DEVICE FOR THE CONTINUOUS DRAINAGE OF GAS THROUGH A NATURAL OPENING IN A PATIENT'S BODY

Abstract

The present invention relates to an apparatus for removing, in a manner that is as odour-free as possible, intestinal gas or other malodorous gases as part of a system for the closed, preferably continuous, removal and / or collection of stools or other strongly odour-forming excretions or secretions from the human or animal body, wherein the stool or the removed excretions or secretions are guided outside the body through a hose- or tube-like structure which, in addition to an inflow port and an outflow port and a passage region that connects said ports and is intended for the passage of stool or other excretions or secretions, has a branch where intestinal gas or other malodorous gases are separated from the stool or the other excretions or secretions and are conducted through an adsorption and / or filter device to an outlet, wherein at least some regions of the adsorption and / or filter device are spaced apart from the passage region in order to prevent, as far as possible, close contact with the stool or other excretions or secretions flowing through the passage region.

Description

[0001] Device for the continuous drainage of gas through a natural or artificial opening in the body of a patient. The present invention describes a device for the most odor-neutral possible drainage of intestinal gas or other malodorous gases, as part of a system for the closed, preferably continuous, drainage and / or collection of stool or other strongly odorous excretions or secretions from the human or animal body, wherein the stool or the drained excretions or secretions are conveyed extracorporeally through a tube- or pipe-shaped drainage line downstream to a collection container.

[0002] Devices for the continuous drainage of stool from a patient's rectum are an established component of modern medical and nursing care. The stool drainage systems known today typically feature a torus- or balloon-shaped head unit that anchors (retains) the device within the patient's rectum. The head unit also includes a tube component that collects the stool from the rectum and guides it through the anus or anal sphincter. The torus- or balloon element, which retains the drainage in the rectum, is fixed distally to this tube.The rectally anchored head unit, which drains stool transanally, is connected to another extracorporeal tube segment that carries the stool from the patient into a collection container, usually a bag-shaped one. This container is typically attached to the bed frame at a level below the patient, allowing the stool to drain downwards. The bag is generally replaceable and features a manually operated closure system for attaching it to the drainage unit. This connection may, for example, be a bayonet-style fitting. The stool collection bag typically incorporates a degassing function or component that releases intestinal gas from the drainage system into the surrounding environment, or prevents gas buildup in the abdomen by continuously decompressing the drainage system.Sufficient decompression of intestinal gas is of high clinical relevance during treatment, as intestinal gas can accumulate as far as the upper part of the small intestine and trigger leukemic-like symptoms. Congestion-related flatulence can also impair diaphragmatic mobility and thus affect the patient's mechanical ventilation. The degassing component of the bag is often equipped with an adsorber or filter that binds fecal, fecal, or other unpleasant-smelling substances.

[0003] Conventional stool drains are often unable to provide sufficient decompression or odor control (adsorption) when dealing with large volumes of gas or particularly strong-smelling stools. This is usually due to an insufficient amount of adsorbing or filtering material, but also to the typical positioning of the gas-releasing component within the stool-collecting space of the collection bag. The degassing function of a filter integrated into the bag wall can be impaired by temporary, flat storage of the bag, as frequently occurs during transport or patient positioning. When the bag is in a horizontal position, its contents come into contact with the gas-releasing component and contaminate or wet its interior, which can limit the overall system's decompression capacity.Furthermore, the filter or adsorbent material used can become saturated with liquid and thus permanently lose its gas-releasing, decompressing function. The disadvantages of the described prior art give rise to the problem that initiated the invention: to ensure, within the framework of a generic device for the drainage and / or collection of stool or other strongly odorous excretions or secretions from the human or animal body, that this device emits as little odor as possible.

[0004] In a device of this type, the solution to this problem is achieved by a hose- or tube-shaped structure inserted upstream of the collection compartment of the collection container, which, in addition to an inlet and an outlet connection and a connecting passage area for the passage of stool or other excretions or secretions, has a branch where intestinal gas or other foul-smelling gases are separated from the stool or other excretions or secretions and directed to an outlet via an adsorption and / or absorption and / or filter device.

[0005] The invention thus describes a device for adsorbing and / or filtering strongly odorous gases produced in the body, which is integrated, for example, into a system for the continuous, closed drainage and collection of stool, or for the drainage of other strongly odorous excretions or secretions. The device is specifically designed for a continuously efficient, position-independent degassing function. The drained excretions or secretions are guided within the device through the tube-, hose-, or T-piece-like base element in such a way that, when the device is in an approximately vertical, normal position, contamination or blockage of the components that discharge the gas to the environment is largely avoided, and accumulations of, for example, intestinal gas within the system are prevented.The device can optionally be permanently integrated into the system or installed by the user as a gas-tight, connectable accessory unit. The device preferably has a separating layer for the adsorbing and / or filtering medium, which repels liquid and / or stool but is permeable to gas. The adsorbing and / or filtering medium is optionally integrated into the device in a fixed or removable, replaceable design. The device is positioned between the drainage catheter and the collecting bag unit, and is therefore not continuously exposed to the bag contents. The collecting bag has a backflow-preventing function that retains material already in the bag, even if the bag is moved from its normal vertical position to a flat position.The device further ensures that any gas that has entered the collecting space of the vessel overcomes a backflow-inhibiting function integrated into the vessel and is fed to the gas-draining device located upstream of the collecting vessel. In the preferred embodiment, the device described in the invention for draining gases formed in the body has a basic element in the form of a T-piece, with the upper, distal end, directed towards the patient, being directly opposite the lower, proximal end of the T-piece, directed towards the collection bag, in axial extension. In the preferred embodiment, the free leg of the T-piece, which is directed laterally towards the environment and is open, accommodates the odor-adsorbing and / or filtering unit filled with a suitable substance, for example, an activated carbon-based substance.In addition to surface-active adsorbing substances that bind odorants to the surface, absorbent substances that take up the odor-causing substances in the form of a physical "solution" are also suitable. The unit can be permanently attached to the lateral leg or connected to it via a suitable connection, for example, by being clipped on.

[0006] It is essential for the function of the invention that, in the normal, vertical positioning of the degassing assembly in the stool drainage system, intestinal gas can escape from the system unhindered and efficiently, even in large quantities. If the assembly is moved from its normal vertical position to a temporary horizontal position, any potential blockage of the components required for degassing by stool should be prevented as effectively as possible. Within the scope of the invention, the adsorbing and / or filtering material is separated from the stool drained through the tubing and collected in the bag by various structural features. The invention describes a basic design of the device in which the adsorbing and / or filtering material is already integrated into the collection container or...The contents of the collection bag are directed backflow to the degassing assembly when in a horizontal position, for example by foil-based, backflow-inhibiting, lip- or sail-like components, and the degassing assembly is, in principle, structurally located upstream of the collection container.

[0007] It is within the scope of the invention that the longitudinal direction of the flow channel between the branch and the adsorption and / or absorption and / or filter device forms an angle of 90° or less with the longitudinal direction of the passage between the branch and the outlet connection, for example, an angle of 75° or less, preferably an angle of 60° or less, in particular an angle of 45° or less, or even an angle of 30° or less. If said angle is less than 90°, the longitudinal direction of the flow channel between the branch and the adsorption and / or absorption and / or filter device is preferably inclined upwards, i.e., offset towards the inlet connection.

[0008] The maximum flow cross-section in the area between the branch and the adsorption and / or absorption and / or filter device can be equal to or smaller than the minimum flow cross-section in the main channel. Such a reduction is unproblematic because only gases are intended to flow through the adsorption and / or absorption and / or filter device anyway.

[0009] Following this purpose, whereby the area between the branch and the adsorption and / or absorption and / or filter device is intended to serve only as a flow channel for gases, it can be provided according to the invention that the flow cross-section in the area between the branch and the adsorption and / or absorption and / or filter device is narrowed compared to the minimum flow cross-section in the passage area by an obstacle which offers at least solid substances, but preferably also liquid substances, greater resistance than gaseous substances.

[0010] Preferably, such an obstacle is designed as a tongue that is arranged within the passage area approximately at the level of the branch.

[0011] The invention can be further developed such that the obstruction is designed as a tongue that is attached upstream of the branch and at least partially covers the branch to the adsorption and / or absorption and / or filter device in the passage area when stool or other excretions or secretions are being passed through. Such a tongue can be fixed either only at its upstream edge or also at its two adjacent edges. The tongue can be flexible and / or elastic to a limited extent and is preferably made of plastic.It should be connected along its defined edges in such a way that it acquires a preferred direction relative to the longitudinal direction of the passage area. Thanks to its inherently sufficient rigidity, this direction is always maintained, regardless of the orientation of the passage area, ensuring that the branch for gases remains open at all times. The primary purpose of the tongue is to keep excretions or secretions away from the adsorption, absorption, and / or filtering device, while simultaneously preventing or facilitating the escape of gases to the adsorption, absorption, and / or filtering device. A small opening cross-section in the area of ​​a free edge of the tongue is sufficient for gas discharge.Such an opening cross-section could also be ensured by providing one or more bumps or other protrusions on the back of the tongue, which faces the lumen branching off from the through-flow lumen, ensuring a minimum distance between the tongue and the edge of the drainage opening; of course, such bumps could also be arranged in the area of ​​the edge of the drainage opening and come into contact with it when the tongue approaches.

[0012] The tongue can be integrated with the tube- or pipe-shaped structure or connected by gluing or another joining technique.

[0013] Preferably, the transition area between the tongue and the tube- or tubular structure is not articulated, but rather rigid, so that the tongue always maintains its orientation in a predetermined direction.

[0014] The tongue may have one or more holes to allow gases to pass through.

[0015] Furthermore, the inlet opening of the adsorption and / or absorption and / or filter device facing the flow area or branch can be covered by a gas-permeable, but preferably water-repellent, separating layer. This is a further measure to keep the filter open to gases at all times. A preferred embodiment of the invention consists in the separating layer having a surface that is only slightly wettable (lotus effect), particularly on its side facing the flow area or branch, so that the undesirable adhesion of excretions or secretions is avoided.

[0016] The separation layer can be formed, for example, as a microporous membrane, for example made of expanded polytetrafluoroethylene, for example with a maximum pore diameter of less than 1 mm, preferably with a maximum pore diameter of 100 mm or less, in particular with a maximum pore diameter of 10 mm or less.

[0017] On the other hand, the separating layer can also be made from paper, especially non-woven paper.

[0018] It is within the scope of the invention that the adsorption and / or absorption and / or filter device comprises one or more surface-active adsorbing substances that attach odorants to the surface, and / or one or more absorbing substances that absorb the odor-active substances in the manner of a physical solution.

[0019] For example, the adsorption and / or absorption and / or filtering device can comprise an adsorbing or absorbing or filtering granulate, such as activated carbon, for example in an amount of 100 ml or less, preferably in an amount of 50 ml or less, in particular in an amount of 20 ml or less, or in an amount of 10 ml or less, or even in a

[0020] Amount of 5 ml or less.

[0021] It is recommended that the adsorption and / or absorption and / or filtration device contain the granules, for example, activated carbon, in an amount of 2 ml or more, preferably in an amount of 5 ml or more, particularly in an amount of 10 ml or less, or in an amount of 20 ml or more, or even in an amount of 30 ml or more. To guide the gas to be purified through the adsorption and / or absorption and / or filtration device in a controlled manner, the device should have one or more lamellar structures inside it, which can function as walls in a labyrinth.

[0022] A particularly good cleaning or filtering effect is achieved when the gas to be cleaned is passed through the adsorption and / or absorption and / or filtering device along the longest possible path. This can be achieved in particular by offsetting several lamellar structures against each other and / or interlocking them like interlocking fingers.

[0023] Another method of creating the longest possible path for a gas to be purified within the adsorption and / or absorption and / or filter device is to have at least one helical, spiral and / or helix-shaped structure inside the adsorption and / or absorption and / or filter device, so that the gas is forced to flow along this helical, spiral and / or helix-shaped structure.

[0024] The invention can be further developed such that the adsorption and / or absorption and / or filter device comprises an infectious agent-filtering material, particularly in the region of its downstream or outlet-side opening. Such a measure can limit the transmission of diseases.

[0025] If the adsorption and / or absorption and / or filter device is arranged in a replaceable cartridge or in a removable cap, it can be replaced with a new one in just a few steps after the adsorption and / or absorption and / or filter material has been exhausted.

[0026] The replaceable cartridge or removable cap should have one or more outlet openings on its free end or circumference, allowing the purified or filtered gas to escape into the environment. Replacing a used cartridge or cap is particularly easy if the replaceable cartridge or removable cap can be connected to the hose or tube structure downstream of its branch point via a bayonet fitting or a screw cap.

[0027] Since the replaceable cartridge or the removable cap can optionally be connected to the inlet connection of the hose- or tube-shaped structure via its closure, it can be applied to the inlet connection as an odor-proof seal for disposing of a filled collection bag.

[0028] Further developing the inventive concept, it can be provided that the tube- or hose-shaped structure and / or the replaceable cartridge and / or the removable cap have at least one compartment for holding a fragrance. Such fragrances can improve the indoor climate; in particular, they mask odors that may not be completely filtered out.

[0029] The compartment for holding a fragrance can be open to the outside. However, in order to ensure that the fragrance is released only during use of the device according to the invention, the compartment for holding a fragrance can be closed with a removable cover, for example in the form of a peel-off film.

[0030] The invention can be further developed in such a way that the compartment for receiving a fragrance is ring-shaped and surrounds a central outlet opening of the adsorption and / or absorption and / or filter device in a ring shape.

[0031] In such an embodiment, a wick or a non-woven and / or wide-mesh and / or large-pored fabric can be arranged within the central opening of the annular compartment for receiving a fragrance, e.g. a wick stretched across the central opening or a non-woven and / or wide-mesh and / or large-pored fabric which extends into the compartment containing the fragrance to be moistened with fragrance.

[0032] Furthermore, the hose- or tube-shaped structure for connecting a hose or collection container or bag or the like may have a bayonet fitting or a screw fitting at its inlet connection and / or at its outlet connection.

[0033] Furthermore, the hose- or tube-shaped structure can be integrated with a collection vessel or bag, particularly in the area of ​​its inlet connection.

[0034] On the other hand, it is also possible that the hose- or tube-shaped structure has a hose or pipe extension that communicates with the adsorption and / or absorption and / or filter device from its outlet side via the branch.

[0035] Such a hose or pipe extension communicating with the adsorption and / or absorption and / or filter device may extend into a collection vessel or collection bag, in particular beyond any backflow-inhibiting film or other backflow-inhibiting structure located there.

[0036] Furthermore, the tubular or tube-shaped structure can be integrated or connected to a head unit that is anchored or can be anchored in the rectum of a patient, or which can be anchored in the rectum via a balloon element that is placed or can be placed in the rectum.

[0037] Odor formation during the continuous use of a stool drainage system can also originate from the drainage tube positioned between the patient and the bag, with the barrier properties of the tube material playing a crucial role. Conventional systems, typically made of silicone-based materials, are unsuitable for odor-proof, continuous stool drainage without an additional coating, such as one made of parylene-based substances. The poor barrier properties of silicone are due to its pronounced porosity.Even elaborate coatings on the silicone surface generally do not provide a sufficient odor barrier effect. Recently, novel silicone-based systems have been introduced that feature a special, separately manufactured inner tube made of nylon or Teflon-like material, installed as a separate component, thus enabling a significantly improved odor barrier.

[0038] To improve odor sealing, as an alternative to silicone-based hose components, particularly cost-effective PVC-based or PVC-co-extruded hose materials can be used. Their barrier effect is sufficiently efficient for the majority of chairs, even without additional coating or inner hose technology.

[0039] The described device for decompression of intestinal gas and for adsorption of odorants is therefore preferably used in combination with PVC-based, PVC-containing or PVC-layer co-extruded stool-draining tubing.

[0040] To minimize the diffusion of odorants through inlet or outlet hoses, an integrated or connectable hose or head unit and / or an integrated or connectable collection bag, the hose- or tube-shaped structure and / or an integrated or connectable collection vessel and / or an integrated or connectable collection bag and / or an integrated or connectable hose or head unit may be made of a PVC-based material or of a PVC-containing material or coated or co-extruded with one or more layers of PVC.

[0041] The device according to the invention can be structurally arranged in series or parallel to the chair-discharging system.

[0042] Preferably, the tubular or pipe-shaped structure has a T-shaped form. The invention further provides that the drained stool or excretions or secretions are guided through the tubular, pipe-shaped, or T-shaped structure of the device in such a way that, when the device is in an approximately vertical normal position, contamination or blockage of the gas-draining components of the device is largely avoided, thereby preventing, in particular, the accumulation of intestinal gas within the system. The invention assumes that during drainage, the stool or other excretions or secretions are guided by gravity through the drainage line to the collection container. Therefore, a vertical orientation of the arrangement, and consequently also a vertical orientation of the collection container, is preferred for the operation of the system.Precautions have been taken to ensure this vertical alignment, in order to largely prevent contamination or blockage of the gas-venting components of the device.

[0043] In order to ensure such a vertical orientation of the collection bag, the invention provides that a hook for vertically hanging attachment of the collection bag is provided on the tube- or pipe- or T-shaped structure.

[0044] The invention can be further developed in such a way that the hook is designed to project so far that, even when the collection bag is laid flat, the hose-, tube- or T-shaped structure connected to the collection bag is inclined upwards in an upstream direction, so that the odor seal according to the invention functions despite a not perfectly vertical orientation.

[0045] Finally, it is in accordance with the teaching of the invention that the hook is designed as a double-sided hook projecting in diametrical directions or as a retaining bracket rotatable about the longitudinal axis of the tube-, pipe-, or T-shaped structure and optionally lockable in predetermined positions. Thus, it is irrelevant to the functionality which side of the collection bag is placed; the tube-, pipe-, or T-shaped structure connected to the collection bag is always aligned with a sufficiently vertical component to ensure the proper functioning of the odor trap. In the case of a double-sided hook projecting over both flat sides of the collection bag, the user is relieved of any responsibility for ensuring a sufficiently vertical alignment; with a rotatable hook, the user must ensure that the hook is pivoted towards the flat side of the collection bag that is facing downwards.

[0046] Further structural and functional features of the odor-adsorbing, and / or filtering, and / or gas-dissipating unit according to the invention will become apparent from the following description of preferred embodiments of the invention and from the drawing. The drawing shows:

[0047] Fig. 1a shows a lateral arrangement of the degassing unit relative to the chair-discharging base element of the device;

[0048] Fig. 1b shows an embodiment of the device according to the invention in the form of a T-piece, wherein the decompressing and / or filtering unit is reversibly detachable or fixedly attached to the free end of the laterally extending leg or connected to the outer wall of the leg;

[0049] Fig. 1c shows a further embodiment of the device according to the invention in the form of a T-piece, wherein the respective decompressing and / or filtering substance is integrated in a fixed construction into the inner lumen of the lateral leg of the T-piece;

[0050] Fig. 2 shows a device that can be inserted into the stool-draining lumen of the system for decompression, adsorption and / or filtration of intestinal gas;

[0051] Fig. 3a shows an exemplary structure of a degassing unit arranged laterally to the stool-draining lumen, with layered, meandering gas flow through the adsorber and / or filter material; Fig. 3b shows a particular combination of a degassing unit permanently integrated into the lumen of the base element with an accessory unit, interchangeable from bag to bag, with increased adsorber or filter capacity; Fig. 3c shows a design of the device according to the invention with spiral gas flow through the adsorbing or filtering medium;

[0052] Fig. 4 shows a device according to the invention, which provides a hose- or tube-like, or for example U-shaped profiled, gas-discharging component as a connection between the stool-receiving space of a collection bag and the gas-discharging unit upstream of the bag;

[0053] Fig. 5 shows a further embodiment of the device according to the invention, in which the gas-draining T-piece is installed in a fixed design in the inlet portion of a collecting vessel, and the adsorber and / or filter function is integrated in a closure cap, which sits on the lateral leg of the T-piece during the collection phase and, upon completion of the collection, is placed on the patient-side, upward-facing leg of the T-piece for a secure closure of the bag;

[0054] Fig. 6a shows an accessory adsorber and / or filter module which releases scented or odor-neutralizing substances via a reservoir and dispenser component integrated into the housing of the module;

[0055] Fig. 6b shows a dispenser module which is attached to or directly extended from the gas-venting opening of the device and releases odor-neutralizing fragrances via an integrated reservoir function;

[0056] Fig. 7 shows an embodiment of a valve-like, flow-directing double layer of films; and Fig. 8 shows an embodiment of a bag-like collecting vessel.

[0057] Fig. 1a shows a stool-draining device 1 that vents intestinal gas to the environment. This device is arranged as a separate, modular unit between the bag-side end 2 of the drainage line 12 and the stool-receiving inlet 3 of the collection bag 13. The device 1 has connecting components 2a and 3a at each end, facing the drainage line 12 and the collection bag 13, respectively. These components allow the device 1 to be inserted into the stool drainage system in a serial arrangement, preferably in the area of ​​the transition from the drainage to the collection bag 13 and the stool-receiving container. A base element 4 connects the connecting components 2a and 3a in such a way that they are in communicative communication with each other.

[0058] A degassing, adsorbing, and / or filtering module 5 is attached to the outer circumference of the wall of the tubular-cylindrical base element 4 of the device, either in a reversibly detachable form or permanently connected to the base element 4. The module 5 conforms to the wall of the base element 4 as a circularly closed cuff or as an open, C-shaped shell. In the area where the filter module 5 is attached, the base element 4 has one or more openings 6, followed by a slit-like space 6a. This space, facing the adsorbing or filtering material, is bounded by a water-impermeable but gas-permeable separating layer 7. The separating layer 7 can, for example, consist of a Gore-Tex-like material, which may be supplemented on the side facing the space 6a by a dirt-repellent, for example, lotus-like, effect.Alternatively, a cost-effective, HME-filter-typical nonwoven paper can be used as the separating layer 7, which is also water-repellent and simultaneously air-permeable. Conceptually, the side of the separating layer 7 facing the stool is preferably designed such that exposure to stool does not lead to a permanent, gas-tight seal of the separating layer 7. Preferably, at the lower end of the space 6a, which faces the bag 13, this space transitions via an opening 6b into the stool-carrying or stool-draining space of the base element 4. Stool that enters the space 6a via the openings 6 can thus flow back into the lumen of the base element 4 via the opening 6b. In a variation of this design, the stool-carrying lumen of the base element 4 can also be connected to the space 6a only via the opening 6b, i.e., without any openings 6.The space 6a then extends upwards from the opening 6b in a chimney-like manner, thereby protecting the separating layer 7 located above the opening 6b from direct chair exposure in the vertical normal position of the device 1.

[0059] Fig. 1b shows an embodiment with a T-shaped base element 4 having a lateral leg 9 opening towards the surroundings, on which the adsorbing and / or filtering module 5 is mounted. In the preferred embodiment of this design, the leg 9 is inclined upwards or upstream in the drainage direction at an angle N to the vertical or longitudinal axis of the base element 4, of approximately 15 to 60 degrees, preferably 30 to 45 degrees. Thus, when the device 1 or the unit consisting of the stool-draining drainage tube 12, the degassing device 1, and the collecting bag 13 is in a suspended, approximately vertical normal position, the module 5 is protected from the direct inflow of stool. Stool that has already entered the leg 9 can drain from there, following the inclination of the leg 9, into the lumen of the base element 4.In addition to the described inclination of the degassing leg, the transition to the stool-conducting lumen of the base element 4 can be protected by a tongue 4a in the form of a curtain- or canopy-like structure to prevent stool from entering the degassing leg 9 even more effectively. The tongue 4a, as a shielding structure, emerges, for example, from the inner wall of the base element 4 in the transition area 4b between the laterally extending leg 9 and the vertically upward- or upstream-extending leg of the T-shaped base element 4, and extends down over the lower transition 4c of the laterally extending leg 9 into the vertically downward- or downstream-extending leg of the T-shaped base element 4.

[0060] As an alternative to positioning a modular device 5 between drainage line 12 and collection bag 13 as a functional unit that can be connected serially as needed, the basic element 4 can also be integrated directly into the upper inlet area 3 of the collection vessel 13 in a fixed design. In the case of a bag-like container 13, its film body is tightly connected to the downward-facing leg of the T-piece, which points towards the bag 13, by direct welding or gluing.

[0061] Fig. 1c shows an embodiment of the device 1 based on Fig. 1b, in which the adsorbing and / or filtering material is already integrated in a fixed structure into the lateral, gas-draining leg 9 of the T-shaped base element 4, which opens the entire system of drainage 12 and bag 13 to the environment. The leg is dimensioned such that it can hold, for example, approximately 5 to 10 ml of activated carbon granules. The carbon granules are separated from the stool-guiding, upper and lower legs of the T-shaped base element 4 by a gas-permeable, water-repellent separating layer 7. The opening of the leg 9 on the side facing the stool is provided with a cap-like closure, which has openings 5a for gas release to the environment.

[0062] Fig. 2 shows an embodiment of the device 1, wherein the outlet of intestinal gas is provided by a hose-like or tube-like insert 10, which is inserted into the stool-collecting unit. The insert 10 is inserted through a precisely shaped opening 11, which, when not in use, is closed, for example, with a cap-like element. In the preferred embodiment, the distal end of the insert 10 is advanced into the stool-collecting interior of the bag 13, projecting beyond any backflow-inhibiting film layers 13a, so that the films do not impede the retrograde discharge of gas from the bag 13 and thus gas already in the bag can be discharged to the environment. The proximal end of the insert 10 has a fixed adsorber and / or filter module 5 at its end.The insertion is optionally located in the area 2 of the stool drainage catheter tube 12 near the bag, but preferably in the area of ​​the connection between the drainage catheter 12 and the collection bag 13, for example, through an opening integrated into the respective connector or parts thereof. In the preferred embodiment, the insertion 10 has openings 10a with the largest possible lumens, which open into the stool-carrying space above the anti-return membranes 13a. The tube-like portion of the insertion 10b, which extends beyond the anti-return membranes into the collection space of the bag 13, is preferably provided with a smaller lumen to limit any potential backflow of liquid contents. The module 5 is positioned approximately 10 cm above the opening 11 to prevent contamination by the bag contents when the bag 13 is in its normal vertical position.

[0063] Fig. 3a shows an embodiment of the gas-draining device 1 corresponding to Fig. 1b, with a T-piece-like base element 4, wherein a module 5 containing adsorber and / or filter material is tightly fitted onto the lateral leg 9. The module 5 has internal lamellar structures 16 that guide the gas flowing from the system as efficiently as possible, while making the best possible use of the odor-binding and / or filtering capacity, from the module base 14 to the module lid 15 through the module contents. The lamellae 16 can, for example, be horizontally offset, interlock like fingers, or be arranged in a spiral or helical pattern. In the preferred case, the module 5 is arranged relative to the base element 4 such that the leverage force exerted by the module 5 on the unit consisting of the drainage catheter 12, the degassing device 1, and the collecting bag 13 is kept as small as possible, thus preventing the unit, which is usually suspended, from tipping forward.Module 5 should have a correspondingly flat design, closely resembling the base element 4 and minimizing any shift in the center of gravity. The activated carbon content in module 5 of the described design should be between 20 and 100 ml, preferably between 30 and 50 ml.

[0064] Fig. 3b shows a combination of an adsorber or filter fixed in the lateral leg 9 according to Fig. 1a, wherein an accessory filtering and / or adsorbing filter cartridge 5b can be reversibly attached to the leg 9 as an additional unit. To optimize the seal in the joint between leg 9 and cartridge 5b, the cartridge 5b is provided with a tight lip or an O-ring-like seal 5c. The gas exiting the end face of leg 9 is received through corresponding openings 5d in the socket-like recess in the base of the cartridge 5b and guided through the adsorbing or filtering material by lamellar webs 16 for the most efficient adsorption possible. To prevent germs or viruses from escaping the system into the environment, appropriate spore-, bacteria- and virus-proof filter material 5e is placed in front of the outlet openings of the cartridge lid.

[0065] Fig. 3c shows a special form of gas flow through the filter or adsorber material, wherein the interior of the module 5 is provided with a spirally or helically shaped separating wall 16a, which widens outwards from the center or the inlet opening and opens to the environment via a further opening 17. To prevent the escape of infectious agents such as viruses or bacterial spores, a correspondingly filtering material 5e is positioned upstream of the opening 17.

[0066] Fig. 4 shows a flexible or rigid, tube- or hose-like component 21, the end 21a of which facing the patient is fixed to the inner wall of the base element 4, preferably in the region of the lateral leg 9, and the proximal end 21b of which extends beyond the lower end of the base element 4 into the stool-collecting space of the collection vessel 13. The component 21 can overcome backflow-inhibiting components, such as flap-like, tightly fitting, and valve-like layers of film 13a, so that intestinal gas that has entered the bag 13 can be emptied through the lumen of the component 21 and / or along the outside of the component 21, preferably directly into the gas-draining leg 9 of the device 1.Figure 5 shows a further embodiment of a device 1 according to the invention, wherein the T-piece-like base element 4 is firmly integrated into the inlet portion 3 of the bag 13, preferably welded or glued in place. The lateral leg 9 is provided with a bayonet-like locking mechanism 9a, which corresponds to the locking mechanism 2a for connecting the drainage catheter 12 to the bag 13. During the stool collection phase, the lateral leg 9 is closed with a cap 19. The cap 19 integrates a cartridge 20 with filter material 21 based on activated carbon. As described above, the free opening of the leg 9 is provided with a gas-permeable, but water- and / or dirt-repellent separating layer 7, which prevents stool from escaping from the T-piece-like base element 4. The cap 19 is connected to the leg 9 in a gas-tight manner.The cap 19 has an opening 22 at its end for the gas outlet. As an alternative to a cartridge-like vessel, the interior of the cap 19 can be filled directly with carbon or adsorbent or filter material, wherein the filled space can be sealed on both sides 23a and 23b, for example, with stable but gas-permeable separating layers made of porous sintered material. In the case of the use of activated carbon, the volume is 4 to 10 ml, preferably 5 to 6 ml.

[0067] When the bag 13 is separated from the drainage 12 and disposed of, the closure cap 19 is detached from the leg 9, placed on the connection 2a, and tightly connected there. The separating layer 7 then prevents the free outflow of liquid through the lateral leg 9.

[0068] To make it more difficult for diverted stool to enter the lateral limb 9, a tongue 4a in the form of a curtain-like or siphon-like structure is also provided inside the T-piece-like basic element 4 to protect the transition from the stool-carrying path to the laterally branching limb 9.

[0069] To drain intestinal gas that has already entered the collecting space of the bag 13, or to direct gas via a backflow-inhibiting function integrated in the collecting bag 13, such as backflow-inhibiting film layers 13a, into the T-piece-shaped base element upstream of the backflow inhibition

[0070] To return the gas to the inlet portion 4 and from there discharge it to the environment via the adsorber and / or filter 5, the T-shaped base element 4 has a rod-like, tube-like, or hose-like extension 25 at its proximal end, which extends over a backflow-inhibiting film or other function into the collecting bag 13. The profile of the extension 25 is designed such that gas can be directed either around or through the extension 25 from the collecting interior of the bag 13 to areas upstream of the bag 13. In the described design with a T-piece 4 permanently integrated into the inlet portion 3 of the bag 13, an outlet integrated directly into the bag wall, which is common in conventional collecting bags 13, can therefore be advantageously omitted.Outlet components that are integrated into the wall of the collecting compartment are particularly problematic when the collection bag 13 is in a flat position and the bag contents may then wet or soak the filter, causing the filter to partially or completely lose its degassing function.

[0071] Figure 6a shows a modified design of a module 5, 5b, which, in addition to an adsorbing and / or filtering effect, has a fragrance-releasing function. The release of perfume-like or odor-masking substances occurs from a compartment 26, which is integrated into the housing of the module 5 but is completely separated from its adsorbing or filtering medium. An absorbent storage component 27, made of, for example, multi-layered pressed cellulose, is inserted into the compartment 26. This component absorbs the fragrance over its correspondingly large total surface area and releases it gradually from its front surface facing the environment. The compartment 26 can be sealed with a release film 28. Alternatively, the fragrance can be released from a separate container 28, for example, a capsule-like container, which is inserted into a corresponding recess in the module 5.The user can select and change the fragrance from a variety of fragrance options.

[0072] Fig. 6b describes an accessory dispenser module 29, which is placed directly on or immediately downstream of the gas-release opening 30 of the device 1 or the T-piece-like base element 4, and continuously releases odor-neutralizing fragrances into the immediate outlet area of ​​the device 1 via an integrated substance-releasing function. In this particular embodiment, intestinal gas exiting the device 1 or the stool drainage system through the gas-release opening 30 passes through a nonwoven, large-pored or open-mesh fabric 31, which absorbs the fragrance from a reservoir component 32 in a manner similar to a wick and releases it into the exiting gas via the correspondingly large surface area of ​​the porous or net-like structure of the nonwoven, thus masking its odor-causing components with correspondingly effective pleasant fragrances.

[0073] The released fragrance is preferably based on volatile, oil-based solutions with sufficiently good flow properties in the releasing nonwoven fabric. The reservoir 32, connected to the nonwoven fabric 31, consists, for example, of a felt-like or sponge-like component and can optionally be filled with fragrance from the outside via a small-diameter opening 33 – e.g., through an ampoule-like container that can be squeezed between the fingers – immediately before the module 5 is combined with the drainage device 1 or the T-piece-like base element 4. With this system, the user can choose between several fragrance variants. Furthermore, when changing the collection bag 13 or the entire system, the module 5 can be removed from the bag 13 or the system and transferred to a new bag 13 or a new system. Thus, the module 5 can be used for the entire duration of the drainage device 1's application for a single patient.Once the reservoir is exhausted, it can be refilled with fragrance through the opening.

[0074] Thus, the invention describes a device, either accessory or permanently integrated into a system draining stool or other secretions or excretions, for binding and / or filtering gases that collect, for example, within a continuous, closed stool drainage system, and wherein these gases are discharged or decompressed to the environment without releasing disturbing odors, wherein the device is structurally arranged in series or parallel to the stool drainage system, wherein the discharge of the gas to the environment takes place outside the collecting space of the collection vessel 13, and the respective gas-discharging component or function cannot be contaminated with collected contents and thus become inoperative.

[0075] Preferably, gas is discharged to the environment directly above the collecting chamber, for example, in the stool-draining hose of the system leading to the collecting chamber. Gas that has already entered the collecting chamber of the vessel 13 can be discharged, for example, through a rod-like, tube-like, or hose-like extension, into the area of ​​the gas outlet and decompressed from there. The gas-draining function of the filtering and / or absorbing material is maintained by a dirt- and / or water-repellent separating layer between the stool-draining interior of the device and the respective connected filter or absorber module 5.

[0076] Fig. 7 shows a special embodiment of a valve-like, flow-directing double layer of films that allows a backflow of gas from the collection container 13 into the system leading to the bag.

[0077] Fig. 8 shows an angled holding device for fixing the bag in a vertically hanging position, whereby the backflow of bag contents into the system leading to the bag is made more difficult when the bag is temporarily in a flat position.

[0078] Fig. 7 shows a valve-like, flow-directing arrangement of two layers of film 13ax and 13ay, which lie flat against each other and are installed inside the collection container 13. Material M flowing towards the collection container passes through the two

[0079] Liquid passes through the layers of film into the collecting chamber S of the container. If the container, in its normal vertical hanging or standing position, fills to the level of the two film layers or beyond, the liquid content causes the film algae to seal tightly, preventing unwanted outflow or backflow of contents from the collection container through the inlet opening. A similar effect occurs when gaseous substances enter the collection container. The gas filling also leads to a tight seal between the two film layers, causing the gas to gradually accumulate in the container. The resulting sealing pressure on the two film layers is so high that further inflow of liquid contents into the collection container is no longer possible. Without a corresponding structural modification of the anti-backflow function, the collection container must be replaced in this case.To vent gas that has already entered the bag, the invention provides specially designed film layers that are liquid-tight but allow gases to pass through freely. The film layers can consist entirely of a suitable material, for example, or exhibit the relevant properties only partially in specific segments. Advantageously, the gas-permeable function or unit is positioned where a complete closure of the two film layers is mechanically impossible, even when the container is filled to its maximum capacity. This is the case in the area of ​​the connection or transition 3a of the film layers to a pipe- or nozzle-like inlet or connector segment, where the sealing film layers are, for example, welded or glued in place. With an outer diameter of the inlet element of approximately 15 to 25 mm, this typically results inA wedge-shaped, open area Z, which remains open even when the vessel is fully filled, is provided. This area has a height of at least 5 to 15 mm and thus offers sufficient surface area for the described function or integration of a "gas-permeable separating layer" T. As an alternative to gas-permeable film material, a small, free opening O, for example 1 to 2 mm in diameter, can also be positioned in the wedge-shaped area Z. Preferably, however, a simple or cross-shaped slit is made in the described wedge-shaped area using a sharp blade, with each leg of the slit being approximately 5 mm long. While the slit cannot completely prevent backflow of contents into the segment above the collecting space, it does prevent a higher-volume backflow of already collected contents.

[0080] Fig. 8 shows an embodiment of a bag-like collection vessel 13, wherein, in a horizontal position of the bag 13, the outflow of bag contents into the inlet segment 4 of the bag 13 is hindered, reduced, or prevented by a ramp-like incline R of the inlet segment 4. For this purpose, the angled hook 34 for vertically suspending the bag 13 is designed such that it brings the inlet and gas-release segment 4 into an inclined, upward-sloping position relative to the flat-lying bag 13. The resulting gradient ensures that, during a certain period of the bag 13 lying flat, liquid contents of the bag do not reach the gas-release opening L in the inlet segment 4 of the collection bag 13 as far as possible.The angled hook 34 is preferably double-sided, facing both flat sides of a bag 13, for example, one welded from two layers, so that the desired incline is always present when the bag 13 is laid flat. In the preferred design, the hook 34, or double hook, is mounted at a fixed 90-degree angle to the bag surfaces. The 90-degree position required for the incline can also be achieved by an axially rotatable retaining bracket that can be pivoted into a 90-degree position and locked into place there.

[0081] ***

[0082] Reference symbol list

[0083] 1 Device 12 Drainage pipe

[0084] 2 ends of 13 bags, collection container

[0085] 2a Connector 13a Foil layer

[0086] 3 Inlet 13a Foil layer

[0087] 3a Connector 13a Foil layer

[0088] 4 basic elements, 14 modular floors

[0089] 4a Tongue 15 Module cover

[0090] 4b Transition area 16 Lamella 4c Transition 16a Wall

[0091] 5 Module 17 Opening

[0092] 5a Opening 19 Cap

[0093] 5b Filter cartridge 20 Cartridge 5c Seal 21 Component

[0094] 5d Opening 21a End

[0095] 5e Filter material 21b End

[0096] 6 opening 22 opening

[0097] 6a Space 23a Page 6b Opening 23b Page

[0098] 7 Separation layer 25 Process

[0099] 9 legs 26 compartment

[0100] 9a Locking mechanism 27 Storage component

[0101] 10 Insert 28 Peel-off film, capsule 10a Opening 29 Dispenser module 10b Insert 30 Opening

[0102] 11 Opening 31 Tissue 32 Reservoir.

[0103] 33 Opening

[0104] 34 hooks L opening

[0105] M Material

[0106] N Angle of inclination O Opening R Slope S Space

[0107] T separating layer

[0108] Z area

Claims

Patent claims 1. Device (1) for the preferably odor-neutral drainage of intestinal gas or other malodorous gases, as part of a system for the closed, preferably continuous drainage and / or collection of stool or other strongly odorous excretions or secretions from the human or animal body, wherein the stool or the drained excretions or secretions are conveyed extracorporeally through a tubular or pipe-shaped drainage line (12) downstream to a collection container (13), characterized by a tubular or pipe-shaped structure (4) inserted upstream of the collection compartment of the collection container (13), which, in addition to an inlet and an outlet connection and a connecting passage for the passage of stool or other excretions or secretions, has a branch (9) where intestinal gas or other,Foul-smelling gases are separated from the stool or other excretions or secretions and directed to an outlet via an adsorption and / or absorption and / or filtering device (5).

2. Device (1) according to claim 1, characterized in that the branch (9) and / or the structure (4) having a branch (9) is arranged upstream of a backflow-inhibiting element at the inlet of the collecting compartment of the collecting container (13).

3. Device (1) according to claim 2, characterized in that the backflow-inhibiting element has foil-based, tip- or sail-like components (13ax,13ay) preferably the distance between the foil-based, lip- or sail-like components (13ax,13ay) is reduced in the main flow direction, i.e. in the direction from the drainage line (12) to the collection compartment of the collection container (13).

4. Device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the adsorption and / or absorption and / or filter device (5) is at least partially spaced away from the passage area in order to avoid intensive contact with stool or other excretions or secretions flowing through the passage area as far as possible.

5. Device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the longitudinal direction of the flow channel between the branch (9) and the adsorption and / or absorption and / or filter device forms an angle of 90° or less than 90° with the longitudinal direction of the passage area between the branch (9) and the outlet connection, for example an angle of 75° or less, preferably an angle of 60° or less, in particular an angle of 45° or less, or even an angle of 30° or less.

6. Device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the maximum flow cross-section in the area between the branch (9) and the adsorption and / or absorption and / or filter device (5) is equal to or smaller than the minimum flow cross-section in the passage area.

7. Device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the flow cross-section in the area between the branch (9) and the adsorption and / or absorption and / or filter device (5) is narrowed by an obstruction compared to the minimum flow cross-section in the passage area.

8. Device (1) according to claim 7, characterized in that the obstruction is designed as a tongue (4a) which is arranged within the passage area approximately at the level of the branch (9).

9. Device (1) according to claim 7 or 8, characterized in that the obstruction is designed as a tongue (4a) which is hinged upstream of the branch (9) and covers the branch (9) to the adsorption and / or absorption and / or filter device (5) at least partially in relation to the passage area in the case of passage of stool or other excretions or secretions.

10. Device (1) according to claim 8 or 9, characterized in that the tongue (4a) is flexible and / or elastic, and / or preferably made of plastic.

11. Device (1) according to one of claims 8 to 10, characterized in that the tongue (4a) is integrated with the tube- or tubular structure or is connected by gluing or another joining technique.

12. Device (1) according to any one of claims 8 to 11, characterized in that the tongue (4a) is fixed to the hose- or tube-shaped or T-shaped structure (4) by a rigid connection.

13. Device (1) according to any one of claims 8 to 12, characterized in that the tongue (4a) has one or more holes (6) for the passage of gases.

14. Device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the inlet opening of the adsorption and / or absorption and / or filter device (5) facing the passage area or the branch (9) is covered by a gas-permeable, but preferably water-repellent, separating layer (7).

15. Device (1) according to claim 14, characterized in that the The separating layer (7) has a surface that is not very wettable (lotus effect), especially on its side facing the through-flow area or the branch (9).

16. Device (1) according to claim 14 or 15, characterized in that the separation layer (7) is designed as a microporous membrane, for example made of expanded polytetrafluoroethylene, preferably with a maximum pore diameter of less than 1 mm, preferably with a maximum pore diameter of 100 mm or less, in particular with a maximum pore diameter of 10 mm or less.

17. Device (1) according to one of claims 14 to 16, characterized in that the separating layer (7) is formed from a paper, in particular from a nonwoven paper.

18. Device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the adsorption and / or absorption and / or filter device (5) comprises one or more surface-active adsorbing substances that adsorb the odorants onto the surface, and / or one or more absorbing substances that absorb the odor-active substances in the manner of a physical solution.

19. Device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the adsorption and / or absorption and / or filtering device (5) comprises an adsorbing or absorbing or filtering granulate, for example activated carbon, for example in an amount of 100 ml or less, preferably in an amount of 50 ml or less, in particular in an amount of 20 ml or less, or in an amount of 10 ml or less, or even in an amount of 5 ml or less.

20. Device (1) according to claim 19, characterized in that the adsorption and / or absorption and / or filter device (5) contains the granules, for example the activated carbon, in an amount of 2 ml or more, preferably in an amount of 5 ml or more, in particular in an amount of 10 ml or more, or in an amount of 20 ml or more, or even in an amount of 30 ml or more.

21. Device (1) according to claim 19 or 20, characterized in that the adsorption and / or absorption and / or filter device (5) has one or more lamellar structures (16) inside it to guide the gas to be purified through the adsorption and / or absorption and / or filter device (5).

22. Device (1) according to claim 21, characterized in that several lamellar structures (16) are offset from one another and / or interlock in the manner of interlocked fingers.

23. Device (1) according to one of claims 19 to 22, characterized in that the adsorption and / or absorption and / or filter device (5) has at least one snail-, spiral and / or helical structure (16a) inside it to guide the gas to be purified through the adsorption and / or absorption and / or filter device (5).

24. Device (1) according to one of claims 19 to 23, characterized in that the adsorption and / or absorption and / or filter device (5) has an infectious agent filtering material, in particular in the area of ​​its downstream or outlet-side opening (5a, 5d).

25. Device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the adsorption and / or absorption and / or filter device (5) is arranged in a replaceable cartridge (5b, 20) or in a removable cap (19).

26. Device (1) according to claim 25, characterized in that the replaceable cartridge (5b, 20) or the removable cap (19) is provided with one or more outlet openings in the area of ​​its free end face or circumference.

27. Device (1) according to claim 25 or 26, characterized in that the replaceable cartridge (5b, 20) or the removable cap (19) can be connected to the hose- or tube- or T-shaped structure (4) at its branch (9) via a bayonet fitting or a screw fitting.

28. Device (1) according to claim 27, characterized in that the replaceable cartridge (5b, 20) or the removable cap (19) can optionally be connected via its closure to the inlet connection (2a) of the hose- or pipe-shaped or T-shaped structure (4).

29. Device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the hose- or tube-shaped or T-shaped structure (4) and / or the replaceable cartridge (5b.20) and / or the removable cap (19) has at least one compartment (26) for receiving a fragrance.

30. Device (1) according to claim 29, characterized in that the compartment (26) for receiving a fragrance is open to the outside and / or is closed with a removable cover, for example in the form of a peel-off film (28).

31. Device (1) according to claim 29 or 30, characterized in that the compartment (26) for receiving a fragrance substance is ring-shaped and surrounds a central outlet opening (30) of the adsorption and / or absorption and / or filter device (5).

32. Device (1) according to claim 31, characterized in that a wick or a non-woven and / or open-mesh and / or large-pored fabric (31) is arranged within the central opening (30) of the annular compartment (26) for receiving a fragrance substance, e.g. a wick stretched across the central opening (30) or a non-woven and / or open-mesh and / or large-pored fabric (31), which is to its moistening with fragrance extends into the compartment (26) containing the fragrance.

33. Device (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the hose- or tube- or T-shaped structure (4) has a bayonet fitting or a screw fitting at its inlet connection (2a) and / or at its outlet connection (3a) for connecting a hose (12) or collection vessel or bag (13) or the like.

34. Device (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the hose- or tube- or T-shaped structure (4) is integrated with a collection vessel or bag (13), in particular in the area of ​​its inlet connection (3).

35. Device (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the hose- or tube- or T-shaped structure (4) has a hose or tube extension (21) communicating with the adsorption and / or absorption and / or filtering device (5) from its outlet side via the branch (9).

36. Device (1) according to claim 35, characterized in that the hose or tube extension (21) communicating with the adsorption and / or absorption and / or filter device (5) extends into a collection vessel or collection bag (13), in particular beyond a backflow-inhibiting film (13a, 13ax, 13ay) or other backflow-inhibiting structure located there.

37. Device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the tube- or pipe-shaped or T-shaped structure (4) is integrated or connectable with a head unit anchored or anchorable in the rectum of a patient, which can be anchored in the rectum via a balloon element placed or placeable in the rectum.

38. Device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the tubular or pipe-shaped structure and / or a collection vessel integrated or connectable thereto and / or a collection bag (13) integrated or connectable thereto and / or a hose or head unit integrated or connectable thereto consists of a PVC-based material or of a PVC-containing material or coated or co-extruded with one or more layers of PVC.

39. Device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the hose- or tube- or T-shaped structure (4) has a T-shaped form.

40. Device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that it is structurally arranged serially or parallel to the chair-discharging system.

41. Device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the drained stool or the drained excretions or secretions are guided through the tube- or pipe-shaped or T-shaped structure (4) of the device in such a way that, when the device (1) is in an approximately vertical normal position, contamination or blockage of the gas-releasing components of the device is largely avoided, whereby in particular accumulations of, for example, intestinal gas within the system can be avoided.

42. Device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that a hook (34) for vertically hanging attachment of the bag (13) is provided on the hose- or tube- or T-shaped structure (4).

43. Device (1) according to claim 42, characterized in that the hook (34) is designed to project so far that, in the case of a flat-lying collection bag (13), the device connected to the collection bag (13) a hose- or tube- or T-shaped structure (4) inclined upwards in the upstream direction.

44. Device (1) according to claim 42 or 43, characterized in that the hook (34) is designed as a double-sided hook projecting in diametrical directions or as a retaining angle rotatable about the longitudinal axis of the hose- or tube- or T-shaped structure (4) and optionally lockable in predetermined positions. ***