Patent Application
20140066882
The present disclosure generally relates to indicia for use with medical article securement systems and methods, and medical article securement systems and methods comprising indicia, for securing a medical article to the body of a patient, and particularly, for securing various catheter systems, tubes, or other elongated devices to the body of a patient.
In various medical treatments, it can be necessary to introduce fluids and liquid medications directly into a blood vessel of a patient. A simple intravenous (IV) line can be acceptable for short term general use. IV lines are typically placed onto a patient's arm and secured with tape. For longer term and more specialized needs, catheters or other devices are used.
The tip of a catheter can be positioned into a larger vein close to the patient's heart or into the right atrium. If the catheter is inserted through a large neck or chest vein, it is usually referred to as a central venous catheter (CVC). A venous catheter peripherally inserted into the heart through a vein in the arm or other extremity is referred to as a peripherally inserted central catheter (PICC). CVCs and PICCs can be inserted through an incision in the skin into a blood vessel in the patient's body, generally without surgery. CVCs and PICCs can be used to provide medications or fluids to home care patients over longer periods of time, such as weeks or months. CVCs and PICCs may also be used for blood sampling.
Because CVCs and PICCs and similar catheters may remain in place in a patient for several weeks or months, it is important that movement of the catheter be minimized. If the catheter is not secured in place, it may be inadvertently displaced from the intended location or moved back and forth, e.g., during use or dressing changes. Consequently, medication delivered through the catheter may be released at an incorrect position within the blood vessel; the insertion site or the blood vessel can become irritated; the potential for bleeding can be increased; and the insertion site can become contaminated or infected. If extensive movement occurs, the catheter could even inadvertently be removed from the patient, interrupting delivery of medication and requiring re-insertion, often with hospitalization.
In order to keep the catheter or other medical line properly positioned for the duration of treatment, the catheter may be secured to the patient in a variety of ways. One common way of securing a catheter is by taping the catheter or medical line to the patient's skin. However, taping can be time consuming and labor intensive. Tape can also collect bacteria or other contaminants and must be frequently removed and replaced. In addition, taping is not necessarily effective in securing a catheter in place, and removal of the tape may cause undesired motion of the catheter. Sutures have also been used to attach a catheter to a patient. With sutures, the catheter is stitched onto the skin. Sutures, however, can also be a source of infection, can cause pain and inflammation, and can make it more difficult to clean around the incision site. Sutures also require time and skill to place, and can cause scarring.
Various other catheter securement devices have been developed to obviate some of the fallbacks associated with the use of tape and sutures. Some existing catheter securement devices are generally designed for a specific type of catheter. As a result, multiple securement devices may be needed to accommodate different types of catheters, e.g., in hospitals and clinical settings. This can add to the cost and complexity of sourcing, inventory, storage, and selection of the securement devices.
The present disclosure is generally directed to indicia for use with medical article securement systems and methods, and medical article securement systems and methods comprising indicia. Such indicia generally mimics the overall shape, appearance and/or configuration of the medical article to be secured to provide a visual cue for reliably coupling the medical article to the system in a proper orientation. The medical article securement systems and methods of the present disclosure are generally universal, robust, easy to use, and are designed to facilitate coupling and decoupling a medical article to and from the system, while also providing means for reliably retaining a medical article, e.g., a catheter system, for a desired treatment period.
One aspect of the present disclosure provides indicia for use with a medical article securement system. The indicia can include a representation of a medical article, such that the indicia mimics the appearance of the medical article and provides a visual cue for coupling the medical article to the medical article securement system.
Another aspect of the present disclosure provides a medical article securement system. The system can include a bracket configured to receive a medical article. The bracket can include indicia comprising a representation of a medical article that mimics the appearance of the medical article and provides a visual cue for coupling the medical article to the bracket.
Another aspect of the present disclosure provides a method for coupling a medical article to a medical article securement system. The method can include providing a medical article; and providing a medical article securement system comprising indicia, wherein the indicia includes a representation of the medical article. The method can further include orienting the medical article relative to the medical article securement system in an orientation that matches the indicia. The method can further include coupling the medical article to the medical article securement system.
Other features and aspects of the present disclosure will become apparent by consideration of the detailed description and accompanying drawings.
Before any embodiments of the present disclosure are explained in detail, it is to be understood that the invention is not limited in its application to the details of construction and the arrangement of components set forth in the following description or illustrated in the following drawings. The invention is capable of other embodiments and of being practiced or of being carried out in various ways. Also, it is to be understood that the phraseology and terminology used herein is for the purpose of description and should not be regarded as limiting. The use of “including,” “comprising,” or “having” and variations thereof herein is meant to encompass the items listed thereafter and equivalents thereof as well as additional items. Unless specified or limited otherwise, the term “coupled” and variations thereof are used broadly and encompass both direct and indirect couplings. It is to be understood that other embodiments may be utilized, and structural or logical changes may be made without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. Furthermore, terms such as “front,” “rear,” “top,” “bottom,” and the like are only used to describe elements as they relate to one another, but are in no way meant to recite specific orientations of the apparatus, to indicate or imply necessary or required orientations of the apparatus, or to specify how the invention described herein will be used, mounted, displayed, or positioned in use.
The present disclosure generally relates to indicia for use with medical article securement systems and methods, and medical article securement systems and methods comprising indicia, for safely and reliably securing a medical article, such as a catheter system, upon a desired location of a patient's body. The medical article securement systems can be universal to accommodate and reliably secure a large variety of medical articles or class of medical articles (e.g., PICCs), and can be particularly useful for securing medical articles that need to be secured to a patient over a prolonged period of time, such as weeks or months. The indicia can generally mimic the overall shape, appearance, and/or configuration of the medical article to be secured to provide a visual cue for reliably coupling the medical article to the medical article securement system in a proper orientation, and particularly, such that portions of the medical article are properly positioned, relative to elements of the system, to maximize security and retention of the medical article.
Examples of medical articles that can be employed with the medical article securement system of the present disclosure include, but are not limited to, connector fittings, catheter systems (e.g., including catheters, catheter hubs, catheter adaptors, etc.), fluid supply lines, other similar articles, or combinations thereof. Examples of catheter systems can include, but are not limited to, intravenous (IV) catheters, central venous catheters (CVCs), peripherally inserted central catheters (PICCs), arterial catheters, and dialysis catheters.
The terms “longitudinal” and “axial” are used to refer to a direction or axis that is generally parallel to the direction in which the medical article extends and generally parallel to the overall direction of fluid flow, e.g., along a catheter line.
The term “lateral” is used to refer to a direction or axis that is perpendicular to the longitudinal axis or direction and is used to represent side-to-side motion of a medical article.
The terms “vertical” and “normal” are used to refer to a direction or axis that is normal to both the longitudinal and lateral directions or axes, as well as to the surface of a patient's skin when the medical article securement system is coupled to the patient's skin, and is used to represent the direction of motion toward and away from the skin surface.
The term “proximal” and “distal” are used to represent axial directions, relative to a medical practitioner operating or holding the medical article. That is, the term “distal” is used to refer to the direction away from the medical practitioner (and toward an insertion site on the patient and inside the patient's body), and the term “proximal” is used to refer to the direction toward the medical practitioner (and toward the outside of the patient's body, away from the insertion site). For example, the distal end of a catheter is inserted into the patient, while the proximal end extends exterior of the patient toward the medical practitioner. The distal end of the medical article securement system refers to the end of the system that is configured to be oriented toward the distal end of the medical article to which it will be coupled, and the proximal end of the medical article securement system refers to the end of the system that is configured to be oriented toward the proximal end of the medical article. As a result, in the case of catheter systems, the distal end of the medical article securement system will be oriented toward the insertion site on the patient's body, and the proximal end of the of the medical article securement system will be oriented away from the insertion site on the patient's body.
As shown, the medical article 60 can have a longitudinal axis A that extends along and defines a longitudinal direction D. The medical article can extend distally to include a first longitudinal, distal end or portion 68 (which may extend beyond what is shown in
By way of example only, the distal portion 68 of the medical article 60 is shown as entering a peripheral vein in a patient's arm at an insertion site 65, and the proximal portion 70 is shown to include the three input catheters 62 terminating at respective connectors, which can each be connected to fluid supply lines, or the like, for delivery of a variety of nutrients or medicaments to the patient.
As shown in
The bracket 102 can include a base (or “platform”) 110. The base 110 (or the bracket 102 or the system 100) can include a longitudinal axis A′ that is oriented along or parallel to the longitudinal axis A of the medical article 60 when the medical article 60 is coupled to the bracket 102. That is, when the medical article 60 is coupled to the bracket 102, the longitudinal axis A of the medical article 60 can be generally aligned with (which can include directly overlapping or just parallel to) the longitudinal axis A′ of the base 110. The longitudinal axis A′ of the base 110 (or the bracket 102) also extends along or defines the longitudinal direction D.
The base 110 can include a first major surface 112 (e.g., an upper surface) configured to face away from the patient's skin 50 and to receive at least a portion of the medical article 60. The base 110 can further include a second major surface 114 (e.g., a bottom surface) opposite the first major surface 112 that is configured to face the patient's skin 50 and to be securely coupled (e.g., adhered) to the base dressing 104. The base 110 (or the bracket 102) can further include a distal end (or first longitudinal end) 111 and a proximal end (or second longitudinal end) 113, such that, for example, the distal end 111 is configured to be positioned away from a medical practitioner operating or holding the medical article 60, and the proximal end 113 is configured to be positioned toward the medical practitioner. In the example of a catheter system 60, as shown, the distal end 111 of the base 110 can be positioned toward the insertion site 65, and the proximal end 113 of the base 110 can be positioned away from the insertion site 65. The longitudinal axis A′ can extend in the longitudinal direction (e.g., as defined by the medical article 60) between the distal end 111 and the proximal end 113.
The base dressing 104 includes a first side 116 configured to face away from the patient's skin 50, and a second side 118 opposite the first side 116 that comprises a skin-contact adhesive 115 (see
The skin-contact adhesive 115 is generally a pressure-sensitive adhesive, and particularly is a pressure-sensitive adhesive that is capable of securely but releasably adhering or bonding to skin (e.g., mammalian skin). The skin-contact adhesive 115 is also generally safe and non-toxic. Skin-contact adhesive layers will generally be selected according to the desired end use of the base dressing 104. In some embodiments, the base dressing 104 can include more than one skin-contact adhesive 115. Where the base dressing 104 comprises more than one skin-contact adhesive layer 115, each skin-contact adhesive layer 115 may be selected independently of each other with regard to material and thickness used. Examples of suitable adhesives include acrylates, silicones, polyisobutylenes, synthetic rubber, natural rubber, and copolymers and mixtures thereof. Acrylates and silicones can be preferred skin-contact adhesives 115. In general, the skin-contact adhesive 115 should cause little or no irritation or sensitization of the skin during the intended wear period. Examples of skin-contact adhesives 115 that can be employed with the systems of the present disclosure include, but are not limited to, the adhesives described in U.S. Pat. Nos. RE24,906; 3,389,827; 6,103,369 and 4,499,896, which are incorporated herein by reference. In addition, silicone adhesives such as those described in U.S. Patent Publication No. 2011/0212325, which is incorporated herein by reference, can also be employed.
In some embodiments, e.g., in embodiments employing silicone adhesives, the base dressing 104 and the skin-contact adhesive 115 can be perforated to provide openings from the first side 116 of the base dressing 104 all the way through the second side 118 and the skin-contact adhesive 115, which can enhance permeability of the base dressing 104 and can minimize moisture build-up at the skin surface underlying the base dressing 104.
As shown in
Examples of liners suitable for use with systems of the present disclosure can include, but are not limited to, kraft papers, polyethylene, polypropylene, polyester, or combinations thereof. Such liners can be coated with release agents, such as fluorochemicals, silicones, or other suitable low surface energy materials. Other adhesives and release liner 101 combinations known to those of ordinary skill in the art can be employed in the systems of the present disclosure.
The bracket 102 (e.g., the second major surface 114 of the base 110) can be coupled to the base dressing 104 using a variety of coupling means including, but not limited to, one or more of adhesives, cohesives, magnets, welding (e.g., sonic [e.g., ultrasonic] welding), any thermal bonding or heat sealing technique (e.g., heat and/or pressure applied to one or both of the components to be coupled), other suitable coupling means, or combinations thereof.
The bracket 102 can further include one or more vertical posts (or “projections” or “stop blocks” or “longitudinal stops”) 120 coupled to the base 110 that extend upwardly from the base 110, away from the first major surface 112 of the base 110 and the patient's skin 50, in a direction generally normal to the first major surface 112. As shown in
Each post 120 can include a distal end 121 positioned toward the distal end 111 of the base 110 and a proximal end 123 positioned toward the proximal end 113 of the base 110. The distal end 121 (as shown in
By being configured to abut an external surface S of the medical article 60, each post 120 can facilitate coupling and decoupling of the medical article to the bracket 102 without requiring that any portion of the bracket 102 be forced through any portion of the medical article 60 (e.g., suture holes of a catheter hub or wing) or snapped onto the medical article 60. As a result, no portion of the medical article 60 and/or the bracket 102 needs to be so firmly pressed toward the patient's skin 50 or the bracket 102 during application, or firmly pulled away from the patient's skin 50 during removal, which can cause disruption of the insertion site 65 or undesirable movement of the medical article 60 relative to the patient's skin 50.
The bracket 102 can further include one or more arms (or “fingers” or “bars” or “hooks” or “prongs”) 130 coupled to the base 110 that extend generally parallel to the first major surface 112 of the base 110 and are spaced a vertical distance from the first major surface 112 to define a channel 132 under the arm 130. Rather than extending outwardly from the base 110, in some embodiments, as shown, the arm 130 can be positioned in an at least partially overlapping relationship with the base 110, such that at least a portion of the arm 130 extends over the first major surface 112 of the base 110.
The channel 132 can be dimensioned to receive at least a portion of the medical article 60 (e.g., a more proximal portion than the portion positioned adjacent the post(s) 120) between the arm 130 and the base 110. One arm 130 is shown by way of example only, but it should be understood that as many arms 130 as necessary for a given medical article 60 can be employed (see, e.g., the embodiments illustrated in
Similar to the post(s) 120, the arm 130 can be configured to facilitate coupling and decoupling the medical article 60 without excessive forces or complex motions, by allowing the medical article 60, or a portion thereof, to be simply slid into position in the channel 132 under the arm 130. In some embodiments, the channel 132, e.g., the vertical spacing of the arm 130 from the first major surface 112 of the base 110, can be dimensioned to provide the desired amount of grip or retention on the medical article 60, and/or the appropriate resistance (if any) to positioning the medical article 60 under the arm 130 or removing the medical article 60 from under the arm 130.
When the medical article 60 is coupled to the bracket 102 and a portion thereof is positioned in the channel 132 defined by the arm 130, the arm 130 can be configured to inhibit movement of the medical article 60 in at least a direction that is generally normal to the first major surface 112 of the base 110, i.e., to inhibit the medical article 60 from being pulled away from the patient's skin 50. Depending on the orientation of the arm 130 with respect to the longitudinal axis A′ of the base 110, the arm 132 can also inhibit movement of the medical article 60 in other directions (e.g., lateral or oblique) when the medical article 60 is coupled to the bracket 102.
In the embodiment illustrated in
In some embodiments, as shown in the embodiment of
In some embodiments, the free end 136 of the arm 130 (e.g., of the projection 139) can include a retaining feature 138, such as a protrusion, a nub, a rib, or the like, which can at least partially inhibit the medical article 60 from being removed from the channel 132 after it has been positioned in the channel 132. That is, the retaining feature 138 can inhibit movement of the medical article 60 in a direction toward the free end 136 of the arm 130 and generally opposite, or away from, the pedestal 137 or the fixed end 134.
As shown, in some embodiments, the arm 130 can be located on the base 110 proximally with respect to the post 120. Said another way, in some embodiments, the arm 130 can be located toward or adjacent the proximal end 113 of the base 110, and the post(s) 120 can be located toward the distal end 111 of the base 110. More specifically, in some embodiments (as shown in
Such an arrangement can allow for facile coupling of the medical article 60 to the bracket 102, for example, by first abutting the surface S against the distal end(s) 121 of the post(s) 120, and then positioning a more proximal portion of the medical article 60 adjacent the free end 136 of the arm 130, and sliding (e.g., laterally) the portion of the medical article 60 under the arm 130 and into the channel 132. Such action can be accomplished very easily and with a minimal number of steps or forces exerted on the medical article 60, the patient's skin 50, or the insertion site 65. For example, with reference to the catheter system 60 of
In addition, in some embodiments, as shown in the embodiment of
Whether the arm 130 and the post(s) 120 are spaced longitudinally apart, the arm 130 and the post(s) 120 can be arranged such that at least a portion of the medical article extends, longitudinally with respect to the base 110, adjacent the post 120 (e.g., on a lateral side of at least one post 120) and through the channel 132 defined by the arm 130 when the medical article 60 is coupled to the bracket 102.
Typically, the post(s) 120 are not located tightly adjacent the distal end 111 of the base 110 to allow a distal portion of the first major surface 112 of the base 110 to be exposed to support at least a portion of the medical article 60 (e.g., the catheter hub 64).
In order to minimize the forces necessary to couple the medical article adjacent the post(s) 120, the post(s) can be configured to be free of any radially-extending projections (e.g., adjacent its upper end) that may otherwise need to be snapped into place in or over a portion of the medical article 60.
As shown for the posts 120, the term “post” is generally used to refer to a structure that is open on all sides, such that the posts 120 are not coupled to other elements of the bracket 102 on their sides. Rather, portions of the medical article 60 can be positioned on all sides of each post 120, if necessary. In addition, as shown for the arms 130, the term “arm” is generally used to refer to a structure that extends a distance in a direction substantially parallel to the first major surface 112 of the base 110, and does not generally refer to small round nubs, detents or protuberances.
As further shown in
In some embodiments, as shown in
In some embodiments, as shown in
As described above, and as illustrated in
As shown, the first channel 132 and the second channel 125 can be oriented generally along (i.e., parallel to or overlapping) the longitudinal axes A and A′ of the medical article 60 and the base 110, respectively, such that each channel 132, 125 can be referred to as a “longitudinal channel.” In some embodiments, the first channel 132 and the second channel 125 can be generally aligned, for example, such that their respective lateral centers are aligned with each other, and optionally, further aligned with the longitudinal axis A′ of the base 110.
In some embodiments, the plurality of posts are centered about a lateral width W′ of the base 110 at the longitudinal position where the posts 120 are located (see
The plurality of posts 120 can function to receive at least a portion of the medical article 60 therebetween, in the second channel 125, which can further inhibit lateral movement of at least the portion received in the second channel 125 when the medical article 60 is coupled to the bracket 102. The plurality of posts 120 and the arm 130 can further be arranged such that at least a portion of the medical article 60 extends longitudinally with respect to the base 110, through the second channel 125 and through the first channel 132 when the medical article 60 is coupled to the bracket 102.
As shown in
As shown, the second channel 125 can be upwardly-opening, such that the upper ends of the posts 120 are not connected and such that the second channel 125 is open at its top and closed at its bottom, adjacent the base 110, such that at least a portion of the medical article 60 can be slid vertically downwardly between the posts 120 toward the base 110 without necessarily engaging the posts 120 in any type of snap-fit engagement for facile coupling and decoupling of the medical article 60 to and from the bracket 102. That is, the second channel 125 can have a closed lower end, adjacent the first major surface 112 of the base 110, and an open upper end through which at least a portion of the medical article 60 can enter the second channel 125 to be positioned toward or against the base 110 between the plurality of posts 120. In such embodiments, the second channel 125 can have a gutter or canal configuration, which can contribute to the facile coupling and decoupling of the medical article 60 to the bracket 102 described above.
As shown in
As mentioned above, the land 140 can function together with the arm 130 to retain at least a portion of the medical article 60 in the channel 132 under the arm 130, such that the land 140 can further inhibit vertical and/or lateral movement of the medical article 60 when the medical article 60 is coupled to the bracket 102. That is, in some embodiments, the arm 130 and the land 140 can together inhibit vertical movement of at least a portion of the medical article 60.
As shown in
In some embodiments, the land 140 can include other features that can help retain at least a portion of the medical article 60. For example, as shown in
In addition, as shown, in some embodiments, the first major surface 112 defined by one or both of the first portion 142 and the second portion 144 of the land 140 can include one or more grooves 148, which can be separated by one or more leveled areas or ridges (or protrusions) 149. Particularly, in the embodiment of
The grooves 148 and/or ridges 149 can be configured to receive and/or retain (e.g., in a snap-type engagement) at least a portion of the medical article 60, such as a catheter, tube, or the like. Such engagement (e.g., snap-type) can allow the portion of the medical article 60 to be coupled to the bracket 102 with audible and/or tactile feedback without requiring moving parts that are subject to wear and failure. Such snap-type engagements would be distinct from radially-extending projections on the posts 120 that need to be forced into internal openings in the medical article 60 which, as described above, would require unnecessary and excessive forces (e.g., applied in a vertical direction relative the first major surface 112 of the base 110) to couple and decouple the medical article 60 to and from the bracket 102. In some embodiments, the grooves 148 and/or the ridges 149 are located proximally with respect to the posts 120 and are positioned more proximally on the base 110. As a result, incorporating a snap-type engagement with the grooves 148 and/or ridges 149 is less likely to disrupt the insertion site 65. In addition, snap-type engagement in the grooves 148 and/or ridges 149 generally does not require excessive pulling forces or pushing forces in a direction that would disrupt the insertion site 65 or cause excessive pulling or pressure on the patient's skin 50.
In some embodiments, one of the ridges 149 located adjacent the free end 136 of the arm 130 can function (e.g., along with the retaining feature 138 at the free end 136 of the arm 130, and/or along with the ridge 147) to retain the medical article 60 in the channel 132 by inhibiting movement (e.g., lateral movement) of the medical article 60 in the direction of the free end 136 of the arm 130.
As shown by way of example only in
In some embodiments, the land 140 can have a uniform height along its length, even if the land 140 includes separate portions. However, in some embodiments, the first portion 142 and the second portion 144 of the land 140 can have different heights. For example, in some embodiments, the height of the second (e.g., proximal) portion 144 can be greater than the first (e.g., distal) portion 142.
In some embodiments, at least a portion of the first major surface 112, for example, the portion defining the first major surface 112 of the grooves 148 (or another portion of the land 140), can be formed of a different material than a remainder of the base 110. Such a material can include a friction control material of a higher coefficient of friction to enhance the friction (e.g., resistance) between the medical article 60 and at least a portion of the first major surface 112 to further inhibit movement (e.g., longitudinal movement) of the medical article 60 when the medical article 60 is coupled to the bracket 102. More particularly, in some embodiments, at least a portion of the land 140 (e.g., the grooves 148) can be formed of a first material, and the remainder of the first major surface 112 of the base 110 can be formed of a second material, where the first material and the second material are different. In some embodiments, the first material can include a friction control material having a higher coefficient of friction than the second material. For example, the first material can be configured to frictionally engage and/or retain at least a portion of the medical article 60 (e.g., the portion retained in the grooves 148). In such embodiments, the coefficient of friction between the medical article 60 and the first material can be greater than the coefficient of friction between the medical article 60 and the second material. In some embodiments, the friction control material can be provided by the indicia 108, such as when the indicia 108 is co-molded with the remainder of the base 110 onto the first major surface 112 of the base 110 (or to form a portion of the first major surface 112 of the base 110).
The recessed area 145, ridge 147, grooves 148 and ridges 149 are described above as being formed in the land 140; however, it should be understood that such recessed areas 145, ridges 147, grooves 148 and/or ridges 149 can be employed in other areas of the first major surface 112 instead of, or in addition to, those formed in the land 140. That is, even in embodiments that do not employ a land 140 or raised area, the first major surface 112 can still include features (e.g., recesses, grooves, ridges, etc.) that can enhance the retention of at least a portion of the medical article 60.
In some embodiments, the first major surface 112 can be shaped to conform to at least a portion of the medical article 60. For example, the recessed area 145 can be shaped to receive at least a portion of the medical article 60. In other embodiments, the first major surface 112 can include any variety of ridges, recesses or contours necessary to enhance the coupling of the medical article 60. For example, in some embodiments, the first major surface 112 can include a shape that is complementary to the shape (e.g., an external shape) of at least a portion of the medical article 60. This way, the first major surface 112 of the base 110 can be configured to accommodate the medical article 60, such that the medical article 60 is placed against the first major surface 112 of the base 110 (i.e., on top of the base 110) in use, rather than ever passing under the base 110. That is, the base 110 presents a substantially solid and continuous (except for openings or perforations, as described below) surface from which the posts 120 and the arm 130 can project and against which the medical article 60 can be positioned. In some embodiments, the first major surface 112 can further include an adhesive (e.g., located longitudinally between the posts 120 and the arm 130 and/or distally with respect to the posts 120) to better secure the medical article 60 to the first major surface 112 of the base 110.
In some embodiments, the base 110 can include one or more openings or perforations 150 formed therethrough, which can improve the permeability and breathability of the bracket 102 and the overall system 100. In some embodiments, as shown in
As shown in
In some embodiments, as shown in
In some embodiments, the post(s) 120 can be located in the first portion 152 of the bracket 102 (or the base 110), and the arm 130 can be located in the second portion 154 of the bracket 102. As mentioned above, in some embodiments, the second portion 154 can include the arm 130 and the land 140.
In some embodiments, the length L of the base 110 (e.g., the distance between the distal end 111 to the proximal end 113, as shown in
Additional exemplary embodiments of brackets of the present disclosure will now be described with respect to
The bracket 202 includes many similarities with the bracket 102 of
Similar to the embodiment of
Each of the arms 230A, 230B is coupled to the base 210 and extends generally parallel to the first major surface 212 of the base 210, and each arm 230A, 230B is spaced a vertical distance from the first major surface 212 to define a channel 232A, 232B (e.g., a first channel 232A, 232B) under the arm 230A, 230B, respectively. Rather than extending outwardly from the base 210, in some embodiments, as shown, each arm 230A, 230B can be positioned in an at least partially overlapping relationship with the base 210, such that at least a portion of the arm 230A, 230B extends over the first major surface 212 of the base 210.
Each channel 232A, 232B can be dimensioned to receive at least a portion of the medical article 60 (e.g., a more proximal portion than the portion positioned adjacent the post(s) 220) between the respective arm 230A, 230B and the base 210. Two arms 230A and 230B are shown by way of example only, but it should be understood that as many arms 230 as necessary for a given medical article 60 can be employed. As shown, each arm 230A, 230B can be cantilevered and can include a pedestal 237A, 237B that defines a vertical component of the arm 230A, 230B and a horizontal projection 239A, 239B that is cantilevered from the respective pedestal 237A, 237B and defines a horizontal component of the arm 230A, 230B, such that the horizontal projection 239A, 239B is spaced a vertical distance from the first major surface 212 of the base 210 by the pedestal 237A, 237B to accommodate a portion of the medical article 60 of interest. The projection 239A, 239B can be considered to include the fixed end 234A, 234B and the free end 236A, 236B. The projection 239A, 239B can extend generally parallel with respect to the first major surface 212 of the base 210, such that the projection 239A, 239B and the pedestal 237A, 237B are oriented substantially perpendicularly with respect to one another.
When the medical article 60 is coupled to the bracket 202 and a portion thereof is positioned in the channels 232A and 232B defined by the arms 230A and 230B, respectively, the arms 230A and 230B can be configured to inhibit movement of the medical article 60 in at least a direction that is generally normal to the first major surface 212 of the base 210, i.e., to inhibit the medical article 60 from being pulled away from a patient's skin. Depending on the orientation of the arms 230A and 230B with respect to the longitudinal axis A″ of the base 210, the arm 230A, 230B can also inhibit movement of the medical article 60 in other directions (e.g., lateral or oblique) when the medical article 60 is coupled to the bracket 202.
In the embodiment illustrated in
In some embodiments, as shown, one arm (e.g., the first arm 230A) can have has its fixed end (e.g., the fixed end 234A) on a first lateral side 227 (e.g., the left side of
In some embodiments, the arms 230 can be identical, and in some embodiments, as shown, the arms 230 need not be identical or of the same dimensions (e.g., the projections 239A and 239B need not have the same length). As shown, in some embodiments, the first arm 230A can be longer than the second arm 230B, which can facilitate coupling the medical article 60 to the bracket 202, and specifically, can facilitate positioning at least a portion of the medical article 60 under each arm 230A, 230B into the respective channel 232A, 232B. In addition, by way of example only, the free ends 236A and 236B of the arms 230A and 230B are illustrated as passing one another, such that the arms 230 overlap or cross. The configuration and relative sizing of the arms 230 of the bracket 202 are shown by way of example only, and other configurations or relative sizes can be employed. For example, in some embodiments, the second arm 230B can be longer than what is shown, and in some embodiments, the arms 230 do not necessarily overlap. Furthermore, the arms 230A and 230B are illustrated as being substantially parallel with respect to one another, but this need not be the case.
The arms 230 are illustrated as being separated a longitudinal distance from one another (i.e., from an adjacent arm 230), and additionally, from the posts 220. By way of example only, the second arm 230B is illustrated as being approximately centered longitudinally between the posts 220 and the first arm 230A; however, other arrangements are possible.
In some embodiments, one or more of the arms 230 (e.g., the first arm 230A) can include a retaining feature (e.g., a protrusion, a nub, a rib, or the like) 238 adjacent its free end (e.g., the free end 236A) which can at least partially inhibit the medical article 60 from being removed from the channel 232A after it has been positioned in the channel 232. That is, the retaining feature 238 can inhibit movement of the medical article 60 in a direction toward the free end (e.g., the free end 236A) of the arm 230 and generally opposite, or away from, the pedestal (e.g., the pedestal 237A) or the fixed end (e.g., the fixed end 234A). The first arm 230A is illustrated as including the retaining feature 238, but it should be understood that neither or both of the arms 230 can include a retaining feature 238 instead.
As shown, in some embodiments, the posts 220 and the arms 230 can be fixed with respect to the base 210 and to each other. In the embodiment of
As mentioned above, by way of example only, the land 240 includes only one portion, namely, a proximal portion 244 comprising a distal end 241 and a proximal end 243, and both the distal end 241 and the proximal end 243 are located proximally with respect to the first arm 230A, such that the first arm 230A is located distally with respect to the land 240. The land 240 can function together with at least the first arm 230A to retain at least a portion of the medical article 60 in the channel 232A under the first arm 230A, such that the land 240 can further inhibit vertical and/or lateral movement of the medical article 60 when the medical article 60 is coupled to the bracket 202. That is, in some embodiments, the first arm 230A and the land 240 can together inhibit vertical movement of at least a portion of the medical article 60.
As mentioned above, the first major surface 212 defined by the land 240 is illustrated as including one or more grooves 248, which can be separated by one or more leveled areas or ridges (or protrusions) 249. Particularly, by way of example only, the grooves 248 are illustrated as being laterally-spaced longitudinal grooves 248 separated by longitudinal leveled areas or ridges (or protrusions) 249. The grooves 248 and/or ridges 249 can be configured to receive and/or retain (e.g., in a snap-type engagement) at least a portion of the medical article 60, such as a catheter, tube, or the like. Such engagement (e.g., snap-type) can allow the portion of the medical article 60 to be coupled to the bracket 202 with audible and/or tactile feedback without requiring moving parts that are subject to wear and failure. In some embodiments, one of the ridges 249 located adjacent the free end 236A of the first arm 230A can function (e.g., along with the retaining feature 238 at the free end 236A of the first arm 230A) to retain the medical article 60 in the channel 232A by inhibiting movement (e.g., lateral movement) of the medical article 60 in the direction of the free end 236A of the first arm 230A.
The bracket 302 includes many similarities with the bracket 202 of
Each arm 330A, 330B includes a fixed end 334A, 334B and a free end 336A, 336B, and similar to the bracket 202 of
In some embodiments, the arms 330 can be identical, and in some embodiments, as shown, the arms 330 need not be identical or of the same dimensions. As shown, in some embodiments, the first arm 330A can be longer (and/or larger in other dimensions) than the second arm 330B, which can facilitate coupling the medical article 60 to the bracket 302, and specifically, can facilitate positioning at least a portion of the medical article 60 under each arm 330A, 330B into the respective channel 332A, 332B. In addition, by way of example only, the free ends 336A and 336B of the arms 330A and 330B are illustrated as passing one another, such that the arms 330 overlap or cross. The configuration and relative sizing of the arms 330 of the bracket 302 are shown by way of example only, and other configurations or relative sizes can be employed. For example, in some embodiments, the second arm 330 can be shorter or longer than what is shown, and in some embodiments, the arms 330 do not necessarily overlap. Furthermore, the arms 330A and 330B are illustrated as being substantially parallel with respect to one another, but this need not be the case.
The arms 330 are illustrated as being separated a longitudinal distance from one another (i.e., from an adjacent arm 330), and additionally, from the posts 320. By way of example only, the second arm 330B is illustrated as being approximately centered longitudinally between the posts 220 and the first arm 330A; however, other arrangements are possible.
As shown, in some embodiments, the posts 320 and the arms 330 can be fixed with respect to the base 310 and to each other. In the embodiment of
While not illustrated in
The bracket 402 includes a base 410 having a first major surface 412, a distal end 411 and a proximal end 413; one post 420 having a distal end 421 and a proximal end 423; two arms 430 (a first arm 430A that defines a channel 432A (e.g., a first channel 432A), and a second arm 430B that defines a channel 432B (e.g., a first channel 432B)); and a plurality of openings or perforations 450 formed through the base 410. The base 410 (or the bracket 402 or a system comprising the bracket 402) can also include or define a longitudinal axis A″″ (see
The bracket 402 has a different overall shape and configuration (e.g., the shape of the base 410) than the other brackets described above and illustrated in
While not illustrated in
The bracket 402 includes a greater number of openings or perforations 450 formed through the base 410, particularly, between the post 420 and the distal end 411 of the base 410. In addition, the first major surface 412, particularly, in the region between the distal end 411 of the base 410 and the post 420 can be configured to receive at least a portion of the medical article 60′, such as, for example, the catheter hub 64′.
Similar to the brackets described above, the bracket 402 includes a substantial length in the longitudinal direction (e.g., along the longitudinal axis A″″) to receive the medical article 60′ (or a portion thereof) and to inhibit the bracket 402 from delaminating from other elements of a system (e.g., a base dressing) during use, and to enhance the stability of the bracket 402 on a patient's skin, particularly in the longitudinal direction in which the medical article 60′ extends.
By way of example only, the bracket 402 includes no raised areas or lands, or ramped or sloped surfaces, but rather, is substantially flat. However, it should be understood that the bracket 402 can include any of the above-described land structures, grooves, recesses, ramped surfaces, or the like to enhance retention of the medical article 60′.
The post 420, and particularly, the distal end 421 of the post 420 can be configured to abut an external surface (e.g., the surface S′) of the medical article 60′, similar to the above-described posts. However, unlike the above-described posts, the post 420 is singular and also provides a pedestal 437 to each of the arms 430A and 430B. The post 420 can therefore inhibit at least longitudinal movement of the medical article 60′ (e.g., proximally) when the medical article 60′ is coupled to the bracket 402.
The arms 430 are illustrated as having a rounded shape, which can enhance the retention of tube-like structures on the medical article 60′, such as the input catheters 62′, as shown in
Each arm 430A and 430B is coupled (e.g., fixedly) to the base 410 and is spaced a vertical distance from the first major surface 412 to define the respective channel 432A, 432A under the arm 430A, 430B, respectively. Each arm 430A, 430B includes a fixed end 434A, 434B and a free end 436A, 436B. Rather than extending outwardly from the base 410, in some embodiments, as shown, each arm 430A, 430B can be positioned in an at least partially overlapping relationship with the base 410, such that at least a portion of the arm 430A, 430B extends over the first major surface 412 of the base 410.
In addition, in some embodiments, as shown in
In addition, as shown, in some embodiments, the arms 430A and 430B, and particularly, the fixed ends 434A, 434B of the arms 430A and 430B can be located proximally with respect to the distal end 421 of the post 420, or no further distally than the distal end 421 of the post 420.
Each channel 432A, 432B can be dimensioned to receive at least a portion of the medical article 60′ (e.g., a more proximal portion than the portion positioned adjacent the post(s) 420) between the respective arm 430A, 430B and the base 410. Two arms 430A and 430B are shown by way of example only, but it should be understood that as many arms 430 as necessary for a given medical article 60′ can be employed.
When the medical article 60′ is coupled to the bracket 402 (as shown in
In the embodiment illustrated in
Unlike the brackets 202 and 302 described above, the arms 430A, 430B of the bracket 402 do not overlap or cross one another. Rather, the arms 430A, 430B extend from the post 420 in opposite directions. By way of example only, the post 420 is illustrated as being located generally centrally with respect to the base 410, and the free end 436A of the first arm 430A extends from the post 420 generally toward a first lateral side 427 (e.g., the left side of
As further shown, in some embodiments, the arms 430A, 430B can be located directly adjacent the post 420, and particularly, directly adjacent the distal end 421 of the post 420, such that the post 420 and the arms 430 are not separated a longitudinal distance apart. Because of this arrangement, in some embodiments, abutting the external surface S′ of the medical article 60′ adjacent the distal end 421 of the post 420 can occur substantially simultaneously with positioning a portion of the medical article 60′ (e.g., the input catheters 62′) in the first channels 432A, 432B defined by the arms 430A, 430B. Such action can be accomplished very easily and with a minimal number of steps or forces exerted on the medical article 60′, the patient's skin (e.g., the skin 50 illustrated in
The phrase “substantially simultaneously” is intended to include where one action occurs almost immediately before after another action, as well as when two actions occur exactly simultaneously, or when one action also accomplishes one or more additional actions.
As shown, in some embodiments, the arms 430 can be identical and symmetrical (e.g., about the longitudinal axis A″″), and the arms 430 extend outwardly from the post 420 at the same longitudinal position. However, this need not necessarily be the case. For example, in some embodiments, the arms 430 may not be identical in shape or size, and/or the post 420 may not be centered with respect to the base 410, and/or the arms 430 may extend from the post 420 at different longitudinal positions along longitudinal length of the post 420. In addition, in some embodiments, a plurality of first arms 430A and/or a plurality of second arms 430B can be employed, and the post 420 can extend longer in the longitudinal direction than the post 420 illustrated in
Furthermore, in some embodiments, the post 420 can actually be separated into two posts 420 separated a lateral distance apart, for example, to define a channel (like the second channel 125) therebetween that can be dimensioned to receive at least a portion of a medical article (e.g., a middle catheter of a three-input catheter system, similar to the medical article 60 shown in
As shown, in some embodiments, the post 420 and the arms 430 can be fixed with respect to the base 410 and to each other. In the embodiment of
The bracket 502 includes a base 510 having a first major surface 512, a distal end 511 and a proximal end 513; two posts 520 defining a channel 525 (e.g., a second channel 525) therebetween, each post 520 having a distal end 521 and a proximal end 523; two arms 530; a land 540 located adjacent (i.e., proximally with respect to the distal end 521 of the posts 520) the posts 520 and the arms 530; a plurality of grooves 548 and/or ridges 549 formed in the first major surface 512 defined by the land 540; and a plurality of openings or perforations 550 formed through the base 510. The base 510 (or the bracket 502 or a system comprising the bracket 502) can also include or define a longitudinal axis A′″″ (see
The bracket 502 has a different overall shape and configuration (e.g., the shape of the base 510) than the other brackets described above and illustrated in
The bracket 502 includes a first arm 530A located toward a first lateral side 527 (e.g., on the left side of
Each arm 530A, 530B includes a fixed end 534A, 534B coupled to or provided by the post 520, and a free end 536A, 536B. That is, each post 520 can provide a pedestal 537 for an arm 530. In addition, each arm 530A, 530B includes a horizontal projection 539A, 539B that extends substantially parallel to the first major surface 512 of the base 510, such that the horizontal projection 539A, 539B is substantially perpendicular to the respective post 520 (i.e., the pedestal 537). Each horizontal projection 539A, 539B can be considered to include the fixed end 534A, 534B and the free end 536A, 536B. By way of example only, each arm 530A, 530B is illustrated as extending generally distally from the post 520, but the fixed end 534A, 534B of each arm 530A, 530B is located no further distally than the distal end 521 of its respective post 520 (i.e., pedestal 537). In some embodiments, as shown, one or more of the posts 520 and one or more of the arms 530 can be provided by the same structure, such that each post 520 and at least one arm 530 are integrally formed. Two arms 530A and 530B are shown by way of example only, but it should be understood that as many arms 530 as necessary for a given medical article can be employed.
When the medical article 60 is coupled to the bracket 502 (as shown in
As mentioned above, each arm 530A and 530B extends generally longitudinally with respect to the longitudinal axis A′″″ of the base 510 (or the bracket 502 or a system comprising the bracket 502) and further with respect to the longitudinal axis A of the medical article 60 when the medical article 60 is coupled to the bracket 502. As such, the fixed ends 534A, 534B are fixed longitudinal ends 534A, 534B, and the free ends 536A, 536B are free longitudinal ends 536A, 536B.
Unlike the brackets 202 and 302 described above, the arms 530A, 530B of the bracket 502 do not overlap or cross one another. Rather, the arms 530A, 530B extend in the same direction, generally parallel to one another. As shown, in some embodiments, the arms 530 can be identical and symmetrical (e.g., about the longitudinal axis A′″″), and the arms 530 can extend outwardly from the posts 520 at the same longitudinal position and at symmetrical lateral positions. However, this need not necessarily be the case. For example, in some embodiments, the arms 530 may not be identical in shape or size, and/or the posts 520 may not be centered with respect to the base 510, and/or the arms 530 may extend from the posts 520 at different longitudinal positions or asymmetrical lateral positions.
The distal ends 521 of the posts 520 can be configured to abut the external surface S of the medical article 60 to inhibit at least longitudinal (e.g., proximal) movement of the medical article 60 when the medical article 60 is coupled to the bracket 502. In addition, the arms 530 can be configured to inhibit at least vertical movement of the medical article 60, i.e., away from the base 510 and a patient's skin.
As further shown, in some embodiments, the arms 530A, 530B can be located directly adjacent the post 520, and particularly, directly adjacent the distal end 521 of the post 520, such that the posts 520 and the arms 530 are not separated a longitudinal distance apart. Because of this arrangement, in some embodiments, abutting the external surface S of the medical article 60 adjacent the distal ends 521 of the posts 520 and positioning at least a portion of the medical article 60 (e.g., the middle input catheter 62) in the second channel 525 defined between the posts 520 can occur substantially simultaneously with positioning a portion of the medical article 60 (e.g., the catheter hub 64) in the first channel 532 defined by the arms 530A, 530B. Such action can be accomplished very easily and with a minimal number of steps or forces exerted on the medical article 60, the patient's skin (e.g., the skin 50 illustrated in
As mentioned above, the bracket 502 can further include a land 540 located laterally adjacent the posts 520 and the arms 530 and proximally (or no further distally) with respect to the distal ends 521 of the posts 520. The height of the land 540 can be configured to allow at least a portion of the medical article 60 (e.g., the catheter hub 64) to rest flat against the flat portion of the base 510 located proximally with respect to the post 520, and to allow a portion of the medical article 60 (e.g., the input catheters 62) to pass adjacent the posts 520 and the arms 530.
As mentioned above, the land 540 can be further configured to retain at least a portion of the medical article 60, for example, by including one or more grooves 548 and/or ridges 549 (e.g., longitudinal grooves and/or ridges) dimensioned to receive at least a portion of the medical article 60 (e.g., the input catheters 62). The grooves 548 and/or the ridges 549 can be configured to inhibit at least lateral movement of the medical article 60 when the medical article 60 is coupled to the bracket 502.
While not illustrated in
The bracket 502 includes a plurality of openings or perforations 550 formed through the base 510 for enhance permeability and breathability. By way of example only, the perforations 550 are formed through the base 510 across an area located between the free ends 536A, 536B of the arms 530A, 530B and the distal end 511 of the base 510. In addition, the first major surface 512, particularly, in the region between the distal end 511 of the base 510 and the post 520 can be configured to receive at least a portion of the medical article 60, such as, for example, the catheter hub 64.
As shown, in some embodiments, the posts 520 and the arms 530 can be fixed with respect to the base 510 and to each other. In the embodiment of
Additional details regarding systems and methods of the present disclosure can be found in co-pending U.S. Application No. 61/695,878, filed Aug. 31, 2012, which is incorporated herein by reference.
As mentioned above, some embodiments of the systems of the present disclosure can include a flap, such as the flap 106 shown in
The flaps of the present disclosure can be flexible, particularly, relative to the brackets of the present disclosure, and the brackets can be relatively rigid, relative to the flaps. The flaps can therefore provide a more pliable and compliant element to the systems of the present disclosure to complement and supplement the structural rigidity and integrity of the brackets. The robustness of the brackets of present disclosure can offer facile, reliable, repeatable and secure coupling and decoupling of a medical article to the bracket, and the flaps of the present disclosure can provide additional security. The flaps of the present disclosure can also provide a certain level of flexibility depending on the specific medical article that is being coupled to the system, because the flap can be sized and configured to accommodate a variety of medical article configurations and sizes. For example, the flap can be long enough to accommodate a variety of medical articles, and can simply be pulled further over the bracket and medical article in cases of smaller medical articles. The flexibility of the flap is generally sufficient to prevent the flap from breaking (e.g., adjacent its hinge, if employed, as described below), while still being rigid enough to provide structural integrity and to inhibit movement of the medical article when the medical article is coupled to the system.
The flaps of the present disclosure can be formed of a variety of materials, including, but not limited to, at least one of a fabric, a woven fibrous web, a nonwoven fibrous web, a knit, a polymeric film, an elastomer, combinations thereof, or a laminate structure comprising any of the above. In some embodiments, the flap can include a backing (e.g., formed of any of the above-listed materials) and an adhesive (e.g., where the adhesive serves as securing means for the flap). In some embodiments, the flap can be formed from a medical tape, such as medical tapes available under the tradenames DURAPORE® and TRANSPORE® from 3M Company, St. Paul, Minn. The flaps of the present disclosure (i.e., the backing of the flap) generally needs to be sufficiently flexible to conform to a portion of the medical article 60 and sufficiently rigid to resist deformation when axial, vertical and/or lateral forces are applied. In some embodiments, the flap (i.e., the backing of the flap) can have a thickness ranging from about 1 mil (0.02 mm) to about 6 mil (0.15 mm). The securing means of the flaps should generally have sufficient adhesion to securely attach to the medical article 60 while also being able to be removed cleanly (i.e., with little to no residue, if the securing means comprises an adhesive).
Additional details regarding flaps of the present disclosure can be found in co-pending U.S. Application No. 61/695,888, filed Aug. 31, 2012, which is incorporated herein by reference.
As shown in
The flap 106 can also be positioned over the medical article 60 when in the second position P2 when the medical article 60 is coupled to the bracket 102. In the second position P2, the flap 106 can further inhibit movement of the medical article 60 relative to the bracket 102. In addition, the flap 106 is different from a separately provided piece of tape or other strip or fastener, because the flap 106 is provided by the system 100, and particularly is provided in a specific configuration and arrangement relative to the other components of the system 100 to provide facile and effective use of the flap 106. That is, the first fixed end 170 of the flap 106 can be coupled to the bracket 102 when the second free end 172 of the flap 106 is in the first position P1 and the second position P2, e.g., the flap 106 is somehow coupled to the system 100, and particularly, the bracket 102, even before the flap 106 is used.
In some embodiments, the flap 106 can be directly coupled to the bracket 102 (e.g., to an edge 103 of the bracket 102 and/or to the second major surface 114 of the bracket), and in some embodiments, the flap 106 can be indirectly coupled to the bracket 102 (e.g., coupled to or provided by another component of the system 100 that is coupled to the bracket 102, such as the base dressing 104).
In some embodiments, as shown, the flap 106 can be configured to extend laterally with respect to the longitudinal axis A′ of the bracket 102 and with respect to the longitudinal axis A of the medical article 60. In such embodiments, the flap 106 can be configured to extend from its fixed end 170 to its free end 172 across the bracket 102 and medical article 60 in a direction that is different from the direction in which the arm 130 extends from its fixed end 134 to its free end 136, e.g., in a direction substantially opposite that of the arm 130. Said another way, in some embodiments, the flap 106 can have its fixed end 170 on a first lateral side 127 (see
In the embodiment illustrated in
The system 100 is illustrated as including only one flap 106, but in some embodiments, the system 100 can include a plurality of flaps 106, and in such embodiments, the plurality of flaps 106 can together inhibit at least vertical movement of the medical article 60. In embodiments employing a plurality of flaps 106, the flaps 106 can be configured to extend across the medical article 60 and the bracket 102 in opposite directions, in the same direction, or a combination thereof. In addition, in some embodiments, at least two of the plurality of flaps 106 can be configured to overlap, intersect and/or cross (e.g., criss-cross) one another for added security. In some embodiments, the plurality of flaps 106 can include at least two flaps 106 that extend opposite one another (i.e., in opposite directions across the bracket 102) and are not spaced longitudinally apart, such that the free ends 172 of the flaps 106 directly overlap one another when in their second positions P2. Furthermore, in some embodiments employing a plurality of flaps 106, the flaps 106 can be configured to extend laterally with respect to the longitudinal axis A′ of the bracket 102 and with respect to the longitudinal axis A of the medical article 60. In such embodiments, the plurality of flaps 106 can be positioned directly adjacent one another, on top of one another, or spaced a longitudinal distance apart. For example, in some embodiments, spacing the flaps 106 longitudinally allows for the flaps 106 to be located on either side of another component of the system 100, such as the arm 130 (e.g., proximally and distally with respect to the arm 130).
As shown in
As shown in
The flap 106 can be coupled to portions of the bracket 102 or the base dressing 104, or between the bracket 102 and the base dressing 104 using a variety of coupling means including, but not limited to, one or more of adhesives, cohesives, magnets, welding (e.g., sonic (e.g., ultrasonic) welding), any thermal bonding or heat sealing technique (e.g., heat and/or pressure applied to one or both of the components to be coupled), other suitable coupling means, or combinations thereof.
In some embodiments, the flap 106 can be provided by another component of the system 100, such as the base dressing 104. For example, in some embodiments, at least a portion of the base dressing 104 can be peeled from the remainder of the base dressing 104 to function as the flap 106. By way of further example, in some embodiments, the flap 106 can be provided by an extension of the base dressing 104. In some embodiments, the flap 106 and the base dressing 104 can be integrally formed.
Additionally or alternatively, in some embodiments, the fixed end of the flap 106 can be coupled to the first major surface 112 of the base 110 of the bracket 102, such that the free end 172 of the flap 106 then overlaps the fixed end 170 when in the second position P2. Still, in some embodiments, the flap 106 (and particularly, the fixed end 170 of the flap 106) can be coupled to the base dressing 104, or a different portion of the bracket 102. In some embodiments, a combination of flap configurations can be employed together in one system.
At least the free end 172 of the flap 102, and sometimes an entire side of the flap 106, can include securing means. Such securing means can include, but are not limited to, one or more of an adhesive, a cohesive, a hook and loop fastener that mates with a pad located on another element of the system 100 (e.g., the base dressing 104 on an opposite side of the bracket 102 from the fixed end 170 of the flap 106), other suitable securing or fastening means, or combinations thereof.
The flap 106 can include a first side 176 and a second side 178 opposite the first side 176. The first side 176 (or at least a portion thereof adjacent the free end 172 of the flap 106) can be configured to face the medical article 60 and the first major surface 112 of the base 110 of the bracket 102 when the free end 172 of the flap 106 is in the second position P2. The second side 178 of the flap 106 can be configured to face away from the medical article 60 and the bracket 102 when the free end 172 of the flap 106 is in the second position P2. In some embodiments, at least a portion of the first side 176 of the flap 106 can include the securing means.
By way of example only, in the embodiment illustrated in
As mentioned above, in some embodiments, the second side 178 of the flap 106 can be coupled (e.g., adhered) to the first major surface 112 of the base 110 of the bracket 102.
As shown by way of example only, in some embodiments, the free end 172 of the flap 102 can be enlarged relative to adjacent portions of the flap 106 to facilitate grasping the free end 172. For example, as shown in
In some embodiments, as shown in
As mentioned above, the present disclosure can provide indicia for use with a medical article securement system of the present disclosure that includes a representation (e.g., a pictorial representation) of a medical article of interest, such that the indicia mimics the overall shape, appearance and/or configuration of the medical article to provide a visual cue for how to couple the medical article to the medical article securement system. Such indicia can enhance the usability of the systems of the present disclosure and can minimize operator errors when applying the systems to patients and coupling medical articles to the systems.
Such indicia can be coupled to or provided by a bracket of the system, and particularly, can be coupled to or provided by a base of the bracket.
In addition to the representation of the medical article, the indicia can include directional cues, such as arrows, to indicate how the system should be oriented relative to another device, structure, or portion of a patient's body. Base dressings of the present disclosure can also include such directional cues. For example, as shown in
The indicia can include a variety of markings, graphics, or the like, in order to represent a medical article. For example, in some embodiments, the indicia can include a two-dimensional representation of the outline, outer contours, or outer periphery of a medical article. As such, the indicia may be a simplified representation of the medical article, but it will be clear to a user how to orient the medical article relative to the system (e.g., to a bracket of the system), based on the caricature or representation of the medical article provided by the indicia.
The indicia of the present disclosure will first generally be described with respect to the indicia 108 of the embodiment of
As shown in
The mere representation of the medical article 60 in the indicia 108 defines an orientation of the medical article 60 with respect to the bracket 102 (and to the system 100); however, as mentioned above, in some embodiments, the indicia 108 can further include additional directional cues, such as arrows (e.g., the arrow 185), or the like.
As shown in
In some embodiments, the indicia 108 can be coupled to the bracket 102 (e.g., directly or indirectly). In such embodiments, the indicia 108 can be coupled either to the first major surface 112 of the base 110 or to the second major surface 114 of the base 110.
In some embodiments, the indicia 108 can be embedded within and/or integrally formed with the bracket 102. As shown in
In some embodiments, the indicia 108 can have at least one optical property that is different than at least adjacent portions of the base 110 of the bracket 102 to allow the indicia 108 to be easily seen and contrasted with other portions of the base 110. Such optical properties can include, but are not limited to, one or more of color, shade, hue, transparency/translucency/opacity, reflectance, gloss or shine, refractive index, fluorescence, other suitable optical properties, or combinations thereof. Such optical properties can typically be visually distinguishable by the naked human eye.
In some embodiments, the indicia 108 can be formed of the same or a different material (e.g., a friction control material of a higher coefficient of friction) than the at least adjacent portions of the base 110 of the bracket 102. In embodiments in which the indicia 108 is formed of a different material, the indicia 108 can be provided on the first major surface 112 of the base 110 and can be formed of a material that provides “grip” or resistance to inhibit the medical article 60 from sliding on the first major surface 112 of the base 110 when the medical article 60 is coupled to the bracket 102. For example, in some embodiments, the indicia 108 can be formed of an elastomeric material. As such, in some embodiments, the indicia 108 can further inhibit longitudinal and/or lateral movement of the medical article 60.
As mentioned above, in some embodiments, the indicia 108 can be coupled to or embedded in the bracket 102, and particularly, the base 110. Such “coupling” includes various paints, prints, pigments, dyes, or the like being painted or printed on a surface of the base 110 (e.g., the first major surface 112 or the second major surface 114, e.g., if the base 110 is transparent), as well as being co-formed (e.g., co-molded) with the bracket 102. “Embedding” may include, e.g., dyes or inks that may absorb into a surface to which it is applied.
Still, in other embodiments, the indicia 108 may be embossed or otherwise shaped into the base 110 itself, e.g., by being embossed into the first major surface 112 to form a depressed region that is easily distinguishable from its surroundings.
Additional exemplary embodiments of indicia of the present disclosure will now be described with respect to
The bracket 1302 is shown by way of example only, but it should be understood that the indicia 1308 of
The bracket 1402 is substantially the same as that of
The methods illustrated in
As shown in 21A, the single-input catheter system 60A can be coupled to the system 100 by first orienting the medical article 60A with respect to the bracket 102 as indicated by the indicia 108, such that the portions of the medical article 60A line up over their respective representations in the indicia 108. As shown in
As shown in
As shown in
As shown in 22A, the double-input catheter system 60B can be coupled to the system 100 by first orienting the medical article 60B with respect to the bracket 102 as indicated by the indicia 108, such that the portions of the medical article 60B line up over their respective representations in the indicia 108. As shown in
As further shown in
As shown in
In embodiments in which the bracket includes more than one arm 130, the above methods can be modified by moving the input catheters 62A, 62B, 62 under each of the plurality of arms 130, e.g., sequentially. In addition, in embodiments that do not employ one or more of posts 120, arms 130, a flap 106 and/or indicia 108, the above methods can be modified to eliminate the steps relating to the omitted element. Furthermore, in embodiments employing more than one flap 106, the free end of each flap 106 can simply be moved from its respective first position to its respective second position (e.g., sequentially) to further secure the medical article 60A, 60B, 60 to the system 100.
Each embodiment shown in the figures is illustrated as a separate embodiment for clarity in illustrating a variety of features of the applicators of the present disclosure. However, it should be understood that any combination of elements and features of any of the embodiments illustrated in the figures and described herein can be employed in the applicators of the present disclosure.
The following embodiments are intended to be illustrative of the present disclosure and not limiting.
1. Indicia for use with a medical article securement system, the indicia comprising a representation of a medical article, such that the indicia mimics the appearance of the medical article and provides a visual cue for coupling the medical article to the medical article securement system.
2. A medical article securement system, the system comprising:
3. The system of embodiment 2, wherein the indicia defines an orientation of the medical article with respect to the bracket.
4. The system of embodiment 2 or 3, wherein the indicia is integrally formed with the bracket.
5. The system of embodiment 4, wherein the bracket and the indicia are co-molded together, and the indicia has at least one optical property that is different than at least a portion of a remainder of the bracket.
6. The system of embodiment 5, wherein the bracket and the indicia are co-injection molded.
7. The system of any of embodiments 2-6, wherein the bracket includes:
8. The system of embodiment 7, wherein the arm includes a fixed end and a free end such that the arm is cantilevered.
9. The system of embodiment 7 or 8, wherein the arm extends generally parallel with respect to a longitudinal axis of the base.
10. The system of embodiment 7 or 8, wherein the arm extends generally laterally with respect to a longitudinal axis of the base.
11. The system of any of embodiments 7-10, wherein the bracket includes a post and an arm, and wherein the arm is located no further distally than a distal end of the post.
12. The system of any of embodiments 7-11, wherein the bracket includes a post and an arm, and wherein the arm and the post are fixed with respect to the base.
13. A method for coupling a medical article to a medical article securement system, the method comprising:
14. The method of embodiment 13, wherein the medical article securement system further includes a bracket configured to receive the medical article, wherein the indicia is located on the bracket, and wherein orienting the medical article includes orienting the medical article relative to the bracket in an orientation that matches the indicia on the bracket.
15. The method of embodiment 13 or 14, further comprising aligning the medical article with the indicia such that portions of the medical article substantially overlap portions of the indicia that represent same.
16. The method of any of embodiments 13-15, wherein coupling the medical article to the bracket includes aligning the medical article with the indicia such that portions of the medical article substantially overlap portions of the indicia that represent same.
17. The method of any of embodiments 13-16, wherein coupling the medical article to the bracket includes aligning the medical article with respect to the bracket to match the indicia.
18. The indicia of embodiment 1 or the method of any of embodiments 13-17, wherein the indicia defines an orientation of the medical article with respect to the medical article securement system.
19. The indicia of embodiment 1 or 18 or the method of any of embodiments 13-18, wherein the medical article securement system includes a bracket configured to retain at least a portion of the medical article, the bracket comprising:
20. The indicia or method of embodiment 19, wherein the bracket includes a post, and wherein the indicia includes a portion located directly adjacent the post.
21. The method of embodiment 19, wherein coupling the medical article to the medical article securement system includes positioning at least a portion of the medical article on the base and at least one of:
22. The method of embodiment 19 or 21, wherein the bracket includes a post and an arm, and wherein coupling the medical article to the medical article securement system includes:
23. The method of any of embodiments 19, 21 and 22, wherein the channel is a first channel, wherein the post is one of a plurality of posts, wherein each post is separated a lateral distance from an adjacent post to define a second channel therebetween, the second channel oriented generally along the longitudinal axis and dimensioned to receive at least a portion of the medical article, and further comprising:
24. The method of embodiment 23, wherein passing a portion of the medical article through the second channel occurs prior to positioning a portion of the medical article under the arm.
25. The method of embodiment 23, wherein passing a portion of the medical article through the second channel occurs substantially simultaneously to positioning a portion of the medical article under the arm.
26. The method of any of embodiments 23-25, wherein the bracket includes a post and an arm, and wherein coupling the medical article to the medical article securement system includes abutting a first portion of the medical article against the post, and wherein abutting a portion of the medical article against the post occurs substantially simultaneously with passing a portion of the medical article through the second channel.
27. The indicia of embodiment 19 or 20, the system of any of embodiments 2-12 or the method of any of embodiments 19-26, further comprising a base dressing having a first side and a second side opposite the first side, the second side comprising a skin-contact adhesive, wherein the bracket includes a first major surface and a second major surface opposite the first major surface, and wherein the second major surface of the bracket is coupled to the base dressing.
28. The indicia of any of embodiments 19, 20 and 27, the system of any of embodiments 2-12 and 27, or the method of any of embodiments 19-27, wherein the bracket is configured to inhibit at least longitudinal movement of the medical article when the medical article is coupled to the system.
29. The indicia, system or method of embodiment 28, wherein the bracket is further configured to inhibit at least one of vertical movement and lateral movement of the medical article when the medical article is coupled to the system.
30. The indicia of any of embodiments 19, 20 and 27-29, the system of any of embodiments 7-12 and 27-29, or the method of any of embodiments 19-29, wherein the medical article includes a catheter system comprising a catheter hub and a catheter, and wherein the indicia includes a representation of a catheter hub located adjacent the post and a representation of a catheter passing under the arm.
31. The indicia of any of embodiments 19, 20 and 27-30, the system of any of embodiments 7-12 and 27-30, or the method of any of embodiments 19-30, wherein at least a portion of the indicia is located adjacent the post.
32. The indicia of any of embodiments 19, 20 and 27-31, the system of any of embodiments 7-12 and 27-31, or the method of any of embodiments 19-31, wherein at least a portion of the indicia is located adjacent the arm.
33. The indicia of any of embodiments 19, 20 and 27-32, the system of any of embodiments 7-12 and 27-32, or the method of any of embodiments 19-32, wherein the bracket includes an arm, and wherein the base includes a land located adjacent the arm, such that at least a portion of the medical article can be threaded over the land and under the arm when the medical article is coupled to the bracket, and wherein at least a portion of the indicia is located on or adjacent the land.
34. The indicia, system or method of embodiment 33, wherein the land includes a first portion and a second portion, wherein the arm is located between the first portion and the second portion of the land, and wherein at least a portion of the indicia is located on or adjacent the first portion and the second portion of the land.
35. The indicia, system or method of embodiment 33 or 34, wherein the first major surface defined by the land includes at least one of a groove and a ridge, and wherein at least a portion of the indicia is located on or adjacent the at least one of a groove and a ridge.
36. The indicia of any of embodiments 19, 20 and 27-35, the system of any of embodiments 7-12 and 27-35, or the method of any of embodiments 19-35, wherein the bracket includes both a post and an arm, wherein the channel is a first channel, wherein the post is one of a plurality of posts, and wherein each of the plurality of posts is separated a lateral distance from an adjacent post to define a second channel therebetween, the second channel oriented generally parallel to longitudinal axis and dimensioned to receive at least a portion of the medical article, and wherein at least a portion of the indicia is located adjacent each of the plurality of posts.
37. The indicia of any of embodiments 19, 20 and 27-36, the system of any of embodiments 7-12 and 27-36, or the method of any of embodiments 19-36, wherein the post is configured such that at least a portion of the medical article is located laterally and longitudinally adjacent the post when the medical article is coupled to the bracket, and wherein at least a portion of the indicia is located laterally and longitudinally adjacent the post.
38. The indicia of any of embodiments 19, 20 and 27-37, the system of any of embodiments 7-12 and 27-37, or the method of any of embodiments 19-37, wherein bracket includes an arm, wherein the arm is one of a plurality of arms, and wherein at least a portion of the indicia is located adjacent each of the plurality of arms.
39. The indicia of any of embodiments 19, 20 and 27-38, the system of any of embodiments 7-12 and 27-38, or the method of any of embodiments 19-38, wherein the first major surface of the base includes at least one of a groove and a ridge, and wherein at least a portion of the indicia is located adjacent the at least one of a groove and a ridge.
40. The indicia of any of embodiments 19, 20 and 27-39, the system of any of embodiments 7-12 and 27-39, or the method of any of embodiments 19-39, wherein at least a portion of the indicia is located on or adjacent the first major surface of the base.
41. The indicia of any of embodiments 19, 20 and 27-40, the system of any of embodiments 7-12 and 27-40, or the method of any of embodiments 19-40, wherein the base includes a first portion where the first major surface of the base is located at a first height and a second portion where the first major surface is located at a second height, and wherein at least a portion of the indicia is located on or adjacent the first portion and the second portion of the base.
42. The indicia of any of embodiments 1, 18-20 and 27-41, the system of any of embodiments 2-12 and 27-41, or the method of any of embodiments 13-41, wherein the medical article includes a catheter system comprising a catheter hub and a catheter, and wherein the indicia includes a representation of a catheter hub and a catheter.
43. The indicia of any of embodiments 1, 18-20 and 27-42, the system of any of embodiments 2-12 and 27-42, or the method of any of embodiments 13-42, wherein the indicia includes a pictorial representation of the medical article.
44. The indicia of any of embodiments 1, 18-20 and 27-43, the system of any of embodiments 2-12 and 27-43, or the method of any of embodiments 13-43, wherein the indicia includes a two-dimensional representation of the medical article.
45. The indicia of any of embodiments 1, 18-20 and 27-44, the system of any of embodiments 2-12 and 27-44, or the method of any of embodiments 13-44, wherein the indicia includes a representation of the outer contours of the medical article.
46. The indicia of any of embodiments 1, 18-20 and 27-45, the system of any of embodiments 2-12 and 27-45, or the method of any of embodiments 13-45, wherein the indicia includes a representation of the outer periphery of the medical article.
47. The indicia of any of embodiments 1, 18-20 and 27-46, the system of any of embodiments 2-12 and 27-46, or the method of any of embodiments 13-46, wherein the indicia is sized similarly to the medical article.
48. The indicia of any of embodiments 1, 18-20 and 27-47, the system of any of embodiments 2-12 and 27-47, or the method of any of embodiments 13-47, wherein the indicia includes printed graphics.
49. The indicia of any of embodiments 1, 18-20 and 27-48, the system of any of embodiments 2-12 and 27-48, or the method of any of embodiments 13-48, wherein the indicia includes an embossed surface.
The embodiments described above and illustrated in the figures are presented by way of example only and are not intended as a limitation upon the concepts and principles of the present disclosure. As such, it will be appreciated by one having ordinary skill in the art that various changes in the elements and their configuration and arrangement are possible without departing from the spirit and scope of the present disclosure.
All references and publications cited herein are expressly incorporated herein by reference in their entirety into this disclosure.
Various features and aspects of the present disclosure are set forth in the following claims.
Priority is hereby claimed to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 61/695,892, filed Aug. 31, 2012.
| Number | Date | Country | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 61695892 | Aug 2012 | US |
