Abstract: The invention provides for a urinary monitoring device to monitor for the presence or absence of markers indicative of a urinary tract infection (UTI). The invention also provides for methods of using such a device.

Abstract: A reduced-pressure medical treatment system for treating a tissue site on a patient includes a medical drape that has an holographically-formed polymer dispersed liquid crystal (H-PDLC) device that changes visual appearance when experiencing strain. The change in visual appearance of the H-PDLC device allows identification of the existence of strain and may allow a quantitative assessment of the range of stress involved. In other aspects, a dressing conduit connector, canister, and reduced-pressure interface use a holographically-formed polymer dispersed liquid crystal (H-PDLC) device to help determine the existence and perhaps the amount of stress experienced. Other systems, methods, and devices are presented.

Abstract: A disposable real-time closed catheter urine output monitoring system. The monitoring system of the invention can measure urine outputs at both high and low urine flow in real time, using a pressure chamber in the form of a hollow body having an input port for coupling to a tube connected to a catheter for collection of urine from a patient, an exit port coupled to a collection container and a vent port, such that air may flow through the vent, but urine is blocked by the vent. A sensor measures flow from the exit port of the pressure chamber into the collection container, and a pressure sensor may be included to measure pressure in the pressure chamber. The invention also provides a method of using the apparatus in a real-time monitoring system.

Abstract: Apparatus for the provision of topical negative pressure therapy to a user is described, the apparatus comprising a device and a waste canister connected thereto, the waste 5 canister being operably connected for receiving wound exudate to a wound dressing by an aspiration conduit which is releasably connected to the dressing, wherein the waste canister has a blank connector portion thereon for sealably receiving a disconnected dressing end of the aspiration conduit.

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.

Abstract: A quantitative and qualitative analysis apparatus of a body fluid serves as a replacement of a Foley catheter and a urine bag connected The analysis apparatus is capable of automatically measuring the volume of a body fluid (urine volume) and specific constituents in a body fluid (urine and blood) in a real time mode and is capable of outputting the measurement results with ease, thereby promoting the efficiency of human resource management so that medical staff may be able to make a quick diagnosis on the current state of the patient based on the provided data and thus, take all necessary measured to improve the patient's condition at proper time.

Abstract: A device for use with a negative pressure bandage for supply negative pressure. The device includes a pump module and a controller module. The pump module contains a power source and a pump. The pump module is removably contained in the controller module. The pump module and controller module can be connected with a connector that provides both a physical and pneumatic connection. The controller module may include one of more visual indicators for allowing the status of the device to be observed at a distance.

Abstract: Systems and methods for delivery of fluid to a wound therapy dressing. In exemplary embodiments, a pressure sensor measures the pressure at the wound therapy dressing and restricts fluid flow to the wound therapy dressing when a predetermined pressure is achieved.

Abstract: A portable device (2) to generate a vacuum for the medical treatment of wounds on the bodies of humans or animals has a vacuum-producing suction pump (90) in a first housing part (4) of the device and a vessel (10) for receiving body liquids. Vacuum is applied for vacuum communication between the suction pump (90), the vessel (10) and a suction tube (82) leading to the body. A pressure sensor (94) measures the pressure in a tube section (88) and a programmable electronic control unit (100) controls the suction pump (90) in dependence on pressure values measured by the pressure sensor (94). The electronic control unit (100) deactivates the suction pump (90) if a rate of change in pressure (?p/?t) detected by the pressure sensor (94) exceeds a defined threshold value toward decreasing vacuum.

Abstract: An apparatus for fluid collection is disclosed, which comprises: a frame, composed of a plurality of unit cells, each being made of an absorbent polymer composite; and a bag, for receiving the frame while being connected to a conduit provided for enabling a fluid to flow in and out the bag therethrough.

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.

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.

Abstract: The present invention generally relates to receiving bodily fluid through a device opening. In one aspect, the device includes a flow activator arranged to cause fluid to be released from a subject. A deployment actuator may actuate the flow activator in a deployment direction, which may in turn cause fluid release from a subject. The flow activator may also be moved in a retraction direction by a retraction actuator. In one aspect, the device may include a vacuum source that may help facilitate fluid flow into the opening of the device and/or may help facilitate fluid flow from the opening to a storage chamber. In one aspect, a device actuator may enable fluid communication between the opening and the vacuum source and the flow activator may be actuated after the enablement of fluid communication.

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.

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.

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

Abstract: A device for clearing obstructions from a medical tube, such as a chest tube, is disclosed in various embodiments. In embodiments, the device features a guide wire that extends from a drainage canister and can be advanced and withdrawn through a medical tube, such as a chest tube, via an actuator. The guide wire is actuated so as to maintain the sterile field within the chest tube and the associated suction pathway. Methods of clearing a medical tube of obstructions using such a device are also disclosed.

Abstract: A surgical tissue therapy device includes a sealant layer and a collection chamber. The sealant layer functions so as to create a sealed enclosure or space between it and the surface of a patient by forming, preferably, an airtight seal around a surgical area of skin trauma. The closed incision tissue therapy device also comprises a collection chamber, which may comprise an elongate tubular chamber with a plurality of longitudinally spaced openings. The collection chamber may be configured to be in fluid communication with the sealant layer and the area of skin trauma and functions as to distribute the negative pressure applied to a surgically closed area of skin trauma. Preferably, the pressure under the sealant layer is reduced by expanding the volume of the enclosure space and thereby decreasing the density of air molecules under the sealant layer.

Abstract: A wound treatment apparatus is provided for treating tissue damage, which comprises a fluid impermeable wound cover sealed over a site for purposes of applying a reduced pressure to the site. The apparatus also can include a cover with protrusions on its surface for purposes of monitoring pressure at the site. One or more sensors can be positioned under the cover to provide feedback to a suction pump controller. The apparatus can have a miniature and portable vacuum source connected to the wound cover.

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.

Abstract: An apparatus for insertion of a medical device in the skin of a subject is provided, as well as methods of inserting medical devices.

Abstract: An apparatus and method are provided for treating wound with negative pressure. The apparatus includes a wound cover, a first pump for providing said negative pressure at a chosen pressure level to the wound, a canister, a first conduit between the wound cover and the canister, first means for measuring the pressure within the canister, and a second conduit which connects the canister with the first pump. A circulating pump is arranged to intermittently transport a gas volume from the canister to the wound region via a third conduit and back to the canister via the first conduit in order to press out possible exudates from the first conduit to the canister. A second means analyzes the pressure curve over time of said pressure in the canister and a third means indicates by alarm when said pressure curve differs from a normal cyclical form.

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.

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.

Abstract: An occluder to prevent fluid flow through a pump with a vacuum at the output is provided. Embodiments may be used in combination with negative pressure wound therapy systems, in which the occluder is coupled to a fluid source, a wound insert, and a negative pressure source, and the occluder is configured to permit fluid delivery to the wound insert under positive pressure.

Abstract: A wound treatment apparatus is provided for treating tissue damage, which comprises a fluid impermeable wound cover sealed over a site for purposes of applying a reduced pressure to the site. The apparatus also can include a cover with protrusions on its surface for purposes of monitoring pressure at the site. One or more sensors can be positioned under the cover to provide feedback to a suction pump controller. The apparatus can have a miniature and portable vacuum source connected to the wound cover.

Abstract: An ostomy device that comprises an adhesive wafer for attaching to the skin around the stoma. The wafer comprises an adhesive layer having a proximal adhesive side and a distal side, where the distal side is covered with a backing layer. The wafer comprises a central portion and a peripheral portion, and it comprises a proximal section located on the proximal side of the central portion and a distal section visually arranged on the distal side of peripheral portion, wherein the distal section changes colour when the proximal section is exposed to fluid.

Abstract: An ostomy device that comprises an adhesive wafer for attaching to the skin around the stoma. The wafer comprises an adhesive layer having a proximal adhesive surface and a distal surface. The distal surface is covered with a backing layer. The wafer comprises a central portion and a peripheral portion, and it comprises at least a first and a detection zone, wherein the detection zone is configured to provide a tactile sensation on the distal surface of the wafer when exposed to moisture.

Abstract: An artificial Ostomy containment device comprising an implantable intra-abdominal sleeve adapted to interfere with movement of a closure assembly positioned within the sleeve; and a closure assembly comprising a hollow stomal insert sized and shaped to conduct waste content from an intestinal portion in an abdominal cavity through said insert and out of a stoma, and a fixation element coupled to said stomal insert sized and positioned to interfere with said intra-abdominal sleeve.

Abstract: Systems and methods are presented for providing reduced pressure to and monitoring pressure at a plurality of tissue sites using a plurality of pressure management devices. The pressure management devices are associated with a plurality of sensing conduits that fluidly couple the pressure management devices and the plurality of tissue sites. Other systems, methods, and devices are disclosed.

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.

Abstract: A single-use indicator is provided and is particularly well suited for use with a surgical catheter device. The indicator includes an absorbent filament or wick which is placed in a transparent or translucent indicator lumen of a multi-lumen catheter. The lumen is provided with at least one side port. When the catheter is inserted into a blood vessel, blood enters the indicator lumen through the side port and is absorbed by the filament, thus turning the filament red or purple in color. When the instrument is removed from the blood vessel, the stained filament is clearly visible as an indicator that the instrument has been used. Because the filament is trapped inside a lumen of a relatively long catheter, it is difficult or impossible to remove it during a remanufacturing process.

Abstract: The present invention relates to an apparatus for the removal and containment of human waste products from the effected area of incontinent patients. The apparatus and process encapsulates the areas of the body where urine and fecal matter are excreted. In particular, the present invention is directed to an apparatus for the containment and removal of human waste products, comprising: a receptacle; a vacuum connection to apply force for attaching the receptacle to the patient; and a vacuum dispersion membrane to provide mechanical support to the skin so as to minimize tensile force applied to the skin.

Abstract: A vascular access device for communicating with the vascular system of a patient may include a status indicator. The status indicator may detect and signal whether and to what extent at least a portion of the vascular access device has been cleaned.

Abstract: The automatic pubic area cleansing system includes a ventilated diaper and a removable insert pad. At least one sensor is disposed in the system. The sensors are connected to a control unit that activates a ventilating and evacuating system when moisture is detected in the diaper. A massage head is disposed in a rear portion of the pad and can provide stimulation to the coccyx area of the patient to prevent the formation of a decubitus ulcer in the region.

Abstract: An improved method for measuring and automatically disposing of infectious waste generated during and after surgical and clinical procedures is provided. The infectious waste removal device includes a suction source, a method for pressure verification, separation chamber for isolating fluids, containment reservoir, measurement chamber for determining fluid received, an information source for such fluid volumes, a quantitative method for calculating fluid dynamics, a post use cleaning method, and other attributes for use by the surgical team or healthcare staff in order to minimize health care worker handling of said infectious waste and to limit their possible exposure.

Abstract: This patent application teaches methods and apparatus of an efficient disposal chain system which includes a process of receiving fluid enclosing containers, transforming said containers into collection containers by integrating said containers into vacuum canister collection systems. Such a collection system includes a remote vacuum source configured to draw a vacuum force away from said container and towards said container. Such a vacuum source is configured to draw room air. Such a force is configured to draw waste materials along a path towards said collection container. A transformation of said containers includes deriving said containers from supply chains and transforming said containers into said collection systems at least in part by supporting said containers inside said canisters from below utilizing various configurations of measurement stands, said stands configured to support and accommodate various sizes, types and shapes of said containers.

Abstract: A bodily fluid drainage assembly can include a fluid bag and one or more covers. The assembly can include one or more volume indicators from which an approximate volume of a bodily fluid that is retained within the bag can be ascertained. In some arrangements, a cover includes a volume indicator that defines an opening through which a transparent or semitransparent portion of the bag can be viewed.

Abstract: A system and method for performing tissue therapy may include applying a reduced pressure to a tissue site of a patient. A fluid parameter associated with applying a reduced pressure to the tissue site may be sensed. An audible fluid leak location sound may be generated in response to sensing the fluid parameter. The audible fluid leak location sound may be altered in response to sensing that the fluid parameter changes. By altering the audible fluid leak location sound in response to sensing a change of the fluid parameter, a clinician may detect location of a fluid leak at the drape by applying force to the drape. The force applied to the drape may be a clinician pressing a finger onto an edge of the drape.

Abstract: A system is provided for the treatment of wounds. The system comprises a wound dressing and a suction regulator that includes a vacuum regulator for supplying a negative pressure to the wound site and a control circuit for controlling the vacuum regulator to selectively supply the negative pressure. The system may further comprise (1) a pressure verification mechanism for providing visual verification that the negative pressure applied to the wound site has reached a predetermined pressure level; (2) a venting mechanism for allowing oxygen to vent to the wound site when the negative pressure is not supplied to the wound site; (3) a flow sensor for sensing a flow rate from the wound site where the control circuit generates an alarm signal if the flow rate sensed by the flow sensor exceeds a threshold; and/or (4) a wound dressing pad comprising a support material at least partially covered with silicone.

Abstract: A surgical sponge detection system includes a plurality of surgical sponges (2) having radio frequency identification tags (1) securely attached thereto and a non-optical hand-held reader (40) for detecting the sponges by detecting the tags (1). Also disclosed is a device (30) for automatically counting, weighing, and calculating blood loss contained within, soiled surgical sponges (2) which includes a cabinet with an opening (3) at the top through which sponges (2) are deposited, a reader (6) which scans each sponge (2) entered and determines sponge type from a tag (1) affixed to each sponge (2), and a disposable bag (8) into which the sponges (2) are deposited.

Abstract: Drainage belongs to medical equipment, particularly to medical tools and is specified for drainage of cavities. Drainage comprises a first tube, an additional tube, which is fixed upon it, a unit of the clot's splitter and the splitter's fixing element. The additional tube has a smaller diameter with an opening, inside which the conductor is mounted, a unit of clots splitter is installed on the working end of the drainage, it comprises a cylinder, a tube with an opening, placed on it, which is the continuation of the additional tube of the drainage and a spring with a cutter inside the cylinder. A cutter is located diametrically inside the working head, while in the end of the wall of the first tube and the splitter's unit comprises a channel, inside which splitter's fixing element was led, its working end is inside the unit's cylinder and fixes the splitter.

Abstract: A reduced pressure treatment system includes a porous pad positioned at a tissue site and a canister having a collection chamber, an inlet, and an outlet. The inlet is fluidly connected to the porous pad. A reduced pressure source is fluidly connected to the outlet of the canister to such that fluid from the tissue site may be drawn into the collection chamber. A hydrophobic filter is positioned adjacent the outlet to prevent liquid from exiting the collection chamber through the outlet. A baffle is positioned within the canister to create a tortuous path between the inlet and the outlet to prevent premature blocking of the hydrophobic filter.

Abstract: A bodily fluid drainage assembly having one or more covers and a fluid bag. The fluid bag has a first and a second volume indicator. The first volume indicator is employed by comparing a top level of a fluid with graduations that make up the first volume indicator. The second volume indicator and one of the covers can be used to appreciate an approximate volume of the fluid without directly observing the fluid. Any covers present on the assembly can be removed.

Abstract: The invention relates to a system for withdrawing body fluid from a body part via a withdrawal site located on the surface of the body part, with at least one sensor for detecting at least one variable dependent on the location or state of the withdrawal site, and with an evaluation unit for evaluating the at least one variable detected by the at least one sensor and for triggering a reaction, dependent on the value of the detected variable, in the system for withdrawing body fluid, said reaction serving to prepare the system for puncturing the surface of the body part, and with at least one puncturing device for creating an opening in the body at the withdrawal site. The invention further relates to an integrated analysis system, to a method for configuring a system for withdrawal of body fluid, and to a method for selecting a menu item from a menu for controlling a system for withdrawing body fluid from a body part.

Abstract: The invention relates to a pH sensor for use in a catheter drainage system. The invention also relates to a catheter, drainage bag or connection unit comprising the pH sensor of the present invention, methods of using the pH sensor and methods of making the pH sensor.

Abstract: NuChain supply chain and disposal chain apparatus are created by NuPurposing containers, conditioning and transforming such containers from fluent material delivery containers into waste collection containers. Novel structural features of the waste collection systems allows bottle docking for the ingress of collection material into fluent material distribution containers as well as operation as a canister waste ingress collection system. The application of counter opposing forces on a canister and a lid operates in sealing and the unsealing and assembly and disassembly. A reduced pressure configured to be drawn away from said container inducing ingress of air into said container by a source of reduced pressure.

Abstract: A method and system for measuring a urinary flow rate minimizes impact noise caused by urine to measure the urinary flow rate using a plurality of load cells when prostatic hypertrophy is diagnosed. The method includes measuring an amount of urine collected into a container using a plurality of load cells, extracting and averaging urinary flow rate signals from the measured results, and removing the impact noise from the urinary flow rate signals, converting the urinary flow rate signals into digital signals through an A/D converting circuit, and outputting the digital signals using a personal computer or a microprocessor analyzer which is interfaced with the A/D converting circuit.

Abstract: A device for clearing obstructions from a medical tube, such as a chest tube, is disclosed in various embodiments. The device features a clearance member in the form of a loop. The loop desirably has a diameter that substantially corresponds to the inner diameter of the medical tube. Also desirably, the loop presents a substantially unobstructed pathway therethrough for the flow of material from a location in the medical tube distal to the loop to a location in the medical tube proximal to the loop regardless whether the clearance member is being translated or is at rest in the medical tube. Methods of utilizing such a device are also disclosed.

Abstract: There is set forth herein an apparatus for use in management of fluid disposal. The apparatus in one embodiment can include a vessel adapted to contain fluid. In one embodiment the apparatus can be supported by a bed in an active configuration and in a particular embodiment between a mattress and box spring of a bed. In one embodiment the apparatus can include an active configuration in which the apparatus supports a vessel in a position for use, and a second configuration in which the apparatus in which a height of the apparatus is reduced to allow for storage of at least part of the apparatus in a storage area having a reduced height dimension.