SURGICAL UNDERGARMENT

Abstract

A surgical undergarment includes a garment body configured to be worn by a user, the garment body including a pair of armholes and a neckhole defining therebetween respective shoulders of the garment body, a pocket integrated with the garment body, the pocket and having an opening located on one of the shoulders of the garment body, and a closure member associated with the opening for opening and closing the opening. The opening is oriented at an upward angle between about 40 and about 60 degrees from horizontal.

Description

BACKGROUND

Technical Field

Embodiments of the invention generally fall into the category of operating room apparel and other clothing especially for operating rooms and medical settings.

Discussion of Art

It is well known that medical personnel wear specialized clothing in performance of their duties. The common appellation “scrubs,” for example, refers in general to such garments known to be worn in many medical settings. Indeed, the term “scrubs” is believed to derive from the term “scrubbing in,” the time when surgical personnel would clean and prepare themselves to enter the surgical suite.

Although no longer confined to the surgical suite, the core function of scrubs remains the same across the professions and disciplines that use them; namely, to provide an economical (at times disposable), sanitary, and relatively easy-to-clean garment. Scrubs can further serve as a barrier between any bodily fluids/contaminants of a patient and the skin of a medical provider and vice versa. Indeed, the occasional exposure to materials of biological origin often necessitates that scrubs are made of inexpensive materials should a set need to be replaced. As such, scrubs may be made of lightweight, durable, and machine-washable fabrics that are easy to clean and maintain.

Scrubs are further characterized by enabling a large freedom of movement for the wearer as healthcare providers often encounter physically demanding situations. In addition to standing for long hours at a time healthcare providers may need to: lift and/or otherwise move or assist patients; don and doff additional personal protective equipment; and, encounter large temperature variations. Thus, scrubs are designed to be comfortable to wear and are often made of breathable fabrics and have features such as elastic waistbands and drawstrings to ensure a good fit. Scrubs are also often characterized by the presence of large, loose, pockets.

In some medical settings, such as a surgical theater, typical undergarments, such as t-shirt, may be forbidden from use due to cross-contamination concerns. In the surgical suite, it is often quite cold. Also, in the process of “scrubbing in” the large pockets found in typical scrubs are often not suitable for the storage of small personal effects such as rings and other jewelry, bills, coins, credit cards, and the like, which that are typically removed and stored elsewhere during surgical procedures. Thus, there is a need for a garment that augments the function of scrubs, particularly those in surgical setting, without increasing the risk of cross-contamination and allowing for the storage of personal effects.

BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

It is an object of the invention to provide a surgical-suite compliant undergarment. In some embodiments a sleeveless tunic style garment is provided. In some embodiments, the front of the garment is secured by a full-length zipper. In certain embodiments the neck is a scoop neck. In still other embodiments, the neck may be at least one of: collarless, crew neck, v-neck, and shawl collar. In embodiments of the invention the garment is sized and cut such that no portion of the garment extends past the edges of an overtopping scrub shirt. In certain embodiments an angled zipper is placed between the neckline and the seam defining the armhole. The zipper is configured to be accessible via a single hand and opens into a shallow pocket, oriented along the axis of the zipper, typically not much larger than a credit card, wedding ring, locker key, or the like. Items placed in the pocket are thus preserved and secured out-of-the way of the person wearing the garment. In some embodiments the garment may be made from materials suitable for sterilization. In still other embodiments the garment may serve as means of providing warmth and/or insulation to a medical provider.

According to an embodiment of the present invention, an article of clothing include a garment body configured to be worn by a user, the garment body including a pair of armholes and a neckhole defining therebetween a shoulder of the garment body, and a pocket integrated with the garment body, the pocket and having an opening located on the shoulder of the garment body.

According to another embodiment of the present invention, a surgical undergarment includes a garment body configured to be worn by a user, the garment body including a pair of armholes and a neckhole defining therebetween respective shoulders of the garment body, a pocket integrated with the garment body, the pocket and having an opening located on one of the shoulders of the garment body, and a closure member associated with the opening for opening and closing the opening. The opening is oriented at an upward angle between about 40 and about 60 degrees from horizontal.

According to yet another embodiment of the present invention, an article of clothing includes a garment body configured to be worn by a user, the garment body including a pair of armholes and a neckhole defining therebetween a shoulder of the garment body, a pocket integrated with the garment body, the pocket and having an opening located on the shoulder of the garment body, and a zipper closure associated with the opening. The opening is oriented at an upward angle of about 50 degrees from horizontal. The garment body is sleeveless and is formed from a nylon spandex fabric mix, having a weight of 300-330 gsm.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 illustrates a schematic offset-front view of an embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 2 illustrates a schematic front view of an embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 3 illustrates a schematic rear view of an embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 4 illustrates a schematic right view of an embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 5 illustrates a schematic left view of an embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 6 illustrates a schematic top view of an embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 7 illustrates a schematic bottom view of an embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 8 illustrates a schematic offset-front view of an embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 9 illustrates a schematic front view of an embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 10 illustrates a schematic rear view of an embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 11 illustrates a schematic right view of an embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 12 illustrates a schematic left view of an embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 13 illustrates a schematic top view of an embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 14 illustrates a schematic bottom view of an embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 15 illustrates a schematic front view of an embodiment of the invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

The invention provides a tunic and/or tank-top style garment suitable for surgical suite usage under typical scrubs. The garment is generally shaped like a tube, is sleeveless with armholes instead, and a neck opening at top. Like scrubs, the fabric used may be a lightweight, stretchy material such as cotton, polyester, spandex, nylon, rayon, lycra, or a blend of one or more of these fabrics. In some embodiments the fabric may be knit, woven, or a combination of both. The garment is made up of several pieces of fabric that are sewn together to create the finished garment. Seams are lines of stitching that hold the fabric pieces together. Several types of stitching that may be used can include at least one of: plain, overlock, and flatlock seams. Other seams known to one of ordinary skill in the art are also possible and contemplated.

The neckline of a garment is the opening at the top of the garment through which the head is inserted. Several types of necklines can include round necklines, v-necklines, and scoop necklines. In a scoop neck, the garment has a curved neckline that dips down in the front and back, creating a scoop shape. In a v-neck style the neckline dips down in the front and back, forming a v-shape. In some embodiments there is used a band collar which is a narrow band of fabric that encircles the neck and is attached to the garment. In still other embodiments the garment may be collarless with the neckline finished with a simple binding or facing or otherwise hemmed. The hem is the bottom edge of the garment and may be finished with a decorative stitch or unfinished.

The armhole of a sleeveless garment is the opening in the garment through which the arm is inserted. It may also, sometimes, be referred to as an “arm opening.” The armhole is typically located at the side seam of the garment and is surrounded by a seam, which holds the fabric in place. The size and shape of the armhole can vary depending on the style and cut of the garment. In some cases the armhole may be finished with a decorative binding or facing.

In some embodiments that armhole may be a set-in in armhole created by sewing the sleeves into the body of the garment at the shoulder and underarm or side seam. In still other embodiments and armhole may be a dropped armhole in which the armhole is cut into a lower position on the body of the garment, creating a sloping shoulder line. The larger opening may be needed in warmer environments where an added garment needs to be minimal in coverage. In still other embodiments, a garment may use a cut-out armhole created by cutting a hole or opening into the body of garment, exposing the skin of the upper arm. In still other embodiments, the armhole may be sleeveless, a simple hole or opening in the body of the garment. In still other embodiments, the armholes may be in racerback style, cut into a “y” shape at the back of the garment with straps that extend down the back and over the shoulders.

There are several different styles of hemming that can be used to finish the edges of a garment or the fabric pieces that make up the garment. A single fold hem is created by folding the edge of the fabric over once, so that it is hidden on the inside of the garment. This is a simple and basic hemming style that is often used for lightweight or sheer fabrics. A double fold hem is created by folding the edge of the fabric over twice, so that it is hidden on the inside of the garment. This style of hemming is more durable and provides more support than a single fold hem and is often used for heavier fabrics or for garments that will be subjected to a lot of wear and tear. A blind hem is created by folding the edge of the fabric over once and then stitching it down in a way that the stitches are hidden on the inside of the garment. This style of hemming is often used for formal or dressy garments, as it creates a clean and finished look. A rolled hem is created by folding the edge of the fabric over a small amount and then rolling it under, so that it is hidden on the inside of the garment. This style of hemming is often used for lightweight or sheer fabrics, as it creates a very narrow and delicate hem. Finally, a serged hem is created by using a serger machine to finish the edge of the fabric. A serger machine is a specialized sewing machine that cuts and finishes the edge of the fabric at the same time, creating a strong and clean seam. This style of hemming is often used for garments that will be subjected to a lot of wear and tear, as it is very durable.

A zipper, as used herein, is a fastening device that consists of a series of interlocking teeth on two parallel strips of fabric, plastic, or metal. The teeth can be separated or joined by sliding a small metal or plastic tab, known as a slider, along the length of the zipper. Types of zippers contemplated herein can include: metal and plastic zippers; invisible zippers hidden by a seam thus rending the zipper invisible when closed; separating zippers which are used to completely open a garment; two-way zippers which allow for the opening of a garment from the top or bottom; coil zippers; reverse coil zippers; and, chain zippers.

The aforementioned two parallel strips of fabric, known as tape, are typically made of a durable material such as nylon or polyester. The teeth are usually made of metal or plastic and are molded onto the tape. The slider is a small, rectangular piece that is also made of metal or plastic and is used to open and close the zipper by pulling it along the teeth. Additional parts that make up a zipper can include top and bottom stops, which are small pieces of metal or plastic that hold the slider in place at the beginning and end of the zipper. There may also be a pull tab or a zipper handle, which is a small loop of fabric or a decorative object attached to the slider, making it easier to grip and move the slider along the zipper. In some embodiments of the invention, the zipper handle is of sufficient length such that a user may manipulate the zipper with a single hand. In still other embodiments, the zipper handle may be covered or otherwise locked into place so as not to move unless removed from the covering.

A zipper slider is a small, often rectangular, piece that is used to open and close a zipper by pulling it along the teeth of the zipper. A zipper slider may further comprise a body with a hollow interior with a series of grooves or channels on the outside which allow the teeth of the zipper to slide smoothly through it as it moves along the tape. A pin is a small, narrow rod that extends from the body of the slider and is used to engage the teeth of the zipper. Like the body the pin may be made of metal or plastic or other suitable material and is spring-loaded to help hold the teeth in place when the zipper is closed. The box is a small, generally rectangular, piece attached to the body of the slider and helps guide the tape and teeth of the zipper through the slider as it moves. It has a series of channels or grooves on the inside to help guide the teeth and tape.

Fabrics of various weights, weaves, and styles are contemplated. The weight of a fabric is typically measured in gsm (grams per square meter) a measure of the mass of the fabric per unit of area (which may be converted, calculated, or otherwise expressed in different units). An alternative unit is the denier which refers to the weight in grams of 9,000 meters of the fiber. The weight of a fabric can have an impact on its drape, feel, and overall appearance. Lightweight or sheer fabrics typically fall in the 50-100 gsm (6-50 denier sheer, 50-100 denier for lightweight) range and feel light and airy. Often used for summer clothing, lingerie, sheer curtains, or liners examples can include chiffon, organza, and voile. Medium-weight fabrics typically fall in the 100-200 gsm (100-300 denier) range and are commonly used in a variety of applications including dresses, blouses, and lightweight jackets. Examples can include poplin, chambray, and crepe. Heavyweight fabrics typically fall in the 200-400 gsm (300+ denier) range, are dense and sturdy, and are typically used for outerwear such as coats, jackets, and work pants. Examples include denim, canvas, and tweed. Finally, extra-heavyweight fabrics typically are 400 gsm and higher; they are characterized as very thick and heavy and are often used for upholstery, bags, and other heavy-duty applications. Examples can include leather, suede, and heavy-duty canvas. The weight of a fabric can vary depending on the type of fiber or material it is made from, yarn size, as well as the weave and finish (such as a waterproofing, wax, or oil finish, etc.) of the fabric. In some instances, several types of fabrics may be layered together to create a piece used in the construction of all or part of a garment. For example, a lightweight liner, an insulator, and a medium-weight fabric may be combined together to form the base stock from which a whole garment is created from one or more pieces of the stock. In certain embodiments of the fabric may be 330 gsm. In still other embodiments one or more fiber types, such as nylon, lycra, spandex, or polyester are combined to form a base fabric from which garment pieces may be patterned and sewn to create a garment.

There are many different types of finishes that can be applied to fabrics, each with its own specific properties and uses. Some common types of fabric finishes can include: Waterproof/water-resistant finishes applied to fabrics to make them resistant to water penetration. They are often used in outdoor gear, rainwear, and other items that need to be protected from the elements. Stain-resistant finishes help fabrics resist stains, making them easier to clean and maintain. They are often used in upholstery, table linens, and other household textiles. Wrinkle-resistant finishes help fabrics resist wrinkling, making them easier to care for and maintain. They are often used in clothing, particularly business wear and casual wear. Fire-resistant finishes applied to fabrics to make them resistant to fire and heat and often used in safety clothing, such as firefighters' gear and protective gear for industrial workers. Anti-microbial finishes help fabrics resist the growth of bacteria and other microorganisms, making them suitable for use in healthcare settings and other environments where hygiene is important. UV-resistant finishes help fabrics resist fading and deterioration caused by exposure to ultraviolet (UV) light and are often used in outdoor gear and other items that will be exposed to strong sunlight. Softening finishes are applied to fabrics to make them softer and more comfortable to the touch and are often used in clothing, particularly undergarments and loungewear. Static-resistant finishes help fabrics resist the build-up of static electricity, making them less prone to clinging or static shocks and are often used in clothing, particularly business wear and formal wear. In certain embodiments, one or more finishes are applied to the garment. In some embodiments, an anti-microbial finish that may be silver, copper, zinc, chitosan, or tea-tree oil based may be applied. In still other embodiments one or more types of waterproofing or water-resistant finish may be applied in conjunction with an antimicrobial finish. Such waterproofing/water-resistant finish may include, polyurethane coatings, fluorocarbon coatings, wax-based coatings, and silicone-based coatings.

A pocket is a small, often shallow, container that is attached to a piece of clothing, such as a shirt, jacket, or pair of pants. The basic elements of a pocket typically include: An opening which is the part of the pocket where items are inserted and removed. The opening is usually located on the outside of the garment and can be closed with a flap, zipper, snap, or other fastening mechanism. A pocket lining which is the inner surface of the pocket that touches the skin. The pocket lining can be made of the same fabric as the garment or a different fabric, such as a softer or more durable material. A pocket bag, which is the main body of the pocket where items are stored. The pocket bag can be made of the same fabric as the garment or a different fabric, depending on the desired properties of the pocket.

There are several different types of pockets that can be found on clothing, including: Side pockets that are located on the sides of the garment, usually at or near the hip. They can be open or closed with a flap or zipper. Back pockets located on the back of the garment, usually on the upper or lower half. They can also be open or closed with a flap or zipper. Front pockets located on the front of the garment, usually on the upper or lower half. They can be open or closed with a flap or zipper. Patch pockets sewn onto the surface of the garment and do not have a separate pocket bag. They are often decorative and are used for style rather than practicality. Welt pockets created by sewing a strip of fabric around the opening of the pocket, creating a welt or seam. They are often used for a more formal look and are found on jackets, blazers, and other dressy garments. Inside pockets: These pockets are located on the inside of the garment, either in the lining or the seam. They are often used for small, personal items such as keys, wallet, or phone.

Shown in FIGS. 1 and 8 are perspective front views of example embodiments of the present invention. As shown therein, in an embodiment, garment 100 is a generally tunic or tank-top shaped body with armholes 105, neckline 110, hem 115, side seams 120, and shoulders 125. The shoulders 125 refers to the space between the neckline and the armholes and can extend to the upper chest area. A vertical closure zipper 130, opens and closes garment 100. Seen in FIG. 1 on the left shoulder 125 and in FIG. 8 on the right shoulder 125 is a closure in the form of a pocket zipper 135. Pocket zipper 135 opens to a pocket (best shown in FIG. 15) configured to receive and secure one or more small personal items such as keys, rings, jewelry, a credit card, ID badge, and the like. The pocket may be made of any suitable material or weave known to those skilled in the art. Properly configured, the pocket and the pocket zipper 130 are of such size and tension so as to prevent the movement of the small personal items while the garment 100 is worn.

As further illustrated in FIGS. 2 and 9, garment 100 is visible with both armholes 105, neckline 110, hem 115, shoulders 125, closure zipper 130, and pocket zipper 135. Also better seen is that neckline 110 is a scoop neckline fitted with a band collar 111 allowing the neckline 110 to lay flat against the wearer. Armholes 105 are also cut on a curve to allow minimal chance of the garment protruding out from short sleeved scrub tops.

Shown in FIGS. 3 and 10 are schematic rear views of embodiments of the present invention. Garment 100 is visible with both armholes 105, neckline 110, band collar 11, hem 115, and shoulders 125. Shown in FIGS. 4, 5, 11 and 12 are schematic side view of embodiments of the present invention. Garment 100 is visible with a respective armhole 105. Depending on the embodiment, also visible is pocket zipper 135 on its respective shoulder 125. Further visible is side seam 120 and shoulder seam 126. Shown in FIGS. 6 and 13 are schematic top views of embodiments of the present invention. Garment 100 is visible with respective armholes 105, shoulders 125, shoulder seams 126, neckline 110 with band collar 111, closure zipper 130, and pocket zipper 135. Shown in FIGS. 7 and 14 are schematic bottom views of embodiments of the present invention. Garment 100 is visible with armholes 105, hem 115, neckline 110, closure zipper 130 and pocket zipper 135.

Turning now to FIG. 15, a schematic front view of an embodiment of the present invention is shown, with one side open showing the interior back-side behind the pocket zipper 135 and illustrating the pocket 136. The pocket bag is secured to the back side of the pocket zipper 135 with the body of the bag sewn at the perimeter 137 to the interior surface 138 of the garment as an inside pocket that is secured. Securing the pocket bag to the interior surface of the garment further prevents the distracting movement of the small personal items stored therein. Securing the pocket 136 further prevents excess movement of the fabric and rubbing, thus preventing excess wear, although a detached pocket bag is also possible and contemplated and within the scope of this disclosure.

As shown in FIG. 15, pocket 136 has a top pocket edge 139 that follows the contour of the shoulder 125 and in line with the angle of the pocket zipper 135. The boundary seam that defines the perimeter 137 fully surrounds the pocket bag but does not extend to or overlap the edge of armhole 105. The corners of the seam defining the perimeter 137 are rounded with acute corners defining the start of the pocket edge 139. The lower third of the pocket 136 is generally rectangular and may be configured to fit an identification card, credit card, radio frequency identification tag, and the like. The upper portion of pocket 136 is further defined by the profile of the shoulders 125 and the armhole 105 forming a roughly triangular area above the rectangular lower portion. In certain embodiments the overall length defined by the long edge of the pocket may be between about 5-8 inches with the overall width at the bottom of the rectangular portion between about 4-7 inches. In certain embodiments the pocket edge 139 may be between about 5-9 inches and may be longer than the length of the pocket zipper 135. In an embodiment, the longest length of the pocket 136 (the long edge) is 8 inches on the outside border of the pocket, 5 inches on the inside length of the pocket, has a width of 3.5-4 inches across the bottom, and a 4.5 inch opening on the top.

In certain embodiments the pocket zipper 135 is located between about 0.125-1 inch below the pocket edge 139. In still other embodiments the pocket zipper 135 is generally aligned or parallel with the pocket edge 139. The alignment of the pocket zipper 135 with the pocket edge 139 and with the contour of the shoulder 125 allows for an operator to grasp and operate the pocket zipper 135 with a single hand, open the pocket zipper 135 and place one or more personal effects into the pocket 136 and re-seal without significant displacement of the garment 100 such as twisting or pulling. The garment 100 when properly configured fits underneath a typical “scrub” top with no portions showing or otherwise visible.

In some embodiments garment 100 has set-in armholes 105 that are serged. Neckline 110 is a scoop style neckline with a lay-flat band collar 111 composed of fabric made with a different weave and/or material from the main garment 100 body. The hem 115 is likewise flat and serged. In an embodiment, closure zipper 130 extends vertically from hem 115 to the bottom of scoop neckline 110 and is used to open and close the garment 100 for donning and doffing. In an embodiment, as disclosed above, pocket zipper 135 is located at the shoulder 125 and extends at an upward angle away from the closure zipper 130. In an embodiment, the pocket zipper 135 may be oriented at an angle between about 40 and about 60 degrees from horizontal (about 50 and about 30 degrees from vertical). In an embodiment, the pocket zipper 135 is oriented at an angle between about 40 and about 50 degrees from horizontal (about 50 and about 40 degrees from vertical). In an embodiment, the pocket zipper 135 is oriented at about 50 degrees from horizontal (and 40 degrees from vertical). This particular angle has been discovered to allow for easy access to the pocket zipper 135 and the contents of the pocket 136, while ensuring that small items stowed within the pocket 136 do not fall out when the zipper closure 135 is opened.

In an embodiment, the zipper closure 135 and thus the opening of the pocket 136 is between about 4 and about 6 inches in length, and more preferably, between about 4 and about 5 inches in length. In an embodiment, the zipper closure 135 and thus the opening of the pocket 136 is about 4.5 inches in length.

In use, a wearer with a single hand in the course of “scrubbing in” can engage the zipper handle of pocket zipper 135 and place small personal items into the pocket. Garment 100 may be made of various types and thicknesses of fabrics to accommodate more warm or cold temperatures. In an embodiment, the fabric is a nylon spandex fabric mix, having a weight of 300-330 gsm, which provides for warmth, breathability, sweat wicking and flexibility. The overall shape and proportions of garment 100 may change without departing from the broader spirit of the invention.

Though not shown directly in the Figures, additional embodiments of the invention can include long, ¾ length, or short sleeves attached to the armholes. Additional versions may further include the incorporation of the elements of a brassier such as cups, straps, underwires, or other elements to help cover and support the breasts such as are known in the art. Additional embodiments may further include what is commonly termed a “sports bra” that contains extra support and protection for usage during levels of physical exertion greater than sedentary activities.

Moreover, it is contemplated that the garment 100 can have a pocket 136 and associated closure zipper 135 located on the left or right shoulders, or on both shoulders.

The present invention therefore provides a novel means of stowing small personal items such as keys, credit cards, ID badges, rings and other jewelry and the like in a secure but accessible manner. Importantly, by locating and orienting the pocket zipper 135 on the shoulder of the garment 100, the pocket 136 and contents thereof are still accessible through the neck opening of a wearer's scrubs (which are worn over garment 100). Due to the location and orientation of the pocket 136 and zipper closure 135, the items stowed within the pocket 136 are held securely and are not at risk of inadvertently falling out during movement and/or bending over.

While closure 135 is illustrated as a zipper closure, the present invention is not intended to be so limited in this regard. In particular, it is contemplated that closure 135 of pocket 136 may take any form known in the art such as, for example, zippers, snaps, clasps, magnets, Velcro and the like.

As used herein, an element or step recited in the singular and proceeded with the word “a” or “an” should be understood as not excluding plural of said elements or steps, unless such exclusion is explicitly stated. Furthermore, references to “one embodiment” of the present invention are not intended to be interpreted as excluding the existence of additional embodiments that also incorporate the recited features. Moreover, unless explicitly stated to the contrary, embodiments “comprising,” “including,” or “having” an element or a plurality of elements having a particular property may include additional such elements not having that property. Terms of degree such as “about” or “approximately” are understood by those of skill in the art to reflect those tolerances reflective by human or machine manufacture.

Since certain changes may be made in the above-described invention, without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention herein involved, it is intended that all of the subject matter of the above description shown in the accompanying drawings shall be interpreted merely as examples illustrating the inventive concept herein and shall not be construed as limiting the invention.

Claims

1. An article of clothing, comprising: a garment body configured to be worn by a user, the garment body including a pair of armholes and a neckhole defining therebetween a shoulder of the garment body; anda pocket integrated with the garment body, the pocket and having an opening located on the shoulder of the garment body.

2. The article of clothing of claim 1, wherein: the opening is oriented at an upward angle.

3. The article of clothing of claim 1, wherein: the angle is between about 40 and about 60 degrees from horizontal.

4. The article of clothing of claim 3, wherein: the angle is about 50 degrees from horizontal.

5. The article of clothing of claim 4, wherein: the opening includes a closure for closing off the opening.

6. The article of clothing of claim 5, wherein: the closure member is one of a zipper, a clasp, a snap, a magnet and Velcro.

7. The article of clothing of claim 6, wherein: the closure member is a zipper.

8. The article of clothing of claim 4, wherein: the opening is about 4.5 inches in length.

9. The article of clothing of claim 1, wherein: the pocket is about 8 inches tall and about 4 inches wide.

10. The article of clothing of claim 1, wherein: the garment body is sleeveless and is formed from a nylon spandex fabric mix, having a weight of 300-330 gsm.

11. The article of clothing of claim 10, wherein: the neckhole is in the form of a v-neck.

12. The article of clothing of claim 1, further comprising: a vertical closure member configured to open and close the garment body.

13. The article of clothing of claim 1, wherein: the pocket is a first pocket and the opening is a first opening, the first pocket and first opening being located on a left shoulder of the garment body; andwherein the article of clothing further includes a second pocket having a second opening located on a right shoulder of the garment body.

14. The article of clothing of claim 13, further comprising: the first opening and the second opening each extend at an upward angle.

15. A surgical undergarment, comprising: a garment body configured to be worn by a user, the garment body including a pair of armholes and a neckhole defining therebetween respective shoulders of the garment body;a pocket integrated with the garment body, the pocket and having an opening located on one of the shoulders of the garment body; anda closure member associated with the opening for opening and closing the opening;wherein the opening is oriented at an upward angle between about 40 and about 60 degrees from horizontal.

16. The surgical undergarment of claim 15, wherein: the angle is about 50 degrees from horizontal.

17. The surgical undergarment of claim 16, wherein: the garment body is sleeveless and is formed from a nylon spandex fabric mix, having a weight of 300-330 gsm.

18. The surgical undergarment of claim 16, wherein: the opening is about 4.5 inches in length.

19. An article of clothing, comprising: a garment body configured to be worn by a user, the garment body including a pair of armholes and a neckhole defining therebetween a shoulder of the garment body;a pocket integrated with the garment body, the pocket and having an opening located on the shoulder of the garment body; anda zipper closure associated with the opening;wherein the opening is oriented at an upward angle of about 50 degrees from horizontal; andwherein the garment body is sleeveless and is formed from a nylon spandex fabric mix, having a weight of 300-330 gsm.