U.S. patent application number 16/944550 was filed with the patent office on 2020-11-19 for wound care and infusion method and system utilizing a therapeutic agent.
This patent application is currently assigned to ThermoTek, Inc.. The applicant listed for this patent is ThermoTek, Inc.. Invention is credited to Tony QUISENBERRY.
Application Number | 20200360579 16/944550 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 1000004989799 |
Filed Date | 2020-11-19 |
![](/patent/app/20200360579/US20200360579A1-20201119-D00000.png)
![](/patent/app/20200360579/US20200360579A1-20201119-D00001.png)
![](/patent/app/20200360579/US20200360579A1-20201119-D00002.png)
![](/patent/app/20200360579/US20200360579A1-20201119-D00003.png)
![](/patent/app/20200360579/US20200360579A1-20201119-D00004.png)
![](/patent/app/20200360579/US20200360579A1-20201119-D00005.png)
![](/patent/app/20200360579/US20200360579A1-20201119-D00006.png)
![](/patent/app/20200360579/US20200360579A1-20201119-D00007.png)
![](/patent/app/20200360579/US20200360579A1-20201119-D00008.png)
![](/patent/app/20200360579/US20200360579A1-20201119-D00009.png)
![](/patent/app/20200360579/US20200360579A1-20201119-D00010.png)
View All Diagrams
United States Patent
Application |
20200360579 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
QUISENBERRY; Tony |
November 19, 2020 |
WOUND CARE AND INFUSION METHOD AND SYSTEM UTILIZING A THERAPEUTIC
AGENT
Abstract
A combination therapy pad that includes a first layer and a
second layer operatively coupled to the first layer. A fiber-optic
array is disposed between the first layer and the second layer. A
third layer is operatively coupled to the first layer. The third
layer includes a vacuum tube in fluid communication with a vacuum
source and a therapeutic fluid tube in fluid communication with a
therapeutic fluid source. The third layer provides at least one of
vacuum therapy and therapeutic fluid treatment to a wound area.
Inventors: |
QUISENBERRY; Tony; (Highland
Village, TX) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
ThermoTek, Inc. |
Flower Mound |
TX |
US |
|
|
Assignee: |
ThermoTek, Inc.
Flower Mound
TX
|
Family ID: |
1000004989799 |
Appl. No.: |
16/944550 |
Filed: |
July 31, 2020 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
|
|
|
|
|
|
Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
15370689 |
Dec 6, 2016 |
10765785 |
|
|
16944550 |
|
|
|
|
14197324 |
Mar 5, 2014 |
10016583 |
|
|
15370689 |
|
|
|
|
61776328 |
Mar 11, 2013 |
|
|
|
Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A61N 2005/063 20130101;
A61N 5/0624 20130101; A61N 2005/0645 20130101; A61M 2205/3368
20130101; A61F 7/007 20130101; A61M 13/003 20130101; A61M 2205/50
20130101; A61N 1/40 20130101; A61F 7/0097 20130101; A61N 2005/0626
20130101; A61M 2205/053 20130101; A61M 1/0092 20140204; A61M 1/0058
20130101; A61F 13/0216 20130101; A61M 1/0001 20130101; A61M
2205/502 20130101; A61M 1/0088 20130101; A61N 2005/0661 20130101;
A61M 2205/36 20130101; A61N 2005/0652 20130101; A61F 2007/0094
20130101; A61M 2202/0208 20130101; A61M 1/0084 20130101; A61M
2202/0468 20130101 |
International
Class: |
A61M 1/00 20060101
A61M001/00; A61F 13/02 20060101 A61F013/02; A61F 7/00 20060101
A61F007/00; A61N 5/06 20060101 A61N005/06; A61N 1/40 20060101
A61N001/40; A61M 13/00 20060101 A61M013/00 |
Claims
1-10. (canceled)
11. A wound-care system, comprising: a patch; an infusion tube
coupled to the patch; an oxygen concentrator coupled to the patch
via the infusion tube; a vacuum tube coupled to the patch; a pump
coupled to the patch via the vacuum tube; a humidifier coupled to
the infusion tube; a first plurality of solenoids disposed between
the patch and the oxygen concentrator; and a second plurality of
solenoids for isolating the pump from the patch.
12. The wound-care system of claim 11, wherein the first plurality
of solenoids comprises an oxygen solenoid and an infusion
solenoid.
13. The wound-care system of claim 12, comprising an oxygen vent
solenoid disposed between the oxygen solenoid and the infusion
solenoid.
14. The wound-care system of claim 11, wherein the second plurality
of solenoids comprises a pump solenoid and a patch solenoid.
15. The wound-care system of claim 14, comprising a vacuum vent
solenoid disposed between the pump solenoid and the patch
solenoid.
16. The wound-care system of claim 11, comprising an exudate bottle
fluidly coupled to the patch and the pump solenoid.
17. The wound-care system of claim 11, wherein the pump is fluidly
coupled to the patch via the pump solenoid and the patch solenoid,
the pump supplying vacuum pressure to the patch.
18. The wound-care system of claim 11, wherein the oxygen
concentrator is fluidly coupled to the patch via the oxygen
solenoid, the oxygen concentrator supplying oxygen to the
patch.
19. The wound-care system of claim 11, wherein: a vacuum vent
solenoid is disposed between and fluidly couples the pump to an
exterior environment; and an oxygen vent solenoid is disposed
between and fluidly couples the oxygen concentrator to the exterior
environment.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent
application Ser. No. 14/197,324, filed on Mar. 5, 2014. U.S. patent
application Ser. No. 14/1.97,324 claims priority to, and
incorporates by reference for any purpose the entire disclosure of,
U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 61/776,328, filed Mar. 11,
2013. This application incorporates by reference the entire
disclosure of patent application Ser. No. 14/197,324, filed on Mar.
5, 2014, U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 61/776,328, filed
Mar. 11, 2013, U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/359,210, filed
Jan. 26, 2012, U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/975,047, filed
Oct. 17, 2007, U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/801,662, filed
May 9, 2007, U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/894,369, filed
Jul. 19, 2004, U.S. Pat. No. 5,097,829, filed Mar. 19, 1990, U.S.
Pat. No. 5,989,285, filed Aug. 15,1996, and U.S. Pat. No.
6,935,409, filed Jun. 8, 1999.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
Technical Field
[0002] The present invention relates to a wound care method and
system with oxygenation and infusion therapy, and more
particularly, but not by way of limitation, to a wound care system
configured supply therapeutic oxygen and below ambient pressure to
a wound area.
Description of the Related Art
[0003] An important aspect of patient treatment is wound care.
Medical facilities are constantly in need of advanced technology
for the cleaning and treatment of skin wounds. The larger the skin
wound, the more serious the issues are of wound closure and
infection prevention. The rapidity of the migration over the wound
of epithelial and subcutaneous tissue adjacent the wound is thus
critical. Devices have been developed and/or technically described
which address certain aspects of such wound healing. For example,
U.S. Pat. No. 6,695,823 to Lina et al. ("Lina") describes a wound
therapy device that facilitates wound closure. A vacuum pump is
taught for collecting fluids from the wound. WO 93/09727 discloses
a solution for wound drainage by utilizing negative pressure over
the wound to promote the above references migration of epithelial
and subcutaneous tissue over the wound.
[0004] In other embodiments, wound treatment is performed using
light therapy. For example, U.S. Pat. No. 7,081,128 to Hart et al.
("Hart") describes a method of treating various medical conditions
such as, for example, joint inflammation, edema, etc., utilizing an
array of Light Emitting Diodes contained on a flexible substrate
that may be wrapped around an anatomical feature of the human body.
U.S. Pat. No. 6,596,016 to Vreman et al. ("Vreman") discloses a
phototherapy garment for an infant having a flexible backing
material, a transparent liner, and a flexible printed circuit sheet
containing surface-mounted LEDs. The LEDs preferably emit
high-intensity blue light, suitable for the treatment of neonatal
hyperbilirubinemia. The device may include a portable power
supply.
[0005] In other embodiments, wound treatment is performed using
oxygen. The use of oxygen for the treatment of skin wounds has been
determined to be very beneficial in certain medical instances. The
advantages are multitudinous and include rapidity in healing. For
this reason, systems have been designed for supplying high
concentration of oxygen to wound sites to facilitate the healing
process. For example, U.S. Pat. No. 5,578,022 to Scherson et al.
("Scherson") teaches an oxygen producing bandage and method. One of
the benefits cited in Scherson is the ability to modulate a supply
of concentrated hyperbolic oxygen to skin wounds. Although oxygen
is beneficial in direct application of predetermined dosages to
skin wounds, too much oxygen can be problematic. Oxygen applied to
a wound site can induce the growth of blood vessels for stimulating
the growth of new skin. Too much oxygen, however, can lead to toxic
effects and the cessation of healing of the wound. It would be an
advantage, therefore, to maximize the effectiveness of oxygen
applied to a wound area by enhancing the absorption rate of oxygen
into the skin and tissue fluids. By enhancing the absorption rate
of the oxygen in the wound, less exposure time and concomitantly
fewer toxic side effects to the endothelial cells surrounding the
wound, such as devasculation, occurs. It would be a further
advantage, therefore, to utilize existing medical treatment
modalities directed toward other aspects of patient therapy to
augment oxygenation for wound care.
[0006] The present invention provides improvements in wound care by
providing multiple wound healing approaches such as, for example,
the application of negative pressure over the wound area along with
oxygenation of the wound area. By combining an oxygenation modality
that is utilized in conjunction, the individual benefits of
negative wound pressure and oxygenation treatments can be
synergistically enhanced.
SUMMARY
[0007] The present invention relates to a wound care method and
system oxygenation and infusion therapy, and more particularly, but
not by way of limitation, to a wound care system configured supply
therapeutic oxygen and below ambient pressure to a wound area. In
one aspect, the present invention relates to a method of treating a
wound area. The method includes covering a wound with a patch and
coupling the patch to an oxygen generator. The patch is coupled to
a vacuum pump. The method includes generating, via the oxygen
generator, oxygen and humidifying, via a humidifier, the oxygen.
The humidified oxygen is delivered to a wound via a tube associated
with the patch and negative pressure is applied, via the vacuum
pump, to the patch.
[0008] In another aspect, the present invention relates to a
wound-care system. The system includes a patch. An infusion tube is
coupled to the patch. An oxygen concentrator is coupled to the
patch via the infusion tube. A vacuum tube is coupled to the patch.
A pump is coupled to the patch via the vacuum tube. A humidifier is
coupled to the infusion tube. A first plurality of solenoids are
disposed between the patch and the oxygen concentrator. A second
plurality of solenoids for isolating the pump from the patch.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0009] A more complete understanding of the method and apparatus of
the present invention may be obtained by reference to the following
Detailed Description when taken in conjunction with the
accompanying Drawings wherein:
[0010] FIG. 1 is an illustration of the wound care system according
to an exemplary embodiment;
[0011] FIG. 2 is a block diagram according to an exemplary
embodiment;
[0012] FIG. 3 is a flow diagram of a process according to an
exemplary embodiment;
[0013] FIG. 4 illustrates a side elevational cross sectional view
of a therapy blanket/pad according to an exemplary embodiment;
[0014] FIG. 5 illustrates a side elevational cross sectional view
of a therapy blanket/pad according to an exemplary embodiment;
[0015] FIG. 6 is a diagrammatic illustration of a therapy
blanket/pad according to an exemplary embodiment;
[0016] FIG. 7 is a diagrammatic illustration of a wound evacuation
and UV LED treatment pad according to an exemplary embodiment;
[0017] FIG. 8A is a schematic diagram of a wound care system
according to an exemplary embodiment;
[0018] FIG. 8B is a front perspective view of a wound care system
according to an exemplary embodiment;
[0019] FIG. 8C is a front perspective view of a wound care system
illustrating a plurality of hooks according to an exemplary
embodiment;
[0020] FIG. 9 is a is a block diagram of a wound care system
according to an exemplary embodiment;
[0021] FIG. 10 is a block diagram of a wound care system according
to an exemplary embodiment;
[0022] FIG. 11 is a diagrammatic illustration of a combination
therapy pad according to an exemplary embodiment;
[0023] FIG. 12 is a diagrammatic illustration of a combination
therapy pad according to an exemplary embodiment;
[0024] FIG. 13 is an exploded view of a combination therapy pad
according to an exemplary embodiment; and
[0025] FIG. 14 is a schematic diagram of a wound-infusion system
according to an exemplary embodiment;
[0026] FIG. 15 is a flow diagram of a process for administering
infusion therapy in conjunction with vacuum therapy and oxygenation
therapy according to an exemplary embodiment; and
[0027] FIG. 16 is a schematic diagram of a wound-care system
according to an exemplary embodiment.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0028] Various embodiments of the present invention will now be
described more fully with reference to the accompanying drawings.
The invention may, however, be embodied in many different forms and
should not be construed as limited to the embodiments set forth
herein; rather, the embodiments are provided so that this
disclosure will be thorough and complete, and will fully convey the
scope of the invention to those skilled in the art.
[0029] Referring first to FIG. 1, there is shown an illustration of
one embodiment of a wound care system 10 in accordance with
principles of the present invention. The system 10 comprises a
control unit 12, a therapy blanket/pad. 14 and a plurality of
tubular members 16 (to be defined below) connecting the control
unit 12 to the therapy blanket/pad 14. In various embodiments, the
system 10 may also include a wound evacuation and ultra violet
light emitting diode (UV LED) unit 28 and a wound evacuation and UV
LED treatment pad 58. The wound evacuation and UV LED unit 28 is
connected to the control unit 12 while the wound evacuation and UV
LED treatment pad 58 is connected to the wound evacuation and UV
LED unit 28.
[0030] Still referring to FIG. 1, the use of the therapy
blanket/pad 14 to the wound site of the patient may be, in one
embodiment, subsequent to the cleaning of the wound area of dead
tissue by the wound evacuation and, in some embodiments, the UV LED
treatment pad 58. In one embodiment, Velcro cross straps may be
utilized to secure the therapy blanket/pad 14. A 93% concentration
of oxygen has been suggested to be advantageous when applied to a
wound site as described herein with one or two atmospheres of
pressure. In accordance with one aspect of the present invention,
an oxygen generator/concentrator 20 may be utilized within the
control unit 12 or may be separate therefrom. In FIG. 1, an oxygen
generator/concentrator 20 is shown in association with the control
unit 12 by dotted line 22 and an oxygenation gas line 24 shown
extending between the control unit 12 and the therapy blanket/pad
14 as a diagrammatic illustration according to an embodiment of the
present invention. A humidifier 21 is disposed between the oxygen
generator/concentrator 20 and the control unit 12. In a typical
embodiment, the humidifier 21 may be, for example, a bubbler, a
proton-exchange membrane, or any other type of humidifying device
as dictated by design requirements. In a typical embodiment, the
humidifier 21 facilitates delivery of oxygen that is humidified
above ambient humidity to the wound site. In a typical embodiment,
the oxygen delivery is at a partial pressure of approximately 22
mmHg.
[0031] In FIG. 1, fiber optic strands (not explicitly shown) direct
ultraviolet light from a plurality of LEDs (not explicitly shown)
to an array of fiber optic strand ends (not explicitly shown)
located on the undersurface of wound evacuation and UV LED
treatment pad 58. The control unit 12 may be used to modulate the
ultraviolet light to create various patterns of light, different
intensities of light, and different durations of light. For
example, the control unit 12 may be used to generate pulsed
emission of ultraviolet light. The ultraviolet light is capable of
penetrating through several layers of skin to destroy infectious
bacteria. In one embodiment, not specifically shown herein, the UV
LED treatment pad 58 may be provided on the therapy blanket/pad 14.
According to exemplary embodiments, the ultraviolet light from the
plurality of LEDs located on the undersurface of wound evacuation
and UV LED treatment pad 58 destroys a wide variety of
microorganisms such as, for example, bacteria which causes skin
infections. In addition, the ultraviolet light from the plurality
of LEDs improves wound healing along with cell and bone growth.
Furthermore, the use of LEDs in light therapy is safe,
non-invasive, drug-free and therapeutic.
[0032] Referring now to FIG. 2, there is a block diagram 200
illustrating the flow of oxygenation gas as a transfer fluid
according to an embodiment of the present invention. As set forth
in the block diagram 200, a control unit display 30 is provided in
conjunction with an analog/digital processing unit 32. A plurality
of sensors 34 are, in various embodiments, utilized in conjunction
with the processing unit 32 for control of transfer fluids to the
therapy blanket/pad 14 as well as the oxygen delivery thereto. The
oxygen generator/concentrator 20 is connected to a power supply 36,
which power supply 36, also powers the processing unit 32. The
oxygen generated from the oxygen generator/concentrator 20 is then
pumped through compression pump 38 and the humidifier 21 before
delivery to the therapy blanket/pad 14. It should be noted that an
oxygen supply may also be used. In a typical embodiment, the
humidifier 21 is disposed between the oxygen generator/concentrator
20 and the therapy blanket/pad 14. In the embodiment shown in FIG.
2, the humidifier 21 is disposed between the compression pump 28
and the therapy blanket/pad 14; however, in other embodiments, the
humidifier 21 may be disposed between the oxygen
generator/concentrator 20 and the compression pump 38. In a typical
embodiment, the humidifier 21 facilitates delivery of oxygen that
is humidified above ambient humidity to the wound site. In a
typical embodiment, the oxygen delivery is at a partial pressure of
approximately 22 mmHg.
[0033] Referring still to FIG. 2, a water/alcohol reservoir 40 is
shown in fluid flow communication with fluid pump 42 and, in
various embodiments, a Thermo Electric Cooler (TEC) heater/cooler
44. The TEC heater/cooler 44 may be controlled by the processing
unit 32 and a TEC supply 46 is likewise shown. Adjacent the TEC
supply 46 is illustrated a diagrammatical schematic of a treatment
chamber 50 defined beneath the therapy blanket/pad 14 wherein the
treatment chamber 50 is thermally exposed to the thermal fluid by
the fluid path therein illustrated. The adhesive attachment edges
52 therein shown likewise define the treatment chamber space 50
between the therapy blanket/pad 14 and the wound site to allow for
the flow of the oxygenation gas therein.
[0034] Referring still to FIG. 2, there is shown a vacuum pump 59
powered by the power supply 36. A collection chamber 56 is
connected to the vacuum pump 59 and to a wound evacuation and UV
LED treatment pad 58. The wound evacuation and UV LED treatment pad
58 is used prior to the therapy blanket/pad 14, in one embodiment
of the present invention, for cleaning the wound area in
preparation for oxygenation in conjunction with thermal therapy in
accordance with the present invention.
[0035] Referring still to FIG. 2, there is shown a plurality of
ultraviolet LEDs 60 and fiber optic strands 62, which are
interoperably connected to the wound evacuation and UV LED
treatment pad 58. The wound evacuation and UV LED treatment pad 58
is used prior to the therapy blanket/pad 14, in one embodiment of
the present invention, for removing bacteria from the wound area in
preparation for oxygenation in accordance with an embodiment.
According to exemplary embodiments, ultraviolet light from the
plurality of LEDs 60 destroys a wide variety of microorganisms such
as, for example, bacteria which causes skin infections. In
addition, the ultraviolet light from the plurality of LEDs 60
improves wound healing along with cell and bone growth.
Furthermore, the use of the plurality of LEDs 60 in light therapy
is safe, non-invasive, drug-free and therapeutic.
[0036] According to exemplary embodiments, the ultraviolet light
from the plurality of LEDs 60 is in the range of approximately 200
to 450 nanometers and higher, and energy levels of up to 35,000
microwatt seconds/cm.sup.2, which are necessary to eliminate or
destroy most microorganisms such as bacteria, spores, algae and
viruses. Most bacteria can be destroyed at ultra violet energies of
from about 3,000 to about 5,000 microwatt-seconds/cm.sup.2 while
mold spores may require energies in the 20,000 to 35,000
mW-seconds/cm.sup.2.
[0037] Referring now to FIG. 3 there is shown a flow diagram of a
process 300 according to an embodiment. The process 300 starts at
step 101. At step 102, the wound area is cleaned of dead tissue,
any undesirable fluids, and bacteria by applying the wound
evacuation and UV LED treatment pad 58. The wound evacuation and UV
LED treatment pad 58 is used prior to the therapy blanket/pad 14
for removing bacteria from the wound area in preparation for
oxygenation in accordance with the present invention. According to
exemplary embodiments, the ultraviolet light from the plurality of
LEDs located on the undersurface of wound evacuation and UV LED
treatment pad 58 destroys a wide variety of microorganisms such as,
for example, bacteria which causes skin infections, in addition,
the ultraviolet light from the plurality of LEDs improves wound
healing along with cell and bone growth. Furthermore, the use of
LEDs in light therapy is safe, non-invasive, drug-free and
therapeutic.
[0038] At step 103, the therapy blanket/pad 14 is applied to the
wound area. The therapy blanket/pad 14 is held in position by an
adhesive border and, in one embodiment, elastic Velcro cross
straps. At step 104, according to an embodiment, an oxygenation gas
comprising on the order of 93% concentration of oxygen gas is
delivered to the wound site with one to two atmospheric pressures.
The numbers as set forth and shown are exemplary and other
oxygenation concentrations as well as pressures are contemplated in
various embodiments. In a typical embodiment, the humidifier 21
facilitates delivery of oxygen that is humidified above ambient
humidity to the wound site. In a typical embodiment, the oxygen
delivery is at a partial pressure of approximately 22 mmHg.
[0039] In step 106, the site is warmed through the fluid path
herein shown on the back side of the therapy blanket/pad 14 up to
approximately 5 to approximately 6 degrees above the body
temperature of the patient. Warming allows the pores of the
patient's skin to open, exposing capillaries therein. The
capillaries of the skin are then saturated with oxygen. In one
period of time herein described, a warming period of approximately
15 to approximately 30 minutes is recommended. At step 108,
oxygenation is continued at one to two atmospheres and the therapy
blanket/pad fluid is lowered to approximately 30 to approximately
40 degrees below body temperatures. Cooling closes the pores of the
wound area and pulls oxygen into the underlying tissue. Cooling
then proceeds for approximately 30 to approximately 45 minutes in
accordance with an embodiment. At step 110, the process 300 may be
repeated periodically and the wound area may be cleaned of dead
tissue before each treatment. At step 112, the process 300
ends.
[0040] FIG. 4 is a side elevational, cross sectional view of one
embodiment of the therapy blanket/pad 14. In an embodiment, the
therapy blanket/pad. 14 is constructed with a single bladder 114
where, in various embodiments, thermal fluid flow may be provided.
The tubular members 16 are coupled to the therapy blanket/pad 14.
The therapy blanket/pad is fabricated with a circuitous flow path
therein for thermal fluid flow. The circuitous flow path may be
tubular in form, or simply a path within therapy blanket/pad 14
defined by flow channels. What is shown is a path 117 within
therapy blanket/pad 14. The path 117 is shown with tubular ends
117A, for example, illustrating that thermal fluid flows therein
for thermal treatment of the underlying wound area. Again, the path
117 may not be of tubular form and may have a variety of shapes and
fabrication techniques well known in the art of therapy pads.
[0041] According to an exemplary embodiment, the therapy
blanket/pad 14 is separated from the patient's skin by adhesive
strips 119 having a thickness of, for example, 1/8 inch. The
therapy blanket/pad 14 (not drawn to scale) injects humidified
oxygen into the treatment chamber 50. The injection of humidified
oxygen helps treat the wound area and any stasis zones therein
where tissue swelling has restricted flow of blood to tissues
within the wound area. It is well known that, without sufficient
blood flow, the epithelial and subcutaneous tissues referenced
above receive less oxygen and are less able to migrate over the
wound area to promote healing. By utilizing the embodiments
disclosed herein, oxygenation is enhanced and the problems
associated with such conditions are mitigated.
[0042] FIG. 5 illustrates an exemplary embodiment of the therapy
and oxygenation treatment pad of FIG. 4. A dual bladder 214 is thus
provided where air may be applied to second bladder 207 atop the
path 117, also represented by the "tubular" ends 117A shown for
purposes of example only. In this manner, select compression
therapy may be afforded in conjunction with the oxygenation
treatment. In that regard, air inlet tube 201 is connected to the
second bladder 207. Both FIGS. 4 and 5 show oxygen tube 24 for
feeding humidified oxygen to the treatment chamber 50, with tube
203, which in some embodiments, allows thermal fluid into conduits
117 with tube 205 allowing thermal fluid return to control unit 12
of FIG. 1. FIG. 5 further illustrates the advantages of FIG. 4 with
the ability for either compression or sequenced compression as
referenced above.
[0043] Referring now to FIG. 6, there is shown a diagrammatic
illustration of the therapy blanket/pad 14 of FIGS. 1 and 4. The
tubular members 16 for, in some embodiments, thermal fluid flow and
the tube 24 for humidified oxygen flow are clearly seen. The
adhesive border 119 is likewise shown.
[0044] FIG. 7 is diagrammatic illustration of a wound evacuation
and UV LED treatment pad 58 according to an embodiment of the
present invention. In this embodiment, the wound evacuation and. UV
LED treatment pad 58 contains an array of fiber optic strand 72 to
project ultraviolet light onto a wound area (not explicitly shown).
In a typical embodiment, the fiber optic strands 72 may be cleaved
side emitting fibers. The wound evacuation and UV LED treatment pad
58 also contains an array of unique removal ports 57 that may be
used to remove any undesirable fluid from the wound area. The wound
evacuation and UV LED treatment pad 58 further contains a
non-tissue adhesive service 80 which contains both the fiber optic
strand array 7:2 and the unique removal ports 57. An adhesive
circumference 82 is located around the periphery of the wound
evacuation and UV LED treatment pad 58 to allow for a seal to be
formed around the wound area. The seal, in conjunction with the
removal ports 57, allows a negative pressure to form over the wound
area. Negative pressure facilitates removal undesirable tissues
from the wound area. The wound evacuation and UV LED treatment pad
58 is connected to a control unit 12. The control unit 12 contains
a vacuum pump (not shown) and a plurality of ultraviolet LEDs (not
explicitly shown). The vacuum pump is connected to the wound
evacuation and UV LED treatment pad 58 via a vacuum line 55. A
collection chamber 56 is positioned between the vacuum pump and the
wound evacuation and UV LED treatment pad 58 to intercept and store
undesirable fluids, tissues, and the like that are removed from the
wound area as a result of negative pressure applied to the wound
area with the vacuum pump. The plurality of ultraviolet LEDs
transmit ultraviolet light through the fiber optic strands 70 to
the wound evacuation and UV LED treatment pad 58, where the fiber
optic strands 70 are then dispersed throughout the wound evacuation
and UV LED treatment pad 58 to project ultraviolet light onto the
wound area. Energy delivered by the plurality of LEDs enhances
cellular metabolism, accelerates repair and replenishment of
damaged skin cells, as well as stimulates production of collagen
which is the foundation of a healthy and smooth skin. Light therapy
is non-ablative, non-invasive, and painless.
[0045] FIG. 8A is a schematic diagram of a wound care system
according to an exemplary embodiment. A wound care system 800
includes a control unit 802, a combination therapy pad 804, and a
plurality of tubular members 806 connecting the combination therapy
pad 804 to the control unit 802. A wound evacuation and UV-LED unit
808 is associated with the control unit 802 and connected to the
combination therapy pad 804. In various embodiments, the wound
evacuation and. UV-LED unit 808 and the control unit 802 are
contained in a single housing; however, in various alternative
embodiments, the wound evacuation and UV-LED unit 808 and the
control unit 802 may not be in a single housing and are independent
devices.
[0046] Still referring to FIG. 8A, use of the combination therapy
pad 804 incorporates evacuation therapy for wound cleaning with
oxygenation therapy known to promote healing. In various
embodiments, Velcro cross straps are used to secure the combination
therapy pad 804. An oxygen generator/concentrator 810 is utilized
to provide, for example, a 93% concentration of oxygen to a wound
site via the combination therapy pad 804. In a typical embodiment,
the oxygen generator/concentrator 810 and the control unit 802 are
separate devices; however, in other embodiments, the oxygen
generator/concentrator 810 and the control unit 802 are contained
in a single housing. A humidifier 821 is disposed between the
oxygen generator/concentrator 810 and the control unit 802. In a
typical embodiment, the humidifier 821 may be, for example, a
bubbler, a proton-exchange membrane, or any other type of
humidifying device as dictated by design requirements. In a typical
embodiment, the humidifier 821 facilitates delivery of oxygen that
is humidified above ambient humidity to the wound site. In a
typical embodiment, the oxygen delivery is at a partial pressure of
approximately 22 mmHg.
[0047] Still referring to FIG. 8A, fiber optic strands (not
explicitly shown) direct ultraviolet light from a plurality of LEDs
(not explicitly shown) located in the wound evacuation and UV-LED
unit 808 to an array of fiber optic strands (not explicitly shown)
located on an undersurface of the combination therapy pad 804. The
control unit 802 may be used to modulate the ultraviolet light to
create, for example, various patterns of light, different
intensities of light, and different durations of light. For
example, in various embodiments, the control unit 802 is used to
produce pulsed emission of the ultraviolet light.
[0048] FIG. 8B is a front perspective view of a wound care system
according to an exemplary embodiment. The wound care system 800
includes the control unit 802, the combination therapy pad 804, and
the plurality of tubular members 806 connecting the combination
therapy pad 804 to the control unit 802. A user interface 805 is
disposed on a front surface of the control unit 802. In a typical
embodiment, the user interface 805 allows a user to control various
parameters of wound care-treatment including, for example, oxygen
concentration, oxygen pressure and, if applicable, temperature, and
ultra-violet light intensity. The user interface 805 may be pivoted
relative to the control unit 802 to provide a favorable viewing
angle. In a typical embodiment, the user interface 805 may be, for
example a touch screen interface; however, in other embodiments,
the user interface 805 may be, for example, a plurality of controls
or any other user interface. In various embodiments, Velcro cross
straps (not shown) may be used to secure the combination therapy
pad 804.
[0049] FIG. 8C is a front perspective view of the wound care system
of FIG. 8A illustrating a plurality of foldable hooks. The wound
care system 800 includes a plurality of foldable hooks 803
disposed, for example, along a top of the control unit 802. In a
typical embodiment, the plurality of foldable hooks 803 may be
utilized to hang the control unit 802 from, for example, a hospital
bed.
[0050] FIG. 9 is a block diagram of a wound care system according
to an exemplary embodiment. In a wound-care system 900, a control
unit display 902 is provided in conjunction with a processing unit
904. In a typical embodiment, the processing unit 904 is an
analog/digital processing unit. In various embodiments, a plurality
of sensors 906 may be utilized in conjunction with the processing
unit 904 for control of heat transfer fluids to a combination
therapy pad 804. In various embodiments, the oxygen
generator/concentrator 810 is connected to a power supply 908. The
power supply 908 also powers the processing unit 904. Oxygen
generated by the oxygen generator/concentrator 810 is pumped
through a compression pump 910, a humidifier 923, and a pressure
switch 921 before being delivered to the combination therapy pad
804. In a typical embodiment, the humidifier 923 is disposed
between the oxygen generator/concentrator 810 and the therapy
blanket/pad 804. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 9, the humidifier
923 is disposed between the compression pump 910 and the therapy
blanket/pad 804; however, in other embodiments, the humidifier 923
may be disposed between the oxygen generator/concentrator 810 and
the compression pump 910. In a typical embodiment, the humidifier
923 facilitates delivery of oxygen that is humidified above ambient
humidity to the wound site. In a typical embodiment, the oxygen
delivery is at a partial pressure of approximately 22 mmHg.
[0051] Still referring to FIG. 9, in various embodiment, a
water/alcohol reservoir 912 may be in fluid communication with a
fluid pump 914 and a thermoelectric cooler 916. The thermoelectric
cooler 916 is controlled by the processing unit 904. In a typical
embodiment, a vacuum pump 918 is powered by the power supply 908. A
collection chamber 920 is fluidly connected to the vacuum pump 918
and the pressure switch 921. The pressure switch 921 is fluidly
coupled to the combination therapy pad 804. In a typical
embodiment, oxygen therapy and vacuum therapy are each administered
to the combination therapy pad 804 through a common port 922. In a
typical embodiment, the pressure switch 921 is capable of adjusting
the combination therapy pad 804 between vacuum treatment and
oxygenation therapy.
[0052] FIG. 10 is a block diagram of a wound care system according
to an exemplary embodiment. In a typical embodiment, a wound care
system 1000 is similar in construction to the arrangement described
above with respect to FIG. 9. However, the wound care system 1000
does not include a water/alcohol reservoir or a fluid pump as shown
in FIG. 9. In a various embodiment, the thermoelectric cooler 916
may be in fluid communication with the compression pump 910. Thus,
thermal therapy may be supplied to the combination therapy pad 804
through heating and cooling of the oxygen supplied by the oxygen
generator/concentrator 810. In a typical embodiment, a humidifier
1021 is disposed between the oxygen generator/concentrator 810 and
the therapy blanket/pad 804. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 10,
the humidifier 1021 is disposed between the compression pump 910
and the therapy blanket/pad 804; however, in other embodiments, the
humidifier 1021 may be disposed between the oxygen
generator/concentrator 810 and the compression pump 910. In a
typical embodiment, the humidifier 1021 facilitates delivery of
oxygen that is humidified above ambient humidity to the wound site.
In a typical embodiment, the oxygen delivery is at a partial
pressure of approximately 22 mmHg.
[0053] FIG. 11 is a diagrammatic illustration of a combination
therapy pad according to an exemplary embodiment. In a typical
embodiment, the combination therapy pad 804 includes a plurality of
fiber optic strands 72 to project ultraviolet light onto a wound
area (not explicitly shown). In various embodiments, the fiber
optic strands 72 may be cleaved or side-emitting fibers; however,
one skilled in the art will recognize that any type of fiber-optic
strand could be used. In a typical embodiment, the combination
therapy pad 804 also includes a plurality of oxygenation/removal
ports 1102. In a typical embodiment, the oxygenation/removal ports
1102 alternate between providing oxygen therapy and vacuum therapy
to the wound area.
[0054] Still referring to FIG. 11, in a typical embodiment, oxygen
therapy and vacuum therapy is administered to the combination
therapy pad 804 via an evacuation/oxygenation line 1104. The
evacuation/oxygenation line 1104 is fluidly coupled to the pressure
switch 921. The pressure switch 921 is fluidly connected to the
compression pump 910 and the vacuum pump 918. Thus, in a typical
embodiment, the pressure switch 921 is capable of adjusting the
combination therapy pad 804 between vacuum treatment and
oxygenation therapy.
[0055] Still referring to FIG. 11, in various embodiments, a luer
lock 1106 is fluidly coupled to the combination therapy pad 804.
During treatment, it is often necessary to administer various
medications to a wound site. Such administration often requires
removal of a wound dressing such as, for example, the combination
therapy pad 804. Frequent removal of the wound dressing can
increase risk of further damage to tissue immediately surrounding
the wound site. In a typical embodiment, the luer lock 1106 allows
for administration of medications and other therapeutic compounds
directly to a wound site without the need to remove the combination
therapy pad 804.
[0056] FIG. 12 is a diagrammatic illustration of a combination
therapy pad according to an exemplary embodiment. In a typical
embodiment, the combination therapy pad 1200 includes the plurality
of fiber optic strands 72 to project ultraviolet light onto a wound
area (not explicitly shown). In a typical embodiment, a combination
therapy pad 1200 also includes a radio frequency ("RF") antenna
1202. In a typical embodiment, the RF antenna 1202 comprises a wire
1204. The wire 1204 extends along a length of the combination
therapy pad 1204. In a typical embodiment, the wire 1204 is
disposed within the combination therapy pad 1200 so that, during
use, the wire is in close proximity to a wound area. In various
embodiments, the wire 1204 is insulated to reduce risk of electric
shock to a patient.
[0057] FIG. 13 is an exploded view of a combination therapy pad
according to an exemplary embodiment. A combination therapy pad
1300 includes a first layer 1302 having a first central gap 1304
formed therein. In a typical embodiment, the first layer 1302 is
constructed of, for example, urethane. A second layer 1305 is
disposed below the first layer 1302 and includes an adhesive bottom
surface 1306. A second central gap (not explicitly shown) is formed
in the second layer 1305 In a typical embodiment, the second layer
1305 is constructed of, for example, urethane. The first layer
1.302 and the second layer 1305 are coupled to each other around a
perimeter of the first layer 1302 and the second layer 1305 so that
the second central gap aligns with the first central gap 1304. A
fiber-optic array 1308 is disposed between the first layer 1302 and
the second layer 1305 so as to fill a space defined by the first
central gap 1304 and the second central gap.
[0058] Still referring to FIG. 13, a third layer 1310 is disposed
above the first layer 1302. The third layer 1310 includes a
recessed central area 1312. The recessed central area 1312 is
fluidly coupled to a vacuum tube 1314 via a first port and a
therapeutic fluid tube 1316 via a second port. An antenna 1318 is
coupled to the third layer 1310. The antenna 1318 is formed into a
loop and is generally arranged around a perimeter of the recessed
central area 1312. In a typical embodiment, the first layer 1302,
the second layer 1305, and the third layer 1310 are coupled to each
other via a process such as, for example, adhesive bonding or
welding.
[0059] Still referring to FIG. 13, during operation, the adhesive
bottom surface 1306 is placed on a bodily region of a patient
proximate a wound area. In a typical embodiment, the adhesive
bottom surface 1306 is oriented such that the second central gap is
positioned over the wound area. Thus, the adhesive bottom surface
1306 is not in direct contact with the wound area. The fiber-optic
array 1308 is disposed over the wound area and, in various
embodiments, may contact the wound area. The fiber-optic array 1308
delivers UV lighting to the wound area thereby promoting cleaning
and disinfection of the wound area. The vacuum tube 1314 applies
negative pressure to the wound area thereby removing undesirable
fluids, tissues, and the like from the wound area. The therapeutic
fluid tube 1316 provides a therapeutic fluid such as, for example,
humidified oxygen to the wound area.
[0060] Still referring to FIG. 13, during operation, a pulsed
radio-frequency ("RE") signal having a pulse frequency on the order
of, for example 27 MHz, is transmitted to the antenna 1318. In a
typical embodiment, an amplitude of the pulsed RE signal is on the
order of, for example, a fraction of a Watt. Such an amplitude is
below a threshold where federal licensing is typically required.
The antenna 1318 receives the pulsed RE signal from a
radio-frequency source and transmits the pulsed RE signal to a
region in close proximity to the wound area. Exposing the wound
area to the pulsed RE signal has been shown to be beneficial to
healing by encouraging intracellular communication. In particular,
pulsed RF signals have been shown to stimulate cellular bonding,
and metabolism.
[0061] FIG. 14 is a schematic diagram of a wound-infusion system
according to an exemplary embodiment. The wound-infusion system
1400 includes a controller 1401 having a first disconnect 1403 and
a second disconnect 1405. The first disconnect 1403 is fluidly
coupled to an oxygen concentrator 1416 and the second disconnect
1405 is fluidly coupled to a pump 1414. A patch 1402 includes an
infusion tube 1408 and a vacuum tube 1410. The infusion tube 1408
is fluidly coupled to the first disconnect 1403 and the vacuum tube
1410 is fluidly coupled to the second disconnect 1405. Thus, in
operation, vacuum pressure, generated by the, pump 1414, is applied
to the patch 1402 via the second disconnect 1405 and the vacuum
tube 1.410. Similarly, oxygen, supplied by the oxygen concentrator
1416, is applied to the patch 1402 via the first disconnect 1403
and the infusion tube 1408.
[0062] Still referring to FIG. 14, a reservoir 1404 is provided
with the patch 1402. In a typical embodiment, the reservoir
contains a therapeutic agent such as, for example, saline. The
reservoir 1404 is fluidly coupled to the infusion tube 1408 via an
infusion solenoid 1426 and a temperature control 1406. In a typical
embodiment, the infusion solenoid 1426, when open, fluidly couples
the reservoir 1404 to the patch 1402 via the infusion tube 1408.
Thus, oxygen, supplied by the oxygen concentrator 1416, pushes the
therapeutic agent through the infusion tube 1408 to the patch 1402.
In a typical embodiment, oxygen supplied by the oxygen concentrator
1416 passes through humidifier 1421. The humidifier 1421
facilitates delivery of oxygen that is humidified above ambient
humidity to the wound site. In a typical embodiment, the oxygen
delivery is at a partial pressure of approximately 22 mmHg. When
closed, the infusion solenoid 1426 isolates the reservoir 1404 from
the infusion tube 1408 and the patch 1402. In a various embodiment,
the temperature control 1406 may regulate a temperature of the
therapeutic agent thereby facilitating application of thermal
therapy to a wound area (not shown) via the patch 1402. For
example, in various embodiments, the temperature control 1406 may
raise the temperature of the therapeutic agent to a level above a
body temperature of a patient. An exudate bottle 1412 is fluidly
coupled to the vacuum tube 1410. During operation, the exudate
bottle 1412 collects fluids and materials removed through the patch
1402 by operation of vacuum pressure supplied by the pump 1414.
Thus, the pump 1414 remains sterile during operation.
[0063] Still referring to FIG. 14, an oxygen solenoid 1424 is
disposed within the controller 1401 and is fluidly coupled to the
oxygen concentrator 1416 and the first disconnect 1403. When open,
the oxygen solenoid 1424 fluidly couples the oxygen concentrator
1416 to the first disconnect 1403. When closed, the oxygen solenoid
1424 isolates the oxygen concentrator 1416. An oxygen vent 1430 is
fluidly coupled to oxygen concentrator 1416, the oxygen solenoid
1424, the first disconnect 1403 and an exterior environment. During
operation, the oxygen vent 1430 allows oxygen supplied by the
oxygen concentrator 1416 to be vented to the exterior environment.
An oxygen-vent solenoid 1428 is fluidly coupled to the oxygen vent
1430. When open, the oxygen-vent solenoid 1428 allows oxygen
supplied by the oxygen concentrator 1416 to be vented to the
exterior environment. When closed, the oxygen-vent solenoid 1428
prevents oxygen supplied by the oxygen concentrator 1416 from being
vented to the exterior environment. In a typical embodiment, the
oxygen supplied by the concentrator is in the range of
approximately 75% to approximately 100% oxygen.
[0064] Still referring to FIG. 14, a pump solenoid 1418 is disposed
within the controller 1401 and fluidly coupled to the pump 1414 and
the second disconnect 1405. When open, the pump solenoid 1418
fluidly couples the pump 1414 to the second disconnect 1405. When
closed, the pump solenoid 1418 isolates the, pump 1414. A vacuum
vent 1432 is fluidly coupled to pump 1414, the pump solenoid 1418,
the second disconnect 1405 and an exterior environment. During
operation, the vacuum vent 1432 allows pressure generated by the
pump 1414 to be vented to the exterior environment. A vacuum-vent
solenoid 1422 is fluidly coupled to the vacuum vent 1432. When
open, the vacuum-vent solenoid 1422 allows pressure generated by
the pump 1414 to be vented to the exterior environment. When
closed, the vacuum-vent solenoid 1422 prevents pressure generated
by the pump 1414 from being vented to the exterior environment. A
patch solenoid 1420 is fluidly coupled to the pump 1414 between the
vacuum vent 1432 and the second disconnect 1405. When open, the
patch solenoid 1420 fluidly couples the second disconnect 1405 to
the pump 1414. When closed, the patch solenoid 1420 isolates the
second disconnect 1405 and the patch 1402. The patch solenoid 1420,
when closed facilitates testing of the patch 1402 to ensure a
proper seal with the wound area (not shown).
[0065] FIG. 15 is a flow diagram of a process for administering
infusion therapy in conjunction with vacuum therapy and oxygenation
therapy according to an exemplary embodiment. A process 1500 begins
at step 1502. At step 1504, a therapeutic agent such as, for
example, saline, any wound-treating drugs, antibiotics, or any
combination thereof is administered to a wound area via the patch
1402. Vacuum pressure is also administered to the wound area via
the patch 1402. In a typical embodiment, the vacuum pressure is in
the range of approximately 0 mmHg to approximately 150 mmHg. During
step 1504, the temperature control 1406 regulates the temperature
of the therapeutic agent to achieve a therapeutically-beneficial
temperature. In a typical embodiment, the
therapeutically-beneficial temperature is in the range of ambient
temperature to approximately 105.degree. F. In a typical
embodiment, step 1504 has a duration of approximately 10 seconds.
At step 1506, the pump 1414 is turned off and the pump solenoid
1418 is closed. The therapeutic agent continues to be administered
to the wound area via the patch 1402. In a typical embodiment, step
1506 has a duration of approximately 10 seconds. At step 1508, the
oxygen-vent solenoid 1428 is opened allowing oxygen supplied by the
oxygen concentrator 1416 to be vented to the exterior environment.
In a typical embodiment, step 1508 has a duration of approximately
5 seconds. At step 1510, the patch solenoid 1420 and the infusion
solenoid 1428 are closed while the vacuum vent solenoid 1422 and
the oxygen vent solenoid 1424 are opened. In a typical embodiment,
step 1510 has a duration of approximately 20 seconds. At step 1512,
the vacuum vent solenoid 1422 and the oxygen vent solenoid 1424 are
closed. In a typical embodiment, step 1512 has a duration of
approximately 15 minutes to approximately 16 minutes. At step 1514,
the pump solenoid 1418, the patch solenoid 1420, the oxygen vent
solenoid 1428 are opened thereby allowing the wound area to be
flushed. In a typical embodiment, step 1514 has a duration of
approximately 30 seconds. The process ends at step 1516.
[0066] FIG. 16 is a schematic diagram of a wound-care system
according to an exemplary embodiment. The wound-care system 1600
includes a controller 1601 having a first disconnect 1603 and a
second disconnect 1605. The first disconnect 1603 is fluidly
coupled to an oxygen concentrator 1616 and the second disconnect
1605 is fluidly coupled to a pump 1614. A patch 1602 includes an
infusion tube 1608 and a vacuum tube 1610. The infusion tube 1608
is fluidly coupled to the first disconnect 1603 and the vacuum tube
1610 is fluidly coupled to the second disconnect 1605. Thus, in
operation, vacuum pressure, generated by the pump 1614, is applied
to the patch 1602 via the second disconnect 1605 and the vacuum
tube 1610. Similarly, oxygen, supplied by the oxygen concentrator
1616, is applied to the patch 1602 via the first disconnect 1603
and the infusion tube 1608.
[0067] Still referring to FIG. 16, oxygen supplied by the oxygen
concentrator 1616 passes through humidifier 1621. The humidifier
1621 facilitates delivery of oxygen that is humidified above
ambient humidity to the wound site. In a typical embodiment, the
oxygen delivery is at a partial pressure of approximately 22 mmHg.
An exudate bottle 1612 is fluidly coupled to the vacuum tube 1610.
During operation, the exudate bottle 1612 collects fluids and
materials removed through the patch 1602 by operation of vacuum
pressure supplied by the pump 1614. Thus, the pump 1614 remains
sterile during operation.
[0068] Still referring to FIG. 16, an oxygen solenoid 1624 is
disposed within the controller 1601 and is fluidly coupled to the
oxygen concentrator 1616 and the first disconnect 1603. When open,
the oxygen solenoid 1624 fluidly couples the oxygen concentrator
1616 to the first disconnect 1603. When closed, the oxygen solenoid
1624 isolates the oxygen concentrator 1616. An oxygen vent 1630 is
fluidly coupled to oxygen concentrator 1616, the oxygen solenoid
1624, the first disconnect 1603 and an exterior environment. During
operation, the oxygen vent 1630 allows oxygen supplied by the
oxygen concentrator 1616 to be vented to the exterior environment.
An oxygen-vent solenoid 1628 is fluidly coupled to the oxygen vent
1630. When open, the oxygen-vent solenoid 1628 allows oxygen
supplied by the oxygen concentrator 1616 to be vented to the
exterior environment. When closed, the oxygen-vent solenoid 1628
prevents oxygen supplied by the oxygen concentrator 1616 from being
vented to the exterior environment. In a typical embodiment, the
oxygen supplied by the concentrator is in the range of
approximately 75% to approximately 100% oxygen.
[0069] Still referring to FIG. 16, a pump solenoid 1618 is disposed
within the controller 1601 and fluidly coupled to the pump 1614 and
the second disconnect 1605. When open, the pump solenoid 1618
fluidly couples the pump 1614 to the second disconnect 1605. When
closed, the pump solenoid 1618 isolates the pump 1614. A vacuum
vent 1632 is fluidly coupled to pump 1614, the pump solenoid 1618,
the second disconnect 1605 and an exterior environment. During
operation, the vacuum vent 1632 allows pressure generated by the
pump 1614 to be vented to the exterior environment. A vacuum-vent
solenoid 1622 is fluidly coupled to the vacuum vent 1632. When
open, the vacuum-vent solenoid 1622 allows pressure generated by
the pump 1614 to be vented to the exterior environment. When
closed, the vacuum-vent solenoid 1622 prevents pressure generated
by the pump 1614 from being vented to the exterior environment. A
patch solenoid 1620 is fluidly coupled to the pump 1614 between the
vacuum vent 1632 and the second disconnect 1605. When open, the
patch solenoid 1620 fluidly couples the second disconnect 1605 to
the pump 1614. When closed, the patch solenoid 1620 isolates the
second disconnect 1605 and the patch 1602. The patch solenoid 1620,
when closed facilitates testing of the patch 1602 to ensure a
proper seal with the wound area (not shown).
[0070] The previous Detailed Description is of embodiment(s) of the
invention. The scope of the invention should not necessarily be
limited by this Description. The scope of the invention is instead
defined by the following claims and the equivalents thereof.
* * * * *