US20100121230A1 - Therapeutic apparatus for treating ulcers - Google Patents

Therapeutic apparatus for treating ulcers Download PDF

Info

Publication number
US20100121230A1
US20100121230A1 US12/617,598 US61759809A US2010121230A1 US 20100121230 A1 US20100121230 A1 US 20100121230A1 US 61759809 A US61759809 A US 61759809A US 2010121230 A1 US2010121230 A1 US 2010121230A1
Authority
US
United States
Prior art keywords
compression
foot
unit
vacuum
vacuum pump
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Abandoned
Application number
US12/617,598
Inventor
Richard C. Vogel
David M. Tumey
Susan P. Morris
L. Tab Randolph
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
KCI Licensing Inc
Original Assignee
KCI Licensing Inc
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Priority claimed from US08/903,026 external-priority patent/US6135116A/en
Application filed by KCI Licensing Inc filed Critical KCI Licensing Inc
Priority to US12/617,598 priority Critical patent/US20100121230A1/en
Assigned to KINETIC CONCEPTS, INC. reassignment KINETIC CONCEPTS, INC. ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST (SEE DOCUMENT FOR DETAILS). Assignors: VOGEL, RICHARD C., MORRIS, SUSAN P., RANDOLPH, L. TAB, TUMEY, DAVID M.
Assigned to KCI LICENSING, INC. reassignment KCI LICENSING, INC. ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST (SEE DOCUMENT FOR DETAILS). Assignors: KINETIC CONCEPTS, INC.
Publication of US20100121230A1 publication Critical patent/US20100121230A1/en
Abandoned legal-status Critical Current

Links

Images

Classifications

    • AHUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61FFILTERS IMPLANTABLE INTO BLOOD VESSELS; PROSTHESES; DEVICES PROVIDING PATENCY TO, OR PREVENTING COLLAPSING OF, TUBULAR STRUCTURES OF THE BODY, e.g. STENTS; ORTHOPAEDIC, NURSING OR CONTRACEPTIVE DEVICES; FOMENTATION; TREATMENT OR PROTECTION OF EYES OR EARS; BANDAGES, DRESSINGS OR ABSORBENT PADS; FIRST-AID KITS
    • A61F13/00Bandages or dressings; Absorbent pads
    • A61F13/06Bandages or dressings; Absorbent pads specially adapted for feet or legs; Corn-pads; Corn-rings
    • A61F13/064Bandages or dressings; Absorbent pads specially adapted for feet or legs; Corn-pads; Corn-rings for feet
    • A61F13/069Decubitus ulcer bandages
    • AHUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61HPHYSICAL THERAPY APPARATUS, e.g. DEVICES FOR LOCATING OR STIMULATING REFLEX POINTS IN THE BODY; ARTIFICIAL RESPIRATION; MASSAGE; BATHING DEVICES FOR SPECIAL THERAPEUTIC OR HYGIENIC PURPOSES OR SPECIFIC PARTS OF THE BODY
    • A61H9/00Pneumatic or hydraulic massage
    • A61H9/005Pneumatic massage
    • A61H9/0078Pneumatic massage with intermittent or alternately inflated bladders or cuffs
    • AHUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61MDEVICES FOR INTRODUCING MEDIA INTO, OR ONTO, THE BODY; DEVICES FOR TRANSDUCING BODY MEDIA OR FOR TAKING MEDIA FROM THE BODY; DEVICES FOR PRODUCING OR ENDING SLEEP OR STUPOR
    • A61M1/00Suction or pumping devices for medical purposes; Devices for carrying-off, for treatment of, or for carrying-over, body-liquids; Drainage systems
    • A61M1/71Suction drainage systems
    • A61M1/74Suction control
    • AHUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61MDEVICES FOR INTRODUCING MEDIA INTO, OR ONTO, THE BODY; DEVICES FOR TRANSDUCING BODY MEDIA OR FOR TAKING MEDIA FROM THE BODY; DEVICES FOR PRODUCING OR ENDING SLEEP OR STUPOR
    • A61M1/00Suction or pumping devices for medical purposes; Devices for carrying-off, for treatment of, or for carrying-over, body-liquids; Drainage systems
    • A61M1/71Suction drainage systems
    • A61M1/74Suction control
    • A61M1/75Intermittent or pulsating suction
    • AHUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61MDEVICES FOR INTRODUCING MEDIA INTO, OR ONTO, THE BODY; DEVICES FOR TRANSDUCING BODY MEDIA OR FOR TAKING MEDIA FROM THE BODY; DEVICES FOR PRODUCING OR ENDING SLEEP OR STUPOR
    • A61M1/00Suction or pumping devices for medical purposes; Devices for carrying-off, for treatment of, or for carrying-over, body-liquids; Drainage systems
    • A61M1/90Negative pressure wound therapy devices, i.e. devices for applying suction to a wound to promote healing, e.g. including a vacuum dressing
    • AHUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61MDEVICES FOR INTRODUCING MEDIA INTO, OR ONTO, THE BODY; DEVICES FOR TRANSDUCING BODY MEDIA OR FOR TAKING MEDIA FROM THE BODY; DEVICES FOR PRODUCING OR ENDING SLEEP OR STUPOR
    • A61M1/00Suction or pumping devices for medical purposes; Devices for carrying-off, for treatment of, or for carrying-over, body-liquids; Drainage systems
    • A61M1/90Negative pressure wound therapy devices, i.e. devices for applying suction to a wound to promote healing, e.g. including a vacuum dressing
    • A61M1/91Suction aspects of the dressing
    • A61M1/917Suction aspects of the dressing specially adapted for covering whole body parts
    • AHUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61MDEVICES FOR INTRODUCING MEDIA INTO, OR ONTO, THE BODY; DEVICES FOR TRANSDUCING BODY MEDIA OR FOR TAKING MEDIA FROM THE BODY; DEVICES FOR PRODUCING OR ENDING SLEEP OR STUPOR
    • A61M1/00Suction or pumping devices for medical purposes; Devices for carrying-off, for treatment of, or for carrying-over, body-liquids; Drainage systems
    • A61M1/90Negative pressure wound therapy devices, i.e. devices for applying suction to a wound to promote healing, e.g. including a vacuum dressing
    • A61M1/96Suction control thereof
    • AHUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61HPHYSICAL THERAPY APPARATUS, e.g. DEVICES FOR LOCATING OR STIMULATING REFLEX POINTS IN THE BODY; ARTIFICIAL RESPIRATION; MASSAGE; BATHING DEVICES FOR SPECIAL THERAPEUTIC OR HYGIENIC PURPOSES OR SPECIFIC PARTS OF THE BODY
    • A61H2201/00Characteristics of apparatus not provided for in the preceding codes
    • A61H2201/50Control means thereof
    • A61H2201/5007Control means thereof computer controlled
    • AHUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61HPHYSICAL THERAPY APPARATUS, e.g. DEVICES FOR LOCATING OR STIMULATING REFLEX POINTS IN THE BODY; ARTIFICIAL RESPIRATION; MASSAGE; BATHING DEVICES FOR SPECIAL THERAPEUTIC OR HYGIENIC PURPOSES OR SPECIFIC PARTS OF THE BODY
    • A61H2205/00Devices for specific parts of the body
    • A61H2205/06Arms
    • A61H2205/065Hands
    • AHUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61HPHYSICAL THERAPY APPARATUS, e.g. DEVICES FOR LOCATING OR STIMULATING REFLEX POINTS IN THE BODY; ARTIFICIAL RESPIRATION; MASSAGE; BATHING DEVICES FOR SPECIAL THERAPEUTIC OR HYGIENIC PURPOSES OR SPECIFIC PARTS OF THE BODY
    • A61H2205/00Devices for specific parts of the body
    • A61H2205/12Feet
    • AHUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61MDEVICES FOR INTRODUCING MEDIA INTO, OR ONTO, THE BODY; DEVICES FOR TRANSDUCING BODY MEDIA OR FOR TAKING MEDIA FROM THE BODY; DEVICES FOR PRODUCING OR ENDING SLEEP OR STUPOR
    • A61M1/00Suction or pumping devices for medical purposes; Devices for carrying-off, for treatment of, or for carrying-over, body-liquids; Drainage systems
    • A61M1/90Negative pressure wound therapy devices, i.e. devices for applying suction to a wound to promote healing, e.g. including a vacuum dressing
    • A61M1/96Suction control thereof
    • A61M1/964Suction control thereof having venting means on or near the dressing

Definitions

  • the present invention relates to methods and apparatus for treating foot ulcers. More particularly, the invention relates to methods and apparatus for applying positive and/or negative pressures to treat foot ulcers such as diabetic ulcers, arterial ulcers, venous stasis ulcers, pressure ulcers, and the like.
  • Foot ulcers can be devastating—they are difficult to heal and are potentially limb-threatening.
  • One of the difficulties is that a patient will often lose sensation in the area of an ulcer and, as a result, the patient tends to abuse the ulcer without notice.
  • Foot ulcers in particular, are troublesome because they are out of the patient's sign, especially when located on or near the patient's heel. Unseen and unfelt, the patient does not realize that the foot ulcer is colliding into a wheelchair, bedpost or the like. Consequently, the onset of a foot ulcer may place the foot at a significant risk for progression toward sepsis, gangrene and, ultimately, amputation.
  • V.A.C Another approach, for treatment of wounds, is represented by Applicant's products recently made commercially available under the trade designations “V.A.C.” or “VACUUM ASSISTED CLOSURE.”
  • the “V.A.C.” products generally comprise the application of negative pressure directly to a wound site, either on a continuous or intermittent basis.
  • Such therapy units direct negative pressure to the wound site through a disposable pad, which includes a wound dressing and associated tubing, filters and drainage receptacles.
  • the dressing itself includes a porous foam dressing sized to fit within the wound, the tubing directs the negative pressure into the foam, and the combination is sealed into the wound with the use of an adhesive drape that overlaps the entire wound site as well as a margin of surrounding intact skin.
  • This therapy is promising for treatment of pressure ulcers and chronic open wounds, including decubitus ulcers and diabetic ulcers.
  • the present invention an improved method and apparatus for providing concurrent applications of intermittent pneumatic compression and vacuum assisted closure—generally comprises a wound dressing for introduction of a negative pressure into a wound on a patient's foot and a foot wrap for application of positive, compressive forces to substantially all of the patients foot.
  • a suction pump having an associated vacuum sensor and first feedback mechanism, supplies negative pressure to the wound dressing.
  • a ventable source of pressurized gas having an associated pressure transducer and second feedback mechanism, supplies positive force to the foot wrap.
  • At least one control system is operably associated with the suction pump and ventable source of pressurized gas for controlling the negative and positive applications of pressure to the patient's foot.
  • the wound dressing is preferably first applied to the patient's foot followed by application of the foot wrap. Each is then in turn operably connected to its respective pressure source.
  • a porous pad having plastic tubing inserted therein for connection to the suction pump, is inserted at least partially into the wound at a patient's foot.
  • the wound dressing, and margin of impact surrounding the wound is then preferably covered with a wound drape.
  • the foot wrap, having fluid connection hardware associated therewith, is then placed in operable position over the wound dressing.
  • the pad's plastic tubing is placed in fluid communication with the suction pump and the foot wrap's connection hardware is placed in fluid communication with the ventable source of pressurized gas.
  • negative pressure to the wound dressing is monitored and adjusted as necessary, by an integrated control system, to achieve desired therapy.
  • positive, compressive force delivered to substantially the entire foot through the foot wrap is monitored and adjusted as necessary, also by an integrated control system, to achieve the desired therapy.
  • the application timing of each component therapy is adjustable to allow concurrent application of pneumatic compression therapy and vacuum assisted closure therapy. It is to be understood that such concurrent therapy may entail continuous or intermittent application of one or both therapies and may or may not involve simultaneous application of the therapies.
  • FIG. 1 illustrates, for reference purposes, regions 101 - 106 of a typical foot 100 ;
  • FIG. 2 shows, in a schematic block diagram, a first configuration 200 of the preferred embodiment of the present invention
  • FIG. 3 shows, in perspective view, exemplary foot compression wraps 301 , 302 as are utilized in the implementation of the preferred embodiment of the present invention
  • FIG. 4 shows, in semi-perspective view, an exemplary wound closure dressing 402 and fluid reservoir 401 as are utilized in the implementation of the preferred embodiment of the present invention
  • FIG. 5 shows, in a schematic block diagram, a second configuration 500 of the preferred embodiment of the present invention
  • FIGS. 6A and 6B illustrate, in plan view, application, as taught for implementation of the preferred embodiment of the present invention, of a wound closure dressing 402 , 404 to a human foot 100 ;
  • FIGS. 7A-7D illustrate, in perspective view, application, as taught for implementation of the preferred embodiment of the present invention, of a foot compression wrap 301 , 302 to a human foot 100 ;
  • FIG. 8 shows a wound closure dressing 404 and foot compression wrap 301 as simultaneously applied to a human foot 100 in implementation of the preferred embodiment of the present invention.
  • Region 101 is referred to as the plantar arch region.
  • Region 104 is referred to as the metatarsal head, or ball, region.
  • Region 105 is referred to as the toe region.
  • Region 106 is referred to as part of the dorsal aspect region.
  • these regions are shown as being mutually exclusive, this representation is for purposes of illustration only. It should be understood that one region may overlap another.
  • reference to the heel region 102 is not necessarily confined to that region illustrated in the drawings; the reference may actually include the heel region 102 and overlapping portions of adjacent regions such as the ankle region 101 or plantar arch region 103 .
  • a representation location 110 of an ulcer is designated with a dashed margin in FIG. 1 , at the bottom of the heel region 102 .
  • FIG. 8 illustrates a typical preferred application of the present invention for treating an ulcer, or other wound, at ulcer location 110 .
  • localized negative pressure is induced on a foot 100 at the ulcer location 110 while positive, compressive force is applied to the foot 100 .
  • the resulting combination actively stimulates healing at the ulcer site 110 while also promoting healthy circulation of blood and nutrients.
  • FIGS. 2-4 there is shown a first configuration 200 of a system for therapeutic treatment of foot ulcers such as that shown at the ulcer location 110 .
  • This first configuration generally comprises an efficient combination of previously available vacuum assisted closure and intermittent pneumatic compression technologies for concurrent application of positive and negative pressures to an affected foot.
  • an intermittent pneumatic compression unit 201 and a vacuum assisted closure unit 202 in operable communication with a single embedded micro-controller unit 203 .
  • the micro-controller unit 203 may be implemented in any of a variety of hardware and/or software designs as will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the relevant arts. As will be apparent herein, the micro-controller unit 203 provides a single point of feedback driven control for both the intermittent pneumatic compression unit 201 and the vacuum assisted closure unit 202 .
  • the intermittent pneumatic compression unit 201 of the first configuration 200 generally comprises an oscillating air compressor 204 in fluid communication with an air reservoir 205 through a one-way check valve 206 .
  • the check valve 206 serves to prevent pneumatic back flow from the air reservoir 205 to the oscillating air compressor 204 during periods in which the air compressor 204 is not in operation.
  • the air reservoir 205 of the preferred embodiment is in fluid and operable communication with one or more foot compression wraps 301 , 302 through a series of three-way solenoid valves 207 - 209 , ports 210 , 211 , connectors 303 , 304 and plastic, or other suitable material, tubing 305 , 306 .
  • Each of the solenoid valves 207 - 209 of the pneumatic compression unit 201 is chosen to be normally closed (when the coils are not energized) to the air reservoir 205 and normally open (when the coils are not energized) between the foot compression wraps 301 , 302 and the atmosphere. When the coils are energized, atmosphere is closed off and a two-way pneumatic flow path is established between the air reservoir 205 and the foot compression wraps 301 , 302 .
  • Two of the solenoid valves 208 , 209 are designated as the left foot solenoid valve 208 and the right foot solenoid valve 209 .
  • the third solenoid valve 207 is necessary only in an alternate embodiment of the present invention and, even then, may be dispensed with implementations utilizing solenoid valves 208 , 209 having a “no-flow” capability.
  • the vacuum assisted closure unit 202 of the first configuration 200 of the preferred embodiment generally comprises a vacuum pump 212 in fluid communication with a fluid reservoir 401 through a dryer filter 214 .
  • An intake vent 213 is provided for connection, through appropriate tubing 403 , of a porous foam dressing 402 to be inserted into a patient's wound 110 , as will be understood further herein.
  • the dryer filter 214 serves to protect the vacuum pump 212 , which is not readily decontaminated, from the potentially hazardous or infectious wastes drawn from the wound site 110 .
  • a port 215 is provided for releasable connection to the fluid reservoir 401 in order that the reservoir 401 may be removed and discarded when full.
  • a mercury activated tilt sensor 216 indicates attitudes in which there is a danger of spilling fluids from the reservoir 401
  • a push-button interlock switch 217 in the back of the reservoir pot indicates improper or incomplete placement of the reservoir 401
  • a capacitively-activated level sensor 218 indicates a full condition of the reservoir 401 .
  • Feedback from any of these sensors 217 - 219 will cause termination of vacuum pump 212 operation, as will be understood herein.
  • Those of ordinary skill in the art will quickly recognize that many other safety features may be integrated into the system 200 as desired.
  • a single embedded micro-controller unit 203 for operation of both the intermittent pneumatic compression unit 201 and the vacuum assisted closure unit 202 .
  • the micro-controller unit 203 , intermittent pneumatic compression unit 201 and vacuum assisted closure unit 202 all receive electrical power through a conventional wall plug 219 fitted with a hospital grade EMI/RFI filter, fuse and switch unit 220 .
  • a power supply 222 is provided with the micro-controller unit 203 for conversion of alternating current to direct current at an appropriate voltage level for the integrated circuitry and displays 229 , 230 present on the unit 203 .
  • the micro-controller unit 203 is fitted with a conventional variable speed cooling fan 221 , as is known in the art.
  • the micro-controller unit 203 is provided with a solenoid valve control circuit 223 , a compressor control circuit 224 , a vacuum pump speed control circuit 225 , a vacuum pump control circuit 226 , a pressure sensor 227 and a vacuum sensor 228 .
  • Each circuit 223 - 226 of the unit 203 is operatively connected, directly or indirectly, to the system components being controlled and the various sensors 227 , 228 upon which operation of the system components is based.
  • the solenoid valve control circuit 223 opens or closes the left and/or right solenoid valves 208 , 209 according to a predetermining timing cycle in order to intermittently apply positive forces to substantially all, but in particular the plantar region 103 , of the patient's foot 100 .
  • the oscillating air compressor 204 fills the air reservoir 205 to an automatically determinable target pressure, typically in the range of 350 mm Hg as measured by the pressure sensor 227 .
  • the compressor 204 is shut off under the control of the compressor control circuit 224 .
  • an equilibrium pressure is reached between the air reservoir 204 and the wraps 301 , 302 .
  • This equilibrium pressure typically in the range of 160 mm Hg, is then measured by the pressure sensor 227 whereby an accurate indication of the actual pressure delivered to the plantar region arch 103 is obtained.
  • the compressor control circuit 224 of the micro-controller unit 203 is then able to make use of this measurement to adjust, for subsequent compression cycles, the pressure of the air initially delivered to the air reservoir 205 .
  • the actual force applied to the patient's plantar region 103 may be robustly and accurately controlled, largely independent of wrap placement, changes in swelling or edema, of patient movements.
  • air is exhausted from the left and/or right foot compression wraps 301 , 302 , to the atmosphere, through the left and/or right solenoid valves 208 , 209 .
  • a third solenoid valve 207 may be incorporated to implement a timed-mode embodiment of the present invention.
  • the oscillating air compressor 204 may operate continuously, the pressure ultimately delivered to the plantar regions 103 being controlled by the timed opening and closing of the third solenoid valve 207 .
  • the air reservoir 205 is filled to the extent of the air compressor's capability, typically in the range of 800-900 mm Hg. Measurement of the initial pressure within the air reservoir is not necessary, so long as a relatively high pressure may be obtained within the capability of the air compressor 204 .
  • the solenoid valve control circuit 223 opens or closes the left and/or right solenoid valves 208 , 209 in order to pre-select either the left or right foot, or both feet, for application of positive forces to the corresponding plantar regions 103 . Substantially concurrent with the left and/or right foot selection, the solenoid valve control circuit 223 opens, for a short period of time, and then closes the third solenoid valve 207 , causing a substantially impulsive burst of air to be released from the air reservoir 205 into the left and/or right foot compression wraps 301 , 302 .
  • the pressure sensor 223 measures the pressure of the air released into the left and/or right foot compression wraps 301 , 302 . If necessary in order to achieve the desired compression wrap pressure, the open time of the third solenoid valve 207 may then be increased or decreased for subsequent compression cycles. Alternatively, the solenoid valve control circuit 223 may be implemented to produce only very short bursts of air from the air reservoir 205 into the foot compression cycle, and/or the time there between, may be increased or decreased during the present compression cycle, or in subsequent compression cycles, in response to the measured pressure in the foot compression wraps 301 , 302 .
  • the time-mode embodiment provides a compression cycle-by-compression cycle adjustment scheme by which the actual force applied to the patient's plantar region 103 may be robustly and accurately controlled, largely independent of wrap placement, changes in swelling or edema, or patient movements.
  • air is exhausted from the left and/or right foot compression wraps 301 , 302 , to the atmosphere, through the left and/or right solenoid valves 208 , 209 .
  • the third solenoid valve 207 in favor of utilizing left and right solenoid valves 208 , 209 having an intermediate “no-flow” capability.
  • the left and right solenoid valves 208 , 209 are normally closed (when the coils are not energized) between the foot compression wraps 301 , 302 and both the air reservoir 205 and the atmosphere, i.e. are in a “no-flow” state.
  • Short bursts of air are then delivered from the air reservoir 205 to the left and/or right foot compression wraps 301 , 302 , according to the foregoing timed-mode methods, by toggling the left and/or right solenoid valves 208 , 209 between their no-flow states and their states of open flow between the air reservoir 205 and respective wrap 301 , 302 .
  • air is exhausted from the wraps 301 , 302 by opening the flow paths to the atmosphere.
  • the negative pressure induced by the vacuum pump 212 is measured by a vacuum sensor 228 in fluid communication with the fluid reservoir 401 through an interposed orifice restrictor 231 .
  • the restrictor 231 serves to protect the vacuum sensor 228 from the relatively large negative pressures necessary in the treatment process as these pressures are typically too excessive for direct measurement under presently available sensor technologies.
  • Vacuum feedback is monitored by the vacuum pump control circuits 226 to adjust the speed, through the vacuum pump speed control circuit 225 , of the vacuum pump's motor in order to increase or decrease delivered vacuum. Additionally, the vacuum pump control circuit 226 monitors the various safety features 216 - 218 of the vacuum assisted closure unit 202 in order to effect shut down of the system 200 in the event of a hazardous condition.
  • LCD liquid crystal display
  • LED light emitting diode
  • a second configuration 500 of the preferred embodiment, shown in FIG. 6 the oscillating air compressor 204 and the vacuum pump 212 are replaced by a single integrated compressor and vacuum pump unit 501 having internally thereto two separate plenums 502 , 203 .
  • Operation is identical to that of the first configuration 200 , with the exception that instead of speed control of the motors of the compressor 204 and vacuum pump 212 , a clutch mechanism similar to that of automobile air conditioning units is utilized.
  • Such mechanisms are readily understood by those of ordinary skill in the art.
  • the appropriate control circuits 224 , 225 generate pulse streams by which the respective clutch mechanisms are activated in pulse width modulated fashion.
  • FIGS. 6A and 6B there is shown the typical application of a wound closure dressing 402 to an example ulcer 110 .
  • a porous foam dressing 402 having inserted therein tubing 403 for establishing fluid communication with the vacuum assisted closure unit 202 , is inserted into the site 100 .
  • the porous foam dressing 402 and tubing 403 are anchored, and substantially sealed, within the wound site 110 by a covering of adhesive drape 404 .
  • the drape 404 physically covers the wound site 110 as well as the margin of impact 601 surrounding the wound site 110 .
  • a typical application therefore, has a diameter of approximately four to eight inches, as measured if the drape 404 was laid flat.
  • the vacuum assisted closure unit 202 applies negative pressure, through the tubing 403 , to the ulcer site 110 .
  • the porous foam dressing 402 serves to promote distribution of this negative pressure throughout the ulcer site 110 . As a result, this distribution may be considered substantially uniform.
  • the adhesive drape 404 itself or in concert with such other provisions as may be implemented by caregivers, serves to provide a seal around the wound site 110 . This seal provides infection control for the wound while also minimizing leaks of the negative pressures applied thereto.
  • FIGS. 7A-7D there is shown the application of a foot compression wrap 301 to a foot 100 .
  • the wrap 301 is first laid flat, generally beneath the heel, plantar arch and metatarsal head regions 102 - 104 of the foot 100 .
  • a first tab 702 is wrapped about the dorsal aspect region 106 of the foot 100 .
  • a second tab 703 is next also wrapped about the dorsal aspect region 106 of the foot 100 .
  • a second tab 703 as shown in FIG.
  • a third tab 705 is wrapped about the ankle region 101 of the foot 100 and secured over the dorsal aspect region 106 by a tab 706 of hook-type material.
  • portions of the heel region 102 and toe region 105 are not covered by the foot compression wrap 301 notwithstanding the object of compressing substantially the entire foot 100 .
  • This serves to enable viewing, by caregivers, of the exposed portions of the toe region 105 and heel region 102 for the purposes of assessing the health of the foot 100 while the foot compression therapy is ongoing. This also readies skin on the foot 100 to minimize accumulation of moisture and the attendant risks of maceration.
  • the wound closure dressing 402 , 404 is applied first, in its entirety, and then the foot compression wrap 301 is applied. Due to the varying locations of ulcers on the foot 100 , application of the foot compression wrap 301 may overlap the wound dressing site 601 . Many applications within the scope of the present invention will also involve lapping the inflatable bladder 701 of the foot compression wrap 301 over the actual ulcer site 110 . In such applications, the foam dressing 402 also serves the added function of helping to cushion the actual ulcer site 110 from the comprehensive action of the foot compression wrap 301 . As shown in FIG. 8 , the foot compression wrap 301 may overlap a portion of the ulcer site 110 to an extent that the inflatable bladder of the foot compression wrap 301 applies a compressive force over and onto the ulcer site 110 .
  • the foot compression wrap 301 is then operatively connected to the intermittent pneumatic compression unit 201 and the wound dressing 402 is operatively connected to the vacuum assisted closure unit 202 .
  • Vacuum assisted closure therapy and intermittent pneumatic foot compression therapy can then be concurrently implemented, i.e., either simultaneously or in some indefinitely repeated cycle between positive and negative applications during which, it is to be understood, temporal overlap of positive and negative applications may or may not occur.
  • the vacuum assisted closure unit 202 is provided with various settings for both intermittent and continuous application of negative pressure to the wound closure dressing 402 .
  • the most preferred selection of therapy options, i.e., intermittent or continuous vacuum, has not been determined at this time, although it is contemplated that either setting may be applicable.
  • typical implementation of the invention will involve some periods of time during which negative pressure is actually applied to the ulcer site 110 notwithstanding the substantially concurrent application of compressive forces via the foot compression wrap 301 , 302 .
  • the applications of positive and negative pressures are timed such that negative pressure is applied to the ulcer site 110 over a first period of time and positive pressure is then applied to substantially the entire foot 100 over a second period of time.
  • Such alternating applications of negative pressure and positive pressure over the corresponding regions of the foot are then repeated indefinitely for the duration of the therapy.

Abstract

A method and apparatus for providing concurrent applications of intermittent pneumatic compression therapy and vacuum assisted closure therapy generally comprises a wound dressing for introduction of a negative pressure into a wound on a patient's foot and a foot wrap for application of positive, compressive forces to substantially all of the patient's foot. A suction pump, having an associated vacuum sensor and first feedback mechanism, supplies negative pressure to the wound dressing. A ventable source of pressurized gas, having an associated pressure transducer and second feedback mechanism, supplies positive force to the foot wrap. At least one control system is operably associated with the suction pump and ventable source of pressurized gas for controlling the negative and positive applications of pressure to the patient's foot. Controlled modes for operation include continuous or intermittent application of one or both therapies and simultaneous or cycled application of the therapies.

Description

    CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
  • This application is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/365,433, filed Mar. 1, 2006, which is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 09/458,280, filed Dec. 10, 1999, now U.S. Pat. No. 7,214,202, which is a divisional of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 08/903,026, filed Jul. 30, 1997, now U.S. Pat. No. 6,135,116, which claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 60/053,902, filed Jul. 28, 1997. All of the above-referenced applications are hereby incorporated by reference.
  • BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
  • 1. Field of the Invention
  • The present invention relates to methods and apparatus for treating foot ulcers. More particularly, the invention relates to methods and apparatus for applying positive and/or negative pressures to treat foot ulcers such as diabetic ulcers, arterial ulcers, venous stasis ulcers, pressure ulcers, and the like.
  • 2. Description of Related Art
  • Foot ulcers can be devastating—they are difficult to heal and are potentially limb-threatening. One of the difficulties is that a patient will often lose sensation in the area of an ulcer and, as a result, the patient tends to abuse the ulcer without notice. Foot ulcers, in particular, are troublesome because they are out of the patient's sign, especially when located on or near the patient's heel. Unseen and unfelt, the patient does not realize that the foot ulcer is colliding into a wheelchair, bedpost or the like. Consequently, the onset of a foot ulcer may place the foot at a significant risk for progression toward sepsis, gangrene and, ultimately, amputation.
  • Current treatment options for foot ulcers are varied, but all tend to be costly and traumatic; greater efficacy is thus desired. One of the most common treatment options is debridement of necrotic tissue followed by an attempt to physically close the ulcer, typically with sutures, skin grafts or the like. Unfortunately, many patient's condition often worsens. The resulting economic and emotional costs to the patient, and the patient's family, are staggering.
  • On the positive side, there have long been techniques available for promoting healthy circulation of body fluids. The concept of applying positive and/or negative pressure to help affect circulation is ancient, and many have sought to apply this concept to the foot in the form of inflatable boots that squeeze the foot and/or leg. Some have applied alternating positive and negative pressures, in a cyclic fashion, to first force blood out of the foot with positive pressure and then draw blood back into the foot with negative pressure. Recent products offered by Applicant under the trade designation “PLEXIPULSE” have provided intermittent compression, for a variety of indications, through pneumatic force externally applied to the foot. Such products are used, for example, to help prevent venous stasis and to promote circulation or to help treat and assist healing of cutaneous ulceration.
  • Another approach, for treatment of wounds, is represented by Applicant's products recently made commercially available under the trade designations “V.A.C.” or “VACUUM ASSISTED CLOSURE.” The “V.A.C.” products generally comprise the application of negative pressure directly to a wound site, either on a continuous or intermittent basis. Such therapy units direct negative pressure to the wound site through a disposable pad, which includes a wound dressing and associated tubing, filters and drainage receptacles. The dressing itself includes a porous foam dressing sized to fit within the wound, the tubing directs the negative pressure into the foam, and the combination is sealed into the wound with the use of an adhesive drape that overlaps the entire wound site as well as a margin of surrounding intact skin. This therapy is promising for treatment of pressure ulcers and chronic open wounds, including decubitus ulcers and diabetic ulcers.
  • Both of the above-described therapies are currently available as of the filing date of this present application; despite the availability of such progression therapies, however, foot ulcers continue to present serious concerns for patients and caregivers. It is therefore a fundamental object of the present invention to advance upon the prior art by providing an improved method and apparatus for effecting intermittent pneumatic compression concurrently with vacuum assisted closure. Many additional problems, obstacles and challenges present in existing modalities for the treatment of foot ulcers will be evident to caregivers and others of experience and ordinary skill in the art.
  • SUMMARY
  • In accordance with the foregoing objects, the present invention—an improved method and apparatus for providing concurrent applications of intermittent pneumatic compression and vacuum assisted closure—generally comprises a wound dressing for introduction of a negative pressure into a wound on a patient's foot and a foot wrap for application of positive, compressive forces to substantially all of the patients foot. A suction pump, having an associated vacuum sensor and first feedback mechanism, supplies negative pressure to the wound dressing. A ventable source of pressurized gas, having an associated pressure transducer and second feedback mechanism, supplies positive force to the foot wrap. At least one control system is operably associated with the suction pump and ventable source of pressurized gas for controlling the negative and positive applications of pressure to the patient's foot.
  • In preparation for operation, the wound dressing is preferably first applied to the patient's foot followed by application of the foot wrap. Each is then in turn operably connected to its respective pressure source. Specifically, for application of the wound dressing, a porous pad, having plastic tubing inserted therein for connection to the suction pump, is inserted at least partially into the wound at a patient's foot. The wound dressing, and margin of impact surrounding the wound, is then preferably covered with a wound drape. The foot wrap, having fluid connection hardware associated therewith, is then placed in operable position over the wound dressing. Finally, the pad's plastic tubing is placed in fluid communication with the suction pump and the foot wrap's connection hardware is placed in fluid communication with the ventable source of pressurized gas.
  • In operation, negative pressure to the wound dressing is monitored and adjusted as necessary, by an integrated control system, to achieve desired therapy. Similarly, the positive, compressive force delivered to substantially the entire foot through the foot wrap is monitored and adjusted as necessary, also by an integrated control system, to achieve the desired therapy. Also effected by the integrated control system, the application timing of each component therapy is adjustable to allow concurrent application of pneumatic compression therapy and vacuum assisted closure therapy. It is to be understood that such concurrent therapy may entail continuous or intermittent application of one or both therapies and may or may not involve simultaneous application of the therapies.
  • Finally, many other features, objects and advantages of the present invention will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the relevant arts, especially in light of the foregoing discussions and the following drawings, exemplary detailed description and appended claims.
  • BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
  • Although the scope of the present invention is much broader than any particular embodiment, a detailed description of the preferred embodiments follows together with illustrative figures, wherein like reference numerals refer to like components, and wherein:
  • FIG. 1 illustrates, for reference purposes, regions 101-106 of a typical foot 100;
  • FIG. 2 shows, in a schematic block diagram, a first configuration 200 of the preferred embodiment of the present invention;
  • FIG. 3 shows, in perspective view, exemplary foot compression wraps 301, 302 as are utilized in the implementation of the preferred embodiment of the present invention;
  • FIG. 4 shows, in semi-perspective view, an exemplary wound closure dressing 402 and fluid reservoir 401 as are utilized in the implementation of the preferred embodiment of the present invention;
  • FIG. 5 shows, in a schematic block diagram, a second configuration 500 of the preferred embodiment of the present invention;
  • FIGS. 6A and 6B illustrate, in plan view, application, as taught for implementation of the preferred embodiment of the present invention, of a wound closure dressing 402, 404 to a human foot 100;
  • FIGS. 7A-7D illustrate, in perspective view, application, as taught for implementation of the preferred embodiment of the present invention, of a foot compression wrap 301, 302 to a human foot 100; and
  • FIG. 8 shows a wound closure dressing 404 and foot compression wrap 301 as simultaneously applied to a human foot 100 in implementation of the preferred embodiment of the present invention.
  • DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF ILLUSTRATIVE EMBODIMENTS
  • By this reference, the full disclosure of Applicant's U.S. patent application Ser. No. 08/039,574 filed Mar. 23, 1993 and U.S. patent application Ser. No. 08/517,901 filed Aug. 22, 1995, are all incorporated herein as though set forth in their respective entireties.
  • Although those of ordinary skill in the art will readily recognize many alternative embodiments, especially in light of the illustrations provided herein, this detailed description is exemplary of the preferred embodiments of the present invention, the scope of which is limited only by the claims appended hereto.
  • For reference purposes, various regions 101-106 of a typical foot 100 are shown in FIG. 1. Region 101 is referred to as the plantar arch region. Region 104 is referred to as the metatarsal head, or ball, region. Region 105 is referred to as the toe region. Region 106 is referred to as part of the dorsal aspect region. Although these regions are shown as being mutually exclusive, this representation is for purposes of illustration only. It should be understood that one region may overlap another. For example, reference to the heel region 102 is not necessarily confined to that region illustrated in the drawings; the reference may actually include the heel region 102 and overlapping portions of adjacent regions such as the ankle region 101 or plantar arch region 103. The same may be true of references to the metatarsal head 104, or other, regions. Ulcers may occur either centrally or on either side of the foot 100 in any of the regions 101-106 shown; however, clinical evidence has shown that ulcers are more prevalent in the heel region 102 and the forefoot beneath the metatarsal head region 104. A representation location 110 of an ulcer is designated with a dashed margin in FIG. 1, at the bottom of the heel region 102.
  • FIG. 8 illustrates a typical preferred application of the present invention for treating an ulcer, or other wound, at ulcer location 110. Using the various apparatus and methods described further herein, localized negative pressure is induced on a foot 100 at the ulcer location 110 while positive, compressive force is applied to the foot 100. The resulting combination actively stimulates healing at the ulcer site 110 while also promoting healthy circulation of blood and nutrients.
  • Referring to FIGS. 2-4, there is shown a first configuration 200 of a system for therapeutic treatment of foot ulcers such as that shown at the ulcer location 110. This first configuration generally comprises an efficient combination of previously available vacuum assisted closure and intermittent pneumatic compression technologies for concurrent application of positive and negative pressures to an affected foot. According to the first configuration 200 of the preferred embodiment, there is generally provided an intermittent pneumatic compression unit 201 and a vacuum assisted closure unit 202 in operable communication with a single embedded micro-controller unit 203. The micro-controller unit 203 may be implemented in any of a variety of hardware and/or software designs as will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the relevant arts. As will be apparent herein, the micro-controller unit 203 provides a single point of feedback driven control for both the intermittent pneumatic compression unit 201 and the vacuum assisted closure unit 202.
  • The intermittent pneumatic compression unit 201 of the first configuration 200 generally comprises an oscillating air compressor 204 in fluid communication with an air reservoir 205 through a one-way check valve 206. As will be understood further herein, the check valve 206 serves to prevent pneumatic back flow from the air reservoir 205 to the oscillating air compressor 204 during periods in which the air compressor 204 is not in operation. The air reservoir 205 of the preferred embodiment is in fluid and operable communication with one or more foot compression wraps 301, 302 through a series of three-way solenoid valves 207-209, ports 210, 211, connectors 303, 304 and plastic, or other suitable material, tubing 305, 306.
  • Each of the solenoid valves 207-209 of the pneumatic compression unit 201 is chosen to be normally closed (when the coils are not energized) to the air reservoir 205 and normally open (when the coils are not energized) between the foot compression wraps 301, 302 and the atmosphere. When the coils are energized, atmosphere is closed off and a two-way pneumatic flow path is established between the air reservoir 205 and the foot compression wraps 301, 302. Two of the solenoid valves 208, 209 are designated as the left foot solenoid valve 208 and the right foot solenoid valve 209. Through this designation, independent control is maintained for inflation of either the left foot compression wrap 301, the right foot compression wrap 302, or both 301, 302. As will be further understood herein, the third solenoid valve 207 is necessary only in an alternate embodiment of the present invention and, even then, may be dispensed with implementations utilizing solenoid valves 208, 209 having a “no-flow” capability.
  • The vacuum assisted closure unit 202 of the first configuration 200 of the preferred embodiment generally comprises a vacuum pump 212 in fluid communication with a fluid reservoir 401 through a dryer filter 214. An intake vent 213 is provided for connection, through appropriate tubing 403, of a porous foam dressing 402 to be inserted into a patient's wound 110, as will be understood further herein. The dryer filter 214 serves to protect the vacuum pump 212, which is not readily decontaminated, from the potentially hazardous or infectious wastes drawn from the wound site 110. A port 215 is provided for releasable connection to the fluid reservoir 401 in order that the reservoir 401 may be removed and discarded when full.
  • Various sensors are provided to promote safety in the operation of the system 200. For example, a mercury activated tilt sensor 216 indicates attitudes in which there is a danger of spilling fluids from the reservoir 401, a push-button interlock switch 217 in the back of the reservoir pot indicates improper or incomplete placement of the reservoir 401, and a capacitively-activated level sensor 218 indicates a full condition of the reservoir 401. Feedback from any of these sensors 217-219 will cause termination of vacuum pump 212 operation, as will be understood herein. Those of ordinary skill in the art will quickly recognize that many other safety features may be integrated into the system 200 as desired.
  • Further details as to the construction and operation of the intermittent pneumatic compression unit 201, including the foot compression wraps 301, 302, may be gleaned from Applicant's U.S. patent application Ser. No. 08/039,574 filed Mar. 23, 1993 which has been incorporated herein by reference. Details as to the construction and operation of the vacuum assisted closure 202 may be gleaned from Applicant's U.S. patent application Ser. No. 08/517,901 filed Aug. 22, 1995 which also has been incorporated herein by reference. Those products embodying the foregoing applications, commercially available from Kinetic Concepts, Inc. of San Antonio, Tex. under the trade designations “PLEXIPULSE” and “V.A.C.” are presently preferred by Applicant for implementation of this present invention. It is to be understood, however, that many other intermittent pneumatic compression and vacuum assisted closure products, as well as products for sequential therapy, wound drainage and other related therapies, are also presently available. Most all of these products should be considered functional equivalents for implementation of this present invention.
  • According to the preferred embodiment of the present invention, there is provided a single embedded micro-controller unit 203 for operation of both the intermittent pneumatic compression unit 201 and the vacuum assisted closure unit 202. The micro-controller unit 203, intermittent pneumatic compression unit 201 and vacuum assisted closure unit 202 all receive electrical power through a conventional wall plug 219 fitted with a hospital grade EMI/RFI filter, fuse and switch unit 220. A power supply 222 is provided with the micro-controller unit 203 for conversion of alternating current to direct current at an appropriate voltage level for the integrated circuitry and displays 229, 230 present on the unit 203. The micro-controller unit 203 is fitted with a conventional variable speed cooling fan 221, as is known in the art.
  • Additionally, the micro-controller unit 203 is provided with a solenoid valve control circuit 223, a compressor control circuit 224, a vacuum pump speed control circuit 225, a vacuum pump control circuit 226, a pressure sensor 227 and a vacuum sensor 228. Each circuit 223-226 of the unit 203 is operatively connected, directly or indirectly, to the system components being controlled and the various sensors 227, 228 upon which operation of the system components is based. In operation, the solenoid valve control circuit 223 opens or closes the left and/or right solenoid valves 208, 209 according to a predetermining timing cycle in order to intermittently apply positive forces to substantially all, but in particular the plantar region 103, of the patient's foot 100.
  • In a preferred mode referred to as the “equilibrium mode,” the oscillating air compressor 204 fills the air reservoir 205 to an automatically determinable target pressure, typically in the range of 350 mm Hg as measured by the pressure sensor 227. Once the pressure within the air reservoir 205 reaches the target pressure, the compressor 204 is shut off under the control of the compressor control circuit 224. Upon release of the compressed air into the left and/or right foot compression wraps 301, 302, an equilibrium pressure is reached between the air reservoir 204 and the wraps 301, 302. This equilibrium pressure, typically in the range of 160 mm Hg, is then measured by the pressure sensor 227 whereby an accurate indication of the actual pressure delivered to the plantar region arch 103 is obtained. The compressor control circuit 224 of the micro-controller unit 203 is then able to make use of this measurement to adjust, for subsequent compression cycles, the pressure of the air initially delivered to the air reservoir 205. Through this compression cycle-by-compression cycle adjustment scheme, the actual force applied to the patient's plantar region 103 may be robustly and accurately controlled, largely independent of wrap placement, changes in swelling or edema, of patient movements. Finally, at the end of the compression cycle and under the control of the solenoid valve control circuit 223, air is exhausted from the left and/or right foot compression wraps 301, 302, to the atmosphere, through the left and/or right solenoid valves 208, 209.
  • Alternatively, a third solenoid valve 207 may be incorporated to implement a timed-mode embodiment of the present invention. In this alternate embodiment, the oscillating air compressor 204 may operate continuously, the pressure ultimately delivered to the plantar regions 103 being controlled by the timed opening and closing of the third solenoid valve 207. According to the timed-mode embodiment, the air reservoir 205 is filled to the extent of the air compressor's capability, typically in the range of 800-900 mm Hg. Measurement of the initial pressure within the air reservoir is not necessary, so long as a relatively high pressure may be obtained within the capability of the air compressor 204. In operation, the solenoid valve control circuit 223 opens or closes the left and/or right solenoid valves 208, 209 in order to pre-select either the left or right foot, or both feet, for application of positive forces to the corresponding plantar regions 103. Substantially concurrent with the left and/or right foot selection, the solenoid valve control circuit 223 opens, for a short period of time, and then closes the third solenoid valve 207, causing a substantially impulsive burst of air to be released from the air reservoir 205 into the left and/or right foot compression wraps 301, 302. Following closure of the third solenoid valve 207, the pressure sensor 223 measures the pressure of the air released into the left and/or right foot compression wraps 301, 302. If necessary in order to achieve the desired compression wrap pressure, the open time of the third solenoid valve 207 may then be increased or decreased for subsequent compression cycles. Alternatively, the solenoid valve control circuit 223 may be implemented to produce only very short bursts of air from the air reservoir 205 into the foot compression cycle, and/or the time there between, may be increased or decreased during the present compression cycle, or in subsequent compression cycles, in response to the measured pressure in the foot compression wraps 301, 302. Like the equilibrium mode embodiment, the time-mode embodiment provides a compression cycle-by-compression cycle adjustment scheme by which the actual force applied to the patient's plantar region 103 may be robustly and accurately controlled, largely independent of wrap placement, changes in swelling or edema, or patient movements. Finally, at the end of the compression cycle and under the control of the solenoid valve control circuit 223, air is exhausted from the left and/or right foot compression wraps 301, 302, to the atmosphere, through the left and/or right solenoid valves 208, 209.
  • In further modification of the timed-mode embodiment, it is possible to dispense with the third solenoid valve 207 in favor of utilizing left and right solenoid valves 208, 209 having an intermediate “no-flow” capability. According to this modification, the left and right solenoid valves 208, 209 are normally closed (when the coils are not energized) between the foot compression wraps 301, 302 and both the air reservoir 205 and the atmosphere, i.e. are in a “no-flow” state. Short bursts of air are then delivered from the air reservoir 205 to the left and/or right foot compression wraps 301, 302, according to the foregoing timed-mode methods, by toggling the left and/or right solenoid valves 208, 209 between their no-flow states and their states of open flow between the air reservoir 205 and respective wrap 301, 302. At the end of the compression cycle, air is exhausted from the wraps 301, 302 by opening the flow paths to the atmosphere. Although technologically feasible, such solenoid valves are not as of this date readily available; therefore, the three-valve implementation of the timed-mode embodiment is presently preferred over the two-valve implementation of the timed-mode embodiment.
  • In further operation, the negative pressure induced by the vacuum pump 212 is measured by a vacuum sensor 228 in fluid communication with the fluid reservoir 401 through an interposed orifice restrictor 231. The restrictor 231 serves to protect the vacuum sensor 228 from the relatively large negative pressures necessary in the treatment process as these pressures are typically too excessive for direct measurement under presently available sensor technologies. Vacuum feedback is monitored by the vacuum pump control circuits 226 to adjust the speed, through the vacuum pump speed control circuit 225, of the vacuum pump's motor in order to increase or decrease delivered vacuum. Additionally, the vacuum pump control circuit 226 monitors the various safety features 216-218 of the vacuum assisted closure unit 202 in order to effect shut down of the system 200 in the event of a hazardous condition.
  • Finally, all operations may be monitored through a liquid crystal display (LCD) readout 229 and/or light emitting diode (LED) display bar 230. Other feedback mechanisms, such as computer interfaces and others known to those of ordinary skill in the art, may be incorporated as desired. All such user interfaces are considered within the scope of the present invention.
  • In a second configuration 500 of the preferred embodiment, shown in FIG. 6, the oscillating air compressor 204 and the vacuum pump 212 are replaced by a single integrated compressor and vacuum pump unit 501 having internally thereto two separate plenums 502, 203. Operation is identical to that of the first configuration 200, with the exception that instead of speed control of the motors of the compressor 204 and vacuum pump 212, a clutch mechanism similar to that of automobile air conditioning units is utilized. Such mechanisms are readily understood by those of ordinary skill in the art. In essence, the appropriate control circuits 224, 225 generate pulse streams by which the respective clutch mechanisms are activated in pulse width modulated fashion.
  • Referring to FIGS. 6A and 6B, there is shown the typical application of a wound closure dressing 402 to an example ulcer 110. Following debridement of necrotic tissue in and around the wound site 110, a porous foam dressing 402, having inserted therein tubing 403 for establishing fluid communication with the vacuum assisted closure unit 202, is inserted into the site 100. The porous foam dressing 402 and tubing 403 are anchored, and substantially sealed, within the wound site 110 by a covering of adhesive drape 404. The drape 404 physically covers the wound site 110 as well as the margin of impact 601 surrounding the wound site 110. A typical application, therefore, has a diameter of approximately four to eight inches, as measured if the drape 404 was laid flat.
  • In operation, the vacuum assisted closure unit 202 applies negative pressure, through the tubing 403, to the ulcer site 110. The porous foam dressing 402 serves to promote distribution of this negative pressure throughout the ulcer site 110. As a result, this distribution may be considered substantially uniform. The adhesive drape 404, itself or in concert with such other provisions as may be implemented by caregivers, serves to provide a seal around the wound site 110. This seal provides infection control for the wound while also minimizing leaks of the negative pressures applied thereto.
  • Referring now to FIGS. 7A-7D, there is shown the application of a foot compression wrap 301 to a foot 100. As shown particularly in FIG. 7A, the wrap 301 is first laid flat, generally beneath the heel, plantar arch and metatarsal head regions 102-104 of the foot 100. Then, as shown in FIG. 7B, a first tab 702 is wrapped about the dorsal aspect region 106 of the foot 100. A second tab 703, as shown in FIG. 7C, is next also wrapped about the dorsal aspect region 106 of the foot 100. A second tab 703, as shown in FIG. 7C, is next also wrapped about the dorsal aspect region 106 of the foot 100 and secured to the outside of the first tab 702 by conventional securing means such as, for example, releasably engageable hook and loop type material as is known by those of ordinary skill in the art and commercially available under the trademark “VELCRO.” In the preferred embodiment of the present invention, a trademark “VELCRO” type patch 704 of hook-type material engages the outer surface of the wrap 301 which comprises hook compatible loop-type material. Finally, as shown in FIGS. 7C and 7D, a third tab 705 is wrapped about the ankle region 101 of the foot 100 and secured over the dorsal aspect region 106 by a tab 706 of hook-type material. As can be seen with reference to FIGS. 7A-7D, it is a specific object of such a foot compression wrap to cover a substantial portion of the foot with the inflatable bladder 701 integral thereto. In accordance with this object, both the deep and peripheral veins in the foot are compressed by operation of the intermittent pneumatic compression unit 201. This enables virtually complete emptying, on an intermittent basis, of the blood in the foot 100 to which the wrap 301, 302 is applied.
  • As clearly shown in FIG. 8, depicting the foot 100 with both the porous wound dressing 402, with drape 404, and the foot compression wrap 301 in operable position, portions of the heel region 102 and toe region 105 are not covered by the foot compression wrap 301 notwithstanding the object of compressing substantially the entire foot 100. This serves to enable viewing, by caregivers, of the exposed portions of the toe region 105 and heel region 102 for the purposes of assessing the health of the foot 100 while the foot compression therapy is ongoing. This also readies skin on the foot 100 to minimize accumulation of moisture and the attendant risks of maceration.
  • In implementing the present invention, the wound closure dressing 402, 404 is applied first, in its entirety, and then the foot compression wrap 301 is applied. Due to the varying locations of ulcers on the foot 100, application of the foot compression wrap 301 may overlap the wound dressing site 601. Many applications within the scope of the present invention will also involve lapping the inflatable bladder 701 of the foot compression wrap 301 over the actual ulcer site 110. In such applications, the foam dressing 402 also serves the added function of helping to cushion the actual ulcer site 110 from the comprehensive action of the foot compression wrap 301. As shown in FIG. 8, the foot compression wrap 301 may overlap a portion of the ulcer site 110 to an extent that the inflatable bladder of the foot compression wrap 301 applies a compressive force over and onto the ulcer site 110.
  • Once the wound closure dressing 402 is operatively situated on an ulcer site 110 on the foot 100 of the patient and the foot compression wrap 301 or 302 is applied over the wound closure dressing 402 and its drape 404, the foot compression wrap 301 is then operatively connected to the intermittent pneumatic compression unit 201 and the wound dressing 402 is operatively connected to the vacuum assisted closure unit 202. Vacuum assisted closure therapy and intermittent pneumatic foot compression therapy can then be concurrently implemented, i.e., either simultaneously or in some indefinitely repeated cycle between positive and negative applications during which, it is to be understood, temporal overlap of positive and negative applications may or may not occur.
  • In the preferred embodiment of the present invention, the vacuum assisted closure unit 202 is provided with various settings for both intermittent and continuous application of negative pressure to the wound closure dressing 402. The most preferred selection of therapy options, i.e., intermittent or continuous vacuum, has not been determined at this time, although it is contemplated that either setting may be applicable. In any case, typical implementation of the invention will involve some periods of time during which negative pressure is actually applied to the ulcer site 110 notwithstanding the substantially concurrent application of compressive forces via the foot compression wrap 301, 302.
  • In a second mode of application of the present invention, the applications of positive and negative pressures are timed such that negative pressure is applied to the ulcer site 110 over a first period of time and positive pressure is then applied to substantially the entire foot 100 over a second period of time. Such alternating applications of negative pressure and positive pressure over the corresponding regions of the foot are then repeated indefinitely for the duration of the therapy.
  • While the foregoing description is exemplary of the preferred embodiments of the present invention, those of ordinary skill in the relevant arts will recognize the many variations, alterations, modifications, substitutions and the like as are readily possible, especially in light of this description, the accompanying drawings and claims drawn thereto. For example, while the preferred embodiment of the present invention calls for implementation of the intermittent pneumatic compression unit 201 and the vacuum assisted closure unit 202 in a single integrated unit 200, 500, those of ordinary skill in the art will recognize that, in the alternative, the present invention may be practiced, with only some corresponding loss in efficiency, with separate units for provision of intermittent compression therapy and vacuum assisted closure therapy. Such individual units are readily available and exemplary ones are described in detail in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 08/039,574 filed Mar. 23, 1993 and U.S. patent application Ser. No. 08/517,901 filed Aug. 22, 1995, each of which has been incorporated herein by reference. Products embodying each of these applications are commercially available from Kinetic Concepts, Inc. of San Antonio, Tex. under the trade designations “PLEXIPULSE” and “V.A.C.” In such an alternate embodiment, calling for separate therapy units, synchronization of the therapy timing may be provided by interface circuitry, manual adjustment of the individual units or any number of other techniques readily available to those of ordinary skill in the relevant arts. Further, other modifications, such as the provision of independent, switched control of the intermittent pneumatic compression unit 201 and vacuum assisted closure unit 202 within the single integrated unit 200, 500, should be considered design expedients, within the scope of the present invention, especially in light of the foregoing exemplary description and appended claims. In any case, because the scope of the present invention is much broader than any particular embodiment, the foregoing detailed description should not be construed as a limitation of the scope of the present invention, which is limited only by the claims appended hereto.

Claims (20)

1. A therapeutic apparatus for treating ulcers, the apparatus comprising:
an intermittent pneumatic compression unit comprising an oscillating air compressor fluidly connected to an air reservoir through a one-way check valve;
a compression wrap fluidly connected to the air reservoir through a three-way valve;
a vacuum assisted closure unit comprising a vacuum pump fluidly connected to a porous foam dressing through an intake vent; and
a single micro-controller unit comprising a three-way valve control circuit operably connected to the three-way valve, a compressor control circuit operably connected to the compression unit, a vacuum pump speed control circuit operably connected to the vacuum pump, a vacuum pump control circuit operably connected to the vacuum pump, a pressure sensor operably connected between the air reservoir and the compression wrap, and a vacuum sensor operably connected between the vacuum pump and the porous foam dressing;
whereby the micro-controller unit is operable to cause the compression unit to supply compressive force to the compression wrap and to cause the vacuum assisted closure unit to supply a vacuum to the porous foam dressing.
2. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the micro-controller unit is programmed to supply compressive force to the compression wrap until reaching an equilibrium pressure between the compression unit and the compression wrap.
3. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the compression wrap is adapted to be wrapped around a foot having a toe region and a heel region, without covering the toe region or the heel region.
4. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the compression wrap has an inflatable bladder to be placed over a region external to a wound.
5. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the vacuum sensor measures pressure supplied to the porous foam dressing.
6. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the porous foam dressing is adapted to be positioned adjacent a wound.
7. The apparatus of claim 6, further comprising a drape for covering said porous foam dressing.
8. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the micro-controller unit provides a single point feedback control of said vacuum assisted closure unit and said intermittent pneumatic compression unit.
9. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the intermittent pneumatic compression unit applies the compressive force to the compression wrap intermittently.
10. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the compression wrap comprises a plurality of compression wraps, and wherein each of the plurality of compression wraps is connected to the air reservoir.
11. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the one-way check valve prevents pneumatic back flow from the air reservoir to the oscillating air compressor.
12. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the three-way valve is a three-way solenoid valve.
13. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the vacuum pump is in fluid communication with a fluid reservoir through a dryer filter.
14. The apparatus of claim 13, further comprising a capacitively-activated level sensor that indicates a full condition of the fluid reservoir.
15. The apparatus of claim 13, wherein the fluid reservoir is releasably connected to the vacuum pump via a port.
16. The apparatus of claim 13, wherein the vacuum sensor is in fluid communication with the fluid reservoir via an orifice restrictor.
17. The apparatus of claim 13, further comprising a push-button interlock switch that indicates incomplete placement of the fluid reservoir.
18. The apparatus of claim 1, further comprising a tilt sensor in communication with the micro-controller unit.
19. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the three-way valve control circuit is a solenoid valve control circuit.
20. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the oscillating air compressor and the vacuum pump are integrated into an integrated compressor and vacuum pump unit.
US12/617,598 1997-07-28 2009-11-12 Therapeutic apparatus for treating ulcers Abandoned US20100121230A1 (en)

Priority Applications (1)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
US12/617,598 US20100121230A1 (en) 1997-07-28 2009-11-12 Therapeutic apparatus for treating ulcers

Applications Claiming Priority (5)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
US5390297P 1997-07-28 1997-07-28
US08/903,026 US6135116A (en) 1997-07-28 1997-07-30 Therapeutic method for treating ulcers
US09/458,280 US7214202B1 (en) 1997-07-28 1999-12-10 Therapeutic apparatus for treating ulcers
US11/365,433 US7618382B2 (en) 1997-07-28 2006-03-01 Therapeutic apparatus for treating ulcers by applying positive and/or negative pressures
US12/617,598 US20100121230A1 (en) 1997-07-28 2009-11-12 Therapeutic apparatus for treating ulcers

Related Parent Applications (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
US11/365,433 Continuation US7618382B2 (en) 1997-07-28 2006-03-01 Therapeutic apparatus for treating ulcers by applying positive and/or negative pressures

Publications (1)

Publication Number Publication Date
US20100121230A1 true US20100121230A1 (en) 2010-05-13

Family

ID=38000964

Family Applications (3)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
US09/458,280 Expired - Fee Related US7214202B1 (en) 1997-07-28 1999-12-10 Therapeutic apparatus for treating ulcers
US11/365,433 Expired - Fee Related US7618382B2 (en) 1997-07-28 2006-03-01 Therapeutic apparatus for treating ulcers by applying positive and/or negative pressures
US12/617,598 Abandoned US20100121230A1 (en) 1997-07-28 2009-11-12 Therapeutic apparatus for treating ulcers

Family Applications Before (2)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
US09/458,280 Expired - Fee Related US7214202B1 (en) 1997-07-28 1999-12-10 Therapeutic apparatus for treating ulcers
US11/365,433 Expired - Fee Related US7618382B2 (en) 1997-07-28 2006-03-01 Therapeutic apparatus for treating ulcers by applying positive and/or negative pressures

Country Status (1)

Country Link
US (3) US7214202B1 (en)

Cited By (17)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US20090048649A1 (en) * 2007-08-16 2009-02-19 Gaymar Industries, Inc. Heat transfer device: seal and thermal energy contact units
US20100210982A1 (en) * 2006-04-11 2010-08-19 Niran Balachandran Method And System For Providing Segmental Gradient Compression
US20110077723A1 (en) * 2003-07-18 2011-03-31 Thermotek, Inc. Compression sequenced thermal therapy system
US8460355B2 (en) 2007-04-05 2013-06-11 Stryker Corporation Negative/positive pressure, thermal energy therapy device
WO2013162728A1 (en) * 2012-04-24 2013-10-31 Thermotek, Inc. Method and system for therapeutic use of ultra-violet light
US8574278B2 (en) 2006-05-09 2013-11-05 Thermotek, Inc. Wound care method and system with one or both of vacuum-light therapy and thermally augmented oxygenation
US8632576B2 (en) 2006-05-09 2014-01-21 Thermotek, Inc. Wound care method and system with one or both of vacuum-light therapy and thermally augmented oxygenation
US8758419B1 (en) 2008-01-31 2014-06-24 Thermotek, Inc. Contact cooler for skin cooling applications
US8778005B2 (en) 2003-07-18 2014-07-15 Thermotek, Inc. Method and system for thermal and compression therapy relative to the prevention of deep vein thrombosis
US9119705B2 (en) 1998-06-08 2015-09-01 Thermotek, Inc. Method and system for thermal and compression therapy relative to the prevention of deep vein thrombosis
WO2017040680A1 (en) * 2015-08-31 2017-03-09 Massachusetts Institute Of Technology Systems and methods for tissue stiffness measurements
US9669233B2 (en) 2013-11-11 2017-06-06 Thermotek, Inc. Method and system for wound care
US10016583B2 (en) 2013-03-11 2018-07-10 Thermotek, Inc. Wound care and infusion method and system utilizing a thermally-treated therapeutic agent
US10300180B1 (en) 2013-03-11 2019-05-28 Thermotek, Inc. Wound care and infusion method and system utilizing a therapeutic agent
US10512587B2 (en) 2011-07-27 2019-12-24 Thermotek, Inc. Method and apparatus for scalp thermal treatment
US10765785B2 (en) 2004-07-19 2020-09-08 Thermotek, Inc. Wound care and infusion method and system utilizing a therapeutic agent
US11614170B2 (en) 2015-07-29 2023-03-28 Innovative Therapies, Llc Wound therapy device pressure monitoring and control system

Families Citing this family (201)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US7214202B1 (en) * 1997-07-28 2007-05-08 Kci Licensing, Inc. Therapeutic apparatus for treating ulcers
US6458109B1 (en) 1998-08-07 2002-10-01 Hill-Rom Services, Inc. Wound treatment apparatus
GB9909301D0 (en) * 1999-04-22 1999-06-16 Kci Medical Ltd Wound treatment apparatus employing reduced pressure
US6764462B2 (en) 2000-11-29 2004-07-20 Hill-Rom Services Inc. Wound treatment apparatus
US6824533B2 (en) 2000-11-29 2004-11-30 Hill-Rom Services, Inc. Wound treatment apparatus
AU2001261595A1 (en) 2000-05-22 2001-12-03 Arthur C. Coffey Combination sis and vacuum bandage and method
US6685681B2 (en) 2000-11-29 2004-02-03 Hill-Rom Services, Inc. Vacuum therapy and cleansing dressing for wounds
US6855135B2 (en) 2000-11-29 2005-02-15 Hill-Rom Services, Inc. Vacuum therapy and cleansing dressing for wounds
EP1450878A1 (en) 2001-10-11 2004-09-01 Hill-Rom Services, Inc. Waste container for negative pressure therapy
EP1478313B2 (en) 2001-12-26 2018-03-07 KCI Medical Resources Vented vacuum bandage
EP1476217B1 (en) 2001-12-26 2008-03-05 Hill-Rom Services, Inc. Vacuum bandage packing
AU2002359830A1 (en) 2001-12-26 2003-07-24 Hill-Rom Services, Inc. Wound vacuum therapy dressing kit
WO2003086232A2 (en) 2002-04-10 2003-10-23 Hill-Rom Services, Inc. Access openings in vacuum bandage
US8439893B2 (en) * 2002-06-11 2013-05-14 Medela Holding Ag System and method for efficient drainage of body cavity
EP2545946B1 (en) 2002-08-21 2016-11-16 KCI Medical Resources Wound packing for preventing wound closure
US7846141B2 (en) 2002-09-03 2010-12-07 Bluesky Medical Group Incorporated Reduced pressure treatment system
GB0224986D0 (en) 2002-10-28 2002-12-04 Smith & Nephew Apparatus
US7169151B1 (en) * 2003-04-10 2007-01-30 Kci Licensing, Inc. Bone regeneration device for long bones, and method of use
US8444611B2 (en) 2003-07-22 2013-05-21 Kci Licensing, Inc. Negative pressure wound treatment dressing
US20100210986A1 (en) * 2003-07-22 2010-08-19 Sanders T Blane Negative pressure wound treatment dressings and systems
GB0325129D0 (en) 2003-10-28 2003-12-03 Smith & Nephew Apparatus in situ
US7871387B2 (en) 2004-02-23 2011-01-18 Tyco Healthcare Group Lp Compression sleeve convertible in length
US8100887B2 (en) 2004-03-09 2012-01-24 Bluesky Medical Group Incorporated Enclosure-based reduced pressure treatment system
CA2561854A1 (en) * 2004-04-02 2005-10-20 The Regents Of The University Of California Device and systems for the intermittent drainage of urine and other biological fluids
US10058642B2 (en) 2004-04-05 2018-08-28 Bluesky Medical Group Incorporated Reduced pressure treatment system
US7909805B2 (en) 2004-04-05 2011-03-22 Bluesky Medical Group Incorporated Flexible reduced pressure treatment appliance
US8062272B2 (en) 2004-05-21 2011-11-22 Bluesky Medical Group Incorporated Flexible reduced pressure treatment appliance
GB0508528D0 (en) * 2005-04-27 2005-06-01 Smith & Nephew SAI with macrostress
GB0409446D0 (en) 2004-04-28 2004-06-02 Smith & Nephew Apparatus
US7753894B2 (en) 2004-04-27 2010-07-13 Smith & Nephew Plc Wound cleansing apparatus with stress
US7998125B2 (en) 2004-05-21 2011-08-16 Bluesky Medical Group Incorporated Hypobaric chamber treatment system
US20080097263A1 (en) * 2005-04-12 2008-04-24 Grigoriev Anatoly I Device for mechanical stimulation of the foot support areas
US7896825B2 (en) * 2005-06-17 2011-03-01 Bridgepoint Medical, Inc. Medical compression devices and methods
GB0515294D0 (en) 2005-07-26 2005-08-31 Novamedix Distrib Ltd Limited durability closure means for an inflatable medical garment
WO2007030601A2 (en) 2005-09-06 2007-03-15 Tyco Healthcare Group Lp Self contained wound dressing with micropump
US8029451B2 (en) 2005-12-12 2011-10-04 Tyco Healthcare Group Lp Compression sleeve having air conduits
US7896823B2 (en) * 2006-01-17 2011-03-01 Theranova, Llc Method and apparatus for treating wound using negative pressure therapy
US20110295168A1 (en) * 2006-01-17 2011-12-01 Theranova, Llc Method and apparatus for negative pressure therapy
US7779625B2 (en) 2006-05-11 2010-08-24 Kalypto Medical, Inc. Device and method for wound therapy
US7933817B2 (en) * 2006-06-14 2011-04-26 Boehringer Technologies, L.P. Billing method for pump usage
CA2604623C (en) 2006-09-28 2018-10-30 Tyco Healthcare Group Lp Portable wound therapy system
US7931651B2 (en) 2006-11-17 2011-04-26 Wake Lake University Health Sciences External fixation assembly and method of use
JP5226002B2 (en) * 2006-11-20 2013-07-03 プロメドテック インコーポレイテッド Instrument for the treatment of severe diabetic ulcer
US8377016B2 (en) 2007-01-10 2013-02-19 Wake Forest University Health Sciences Apparatus and method for wound treatment employing periodic sub-atmospheric pressure
US7758476B2 (en) * 2007-02-06 2010-07-20 Fitness Botics Inflatable cushion bag for striking
CN101605519B (en) 2007-02-09 2013-05-22 凯希特许有限公司 Breathable interface system for topical pressure reducing
US8162861B2 (en) 2007-04-09 2012-04-24 Tyco Healthcare Group Lp Compression device with strategic weld construction
US8128584B2 (en) 2007-04-09 2012-03-06 Tyco Healthcare Group Lp Compression device with S-shaped bladder
US8016778B2 (en) 2007-04-09 2011-09-13 Tyco Healthcare Group Lp Compression device with improved moisture evaporation
US8016779B2 (en) 2007-04-09 2011-09-13 Tyco Healthcare Group Lp Compression device having cooling capability
US8070699B2 (en) 2007-04-09 2011-12-06 Tyco Healthcare Group Lp Method of making compression sleeve with structural support features
US8021388B2 (en) 2007-04-09 2011-09-20 Tyco Healthcare Group Lp Compression device with improved moisture evaporation
USD608006S1 (en) 2007-04-09 2010-01-12 Tyco Healthcare Group Lp Compression device
US8109892B2 (en) 2007-04-09 2012-02-07 Tyco Healthcare Group Lp Methods of making compression device with improved evaporation
US8029450B2 (en) 2007-04-09 2011-10-04 Tyco Healthcare Group Lp Breathable compression device
US8506508B2 (en) 2007-04-09 2013-08-13 Covidien Lp Compression device having weld seam moisture transfer
US8034007B2 (en) 2007-04-09 2011-10-11 Tyco Healthcare Group Lp Compression device with structural support features
GB0712757D0 (en) * 2007-07-02 2007-08-08 Smith & Nephew Pressure control
US9408954B2 (en) 2007-07-02 2016-08-09 Smith & Nephew Plc Systems and methods for controlling operation of negative pressure wound therapy apparatus
GB0712760D0 (en) 2007-07-02 2007-08-08 Smith & Nephew Status indication
GB0712763D0 (en) 2007-07-02 2007-08-08 Smith & Nephew Apparatus
US7790946B2 (en) * 2007-07-06 2010-09-07 Tyco Healthcare Group Lp Subatmospheric pressure wound therapy dressing
BRPI0817544A2 (en) 2007-10-10 2017-05-02 Univ Wake Forest Health Sciences apparatus for treating damaged spinal cord tissue
US20090124944A1 (en) * 2007-11-13 2009-05-14 Sundaram Ravikumar Method and Assembly for Treating Venous Ulcers and Wounds
US7743796B1 (en) * 2007-11-15 2010-06-29 Schooley Bruce A Bottle neck vacuum pump
GB0722820D0 (en) 2007-11-21 2008-01-02 Smith & Nephew Vacuum assisted wound dressing
CA2705898C (en) 2007-11-21 2020-08-25 Smith & Nephew Plc Wound dressing
JP5613566B2 (en) * 2007-11-21 2014-10-22 スミス アンド ネフュー ピーエルシーSmith & Nephew Public Limited Company Wound dressing
ES2555204T3 (en) 2007-11-21 2015-12-29 T.J. Smith & Nephew Limited Suction and bandage device
US20130096518A1 (en) 2007-12-06 2013-04-18 Smith & Nephew Plc Wound filling apparatuses and methods
US11253399B2 (en) 2007-12-06 2022-02-22 Smith & Nephew Plc Wound filling apparatuses and methods
US9717896B2 (en) 2007-12-18 2017-08-01 Gearbox, Llc Treatment indications informed by a priori implant information
US20090287120A1 (en) 2007-12-18 2009-11-19 Searete Llc, A Limited Liability Corporation Of The State Of Delaware Circulatory monitoring systems and methods
US8636670B2 (en) 2008-05-13 2014-01-28 The Invention Science Fund I, Llc Circulatory monitoring systems and methods
US8377017B2 (en) 2008-01-03 2013-02-19 Kci Licensing, Inc. Low-profile reduced pressure treatment system
JP5645669B2 (en) 2008-01-08 2014-12-24 ブルースカイ・メディカル・グループ・インコーポレーテッド Persistent variable negative pressure wound therapy and its control
JP5925990B2 (en) 2008-01-09 2016-05-25 ウェイク・フォレスト・ユニヴァーシティ・ヘルス・サイエンシズ Device for treating damaged central nervous system tissue
US20090204037A1 (en) * 2008-02-12 2009-08-13 Sundaram Ravikumar Compression Apparatus for Applying Intermittent Pressure to the Leg
US8298200B2 (en) 2009-06-01 2012-10-30 Tyco Healthcare Group Lp System for providing continual drainage in negative pressure wound therapy
US8021347B2 (en) 2008-07-21 2011-09-20 Tyco Healthcare Group Lp Thin film wound dressing
WO2009114624A2 (en) * 2008-03-12 2009-09-17 Bluesky Medical Group Inc. Negative pressure dressing and method of using same
CN101959544B (en) 2008-03-13 2013-11-06 凯希特许有限公司 Offloading and reduced-pressure treatment systems and methods
US8152785B2 (en) 2008-03-13 2012-04-10 Tyco Healthcare Group Lp Vacuum port for vacuum wound therapy
US8114117B2 (en) 2008-09-30 2012-02-14 Tyco Healthcare Group Lp Compression device with wear area
US7825289B2 (en) * 2008-05-16 2010-11-02 Tyco Healthcare Group Lp Wound dressing adhesive compression device
US8048046B2 (en) 2008-05-21 2011-11-01 Tyco Healthcare Group Lp Wound therapy system with housing and canister support
US8007481B2 (en) 2008-07-17 2011-08-30 Tyco Healthcare Group Lp Subatmospheric pressure mechanism for wound therapy system
US8177763B2 (en) 2008-09-05 2012-05-15 Tyco Healthcare Group Lp Canister membrane for wound therapy system
US8414519B2 (en) 2008-05-21 2013-04-09 Covidien Lp Wound therapy system with portable container apparatus
US10912869B2 (en) 2008-05-21 2021-02-09 Smith & Nephew, Inc. Wound therapy system with related methods therefor
US8187237B2 (en) 2008-05-30 2012-05-29 Kci Licensing, Inc Reduced-pressure, linear wound closing bolsters and systems
BRPI0909570A2 (en) * 2008-05-30 2015-12-01 Kci Licensing Inc reduced pressure system for treating a linear wound in a patient, system for treating a linear wound in a patient, method of manufacturing a system for treating a linear wound in a patient
JP5538380B2 (en) * 2008-06-26 2014-07-02 ケーシーアイ ライセンシング インコーポレイテッド Stimulation of chondrogenesis using decompression therapy and chondrocytes
US8257326B2 (en) * 2008-06-30 2012-09-04 Tyco Healthcare Group Lp Apparatus for enhancing wound healing
CA2729308C (en) 2008-07-08 2016-11-22 Tyco Healthcare Group Lp Portable negative pressure wound therapy device
US9439828B2 (en) 2008-07-08 2016-09-13 Avex, L.L.C. Foot compression system
AU2009268641B2 (en) 2008-07-08 2016-02-25 Avex, Llc Foot compression system
KR20100007548A (en) * 2008-07-14 2010-01-22 주식회사 바이오알파 Medical suction head
CN102159139A (en) 2008-07-18 2011-08-17 韦克福里斯特大学健康科学院 Apparatus and method for cardiac tissue modulation by topical application of vacuum to minimize cell death and damage
DK2309961T3 (en) 2008-08-08 2018-03-12 Smith & Nephew Inc Wound dressing of continuous fibers
US20100042028A1 (en) * 2008-08-14 2010-02-18 Albahealth, LLC Foot wrap with inflatable bladder
US8827983B2 (en) 2008-08-21 2014-09-09 Smith & Nephew, Inc. Sensor with electrical contact protection for use in fluid collection canister and negative pressure wound therapy systems including same
US8251979B2 (en) 2009-05-11 2012-08-28 Tyco Healthcare Group Lp Orientation independent canister for a negative pressure wound therapy device
US8216198B2 (en) 2009-01-09 2012-07-10 Tyco Healthcare Group Lp Canister for receiving wound exudate in a negative pressure therapy system
US9414968B2 (en) 2008-09-05 2016-08-16 Smith & Nephew, Inc. Three-dimensional porous film contact layer with improved wound healing
US8235923B2 (en) 2008-09-30 2012-08-07 Tyco Healthcare Group Lp Compression device with removable portion
US8158844B2 (en) 2008-10-08 2012-04-17 Kci Licensing, Inc. Limited-access, reduced-pressure systems and methods
US8052624B2 (en) * 2008-10-29 2011-11-08 Stryker Corporation Negative pressure, thermal energy transfer device that also provides positive pressure to the patient
US20100331761A1 (en) * 2009-01-21 2010-12-30 The Cleveland Clinic Foundation Apparatus and Method for Dermatological Wound Healing
US20100150991A1 (en) * 2008-12-15 2010-06-17 Bernstein Brent H Combination Wound Therapy
SG172010A1 (en) * 2008-12-30 2011-07-28 Kci Licensing Inc Reduced pressure augmentation of microfracture procedures for cartilage repair
AU2009335119B9 (en) 2008-12-31 2015-08-20 Solventum Intellectual Properties Company System for providing fluid flow to nerve tissues
US8162907B2 (en) * 2009-01-20 2012-04-24 Tyco Healthcare Group Lp Method and apparatus for bridging from a dressing in negative pressure wound therapy
US8246591B2 (en) 2009-01-23 2012-08-21 Tyco Healthcare Group Lp Flanged connector for wound therapy
US8167869B2 (en) 2009-02-10 2012-05-01 Tyco Healthcare Group Lp Wound therapy system with proportional valve mechanism
US20100210973A1 (en) * 2009-02-17 2010-08-19 Joanna Lynn Cecil Medical pressure measuring device
GB0902816D0 (en) 2009-02-19 2009-04-08 Smith & Nephew Fluid communication path
EP2419157A4 (en) 2009-04-17 2018-01-03 Kalypto Medical, Inc. Negative pressure wound therapy device
CA2758977A1 (en) * 2009-04-24 2010-10-28 Regenesis Biomedical, Inc. Pulsed electromagnetic field and negative pressure therapy wound treatment method and system
US20100305523A1 (en) * 2009-05-27 2010-12-02 Tyco Healthcare Group Lp Active Exudate Control System
US20110196321A1 (en) 2009-06-10 2011-08-11 Tyco Healthcare Group Lp Fluid Collection Canister Including Canister Top with Filter Membrane and Negative Pressure Wound Therapy Systems Including Same
US20100324516A1 (en) 2009-06-18 2010-12-23 Tyco Healthcare Group Lp Apparatus for Vacuum Bridging and/or Exudate Collection
US20110015585A1 (en) * 2009-07-14 2011-01-20 Pal Svedman Method and device for providing intermittent negative pressure wound healing
US20110015590A1 (en) * 2009-07-14 2011-01-20 Pal Svedman Disposable therapeutic device
US20110112490A1 (en) * 2009-07-14 2011-05-12 Vogel David C Releasably Sealable Wound Dressing for NPWT
US8444613B2 (en) * 2009-07-14 2013-05-21 Richard Vogel Pump leak monitor for negative pressure wound therapy
US20110015589A1 (en) * 2009-07-14 2011-01-20 Pal Svedman Disposable therapeutic device
US20110015619A1 (en) * 2009-07-16 2011-01-20 Pal Svedman Wound dressings for negative pressure therapy in deep wounds and method of using
US8900217B2 (en) * 2009-08-05 2014-12-02 Covidien Lp Surgical wound dressing incorporating connected hydrogel beads having an embedded electrode therein
US20110112574A1 (en) * 2009-09-11 2011-05-12 Svedman Pal Paul Device for manual traction wound closure
US20110106058A1 (en) * 2009-10-29 2011-05-05 Pal Svedman Adhesive Flange Attachment Reinforcer For Suction Port
US8066243B2 (en) * 2010-01-08 2011-11-29 Richard C. Vogel Adapter for portable negative pressure wound therapy device
US20110214315A1 (en) * 2010-03-05 2011-09-08 Leap Frogg, Llc Therapy shoe
AU2011237682B2 (en) 2010-04-06 2016-04-21 Synedgen, Inc. Methods and compositions for treating wounds utilizing chitosan compounds
US8979915B2 (en) 2010-04-19 2015-03-17 Pulsar Scientific, LLC Separable system for applying compression and thermal treatment
US9061095B2 (en) 2010-04-27 2015-06-23 Smith & Nephew Plc Wound dressing and method of use
US8623047B2 (en) 2010-04-30 2014-01-07 Kci Licensing, Inc. System and method for sealing an incisional wound
CA2814657A1 (en) 2010-10-12 2012-04-19 Kevin J. Tanis Medical device
US9421132B2 (en) 2011-02-04 2016-08-23 University Of Massachusetts Negative pressure wound closure device
AU2012212070A1 (en) 2011-02-04 2013-09-19 University Of Massachusetts Negative pressure wound closure device
WO2012134939A2 (en) * 2011-03-25 2012-10-04 Logan Kerry Improved intermittent pneumatic compression device
US9302034B2 (en) 2011-04-04 2016-04-05 Smith & Nephew, Inc. Negative pressure wound therapy dressing
US9058634B2 (en) 2011-05-24 2015-06-16 Kalypto Medical, Inc. Method for providing a negative pressure wound therapy pump device
AU2011368701A1 (en) 2011-05-24 2013-12-12 Smith & Nephew, Inc. Device with controller and pump modules for providing negative pressure for wound therapy
US9067003B2 (en) 2011-05-26 2015-06-30 Kalypto Medical, Inc. Method for providing negative pressure to a negative pressure wound therapy bandage
WO2012168678A1 (en) 2011-06-07 2012-12-13 Smith & Nephew Plc Wound contacting members and methods
AU2012282862B2 (en) 2011-07-08 2015-01-29 The Cleveland Clinic Foundation System for wound healing
WO2013025481A1 (en) 2011-08-12 2013-02-21 Avex, Llc Foot compression and electrical stimulation system
CN103889377B (en) 2011-11-11 2016-08-17 凯希特许有限公司 Liquid is used to control the dressing for treating the wound on the limbs of patient and system
US10799415B2 (en) 2011-12-02 2020-10-13 Avex, Llc Spring-driven foot compression system
EP2636417B1 (en) 2012-03-05 2017-04-26 Lohmann & Rauscher GmbH Wound treatment assembly and covering device for same
WO2013175310A2 (en) 2012-05-22 2013-11-28 Smith & Nephew Plc Apparatuses and methods for wound therapy
CN104619359B (en) 2012-05-22 2018-07-31 史密夫及内修公开有限公司 Wound healing device
EP3954347A1 (en) 2012-05-24 2022-02-16 Smith & Nephew, Inc. Devices for treating and closing wounds with negative pressure
US9259343B2 (en) 2012-07-06 2016-02-16 Newman Technologies LLC Device for mitigating plantar fasciitis
WO2014014871A1 (en) 2012-07-16 2014-01-23 Smith & Nephew, Inc. Negative pressure wound closure device
WO2014047506A1 (en) 2012-09-20 2014-03-27 Synedgen, Inc. Methods for treatment or prevention of damage resulting from radiation, trauma or shock
US9872812B2 (en) * 2012-09-28 2018-01-23 Kpr U.S., Llc Residual pressure control in a compression device
US20140171837A1 (en) * 2012-12-18 2014-06-19 Karen Aiko Harcourt Vacuum cast ("vac-cast") and methods for treatment of plantar wounds
US10383691B2 (en) * 2013-03-13 2019-08-20 The Spectranetics Corporation Last catheter with helical internal lumen
US9456872B2 (en) 2013-03-13 2016-10-04 The Spectranetics Corporation Laser ablation catheter
US9283040B2 (en) 2013-03-13 2016-03-15 The Spectranetics Corporation Device and method of ablative cutting with helical tip
CN113730099A (en) 2013-03-13 2021-12-03 史密夫和内修有限公司 Negative pressure wound closure device and system and method for treating a wound with negative pressure
US9883885B2 (en) 2013-03-13 2018-02-06 The Spectranetics Corporation System and method of ablative cutting and pulsed vacuum aspiration
US9737649B2 (en) 2013-03-14 2017-08-22 Smith & Nephew, Inc. Systems and methods for applying reduced pressure therapy
AU2014229749B2 (en) 2013-03-14 2018-09-20 Smith & Nephew Plc Compressible wound fillers and systems and methods of use in treating wounds with negative pressure
MX2015011812A (en) 2013-03-14 2016-07-05 Smith & Nephew Inc Systems and methods for applying reduced pressure therapy.
US10155070B2 (en) 2013-08-13 2018-12-18 Smith & Nephew, Inc. Systems and methods for applying reduced pressure therapy
US9649045B2 (en) 2013-08-27 2017-05-16 Baraa ALNABULSI Pneumatic circulatory enhancer for diabetic leg therapy
EP3060181B1 (en) 2013-10-21 2021-11-03 Smith & Nephew, Inc. Negative pressure wound closure device
RU2016133735A (en) 2014-01-21 2018-02-28 СМИТ ЭНД НЕФЬЮ ПиЭлСи COMPRESSIVE BANDAGE FOR TREATMENT OF Wounds by NEGATIVE PRESSURE
US10405924B2 (en) 2014-05-30 2019-09-10 The Spectranetics Corporation System and method of ablative cutting and vacuum aspiration through primary orifice and auxiliary side port
US11007082B2 (en) 2014-07-23 2021-05-18 Innovative Therapies Inc. Foam laminate dressing
WO2016018448A1 (en) 2014-07-31 2016-02-04 Smith & Nephew, Inc. Systems and methods for applying reduced pressure therapy
US9770369B2 (en) 2014-08-08 2017-09-26 Neogenix, Llc Wound care devices, apparatus, and treatment methods
SG11201704639WA (en) 2014-12-30 2017-07-28 Smith & Nephew Inc Systems and methods for applying reduced pressure therapy
US10369075B2 (en) 2015-03-03 2019-08-06 Avex, Llc Insole foot compression system and methods
AU2016254119A1 (en) 2015-04-29 2017-10-05 Smith & Nephew Inc. Negative pressure wound closure device
WO2016184913A1 (en) 2015-05-18 2016-11-24 Smith & Nephew Plc Negative pressure wound therapy apparatus and methods
EP3117806B1 (en) * 2015-07-16 2020-06-10 Lohmann & Rauscher GmbH Wound treatment assembly
CN108136084B (en) 2015-08-13 2022-09-13 史密夫和内修有限公司 Systems and methods for applying reduced pressure therapy
AU2015408286B2 (en) 2015-09-11 2021-06-24 Smith & Nephew, Inc. Systems and methods for applying reduced negative pressure therapy
WO2017053384A1 (en) * 2015-09-21 2017-03-30 Brigham And Women's Hospital, Inc. Negative pressure wound treatment system and method
US10575991B2 (en) 2015-12-15 2020-03-03 University Of Massachusetts Negative pressure wound closure devices and methods
US10814049B2 (en) 2015-12-15 2020-10-27 University Of Massachusetts Negative pressure wound closure devices and methods
US11471586B2 (en) 2015-12-15 2022-10-18 University Of Massachusetts Negative pressure wound closure devices and methods
EP3413945A1 (en) 2016-02-12 2018-12-19 Smith & Nephew, Inc Systems and methods for detecting operational conditions of reduced pressure therapy
CZ307756B6 (en) * 2016-08-15 2019-04-17 Fakultní nemocnice Hradec Králové A device with dressing material with adjustable pressure
US10675209B1 (en) 2016-09-08 2020-06-09 Karen Guthrie Stroud Fluid therapy device
AU2018220865B2 (en) 2017-02-15 2023-03-16 Smith & Nephew Asia Pacific Pte. Limited Negative pressure wound therapy apparatuses and methods for using the same
WO2018170151A1 (en) 2017-03-15 2018-09-20 Smith & Nephew, Inc. Pressure control in negative pressure wound therapy systems
EP3687592A1 (en) 2017-09-29 2020-08-05 T.J. Smith & Nephew, Limited Negative pressure wound therapy apparatus with removable panels
GB201813282D0 (en) 2018-08-15 2018-09-26 Smith & Nephew System for medical device activation and opertion
US10624794B2 (en) 2018-02-12 2020-04-21 Healyx Labs, Inc. Negative pressure wound therapy systems, devices, and methods
WO2019162272A1 (en) * 2018-02-21 2019-08-29 T.J.Smith And Nephew, Limited Monitoring of body loading and body position for the treatment of pressure ulcers or other injuries
GB201804347D0 (en) 2018-03-19 2018-05-02 Smith & Nephew Inc Securing control of settings of negative pressure wound therapy apparatuses and methods for using the same
WO2019211731A1 (en) 2018-04-30 2019-11-07 Smith & Nephew Pte. Limited Systems and methods for controlling dual mode negative pressure wound therapy apparatus
USD888225S1 (en) 2018-04-30 2020-06-23 Smith & Nephew Asia Pacific Pte. Limited Pump and canister assembly for negative pressure wound therapy
GB201808438D0 (en) 2018-05-23 2018-07-11 Smith & Nephew Systems and methods for determining blockages in a negative pressure wound therapy system
MX2021016075A (en) * 2019-06-20 2022-04-01 Kuo Huang Yang Fluid-carrying application.
US20230024049A1 (en) * 2021-07-26 2023-01-26 Nechelle Baldwin Footrest Assembly For Use With A Wheelchair

Citations (11)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US2098272A (en) * 1935-03-25 1937-11-09 Benson Simon Therapeutic apparatus
US3026874A (en) * 1959-11-06 1962-03-27 Robert C Stevens Wound shield
US4614179A (en) * 1985-08-08 1986-09-30 Electro-Biology, Inc. Medical appliance
US5007411A (en) * 1989-04-12 1991-04-16 The Kendall Company Device for applying compressive pressures against a patient's limb
US5222478A (en) * 1988-11-21 1993-06-29 Scarberry Eugene N Apparatus for application of pressure to a human body
US5443440A (en) * 1993-06-11 1995-08-22 Ndm Acquisition Corp. Medical pumping apparatus
US5489259A (en) * 1993-10-27 1996-02-06 Sundance Enterprises, Inc. Pressure-normalizing single-chambered static pressure device for supporting and protecting a body extremity
US5701917A (en) * 1994-03-30 1997-12-30 Khouri Biomedical Research, Inc. Method and apparatus for promoting soft tissue enlargement and wound healing
US5840049A (en) * 1995-09-07 1998-11-24 Kinetic Concepts, Inc. Medical pumping apparatus
US6135116A (en) * 1997-07-28 2000-10-24 Kci Licensing, Inc. Therapeutic method for treating ulcers
US7214202B1 (en) * 1997-07-28 2007-05-08 Kci Licensing, Inc. Therapeutic apparatus for treating ulcers

Family Cites Families (112)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US368180A (en) 1887-08-16 Cattle-stanchion
US1355846A (en) 1920-02-06 1920-10-19 David A Rannells Medical appliance
FR638309A (en) * 1927-02-03 1928-05-22 Massage device
US2547758A (en) 1949-01-05 1951-04-03 Wilmer B Keeling Instrument for treating the male urethra
US2632443A (en) 1949-04-18 1953-03-24 Eleanor P Lesher Surgical dressing
US2682873A (en) 1952-07-30 1954-07-06 Johnson & Johnson General purpose protective dressing
NL189176B (en) 1956-07-13 1900-01-01 Hisamitsu Pharmaceutical Co PLASTER BASED ON A SYNTHETIC RUBBER.
AT201229B (en) * 1957-06-14 1958-12-10 Oskar Mueller Suction and pressure massage apparatus
US2969057A (en) 1957-11-04 1961-01-24 Brady Co W H Nematodic swab
US3066672A (en) 1960-09-27 1962-12-04 Jr William H Crosby Method and apparatus for serial sampling of intestinal juice
US3367332A (en) 1965-08-27 1968-02-06 Gen Electric Product and process for establishing a sterile area of skin
US3520300A (en) 1967-03-15 1970-07-14 Amp Inc Surgical sponge and suction device
US3568675A (en) 1968-08-30 1971-03-09 Clyde B Harvey Fistula and penetrating wound dressing
US3682180A (en) 1970-06-08 1972-08-08 Coilform Co Inc Drain clip for surgical drain
BE789293Q (en) 1970-12-07 1973-01-15 Parke Davis & Co MEDICO-SURGICAL DRESSING FOR BURNS AND SIMILAR LESIONS
US3826254A (en) 1973-02-26 1974-07-30 Verco Ind Needle or catheter retaining appliance
DE2527706A1 (en) 1975-06-21 1976-12-30 Hanfried Dr Med Weigand DEVICE FOR THE INTRODUCTION OF CONTRAST AGENTS INTO AN ARTIFICIAL INTESTINAL OUTLET
DE2640413C3 (en) 1976-09-08 1980-03-27 Richard Wolf Gmbh, 7134 Knittlingen Catheter monitor
NL7710909A (en) 1976-10-08 1978-04-11 Smith & Nephew COMPOSITE STRAPS.
GB1562244A (en) 1976-11-11 1980-03-05 Lock P M Wound dressing materials
US4080970A (en) 1976-11-17 1978-03-28 Miller Thomas J Post-operative combination dressing and internal drain tube with external shield and tube connector
US4139004A (en) 1977-02-17 1979-02-13 Gonzalez Jr Harry Bandage apparatus for treating burns
US4184510A (en) 1977-03-15 1980-01-22 Fibra-Sonics, Inc. Valued device for controlling vacuum in surgery
US4165748A (en) 1977-11-07 1979-08-28 Johnson Melissa C Catheter tube holder
US4245637A (en) 1978-07-10 1981-01-20 Nichols Robert L Shutoff valve sleeve
SE414994B (en) 1978-11-28 1980-09-01 Landstingens Inkopscentral VENKATETERFORBAND
WO1980001139A1 (en) 1978-12-06 1980-06-12 Svedman Paul Device for treating tissues,for example skin
US4284079A (en) 1979-06-28 1981-08-18 Adair Edwin Lloyd Method for applying a male incontinence device
US4261363A (en) 1979-11-09 1981-04-14 C. R. Bard, Inc. Retention clips for body fluid drains
US4569348A (en) 1980-02-22 1986-02-11 Velcro Usa Inc. Catheter tube holder strap
US4480638A (en) 1980-03-11 1984-11-06 Eduard Schmid Cushion for holding an element of grafted skin
US4297995A (en) 1980-06-03 1981-11-03 Key Pharmaceuticals, Inc. Bandage containing attachment post
US4333468A (en) 1980-08-18 1982-06-08 Geist Robert W Mesentery tube holder apparatus
US4465485A (en) 1981-03-06 1984-08-14 Becton, Dickinson And Company Suction canister with unitary shut-off valve and filter features
US4392853A (en) 1981-03-16 1983-07-12 Rudolph Muto Sterile assembly for protecting and fastening an indwelling device
US4373519A (en) 1981-06-26 1983-02-15 Minnesota Mining And Manufacturing Company Composite wound dressing
US4392858A (en) 1981-07-16 1983-07-12 Sherwood Medical Company Wound drainage device
US4419097A (en) 1981-07-31 1983-12-06 Rexar Industries, Inc. Attachment for catheter tube
AU550575B2 (en) 1981-08-07 1986-03-27 Richard Christian Wright Wound drainage device
SE429197B (en) 1981-10-14 1983-08-22 Frese Nielsen SAR TREATMENT DEVICE
DE3146266A1 (en) 1981-11-21 1983-06-01 B. Braun Melsungen Ag, 3508 Melsungen COMBINED DEVICE FOR A MEDICAL SUCTION DRAINAGE
US4551139A (en) 1982-02-08 1985-11-05 Marion Laboratories, Inc. Method and apparatus for burn wound treatment
US4475909A (en) 1982-05-06 1984-10-09 Eisenberg Melvin I Male urinary device and method for applying the device
NZ206837A (en) 1983-01-27 1986-08-08 Johnson & Johnson Prod Inc Thin film adhesive dressing:backing material in three sections
US4548202A (en) 1983-06-20 1985-10-22 Ethicon, Inc. Mesh tissue fasteners
US4540412A (en) 1983-07-14 1985-09-10 The Kendall Company Device for moist heat therapy
US4543100A (en) 1983-11-01 1985-09-24 Brodsky Stuart A Catheter and drain tube retainer
US4525374A (en) 1984-02-27 1985-06-25 Manresa, Inc. Treating hydrophobic filters to render them hydrophilic
US4897081A (en) 1984-05-25 1990-01-30 Thermedics Inc. Percutaneous access device
US5215522A (en) 1984-07-23 1993-06-01 Ballard Medical Products Single use medical aspirating device and method
GB8419745D0 (en) 1984-08-02 1984-09-05 Smith & Nephew Ass Wound dressing
US4872450A (en) 1984-08-17 1989-10-10 Austad Eric D Wound dressing and method of forming same
US4826494A (en) 1984-11-09 1989-05-02 Stryker Corporation Vacuum wound drainage system
US4655754A (en) 1984-11-09 1987-04-07 Stryker Corporation Vacuum wound drainage system and lipids baffle therefor
US4605399A (en) 1984-12-04 1986-08-12 Complex, Inc. Transdermal infusion device
US5037397A (en) 1985-05-03 1991-08-06 Medical Distributors, Inc. Universal clamp
US4640688A (en) 1985-08-23 1987-02-03 Mentor Corporation Urine collection catheter
US4710165A (en) 1985-09-16 1987-12-01 Mcneil Charles B Wearable, variable rate suction/collection device
US4758220A (en) 1985-09-26 1988-07-19 Alcon Laboratories, Inc. Surgical cassette proximity sensing and latching apparatus
US4733659A (en) 1986-01-17 1988-03-29 Seton Company Foam bandage
US4838883A (en) 1986-03-07 1989-06-13 Nissho Corporation Urine-collecting device
JPS62281965A (en) 1986-05-29 1987-12-07 テルモ株式会社 Catheter and catheter fixing member
GB8621884D0 (en) 1986-09-11 1986-10-15 Bard Ltd Catheter applicator
GB2195255B (en) * 1986-09-30 1991-05-01 Vacutec Uk Limited Apparatus for vacuum treatment of an epidermal surface
US4743232A (en) 1986-10-06 1988-05-10 The Clinipad Corporation Package assembly for plastic film bandage
DE3634569A1 (en) 1986-10-10 1988-04-21 Sachse Hans E CONDOM CATHETER, A URINE TUBE CATHETER FOR PREVENTING RISING INFECTIONS
JPS63135179A (en) 1986-11-26 1988-06-07 立花 俊郎 Subcataneous drug administration set
GB8706116D0 (en) 1987-03-14 1987-04-15 Smith & Nephew Ass Adhesive dressings
US4787888A (en) 1987-06-01 1988-11-29 University Of Connecticut Disposable piezoelectric polymer bandage for percutaneous delivery of drugs and method for such percutaneous delivery (a)
US4863449A (en) 1987-07-06 1989-09-05 Hollister Incorporated Adhesive-lined elastic condom cathether
US5176663A (en) 1987-12-02 1993-01-05 Pal Svedman Dressing having pad with compressibility limiting elements
US4826949A (en) 1987-12-22 1989-05-02 Basf Corporation High shrinkage polyester fibers and method of preparation
US4906240A (en) 1988-02-01 1990-03-06 Matrix Medica, Inc. Adhesive-faced porous absorbent sheet and method of making same
US4985019A (en) 1988-03-11 1991-01-15 Michelson Gary K X-ray marker
US4919654A (en) 1988-08-03 1990-04-24 Kalt Medical Corporation IV clamp with membrane
US5000741A (en) 1988-08-22 1991-03-19 Kalt Medical Corporation Transparent tracheostomy tube dressing
DE69017479T2 (en) 1989-01-16 1995-07-13 Roussel Uclaf Azabicyclohepten derivatives and their salts, processes for their preparation, their use as medicaments and preparations containing them.
US5100396A (en) 1989-04-03 1992-03-31 Zamierowski David S Fluidic connection system and method
US5527293A (en) 1989-04-03 1996-06-18 Kinetic Concepts, Inc. Fastening system and method
US4969880A (en) 1989-04-03 1990-11-13 Zamierowski David S Wound dressing and treatment method
US5261893A (en) 1989-04-03 1993-11-16 Zamierowski David S Fastening system and method
JP2719671B2 (en) 1989-07-11 1998-02-25 日本ゼオン株式会社 Wound dressing
US5358494A (en) 1989-07-11 1994-10-25 Svedman Paul Irrigation dressing
US5232453A (en) 1989-07-14 1993-08-03 E. R. Squibb & Sons, Inc. Catheter holder
US5134994A (en) 1990-02-12 1992-08-04 Say Sam L Field aspirator in a soft pack with externally mounted container
US5092858A (en) 1990-03-20 1992-03-03 Becton, Dickinson And Company Liquid gelling agent distributor device
US5149331A (en) 1991-05-03 1992-09-22 Ariel Ferdman Method and device for wound closure
US5278100A (en) 1991-11-08 1994-01-11 Micron Technology, Inc. Chemical vapor deposition technique for depositing titanium silicide on semiconductor wafers
US5636643A (en) 1991-11-14 1997-06-10 Wake Forest University Wound treatment employing reduced pressure
US5645081A (en) * 1991-11-14 1997-07-08 Wake Forest University Method of treating tissue damage and apparatus for same
US5279550A (en) 1991-12-19 1994-01-18 Gish Biomedical, Inc. Orthopedic autotransfusion system
US5167613A (en) 1992-03-23 1992-12-01 The Kendall Company Composite vented wound dressing
FR2690617B1 (en) 1992-04-29 1994-06-24 Cbh Textile TRANSPARENT ADHESIVE DRESSING.
DE4306478A1 (en) 1993-03-02 1994-09-08 Wolfgang Dr Wagner Drainage device, in particular pleural drainage device, and drainage method
US5342376A (en) 1993-05-03 1994-08-30 Dermagraphics, Inc. Inserting device for a barbed tissue connector
US6241747B1 (en) * 1993-05-03 2001-06-05 Quill Medical, Inc. Barbed Bodily tissue connector
US5344415A (en) 1993-06-15 1994-09-06 Deroyal Industries, Inc. Sterile system for dressing vascular access site
US5437651A (en) 1993-09-01 1995-08-01 Research Medical, Inc. Medical suction apparatus
US5549584A (en) 1994-02-14 1996-08-27 The Kendall Company Apparatus for removing fluid from a wound
US5607388A (en) 1994-06-16 1997-03-04 Hercules Incorporated Multi-purpose wound dressing
US5556375A (en) 1994-06-16 1996-09-17 Hercules Incorporated Wound dressing having a fenestrated base layer
US5664270A (en) 1994-07-19 1997-09-09 Kinetic Concepts, Inc. Patient interface system
DE29504378U1 (en) 1995-03-15 1995-09-14 Mtg Medizinisch Tech Geraeteba Electronically controlled low-vacuum pump for chest and wound drainage
GB9719520D0 (en) 1997-09-12 1997-11-19 Kci Medical Ltd Surgical drape and suction heads for wound treatment
US6071267A (en) 1998-02-06 2000-06-06 Kinetic Concepts, Inc. Medical patient fluid management interface system and method
US6488643B1 (en) 1998-10-08 2002-12-03 Kci Licensing, Inc. Wound healing foot wrap
US6287316B1 (en) * 1999-03-26 2001-09-11 Ethicon, Inc. Knitted surgical mesh
US6856821B2 (en) 2000-05-26 2005-02-15 Kci Licensing, Inc. System for combined transcutaneous blood gas monitoring and vacuum assisted wound closure
US7799004B2 (en) 2001-03-05 2010-09-21 Kci Licensing, Inc. Negative pressure wound treatment apparatus and infection identification system and method
US6991643B2 (en) * 2000-12-20 2006-01-31 Usgi Medical Inc. Multi-barbed device for retaining tissue in apposition and methods of use
US6355295B1 (en) 2000-02-29 2002-03-12 Protein Technologies International, Inc. Soy functional food ingredient
US6540705B2 (en) 2001-02-22 2003-04-01 Core Products International, Inc. Ankle brace providing upper and lower ankle adjustment

Patent Citations (12)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US2098272A (en) * 1935-03-25 1937-11-09 Benson Simon Therapeutic apparatus
US3026874A (en) * 1959-11-06 1962-03-27 Robert C Stevens Wound shield
US4614179A (en) * 1985-08-08 1986-09-30 Electro-Biology, Inc. Medical appliance
US5222478A (en) * 1988-11-21 1993-06-29 Scarberry Eugene N Apparatus for application of pressure to a human body
US5007411A (en) * 1989-04-12 1991-04-16 The Kendall Company Device for applying compressive pressures against a patient's limb
US5443440A (en) * 1993-06-11 1995-08-22 Ndm Acquisition Corp. Medical pumping apparatus
US5489259A (en) * 1993-10-27 1996-02-06 Sundance Enterprises, Inc. Pressure-normalizing single-chambered static pressure device for supporting and protecting a body extremity
US5701917A (en) * 1994-03-30 1997-12-30 Khouri Biomedical Research, Inc. Method and apparatus for promoting soft tissue enlargement and wound healing
US5840049A (en) * 1995-09-07 1998-11-24 Kinetic Concepts, Inc. Medical pumping apparatus
US6135116A (en) * 1997-07-28 2000-10-24 Kci Licensing, Inc. Therapeutic method for treating ulcers
US7214202B1 (en) * 1997-07-28 2007-05-08 Kci Licensing, Inc. Therapeutic apparatus for treating ulcers
US7618382B2 (en) * 1997-07-28 2009-11-17 Kci Licensing, Inc. Therapeutic apparatus for treating ulcers by applying positive and/or negative pressures

Cited By (31)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US9433525B2 (en) 1998-06-08 2016-09-06 Thermotek, Inc. Compression sequenced thermal therapy system
US9180041B2 (en) 1998-06-08 2015-11-10 Thermotek, Inc. Compression sequenced thermal therapy system
US9119705B2 (en) 1998-06-08 2015-09-01 Thermotek, Inc. Method and system for thermal and compression therapy relative to the prevention of deep vein thrombosis
US10507131B2 (en) 1998-06-08 2019-12-17 Thermotek, Inc. Method and system for thermal and compression therapy relative to the prevention of deep vein thrombosis
US9877864B2 (en) 1998-06-08 2018-01-30 Thermotek, Inc. Compression sequenced thermal therapy system
US10507140B2 (en) 2003-07-18 2019-12-17 Thermotek, Inc. Wound care method and system with one or both of vacuum-light therapy and thermally augmented oxygenation
US8753383B2 (en) 2003-07-18 2014-06-17 Thermotek, Inc. Compression sequenced thermal therapy system
US9616210B2 (en) 2003-07-18 2017-04-11 Thermotek, Inc. Wound care method and system with one or both of vacuum-light therapy and thermally augmented oxygenation
US8778005B2 (en) 2003-07-18 2014-07-15 Thermotek, Inc. Method and system for thermal and compression therapy relative to the prevention of deep vein thrombosis
US20110077723A1 (en) * 2003-07-18 2011-03-31 Thermotek, Inc. Compression sequenced thermal therapy system
US10765785B2 (en) 2004-07-19 2020-09-08 Thermotek, Inc. Wound care and infusion method and system utilizing a therapeutic agent
US8940034B2 (en) 2004-07-19 2015-01-27 Thermotek, Inc. Wound care method and system with one or both of vacuum-light therapy and thermally augmented oxygenation
US20100210982A1 (en) * 2006-04-11 2010-08-19 Niran Balachandran Method And System For Providing Segmental Gradient Compression
US8632576B2 (en) 2006-05-09 2014-01-21 Thermotek, Inc. Wound care method and system with one or both of vacuum-light therapy and thermally augmented oxygenation
US8574278B2 (en) 2006-05-09 2013-11-05 Thermotek, Inc. Wound care method and system with one or both of vacuum-light therapy and thermally augmented oxygenation
US9950148B2 (en) 2006-05-09 2018-04-24 Thermotek, Inc. Wound care method and system with one or both of vacuum-light therapy and thermally augmented oxygenation
US10507311B2 (en) 2006-05-09 2019-12-17 Thermotek, Inc. Wound care method and system with one or both of vacuum-light therapy and thermally augmented oxygenation
US8460355B2 (en) 2007-04-05 2013-06-11 Stryker Corporation Negative/positive pressure, thermal energy therapy device
US20090048649A1 (en) * 2007-08-16 2009-02-19 Gaymar Industries, Inc. Heat transfer device: seal and thermal energy contact units
US8758419B1 (en) 2008-01-31 2014-06-24 Thermotek, Inc. Contact cooler for skin cooling applications
US10512587B2 (en) 2011-07-27 2019-12-24 Thermotek, Inc. Method and apparatus for scalp thermal treatment
WO2013162728A1 (en) * 2012-04-24 2013-10-31 Thermotek, Inc. Method and system for therapeutic use of ultra-violet light
US10149927B2 (en) 2012-04-24 2018-12-11 Thermotek, Inc. Method and system for therapeutic use of ultra-violet light
US10918843B2 (en) 2013-03-11 2021-02-16 Thermotek, Inc. Wound care and infusion method and system utilizing a thermally-treated therapeutic agent
US10016583B2 (en) 2013-03-11 2018-07-10 Thermotek, Inc. Wound care and infusion method and system utilizing a thermally-treated therapeutic agent
US10300180B1 (en) 2013-03-11 2019-05-28 Thermotek, Inc. Wound care and infusion method and system utilizing a therapeutic agent
US10272258B2 (en) 2013-11-11 2019-04-30 Thermotek, Inc. Method and system for wound care
US9669233B2 (en) 2013-11-11 2017-06-06 Thermotek, Inc. Method and system for wound care
US11614170B2 (en) 2015-07-29 2023-03-28 Innovative Therapies, Llc Wound therapy device pressure monitoring and control system
US10492691B2 (en) 2015-08-31 2019-12-03 Massachusetts Institute Of Technology Systems and methods for tissue stiffness measurements
WO2017040680A1 (en) * 2015-08-31 2017-03-09 Massachusetts Institute Of Technology Systems and methods for tissue stiffness measurements

Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
US20060149171A1 (en) 2006-07-06
US7618382B2 (en) 2009-11-17
US7214202B1 (en) 2007-05-08

Similar Documents

Publication Publication Date Title
US7618382B2 (en) Therapeutic apparatus for treating ulcers by applying positive and/or negative pressures
US6135116A (en) Therapeutic method for treating ulcers
US6468237B1 (en) Pneumatic pump, housing and methods for medical purposes
EP0861652B1 (en) Pneumatic compression device and methods for use in the medical field
AU2017325804B2 (en) Therapeutic compression apparatus and methods of use
US6852089B2 (en) Compression garment for selective application for treatment of lymphedema and related illnesses manifested at various locations of the body
US5989204A (en) Foot-mounted venous compression device
US5711760A (en) Self-inflating venous boot
US7559908B2 (en) Compression apparatus for applying localized pressure to a wound or ulcer
EP2219576B1 (en) Assembly for treating venous ulcers and wounds
US20040111048A1 (en) Compression device for treatment of chronic venous insufficiency
US20050154336A1 (en) Segmented pneumatic pad for regulating pressure upon parts of the body during usage
US11464969B2 (en) Method and device for enhanced blood flow
US6893409B1 (en) Foot mounted venous compression device
US8755894B2 (en) Method and device for enhanced blood flow
WO2008130689A1 (en) Device and method for treating chronic wounds
CN116261442A (en) Therapeutic compression system and method of use thereof
US20200230387A1 (en) Devices and methods for warm gas therapy
WO1999037266A1 (en) Venous boot
WO1997018788A1 (en) Self-inflating venous boot

Legal Events

Date Code Title Description
AS Assignment

Owner name: KINETIC CONCEPTS, INC.,TEXAS

Free format text: ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST;ASSIGNORS:VOGEL, RICHARD C.;TUMEY, DAVID M.;MORRIS, SUSAN P.;AND OTHERS;SIGNING DATES FROM 19970729 TO 19970730;REEL/FRAME:023512/0619

Owner name: KCI LICENSING, INC.,TEXAS

Free format text: ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST;ASSIGNOR:KINETIC CONCEPTS, INC.;REEL/FRAME:023512/0638

Effective date: 20020603

STCB Information on status: application discontinuation

Free format text: EXPRESSLY ABANDONED -- DURING EXAMINATION