Material Collector With Condition Indicator Patents (Class 604/318)
  • Publication number: 20110251569
    Abstract: Apparatus and methods for alerting a user of topical negative pressure therapy apparatus to a non-flow condition of aspirant fluid in the apparatus are described, the apparatus comprising: a device having vacuum pump means and a waste canister connected to the device; the waste canister being operably connected to a wound dressing by aspiration conduit means for aspirating fluid from the wound; the aspiration conduit means, the waste canister and the device providing a fluid flow path therethrough and the vacuum pump means providing for fluid flow therethrough; the device having first pressure sensing means at an upstream position between an outlet port for aspirated fluid from said waste canister and said pump means; said waste canister having further provision selected from one of, selectable vent means for admission of ambient air to said waste canister and selectable second pressure sensing means for sensing pressure in said waste canister; and, a control system for receiving signals from said sensors and
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 27, 2008
    Publication date: October 13, 2011
    Applicant: SMITH & NEPHEW PLC
    Inventors: Jake Turner, Edward Hartwell, Stephen Jacob
  • Publication number: 20110251570
    Abstract: A covering device is disclosed for protecting components of an indwelling catheter assembly from contamination during surgery and other medical procedures so that the assembly can be left in place during recovery. The device includes one or more covering portions that extend around the collection bag and other components of the indwelling catheter assembly to form a barrier that protects the components from contamination during the procedure. The device further includes a removal mechanism that allows the covering portions to be separated from the catheter assembly following the procedure so that the catheter assembly can be left in place during recovery, as opposed to being replaced or cleaned. In one embodiment, the covering device is provided as an integral unit with an indwelling catheter assembly. In another embodiment, the connecting device is provided separately from the indwelling catheter assembly and installed around one or more portions of the assembly prior to the procedure.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 24, 2011
    Publication date: October 13, 2011
    Inventors: Patricia Horowitz, John Yacoub
  • Patent number: 7988680
    Abstract: A wound dressing member is provided for use in a vacuum bandage connected to a vacuum source. The wound dressing member is also provided for use with a wound having a wound surface. The wound dressing member includes a wound facing surface adapted to be in contact with and generally conform to the wound surface and a plurality of discrete holes formed in the wound facing surface. The member further includes a port configured to communicate with the vacuum source and with each hole formed in the wound facing surface. The wound dressing member further includes a stand-off having interconnected portions coupled to the wound facing surface and configured to provide a space between the wound facing surface and the wound surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 4, 2005
    Date of Patent: August 2, 2011
    Assignee: KCI Medical Resources
    Inventors: Jeffrey S. Lockwood, Robert Petrosenko, James R. Risk, Jr.
  • Publication number: 20110172614
    Abstract: A method of distinguishing leak detection and canister disengagement in a reduced pressure treatment system includes monitoring an actual power level and a source pressure of a reduced pressure pump. The actual power level is compared to a target power level, and the source pressure is compared to a first alarm pressure and a second alarm pressure. A leak alarm is indicated when the actual power level is greater than the target power level and the source pressure is greater than the first alarm pressure. A canister disengaged alarm is indicated when the actual power level is greater than the target power level and the source pressure is less than the second alarm pressure.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 23, 2011
    Publication date: July 14, 2011
    Inventor: Thomas P. Lawhorn
  • Publication number: 20110166537
    Abstract: A measuring device 1 for recording a peak level of a liquid flow includes an inlet 2 which opens into an inlet chamber 3 for receiving the liquid flow and a recording chamber 4 in open liquid communication with the inlet chamber 3 for allowing the liquid flow to accumulate up to a level therein. The recording chamber 4 is separated from the inlet 2 for direct liquid communication. At least one outflow opening 9 is provided to allow at least partial escape of the liquid flow, and indicator elements are provided to leave an indication of a level at least approximately at an indication level. A peak level in a liquid flow can thus be recorded very reliably with the measuring device 1.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 15, 2009
    Publication date: July 7, 2011
    Applicant: IQ+ INVESTMENTS N.V.
    Inventor: Thomas Gijsbert Paulen
  • Patent number: 7967810
    Abstract: Methods and systems are provided for a sub-atmospheric wound-care (SAWS) system for treating an open wound. The SAWS system includes a regulated vacuum source for developing a negative pressure, a flow rate meter configured to measure a flow rate of liquid removed from the wound, a primary pressure regulating sensor located proximate the wound for directly measuring the negative pressure at the wound, a backup pressure regulating sensor located vacuum tube, a porous dressing suitable to be sealed airtight which is positioned within a wound interface chamber, a collection canister configured to collect said liquid removed from the wound, and an adapter configured to use wall suction a primary regulated vacuum source.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 19, 2007
    Date of Patent: June 28, 2011
    Inventors: Brett A. Freedman, Robert L. Pauly
  • Patent number: 7956754
    Abstract: Absorbent articles incorporating a wetness sensor for indicating the presence of a body fluid are disclosed. In particular, the absorbent articles include at least two conductive elements that form an open circuit within the article. Each conductive element is connected to a conductive pad member that has sufficient surface area in order to facilitate connection to a signaling device. In accordance with the present disclosure, various attachment mechanisms are disclosed for attaching the pad members to a signaling device. In particular, although the absorbent articles are disposable, the signaling device is intended to be used with multiple absorbent articles. Therefore, a simple and efficient method of connecting the signaling device to the pad members provides various advantages. In one particular embodiment, for instance, the pad members comprise a conductive loop-type material that is attached to a corresponding conductive hook-type material on the signaling device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 1, 2008
    Date of Patent: June 7, 2011
    Assignee: Kimberly-Clark Worldwide, Inc.
    Inventor: Andrew Mark Long
  • Patent number: 7947024
    Abstract: A collapsible, hands-free emesis container is provided with improved portability, deployment and emesis reception characteristics. The container includes a receptacle portion for receiving emesis, a chute portion for directing emesis and a retainer to maintain desired positioning of the container about a support structure, which may be the neck of an impaired patient. The container may be provided in a package having size characteristics for easy storage and access by emergency medical service personnel. The container may be formed as a single unitary member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 27, 2007
    Date of Patent: May 24, 2011
    Assignee: Richard F. Ramage and Anthony F. Ramage
    Inventors: Richard F. Ramage, Anthony F. Ramage, Richard B. Davies
  • Patent number: 7947033
    Abstract: Wound fluid blood detection systems and methods are described that are operable in conjunction with reduced pressure wound treatment (RPWT) systems, as well as ancillary therapy and monitoring systems applied concurrently with RPWT systems. The blood detection monitor operates by optically characterizing the content of wound fluids to the extent of identifying percentage blood content. This identification relies upon the transmission of select wavelengths of light across a volume of wound fluid to a photo detector (connected to signal processing instrumentation) capable of quantifying the absorption characteristics of the fluid. The detection components may be implemented in conjunction with either a fluid flow conduit (i.e. the reduced pressure tubing directing fluid away from the wound dressing) or more directly in association with the materials that comprise the wound dressing positioned within the wound bed itself.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 6, 2006
    Date of Patent: May 24, 2011
    Assignee: KCI Licensing Inc.
    Inventors: Premnarayan Ganapathy, Royce Johnson, Tim Robinson, Christopher B. Locke
  • Patent number: 7939706
    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.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 10, 2007
    Date of Patent: May 10, 2011
    Assignees: Hitachi, Ltd., Uni-Charm Corporation
    Inventors: Kenichi Okabe, Junichi Kobayashi, Shigeru Machida, Ryousuke Miyagawa, Yoshikazu Ishitsuka, Ichiro Wada, Miou Suzuki
  • Patent number: 7931630
    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.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 5, 2005
    Date of Patent: April 26, 2011
    Assignee: C. R. Bard, Inc.
    Inventors: Vasu Nishtala, Warren F. Taylor, Robert M. Hine
  • Publication number: 20110077605
    Abstract: A pump system for applying negative pressure to a wound, including a flow monitor capable of detecting a deviation from a reference airflow rate provided by a controlled leak to determine whether the system is operating normally or abnormally, and a flow status annunciator to indicate a normal operating condition or whether an abnormal condition is a leak or an occluded line in the system. The pump system further includes a pressure controller for regulating operation of a pump to control pressure in the system at a range around a user-selected setpoint. The pump system may also include a waste collector and a level sensor for detecting when the collector is full.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 15, 2010
    Publication date: March 31, 2011
    Applicant: BOEHRINGER TECHNOLOGIES, L.P.
    Inventors: John Karpowicz, Christopher L. Radl, Kevin P. Klocek, John R. Boehringer, Derek Norton, Robert Kropp
  • Publication number: 20110060299
    Abstract: An automatic urine disposal apparatus adapted to detect the presence of feces in a wide range. A detector unit in an automatic urine disposal apparatus has a urination detector 102b and a defecation detector 102c. The urination detector 102b comprises a pair of first electrodes 218a, 218b and the defecation detector 102c comprises a pair of second electrodes 143a, 143b. The pair of first electrodes 218a, 218b and the pair of second electrodes 143a, 143b respectively have regions spaced one from another and extending in parallel one to another and these regions comprise portions 102d, 102e can be wetted with urine or moisture contained in feces.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 12, 2009
    Publication date: March 10, 2011
    Inventors: Ichiro Wada, Miou Suzuki, Ryosuke Miyagawa, Tetsuya Tanaka, Yoshikazu Ishitsuka
  • Patent number: 7892217
    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.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 3, 2006
    Date of Patent: February 22, 2011
    Assignee: Future Path Medical, LLC
    Inventor: Tony Boiarski
  • Publication number: 20110040267
    Abstract: The present invention aims to provide a urine suction device improved to achieve quick urine suction. A urine suction device 102 comprises a urine receiver unit 102a and a urine detector unit 102b. The urine detector unit 102b includes a pair of electrode assemblies 118a, 118b adapted to output a detection signal as soon as it is wetted with urine. The pair of electrode assemblies 118a, 118b is sandwiched between a liquid-pervious first sheet 128 and a liquid-pervious second sheet 130. The first and second sheets 128, 130 are put flat and joined together along joint zones 301, 302, 303 provided outside respective pairs of opposite side edges 269a, 269b of the electrode assemblies 118a, 118b. Along the respective joint zones, at least one of the first and second sheets 128, 130 has its thickness locally reduced and the first and second sheets 128, 130 are kept in close contact with each other along the joint zones 301, 302, 303 and in the vicinity of the joint zones.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 20, 2008
    Publication date: February 17, 2011
    Inventors: Ichiro Wada, Miou Suzuki
  • Patent number: 7879228
    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.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 6, 2006
    Date of Patent: February 1, 2011
    Assignee: Dornoch Medical Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: James L. Dunn, Lawrence E. Guerra
  • Publication number: 20110015591
    Abstract: The present disclosure is directed at methods and apparatus to evaluate and monitor healing progress of wound and/or to generate data to modify or identify a treatment protocol. Fluid exudate removed from the wound by a negative pressure therapy device may now be analyzed to identify the progress of wound healing, such as whether healing is progressing in a positive manner or experiencing one or more impediments. The fluid exudates may be specifically analyzed for one or more analytes indicative of one or more of the biochemical reactions that may occur during wound recovery. In addition, one may separately utilize optical sensors integrated into a dressing enclosure, optionally in those dressings employed in a negative pressure therapy device. Such optical sensors may then illuminate the wound and collect information regarding the wound via a light scattering type response.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 14, 2009
    Publication date: January 20, 2011
    Applicant: SOUTHWEST RESEARCH INSTITUTE
    Inventors: Heather S. HANSON, Nitin NITIN
  • Patent number: 7858839
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for alerting a colostomate or medical attendant to the presence of fecal matter. The device includes a hollow plug detachably securable to a flexible port positioned about the stoma. The port carries an alarm circuit which is triggered when fecal matter enters the plug lumen which will alert the colostomate to an impending episode. The signal may be vibratory, audible or visible and may be transmitted to a remote location. The device includes an inflatable air cuff which, when inflated, presents a physical barrier to the passage of fecal matter. Gas may pass through filters in the tube. The method involves positioning the device in the stoma, inflating the cuff and generating an alarm when matter is sensed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 17, 2009
    Date of Patent: December 28, 2010
    Assignee: Oakington Corp.
    Inventor: Nyle S. Elliott
  • Publication number: 20100280468
    Abstract: A wound dressing apparatus includes a wound dressing member dimensioned for positioning relative to a wound bed. The wound dressing member including an internal vacuum reservoir and has a port in communication with the vacuum reservoir for applying subatmospheric pressure to the vacuum reservoir to facilitate removal of fluid from the wound bed. The wound dressing member includes a visual pressure indicator associated therewith for indicating a level of pressure within the vacuum reservoir. The visual pressure indicator includes color indicia having a plurality of colors corresponding to a condition of the pressure within the vacuum reservoir. The wound dressing member includes a lower absorbent member positionable adjacent the wound bed and an upper member which at least partially defines the vacuum reservoir. At least one of the top member and the lower absorbent member has the visual pressure indicator mounted thereto.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 13, 2010
    Publication date: November 4, 2010
    Applicant: TYCO HEALTHCARE GROUP LP
    Inventors: Kurt Haggstrom, David Fink, Katja Grundmeier
  • Patent number: 7815621
    Abstract: A system allows for the safe, rapid, efficient recovery of a drug solution from sealed vials. The system is closed so that highly potent compounds can later be recovered and reworked without large investment in further engineering controls. The system includes three main components: a recovery device that holds sealed vials containing a solution, and provides means to access the contents of the vials; a peristaltic pump that pumps solution out of the vials; and a recovery tank that receives the pumped solution.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 7, 2005
    Date of Patent: October 19, 2010
    Assignee: Eisai R & D Management Co. Ltd.
    Inventors: Brad Mann, Eddie Ballance, Allen Grobin
  • Patent number: 7806879
    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.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 28, 2008
    Date of Patent: October 5, 2010
    Assignee: DeRoyal Industries, Inc.
    Inventors: Christine N. Brooks, Walter C. Cowart, Terry B. Kehne, Timothy R. Rowen, Eric A. Ward, E. Steven Ward
  • Patent number: 7799004
    Abstract: A vacuum assisted wound closure device having a means for identifying infectious agents within a wound site. The vacuum assisted wound closure device includes a screen for placement within a wound site, a sealing means for covering the wound site, and a vacuum source in fluid communication with the screen. A canister may be disposed between the screen and vacuum source, such that fluids or other exudates that may be drawn from the wound during application of negative pressure by the vacuum source are collected in the canister for later disposal. A sensing device, which may be a gas chromatograph, sensor array, or other similar device capable of optically sensing the presence of a bacterial agent or other form of infection being drawn from the wound site, is disposed within the screen or interposed between the screen and the vacuum source.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 4, 2002
    Date of Patent: September 21, 2010
    Assignee: KCI Licensing, Inc.
    Inventor: David Tumey
  • Publication number: 20100211029
    Abstract: An aspiration system for removing liquid other than urine, which liquid is discharged from the human body, comprises a disposable body interface device having a liquid collection chamber. A liquid sensor detects the presence of liquid within the chamber, and controls application of aspiration suction to remove liquid from the liquid collection region. The body interface device may be a wound dressing, and the liquid wound exudate. The aspiration suction is controlled to remove only excess wound exudate.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 20, 2008
    Publication date: August 19, 2010
    Applicant: ConvaTec Technologies Inc.
    Inventor: Mingliang Lawrence Tsai
  • Patent number: 7763000
    Abstract: A wound treatment apparatus is disclosed to provide vacuum therapy to a wound associated with a patient. The wound treatment apparatus comprises a control unit comprising an alarm and a display displaying an alarm log providing information associated with each activation of the alarm. The display also displays information to instruct a user how to operate the wound treatment apparatus. A method of calibrating the control unit is disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 6, 2004
    Date of Patent: July 27, 2010
    Inventors: James R. Risk, Jr., Robert Petrosenko
  • Publication number: 20100152684
    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.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 11, 2008
    Publication date: June 17, 2010
    Inventors: Kyung Ah Kim, Eun Jong Cha, Seong Su Choi
  • Patent number: 7737321
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for alerting a colostomate or medical attendant to the presence of fecal matter. The device includes a hollow plug detachably securable to a flexible port positioned about the stoma. The port carries an alarm circuit which is triggered when fecal matter enters the plug lumen which will alert the colostomate to an impending episode. The signal may be vibratory, audible or visible and may be transmitted to a remote location. The device includes an inflatable air cuff which, when inflated, presents a physical barrier to the passage of fecal matter. Gas may pass through filters in the tube. The method involves positioning the device in the stoma, inflating the cuff and generating an alarm when matter is sensed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 23, 2003
    Date of Patent: June 15, 2010
    Inventor: Nyle S. Elliott
  • Patent number: 7727206
    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.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 27, 2005
    Date of Patent: June 1, 2010
    Inventor: Geoffrey H. Gorres
  • Publication number: 20100130948
    Abstract: A medical drainage device is provided which includes a casing and a chamber for indicating the amount of suction applied to an animal or human body by the height of a water column. A fill funnel is further provided, which is attached to an opening in the casing for filling water through the opening into the chamber. The fill funnel has a configuration rendering the fill funnel selectively impermeable. A fill funnel and a method of manufacturing a fill funnel are also provided.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 23, 2009
    Publication date: May 27, 2010
    Applicant: Tyco Healthcare Group LP
    Inventors: Paul J. DALY, David Rork SWISHER
  • Publication number: 20100130947
    Abstract: The present disclosure relates to a mobile chest drainage unit connectable to a thoracic catheter for suctioning air and/or fluid from a patient's body. The present disclosure further relates to a thoracic catheter connectable to a mobile chest drainage unit. The thoracic catheter includes at least one sensor for measuring physiologic parameters, which are transmitted to the mobile chest drainage unit. An electronic connection can be provided between the mobile chest drainage unit and the thoracic catheter.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 15, 2009
    Publication date: May 27, 2010
    Applicant: Tyco Healthcare Group LP
    Inventor: Paul J. Daly
  • Patent number: 7722584
    Abstract: An automatic urine collection apparatus includes a collection container for accumulating urine transferred from a urine receiver through a tube and a main body for supporting the collection container, wherein the main body includes a suction pump for sucking the urine received by the urine receiver and carrying the urine to the collection container, a mass sensor for measuring the urine accumulated in the collection container, a control board for calculating a volume of the urine based on the measured mass of the urine, and an indicator for indicating the calculated volume of the urine.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 26, 2007
    Date of Patent: May 25, 2010
    Assignee: Hitachi, Ltd.
    Inventors: Tetsuya Tanaka, Ryosuke Miyagawa, Yoshikazu Ishitsuka, Hiroshi Koizumi, Shigeharu Sayama
  • Publication number: 20100100062
    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.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 17, 2008
    Publication date: April 22, 2010
    Applicant: STERIGEAR LLC
    Inventor: Earl G. Christensen
  • Patent number: 7699828
    Abstract: A holder for receiving a sampling tube of a blood sampling system is disclosed. The holder has an interior pocket which can be conformed from a closed position to an open position for receiving the sampling tube.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 13, 2005
    Date of Patent: April 20, 2010
    Assignee: Fenwal, Inc.
    Inventors: Jean-Marie Mathias, Jean-Claude Bernes
  • Patent number: 7691092
    Abstract: An ambulatory device for measuring urine flow comprises a portable hand-held container and a handgrip mounted thereto. A flow-measuring device is located in the container, and a means for collecting the data measured by the flow-measuring device is also provided. The parameters of the urine flow in the container are measured by the flow-measuring device and are processed by the aforementioned means for collecting data. The handgrip is pivotally mounted to the container by a double-pivot mechanism for maintaining the container substantially vertical in a number of positions of the handgrip. The flow-measuring device includes a sensor that measures a displacement of an air column related to a variation of pressure due to a variation of a urine level in the container.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 9, 2005
    Date of Patent: April 6, 2010
    Assignee: McGill University
    Inventors: Jacques Corcos, Jules Gauthier, Ke Wu
  • Patent number: 7670323
    Abstract: A reduced pressure treatment apparatus includes a drape for positioning over the wound site to create and maintain a substantially air-tight cavity between the wound site and the drape. A multi-lumen suction tube is provided to be attached to a reduced pressure source. The multi-lumen suction tube includes a center lumen and at least one outer lumen and is configured to deliver reduced pressure beneath the drape to the substantially air-tight cavity. The multi-lumen suction tube is adapted to allow fluid to be drawn from the wound site through the center lumen and pressure to be monitored at the wound site through the at least one outer lumen.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 2, 2007
    Date of Patent: March 2, 2010
    Assignee: KCI Licensing, Inc.
    Inventors: Kenneth William Hunt, Keith Patrick Heaton
  • Publication number: 20100049150
    Abstract: A sensor for use in a canister for fluid collection, the canister having a canister top and defining a fluid collection chamber. The sensor includes a first electrode and a second electrode. The first electrode includes a first portion and a second portion, wherein the first portion of the first electrode is supported by the canister top, and the second portion of the first electrode is configured to extend into the fluid collection chamber. The second electrode includes a first portion and a second portion, wherein the first portion of the second electrode is supported by the canister top, and the second portion of the second electrode is configured to extend into the fluid collection chamber. The sensor also includes an electric circuit configured to detect an electrical property associated with the first and second electrodes.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 26, 2009
    Publication date: February 25, 2010
    Applicant: Tyco Healthcare Group LP
    Inventors: Richard M. Braga, David R. Swisher
  • Patent number: 7667608
    Abstract: The present subject matter relates to absorbent articles and signaling devices for use therewith. An absorbent article may be provided with selected electrical components used as wetness or other type sensors and may also incorporate one or more electrical components, characteristics of which may be determined by a coupled signaling device. An attached signaling device may automatically determine a product identification based on characteristics of the electrical components detected and adjust operating characteristics or parameters for the sensing device. Determinations could be made based on gender, age and approximate weight of the user of the absorbent device. In addition automatic checks can be made to determine mutual operability of the signaling device with an associated absorbent article or visa-versa.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 30, 2007
    Date of Patent: February 23, 2010
    Assignee: Kimberly-Clark Worldwide, Inc.
    Inventors: Thomas M. Ales, Darold D. Tippey
  • Publication number: 20100042059
    Abstract: A reduced-pressure system for delivering reduced pressure for medical purposes to a desired site and to receive fluids in one instance includes a reservoir having an interior space operable to contain the fluids. A reduced-pressure delivery conduit is placed in fluid communication with the interior space for delivering the reduced pressure to the desired site. A source conduit and a pressure sensor conduit are placed in fluid communication with the interior space. A pressure sensor is placed in fluid communication with the pressure sensor conduit. A reduced-pressure source is placed in fluid communication with the source conduit. A reduced-pressure control unit is associated with the pressure sensor and the reduced-pressure source and is operable to receive pressure data from the pressure sensor and supply data from the reduced-pressure source and to determine when a reservoir-full/blockage condition exists. Other systems and methods are presented.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 7, 2009
    Publication date: February 18, 2010
    Inventors: Benjamin Andrew Pratt, Christopher Brion Locka, Aldan Marcus Toul
  • Publication number: 20100036333
    Abstract: An apparatus is provided for collecting medical waste fluids. The apparatus includes: a medical waste collection container for collecting medical waste fluids; first and second electrically conductive sensing elements disposed inside the container so as to be exposed to fluid collected in the container, where the first and second sensing elements are located inside the container at a position corresponding to a full fluid level at which point the container is full of fluid; and an electronic circuit coupled to the sensing elements for generating a full alarm signal when the electronic circuit determines that current can flow between the first and second sensing elements as a result of fluid in the container reaching the full fluid level and thereby completing a current path between the first and second sensing elements.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 31, 2008
    Publication date: February 11, 2010
    Inventors: Albert A. Schenk, III, Patrick E. Eddy, David K. Platt, Joseph A. Carmichael, Terry S. Callaghan
  • Publication number: 20100030167
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a method and dressing for detecting detachment of the dressing, which is applied to a surface of an at least partly electrically conductive object. The dressing comprises an adhesive for attaching the dressing to the electrically conductive object and at least two electrodes arranged in a distance from the electrically conductive object. A voltage is applied to the first and second electrode establishing an electrical circuit comprising a first capacitor between the first electrode and the electrically conductive object and a second capacitor between the second electrode and the electrically conductive object. Changes of the capacitance between at least one of the first and the second electrode and the electrically conductive object are detected, and an alarm is activated when the changes of the capacitance reach a predetermined value. This advantageously provides a method whereby a leak can be detected quickly.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 20, 2007
    Publication date: February 4, 2010
    Inventors: Carsten Thirstrup, Daniel Nilsson, Henrik Pranov, Lars Lading
  • Publication number: 20100010459
    Abstract: The present invention relates to an undergarment (1) comprising: a supporting part (2) which surrounds at least the hips and the top of each thigh; and a flexible collecting bag (10) positioned in the crotch.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 12, 2007
    Publication date: January 14, 2010
    Inventors: Francois Piette, Roger Tambrun
  • Patent number: 7645968
    Abstract: A method is provided for securing a fluid meter to a fluid collection bag. The method includes the steps of providing a meter ha6 ving a housing defining a fluid receptacle and at least one drain opening, providing a collection bag defining a fluid reservoir and having at least one inlet opening and securing the meter to the bag using an RF welding device to allow fluid communication between the fluid receptacle and the fluid reservoir. In one embodiment, the housing includes a raised surface positioned about the at least one drain opening to which the collection bag is welded.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 30, 2006
    Date of Patent: January 12, 2010
    Assignee: Tyco Healthcare Group LP
    Inventors: Lawrence Salvadori, Dennis Schreuer
  • Publication number: 20090312726
    Abstract: The present invention relates to the analysis apparatus capable of collecting the body fluid such as urine or blood, for embodiment urination and measuring or calculating the specific constituent from the collected body urine, and the apparatus for collecting body fluid capable of using by connecting to the analysis apparatus and its related article, in which the apparatus for collecting and analyzing for the body fluid of a patient consists of the body fluid collecting part and the collecting part case, the apparatus for collecting body fluid consists of the body fluid collecting part, the total tube and adapter, the collecting part is constructed with the absorbing tube, the sensor tube, the cleansing tube and the passage and is attachable/detachable connected to the collecting part, a diaper and pants exclusive for a patient are provided as the related article such that it is convenient to posses and has effects in the urination having no relations to the intention of a patient or in case of unable to use
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 2, 2007
    Publication date: December 17, 2009
    Applicant: Kyoung-Hun Kim & Hanmedics Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Kyoung-Hun Kim
  • Publication number: 20090312727
    Abstract: Apparatus is disclosed for applying negative pressure to a wound site to promote healing.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 6, 2009
    Publication date: December 17, 2009
    Inventor: Keith Patrick Heaton
  • Patent number: 7621898
    Abstract: A waste collection and disposal system for use in health care facilities is provided. The system includes a mobile waste collection unit for moving between use areas in the health care facility to collect waste material generated during medical procedures including body fluids, body tissues, saline, etc. The waste collection unit includes stacked upper and lower waste containers for receiving the waste material. During use, the upper waste container can be emptied into the lower waste container for temporary storage. In addition, different vacuum levels can be provided in the waste containers during complex procedures. Once a user desires to empty the waste collection unit, the waste collection unit is wheeled to a docking station. At the docking station, the waste material is off-loaded to a waste drain and the waste collection unit is cleaned and rinsed for further use.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 13, 2006
    Date of Patent: November 24, 2009
    Assignee: Stryker Corporation
    Inventors: Brent S. Lalomia, Stephen J. Reasoner, Stephen P. Isham, Chamara Gamhewage, Mark A. Wasserman, Glen D. Rocque, Troy E. Durnell, Grant T. Westphal, Brian MacLachlan
  • Publication number: 20090287170
    Abstract: The present invention provides a system for collecting urine, including a housing defining an interior cavity and a trough extending along a substantial length of an exterior surface thereof; a peristaltic pumping mechanism coupled to the housing; a collection receptacle positionable within the trough of the housing, the collection receptacle defining an opening for receiving urine; an optical sensor proximate the trough to detect a position of the collection receptacle, the sensor being operable to activate the peristaltic pumping mechanism; a reservoir in fluid communication with the collection receptacle; and a conduit providing a fluid path between the collection receptacle and the reservoir, the conduit being coupled to the peristaltic pumping mechanism to facilitate fluid flow from the collection receptacle to the reservoir.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 13, 2008
    Publication date: November 19, 2009
    Applicant: PREFERRED MEDICAL DEVICES, INC.
    Inventor: Edgar A. OTTO
  • Patent number: 7569026
    Abstract: A bag connection comprises a first bag, a tube having a blood-drawing needle at the front end, a plurality of second bags, tubes for connecting the first and second bags, and tubes and branch connectors for connecting the second bags to each other. On the other hand, a filter unit includes a filter, and a tube connected at opposite ends thereof to the inlet and outlet of the filter. The tubes of the bag concatenation and the tube of the filter unit have respective markers attached thereto. With these markers used as marks, both tubes are aseptically connected by a tube aseptic connection device, thereby incorporating the filter unit into an intermediate portion of a tube of the bag concatenation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 29, 2004
    Date of Patent: August 4, 2009
    Assignee: Terumo Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventor: Hiroyuki Sugawara
  • Publication number: 20090143754
    Abstract: There is provided a personal care product having a body side liner, a baffle and an indicator strip with two ends. The indicator has an amine sensitive dye near at least one end. The indicator extends from the target area just below the liner to just above the baffle such that the dye deposit is visible to an unaided eye. The dye changes color in the presence of amines which are characteristic of infection, thus alerting the user to the possibility of infection. Such an indicator placed in a feminine hygiene pad, for example, may be useful in the diagnosis of vaginits.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 6, 2009
    Publication date: June 4, 2009
    Inventors: RameshBabu Boga, John Gavin MacDonald
  • Patent number: 7500968
    Abstract: A urine collection apparatus includes an adaptable reservoir that is sized and shaped for conveniently and effectively being transported by a user. The reservoir includes a top portion including an intake valve in fluid communication with the reservoir. The intake valve is provided with an opening such that the male catheter can be selectively biased in fluid communication with an interior of the reservoir. Such an intake valve further has a threaded screw cap directly and adjustably coupled thereto for effectively allowing a selected quantity of air to continuously flow into and out of the reservoir wherein the quantity of air is commensurate with a quantity of fluid discharging and entering the reservoir respectively. The intake valve preferably has a monolithically formed conical tip that terminates proximal to the top portion such that the male catheter can effectively be supported at a fixed relationship with the reservoir during operating conditions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 6, 2006
    Date of Patent: March 10, 2009
    Inventors: Thomas P. Nappa, Michael J. Nappa
  • Patent number: 7498478
    Abstract: A method of detecting the presence of an insult within an absorbent article is disclosed. An electrical property is monitored and the electrical property is compared to a wet/dry threshold value to determine either a wet characteristic or a dry characteristic of the article. If a dry characteristic, then a first and possibly a second test are applied. If a wet characteristic, then the second test is applied. The electrical property is compared to a first threshold value and a second threshold value is set based upon the function of the comparison. A change in the electrical property of the article is monitored to determine if the electrical property has stabilized after activation of an insult alarm.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 31, 2005
    Date of Patent: March 3, 2009
    Assignee: Kimberly-Clark Worldwide, Inc.
    Inventors: Andrew Long, Meghan E. Collins
  • Publication number: 20090054857
    Abstract: Described herein is an automated fluid drain control apparatus and method which comprises a first collection chamber which is connected to a drain that has been inserted into the subarachnoid area in lumbar region of the body. The volume of fluid into the first collection chamber is controlled as a function of time by being constantly measured such that too much fluid will not be drained from the body.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 22, 2008
    Publication date: February 26, 2009
    Applicant: BECKERSMITH MEDICAL, INC.
    Inventor: Jan ECKERMANN