The present disclosure relates generally to the field of strap ties, and more specifically to apparatuses, systems, and methods relating to strap ties.
Wounds, such as cuts and lacerations in skin and flesh, are often difficult to close in order to properly treat and heal the wound. Bandages may be used to cover a wound. Wounds may be approximated (i.e., edges of wounds drawn together) using sutures, staples, clips, or topical adhesives. Over time, a wound and/or tissue associated with the wound may retract, reopen, or otherwise lose structural integrity. In some cases, clinical/surgical facilities are not readily accessible for treating a wound.
According to an aspect of the present disclosure, a strap tie assembly includes a first strap tie including a first base, a first body, and a first strap extending from the first body. The first base is configured to be disposed adjacent to a first portion of skin. The first body includes a first opening and a first engagement member disposed within the first opening. The first strap includes a first proximal end attached to the first body, a first distal end opposite the first proximal end, and a plurality of first movement restriction members disposed along a surface of the first strap. The strap tie assembly also includes a second strap tie including a second base, a second body, and a second strap extending from the second body. The second base is configured to be disposed adjacent to a second portion of skin. The second body includes a second opening and a second engagement member disposed within the second opening. The second strap includes a second proximal end attached to the second body, a second distal end opposite the second proximal end, and a plurality of second movement restriction members disposed along a surface of the second strap. The first opening is configured to receive the second strap, and the first engagement member is configured to engage at least one of the plurality of second movement restriction members of the second strap to prevent translation of the second strap away from the first body. The second opening is configured to receive the first strap, and the second engagement member is configured to engage at least one of the plurality of first movement restriction members of the first strap to prevent translation of the first strap away from the second body.
According to another aspect of the present disclosure, a method of attaching a strap tie system includes detachably securing a first strap tie adjacent to a first portion of skin. The first strap tie includes a first body, a first strap extending from the first body, and a first base extending from the first body. The first body includes a first opening configured to receive a strap and a first engagement member disposed within the first opening. The first strap includes a plurality of first movement restriction members. The method includes detachably securing a second strap tie adjacent to a second portion of skin. The second strap tie includes a second body, a second strap extending from the second body, and a second base extending from the second body. The second body includes a second opening configured to receive a strap and a second engagement member disposed within the second opening. The second strap includes a plurality of second movement restriction members. The method includes receiving the first strap in the second opening. The method includes receiving the second strap in the first opening. The method includes engaging the first engagement member with a candidate second movement restriction member of the second plurality of movement restriction members to prevent translation of the second strap away from the first body. The method includes engaging the second engagement member with a candidate first movement restriction member of the first plurality of movement restriction members to prevent translation of the first strap away from the second body. The candidate first movement restriction member and the candidate second movement restriction member are selected to apply an even amount of force on either side of a wound between the first portion of skin and the second portion of skin.
According to yet another aspect of the present disclosure, a strap tie for securing a wound includes a body, an engagement member, a strap extending from the body, and a base extending from the body. The body includes an opening configured to receive a strap of a remote strap tie. The engagement member is disposed within the opening and configured to engage one of a plurality of movement restriction members of a remote strap tie in order to prevent translation of the remote strap tie away from the body. The strap includes a proximal end attached to the body, a distal end opposite the proximal end, and a plurality of movement restriction members configured to be engaged by an engagement member of a remote strap tie. The base is configured to be disposed adjacent to a portion of skin.
According to yet another aspect of the present disclosure, a strap tie assembly includes a first strap tie and a second strap tie. The first strap tie includes a first base configured to be disposed adjacent to a first portion of skin. The first base can define a first plurality of openings. The first strap tie includes a first body including a first receiving channel and a first engagement member. The first strap tie includes a first strap extending from the first body, the first strap including a first proximal end attached to the first body, a first distal end opposite the first proximal end, and a plurality of first movement restriction members disposed along a surface of the first strap. The first strap defines a first longitudinal axis. The second strap tie includes a second base configured to be disposed adjacent to a second portion of skin. The second base can define a second plurality of openings. The second strap tie includes a second body including a second receiving channel and a second engagement member. The second strap tie includes a second strap extending from the second body, the second strap including a second proximal end attached to the second body, a second distal end opposite the second proximal end, and a plurality of second movement restriction members disposed along a surface of the second strap. The second strap defines a second longitudinal axis. The first receiving channel is configured to receive the second strap. The first engagement member is configured to be rotated about a first rotational axis parallel to the second longitudinal axis to engage at least one of the plurality of second movement restriction members of the second strap to prevent translation of the second strap away from the first body. The second receiving channel is configured to receive the first strap. The second engagement member is configured to be rotated about a second rotational axis parallel to the first longitudinal axis to engage at least one of the plurality of first movement restriction members of the first strap to prevent translation of the first strap away from the second body.
According to yet another aspect of the present disclosure, a strap tie includes a base configured to be disposed adjacent to a portion of skin. The base can define a plurality of openings. The strap tie includes a body including a channel and an engagement member. The strap tie includes a strap extending from the body. The strap include a proximal end attached to the body, a distal end opposite the proximal end, and a plurality of movement restriction members defining a longitudinal axis. The channel is configured to receive a remote strap. The engagement member is configured to be rotated about a rotational axis parallel to a longitudinal axis of the remote strap to engage a movement restriction member of the remote strap to prevent translation of the remote strap away from the body.
According to yet another aspect of the present disclosure, a strap tie assembly includes a first strap tie and a second strap tie. The first strap tie includes a first base configured to be disposed adjacent to a first portion of skin. The first base can define a first plurality of openings. The first strap tie includes a first body including a first receiving channel and a first engagement member. The first strap tie includes a first strap extending from the first body. The first strap defines a first longitudinal axis. The second strap tie includes a second base configured to be disposed adjacent to a second portion of skin. The second base can define a second plurality of openings. The second strap tie includes a second body including a second receiving channel and a second engagement member. The second strap tie includes a second strap extending from the second body. The second strap defines a second longitudinal axis. The first receiving channel is configured to receive the second strap. The first engagement member is configured to be rotated about a first rotational axis parallel to the second longitudinal axis to engage one the second strap to prevent translation of the second strap away from the first body. The second receiving channel is configured to receive the first strap. The second engagement member is configured to be rotated about a second rotational axis parallel to the first longitudinal axis to engage the first strap to prevent translation of the first strap away from the second body.
Some or all of the systems, components, and subcomponents of the present disclosure can be single-use or disposable. Also some or all of the systems, components, and subcomponents of the present disclosure can be made of a unitary construction (formed from a single piece of metal, plastic, or other material) or unitary modular construction (plurality of components and/or subcomponents permanently connected by standard means, such as welding or soldering), or of modular construction (plurality of components and/or subcomponents removably connected by standard means, such as threading or snap-fitting).
These and other features of various embodiments can be understood from a review of the following detailed description in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.
It is to be understood that both the foregoing general description and the following detailed description are explanatory and are not restrictive of the present disclosure, as claimed.
The following detailed description and the appended drawings describe and illustrate various strap tie systems, methods, and components. The description and drawings are provided to enable one of skill in the art to make and use one or more strap tie systems and/or components, and/or practice one or more methods. They are not intended to limit the scope of the claims in any manner.
The use of “e.g.” “etc.,” “for instance,” “in example,” and “or” and grammatically related terms indicates non-exclusive alternatives without limitation, unless otherwise noted. The use of “optionally” and grammatically related terms means that the subsequently described element, event, feature, or circumstance may or may not be present/occur, and that the description includes instances where said element, event, feature, or circumstance occurs and instances where it does not. The use of “attached” and “coupled” and grammatically related terms refers to the fixed, releasable, or integrated association of two or more elements and/or devices with or without one or more other elements in between. Thus, the term “attached” or “coupled” and grammatically related terms include releasably attaching or fixedly attaching two or more elements and/or devices in the presence or absence of one or more other elements in between. As used herein, the terms “proximal” and “distal” are used to describe opposing axial ends of the particular elements or features being described in relation to anatomical placement.
In existing solutions to treat wounds, uneven forces applied across the wound limit the efficacy of wound healing, such as by causing scars to form. The present solution provides systems, methods, and apparatuses for applying an even amount of force across a wound in order to more effectively heal the wound and limit scar formation. The present solution includes a strap tie assembly including a first strap tie and a second strap tie. The first strap tie includes a first base configured to be disposed adjacent to a first portion of skin, a first body including a first opening and a first engagement member disposed within the first opening, and a first strap extending from the first body. The first strap includes a first proximal end attached to the first body, a first distal end opposite the first proximal end, and a plurality of first movement restriction members disposed along a surface of the first strap. The second strap tie includes a second base configured to be disposed adjacent to a second portion of skin, a second body including a second opening and a second engagement member disposed within the second opening, and a second strap extending from the second body. The second strap includes a second proximal end attached to the second body, a second distal end opposite the second proximal end, and a plurality of second movement restriction members disposed along a surface of the second strap. The first opening is configured to receive the second strap, and the first engagement member is configured to engage one of the plurality of first movement restriction members of the first strap to prevent translation of the first strap away from the second body. The second opening is configured to receive the first strap, and the second engagement member is configured to engage one of the plurality of first movement restriction members of the first strap to prevent translation of the first strap away from the second body. In this way, the tie strap assembly can provide an even amount of force across a wound. The strap tie assembly may include features such as handles, grips, friction elements, etc., which facilitate manipulation of the strap tie assembly in environments where blood, oil (e.g., lipids), or other fluids could impair manipulation. While the present disclosure illustrates use of the strap tie assembly in the context of wound closure, in various embodiments, strap tie assemblies and components thereof may be used in various applications, including but not limited to general use for securing a surface or multiple surfaces; for drawing or pulling surfaces together; for securing homogenous or heterogeneous surfaces; for applying tension to a surface or multiple surfaces; etc.
Referring to
In some embodiments, the first body 112 includes a pair of first openings 118, 120. The first body 112 includes a pair of first engagement members 122, 124. The first engagement member 122 is disposed within the first opening 118 and the first engagement member 124 is disposed within the first opening 120. Similarly, the second body 212 includes a pair of second openings 218, 220. The second body 212 includes a pair of second engagement members 222, 224. The second engagement member 222 is disposed within the second opening 218 and the second engagement member 224 is disposed within the second opening 220. While the figures illustrate bodies such as first body 112 and second body 212 as including a pair of openings and a pair of engagement members, in various embodiments, various numbers of openings and engagement members may be used (e.g. 1 opening, more than 2 openings, 1 engagement member, more than 2 engagement members, etc.).
In some embodiments, an opening, such as first openings 118, 120 or second openings 218, 220, is disposed such that a path passing through the opening is generally parallel to a longitudinal axis defined by a strap, such as the first strap 116 or the second strap 216. In some embodiments, an opening, such as first openings 118, 120 or second openings 218, 220, is disposed such that a face of the opening is perpendicular to the longitudinal axis defined by the strap. For the sake of clarity, the two openings will be referred to as upper and lower openings (e.g. first lower opening 118, first upper opening 120, second lower opening 218, second upper opening 220), based on the frame of reference shown in
In some embodiments, the plurality of movement restriction members (e.g., movement restriction members 126, movement restriction members 226, etc.) includes a plurality of ridges. The ridges may define a plurality of grooves (e.g., recesses, cavities, etc.). In some embodiments, the plurality of movement restriction members (e.g., movement restriction members 126, movement restriction members 226, etc.) includes a plurality of holes; a corresponding engagement member (e.g., engagement member 122, etc.) may include a hook or other structure configured to engage a hole.
Referring back to
Each of the pair of first openings 118, 120 is configured to receive the second strap 216. Each of the pair of first engagement members 122, 124 is configured to engage one of the plurality of second movement restriction members 226 of the second strap 216. For example, as shown in
The engagement between an engagement member and a movement restriction member, such as between the first engagement member 124 and the second movement restriction member 226, can prevent translation of the second strap 216 away from the first body 112. For example, the engagement may only allow the second strap 216 to move in a single direction relative to the first body 112, such that the second body 212 can only be drawn towards the first body 112 as the second strap 216 is received through one of the first openings 118, 120.
Each of the pair of second openings 218, 220 is configured to receive the first strap 116. Each of the pair of second engagement members 222, 224 is configured to engage one of the plurality of first movement restriction members 126 of the first strap 116. For example, as shown in
In some embodiments, a strap (e.g., first strap 116, second strap 216, etc.) is received by a corresponding opening by first passing the distal end of the strap through the corresponding opening, followed by passing the length of the strap through the opening up to a particular movement restriction member.
Similar to the engagement between the first engagement members 122, 124 and the second movement restriction members 226, the engagement between the second engagement members 222, 224 and the first movement restriction members 126 can prevent translation of the first strap 116 away from the second body 212. For example, the engagement between the first engagement members 122, 124 and the second movement restriction members 226 may only allow the first strap 116 to move in a single direction relative to the second body 212. As such, the first body 112 can only be drawn towards the second body 212 as the first strap 116 is received through one of the second openings 218, 220. Stated in other words, such an engagement prevents translation of the first strap 116 away from the second body 212 by preventing a motion between the first strap 116 and the second body 212 in which the first strap tie 110 and the second strap tie 210 are separated and/or in which the first body 112 and the second body 212 are drawn away from each other.
Similarly, the engagement between the second engagement members 222,224 and the first movement restriction members 126 may only allow the second strap to move in a single direction relative to the second body 212. As such, the second body 212 can only be drawn towards the first body 112 as the second strap 216 is received through one of the first openings 118, 120. Stated in other words, such an engagement prevents translation of the second strap 216 away from the first body 112 by preventing a motion between the second strap 216 and the first body 112 in which the second strap tie 210 and the first strap tie 110 are separated and/or in which the first body 112 and the second body 212 are drawn away from each other.
In some embodiments, an engagement member such as engagement member 222 is configured to removably engage a corresponding movement restriction member 126. For example, the engagement member 222 may be mechanically coupled to a release member that disengages the engagement member 222 from the movement restriction member 126 when the release member is actuated.
In some embodiments, the first strap tie 110 includes a first handle 136 disposed at the first distal end 130 of the first strap 116. As shown in
In some embodiments, similar to the first strap tie 110, the second strap tie 210 includes a second handle 236 disposed at the second distal end 230 of the second strap 216. As shown in
Handles, such as the first handle 136 and the second handle 236 may include a high-friction surface, such as a surface with ridges or other protrusions, facilitating gripping of the handles by a user. Handles may include a grip shaped to conform to the hand of a user, such as a pistol grip. Handles may be integrally formed with associated straps, such as being extruded as a single piece. Handles may be detachably coupled by having complementary mating features with associated straps. For example, a handle may include a male protrusion configured to engage a female receiver provided on a distal end of a corresponding strap, or vice versa. A strap may be provided with a universal receiver or a universal protrusion, allowing the strap to be engaged to a variety of handles.
In some embodiments, the first strap tie 110 includes an attachment member configured to attach the first strap tie 110 to a portion of skin (e.g., a first portion of skin along a first side of a wound), such as an attachment member 134 disposed proximate to the base 114. The attachment member 134 may secure the strap tie 110 to the portion of skin. In some embodiments, the attachment member 134 may detachably secure, attach, or otherwise couple the strap tie 110 to the portion of skin. For example, the attachment member 134 can be an adhesive or staple that is removable and therefore can detachably secure the strap tie 110 to the portion of the skin. The attachment member 134 can secure the strap tie 110 temporarily. In some embodiments, the strap tie 110 can be permanently secured to the portion of skin (e.g., detachably secured, removably secured, temporarily secured, permanently secured, etc.). As shown in
Similar to the first strap tie 110, in some embodiments, the second strap tie 210 includes an attachment member configured to attach the second strap tie 210 to a portion of skin (e.g., a second portion of skin along a second side of a wound), such as an attachment member 234 disposed proximate to the base 214. The attachment member 234 may secure the strap tie 210 to the portion of skin. In some embodiments, the attachment member 234 may detachably secure, attach, or otherwise couple the strap tie 210 to the portion of skin. For example, the attachment member 234 can be an adhesive or staple that is removable and therefore can detachably secure the strap tie 210 to the portion of skin. The attachment member 234 can secure the strap tie 210 temporarily. In some embodiments, the strap tie 210 can be permanently secured to the portion of skin (e.g., detachably secured, removably secured, temporarily secured, permanently secured, etc.). As shown in
In some embodiments, as shown in
In some embodiments, the straps 116, 216 can be substantially parallel even when they include flexible material. For example, the strap tie assembly 100 may undergo transient perturbations in configuration, orientation, shape, etc. during use; nevertheless, over time the straps 116, 216 will remain substantially parallel as described above.
In some embodiments, the straps 116, 216 are drawn taut once received by an opening in an opposing strap tie (e.g. strap ties 110, 210), because the distance between the first body 112 and the second body 212 corresponds to the lengths of the segments of the straps 116, 216 that are disposed between the first body 112 and the second body 212 (e.g., in an inner/interior region of the strap tie assembly 100).
In some embodiments, the first body 112 and the second body 212 are disposed on a region of skin (e.g. a region of skin including a first portion of skin, a wound, and a second portion of skin) that includes a curved profile. The first strap 116 and the second strap 216 may be substantially parallel by maintaining straight paths (e.g., paths of shortest distance) between the first body 112 and the second body 212 once received by the appropriate opening in an opposing strap tie. In some embodiments, substantially parallel includes a tolerance of a small difference in angle between the vectors defined by two components (e.g. less than 30 degrees, less than 20 degrees, less than 10 degrees, less than 5 degrees, less than 1 degree, etc.).
Referring now to
In some embodiments, similar to the first base 114, the second base 214 includes a second base extension 242 extending between a second proximal base end 238 and a second distal base end 240. The second proximal base end 238 is disposed proximate to the second body 212 of the second strap tie 110. The second base 214 may include a second base holder 244 protruding from a length of the second base extension 242. The second base holder 244 includes a groove (e.g., hole, cavity, recess, depression, etc.) such as a groove 246 configured to hold a second base attachment member 248. The second base attachment member 248 may be similar in structure and function to the attachment member 234 shown in
As shown in
The first base extension 142 extends in a direction substantially opposite to that of the first strap 116 (e.g., the first strap 116 extends from the first body 112 towards the second body 212 so that the second body 212 may receive the first strap 116, whereas the first base extension 142 extends away from the second body 212).
Similar to the first base extension 142, the second base extension 242 extends in a direction generally parallel to the portion of the first strap 116 disposed between the second body 212 and the second distal end 130 of the first strap 116 (e.g., an outside portion of the first strap 116) when the first strap 116 has been received by and passed through the second body 212. The second base extension 242 similarly extends in a direction perpendicular to a plane defined by one or both of the faces of the second openings 218, 220. The second base extension 242 extends in a direction generally opposite the second strap 216 (e.g., the second strap 216 extends from the second body 212 towards the first body 112 so that the first body 112 may receive the second strap 216, whereas the second base extension 242 extends away from the first body 112).
Referring now to
In some embodiments, the first base 114 has been secured to a first portion of skin disposed on one side of a wound, and the second base 214 has been secured to a second portion of skin disposed on another side of a wound; drawing the first strap 116 and the second strap 216 apart (e.g., in opposite directions) results in the wound being drawn together to be closed, as the first portion of skin and the second portion of skin are drawn together due to force applied to the first base 114 and the second base 214 via the first strap 116 and the second strap 216.
In some embodiments, the interaction between the engagement members of the strap ties 110, 210 (e.g., engagement members 122, 124, 222, 224 shown in
In some embodiments, the movement restriction members 126 and/or the movement restriction members 226 are spaced in a specific pattern, allowing the manipulation of the strap ties 110, 210, and thus the force applied across a wound, to be controlled and adjusted in a specific manner. For example, in some embodiments, the movement restriction members proximate to a body (e.g., the first movement restriction members 126 of first strap 116 proximate to the first body 112 of the first strap tie 110, etc.) may be spaced apart by relatively large amounts, allowing for the strap to be translated in relatively large amounts through a remote body, while the movement restriction members distal from the body may be spaced apart by relatively small amounts, allowing for the strap to be translated in relatively small amounts through the remote body. In some embodiments, the movement restriction members are spaced apart equally.
Referring now to
As shown in
In some embodiments, the movement restriction members 126 are disposed at an angle, facilitating an engagement with the engagement member 122 in which the remote strap (e.g., strap 216 shown in
Referring now to
Referring further to
Referring now to
The first body 312 may include an engagement member disposed in each of the first left opening 318 and the first right opening 320, such as an engagement member 324. The second body 412 may include an engagement member disposed in each of the second left opening 418 and the second right opening 420. Engagement members of the strap tie assembly 300, such as the engagement member 324, are similar in structure and function to the engagement members of the strap tie assembly 100.
As shown in
Referring now to
In some embodiments, the first inner body 512 includes a first inner opening 518 for receiving the second strap 616, and the first outer body 513 includes a first outer opening 520 for receiving the second strap 616 once the second strap 616 has been received through the first inner opening 518. Similarly, the second inner body 612 includes a second inner opening 618 for receiving the first strap 516, and the second outer body 613 includes a second outer opening 620 for receiving the first strap 516 once the first strap 516 has been received through the second inner opening 618. As such, each strap tie may include a pair bodies. As shown in
In some embodiments, the first inner body 512 and the second inner body 612 are provided as movable elements that allow for disengagement (e.g., loosening, decoupling, separating) of the first strap tie 510 from the second strap 616, and/or for disengagement of the second strap tie 610 from the first strap 516. For example, the inner bodies 512, 612 may include an engagement member (e.g., an engagement member similar to the engagement members provided for strap tie assemblies 100, 300), and the inner bodies 512, 612 may be provided as a button or other actuator such that actuation (e.g., squeezing, pushing, sliding, etc.) of the inner bodies 512, 612 disengages the engagement members from a corresponding movement restriction member (e.g. movement restriction members 526, 626). In some embodiments, the engagement members are flexible, such that they respond to actuation by the inner bodies 512, 612 by deforming or otherwise changing in shape, and thus may be disengaged from the movement restriction members 526, 626.
In some embodiments, the straps 516, 616 are oriented at an angle (e.g., a 90-degree angle, etc.) relative to the bases 514, 614. For example, as shown in
Referring now to
Referring further to
The second strap tie 810 may include a similar or identical engagement mechanism as provided for the first strap tie 710. For example, as shown in
Referring now to
The second strap tie 1010 may be similar or identical to the first strap tie 910. As shown in
Referring further to
Referring further to
Referring back to
Referring now to
Referring further to
As shown in
Referring now to
Referring further to
Referring further to
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Referring further to
Referring further to
Referring further to
In various embodiments, multiple strap tie assemblies (e.g., strap tie assemblies 100, 300, 500, 700, 900, 1100, 1300) may be used to secure and/or close a wound, such as in a strap tie grouping. For example, a first strap tie assembly 100 may be disposed across a first region of a wound in order to secure the first region of the wound, and a second strap tie assembly 300 may be disposed across a second region of a wound in order to secure the second region of the wound. The wound regions may have similar properties (e.g., cross-wound distance, healing status, etc.) and the strap tie assemblies may be drawn to similar tightness in order to apply an even amount of force across the wound. The wound regions may have different properties and the strap tie assemblies may be drawn to different tightnesses in order to apply an even amount of force across the wound. Various numbers and lengths of strap ties and strap tie assemblies may be used to secure and/or close the wound (e.g., depending on the location of the body where the wound has occurred; the curvature of the skin; the sensitivity of regions near the wound such as organs, joints, facial structures; etc.). In some embodiments, a strap tie grouping includes multiple strap ties for each side of a wound joined together. The multiple strap ties may be joined together with a tie, a line, a thread, a strip, etc. The multiple strap ties may be joined together with a strip of adhesive, such that the multiple strap ties may be held in place together and also attached to a portion of skin. In some embodiments, a strap tie grouping includes between two and five strap ties for each side of a wound.
Referring now to
Referring now to
At 1610, a first strap tie is secured adjacent to a first portion of skin on a first side of a wound, and a second strap tie is secured adjacent to a second portion of skin on a second side of a wound. The strap ties may be secured in any manner as disclosed herein (e.g., detachably secured, attached, removably coupled, etc.). The strap ties may be secured using attachment members (e.g., staples, hooks, adhesives, etc.). In various embodiments, the strap ties are secured to the portions of skin at various distances from the wound (e.g., a selected distance from the wound), in order to apply a specific amount of force and/or tension across the wound (e.g., an even amount of force across the wound). In some embodiments, a user can secure the first strap tie adjacent to the first portion of skin on the first side of the wound, and a user can secure the second strap tie adjacent to the second portion of skin on the second side of the wound. In some embodiments, a user can select the distance from the wound that at least one of the first strap tie and the second strap tie is secured to a respective portion of skin.
At 1620, each strap tie receives a strap from the other strap tie. For example, the first strap tie receives a second strap from the second strap tie, through a first opening in a first body of the first strap tie, and the second strap tie receives a first strap from the first strap tie, through a second opening in a second body of the second strap tie. In some embodiments, a user can receive the second strap from the second strap tie through the first opening in the first body of the first strap tie by drawing (e.g., pulling, threading, pushing, etc.) the second strap through the first opening. Similarly, a user can receive the first strap from the first strap tie through the second opening in the second body of the second strap tie by drawing the second strap through the second opening. In some embodiments, the strap ties are already assembled as a strap tie assembly, so that a user (e.g., a medic, a surgeon, a technician, etc.) can tighten the straps (see 1630) immediately after securing the strap tie assembly.
At 1630, candidate movement restriction members are selected for engaging with engagement members of each tie strap. For example, a first candidate movement restriction member disposed along a surface of the first strap is selected, in order to be engaged by a second engagement member of the second strap tie. Similarly, a second candidate movement restriction member disposed along a surface of the second strap is selected, in order to be engaged by a first engagement member of the first strap tie. The candidate restriction members may be selected in order to apply an even amount of force across the wound. The candidate restriction members may be selected in order to draw each strap a certain distance through an opening of the other strap. The candidate restriction members may be selected based on an effect on the portions of skin or on the wound, such as a distance between the portions of skin as the wound is closed, etc. In some embodiments, a user can select the first candidate restriction member for the first strap, and a user can select the second candidate restriction member for the second strap.
At 1640, the engagement members are engaged to the respective candidate movement restriction members. For example, the first engagement member of the first strap tie is engaged to the second candidate movement restriction member, and the second engagement member of the second strap tie is engaged to the first candidate movement restriction member. Engagement members and movement restriction members may be engaged by drawing the straps a certain distance through respective openings of the strap ties until the engagement members are aligned with/engage the appropriate movement restriction member. A user can engage the first engagement member to the second candidate movement restriction member by aligning the first engagement member with the second candidate movement restriction member and engaging, joining, attaching, or otherwise coupling the first engagement member and the second candidate movement restriction member. A user can engage the second engagement member to the first candidate movement restriction member by aligning the second engagement member with the first candidate movement restriction member and engaging, joining, attaching, or otherwise coupling the second engagement member and the first candidate movement restriction member.
At 1650, a wound status is identified. The wound status may relate to various qualities and properties of the wound, including but not limited to the health of the wound, the presence of any infections in the wound, the size of the wound (e.g., the distance between the first portion of skin on one side of the wound and the second portion of skin on the other side of the wound, etc.), any relative changes in the wound, the structural integrity of the wound (including inflation), the elasticity of the wound, tissue, or skin, etc. A user may identify the wound status, such as by observing the wound, using a sensor or other medical device to non-invasively identify properties of the wound, performing a test on the wound or material within the wound, measuring visible properties of the wound, etc.
At 1660, a determination is made as to whether the wound status is satisfactory. For example, the wound status may be satisfactory if the wound is healing properly. The wound status may be unsatisfactory if the wound is infected, if the portions of skin on either side of the wound need to be drawn more closely together, if the force applied across the wound is not even, etc. A user may determine whether the wound status is satisfactory by comparing the wound status to a heuristic, a flow chart, or any other plan or strategy relevant to wound closure and wound healing.
If the wound status is not satisfactory (e.g., unsatisfactory), then at 1670, the straps are adjusted to alter the positions of the strap ties and thus the portions of skin disposed on either side of the wound. In some embodiments, the wound status is not satisfactory because the force applied across the wound is not even. As such, at least one of the straps may be adjusted (e.g., drawn further through an opening of the other strap tie) in order to ensure that the force applied across the wound is even. A strap may be adjusted by grasping a portion of the strap (e.g., a distal end, etc.), and drawing the strap further (e.g., in a direction other than a direction in which the strap would be decoupled from the other strap tie) through the opening of the other strap tie. A user may adjust the positions of one or more strap ties by holding or otherwise grasping the strap of the strap tie, and drawing the strap further through the corresponding opening until a desired position is reached, such as a position at which the force applied across the wound is even.
If the wound status is satisfactory, then at 1680, the strap tie assembly may be removed (e.g., unsecured, desecured, etc.). For example, attachment members may be removed from the portions of skin on either side of the wound. A user may remove the attachment members manually, by using a tool for removing the attachment members, etc.
In some embodiments, adjusting the straps includes engaging the engagement members with a new candidate movement restriction member. For example, a wound status may be unsatisfactory because the force applied across the wound is not even. A new candidate first movement restriction member may be selected along the first strap, and the first strap may be adjusted by drawing the first strap further through an opening of the second strap tie, then engaging the new candidate first movement restriction member with the appropriate second engagement member. A user may identify a new candidate movement restriction member, adjust the position of the straps, and engage the engagement member to the corresponding movement restriction member.
In some embodiments, a strap tie assembly is secured across a wound in a particular order. For example, a first strap tie may be secured to a first portion of skin; next, a second strap may be received through a first opening in the first strap tie; next, the second strap tie from which the second strap extends may receive a first strap extending from the first strap tie; next, the second strap tie may be secured to a second portion of skin across a wound from the first portion of skin. In various embodiments, the order of these steps may be modified based on the availability of strap ties, the availability of attachment members, the status of the wound, the amount of time available to secure the wound, etc.
In some embodiments, the straps may be applied and reapplied from portions of skin adjacent to a wound. For example, a strap tie assembly may be used to secure a wound, then desecured (e.g., detached, removed, etc.) from the wound, then resecured (e.g., reattached, etc.) to the wound at a similar or different distance from or position relative to the wound, with a similar or different amount of force applied across the wound, etc. In some embodiments, a user may detach a strap tie assembly that was already secured to portions of skin adjacent to a wound from the portions of skin, and may reattach the strap tie assembly to the portions of skin.
Referring now to
In some embodiments, the strap tie assembly 1700 includes a first strap tie 1710 and a second strap tie 1810. The first strap tie 1710 includes a first base 1714 configured to be disposed adjacent to a first portion of skin. The first base 1714 can define a first plurality of openings 1732. The first strap tie 1710 includes a first body 1712. The first body 1712 includes a first receiving channel 1718 and a first engagement member 1720. The first strap tie 1710 includes a first strap 1716. The first strap 1716 extends from the first body 1712. The first strap 1716 includes a first proximal end 1728 attached to the first body 1712, a first distal end 1730 opposite the first proximal end 1728, and a plurality of first movement restriction members 1734 disposed along a surface of the first strap 1716. The first strap defines a first longitudinal axis 1702.
In some embodiments, the second strap tie 1810 includes a second base 1814 configured to be disposed adjacent to a second portion of skin. The second base 1814 can define a second plurality of openings 1832. The second strap tie 1810 includes a second body 1812. The second body 1812 includes a second receiving channel 1818 and a second engagement member 1820. The second strap tie 1810 includes a second strap 1816. The second strap 1816 extends from the second body 1812. The second strap 1816 includes a second proximal end 1828 attached to the second body 1812, a second distal end 1830 opposite the second proximal end 1828, and a plurality of second movement restriction members 1834 disposed along a surface of the second strap 1816. The second strap defines a second longitudinal axis.
In some embodiments, the first receiving channel 1718 is configured to receive the second strap 1816. The first engagement member 1720 can be configured to be rotated (e.g., pivoted) about a first rotational axis parallel to the second longitudinal axis to engage one of the plurality of second movement restriction members 1834 of the second strap 1816 to prevent translation of the second strap 1816 away from the first body 1712.
In some embodiments, the second receiving channel 1818 is configured to receive the first strap 1716. The second engagement member 1820 can be configured to be rotated (e.g., pivoted) about a second rotational axis 1804 parallel to the first rotational axis 1704 to engage one of the plurality of first movement restriction members 1734 of the first strap 1716 to prevent translation of the first strap 1716 away from the first body 1712.
In some embodiments, the first plurality of openings 1732 of the first base 1714 are configured to allow access to the first portion of skin through the first plurality of openings 1732. Similarly, the second plurality of openings 1832 of the second base 1814 can be configured to allow access to the second portion of skin through the second plurality of openings 1832. For example, when the first base 1714 is positioned on the first portion of skin, the first portion of skin is exposed through the first plurality of openings 1732, such that attachment or fastening members (e.g., staples, screws, adhesive members, other attachment or fastening members disclosed herein, etc.) can be secured (e.g., attached) to the skin through the first plurality of openings 1732. As shown, for example, in
In some embodiments, at least two of the first plurality of openings 1732 and/or the second plurality of openings 1832 are sized and spaced apart from one another to allow a staple to be attached to the first portion of skin through the at least two openings. For example, as shown in
In some embodiments, at least two openings 1832 are defined (e.g., positioned, located, etc.) relative to one another in a direction that is at least one of parallel to the second rotational axis 1804 or perpendicular to the second rotational axis 1804. For example, as shown in
In some embodiments, such as shown in
While
In some embodiments, as shown in
In some embodiments, the second engagement member 1820 includes an engagement feature 1872. The engagement feature 1872 is configured to engage the first strap 1716. For example, the engagement feature 1872 can be configured to be positioned adjacent to a feature of the first strap 1716 to limit or prevent translation of the first strap 1716 relative to the second engagement member 1820, such as translation that would otherwise occur in response to a force applied along a longitudinal axis of the first strap 1716. In various embodiments, the engagement feature 1872 can include a tooth, pawl, ridge, or other surface feature configured to engage (e.g., frictionally engage) the first strap 1716 and/or complementary features of the first strap 1716.
In some embodiments, the engagement feature 1872 extends in a direction transverse to the second rotational axis 1804, such that rotating the second engagement member 1820 about the second rotational axis 1804 positions the engagement feature 1872 adjacent to one of the plurality of first movement restriction members 1734 when the first strap 1716 is received in the second receiving channel 1818. In some embodiments, the engagement feature 1872 locks the first strap 1716 in place relative to the second body 1812.
In some embodiments, similar to other strap tie assemblies disclosed herein, the engagement feature 1872 can be configured to allow the first strap 1716 to translate in a first direction (e.g., towards the second body 1812) and prevent the first strap 1716 from translating in a second direction (e.g., away from the second body 1812). For example, the engagement feature 1872 can include a first surface angled in a first direction and a second surface angled in a second direction different from the first surface such that the engagement feature 1872 ratchets with respect to the first strap 1716 and/or first movement restriction members 1734 of the first strap 1716.
In some embodiments, the second engagement member 1820 includes a plurality of engagement features 1872 extending transverse to the second rotational axis 1804 and oriented sequentially along an axis parallel to the second rotational axis 1804, such that rotating the second engagement member 1820 about the second rotational axis 1804 positions the plurality of engagement features 1872 adjacent to and between a corresponding set of the plurality of first movement restriction members 1734 when the first strap 1716 is received in the second receiving channel 1818. For example, as shown in
In some embodiments, the second engagement member 1820 is rotatably attached to a second sidewall 1822 of the second body 1812. The second sidewall 1822 can be oriented transverse to the second rotational axis 1804. The second sidewall 1822 can act as a resistance surface relative to the second engagement member 1820, allowing the second engagement member 1820 to be squeezed towards the second sidewall 1822 in a two-finger operation in order to rotate the second engagement member 1820 to disengage the second engagement member 1820 from the first strap 1716. By providing a resistance surface, the second sidewall 1822 facilitates manipulation/actuation of the second engagement member 1820 without translating the entire second strap tie 1810 relative to the second portion of skin, such as a translation that would strain or tear staples used to secure the second base 1814 to the second portion of skin.
The second sidewall 1822 can be oriented perpendicular to the second base 1814 such that the second sidewall 1822 is oriented perpendicular to the second portion of skin when the second strap tie 1810 is positioned adjacent to the second portion of skin. The second sidewall 1822 can include frictional engagement features (e.g., rough surfaces, serrated surfaces, grip surfaces, etc.) configured to facilitate handling of the second strap tie 1810 and/or actuation of the second engagement member 1820. For example, the strap tie assembly 1700 may be used in environments with fluids (e.g., water, blood, etc.) that make the strap tie assembly 1700 slippery (e.g., decrease friction when handling the strap tie assembly 1700), such that the frictional engagement features mitigate such decreases in friction.
In some embodiments, the second sidewall 1822 is configured to be coupled to the second engagement member 1820. For example, the second sidewall 1822 can include a receiving member (e.g., latch, notch, etc.) configured to engage the second engagement member 1820 when the second engagement member 1820 is rotated about the second rotational axis 1804 towards the second sidewall 1822. For example, an inner surface 1848 of the second sidewall 1822 can include a receiving member configured to engage the second engagement member 1820.
In some embodiments, the second engagement member 1820 includes a second engagement wall 1864 oriented transverse to the second rotational axis 1804. The second engagement member 1820 can be configured to be rotated by applying a force against the second engagement wall 1864 in a direction towards the second sidewall 1822 of the second body 1812, the second sidewall 1822 providing a resistance surface such that the force can be applied by squeezing, pressing or pushing the second engagement wall 1864 towards the second sidewall 1822. For example, as shown in
In some embodiments, the second engagement member 1820 includes a flexible material such that a portion 1860 of the second engagement member 1820 remains fixed as the second engagement member 1820 is rotated about the rotational axis 1804. For example, the portion 1860 can include flexible plastic, rubber, etc., allowing the second engagement wall 1864 to rotate about the rotational axis 1804 while the portion 1860 remains attached to the second sidewall 1822. In other embodiments, the second engagement member 1820 is attached to the second sidewall 1822 via a rotational member, such as a hinge or pivot member, such that the portion 1860 also rotates (e.g., pivots) about the rotational axis 1804 as the second engagement member 1820 is rotated about the rotational axis 1804.
In some embodiments, the second engagement member 1820 is configured to be biased to a first position (e.g., the position of the second engagement member 1820 shown in
In some embodiments, the second engagement member 1820 is configured to be oriented in a plurality of orientations about the rotational axis 1804, including an orientation in which the second engagement member 1820 can be engaged to the first strap 1716 and an orientation in which the second engagement member 1820 is disengaged from the first strap 1716. For example, the second engagement member 1820 can include (or be attached to the second sidewall 1822 via) a pivot member or hinge. The pivot member or hinge can be configured to maintain the second engagement member 1820 in any of the plurality of orientations in the absence of force applied by a user. For example, the pivot member or hinge can include receiving members (e.g., notches, gears, etc.) allowing the second engagement member 1820 to be positioned in discrete orientations at discrete angles about the rotational axis 1804. The pivot member or hinge can be positioned flush with an interior surface of the second body 1812 such that friction between the interior surface and the pivot member or hinge counteracts gravity or other forces on the second engagement member 1820, such that the second engagement member 1820 does not move from a current orientation in the absence of an outside force greater than a threshold force, the threshold force corresponding to the friction between the interior surface and the pivot member or hinge.
In some embodiments, such as in the frame of reference shown in
Referring further to
Referring further to
Referring now to
At 1910, a first strap tie is secured adjacent to a first portion of skin on a first side of a wound, and a second strap tie is secured adjacent to a second portion of skin on a second side of the wound. The strap ties may be secured using attachment members. For example, for each strap tie, one or more attachment members (e.g., staples) can be received through selected openings of a plurality of openings of a base of the strap tie. The base can be positioned adjacent to the respective portion of skin in order to secure the strap tie to the portion of skin. In some embodiments, the base includes an adhesive surface that is positioned adjacent to the portion of skin. In some embodiments, a cover member is removed from the adhesive surface to expose the adhesive surface to attach the base to the portion of skin. In various embodiments, various numbers of attachment members can be received at the bases through the pluralities of openings secure the respective bases to the respective portions of skin. In some embodiments, a user can secure the first strap tie adjacent to the first portion of skin on the first side of the wound, and a user can secure the second strap tie adjacent to the second portion of skin on the second side of the wound.
At 1920, each strap tie receives a strap from the other strap tie. For example, the first strap tie receives a second strap from the second strap tie, through a first receiving channel in a first body of the first strap tie, and the second strap tie receives a first strap from the first strap tie, through a second receiving channel in a second body of the second strap tie. In some embodiments, a user can receive the second strap from the second strap tie through the first receiving channel in the first body of the first strap tie by drawing (e.g., pulling, threading, pushing, etc.) the second strap through the first receiving channel. Similarly, a user can receive the first strap from the first strap tie through the second receiving channel in the second body of the second strap tie by drawing the second strap through the second receiving channel.
At 1930, candidate movement restriction members are selected for engaging with engagement members of each tie strap. For example, a first candidate movement restriction member disposed along a surface of the first strap is selected, in order to be engaged by a second engagement member of the second strap tie. Similarly, a second candidate movement restriction member disposed along a surface of the second strap is selected, in order to be engaged by a first engagement member of the first strap tie. The candidate restriction members may be selected in order to apply an even amount of force across the wound. The candidate restriction members may be selected in order to draw each strap a certain distance through an opening of the other strap. The candidate restriction members may be selected based on an effect on the portions of skin or on the wound, such as a distance between the portions of skin as the wound is closed, etc. In some embodiments, a user can select the first candidate restriction member for the first strap, and a user can select the second candidate restriction member for the second strap.
At 1940, the engagement members are engaged to the respective candidate movement restriction members. For example, the first engagement member of the first strap tie is engaged to the second candidate movement restriction member, and the second engagement member of the second strap tie is engaged to the first candidate movement restriction member. Engagement members and movement restriction members may be engaged by drawing the straps a certain distance through respective openings of the strap ties until the engagement members are aligned with/engage the appropriate movement restriction member. In some embodiments, performing the engagement includes rotating an engagement member about its respective rotational axis, for example, to position an engagement feature of the engagement member adjacent to the corresponding candidate movement restriction member. A user can engage the first engagement member to the second candidate movement restriction member by aligning the first engagement member with the second candidate movement restriction member and engaging, joining, attaching, or otherwise coupling the first engagement member and the second candidate movement restriction member. A user can engage the second engagement member to the first candidate movement restriction member by aligning the second engagement member with the first candidate movement restriction member and engaging, joining, attaching, or otherwise coupling the second engagement member and the first candidate movement restriction member. A user can rotate the first engagement member and/or the second engagement member about its respective rotational axis to engage or disengage the engagement member from the corresponding strap.
At 1950, a wound status is identified. The wound status may relate to various qualities and properties of the wound, including but not limited to the health of the wound, the presence of any infections in the wound, the size of the wound (e.g., the distance between the first portion of skin on one side of the wound and the second portion of skin on the other side of the wound, etc.), any relative changes in the wound, the structural integrity of the wound (including inflation), the elasticity of the wound, tissue, or skin, etc. A user may identify the wound status, such as by observing the wound, using a sensor or other medical device to non-invasively identify properties of the wound, performing a test on the wound or material within the wound, measuring visible properties of the wound, etc.
At 1960, a determination is made as to whether the wound status is satisfactory. For example, the wound status may be satisfactory if the wound is healing properly. The wound status may be unsatisfactory if the wound is infected, if the portions of skin on either side of the wound need to be drawn more closely together, if the force applied across the wound is not even, etc. A user may determine whether the wound status is satisfactory by comparing the wound status to a heuristic, a flow chart, or any other plan or strategy relevant to wound closure and wound healing.
If the wound status is not satisfactory (e.g., unsatisfactory), then at 1970, the straps are adjusted to alter the positions of the strap ties and thus the portions of skin disposed on either side of the wound. In some embodiments, the wound status is not satisfactory because the force applied across the wound is not even. As such, at least one of the straps may be adjusted (e.g., drawn further through a channel of the other strap tie) in order to ensure that the force applied across the wound is even. A strap may be adjusted by grasping a portion of the strap (e.g., a distal end, etc.), and drawing the strap further (e.g., in a direction other than a direction in which the strap would be decoupled from the other strap tie) through the opening of the other strap tie. A strap may be adjusting by rotating the corresponding engagement member away from the strap in order to disengage the engagement member from the strap. A user may adjust the positions of one or more strap ties by holding or otherwise grasping the strap of the strap tie, and drawing the strap further through the corresponding opening until a desired position is reached, such as a position at which the force applied across the wound is even. A user may disengage the engagement member from the strap by rotating the engagement member about its rotational axis.
If the wound status is satisfactory, then at 1980, the strap tie assembly may be removed (e.g., unsecured, desecured, etc.). For example, attachment members may be removed from the portions of skin on either side of the wound. A user may remove the attachment members manually, by using a tool for removing the attachment members, etc.
While the present disclosure illustrates applications of a strap tie assembly for securing a wound, in various embodiments, a strap tie assembly may be used for various purposes, such as securing surfaces. For example, a strap tie assembly includes a first strap tie including a first base, a first body, and a first strap extending from the first body. The first base is configured to be disposed adjacent to a first surface. The first body includes a first opening and a first engagement member disposed within the first opening. The first strap includes a first proximal end attached to the first body, a first distal end opposite the first proximal end, and a plurality of first movement restriction members disposed along a surface of the first strap. The strap tie assembly also includes a second strap tie including a second base, a second body, and a second strap extending from the second body. The second base is configured to be disposed adjacent to a second surface. The second body includes a second opening and a second engagement member disposed within the second opening. The second strap includes a second proximal end attached to the second body, a second distal end opposite the second proximal end, and a plurality of second movement restriction members disposed along a surface of the second strap. The first opening is configured to receive the second strap, and the first engagement member is configured to engage one of the plurality of second movement restriction members of the second strap to prevent translation of the second strap away from the first body. The second opening is configured to receive the first strap, and the second engagement member is configured to engage one of the plurality of first movement restriction members of the first strap to prevent translation of the first strap away from the second body.
This application is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/138,067, entitled “Strap Tie System,” filed Apr. 25, 2016, which is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/734,846, entitled “Strap Tie System,” filed on Jun. 9, 2015, each of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety for all purposes.
Number | Date | Country | |
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Parent | 15138067 | Apr 2016 | US |
Child | 15175867 | US |
Number | Date | Country | |
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Parent | 14734846 | Jun 2015 | US |
Child | 15138067 | US |