100a, 100b). Each attachment means is arranged so as to allow the tool-less attachment of a connector/drain section.

Abstract: The present invention provides an improved kit for the collection of umbilical cord blood and placental blood, and collection of the placenta from which such blood is obtained. The kit improves upon existing kits in that it provides for improved user convenience, provides for the collection of the placenta itself, and better maintains the internal temperature of the container in which the collected blood and placenta are shipped to a blood bank or registry. The invention further provides a method of collecting umbilical cord and placental blood, and the placenta from which such blood is obtained, comprising using the kit described herein.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a method and device for collecting, retaining, draining, and measuring fluid loss in a myriad of medical procedures. Particularly, this invention relates to a device for collecting and measuring runoff fluid comprising a flexible liner and a frame adapted to removably receive said liner so as to conform the liner to a three-sided container.

Abstract: A compact portable container apparatus holds urine or other fluids safely and hygienically. Specifically, a container is provided that traps urine or other fluids when deposited therein. The container has one or more seals that allows the container to be sealed after use so that leakage of the container after use is minimized or eliminated. Moreover, the container has a generally horizontally disposed downwardly sloping passageway for the passage of urine or other fluids and an angled or arcuately-shaped wall for directing a flow or spray of urine or other fluids into a reservoir for holding the same. Moreover, the container has a window for viewing the contents of the container to determine the quantity of fluids contained therein. Alternatively, the container includes an absorbent material for absorbing the urine or other fluids. The container may be made from a soft, resilient thermoplastic material.

Abstract: Tissue imaging and extraction systems are described herein. Such a system may include a deployment catheter and an attached imaging hood deployable into an expanded configuration. In use, the imaging hood is placed against or adjacent to a region of tissue to be imaged in a body lumen that is normally filled with an opaque bodily fluid such as blood. A translucent or transparent fluid, such as saline, can be pumped into the imaging hood until the fluid displaces any blood, thereby leaving a clear region of tissue to be imaged via an imaging element in the deployment catheter. Additionally, the system can include features or instruments for extracting tissue such as clearing blood clots, emboli, and other debris which may be present in a body lumen. Other variations may also be used for facilitating trans-septal access across tissue regions as well as for balancing body fluids during a procedure.

Abstract: The present invention relates to an improved apparatus and method for aspirating liquids from surfaces particularly during medical procedures. Apparatus for removing liquid from a surface in the region of a medical procedure such as an operating room floor responsive to a drawn vacuum of preselected magnitude includes a plenum with an interior volume defined by an elongated box element with a plurality of supports member integral thereto or by an elongated tube, the plenum being perforated so as the exterior of the plenum is in direct liquid communication with the interior of the plenum, an absorptive wicking pad secured to the plenum so as to cover the perforations, an a vacuum conduit tube in direct vacuum communication with a vacuum collection system.

Abstract: A urine collection assembly includes a urine collection device and a urine collection chamber in communication with the urine collection device. The urine collection chamber includes a collection reservoir, an entrance conduit having an inlet to receive urine from the urine collection device and an outlet terminating in the reservoir, an anti-reflux valve, and an exit conduit. The collection reservoir is configured to be wearable in close proximity to a user's body below the waist and above the knees of the user. The collection reservoir holds urine excreted from a user. The exit conduit enables drainage of the collection reservoir. The exit conduit also enables attachment of the collection reservoir to an additional conventional urine collection chamber. The anti-reflex valve is configured to prevent urine from backing up out of the urine collection chamber and into the urine collection device.

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.

Abstract: A liquid measurement device having a containment structure, a sensor, and an interface device, having particular applicability to the collection and administration of electrically conductive fluids. The device is configured to house and monitor the height of a fluid. The containment structure has at least one variable cross-section portion. The sensor has two cooperating variable resistance sections that account for the variable cross-section of the containment structure. The electrical resistance of the sensor changes as the fluid height changes and shorts out a portion of the sensor. The sensor may include an electrically conductive ink that is printed on the interior of the containment structure. The sensor receives an electrical measurement signal and modifies the signal in a predetermined manner to reflect the amount of fluid within the containment structure. The device is useful in measuring the amount of fluid in urine collection bags and intravenous bags.

Abstract: A system for collecting, treating and disposing of waste fluid includes a station that features transfer, flushing and mixing pumps as well as a bowl that holds the waste fluid. The waste fluid is collected in a container mounted on a cart. The cart container connects to the station so that the waste fluid is transferred from the cart to the station bowl by the transfer pump. The flushing pump has an inlet that communicates with a source of water and a disinfectant dispenser. The flushing pump is used to flush both the cart container and the station bowl, the latter of which communicates with a drain system. The flushing pump also delivers disinfectant to the waste fluid in the station bowl. The inlet and outlet of the mixing pump communicate with the bowl so that it mixes the bowl contents. Buffer is provided to the circulating waste fluid until the pH level drops to a predetermined level.

Abstract: A system for collecting and disposing of liquid medical waste includes a fluid collection cart and a draining and cleaning station. The fluid collection cart includes a pair of containers, each of which includes a draining port and a cap. Each cap includes an outer portion having a flushing port and a bore formed therein and an inner portion having vacuum and patient ports formed therein. The inner cap portion is disposable and removably positioned within the bore of the outer cap portion. Liquid level detectors also communicate with each container. The cart also includes a regulator so a low vacuum level may be pulled on one of the containers while a full vacuum level is pulled on the other container. Fluids are collected in the containers via suction tubes connected to the patient ports. The flushing and drain ports of the containers are connected to corresponding flushing and drain connectors on the station when the containers are full so that they may be drained and flushed.

Abstract: A method for conducting a fecal examination includes providing a collection spoon and a collection container comprising a transparent body having a cap which can be removed to permit fecal matter to be received in the collection container with the spoon to be mixed with a flotation material to aid in separating the fecal matter and ova or eggs of parasites that may be contained in the fecal matter and then dispensed through a filter mounted in the cap of the collection container to a test tube and a cover slip on the test tube for examination of the filtered material for the presence of the ova of parasites.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a medical device having a coating comprising at least one polyurethaneurea, wherein the coating comprises at least one polyurethane urea terminated with a copolymer unit of polyethyloxide and polypropyloxide.

Abstract: The invention pertains to a device (1) for removal of biological material from an organism. The device (1) comprises: a removal means (2) for removing biological material from an organism with a redirection means (3) for selecting luminal connection of a removal means (2) with a) a penetration means (6) for penetrating into the organism, b) a reception means (4) for receiving the material from the organism, and c) a reservoir means (12) for storage of a substance. The direction means (3) is configured such that the removals means (2) can form a luminal connection with the reservoir means (12) and with the reception means (4), or with the penetration means (6).

Abstract: A layered adhesive construction including a layer of a moldable paste wrapped in one or more wrapping layers, and a first adhesive layer attached to the wrapping layer on one outer surface of the layer of wrapped moldable paste where the layered adhesive construction has a symmetrical shape around a central axis of symmetry lying in the plane of the layers of the adhesive construction. The adhesive construction has a hole going therethrough which is placed with its center on the axis of symmetry so that it divides the central axis of symmetry in two parts. An area around at least one of the two parts on the central axis of symmetry is without the moldable paste layer and has one or more backing layers and a layer of adhesive on the same side of the adhesive construction as the first adhesive layer.

Abstract: A capsule-type medical device collector has a cylindrical net member (61a) whose mesh size is formed so as to be able to collect a capsule endoscope (3), slits 61d and (61d), an INSULOCK binder (61e), and handle members 61f and (61f). By binding the other end of the cylindrical net member (61a) with the INSULOCK binder (61e) to form the cylindrical net member (61a) in a bag shape and sandwiching ear members (61a1) and (61a1) of the cylindrical net member (61a) between a toilet stool (7) and a toilet seat (71), the cylindrical net member (61a) is fixed on the toilet stool (7). After excretion, the cylindrical net member (61a) is taken out and only a capsule endoscope (3) is collected. In such a manner, a capsule-type medical device discharged from a subject to the outside is easily collected.

Abstract: This application teaches a disposal chain and a supply chain system for sealing and unsealing a vacuum draw path embodying a thrust handle capable of imparting assembly and disassembly thrust forces said system conferring the potential of reducing the amount solid waste mass contributed to the waste stream.

Abstract: A urine bag, which is folded flat so that it is compact and ready for use, has a water impermeable bag portion and a flexible mouse portion secured at an upper opening of the bag portion. The flexible mouse portion surrounds at least a portion of the upper opening of the mouse portion and has shape preserving capability. The mouse portion includes left and right wings which can be displaced around a first central folding line to open or close the upper opening, and left and right tongues. The tongues can be displaced together with the wings around a second central folding line which is an extension of the first central folding line. The mouse portion also has a pair of symmetrical folding lines extending diagonally from the intersection of the contour of tongues and the upper edges of the wings to the first central folding line.

Abstract: A tissue retrieval bag is provided, comprising a region of the bag defining an opening; a pleated fold intersecting said opening at a distal region of the opening; and a hem circumferentially formed around said opening, the hem forming insertion points adapted to receive a draw string, the insertion points in direct opposition to the pleated fold.

Abstract: A collecting bag for an ostomy appliance, said collecting bag having a front wall and a rear wall, the rear wall having an opening through which waste material may enter the collecting bag, and wherein a manipulation pocket is defined in the front and/or the rear wall of the collecting bag, said manipulation pocket extending into the collecting bag and comprising transfer means adapted to sealed transfer of mechanical movement from the surroundings to the interior of the collecting bag. The sealed transfer of movement can be used to open a passage inside the collecting bag such that flatus gasses may pass through a deodorizing filter, which prior to opening of the passage is protected such that it is not contaminated.

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 body liquid bag holder comprising a tubular wall defining a hollow space with an open upper end and a lower end longitudinally opposite the upper end; a liquid body bag attachment adjacent to the upper end of the tubular wall; and at least one apertured handle extending through the tubular wall and adapted and configured to receive at least one finger of a hand of a user for holding the body liquid bag holder.

Abstract: An apparatus for penetrating the bone marrow of a bone is provided. The apparatus includes a handle having a drive shaft, a connector having a first end operable to connect to a drive shaft and a second end operable to connect to a penetrator hub and a penetrator hub having a penetrator that accesses the bone marrow.

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 wound exudate is removed from a wound bed and selectively cleansed and returned to the wound. The cleansing means removes materials deleterious to wound healing, and the cleansed fluid, still containing materials that are beneficial in promoting wound healing, is returned to the wound bed. The associated wound dressing and cleansing means are conformable to the wound, and may have irrigant fluid circulated from a reservoir by a device for moving fluid through a flow path which passes through the dressing and a means for fluid cleansing and back to the dressing.

Abstract: Apparatus and a method for the provision of topical negative pressure therapy to a wound site are described, the apparatus comprising: vacuum generating means for generating a negative pressure at said wound site said vacuum generating means being operably connected to a dressing at said wound site by aspiration conduit means; pressure sensing conduit means in fluid communication with said aspiration conduit means at a junction adjacent said dressing; first pressure sensing means between said junction and said vacuum generating means; second pressure sensing means operably associated with said pressure sensing conduit means; diagnostic means in communication with said first and second pressure sensing means; and control means in communication with said diagnostic means for controlling pressure in said aspiration and said pressure sensing conduit means.

Abstract: An absorbent article 10 has front 12, crotch 14 and rear 16 portions. The article has an absorbent core 18 of unitary construction and of uniform density, which is defined by a pair of opposing longitudinal edges 20;22 and a pair of opposing transverse edges 24;26. The absorbent core 18 has at least a first 28 and a second 30 region, the average thickness of the absorbent core 18 in these first and second regions 28, 30 being lower than the average thickness of the absorbent core 18 surrounding the first and second regions 28;30, the first and second lower thickness regions 28;30 being arranged symmetrically about the longitudinal center line A of the article such that each of the first and second lower thickness regions 28;30 extends to the respective longitudinal edge 20;22 of the absorbent core. The distance ax between the first and second lower thickness regions 28;30 in the transverse direction varying along the longitudinal direction of the article.

Abstract: A system for draining the chest cavity of a patient subjected to a traumatic chest injury and/or to surgery within the chest. The system includes a small, portable suction device and a chest tube with an improved terminal structure. A number of embodiments of the suction device are disclosed; the first (with two variations) a small, completely disposable, bottle-shaped assembly comprising a motor/pump section, a power section, and a desiccant filled chamber, the second (also with two variations) a small box shaped assembly with a disposable desiccant pouch and a power supply that mounts to a battery charger positioned on an IV pole. A number of chest tube terminus structures are disclosed, including multi-lumen structures having high-airflow and low-airflow lumens as well as “dead” and “live” lumens.

Abstract: It comprises a variable volume chamber (2) having a first opening (3) connectable to a vacuum source (40) and a second opening (4) connectable to a suction conduit (52; 36), such that, in use, the chamber (2) may be put in fluid communication with the vacuum source (40) and vacuum may be generated in the chamber to cause suction through the suction conduit (52; 36); the valve comprises a bellows (1; 1a) with at least one pleat, arranged to define the chamber (2) and operable to move, in use, between an expanded condition in which the first opening (3) of the chamber (2) remains open, and a contracted condition in which it causes the closure of the first opening (3). It constitutes a very simple and trouble-free device for draining a wound at a relatively low vacuum level using a high vacuum suction bottle.

Abstract: An improved surgical dilator extractor is introduced into the abdominal cavity through a trocar cannula and expanded, forming a tissue receiving space, at the distal end. The tissue receiving space is enlarged by passing a grasper through a lumen of the dilator extractor to interact with a guide surface on the interior of dilator extractor to expand a dilator portion having a single leaf beyond the natural resiliency of the leaf. The tissue being extracted is then manipulated into the space with the grasper. The tissue is then removed from the cavity by the surgeon applying a force onto the dilator extractor that insures the elongation of the tissue and temporarily dilates the entry wound to the extent necessary for the tissue to be removed. Alternative embodiments of the surgical dilator extractor and related instrument tool sets and methods for the use thereof also are disclosed.

Abstract: In a tissue removal device for receiving and removing body tissue from an interior portion of a body in a minimally invasive surgical procedure, the tissue removal device including a tubular body having a distal end, a proximal end and defining a lumen therethrough, a bag support structure configured and dimensioned to be receivable within the lumen of the tubular body, wherein the bag support structure has a first configuration for positioning within the lumen of the tubular body and a second configuration for opening a bag operatively coupled thereto, and a bag operatively coupled to the bag support structure, the bag including a first end portion defining an open end.

Abstract: A disposable liner/lid system useable with a rigid canister and having an adhesive seal to provide improved sealing characteristics and effectively reduce the likelihood of spillage and leakage. The liner includes a flange and the lid includes adhesive that is secured to the interior of the lid and the flange of the liner when installed to provide a seal.

Abstract: Medical component systems are described in which individual hand-held components are enhanced by adjacent restraint and by combinations of function, including: suction devices with a port for regulating suction with single-finger-operable valve for repeatable incremental user control of suction-vacuum variation by aperture shapes like triangles and slots and tactile feedback means like plane changes for amplifying tactile feedback to a user to enhance distinguishing of control increments; clips and tubing restraints for attachment between devices; endotracheal tubes with feedback features so a user knows where the distal end is; wound kits and splash shields for use in combination with various irrigation sources; combination cough shields with medical components; endotracheal tube adapters with less dead space and improved flanges and monitoring ports; and improved long syringes and medical lights.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to an apparatus and method for treating obesity. A tube is positioned that passes through a patient's abdominal wall into the upper digestive system of the patient. The patient is allowed to carry out his/her everyday affairs including ingesting food. After the patient has ingested food, the food is extracted by pumping it out of the upper digestive system through the tube. The present invention is less invasive than current surgical procedures for reducing weight and allows patients to live a normal and active lifestyle without experiencing adverse side effects.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a portable waste containment device that is rapidly deployable. The waste containment device allows containment of liquid or semi-liquid waste until permanently disposed. The present invention also provides a portable waste containment system wherein the waste containment device is enclosed within a package for storage and when pulled from the package the waste containment device is ready for use. Still further, the present invention provides a method of using the portable waste containment device of the present invention.

Abstract: Surgical fluid management systems and methods of operating surgical fluid management systems which may provide one or more functions associated with suction, irrigation, distention, deficit monitoring, infusion, fluid warming, and the like. Some example embodiments may include infra-red lamps arranged to heat fluid flowing through a disposable cartridge. Some example embodiments may provide a three-dimensional fluid path through the cartridge and/or multi-stage heating capabilities. Some example fluid management systems may be selectable between pressure control and flow control modes.

Abstract: A waste management system includes a waste transport device and a waste collection device. The waste transport device may include a first connector member configured for releasable connection to a second connector member on the waste collection device. The system may also include an insertion device to facilitate insertion of the waste transport device into the rectum of a patient.

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.