Force modulating tissue bridge, associated tool, kit and method

Abstract

To provide a force modulating tissue bridge that seeks to close a wound accurately, and further seeks to provide simultaneous reduction of tension on a closed wound and scar in healing phases.SOLUTION: The invention is generally related to a medical article for covering a wound and / or a scar, and to be more concrete, is related with reduction in wound closure and / or wound tension. A force modulating tissue bridge. an associated applicator, a kit, and a method are provided. The force modulating tissue bridge can be a medical article for at least partially covering a wound and / or scar tissue. The medical article can include an elastic arch extending over an area, and a medial strut connected to the arch and extending into the area over which the central section extends.SELECTED DRAWING: None

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] (CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS) This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 62 / 411,023, filed October 21, 2016, the entirety of which is incorporated herein by reference.

[0002] The present invention relates generally to medical articles for covering wounds and / or scars, and more particularly to wound closure and / or reduction of wound tension. [Background technology]

[0003] Traditional methods of wound closure typically do not adequately control wound tension, which is known to be a primary stimulus for excessive scar formation. In addition, tension reduction is known to reduce scar size, discoloration, and poor appearance when applied during the wound healing cycle.

[0004] Thus, a need exists for a force modulating tissue bridge that would allow wounds to be precisely closed and would also provide a simultaneous reduction in tension on the closed wound and scar during the healing phase. Summary of the Invention [Means for solving the problem]

[0005] An aspect of the present disclosure is the provision of a medical article for at least partially covering wounds and / or scar tissue. The medical article can include a body including a central section extending across an area and flanges extending outwardly from opposing lower sections of the central section, respectively. At least the central section of the body can be resiliently configured to be deformed from a rest configuration to an extended configuration such that at least the central section can return toward the rest configuration in response to being released from the extended configuration. The lower sections are typically farther apart from each other in the extended configuration than in the rest configuration. A first one of the flanges can have opposing upper and lower surfaces that are each greater than a thickness defined between the upper and lower surfaces of the first flange. The medical article can further include a foot pad connected to the first flange for at least partially moving with the first flange. The foot pad can extend inwardly into the area across which the central section extends. The foot pad can have opposing upper and lower surfaces that are each greater than a thickness defined between the upper and lower surfaces of the foot pad. The upper surface of the foot pad and the lower surface of the first flange may face toward one another.

[0006] The central section can include an arch that extends across an area over which the central section extends. The foot pad can be a first foot pad. A second one of the flanges can have opposing upper and lower surfaces that are each greater than a thickness defined between the upper and lower surfaces of the second flange. The medical article can further include a second foot pad connected to the second flange for at least partial movement with the second flange. The second foot pad can extend inwardly into the area over which the central section extends. The second foot pad can have opposing upper and lower surfaces that are each greater than a thickness defined between the upper and lower surfaces of the second foot pad. The upper surface of the second foot pad and the lower surface of the second flange can face toward one another.

[0007] The body may be more rigid than at least one of the foot pads. At least one of the foot pads may include an extension (e.g., a post) extending inwardly into an area over which the central section extends. At least one of the foot pads may comprise an outer sheet configured to be attached to a patient's tissue and an inner sheet positioned between the outer sheet and the first flange, the inner sheet may be more rigid than the outer sheet. The outer sheet may be larger than the inner sheet. The extension of the outer sheet may extend outwardly beyond an outer edge of the inner sheet.

[0008] According to another aspect of the disclosure, the medical article comprises an arch extending across an area and an intermediate strut connected to the arch and extending into the area across which the arch extends. Optionally, the intermediate strut can comprise an outer layer configured to be attached to a patient's tissue and an inner layer positioned between the outer layer and the arch. Optionally, the inner layer can be stiffer than the outer layer, or vice versa. The intermediate strut can be a first intermediate strut. The second intermediate strut can be connected to the arch and extending into the area across which the arch extends. The first and second intermediate struts can be positioned opposite each other.

[0009] The medical article can optionally further comprise or otherwise be associated with at least one release liner adhered to the foot pad and / or the intermediate post. The medical article can optionally include one or more features (e.g., holes, receptacles, spaces between the body and at least a portion of the foot pad, and / or capture portions) configured to interact with an applicator tool.

[0010] Another aspect of the present disclosure is the provision of a tool configured for use in manipulating a medical article. The tool can include first and second portions spaced apart from one another and each configured to releasably engage a medical article, a reconfigurable linkage connecting the first and second portions to one another, and a lever (e.g., a handle) extending from proximate the linkage. The linkage and lever can be cooperatively configured such that at least a portion of the first and second portions are moved away from one another in response to at least a portion of the lever being moved towards one another.

[0011] The first and second portions may be first and second capturing portions configured to be releasably attached to the medical article. Each of the capturing portions may comprise a shank and one or more protrusions extending outwardly from the shank. The tool may optionally further include a bearing surface positioned between the first and second capturing portions, connected to the first and second capturing portions by a coupling portion, and optionally configured to engage the medical article while the first and second capturing portions are engaged to the medical article.

[0012] In another aspect of the disclosure, a tool configured for use in manipulating a medical article can include a reconfigurable coupling interconnecting first and second bodies. The first body can include a first lever connected to a first portion. The second body can include a second lever connected to a second portion. The first and second portions can be configured to engage (e.g., at least partially receive) opposite first and second ends of the medical article, respectively. The reconfigurable coupling can be configured such that the first and second bodies are pivotable relative to one another about first and second axes, respectively, and the first and second axes are movable toward and away from one another.

[0013] An aspect of the present disclosure is the provision of a package having a support with a central section and outer sections extending outwardly and downwardly, respectively. A medical article can be at least partially supported by the support. Foot pads of the medical article can be proximate the outer sections of the support, respectively. One or more gaps between the support and the medical article can be configured to receive a portion of a tool configured for use in manipulating the medical article.

[0014] The liner can be positioned between the support and the medical article. The medical article can be releasably mounted to the liner. At least a portion of the liner can be fixedly mounted to the support. The liner can include a line of disruption for at least partially facilitating relative movement between the medical article and the support. The line of disruption can at least partially define a flap in the liner. Each such flap can be associated with a foot pad of the medical article.

[0015] An aspect of the present disclosure is the provision of a method for at least transforming a medical article from a rest configuration to an extended configuration. The transforming can comprise reconfiguring the tool while the tool and medical article are engaged with each other. The tool and medical article engaged with each other can comprise a first portion of the tool and a first portion of the medical article engaged with each other, and a second portion of the tool and a second portion of the medical article engaged with each other. The reconfiguring of the tool can comprise moving a lever of the tool toward each other such that the first and second portions of the tool move away from each other in response to the movement of the lever of the tool toward each other, and the first and second portions of the medical article move away from each other in response to the movement of the first and second portions of the tool away from each other.

[0016] According to an aspect of the disclosure, the method includes transforming the medical article from a rest configuration to an extended configuration such that foot pads of the medical article are farther apart from one another in the extended configuration than in the rest configuration. The foot pads can each include an inner portion (e.g., a middle post) that extends inwardly from the outer portion of the foot pad such that the inner portion is positioned between the outer portions of the foot pad. The inner portion can be adhesively mounted to tissue of a patient while the medical device is in its extended configuration. The medical article can then be reconfigured from the extended configuration to an intermediate configuration that is between the rest configuration and the extended configuration. The outer portion of the pad can be adhesively mounted to tissue while the medical device is in its intermediate configuration. Optionally, adhesive mounting of the outer portion of the pad to tissue can occur at least partially in response to an automatic / biased reconfiguration of the medical article.

[0017] The above summary provides some brief examples, and is not exhaustive, and the invention is not limited to the above examples. These examples, as well as other examples, are further described below in the detailed description, with reference to the accompanying grounds. The present invention provides, for example, the following items. (Item 1) 1. A medical article for at least partially covering a wound and / or scar tissue, said medical article comprising: a body comprising a central section extending across an area and flanges each extending outwardly from an opposing lower section of the central section; at least a central section of the body is resiliently configured to be deformed from a rest configuration to an extended configuration and to return toward the rest configuration in response to being released from the extended configuration, the lower sections being farther apart from one another in the extended configuration than in the rest configuration; a body, a first one of the flanges having opposed upper and lower surfaces each greater than a thickness defined between the upper and lower surfaces of the first flange; a foot pad connected to the first flange for at least partial movement with the first flange, the foot pad extends inwardly into the area across which the central section extends; the footpad has opposed upper and lower surfaces each greater than a thickness defined between the upper and lower surfaces of the footpad; The upper surface of the foot pad and the lower surface of the first flange face toward each other. A medical article comprising: (Item 2) the central section comprises an arch extending across the area across which the central section extends; the foot pad is a first foot pad; a second one of the flanges has opposed upper and lower surfaces each greater than a thickness defined between the upper and lower surfaces of the second flange; the medical article comprising a second foot pad connected to the second flange for at least partial movement with the second flange; the second foot pad extends inwardly into the area across which the central section extends; the second footpad has opposed upper and lower surfaces each greater than a thickness defined between the upper and lower surfaces of the second footpad; Item 1. The medical article of item 1, wherein an upper surface of the second foot pad and a lower surface of the second flange face toward each other. (Item 3) 2. The medical article of claim 1, wherein the body is more rigid than the foot pad. (Item 4) the central section of the body extends at least partially around the periphery of the area across which the central section extends; Item 14. The medical article of item 1, wherein the foot pad includes an extension extending inwardly into the area across which the central section extends. (Item 5) Item 1. The medical article of item 1, wherein an upper surface of the foot pad is adhered to an underside of the first flange. (Item 6) The foot pad is an outer sheet configured to be attached to tissue; an inner sheet positioned between the outer sheet and the first flange, the inner sheet being stiffer than the outer sheet; 2. The medical article of item 1, comprising: (Item 7) 7. The medical article of claim 6, wherein the outer sheet is larger than the inner sheet and the extensions of the outer sheet extend outwardly beyond the outer edge of the inner sheet. (Item 8) 2. The medical article of claim 1, in combination with a tool configured for use in manipulating the medical article, a portion of the tool extending into a space between the body and at least a portion of the foot pad. (Item 9) Item 1, the medical article of item 1, wherein the body further comprises a capture portion configured for interaction with a tool. (Item 10) the capture portion includes an aperture extending through the body; 10. The medical article of claim 9, wherein at least a portion of the foot pad extends below the hole. (Item 11) The section of the foot pad comprises: inwardly from adjacent the first flange; and 10. The medical article of claim 9, wherein the capture portion extends below the capture portion. (Item 12) 10. The medical article of claim 9, wherein the capture portion comprises a receptacle configured to receive at least a portion of a tool. (Item 13) Item 13. The medical article of item 12, wherein the body and the foot pad are cooperatively configured together to at least partially define the receptacle. (Item 14) the body comprises an arch; the arch extends partially around the periphery of the area across which the central section extends; Item 13. The medical article of item 12, wherein the foot pad extends inwardly from the first flange into the area across which the central section extends and at least partially defines the receptacle. (Item 15) Item 15. The medical article of item 14, wherein the capture portion comprises a hole extending through the arch and configured to receive an end section of a tool therethrough such that the hole is an opening of the receptacle. (Item 16) 1. A medical article for at least partially covering a wound and / or scar tissue, said medical article comprising: an arch extending across the area; an intermediate strut connected to the arch and extending into the area across which the arch extends, the intermediate strut comprising: an outer layer configured to be attached to tissue; an inner layer positioned between the outer layer and the arch, the inner layer being stiffer than the outer layer; An intermediate support having A medical article comprising: (Item 17) 17. The medical article of claim 16, wherein the inner layer has a higher elastic modulus than the outer layer. (Item 18) 17. The medical article of claim 16, further comprising a release liner adhered to the intermediate post. (Item 19) Item 17. The medical article of item 16, further comprising a foot plate, the intermediate strut being connected to the arch at least via the foot plate. (Item 20) the intermediate strut is a first intermediate strut, the foot plate is a first foot plate; the arch includes first and second lower sections opposed from one another; the first intermediate strut is connected to the first lower section via at least the first foot plate; 20. The medical article of claim 19, further comprising a second intermediate strut connected to the second lower section via at least a second foot plate. (Item 21) 21. The medical article of claim 20, further comprising a medium configured to be positioned at least partially between the first and second intermediate struts. (Item 22) 22. The medical article of claim 21, wherein the medium comprises a therapeutic agent. (Item 23) 22. The medical article of claim 21, wherein the medium comprises a silicone strip. (Item 24) 22. The medical article of claim 21, wherein the medium is mounted to the arch. (Item 25) 1. A medical article for at least partially covering a wound and / or scar tissue, said medical article comprising: a body comprising a central section extending across an area and flanges each extending outwardly from an opposing lower section of the central section; at least a central section of the body is resiliently configured to be deformed from a rest configuration to an extended configuration and to return toward the rest configuration in response to being released from the extended configuration, the lower sections being farther apart from one another in the extended configuration than in the rest configuration; a body, a first one of the flanges having opposed upper and lower surfaces each greater than a thickness defined between the upper and lower surfaces of the first flange; a foot pad connected to the first flange for at least partial movement therewith, the foot pad extending inwardly toward the central section; A medical article comprising: (Item 26) the foot pad is a first foot pad; a second one of the flanges has opposed upper and lower surfaces each greater than a thickness defined between the upper and lower surfaces of the second flange; the medical article comprising a second foot pad connected to the second flange for at least partial movement with the second flange; 26. The medical article of claim 25, wherein the second foot pad extends inwardly toward the central section. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0018] [Figure 1A] 1A-1D depict various views of a medical article, optionally referred to as a force-modulating tissue bridge or simply a tissue bridge, according to a first embodiment of the present disclosure, which may be used to at least partially cover a wound and / or scar, for example, to help promote wound closure and / or reduce wound tension. [Figure 1B] 1A-1D depict various views of a medical article, optionally referred to as a force-modulating tissue bridge or simply a tissue bridge, according to a first embodiment of the present disclosure, which may be used to at least partially cover a wound and / or scar, for example, to help promote wound closure and / or reduce wound tension. [Figure 1C] 1A-1D depict various views of a medical article, optionally referred to as a force-modulating tissue bridge or simply a tissue bridge, according to a first embodiment of the present disclosure, which may be used to at least partially cover a wound and / or scar, for example, to help promote wound closure and / or reduce wound tension. [Figure 1D]1A-1D depict various views of a medical article, optionally referred to as a force-modulating tissue bridge or simply a tissue bridge, according to a first embodiment of the present disclosure, which may be used to at least partially cover a wound and / or scar, for example, to help promote wound closure and / or reduce wound tension. [Figure 1E] FIG. 1E is a pictorial exploded view of the tissue bridge of FIGS. 1A-1D according to a first embodiment, FIG. 1E further depicts the tissue bridge exploded from the diagrammatically depicted sections of the release liner and associated adhesive. [Figure 2A] 2A-2D depict various views of a tool configured for use to manipulate the medical article or tissue bridge of FIGS. 1A-1E according to a first embodiment, the tool may optionally be referred to as an applicator tool. [Figure 2B] 2A-2D depict various views of a tool configured for use to manipulate the medical article or tissue bridge of FIGS. 1A-1E according to a first embodiment, the tool may optionally be referred to as an applicator tool. [Figure 2C] 2A-2D depict various views of a tool configured for use to manipulate the medical article or tissue bridge of FIGS. 1A-1E according to a first embodiment, the tool may optionally be referred to as an applicator tool. [Figure 2D] 2A-2D depict various views of a tool configured for use to manipulate the medical article or tissue bridge of FIGS. 1A-1E according to a first embodiment, the tool may optionally be referred to as an applicator tool. [Figure 2E] FIG. 2E is a pictorial illustration of the applicator tool of FIGS. 2A-2D mounted to the tissue bridge of FIGS. 1A-1E in accordance with a first embodiment. [Figure 3A] FIG. 3A is a pictorial view of the top surface of at least a portion of a kit or package according to a first embodiment, comprising the applicator tool of FIGS. 2A-2D and some of the tissue bridges of FIGS. 1A-1E at least partially contained within a tray. [Figure 3B] FIG. 3B is a partial exploded view of some of the objects of the package of FIG. 3A according to a first embodiment. [Figure 3C] FIG. 3C is an isolated top view of the tray of FIG. 3A according to a first embodiment. [Figure 3D] FIG. 3D is a top view of the tray of FIG. 3A containing an applicator tool and a release liner according to the first embodiment. [Figure 3E] FIG. 3E is a top view of the package of FIG. 3A according to the first embodiment. [Figure 4A] 4A-4F depict a sequence of steps of a method of using an applicator tool to remove a tissue bridge from a tray according to a first embodiment. [Figure 4B] 4A-4F depict a sequence of steps of a method of using an applicator tool to remove a tissue bridge from a tray according to a first embodiment. [Figure 4C] 4A-4F depict a sequence of steps of a method of using an applicator tool to remove a tissue bridge from a tray according to a first embodiment. [Figure 4D] 4A-4F depict a sequence of steps of a method of using an applicator tool to remove a tissue bridge from a tray according to a first embodiment. [Figure 4E] 4A-4F depict a sequence of steps of a method of using an applicator tool to remove a tissue bridge from a tray according to a first embodiment. [Figure 4F] 4A-4F depict a sequence of steps of a method of using an applicator tool to remove a tissue bridge from a tray according to a first embodiment. [Figure 4G] 4G-4K depict a sequence of steps of a method of using an applicator tool to apply a tissue bridge to a wound according to a first embodiment. [Figure 4H]4G-4K depict a sequence of steps of a method of using an applicator tool to apply a tissue bridge to a wound according to a first embodiment. [Figure 4I] 4G-4K depict a sequence of steps of a method of using an applicator tool to apply a tissue bridge to a wound according to a first embodiment. [Figure 4J] 4G-4K depict a sequence of steps of a method of using an applicator tool to apply a tissue bridge to a wound according to a first embodiment. [Figure 4K] 4G-4K depict a sequence of steps of a method of using an applicator tool to apply a tissue bridge to a wound according to a first embodiment. [Figure 5A] 5A-5D depict various views of a medical article or tissue bridge having a central release liner and a release liner mounting strap affixed thereto, according to a second embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 5B] 5A-5D depict various views of a medical article or tissue bridge having a central release liner and a release liner mounting strap affixed thereto, according to a second embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 5C] 5A-5D depict various views of a medical article or tissue bridge having a central release liner and a release liner mounting strap affixed thereto, according to a second embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 5D] 5A-5D depict various views of a medical article or tissue bridge having a central release liner and a release liner mounting strap affixed thereto, according to a second embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 6A] 6A-6F depict sequential steps of a method of applying the tissue bridge of FIGS. 5A-5D to a wound according to a second embodiment. [Figure 6B] 6A-6F depict sequential steps of a method of applying the tissue bridge of FIGS. 5A-5D to a wound according to a second embodiment. [Figure 6C]6A-6F depict sequential steps of a method of applying the tissue bridge of FIGS. 5A-5D to a wound according to a second embodiment. [Figure 6D] 6A-6F depict sequential steps of a method of applying the tissue bridge of FIGS. 5A-5D to a wound according to a second embodiment. [Figure 6E] 6A-6F depict sequential steps of a method of applying the tissue bridge of FIGS. 5A-5D to a wound according to a second embodiment. [Figure 6F] 6A-6F depict sequential steps of a method of applying the tissue bridge of FIGS. 5A-5D to a wound according to a second embodiment. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 depicts steps of a method of applying a tissue bridge to a wound according to a third embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 8A] FIG. 8A is an isolated pictorial view of an applicator tool according to a fourth embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 8B] FIG. 8B is a pictorial illustration of the applicator tool of FIG. 8A mounted to a tissue bridge, according to a fourth embodiment. [Figure 8C] FIG. 8C depicts steps of a method of applying a tissue bridge to a wound according to the fourth embodiment. [Figure 9A] FIG. 9A is an isolated pictorial view of an applicator tool according to a fifth embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 9B] FIG. 9B is a pictorial illustration of the applicator tool of FIG. 9A mounted to a tissue bridge, according to a fifth embodiment. [Figure 9C] 9C and 9D depict steps of a method of applying a tissue bridge to a wound according to a fifth embodiment. [Figure 9D] 9C and 9D depict steps of a method of applying a tissue bridge to a wound according to a fifth embodiment. [Figure 10A] FIG. 10A is a pictorial illustration of a tissue bridge according to a sixth embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 10B]10B and 10C depict an applicator tool mounted to the tissue bridge of FIG. 10A according to a sixth embodiment. [Figure 10C] 10B and 10C depict an applicator tool mounted to the tissue bridge of FIG. 10A according to a sixth embodiment. [Figure 10D] 10D and 10E depict steps of a method of applying a tissue bridge to a wound according to the sixth embodiment. [Figure 10E] 10D and 10E depict steps of a method of applying a tissue bridge to a wound according to the sixth embodiment. [Figure 11A] FIG. 11A is a pictorial diagram of a tissue bridge according to a seventh embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 11B] 11B and 11C depict an applicator tool mounted to the tissue bridge of FIG. 11A according to a seventh embodiment. [Figure 11C] 11B and 11C depict an applicator tool mounted to the tissue bridge of FIG. 11A according to a seventh embodiment. [Figure 11D] 11D and 11E depict steps of a method of applying a tissue bridge to a wound according to the seventh embodiment. [Figure 11E] 11D and 11E depict steps of a method of applying a tissue bridge to a wound according to the seventh embodiment. [Figure 12A] 12A and 12B depict an applicator tool mounted to a tissue bridge according to an eighth embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 12B] 12A and 12B depict an applicator tool mounted to a tissue bridge according to an eighth embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 12C] 12C and 12D depict steps of a method of applying a tissue bridge to a wound according to an eighth embodiment. [Figure 12D] 12C and 12D depict steps of a method of applying a tissue bridge to a wound according to an eighth embodiment. [Figure 13A]13A and 13B depict a tissue bridge according to a ninth embodiment. [Figure 13B] 13A and 13B depict a tissue bridge according to a ninth embodiment. [Figure 13C] FIG. 13C is an exploded view of a tissue bridge according to the ninth embodiment. [Figure 13D] FIG. 13D is a cross-sectional view of at least a portion of a kit or package including a tissue bridge at least partially contained within a tray, according to a ninth embodiment. [Figure 13E] 13E and 13F depict a sequence of steps of a method of using an applicator tool to remove a tissue bridge from a tray, according to a ninth embodiment. [Figure 13F] 13E and 13F depict a sequence of steps of a method of using an applicator tool to remove a tissue bridge from a tray, according to a ninth embodiment. [Figure 14] FIG. 14 is a pictorial view of the bottom of an applicator tool according to the tenth embodiment. [Figure 15] FIG. 15 is a top view of a tray at least partially containing an applicator tool and a series of tissue bridges according to a tenth embodiment. [Figure 16A] FIG. 16A is a schematic top view of an elongation scar or wound in tissue. [Figure 16B] FIG. 16B is similar to FIG. 16A, except that the scar or wound is covered by a strip. [Figure 16C] FIG. 16C is similar to FIG. 16B, except that a tissue bridge is mounted across the strip, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 16D] FIG. 16D is a side elevational view of a first version of the assembly of 16C. [Figure 16E] FIG. 16E is a side elevational view of a second version of the assembly of FIG. 16D, according to another embodiment of the present disclosure, also depicting a tissue bridge. [Figure 16F]FIG. 16F is similar to FIG. 16E, according to another embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 16G] FIG. 16G is a side elevational view of a tissue bridge according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 17A] 17A-17C depict a tissue bridge according to an eleventh embodiment. [Figure 17B] 17A-17C depict a tissue bridge according to an eleventh embodiment. [Figure 17C] 17A-17C depict a tissue bridge according to an eleventh embodiment. [Figure 17D] FIG. 17D is a cross-sectional view taken along line 17D-17D of FIG. 17B. [Figure 17E] FIG. 17E is an end elevational view of the tissue bridge of the eleventh embodiment. [Figure 17F] FIG. 17F is a pictorial exploded view of the top surface of the tissue bridge of the eleventh embodiment, and FIG. 17F further depicts the tissue bridge exploded from the diagrammatically depicted sections of the release liner and associated adhesive according to the eleventh embodiment. [Figure 17G] FIG. 17G is a pictorial exploded view of the bottom surface of selected layers of the tissue bridge of the eleventh embodiment. [Figure 18A] 18A-18C depict various views of an applicator tool according to an eleventh embodiment. [Figure 18B] 18A-18C depict various views of an applicator tool according to an eleventh embodiment. [Figure 18C] 18A-18C depict various views of an applicator tool according to an eleventh embodiment. [Figure 18D] FIG. 18D depicts an applicator tool mated to a tissue bridge of a package including a tray and a series of tissue bridges according to an eleventh embodiment. [Figure 19A] 19A-19F depict a sequence of steps of a method of using an applicator tool to remove a tissue bridge from a tray, according to an eleventh embodiment. [Figure 19B] 19A-19F depict a sequence of steps of a method of using an applicator tool to remove a tissue bridge from a tray, according to an eleventh embodiment. [Figure 19C] 19A-19F depict a sequence of steps of a method of using an applicator tool to remove a tissue bridge from a tray, according to an eleventh embodiment. [Figure 19D] 19A-19F depict a sequence of steps of a method of using an applicator tool to remove a tissue bridge from a tray, according to an eleventh embodiment. [Figure 19E] 19A-19F depict a sequence of steps of a method of using an applicator tool to remove a tissue bridge from a tray, according to an eleventh embodiment. [Figure 19F] 19A-19F depict a sequence of steps of a method of using an applicator tool to remove a tissue bridge from a tray, according to an eleventh embodiment. [Figure 19G] 19G and 19H depict different restraints of a release liner associated with a tissue bridge and tray according to the eleventh embodiment. [Figure 19H] 19G and 19H depict different restraints of a release liner associated with a tissue bridge and tray according to the eleventh embodiment. [Figure 19I] 19I-19L depict a sequence of steps of a method of using an applicator tool to apply a tissue bridge to a wound according to an eleventh embodiment. [Figure 19J] 19I-19L depict a sequence of steps of a method of using an applicator tool to apply a tissue bridge to a wound according to an eleventh embodiment. [Figure 19K] 19I-19L depict a sequence of steps of a method of using an applicator tool to apply a tissue bridge to a wound according to an eleventh embodiment. [Figure 19L]19I-19L depict a sequence of steps of a method of using an applicator tool to apply a tissue bridge to a wound according to an eleventh embodiment. [Figure 20A] FIG. 20A is a top view of a tissue bridge of a variation of the eleventh embodiment. [Figure 20B] FIG. 20B is an isolated top view of the foot pad of the tissue bridge of the eleventh embodiment variation. [Figure 20C] FIG. 20C is an end elevational view of a tissue bridge of a variation of the eleventh embodiment. [Figure 20D] FIG. 20D is a pictorial exploded view of a top surface of a tissue bridge of a variation of the eleventh embodiment, and FIG. 20D further depicts the tissue bridge exploded from a section of a release liner according to a variation of the eleventh embodiment. [Figure 21] FIG. 21 depicts a variation of the applicator tool of the eleventh embodiment. [Figure 22] FIG. 22 depicts another variation of the applicator tool of the eleventh embodiment. [Figure 23A] 23A-23C depict an applicator tool according to a twelfth embodiment. [Figure 23B] 23A-23C depict an applicator tool according to a twelfth embodiment. [Figure 23C] 23A-23C depict an applicator tool according to a twelfth embodiment. [Figure 24A] 24A-24C depict an applicator tool according to a thirteenth embodiment. [Figure 24B] 24A-24C depict an applicator tool according to a thirteenth embodiment. [Figure 24C] 24A-24C depict an applicator tool according to a thirteenth embodiment. [Figure 25A] 25A-25C depict an applicator tool in combination with a tissue bridge according to a fourteenth embodiment. [Figure 25B]25A-25C depict an applicator tool in combination with a tissue bridge according to a fourteenth embodiment. [Figure 25C] 25A-25C depict an applicator tool in combination with a tissue bridge according to a fourteenth embodiment. [Figure 26A] 26A-26C depict an applicator tool in combination with a tissue bridge according to a variation of the fourteenth embodiment. [Figure 26B] 26A-26C depict an applicator tool in combination with a tissue bridge according to a variation of the fourteenth embodiment. [Figure 26C] 26A-26C depict an applicator tool in combination with a tissue bridge according to a variation of the fourteenth embodiment. [Figure 27A] 27A and 27B depict an applicator tool in combination with a tissue bridge according to a variation of the fourteenth embodiment. [Figure 27B] 27A and 27B depict an applicator tool in combination with a tissue bridge according to a variation of the fourteenth embodiment. [Figure 28A] 28A and 28B depict an applicator tool in combination with a tissue bridge according to a variation of the fourteenth embodiment. [Figure 28B] 28A and 28B depict an applicator tool in combination with a tissue bridge according to a variation of the fourteenth embodiment. [Figure 28C] (Not stated) [Figure 28D] 28D-28E depict a series of steps in a method of using an applicator tool to apply a tissue bridge to a wound according to a variation of the fourteenth embodiment. [Figure 28E] 28D-28E depict a series of steps in a method of using an applicator tool to apply a tissue bridge to a wound according to a variation of the fourteenth embodiment. [Figure 29] 29A-29C are top views of a tray including mounting features according to another embodiment of the present disclosure. [Diagram 30] FIG. 30 depicts a tray carrying a series of tissue bridges and including fastening straps according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Diagram 31] FIG. 31 depicts a tray with the tissue bridge of FIG. 30 mounted on a user's arm, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Diagram 32] FIG. 32 depicts the tray with the tissue bridge of FIG. 30 with the fastening straps removed and the tray disassembled from the mounting base according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Diagram 33] FIG. 33 depicts a tray carrying a series of tissue bridges and including fastening straps according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Diagram 34] FIG. 34 depicts a tray with tissue bridge disassembled from a mounting base with clips and fastening straps according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Diagram 35] FIG. 35 depicts a tray with tissue bridge disassembled from a mounting base with adhesive and fastening straps according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0019] A number of embodiments are described below and illustrated in the accompanying drawings, in which like numerals refer to like parts throughout the several views. Some embodiments may be referenced by numerals for convenience of description and ease of understanding, but not for purposes of limiting the scope of the present disclosure or associated inventions. The described embodiments provide examples and should not be construed as limiting the scope of the invention. Other embodiments, and modifications and improvements of the described embodiments will occur to those skilled in the art, and all such other embodiments, modifications, and improvements are within the scope of the invention.

[0020] 1A-1D depict an at least partially elastic (e.g., generally elastic) medical article 20 when in its undeformed or resting configuration (e.g., relaxed state) according to a first embodiment. The medical article 20 may optionally be referred to as a force modulating tissue bridge 20 or simply a tissue bridge 20, and throughout this disclosure the tissue bridge may be more generally referred to as a medical article. Below, first an example of a method of using the tissue bridge 20 is very briefly described, after which the tissue bridge and other aspects of the disclosure are described in more detail.

[0021] The tissue bridge 20 can be mounted to tissue, such as, but not limited to, the surface of the patient's skin, e.g., the outer surface of the patient's epidermis. The tissue bridge 20 is typically mounted to extend across and at least partially cover a wound and / or scar. In a first embodiment, the tissue bridge 20 is comprised of a generally elastic material, and prior to the tissue bridge being mounted to the patient, the tissue bridge can be generally elastically deformed from its undeformed or resting configuration to a distorted, deformed, or extended configuration. The tissue bridge 20 can begin to be mounted to tissue (e.g., skin tissue) such that at least a central section of the tissue bridge extends across the wound and / or scar while the tissue bridge is maintained in its extended configuration. After being at least partially loaded in its extended configuration, the tissue bridge 20 can be allowed to generally elastically reconfigure from its extended configuration, at least partially toward its resting configuration, which may, for example, reduce tension in the tissue, help close the wound, help prevent wound reopening, and / or prevent disfiguring scars (e.g., enlargement), as will be discussed in further detail below. In a first embodiment, the tissue bridge 20 is made of a material that is at least generally elastic such that the tissue bridge is biased toward its resting configuration (e.g., relaxed state).

[0022] The tissue bridge 20 of the first embodiment comprises a generally resilient body 22 and one or more multi-layered foot pads 24 mounted to the body, although in some examples one or more of the foot pads and / or portions thereof may be omitted (e.g., the foot pads may consist or consist essentially of a single layer). The body 22 may generally be referred to as and / or generally function as a skeleton or other suitable structure configured to movably connect two or more of the foot pads 24 to one another. In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 1A-1E, the body 22 includes at least two flanges 26 (e.g., feet) that extend obliquely, e.g., outwardly and downwardly, respectively, from opposing lower portions of a central section or arch 28 of the body. Each of the flanges 26 may be planar, or they may be substantially or nearly planar, as it may not be important that the flanges be precisely planar. The flanges 26 may extend divergently and obliquely relative to one another. The arch 28 may include a central spanning section 30 and lower sections 32 each extending downwardly from an opposing portion of the spanning section. The lower sections 32 of the arch 28 may optionally be configured as and / or referred to as shoulders 32. The flanges 26 may each extend diagonally, e.g., outwardly and downwardly, from a lower portion of the shoulders 32. The shoulders 32 may provide a smooth curvilinear transition between the spanning section 30 of the arch 28 and the flanges 26. In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 1A-1E, the spanning section 30 of the arch 28 is relatively thin and at least generally arcuate, which may be advantageous for active individuals having the tissue bridge 20 mounted on the skin. Alternatively, in some circumstances, it is contemplated that the arch 28 may be at least a rather flat arch, or the spanning section 30 of the arch may be flat, or the arch or features thereof may be of any other suitable configuration that would enable the tissue bridge 20 to function generally or substantially as described herein.

[0023] Each of the components of the tissue bridge 20 will typically be constructed of a suitable medical grade material. For example, the body 22 may be a unitary (e.g., single-piece) article that is injection molded or mechanically thermoformed such that the spanning section 30, shoulder 32, and flange 26 may be formed together as a single article from an injection moldable or formable generally resilient material, such as, but not limited to, polycarbonate, or any other suitable injection moldable or formable material. With reference to FIG. 1C, the spanning section 30, shoulder 32, and flange 26 may each be of approximately the same thickness, or alternatively, the thickness of the body 22 may vary along its length. With reference to FIG. 1B, the width of the body 22 may be tapered, for example, along its length such that the spanning section 30 is relatively narrow (e.g., has a narrowed waist) compared to the shoulder 32 and flange 26 such that the spanning section may be more easily deformed compared to the shoulder and flange. For example, the side edges of the spanning section 30 may be inwardly curved or concave, as shown in Figures 1A, 1B, and 1D, or they may have a stepped or other suitable configuration. Alternatively, the side edges of the spanning section 30 can extend generally or substantially in a straight line, in a top view of the tissue bridge 20, or they can extend in any other suitable manner.

[0024] 1A-1D, the foot pads 24 can be spaced apart from one another, and the foot pads can be fixedly mounted to the flanges 26. Each foot pad 24 can be or include a mat, laminate, or other suitable structure comprising one or more layers of material. For example, in a first embodiment, each foot pad 24 includes an outer layer or sheet 34 configured to be attached to tissue (e.g., skin tissue) and an inner layer or sheet 36 positioned between and fixedly connected to the outer sheet 34 and the respective flange 26.

[0025] 1E, the tissue bridge 20 can include inner, intermediate, and outer adhesive layers 38, 40, 42. As will be discussed in more detail below, the inner adhesive layer 38 can be between and securely connect the inner sheet 36 and the flange 26, the intermediate adhesive layer 40 can be between and securely connect the outer sheet 34 and the inner sheet, and the outer adhesive layer 42 can be on the outside of the outer sheet for attaching the tissue bridge 20 to tissue (e.g., the patient's skin).

[0026] The outer and inner sheets 34, 36 can be provided by die cutting them from suitable webs or larger sheets of material, such as, for example, a woven or cast microporous polymer sheet for the outer sheet 34, and an extruded polymer or plastic sheet for the inner sheet 36. The outer sheet 34 can be made from a suitable woven material, cast material, film, or other material of the type from which the skin contact layer of a dressing or other wound dressing is formed, or any other suitable material. The plastic inner sheet 36 can be made from a suitable material, such as, for example, polyethylene, polyethylene terephthalate, or any other suitable material. The inner and middle adhesive layers 38, 40 can each comprise an adhesive compatible with the materials thereby connected. The outer adhesive layer 42 (e.g., patient contact adhesive) can be, for example, an adhesive of the type typically used as an adhesive backing for dressings or other wound dressings. In a first embodiment, the outer adhesive layer 42 can have a lower adhesive strength than the inner and intermediate adhesive layers 38, 40, such as when the tissue bridge 20 is to be removably mounted to tissue (e.g., the patient's skin).

[0027] In a first embodiment, both the body 22 and the inner sheet 36 have a higher modulus of elasticity (e.g., are formed from a stiffer material) than the outer sheet 34. More generally, the body 22 and the inner sheet 36 may be stiffer than the outer sheet 34 due to a variety of factors, such as being larger, thicker, made from a material having a higher modulus of elasticity, and / or constructed to have an apparent modulus of elasticity. Similarly, the body 22 may have a higher modulus of elasticity than the foot pad 24.

[0028] 1C, the body 22, including its flanges 26, can be thicker than each of the outer and inner sheets 34, 36, and the arch 28 can extend over an area into which portions of the outer and inner sheets may optionally extend. The area over which the arch 28 extends can be referred to as a central area, a treatment area, a sub-arch area, and / or the like. The thicknesses of the body 22 and sheets 34, 36 can be independently varied as needed, for example, to create tissue bridges 20 of different sizes and to function optimally in different anatomical areas with different treatment tissue properties.

[0029] As shown in Figures 1A and 1E, at each end of the tissue bridge 20, the flanges 26, outer sheet 34, inner sheet 36, and adhesive layers 38, 40, 42 can be at least partially overlapped with one another and can have different configurations from one another. For example, as diagrammatically illustrated in Figure 1E by the boundary dashed lines on the outer and inner sheets 34, 36, the congruent portion 44 of each inner sheet can be overlapped and coextensive with the respective flange 26, and the congruent portion 46 of the outer sheet 34 can be overlapped and coextensive with the respective inner sheet congruent portion 44. As another example, also diagrammatically illustrated at least partially by the boundary dashed lines in Figure 1E, the inner extensions 48 of the outer and inner sheets 34, 36 can extend congruently with one another into the central area across which the arch 28 extends, such that the inner extensions 48 are not overlapped or coextensive with the flange 26. More generally, each foot pad 24 can include at least one extension 48 that extends into the central area across which the arch 28 extends such that the inner extension 48 cannot be overlapped or coextensive with the flange 26.

[0030] In the first embodiment, the medial extension 48 may be referred to as an intermediate extension 48, for example, because it extends toward the center of the area across which the arch 28 extends. As another example, as will be discussed in more detail below, the medial or intermediate extension 48 may be configured to at least partially resist longitudinal compression when the tissue bridge 20 in its extended configuration is loaded against tissue (e.g., skin tissue) and then allowed to generally reconfigure from its extended configuration, at least partially toward its resting configuration. Thus, the medial or intermediate extension 48 may be referred to as an intermediate strut 48. In the first embodiment, each intermediate strut 48 includes the medial extension 48 of both sheets 34, 36, although one or more layers or sheets of the intermediate strut 48 may be omitted, such that each intermediate strut may be formed from one or more layers of material.

[0031] 1A and 1E, one or more lateral extensions 50 of the foot pad 24, and more particularly, of the outer sheet 34, can extend outwardly such that they are not overlapped or coextensive with the flange 26 or the intermediate post 48. In the example shown in FIG. 1B, the lateral extensions 50 can extend outwardly beyond one or more of the peripheral edges (e.g., outer and side edges) of the flange 26.

[0032] In the embodiment shown in FIG. 1C, the intermediate strut 48 can be spaced (e.g., at least partially spaced) from the arch 28 and extend into a central area across which the arch extends such that a gap or receptacle 52 is at least partially defined between the intermediate strut and the arch. The receptacle 52 can at least partially define, or be at least a part of, a capturing portion configured to interact with a corresponding feature of an applicator tool, which is discussed in further detail below, that can be used, for example, in mounting the tissue bridge 20 to tissue (e.g., the patient's skin). For example, the tissue bridge 20 can include one or more capturing portions, each of which can include a receptacle 52. A variety of differently configured capturing portions are within the scope of the present disclosure.

[0033] In the first embodiment, the body 22 includes at least two capture portions further comprising holes 56 extending therethrough and opening to the receptacles 52. The holes 56 can be defined in the arch 28, more specifically, the holes can be positioned in opposite end portions of the spanning section 30. In the example shown in FIG. 1B, the holes 56 can be open to a central area across which the arch 28 extends, more specifically, the holes can be open to the receptacles 52. The intermediate struts 48 can extend below the holes.

[0034] 1A and 1B, each of the holes 56 may be triangular, with the sides of the triangle, more specifically, the edges 58 of the arch 28 that define the triangle, extending transversely to the length of the arch. The individual capture portions may further include edges 58. The edges 58 may extend parallel, or more generally, substantially parallel or approximately parallel, to the boundary between the spanning section 30 and the individual shoulder 32. In other words, the edges may extend perpendicular, or more generally, substantially perpendicular or approximately perpendicular to the longitudinal or longitudinal axis of the body 22. Additionally, the holes 56, when present, may reduce the area or volume of the outer portion of the spanning section 30 in a manner that enhances the deformability of the outer portion of the spanning section.

[0035] Each capture portion can further include a portion 60 (FIG. 1C) of the underside of arch 28, with surface portion 60 extending outwardly from edge 58. The capture portions, receptacles 52, holes 56, and associated edges 58, and surface portion 60, or the like, can be optional, and other locations and configurations of capture portions, receptacles, holes, or the like are within the scope of this disclosure.

[0036] In a version of the first embodiment, the foot pad 24 can be described as including a flange 26, such that the flange can be a separate layer of the foot pad and the flange can be referred to as a foot plate 26 or equivalent. As another example, the first embodiment encompasses a configuration of the tissue bridge 20 in which the foot plate 26 is not integrally formed with the arch 28. For example, the foot plate 26 can be formed separately from the arch 28 and can be fixedly or movably connected to the arch, such as via a pivot, hinge, or any other suitable feature. Other variations are also within the scope of this disclosure. For example, the foot plate 26 can have one or more holes formed therein or therethrough, as discussed in more detail below. As another example suggested above, one or more layers of each foot pad 24 can be omitted. For example, for each foot plate 26, it may be preferable in some circumstances to omit a layer between the foot plate and the outer adhesive layer 42, such that an outer adhesive layer for use in mounting the tissue bridge 20 to tissue (e.g., the patient's skin) is mounted directly to the underside of the foot plate. It is also within the scope of the first embodiment for the intermediate post 48 to be integrally formed with the arch 28, the flange 26, and / or the foot plate 26. For example, the intermediate post 48 can be an extension of the flange 26 and / or the foot plate 26.

[0037] As alluded to above, FIG. 1E depicts the tissue bridge 20 in a disassembled configuration. Additionally, FIG. 1E depicts the tissue bridge 20 disassembled from the diagrammatically depicted sections of the release liner 62 and associated adhesive 64. As an example, after the tissue bridge 20 is manufactured, or as part of the manufacturing process for the tissue bridge, the tissue bridge, more specifically, the outer sheet 34, can be releasably mounted onto the upper surface of the release liner 62 via the outer adhesive layer 42. Additionally, the lower surface of a portion of the release liner 62 can be fixedly mounted to a support via the adhesive 64, as will be discussed in more detail below. The release liner 62 can be, for example, a release-coated paper or plastic-based film sheet that is engaged against the outer adhesive layer 42 such that the tissue bridge 20 is releasably mounted onto the release liner.

[0038] According to a first embodiment, the tissue bridge 20 may be at least slightly translucent, and the tissue bridge may optionally include indicia, visible design elements, and / or other visual features with one or more of color, contrasting color, decoration, matching marks, pictures, logos, images, letters, words, or any other suitable features that may be printed matter or the like, which may be embedded or encapsulated in the tissue bridge and visible through one or more external surfaces of the tissue bridge. For example, one or more of the components or layers of the tissue bridge 20 may be at least generally transparent and / or at least generally translucent, and the printed matter or the like may be inside the external surface of the tissue bridge 20 and be visible by a user of the tissue bridge through at least one of the external surfaces of the tissue bridge. For example, the printed matter or the like may be on a layer or surface of the tissue bridge 20 that is inside the tissue bridge (e.g., the printed matter or the like may be positioned or "sandwiched" between various layers of the tissue bridge). 1E, as an example, the body 22 and inner sheets 36 may each be at least partially transparent, and the printed matter or the like may be on a top surface of at least one of the outer sheets 34 so as to be visible through the body 22 and the respective inner sheets 36. As another example, the body 22 may be at least partially transparent, and the printed matter or the like may be on a top surface of at least one of the inner sheets 36 so as to be visible through the body 22. Alternatively, the printed matter or the like may be contained in one or more of the adhesive layers 38, 40, 42, and / or in any other suitable location, with certain portions of the tissue bridge 20 being considered to be at least partially transparent and / or translucent to allow the printed matter or the like to be visible through one or more exterior surfaces of the tissue bridge.

[0039] 2A-2D depict an applicator mechanism in the form of an applicator tool 80 that may be used to manipulate, for example, a tissue bridge 20 or another suitable medical article, for example, as part of a method of mounting a tissue bridge to tissue (e.g., a patient's skin) according to a first embodiment. For example, the applicator tool 80 may include one or more parts or features that may be spaced apart from one another and configured to releasably engage the tissue bridge 20. In the first embodiment, the one or more parts or features of the applicator tool 80 that are configured to engage the tissue bridge 20 may comprise at least one bearing or contact surface 82 and / or one or more capturing portions 84. For example, the contact surface 82 may be positioned between the capturing portions 84. The applicator tool 80 may further include a reconfigurable frame that interconnects the contact surface 82 and the capturing portions 84. The applicator tool 80 and the like may more generally be referred to as a tool. For example, the tool 80 or the like may be used for purposes beyond applying the tissue bridge 20.

[0040] The frame can include a reconfigurable linkage (e.g., one or more links 86A, 86B) interconnecting the contact surface 82 and the capturing portion 84, and one or more levers 88A, 88B extending inwardly from the links 86A, 86B. The applicator tool 80 can be configured such that when the bearing or contact surface 82 faces downward, the capturing portion 84 extends downwardly from the linkage (e.g., links 86A, 86B) and the levers 88A, 88B extend upwardly from the linkage. The links 86A, 86B and levers 88A, 88B can be cooperatively configured such that in response to at least a portion of the capturing portions 84 moving away from one another and at least a portion of the levers 88A, 88B being moved toward one another, the contact surface 82 moves toward a line between the capturing portions 84, as will be discussed in more detail below.

[0041] The links 86A, 86B may comprise several links, e.g., a central link 86A and an outer link 86B. Similarly, the levers 88A, 88B may comprise several levers, e.g., an inner lever 88A and an outer lever 88B. In the embodiment shown in Figures 2A-2D, the contact surface 82 may be a lower end surface of the central link 86A, and the capture portion 84 may include a shank 90 extending from a lower end of the outer link 86B and / or the outer lever 88B. Each capture portion 84 may further include at least one projection 92 extending outwardly from a lower end of the shank 90 in a direction that is transverse to the length of the shank. The projections 92 may point outwardly from each other.

[0042] The outer links 86B can extend diagonally, outwardly, and downwardly, respectively, from opposite sides of the upper portion of the center link 86A to an upper portion of the shank 90. ​​The inner levers 88A can extend diagonally, outwardly, and downwardly, respectively, from opposite sides of the upper portion of the center link 86A. The outer levers 88B can extend diagonally, outwardly, and upwardly, respectively, from the upper portion of the shank 90.

[0043] The levers 88A, 88B can be configured as and / or comprise a handle 94. For example, in the embodiment depicted in Figures 2A and 2B, the handle 94 can include adjacent levers 88A, 88B that are connected to one another. These connections can comprise adjacent levers 88A, 88B that are directly connected to one another proximate their upper ends and a cross member 96 that is connected to the adjacent bars and spans between them.

[0044] Applicator tool 80 may be an injection molded unitary (e.g., single-piece) article formed from an injection moldable, generally resilient material, such as, but not limited to, polycarbonate, polyethylene, or any other suitable injection moldable material. Alternatively, applicator tool 80 may be made from metal, metal alloy, steel, or any other suitable material that may allow for resterilization. Hinges or other suitable connections may be included in applicator tool 80 that allow for relative movement between sub-components, such as when applicator tool is made from a relatively rigid material. As additional examples, a variety of different linkages, levers 88A, 88B, and handle 94 are within the scope of the present disclosure, as will be discussed in more detail below.

[0045] According to the example of the first embodiment depicted in FIG. 2E, the tissue bridge 20 and the applicator tool 80 are cooperatively configured such that the applicator tool can be releasably engaged to the tissue bridge and used to manipulate the tissue bridge as part of a method of mounting the tissue bridge to tissue. For example, FIG. 2E depicts a bearing or contact surface 82 in opposite facing relationship to the upper surface of the arch 28 and a shank 90 extending through the hole 56. In the configuration of FIG. 2E, the protrusion 92 is hidden from view within the receptacle 52, as partially illustrated diagrammatically by the dashed line. More generally, the above-discussed capturing portions of the applicator tool 80 and the tissue bridge 20, respectively, are mutually engaged in FIG. 2E. However, a variety of differently configured capturing portions are within the scope of the present disclosure.

[0046] Applicator tool 80 may optionally further include one or more features for at least partially facilitating a predetermined cooperative interaction between the applicator tool and tissue bridge 20. For example, levers 88A, 88B, and / or handles 94, or features associated therewith, may be configured to contact one another when a desired degree of deformation in tissue bridge 20 is reached, thereby attempting to prevent excessive distortion of the tissue bridge. Additionally or alternatively, levers 88A, 88B, and / or handles 94, or features associated therewith, may be configured (e.g., may include one or more catches, rows of catches, or the like configured) to cause applicator tool 80 to hold tissue bridge 20 in one or more predetermined deformation states (e.g., one or more predetermined strained, deformed, or extended configurations) without requiring a user to continually squeeze handles 94 or the like together. For example, applicator tool 80 can include mechanisms (e.g., rows of traps) that can be activated sequentially, similar to such mechanisms of surgical clamps, so that one click (e.g., a first predetermined engagement between the traps or equivalent) can cause a relatively low deformation state in the tissue bridge, two clicks (e.g., a second predetermined engagement between the traps or equivalent) can cause a relatively moderate deformation state in the tissue bridge, and three clicks (e.g., a third predetermined engagement between the traps or equivalent) can cause a relatively large deformation state (e.g., full deformation) in the tissue bridge. Additionally, levers 88A, 88B, handle 94, and / or other suitably associated features can have different shapes to aid in ergonomically optimized use, for example, by including partial or full rings, recesses shaped to receive a user's fingers and / or other suitable features. Cooperative interactions between the applicator tool 80 and the tissue bridge 20, such as engagement between their capturing portions, will be discussed in further detail below, following a discussion of the tissue bridge and applicator tool options that may be conveniently provided as part of a kit.

[0047] According to a first embodiment, as at least partially depicted in Figure 3A, one or more of the tissue bridges 20 and, optionally, at least one applicator tool 80 can be provided as part of a kit or package 120, which may further include a release liner 62 and adhesive 64 (Figure 1E). In the example shown in Figures 3A-3C, the package 120 can include a container in the form of an injection molded or vacuum formed tray 122 or equivalent. The tray 122 can have a base panel 124 and a sidewall 126 extending upwardly from the periphery of the base panel and defining a cavity of the tray. Package 120 and / or tray 122 may also optionally include at least one divider 128 extending upwardly from base panel 124 and positioned between and remote from opposing walls 126 to at least partially divide the tray cavity into at least first and second compartments configured to receive applicator tool 80 and one or more tissue bridges 20, respectively. The first compartment of tray 122, and more specifically, divider 128 and sidewalls 126 that at least partially define the first compartment of the tray, may define a shape that is complementary to or generally identical to a peripheral shape of applicator tool 80 such that a releasable interference fit may be defined between the first compartment and the applicator tool therein. As another example, tray 122, divider 128, and first compartment of applicator tool 80 may be omitted from tray 122. Optional applicator tool 80 can be provided as part of a package that is separate from the package containing tray 122 .

[0048] As an example, the tray 122 may be an inner tray that may be placed within either an outer tray, a pouch, and / or other suitable packaging. As another example, the tray 122 may include other features, such as slots or other surface features that may be used to secure the tray to a user's body (e.g., non-dominant forearm), to a fixture (e.g., a Mayo tray), or in other suitable configurations.

[0049] With reference to the exploded view of FIG. 3B and the isolated top view of the tray 122 of FIG. 3C, the base panel 124 can be configured in the form of and / or to define a generally raised support extending along at least a portion of the length of the tray. The raised support can include an elevated central section 130 of the base panel and a downwardly sloping outer section 132 of the base panel. The central section 130 can be flat, although precise flatness may not be required as the central section can be generally or substantially flat, or any other suitable configuration. For example, the central section can be concave or the like. The outer section 132 can extend diagonally, more specifically outwardly and downwardly, from an opposite portion or edge of the raised central section 130. For example, the outer section 132 can extend diagonally, inwardly, and upwardly from a lower marginal portion 134 of the base panel 124. Two or more pairs of outer sections 132 can be included in each tray 122. Alternatively, the central section 130 may be recessed downwardly relative to the inner portion of the outer section 132 .

[0050] 1E, 3A, 3B, 3D, and 3E, the release liner 62 can include a series of disruption lines 136. Each disruption line 136 can comprise one or more cuts, slits, frangible lines, perforations, and / or overlapping and / or sequential combinations thereof to at least partially define a flap 138 within the release liner 62, as will be discussed in more detail below. The disruption lines 136 can be configured in a variety of patterns. In some examples, the patterns can be symmetrical in relationship to each associated (e.g., subsequently mounted) tissue bridge 20. In other examples, the disruption lines 136 can be asymmetrical in relationship to each associated (e.g., subsequently mounted) tissue bridge 20. In a first embodiment, each disruption line 136 extends partially around a foot pad 24 that is mounted to a flap 138 defined by the disruption line, and an opposite end of the disruption line extends below the foot pad.

[0051] According to the first embodiment, the tissue bridge 20 can be assembled manually and / or at least partially assembled via one or more automated coating, lamination, and cutting processes. For example, the release liner 62 can be a laminated base or underlay layer that is appropriately cut (e.g., die cut) and partially peeled to at least partially form the foot pad 24 on the release liner, and then the body 22 can be mounted to the foot pad 24 or equivalent, respectively. The line of disruption 136 can be formed by an appropriate one or more of cutting (e.g., die cut) steps or equivalent, such that the line of disruption (e.g., slit, perforation, or other suitable cut) can extend at least partially into one or more layers of the foot pad 24. As a more specific example, the line of disruption 136 or an extension thereof, or equivalent, can extend into the outer adhesive layer 40 (FIG. 1E). Typically, at an appropriate time after die cutting or the like, the underside of the release liner 62 can be fixedly secured to a surface of the outer section 132 of the tray 122 via, for example, adhesive 64 (FIG. 1E) arranged in a pattern such that the adhesive is omitted from between the flaps 138 in the release liner and the individual portions of the tray (e.g., the outer section 132) such that the flaps can be moved relative to the remaining portions of the release liner, as will be discussed in more detail below. More generally, any adhesive or other suitable connection between the flaps 138 and the individual portions of the tray 122 (e.g., the outer section 132) is weaker than the adhesive or other suitable connection between the remaining portions of the release liner 62 and the tray such that the flaps can be moved relative to the remaining portions of the release liner, as will be discussed in more detail below.

[0052] 4A-4F, a method of using the applicator tool 80 to remove the tissue bridge 20 from the tray 122 according to the first embodiment will now be described. In FIG. 4A-4F, the tray 122 and the release liner 62 are cross-sectionalized along line 4-4 of FIG. 3E. With reference to FIG. 4A, initially, the applicator tool 80 (e.g., in its undeformed or resting configuration) can be engaged against the tissue bridge 20 (e.g., in its undeformed or resting configuration) via a relative movement (e.g., movement of the applicator tool toward the tissue bridge mounted on the release liner 62 in the tray) that causes increased closure between the applicator tool 80 and the tray 122. With reference to FIG. 4A and 4B, in response to the relative movement, the projection 92 of the tool capture portion 84 can enter the receptacle 52 via the hole 56 (FIGS. 1A and 1B). That is, the projection 92 can enter the receptacle 52 by advancing through the hole 56. For example, the applicator tool 80 can be pushed downward such that the projections 92 of the tool capture portion 84 enter the receptacle 52 through the holes 56, and optionally engage the tissue bridge 20 in such a manner that the tool contact surface 82 engages the central apex of the arch 28 or any other suitable surface. The applicator tool 80 can be in its undeformed or stationary configuration throughout the step of the projections 92 of the tool capture portion 84 entering the receptacle 52 through the holes 56. As another example, the distance between the tips of the projections 92 can exceed the distance between the hole edges 58 (FIGS. 1A and 1B) such that the projections "snap" into the holes 56 and / or receptacle 52, and optionally are releasably contained within the receptacle via an interference fit or the like.

[0053] The relative movement causing increased closure between the applicator tool 80 and the tray 122 may be facilitated by a user manually holding the handle 94 of the applicator tool and moving the applicator tool toward the tissue bridge 20 in the tray, or the tissue bridge may be supported by any other suitable surface. With reference to FIG. 4B, the protrusions 92 may engage respective surfaces of the intermediate post 48 in response to the relative movement causing increased closure between the applicator tool 80 and the tray 122.

[0054] 4C and 4D configurations successively, the relative movement causing increased closure between the applicator tool 80 and the tray 122 can continue, and the handles 94 can be manually squeezed together (e.g., pushed toward each other) so that the applicator tool reconfigures toward its actuated or deformed configuration and applies a deforming force to the tissue bridge 20. As the applicator tool 80 is simultaneously pushed, for example with a greater force against the tissue bridge 20, further deforming toward its deformed configuration, the applicator tool applies a force against the tissue bridge 20 such that the tissue bridge responsively deforms toward its distorted, deformed, or extended configuration. For example, the applicator tool 80 can simultaneously apply a downward force via the contact surface 82 and a laterally outward force via the capture portion 84.

[0055] In the transition from the configuration of FIG. 4C to the configuration of FIG. 4D , the outer portion of the foot pad 24 has moved, or more specifically, pivoted, away from the tray outer section 132. As discussed above, the flap 138 can be attached to the outer portion of the foot pad 24 via the outer adhesive layer 42 (FIG. 1E). Thus, the flap 138 is carried by and can pivot therewith. Thus, the flap 138 pivots outwardly relative to the remainder of the release liner 62, which remains fixedly mounted to the tray base panel 124. That is, the flap 138 can pivot outwardly relative to (e.g., at least partially peeled away from) the remainder of the release liner 62 as well as the tray 122 in response to respective movements, reconfigurations, and / or the like of the tissue bridge 20 as well as the applicator tool 80. In the first embodiment, the release liner 62 is a support that supports the tissue bridge, and each flap 138 can be referred to as a first section of the support, and the remaining portion of the release liner 62 and / or the tray 122 can be referred to as a second section of the support or the like.

[0056] As another example, in transitioning from the configuration of FIG. 4C to the configuration of FIG. 4D , the protrusions 92 urge (e.g., deflect) the middle post 48 downward toward the recessed central section 130 of the tray 122, closing one or more gaps 140 (FIGS. 4A and 4B) located between the middle post and the tray central section. However, such post deflection and / or closing of the gap 140 may be optional and may not occur. As other examples, it is contemplated that the gap 140 may be at least partially closed, only partially closed, and / or may be possible to omit the gap 140 in some circumstances. That is, in an example, the middle post 48 may pivot downward relative to the remainder of the foot pad 24 in response to the respective movement, reconfiguration, and / or the like, of the tissue bridge 20 and the applicator tool 80.

[0057] 4C-4F, the applicator tool 80 and tissue bridge 20 can be cooperatively configured and engaged with one another in a predetermined manner such that in response to the handles 94 being manually squeezed or pushed closer to one another, at least the lower portions of the tool capturing portions 84 are moved farther away from one another and the contact surfaces 82 move toward a line between the capturing portions 84, this movement of the applicator tool 80 urging the tissue bridge 20 into its fully deformed or extended configuration, an example of which is shown in FIG. 4F. For example, the manual inward force applied to opposite sides of the handles 94 to achieve this configuration can be in the range of greater than 0.2 pounds of force (0.89 Newtons) to less than 2 pounds of force (8.9 Newtons).

[0058] 4E to the configuration of FIG. 4F, the release liner 62 typically separates completely from the tissue bridge 20 and the flaps 138 can pivot / retract to their original positions in response to the relative movement causing an increased distance between the applicator tool 80 and the tray 122. The release liner 62 typically separates completely from the tissue bridge 20 in a manner that fully exposes the outer adhesive layer 42 (FIG. 1E) (e.g., patient contact adhesive) such that there is no remnant of the release liner stuck to the tissue bridge and the outer adhesive layer is ready to be used to secure the tissue bridge to tissue, such as the patient's skin.

[0059] 4F, tissue bridge 20 and applicator tool 80 are engaged with one another and both are in their deformed configurations such that the tissue bridge is firmly grasped or otherwise held by the applicator tool such that when the applicator tool is manually released from the tray 122, the applicator tool carries the tissue bridge away from the tray. While tissue bridge 20 is held firmly by applicator tool 80, the applicator tool can be used to apply the tissue bridge to tissue, such as the patient's skin.

[0060] 4G-4K, a method of using an applicator tool 80 to apply a tissue bridge 20 to tissue 152 on either side of an incision 150 in a patient's skin 152 according to a first embodiment will now be described. FIG. 4G diagrammatically depicts the initially spaced edges of the incision 150 with dashed lines 154, and solid lines 156 diagrammatically depict that the edges of the incision may be manually pushed together prior to applying the tissue bridge 20 across the incision. The applicator tool 80 holding the tissue bridge 20 can be moved towards the incision 150 such that the tissue bridge 20 extends transversely, more specifically, generally perpendicular to the length of the incision 150, and first contact between the tissue bridge and the tissue or skin 152 occurs at the inner end sections or portions of the middle struts 48 on either side of the incision. 4H and 4I, the applicator tool 80 can continue to be pushed closer to the incision 150 such that the inner portions of the middle struts 48 begin to be adhered to the skin 152 by the outer adhesive layer 42 (FIG. 1E) (e.g., patient contact adhesive). For example, the transmission of force from the applicator tool 80, via the capture portion 84, to the middle struts 48 can engage the pressure sensitive adhesive layer 42 against the tissue 152 with sufficient force to adhere the inner portions of the middle struts 48 to the tissue 152 on either side of the incision 150. The manual force on the handle 94 of the applicator tool 80 can then be reduced such that the tissue bridge 20 returns towards its resting configuration and the middle struts 48 move closer together, pushing the portions of the tissue 152 to be adhered towards each other. Then, in response to tissue bridge 20 moving further back towards its resting configuration, reconfiguration of the tissue bridge causes the outer portion of foot pad 24 to move or pivot downwardly into contact with tissue 152 on the opposite side of incision 150. In one embodiment, this contact between the outer portion of foot pad 24 and tissue 152 on the opposite side of incision 150 can occur with sufficient force to cause pressure sensitive adhesive layer 42 to firmly adhere the outer portion of foot pad 24 to tissue 152 on the opposite side of incision 150.

[0061] According to a first embodiment, the inner portions of the middle struts 48 are adhesively mounted to the tissue 152 while the tissue bridge 20 is in its deformed or extended configuration, and then as the tissue bridge 20 moves back towards its rest configuration and reaches an intermediate configuration between the extended and rest configurations, the remaining or outer portions of the foot pad 24 are adhesively mounted to the tissue. When the tissue bridge 20 is first engaged against the tissue 152, the first contact and adhesive mounting point to the tissue may be the inner end section or portion of the middle strut 48, and this mounting may occur while the middle struts are being pushed downwardly via the applicator tool 80. In the first embodiment, as the deformation force being applied to the tissue bridge 20 by the applicator tool 80 is reduced, the middle struts 48 move or rotate inwardly, thus drawing about the tissue 152 to which they are adhesively mounted, and this action by the middle struts 48 occurs before the outer portions of the foot pad 24 are adhesively attached to the tissue. At this midpoint, where the intermediate struts 48 are at least partially attached to the tissue 152 and have moved inward, and the outer portions of the foot pads 24 are not yet attached to the tissue, the shear stresses and / or strains on the given tissue (i.e., the tissue to the side of the most lateral contact point between the intermediate struts and the tissue) are distributed laterally in a graded manner. The lateral or outer portions of the foot pads 24 are then pressed down and attached to the tissue 152, and the given tissue under and at the lateral or outer edges of the foot pads 24 are secured (e.g., glued to the foot pads) in that state such that the stresses and / or strains in the given tissue are distributed laterally in a graded manner, which tends to prevent sudden high shear stresses at the lateral edges (e.g., opposite ends) of the tissue bridge 20.

[0062] 4K, the applicator tool 80 can then be removed from the tissue bridge 20 such that the tissue bridge remains mounted across the incision 150, and the applicator tool may then be used to place another tissue bridge. As an example, the distance between the tips of the projections 92 can exceed the distance between the hole edges 58 (FIGS. 1A and 1B). In such an example, the upper surface or engagement shoulder 93 of the capturing portion 84 can extend diagonally downward from the shank 90 such that there can be relative sliding between the shoulder 93 and the edge 83 as the applicator tool 80 is withdrawn from the tissue bridge. In response to such sliding, the capturing portions 84 can pivot toward one another and thus be released from the holes 56. Alternatively, the capturing portions 84 can be moved toward one another in any other suitable manner as part of the capturing portions 84 being released from the holes 56. As another example, after the tissue bridge 20 is mounted on the patient and the applicator tool 80 is allowed to return to its relaxed configuration, the tissue bridge 20 may reconfigure toward its relaxed configuration without reaching it completely, such that the protrusions 92 may pass freely through the holes 56.

[0063] A user may, for example, manually press down on the foot pad 24 with their finger 157 with sufficient force to ensure that the pressure-sensitive adhesive layer 42 firmly adheres the foot pad 24 to the tissue 152 on the opposite side of the incision 150. According to a first embodiment, the tissue bridge 20 may be mounted to the tissue 152 in such a manner that the tissue bridge and tissue apply forces against each other and the force applied by the tissue typically limits the tissue bridge from fully returning to its resting configuration. As a result, the tissue bridge 20 applies a compressive force to the tissue 152 via the foot pad 24 as depicted diagrammatically in FIG. 4K by arrows 158 in a manner that may, for example, reduce tension in the tissue and help close the wound 150, prevent wound reopening, and / or prevent disfiguring (e.g., enlargement) of the scar. In the example shown in FIG. 4K, the tissue 152 adjacent the scar and / or wound 150 bulges into a central area across which the arch 28 extends.

[0064] For example, as shown in FIG. 4K, when the tissue bridge is loaded, the intermediate struts 48 are typically subjected to longitudinal compression in conjunction with the forces being applied by the tissue 152 and the tissue bridge 20 relative to one another. Additionally, the intermediate struts 48 can be configured in a manner that seeks to allow the arches 28 and intermediate struts to move in a manner that provides a wide opening 160 (FIG. 4G) for at least partially encapsulating the target tissue 152, wound 150, scar, or the like, such that the tissue bridge 20 can function to substantially prevent any tension in the tissue, wound reopening, and / or scar disfigurement (e.g., widening). Additionally, the intermediate struts 48 can advantageously reach inward toward the wound (or scar) margins. Additionally, the intermediate struts 48 can flex upwards or downwards to independently compensate for changes in tissue tension (e.g., due to expansion) or off-center placement of the tissue bridge, and thus the intermediate struts can help align the edges of the wound (or scar) to the same vertical height.

[0065] In alternative embodiments, applicator tool 80 may be replaced with one or more other suitable tools or features configured to provide one or more forces corresponding to the downward force provided via contact surface 82 and the laterally outward force provided via capture portion 84. Such alternative tools may include a plunger mechanism, a side-directing pliers mechanism, a cam-activated mechanism, and / or any other suitable feature, and such alternative tools may be multi-part tools. As another example, tissue bridge 20 may be applied to tissue 152 using one or more straps or the like, as will be discussed in more detail below.

[0066] Numerous other embodiments are also within the scope of the present disclosure. For example, other embodiments of the present disclosure (e.g., embodiments 2-14) can be at least generally constructed and / or function as the first embodiment, except for the variations described and variations that would be reasonably apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art. Thus, some of the drawing reference numbers used above may be used below, and / or reference numbers for similarly constructed and / or similarly functioning features may be incremented by a factor of 200 or other amount below.

[0067] 5A-5D, which relate to the tissue bridge 320 of the second embodiment, the outer extensions 350 of the outer sheet 334 extend further outwardly as compared to the corresponding features of the first embodiment. In addition, the inner sheet 336 includes outer extensions 350' that extend outwardly beyond the outer edges of the respective foot plates or flanges 326 and are recessed inwardly relative to the outer edges of the respective outer extensions 350. The holes 356 can be included in the body 322, or these holes can be omitted, as the tissue bridge 320 can be mounted using features other than the applicator tool 80 of the first embodiment.

[0068] As shown in FIGS. 5A-5D, at least one central release or release liner 462 and one or more release or release liner mounting straps 464 are mounted to the foot pad 324 via the outer adhesive layer 42 (FIG. 1E) (e.g., patient-contact adhesive). An inner end of the mounting strap 464 can include at least one folded flap 465. The central release liner 462 can define or include at least one tab 466, which can extend from a side of the central release liner. In a second embodiment, the mounting strap 464 is longer than the central release liner 462 and configured such that it can be used as an applicator tool to mount the tissue bridge 320 to the tissue 452. The release liners 462, 464 can each be, for example, a release liner in the form of a release-coated paper or plastic-based film sheet that is engaged against the outer adhesive layer 42 such that the tissue bridge 320 is releasably mounted on the release liners 462, 464.

[0069] 6A-6F, a method of applying a tissue bridge 320 onto tissue 452 including a wound 450 according to a second embodiment will now be described. Referring to FIG. 6A and then to FIG. 6B-6D, the tab 466 (FIGS. 5A-5C) can be manually grasped and pulled to remove the central release liner 462 and expose the outer adhesive layer 42 on at least the middle strut 348. The free ends of the release liner mounting straps 464 may then be drawn together and pulled, such as by a finger 457, while another finger 457 pushes downwardly onto the arch 328 such that a deformation force is applied to the tissue bridge 320 and the inner portions of the middle struts 348 begin to be adhered to the tissue 452 by the outer adhesive layer 42 (FIG. 1E) (e.g., patient contact adhesive). In the second embodiment, the mounting of the tissue bridge 320 onto the tissue 452 can be performed at least generally similar to the first embodiment, such that after the intermediate posts 348 are at least partially attached to the tissue 452 and moved inward, while the outer portions of the foot pads 324 are not yet attached to the tissue, the shear stresses and / or strains on the given tissue (i.e., the tissue to the side of the lateral-most contact points between the intermediate posts and the tissue) are distributed laterally in a graded manner, and then, when the lateral or outer portions of the foot pads 324 are pressed down and attached to the tissue 452, the given tissue below and at the lateral or outer edges of the foot pads 324 is secured (e.g., glued to the foot pads) in that state such that the stresses and / or strains in the given tissue are distributed laterally in a graded manner, which attempts to prevent sudden high shear stresses at the lateral edges (e.g., opposite ends) of the tissue bridge 320.

[0070] 6E and 6F, the mounting straps 464 can be removed from the tissue bridge 320 by manually grasping and pulling the flaps 465. The user can then manually press down on the foot pads 324 with enough force to ensure that the pressure-sensitive adhesive layer 42 firmly adheres the foot pads to the tissue 452 on the opposite side of the scar or wound 150.

[0071] 7, in a third embodiment, the outer ends of the mounting straps 464 can be fixedly connected to one another via any suitable mechanical fasteners 459, adhesive 459, or the like, such that a user may apply the tissue bridge using the fingers 457 of one hand. With reference to FIGS. 6C and 7, joining the outer ends of the mounting straps 464 together, for example, manually and / or with one or more fasteners 459 and / or adhesive 459, can not only flex the arch 328, but also the shoulder 432 and foot plate or flange 426 when the tissue bridge 320 is in its deformed or extended configuration.

[0072] According to a fourth embodiment, FIG. 8A depicts an applicator tool 580, FIG. 8B depicts the applicator tool 580 receiving a tissue bridge 520, and FIG. 8C depicts both the tissue bridge and the applicator tool in their deformed configurations such that the tissue bridge 520 and the applicator tool 580 are engaged with one another and the tissue bridge is firmly gripped or otherwise held by the applicator tool. With reference to FIG. 8A, the contact surface 582 may be a lower end surface of the central link 586A, and the outer link 586B may extend diagonally upward from the central link 586A to a lever 588 or handle 594. The capturing portion 584 may include a shank 590 extending downward from a lower end of the lever 588 or handle 594. Each capturing portion 584 may further include at least one protrusion 592 extending outward from a lower end of the shank 590 in a direction that may be transverse to the length of the shank. The protrusion 592 can extend along, or more specifically, parallel to, the length of the contact surface 582. With reference to Figures 8B and 8C, the protrusion 592 can enter the receptacle 552 (defined in part by the middle post 548) through a side opening of the receptacle 552.

[0073] According to a fifth embodiment, Fig. 9A depicts an applicator tool 780, Fig. 9B depicts the applicator tool 780 receiving a tissue bridge 720, and Figs. 9C and 9D depict both the tissue bridge and the applicator tool in their deformed configurations such that the tissue bridge 720 and the applicator tool 780 are engaged with one another and the tissue bridge is firmly gripped or otherwise held by the applicator tool. With reference to Fig. 9A, the contact surface 782 can be a lower end surface of a central link 786A, and the outer links 786B can extend diagonally upward from the central link 786A to a lever 788 or handle 794 joined to one another at their upper ends. The capture portion 784 can include a shank 790 extending downward from a lower end of the lever 788 or handle 794. Each capturing portion 784 may further include at least one protrusion 792 extending outwardly from a lower end of the shank 790 in a direction that may be transverse to the length of the shank. The protrusion 792 may extend along, or more specifically, parallel to, the length of the contact surface 782. With reference to Figures 9B-9D, the protrusion 792 may enter the receptacle 752 (defined in part by the middle post 748) through a side opening in the receptacle 752.

[0074] FIG. 10A depicts a tissue bridge 920 according to a sixth embodiment. The capture holes 956 that extend through the body 922 and open to the receptacle 952 can also open at a side edge of the body. According to the sixth embodiment, FIGS. 10B and 10C depict an applicator tool 980 receiving the tissue bridge 920, and FIGS. 10D and 10E depict the tissue bridge 920 and the applicator tool 980 both engaged together in their deformed configurations such that the tissue bridge is firmly gripped or otherwise held by the applicator tool. The capture portion shanks 990 can enter the respective capture holes 956 from the side, and the capture portion protrusions 992 can enter the receptacle 952 (defined in part by the middle post 948) through a side opening in the receptacle 952.

[0075] FIG 11A depicts the tissue bridge 1120 of the seventh embodiment. In the seventh embodiment, the capture hole 1156 is in the form of a slot 1156 that extends through the body 1122 and opens into the receptacle 1152. According to the seventh embodiment, FIGs 11B and 11C depict an applicator tool 1180 receiving the tissue bridge 1120, and FIGs 11D and 11E depict the tissue bridge 1120 and the applicator tool 1180 both in their deformed configurations engaged together such that the tissue bridge is firmly gripped or otherwise held by the applicator tool. A capture portion 1184 extends downwardly through the slot 1156. An enlarged section at the lower end of the central link 1186A of the applicator tool fits into the slot 1156, and a protrusion 1187 extending from the opposite side of the lower end of the central link 1186A engages against the upper surface of the arch 1128 on the opposite side of the slot 1156. The levers 1188 or handles 1194 can be joined to one another at their upper ends, and tabs 1168 or other suitable structures extending inwardly from the levers 1188 or handles 1194 can engage one another and limit any further inward movement of the levers 1188 or handles 1194 when the tissue bridge 1120 and applicator tool 1180 engaged together are both in their deformed configurations. For example, the tabs 1168 and / or other suitable features can be configured to contact one another when a desired degree of deformation in the tissue bridge 1120 is reached, thereby attempting to prevent excessive distortion of the tissue bridge.

[0076] As at least alluded to above, the tissue bridge and applicator tool of the third through seventh embodiments can be cooperatively configured with respect to one another, at least generally, like the tissue bridge and applicator tool of the first embodiment. For example, referring back to Figures 4C and 4D, the tissue bridge and applicator tool of the third through seventh embodiments can be cooperatively configured to function like the tissue bridge and applicator tool of the first embodiment with respect to the catches or protrusions 92 that engage and urge (e.g., bias) the intermediate posts 48 downwardly.

[0077] According to an eighth embodiment, Figures 12A and 12B depict an applicator tool 1380 receiving a tissue bridge body 1320, and Figures 12C and 12D depict the tissue bridge 1380 and tissue bridge body 1320 both engaged together in their deformed configurations such that the tissue bridge body is firmly gripped or otherwise held by the applicator tool. The capture portion 1384 can comprise a receptacle, or more specifically, a slot, into which the opposing ends of the tissue bridge body 1320, respectively, extend. The levers 1388 or handles 1394 can have loops, partial loops, handles, and / or other suitable features fixedly connected at or along their upper ends to receive a finger of an operator of the tool 1380, another finger can be pressed downwardly against a platform and / or other suitable feature at the upper end of the central link 1186A.

[0078] The applicator tool 1380 can have a first body with a first lever 1388 connected to a first capturing portion 1384 and a second body with a second lever 1388 connected to a second capturing portion 1384. With reference to Figures 12B and 12C, a reconfigurable linkage (e.g., linkages 1186A, 1186B) interconnects the first and second bodies and can be configured (e.g., simultaneously) such that the first and second bodies are pivotable relative to one another about first and second axes 1371, 1372, respectively, and the first and second axes 1371, 1372 are movable toward and away from one another. The lever 1388, handle 1394, connectors (e.g., connectors 1186A, 1186B), and / or other suitable associated features can have a variety of different shapes to facilitate ergonomically optimized use, for example, by including partial or full rings, recesses shaped to receive a user's fingers and / or other suitable features.

[0079] 13A and 13B depict a ninth embodiment tissue bridge 1520. As shown in FIGS. 13A-13C, capture holes 1556 can extend through the foot plate or flange 1526. Referring to the exploded view of FIG. 13C, the tissue bridge 1520 includes inner and middle adhesive layers 1538, 1540 between and securely connecting the inner sheet 1536 and the flange 1526 and the outer sheet 1534 and the inner sheet, respectively. The tissue bridge 1520 can further include lower holes 1527 in the inner adhesive layer 1538 and the inner sheet 1536. The lower holes 1527 can open to the capture holes 1556, which can also extend outwardly to open at the outer edges of the inner adhesive layer 1538 and the inner sheet 1536. As discussed in more detail below, the capture holes 1556 can mate with individual portions of an applicator tool. Additionally and / or alternatively, holes 1527, 1556 (eg, open windows) can provide a path for ventilation / moisture transmission.

[0080] According to a ninth embodiment, Fig. 13D depicts a tissue bridge 1520 mounted in a tray 1622, and Figs. 13E and 13F depict some of the steps of a method of using an applicator tool 1580 to remove the tissue bridge from the tray 1622. For example, in response to a relative movement causing increased closure between the applicator tool 1580 and the tray 1622, more specifically, movement of the applicator tool towards the tissue bridge 1520 mounted in the tray, the tool capture portion 1584 can enter the inner lower hole 1527 via the outer hole 1556 such that a separate portion of the outer sheet 1534 can be engaged by the protrusion 1592 and thereby pushed outward (e.g., stretched), and the capture portion 84 becomes releasably connected to the tissue bridge 1520. The inner lower hole 1527 can further extend through other layers of the foot pad 1524. In the ninth embodiment, when the applicator tool 1580 is operated to cause both the applicator tool and the tissue bridge 1520 to assume their deformed configurations such that the tissue bridge is firmly gripped or otherwise held by the applicator tool, not only does the arch 1528 flex, but the shoulder 1532 and foot plate or flange 1526 also flex, similarly as shown in Figures 6C and 7.

[0081] 14 is a pictorial view of the bottom of an applicator tool 1780 according to a tenth embodiment. According to the tenth embodiment, a bearing or contact surface 1782 positioned between capture portions 1784 for pressing against the apexes of the arches of the tissue bridges is defined at the junctions between the links 1786 and / or at an underside point of at least one of the links 1786. One or more links 1786 may extend diagonally upward from the contact surface 1782 to a lever 1788 or handle 1794. FIG. 15 is a top view of a tray 1822 at least partially containing the applicator tool 1780 and a series of tissue bridges 1720.

[0082] Other embodiments are within the scope of the present disclosure. For example, the capture portion of the tissue bridge may include a hook-shaped member, shelf, shoulder, or other capture-like feature extending upwardly from the foot plate or flange for engaging the capture of an applicator tool. In another example, the shoulder and foot plate or flange may be omitted from the body of the tissue bridge, and a curved foot pad, which may include a curved intermediate strut, may be connected either directly or indirectly to the arch of such a tissue bridge.

[0083] As another example, one or more therapeutic agents can optionally be included in any of the above kits, packages, and / or in or on the tissue bridge. For example, pharmaceuticals, biologics (e.g., amniotic or chorionic membrane), growth factors, wound healing factors, drugs (wound modulating agents, steroids, antibiotics), and / or other suitable therapeutic agents can be included in the kits, packages, and / or in or on the tissue bridge in a manner that seeks to improve wound healing, reduce scarring, and / or reduce complications. As a specific example, an element or medium in addition to or that is an additional part of the tissue bridge may comprise a therapeutic agent, and such medium may be associated with any of the above tissue bridges.

[0084] 16A-16C depict some of the steps of a method of associating a medium with one or more of the tissue bridges 20 of the first embodiment, although the method may be performed with any other suitable tissue bridges or equivalents. The medium may be in the form of a strip 170 of material, such as, but not limited to, silicone tape. FIG. 16A depicts a tissue 152, e.g., an elongated scar or wound 150 in the outer surface of the epidermis of a patient. Referring also to FIG. 16B, the scar or wound 150 may be covered with a strip 170, the covering strip typically extending along the scar or wound. Referring to FIGS. 16C and 16D, one or more of the tissue bridges 20 may be mounted to the tissue 152 such that the tissue bridge extends across the strip 170, and for each tissue bridge, the strip extends between the inner edges of the foot pad 24, more specifically, the strip extends between the inner edges of the intermediate struts 48.

[0085] In the embodiment shown in FIG. 16D, the strip 170 is not fixedly connected to the tissue bridge 20, but can optionally be connected to the tissue 152 using a releasable adhesive 172. Alternatively, in the embodiment shown in FIG. 16E, the strip 170 can be fixedly connected to the arch 28 using an adhesive 174. Referring to FIG. 16E, the relative size of the features can be such that the strip 170 can engage both the underside of the arch 28 and the scar or wound 150 in a manner that tends to hold the strip in place, whether or not the adhesive 174 is present. For example, the strip or medium 170 can be a foam of a thickness such that one or more tissue bridges 20 press down slightly on the foam, maintaining good contact between the foam and the scar or wound 150, and the foam can be, or optionally include, one or more therapeutic agents, such as silicone.

[0086] Additionally or alternatively, the strips can be mounted to the arches 28. For example, with respect to the method associated with FIG. 16E, the underside of one or more of the arches 28 can be fixedly connected to the strips 170 by adhesive 174 during initial manufacture of one or more tissue bridges such that the strips 170 are initially engaged against the scar or wound 150 in the tissue 152 at the same time that the one or more tissue bridges are mounted to the tissue. That is, multiple tissue bridges 20 may be fixedly mounted to a single strip 170 and / or each tissue bridge may be mounted to a separate strip. With respect to the latter embodiment, for each tissue bridge 20, the strips 170 can be wider than the width of the tissue bridges such that when a series of tissue bridges are applied adjacent to one another, the end sections adjacent the strips abut and / or overlap one another.

[0087] 16F, in addition to the strip or medium 170 being positioned between the inner edges of the foot pads 24 or the middle struts 48, the strip or medium can also extend at least partially across the middle struts, such as to accommodate a relatively large area of ​​adhesive 174. In one aspect of the present disclosure, the strip or medium 170 may or may not extend laterally to the height of the middle edge of the middle struts 48 when the tissue bridge 20 is in a rest configuration. For example, FIG. 16G depicts a side view of the tissue bridge 20 in its rest configuration, with the strip or medium 170 fixedly connected to the underside of the arch by adhesive 174, and the strip or medium 170 configured to be positioned at least partially between the foot pads 24 and / or the middle struts 48 when the tissue bridge is mounted to tissue 152, as shown, for example, in one or more of FIGS. 16D-F.

[0088] To repeat from above, in one embodiment, the strip 170 may be made of silicone or a silicone strip. As another embodiment, the strip 170 may be any suitable medium comprising one or more therapeutic agents, embodiments of which are described above. As an additional embodiment, the strip or medium 170 may be made of or otherwise contain other materials, such as, but not limited to, foams, fabrics (woven, non-woven, and / or felt), laminates of the same / different materials, and the like, as well as materials of various geometries / forms, that may carry and / or comprise one or more therapeutic agents. The materials may have one or more properties that work with or enable the therapeutic agent. As another embodiment, the strip or medium 170 may be made of a biodegradable material, such as, but not limited to, a polymer that may be "doped" with a therapeutic agent such that the therapeutic agent is released as the polymer degrades. Alternatively, the strip or medium 170 may not contain or otherwise carry any therapeutic agent and may be or function as a bandage, tape, or other suitable medical covering for engaging the scar or wound 150. As another example, one or more therapeutic agents may be applied to the scar or wound 150 in a conventional manner, after which the strip or medium 170 and tissue bridge 20 may be loaded over the one or more therapeutic agents on the scar or wound.

[0089] The eleventh embodiment of the present disclosure is identical to the first and ninth embodiments discussed above, except for variations described and variations that will be apparent to those of skill in the art. Thus, for example, similar drawing reference numbers are used for the first and eleventh embodiments, except that the reference numbers for the eleventh embodiment are typically incremented by a factor of 2,000 compared to the first embodiment.

[0090] 17A-17E depict an at least partially elastic (e.g., generally elastic) medical article 2020 in its undeformed or resting configuration, according to an eleventh embodiment. Repeating at least in part from above, the medical article 2020 may optionally be referred to as a force modulating tissue bridge 2020 or simply a tissue bridge 2020, and throughout this disclosure the tissue bridge may be more generally referred to as a medical article.

[0091] 17A, the tissue bridge 2020 of the eleventh embodiment comprises a generally resilient body 2022 and one or more multi-layered foot pads 2024 mounted to the body, although in some examples one or more of the foot pads and / or portions thereof may be omitted (e.g., the foot pads may consist or consist essentially of a single layer). The body 2022 may generally be referred to as and / or generally function as a skeleton or other suitable structure configured to movably connect two or more of the foot pads 2024 to one another. The body 22 may include at least two flanges 2026 (e.g., feet) that extend obliquely, e.g., outwardly and downwardly, respectively, from opposing lower portions of a central section or arch 2028 of the body. Each of the flanges 2026 may be planar, or they may be substantially or approximately planar, as it may not be important that the flanges be precisely planar. The flanges 2026 can extend divergently relative to one another and at an angle relative to one another. The arch 2028 can include a central spanning section 2030 and lower sections 2032 each extending downwardly from an opposite portion of the spanning section. The lower section 2032 of the arch 2028 can optionally be configured as and / or referred to as a shoulder 2032. The flanges 2026 can each extend diagonally, for example, outwardly and downwardly, from a lower portion of the shoulder 2032. The shoulder 2032 can provide a smooth curvilinear transition between the spanning section 2030 of the arch 2028 and the flanges 2026.

[0092] In one embodiment, the central spanning section 2030 of the arch can be thicker than the flange 2026, although other variations are within the scope of the present disclosure. For example, while the arch 2028 is typically depicted in the drawings as being at least generally arcuate, it is contemplated that in some circumstances the arch 2028 can be at least a relatively flat arch, or the spanning section 2030 of the arch can be flat, or the arch or its features can be of any other suitable configuration that would enable the tissue bridge 2020 to function generally or substantially as described herein.

[0093] Each of the components of the tissue bridge 2020 will typically be constructed of a suitable medical grade material. For example, the body 2022 may be a unitary (e.g., single-piece) article that is injection molded or mechanically thermoformed such that the spanning section 2030, shoulder 2032, and flange 2026 may be formed together as a single article from an injection moldable or formable generally resilient material, such as, but not limited to, polycarbonate, or any other suitable injection moldable or formable material. The spanning section 2030, shoulder 2032, and flange 2026 may each be of approximately the same thickness, or alternatively, the thickness of the body 2022 may vary along its length. The width of the body 2022 may be tapered, for example, along its length such that the spanning section 2030 is relatively narrow (e.g., has a narrowed waist) compared to the shoulder 2032 and flange 2026 such that the spanning section may be more easily deformed compared to the shoulder and flange. For example, the side edges of the spanning section 2030 may be inwardly curved or concave, or they may have a stepped or other suitable configuration. Alternatively, the side edges of the spanning section 2030 can extend generally or substantially in a straight line, in a top view of the tissue bridge 2020, or they can extend in any other suitable manner.

[0094] The foot pads 2024 can be spaced apart from one another, and the foot pads can be fixedly mounted to the flanges 2026. Each foot pad 2024 can be or include a mat, laminate, or other suitable structure comprising one or more layers of material. For example, each foot pad 2024 can include an outer layer or outer sheet 2034 configured to be attached to tissue (e.g., skin tissue), and an inner layer or inner sheet 2036 positioned between and fixedly connected to the outer sheet 2034 and the respective flanges 2026.

[0095] 17E, the tissue bridge 2020 can include inner, middle, and outer adhesive layers 2038, 2040, 2042. The inner adhesive layer 2038 can be between and securely connect the inner sheet 2036 and the flange 2026, the middle adhesive layer 2040 can be between and securely connect the outer sheet 2034 and the inner sheet, and the outer adhesive layer 2042 can be on the outside of the outer sheet for attaching the tissue bridge 2020 to tissue (e.g., the patient's skin).

[0096] The outer and inner sheets 2034, 2036 can be provided by die cutting them from suitable webs or larger sheets of material, such as a woven or cast microporous polymer sheet for the outer sheet 2034, and an extruded polymer or plastic sheet for the inner sheet 2036. The outer sheet 2034 can be made from a suitable woven material, cast material, film, or other material of the type from which the skin contact layer of a bandage or other wound dressing is formed, or any other suitable material. The plastic inner sheet 2036 can be made from a suitable material, such as, for example, polyethylene, polyethylene terephthalate, or any other suitable material. The outer adhesive layer 2042 can have a lower adhesive strength than the inner and middle adhesive layers 2038, 2040, such as when the tissue bridge 2020 is to be removably mounted to tissue (e.g., the patient's skin).

[0097] Both the body 2022 and the inner sheet 2036 can have a higher modulus of elasticity (e.g., be formed from a stiffer material) than the outer sheet 2034. More generally, the body 2022 and the inner sheet 2036 can be stiffer than the outer sheet 2034 due to a variety of factors, such as being larger, thicker, and / or being made of a material having a higher modulus of elasticity. The body 2022, including its flanges 2026, can be thicker than each of the outer and inner sheets 2034, 2036, although the thickness can be varied. The arch 2028 can extend over an area into which portions of the outer and inner sheets may optionally extend. The area over which the arch 2028 extends can be referred to as a central area, a treatment area, a sub-arch area, and / or the like.

[0098] 17C, the medial extensions 2048 of the outer and inner sheets 2034, 2036 can extend congruently with one another into a central area across which the arch 2028 extends such that the medial extensions 2048 are not overlapped or coextensive with the flanges 2026. More generally, each foot pad 2024 can include at least one extension 2048 that extends into a central area across which the arch 2028 extends such that the medial extensions 2048 are not overlapped or coextensive with the flanges 2026. The medial extensions 2048 can be referred to as intermediate extensions 2048, for example, because they extend toward the center of the area across which the arch 2028 extends. The inner or intermediate extension 2048 can be configured to at least partially resist longitudinal compression when the tissue bridge 2020 in its extended configuration is mounted to tissue (e.g., skin tissue) and then allowed to generally reconfigure elastically from its extended configuration, at least partially toward its resting configuration. Thus, the inner or intermediate extension 2048 can be referred to as an intermediate strut 2048. A gap can be defined between adjacent ends of the intermediate extension 2048, the gap can be configured, for example, such that adjacent ends of the intermediate extension 2048 are spaced apart from each other and do not contact each other.

[0099] 17B, ​​for each foot pad 2024, one or more (e.g., four) edges or outer extensions of the outer sheet 2034 can extend outwardly beyond the inner sheet 2036 such that they are not overlapped or coextensive with the inner sheet 2036. In an eleventh embodiment, each intermediate post 2048 includes inner extensions 2048 of both sheets 2034, 2036, however, one or more layers or sheets of the intermediate post 2048 can be omitted such that each intermediate post can be formed from one or more layers of material.

[0100] 17C, the intermediate post 2048 can be spaced (e.g., at least partially spaced) from the arch 2028 and extend into a central area across which the arch extends such that a gap or receptacle 2052 is at least partially defined between the intermediate post and the arch. The receptacle 2052 can at least partially define, or be at least a part of, a capture portion configured to interact with a corresponding feature of an applicator tool that can be used, for example, in mounting the tissue bridge 2020 to tissue (e.g., the patient's skin). For example, the tissue bridge 2020 can include one or more capture portions, each with a receptacle 2052. A variety of differently configured capture portions are within the scope of the present disclosure.

[0101] The body 2022 can include at least two capture portions further comprising an inner bore 2056 extending therethrough and opening into the receptacle 2052. The inner bore 2056 can be defined in the arch 2028, more specifically, the inner bore 2056 can be positioned in an opposite end portion of the spanning section 2030. The inner bore 2056 can be open to a central area across which the arch 2028 extends, more specifically, the inner bore can be open to the receptacle 2052, and the middle post 2048 can extend below the inner bore. The inner bore 2056 can have any suitable shape. For example, they can be generally polygonal or generally rectangular, with the edge 2058 of the arch 2028 defining the inner bore 2056 extending transversely to the length of the arch.

[0102] The individual capture portions may further include an edge 2058 and a protrusion or rib 2057 extending downwardly (e.g., proximately and downwardly) from the edge 2058. The edge 2058 and rib 2057 may extend parallel, or more generally, substantially parallel or approximately parallel, to the boundary between the spanning section 2030 and the individual shoulder 2032. In other words, the edge 2058 and rib 2057 may extend perpendicular, or more generally, substantially perpendicular or approximately perpendicular, to the longitudinal or longitudinal axis of the body 2022. Additionally, the inner aperture 2056, when present, may reduce the area or volume of the outer portion of the spanning section 2030 in a manner that enhances the deformability of the outer portion of the spanning section. Repeating at least in part from above, each capture portion may include a protrusion 2057 on the underside of the arch 2028, with the protrusion or rib 2060 extending outwardly from or adjacent the edge 2058.

[0103] The inner hole 2056 can be omitted and / or the body 2022 can have one or more other holes formed therein or through it. For example, the outer hole 2059 can extend through the foot plate or flange 2026. Referring to the exploded view of FIG. 17F, the adhesive layer 2038, 2040 and the inner sheet 2036 can further include a lower hole 2027. The lower hole 2027 can open to the outer hole 2059, which can also extend outwardly to open at the outer edge of the adhesive layer 2038, 2040 and the inner sheet 1536. The outer hole 2059 can have any suitable shape. For example, the outer hole 2059 can be generally polygonal or generally rectangular. The lower hole 2027 can be complementary shaped to the outer hole 2059.

[0104] 17F, in addition to depicting the tissue bridge 2020 in a disassembled configuration, further depicts the tissue bridge 2020 disassembled from the diagrammatically depicted sections of the release liner 2062 and associated adhesive 2064. As an example, after the tissue bridge 2020 is manufactured, or as part of the manufacturing process for the tissue bridge, the tissue bridge, more specifically, the outer sheet 2034, can be releasably mounted onto an upper surface of the release liner 2062 via the outer adhesive layer 2042. Additionally, a lower surface of a portion of the release liner 2062 can be fixedly mounted to a support (e.g., a tray) via the adhesive 2064. The release liner 2062 can be, for example, a release-coated paper or plastic-based film sheet that is engaged against the outer adhesive layer 2042 such that the tissue bridge 2020 is releasably mounted onto the release liner. The release liner 2062 can include a series of disconnection lines 2136. Each line of disruption 2136 can comprise one or more cuts, slits, frangible lines, perforations, and / or overlapping and / or sequential combinations thereof to at least partially define a flap 2138 in the release liner 2062. The lines of disruption 2136 can be configured in a variety of patterns. In an eleventh embodiment, each line of disruption 2136 extends partially around the foot pad 2024 that is mounted to the flap 2138 defined by the line of disruption, with the opposite end of the line of disruption 2136 extending underneath the foot pad. The lines of disruption 2136 can be formed as part of a cutting (e.g., die cutting) step or equivalent such that the lines of disruption 2136 (e.g., slits, perforations, or other suitable cuts) can extend at least partially into one or more layers of the foot pad 2024. As a more specific example, the line of disruption 2136 or an extension thereof, or the like, may extend into the outer adhesive layer 2040 and the outer sheet 2034. Similarly, perforations or additional lines of disruption 2137 (e.g., perforations arranged in series) can be defined in the outer sheet 2034 and / or the release liner 2062.The adhesive 2064 is typically arranged in a pattern such that the adhesive is omitted from between the flap 2138 and the respective portion of the tray in the release liner 2062 so that the flap can be moved relative to the remainder of the release liner. In this regard, the adhesive 2064 can be applied in any suitable pattern. For example, with respect to the representative flap 2138, the adhesive 2064 can extend along at least one of the edges of the flap without adhering the flap to an associated tray or the like.

[0105] For example, like the first embodiment and at least some of the other embodiments, the tissue bridge 2020 of the eleventh embodiment can be configured such that each flange 2026 has opposing upper and lower surfaces, each of which is greater than a thickness defined between the upper and lower surfaces of the flange, each foot pad 2024 has opposing upper and lower surfaces, each of which is greater than a thickness defined between the upper and lower surfaces of the foot pad, and with respect to each flange 2026 and its respective foot pad 2024 connected thereto, the upper surface of the foot pad and the lower surface of the flange can face toward each other, can be superimposed on each other, can be parallel (e.g., approximately parallel) to each other, and / or can be directly connected to each other by an inner adhesive layer 2038 positioned therebetween.

[0106] It is contemplated that the configuration (e.g., size) of the tissue bridge 2020 may be adjusted such that the tissue bridge may be well suited to a variety of different circumstances. Nevertheless, for purposes of facilitating comprehension, but not for purposes of limiting the scope of the present invention, some example dimensions and ratios are provided in the Detailed Description section of this disclosure. For example, in FIG. 17B, the length "L1" and width "W1" of the upper and lower surfaces of the flange 2026 are specified. In FIG. 17C, the thickness "T" defined between the upper and lower surfaces of the flange 2026 is specified. The flange thickness T is less than the flange length L1 and width W1. Also, in FIG. 17B, the width "W2" of the central spanning section 2030 of the arch 2028 is specified, which is less than the width W1 of the flange 2026. As one example, the overall length of tissue bridge 2020 in its relaxed state (i.e., at its rest configuration) can be within the range of about 1 inch (about 25 mm) to about 1.6 inches (about 41 mm), more specifically, about 1.3 inches (about 33 mm), the length L1 of the upper and lower surfaces of flange 2026 can be within the range of about 0.22 inches (about 5.6 mm) to about 0.35 inches (about 8.9 mm), more specifically, about 0.28 inches (about 7.1 mm), and the width W1 of the upper and lower surfaces of flange 2026 can be within the range of about 0.3 inches (about 7.6 mm) to about 0. 5 inches (about 12.7 mm), more specifically about 0.4 inches (about 10.2 mm), a flange thickness T defined between the upper and lower surfaces of the flange 2026 can be in the range of about 0.016 inches (about 0.41 mm) to about 0.024 inches (about 0.61 mm), more specifically about 0.02 inches (about 0.51 mm), and a width W2 of the arch center spanning section 2030 can be in the range of about 0.2 inches (about 5.1 mm) to about 0.3 inches (about 7.6 mm), more specifically about 0.25 inches (about 6.3 mm). Thus, the upper and lower surfaces of the flange 2026 (e.g., flange length L1 and / or width W1) can be at least two, several, or many times greater than the thickness T defined between the upper and lower surfaces of the flange. Other dimensions and / or ratios are within the scope of the present disclosure.

[0107] In other embodiments, the overall length of tissue bridge 2020 in its relaxed state (i.e., at its rest configuration) can be within the range of about 0.65 inches (about 16 mm) to about 3.5 inches (about 88 mm), more specifically, about 1.3 inches (about 33 mm), the length L1 of the upper and lower surfaces of flange 2026 can be within the range of about 0.14 inches (about 3.6 mm) to about 0.66 inches (about 16.7 mm), more specifically, about 0.28 inches (about 7.1 mm), and the width W1 of the upper and lower surfaces of flange 2026 can be within the range of about 0.2 inches (about 4.9 mm) to about 0. 9 inches (about 23.8 mm), more specifically about 0.4 inches (about 10.2 mm), the flange thickness T defined between the upper and lower surfaces of the flange 2026 can be in the range of about 0.010 inches (about 0.27 mm) to about 0.045 inches (about 1.14 mm), more specifically about 0.02 inches (about 0.51 mm), and the width W2 of the arch center spanning section 2030 can be in the range of about 0.13 inches (about 3.3 mm) to about 0.56 inches (about 14.3 mm), more specifically about 0.25 inches (about 6.3 mm). Other dimensions and / or ratios are within the scope of this disclosure.

[0108] 17B, ​​the arch 2028 can have a length "L2" of about 0.7 inches (about 17.8 mm) while the tissue bridge 2020 is in its relaxed state. In the relaxed state of the tissue bridge 2020, the ratio of the arch length L2 to the total length of the tissue bridge (L1+L2+L1) (i.e., L2 divided by (L1+L2+L1)) can range from greater than 0.35 to less than 0.75, and more specifically, can be about 0.3. In the relaxed state of the tissue bridge 2020, the ratio of the arch length L2 to the flange length L1 (i.e., L2 divided by L1) can range from greater than 1 to less than 5, and more specifically, can be about 0.23. The ratio of the flange length L1 to the flange width W1 (i.e., L1 divided by W1) can range from greater than 0.5 to less than 3, and more specifically, can be about 0.77. Other dimensions and / or ratios are within the scope of this disclosure.

[0109] Similarly (e.g., measured in the same directions as indicated by the lengths L1, L2, widths W1, W2, and thickness T designated in FIGS. 17B and 17C), the tissue bridge 2020 of the eleventh embodiment can be configured such that each foot pad 2024 has opposing upper and lower surfaces that are each greater than a thickness defined between the upper and lower surfaces of the foot pad. As an example, the thickness defined between the upper and lower surfaces of each foot pad 2024 can be within a range of about 0.01 inches (about 0.25 mm) to about 0.014 inches (about 0.36 mm), and more specifically, about 0.012 inches (about 0.3 mm). The upper and lower surfaces of each foot pad 2024 can be at least two, several, or many times greater than the thickness defined between the upper and lower surfaces of the foot pad. In one embodiment, each inner sheet 2036 can be a biaxially oriented polyethylene terephthalate film having a thickness within the range of about 0.0025 inches (about 0.063 mm) to about 0.015 inches (about 0.38 mm), and more specifically, about 0.005 inches (about 0.13 mm). With respect to the machine and cross directions shown in FIG. 17B, in one embodiment, for each inner sheet 2036, the length is at least twice its width, although other ratios may exist. Various other configurations (e.g., dimensions and / or ratios) are within the scope of the present disclosure.

[0110] 17B, ​​in a top view of the tissue bridge 2020, the ratio of the area of ​​the outer holes 2059 (if present) to the area of ​​the flange 2026 not counting the holes (i.e., the area of ​​the outer holes 2059 divided by the area of ​​the flange 2026 not counting the holes) can range from greater than 1 to less than 3. Other dimensions and / or ratios are within the scope of the present disclosure.

[0111] 17C, for tissue bridge 2020 to be used on areas of skin with minimal skin eversion, angle "A1" between the surface abutting the top of arch 2028 and flange 2026 while the tissue bridge is in its relaxed state may be within the range of about 15 degrees to about 19 degrees, more specifically about 17 degrees. In another embodiment, angle A1 may be within the range of about 7 degrees to about 27 degrees, more specifically about 17 degrees, while the tissue bridge is in its relaxed state. For areas of skin with greater or lesser eversion, angle A1 may be adjusted to obtain the desired level of skin eversion. Other angles are within the scope of the present disclosure.

[0112] 17D, for each intermediate strut 2048, the length "L3" of the intermediate strut can be less than the half-length "L4" of the arch 2028 in its relaxed state. More specifically, the ratio of the length L3 of the intermediate strut 2048 to the half-length L4 of the arch 2028 (i.e., L3 divided by L4) can be in the range of greater than 0.3 to less than 1 while the tissue bridge 2020 is in its relaxed state. Other dimensions and / or ratios are within the scope of the present disclosure.

[0113] 17B, ​​in a top view of the tissue bridge 2020, the side edges of the arch 2028 can each have a radius of curvature of about 0.375 inches (about 9.5 mm). The ratio of this radius of curvature of the arch 2028 to the length L3 (FIG. 17D) of the middle strut 2048 (i.e., the radius of curvature of the arch 2028 divided by the length L3) can be in the range of greater than 0.18 to less than 0.6, and more specifically, can be about 0.3. Other dimensions and / or ratios are within the scope of the present disclosure.

[0114] 17D, the distance "D1" between adjacent ends of the middle struts 2048 can be within the range of about 0.04 inches (about 1 mm) to about 0.7 inches (about 18 mm), and more specifically, can be about 0.16 inches (about 4 mm). Other dimensions and / or ratios are within the scope of the present disclosure.

[0115] 18A-18D depict an applicator mechanism in the form of an applicator tool 2080 that may be used to manipulate, for example, a tissue bridge 2020 or another suitable medical article, for example, as part of a method of mounting a tissue bridge to tissue (e.g., a patient's skin) according to an eleventh embodiment. For example, the applicator tool 2080 may include one or more parts or features that may be spaced apart from one another and configured to releasably engage the tissue bridge 2020. In the eleventh embodiment, the one or more parts or features of the applicator tool 2080 that are configured to engage the tissue bridge 2020 may comprise at least one bearing or contact surface 2082 and / or one or more capturing portions 2084. For example, the contact surface 2082 may be positioned between the capturing portions 2084. The applicator tool 2080 may further include a reconfigurable frame that interconnects the contact surface 2082 and the capturing portions 2084.

[0116] The frame of the applicator tool 2080 can include a reconfigurable linkage (e.g., one or more links 2086) interconnecting the contact surface 2082 and the capturing portion 2084. The frame of the applicator tool 2080 can further include one or more levers 2088 comprising the link 2086 and / or extending upwardly therefrom. The applicator tool 2080 can be configured such that when the bearing or contact surface 2082 faces downward, the capturing portion 2084 extends downward from the linkage (e.g., link 2086) and the lever 2088 extends upward from the linkage. The link 2086 and lever 2088 can be cooperatively configured such that in response to at least a portion of the capturing portions 2084 moving away from one another and at least a portion of the lever 2088 being moved toward one another, as will be discussed in more detail below, the contact surface 2082 moves toward a line extending from one of the capturing portions 2084 to the other.

[0117] The contact surface 2082 may be a lower end surface of a pivotable joint (e.g., a flexible joint, a living hinge (e.g., an area of ​​reduced thickness), or the like) between the links 2086. The captured portion 2084 may include a shank 2090 extending from an upper end of the link 2086 and / or a lower end of the lever 2088. The link 2086 may be referred to as a lower section of the lever 2088. Each captured portion 2084 may further include at least one outer projection 2092 extending outwardly from a lower end of the shank 2090 in a direction that is transverse to the length of the shank. The outer projections 2092 may point outwardly from one another. Each outer projection 2092 may be generally rectangular and include an outer tip 2091 and an engagement shoulder 2093. An acute angle may be defined between the engagement surface 2093 and the shank 2090. The link 2086 and the lever 2088 can be cooperatively configured such that in response to at least a portion of the lever 2088 being moved toward one another, the outer projections 2092 move away from one another.

[0118] The applicator tool 2080 can optionally include an additional protrusion 2095 (e.g., a stabilizing and / or alignment protrusion) extending outwardly from the opposite side of the shank 2090. The distance between the engagement shoulder 2093 and the nearest shoulder of the stabilizing and / or alignment protrusion 2095 can be approximately equal to or slightly greater than the thickness of the spanning section 2030 of the tissue bridge 2020. As another example, the distance between the engagement shoulder 2093 and the nearest shoulder / underside of the stabilizing and / or alignment protrusion 2095 can be within a range of about 1 to about 3.5 times the thickness of the spanning section 2030 of the tissue bridge 2020.

[0119] The links 2086 can extend diagonally, outwardly, and downwardly, respectively, from the contact surface 2082 to an upper portion of the shank 2090. The levers 2088 can extend diagonally, outwardly, and upwardly, respectively, from the upper portion of the shank 2090.

[0120] The lever 2088 can define or include a handle 2094. For example, in the embodiment depicted in FIGS. 18A-18D, the handle 2094 can be an inwardly concave, arcuate, and / or concave section of the lever 2088, although differently configured handles are within the scope of this disclosure. As an example, FIG. 18B depicts two differently configured handles 2094, each having an outer stop surface 2097 that extends transversely to the length of the applicator tool 2080 in a manner that seeks to limit a user's fingers from inadvertently sliding downwardly out of the handle. The stop surface 2097 can be the upper surface of a post or other suitable protrusion. As another example, the stop surface 2097 can be the lower portion of a concave, arcuate, or otherwise suitable curved surface. The handle 2094 can also include knurling, for example, configured in a manner that seeks to limit a user's fingers from inadvertently sliding downwardly out of the handle. As depicted in FIGS. 18A-18D, the knurling can be in the form of protrusions or hemispherical projections, although other features can also be included to limit the user's fingers from inadvertently sliding downwardly out of the handle.

[0121] Optionally, the levers 2088 may be lower levers 2088 that extend diagonally upward from (e.g., from adjacent to) the contact surface 2082 and / or the capture portion 2084 to upper levers 2089. The upper levers 2089 may be joined to one another at their upper ends. The upper connection between the upper levers 2089 may be a pivotable joint between the upper levers 2089 (e.g., a flexible joint, a living hinge (e.g., area of ​​reduced thickness), or the like). Alternatively, the upper levers 2089 may be omitted.

[0122] The applicator tool 2080 may be an injection molded unitary (e.g., single-piece) article formed from an injection moldable, generally resilient material, such as, but not limited to, polycarbonate, polyethylene, or any other suitable injection moldable material. Alternatively, the applicator tool 2080 may be made from metal, metal alloy, steel, or any other suitable material that may allow for resterilization. Hinges (e.g., at the junctions between the individual portions of the levers 2088, 2089 and / or the links 2086) or other suitable connections may be included in the applicator tool 2080 that allow for relative movement between sub-components, such as when the applicator tool is made from a relatively rigid material. As additional examples, a variety of different connections, levers, and handles of the applicator tool 2088 are also within the scope of this disclosure.

[0123] According to an example of the eleventh embodiment depicted in FIGS. 18D-20L, the tissue bridge 2020 and the applicator tool 2080 are cooperatively configured such that the applicator tool can be releasably engaged to the tissue bridge and used to manipulate the tissue bridge as part of a method of mounting the tissue bridge to tissue. For example, FIG. 18D depicts a bearing or contact surface 2082 in opposite facing relationship to the upper surface of the arch 2028 and a shank 2090 extending through the inner bore 2056. In the configuration of FIG. 18D, the outer projection 2092 (FIGS. 18A-18C) is hidden from view within the receptacle 2052. More generally, the applicator tool 2080 and the capturing portions of the tissue bridge 2020, respectively, are mutually engaged in FIG. 18D. However, a variety of differently configured capturing portions are within the scope of the present disclosure.

[0124] 19A-19F, a method of using an applicator tool 2080 to remove a tissue bridge 2020 from a tray 122 according to an eleventh embodiment will now be described. With reference to FIG. 19A, initially, the applicator tool 2080 (e.g., in its undeformed or resting configuration) can be engaged against the tissue bridge 2020 (e.g., in its undeformed or resting configuration) via a relative movement (e.g., movement of the applicator tool towards a tissue bridge mounted on a release liner 2062 in the tray) that causes increased closure between the applicator tool 2080 and the tray 122. In the eleventh embodiment, the applicator tool 2080 is resilient and thus biased towards its undeformed or resting configuration.

[0125] 19A and 19B, in response to the relative movement, the outer projection 2092 of the tool capture portion 2084 can enter the receptacle 2052 via the inner aperture 2056 (FIG. 17A). That is, the outer projection 2092 can enter the receptacle 2052 by advancing through the inner aperture 2056. For example, the applicator tool 2080 can be pushed downward such that the outer projection 2092 of the tool capture portion 2084 enters the receptacle 2052 via the inner aperture 2056 and, optionally, also engages the tissue bridge 2020 in such a manner that the tool contact surface 2082 engages or is proximate to the central apex of the arch 2028 or any other suitable surface. In some embodiments, the tool contact surface 2082 may not engage (e.g., may never engage) the tissue bridge 2020.

[0126] The applicator tool 2080 may be in its non-deformed or stationary configuration throughout the step of the outer projections 2092 of the tool capture portion 2084 entering the receptacle 2052 via the inner bore 2056. As another example, the distance between the tips of the outer projections 2092 may exceed the distance between the bore edges 2058 ( FIG. 17B ) such that the outer projections 2092 "snap" into the inner bore 2056 and / or receptacle 2052, optionally releasably contained within the receptacle via an interference fit or the like. The outward movement of the outer projections 2092 relative to one another, associated with "snapping", is represented diagrammatically by a pair of arrows in FIG. 19C .

[0127] In an eleventh embodiment, the inner aperture 2056 is larger than the outer projection 2092 so that the outer projection may pass through the inner aperture. When measured in the same direction as indicated by widths W1, W2 in FIG. 17B, the width of the outer projection 2092 (e.g., the width of the engagement shoulder 2093) may be within a range of about less than 1 to about 0.4 times the width (or length) of the edge 2058 of the arch 2028 that partially defines the inner aperture 2056.

[0128] The relative movement causing increased closure between the applicator tool 2080 and the tray 122 may be facilitated by a user manually holding the lever 2088 and / or handle 2094 (FIGS. 18A-18C) of the applicator tool and moving the applicator tool toward the tissue bridge 2020 in the tray, or the tissue bridge may be supported by any other suitable surface. With reference to FIG. 19B, the outer projections 2092 may engage respective surfaces of the middle post 2048 in response to the relative movement causing increased closure between the applicator tool 2080 and the tray 122. As a more specific example depicted in FIG. 19C, an engagement shoulder or surface 2093 of the tool 2080 may engage an engagement surface or rib 2057 of the tissue bridge 2020.

[0129] 19C and 19D configurations successively, the relative movement causing increased closure between the applicator tool 2080 and the tray 122 can continue and the handles 2094 can be manually squeezed together (e.g., pushed toward each other) such that the applicator tool reconfigures toward its actuated or deformed configuration and applies a deforming force to the tissue bridge 2020. When the applicator tool 2080 is simultaneously pushed, for example with a greater force against the tissue bridge 2020, further deforming toward its deformed configuration, the applicator tool applies a force against the tissue bridge 2020 such that the tissue bridge is deformed in response toward its distorted, deformed, or extended configuration. For example, the applicator tool 2080 can simultaneously apply a downward force via the contact surface 2082 and a laterally outward force via the capture portion 2084.

[0130] 19C, the distance between the middle strut 2048 and the inner hole 2056 (FIG. 17A) can be approximately the same as or less than the distance between the engagement shoulder 2093 and the outer tip 2091 of the outer projection 2092. As a result, the outer projection 2092 (e.g., outer tip 2091) can engage the middle struts 2048 and deflect them outward / downward, for example, as shown in FIG. 19C. As another example, the distance between the engagement shoulder 2093 and the outer tip 2091 of the outer projection 2092 can be within about 1-2 times the distance between the middle strut 2048 and the inner hole 2056 in the relaxed configuration of the tissue bridge 2020.

[0131] 19C, as the applicator tool 2080 of the eleventh embodiment is transitioned from its undeformed or resting configuration (e.g., FIG. 19C) to its actuated or deformed configuration (e.g., FIG. 19E), each side of the applicator tool and associated tissue bridge 2020 can deform in a generally symmetrical manner. For example, in FIG. 19C, distance "D2" diagrammatically depicts the range of travel of the junction between adjacent links 2086 and shanks 2090 that occurs during the transition of the applicator tool 2080 from its undeformed or resting configuration to its actuated or deformed configuration, or vice versa, where the range of travel D2 can be approximately 0.45 inches (11.5 mm). As another example, distance "D3" graphically depicts the distance that the contact point or area between engagement rib 2057 and engagement shoulder 2093 travels during transition of applicator tool 2080 from its undeformed or resting configuration to its actuated or deformed configuration, or vice versa, and distance D3 may be approximately 2.1 inches (5.4 mm).

[0132] As depicted diagrammatically in FIG. 19C, a triangle side or distance "S1" is defined between the center point of the top surface of the tissue bridge arch 2028 and the junction of the link 2086 and the shank 2090. A triangle side or distance "S2" is defined between the junction of the link 2086 and the shank 2090 and the contact point or area between the engagement rib 2057 and the engagement shoulder 2093. An angle "A2" defined between the triangle side "S3" and the triangle side S2 may be less than 120 degrees, more specifically, about 93 degrees. The ratio of the distance S1 to the distance S2 (i.e., S1 divided by S2) may be in the range of about 1.0 to about 1.4, or may be in the range of about 1.1 to about 1.2, more specifically, about 1.14.

[0133] In the transition from the configuration of FIG. 19C to the configuration of FIG. 19D , the outer portion of the foot pad 2024 has moved, more specifically, pivoted, away from the tray outer section 132. As discussed above, the release liner flap 2138 can be attached to the outer portion of the foot pad 2024 via the outer adhesive layer 2042. Thus, the flap 2138 is carried by and can pivot therewith. Thus, the flap 2138 pivots outwardly relative to the remainder of the release liner 2062, which remains fixedly mounted to the tray base panel 2124. That is, the flap 2138 can pivot outwardly relative to (e.g., at least partially peeled away from) the remainder of the release liner 2062 as well as the tray 122 in response to respective movements, reconfigurations, and / or the like of the tissue bridge 2020 as well as the applicator tool 2080. In the eleventh embodiment, the release liner 2062 is a support that supports the tissue bridge 2020, and each flap 2138 can be referred to as a first section of the support, and the remaining portion of the release liner 2062 and / or the tray 122 can be referred to as a second section of the support or the like.

[0134] 19C to the configuration of FIG. 19D , the outer protrusions 2092 urge (e.g., bias) the middle post 2048 downwardly toward the recessed central section 2130 of the tray 122. That is, in an embodiment, the middle post 2048 can pivot downwardly relative to the remainder of the foot pad 2024 in response to the respective movement, reconfiguration, and / or the like, of the tissue bridge 2020 and the applicator tool 2080.

[0135] 19C-19F, the applicator tool 2080 and tissue bridge 2020 can be cooperatively configured and engaged with one another in a predetermined manner such that in response to the handles 2094 being manually squeezed or pushed closer to one another, at least the lower portions of the tool capturing portions 2084 can be moved further away from one another and the contact surfaces 2082 can move toward a line between the capturing portions 2084, this movement of the applicator tool 2080 urges the tissue bridge 2020 into its fully deformed or extended configuration, an example of which is shown in FIG. 19F. For example, the manual inward force applied to opposite sides of the handles 2094 to achieve this configuration can be in the range of greater than 0.2 pounds of force (0.89 Newtons) to less than 2 pounds of force (8.9 Newtons).

[0136] 19E , the release liner 2062 typically separates completely from the tissue bridge 2020 and the flaps 2138 can pivot / retract to their original positions in response to the relative movement causing an increased distance between the applicator tool 2080 and the tray 122. The release liner 2062 typically separates completely from the tissue bridge 2020 in a manner that fully exposes the outer adhesive layer 2042 (e.g., patient contact adhesive) such that there is no remnant of the release liner 2062 adhered to the tissue bridge and the outer adhesive layer is ready to be used to secure the tissue bridge to tissue, such as the patient's skin.

[0137] 19F, the tissue bridge 2020 and applicator tool 2080 are engaged with one another and both are in their deformed configurations such that the tissue bridge is firmly grasped or otherwise held by the applicator tool such that when the applicator tool is manually released from the tray 122, the applicator tool carries the tissue bridge away from the tray. While the tissue bridge 2020 is held firmly by the applicator tool 2080, the applicator tool can be used to apply the tissue bridge to tissue, such as the patient's skin.

[0138] At least Figures 19C-19E may be characterized as diagrammatically depicting stretching of the relief liner 2062. However, any such stretching may be avoided by including lines of discontinuity 2063 (e.g., cuts, slits, or tear lines) between individual sections of the relief liner 2062, for example, as shown in Figure 19G. As another example depicted in Figure 19H, the length of the portion of the relief liner 2062 positioned between the inner ends of the foot pads 2024 may exceed the distance between the inner ends of the foot pads 2024. The excess length of the portion of the relief liner 2062 between the inner ends of the foot pads 2024 may be in the form of a bulge or overlapping section of the relief liner 2062 or the like.

[0139] 19I-19L, a method of using an applicator tool 2080 to apply a tissue bridge 2020 to tissue 2152 on either side of an incision 2150 in a patient's skin 2152 according to an eleventh embodiment will now be described. FIG. 19I diagrammatically depicts the initially spaced edges of the incision 2150 with dashed lines 2154, and solid lines 2156 diagrammatically depict that the edges of the incision may be manually pushed together prior to applying the tissue bridge 220 across the incision. The applicator tool 2080 holding the tissue bridge 2020 can be moved towards the incision 2150 such that the tissue bridge 2020 extends laterally, more specifically, generally perpendicular to the length of the incision 2150, and first contact between the tissue bridge and the tissue or skin 2152 occurs at the inner end sections or portions of the middle struts 2048 on either side of the incision. 19J, the applicator tool 2080 can continue to be pushed closer to the incision 2150 such that the inner portions of the middle struts 2048 begin to be adhered to the skin 152 by the outer adhesive layer 2042 (e.g., patient contact adhesive). For example, the transmission of force from the applicator tool 2080, via the capture portion 2084, to the middle struts 2048 can engage the pressure sensitive adhesive layer 2042 against the tissue 2152 with sufficient force to adhere the inner portions of the middle struts 2048 to the tissue 2152 on either side of the incision 2150. Then, as depicted at least in part in FIG. 19K, for example, the manual force on the handle 2094 of the applicator tool 2080 can be reduced such that the tissue bridge 2020 returns towards its resting configuration and the middle struts 2048 move closer together, pushing the portions of the tissue 2152 to which they are adhered towards each other. Then, in response to the tissue bridge 2020 moving further back towards its resting configuration, the reconfiguration of the tissue bridge causes the outer portion of the foot pad 2024 to move or pivot downwardly into contact with the tissue 2152 on the opposite side of the incision 2150. In one embodiment, this contact between the outer portion of the foot pad 2024 and the tissue 2152 on the opposite side of the incision 2150 can occur with sufficient force to cause the pressure sensitive adhesive layer 2042 to firmly adhere the outer portion of the foot pad 2024 to the tissue 2152 on the opposite side of the incision 2150.

[0140] According to the eleventh embodiment, the inner portion of the middle strut 2048 adhesively mounts to the tissue 2152 while the tissue bridge 2020 is in its deformed or extended configuration, and then as the tissue bridge 2020 moves back towards its rest configuration and reaches an intermediate configuration between the extended and rest configurations, the remaining or outer portion of the foot pad 2024 adhesively mounts to the tissue. When the tissue bridge 2020 is initially engaged against the tissue 2152, the first contact and adhesive mounting point to the tissue may be at the inner end section or portion of the middle strut 2048, and this mounting may occur while the middle strut is being pushed downwardly through the applicator tool 2080. In an eleventh embodiment, as the deformation force being applied to the tissue bridge 2020 by the applicator tool 2080 is reduced, the middle struts 2048 move or rotate inwardly and thus draw about the tissue 2152 to which they are adhesively mounted, this action by the middle struts 2048 occurring before the outer portions of the foot pads 2024 are adhesively attached to the tissue. At this intermediate point, where the middle struts 2048 are at least partially attached to the tissue 2152 and moving inwardly, and the outer portions of the foot pads 2024 are not yet attached to the tissue, the shear stress and / or strain on the given tissue (i.e., the tissue to the side of the most lateral contact point between the middle struts and the tissue) is distributed laterally in a graded manner. Then, when the lateral or outer portions of the foot pad 2024 are pressed down and attached to the tissue 2152, the selected tissue under and at the lateral or outer edges of the foot pad 2024 is secured (e.g., glued to the foot pad) in such a state that stresses and / or strains within the selected tissue are distributed laterally in a graduated manner, which tends to prevent sudden high shear stresses at the lateral edges (e.g., opposite ends) of the tissue bridge 2020.

[0141] 19L, the applicator tool 2080 can then be removed from the tissue bridge 2020 such that the tissue bridge remains mounted across the incision 2150, and the applicator tool may then be used to place another tissue bridge. In addition, the user can manually press down on the foot pad 2024 with, for example, their finger 2157 with sufficient force to ensure that the pressure sensitive adhesive layer 2042 firmly adheres the foot pad 2024 to the tissue 2152 on the other side of the incision 2150. According to an eleventh embodiment, the tissue bridge 2020 can be mounted to the tissue 2152 in a manner such that the tissue bridge and tissue apply a force against each other, and the force applied by the tissue typically limits the tissue bridge from fully returning to its resting configuration. As a result, the tissue bridge 2020 applies a compressive force via the foot pads 2024 to the tissue 2152 in a manner that may, for example, reduce tension in the tissue, help close the wound 2150, prevent wound reopening, and / or prevent disfiguring (e.g., enlargement) of the scar. In the example shown in FIG. 191, the tissue 2152 adjacent the scar and / or wound 2150 bulges into a central area across which the arch 2028 extends.

[0142] The tissue bridge 2020, the release liner 2062, and the applicator tool 2080 can be configured differently than discussed above. For example, one or more of the layers of the tissue bridge 2020 can be configured differently than discussed above. As a more specific example, in the variation of the tissue bridge 2020 depicted in FIGS. 20A-20D, the inner sheet 2036 and the intermediate adhesive layer 2040 can each include opposite outwardly extending lateral extensions 2037, 2041. Thus, the inner sheet 2036, the intermediate adhesive layer 2040, and the foot pad 2024 are wider in the inward direction and taper in the outward direction such that the middle strut 2048 section of the foot pad is wider than the outer section of the foot pad. The outer sheet 2034 and the outer adhesive layer 2042 can each be generally in the form of a quadrilateral, a trapezoid, an isosceles trapezoid, or any other suitable shape.

[0143] 20D, in some version embodiments of the present disclosure, the release liner 2062 may not be associated (e.g., mounted) to any tray 122 (FIGS. 18A-18D). For example, with respect to the version depicted in FIG. 20D, when the tissue bridge 2020 is fully assembled on the release liner 2062, at least a portion of the release liner may then be removed and the tissue bridge 2020 may then be applied by hand (e.g., without the use of an applicator). In this embodiment, a user may manually grasp and pull a tab 2466 defined in the release liner 2062 between a pair of frangible lines (e.g., tear lines). The tab 2466 may be part of a central section 2462 of the release liner 2062 that is at least partially defined between the lines of severance. An outer release liner portion 2464 may be manually grasped and used to mount the tissue bridge 2020 to tissue.

[0144] As an additional example, Figures 21 and 22 depict a variation of the applicator tool 2080 where the outer protrusion 2092 is configured differently and the stabilizing and / or alignment protrusion 2095 can optionally be omitted. For example, in Figure 21, the engagement shoulder 2093 can be defined at least in part by a bend in the shank 2090. As another example, in Figure 22, the outer tip 2091 and the engagement shoulder 2093 are relatively rounded.

[0145] 23A-23C depict an applicator tool 2080 according to a twelfth embodiment, with the tissue bridge 2020 depicted diagrammatically in dashed lines in FIGS. 23B and 23C. The applicator tool 2080 of the twelfth embodiment includes parts or features that are spaced apart from one another and configured to releasably engage the tissue bridge 2020. In the twelfth embodiment, the parts or features of the applicator tool 2080 that are configured to engage the tissue bridge 2020 include a bearing or contact surface 2082 and a capturing portion 2084. For example, the contact surface 2082 can be positioned between the capturing portions 2084. The applicator tool 2080 of the twelfth embodiment further includes a reconfigurable frame that interconnects the contact surface 2082 and the capturing portion 2084.

[0146] 23A, the frame of the applicator tool 2080 of the twelfth embodiment includes reconfigurable links (e.g., links 2086A, 2086B) interconnecting the contact surface 2082 and the capture portion 2084. The capture portion 2084 extends downwardly from the lever 2088 and / or handle 2094 and / or links (e.g., link 2086A), and the lever 2088 and / or handle 2094 extend upwardly from at least some of the links. The links 2086A are interconnected via one or more additional links, such as link 2086B, which forms a hinge or hinge-like member (e.g., a pivotable joint, a flexible joint, a living hinge (e.g., an area of ​​reduced thickness), or the like). The contact surface 2082 may be the underside of a protrusion extending outwardly from a lower end section of the link 2086A. The links 2086A, 2086B and the lever 2088 and / or handle 2094 can be cooperatively configured such that at least the lower portions of the capturing portions 2084 move away from one another and the contact surface 2082 moves toward a line extending from one of the capturing portions 2084 to the other in response to at least a portion of the lever 2088 and / or handle 2094 being moved toward one another.

[0147] In the version of the twelfth embodiment depicted in Figures 23B and 23C, the capture portion 2084 of the applicator tool 2080 is configured to mate with the tissue bridge outer hole 2059 (Figure 17A), respectively, as discussed above with reference to the ninth embodiment, for example. Similarly, the lower ends of the links 2086A are configured to mate with (e.g., extend into and / or through) the tissue bridge inner hole 2056 (Figure 17A), respectively. The bearing or contact surface 2082 is configured to be in opposing facing relationship with (e.g., in opposing facing contact with) the upper surface of the tissue bridge arch 2028. Additionally or alternatively, the lower surfaces of the links 2086A and / or 2086B can be configured to be in opposing facing relationship with (e.g., in opposing facing contact with) the upper surface of the tissue bridge arch 2028. For example, Figures 24A-24C depict a thirteenth embodiment applicator tool 2080 that is like the twelfth embodiment applicator tool, except that, for example, the bearing or contact surface 2082 is the underside of a link 2086B that is configured to be in opposing facing relationship with (e.g., in opposing facing contact with) the upper surface of the tissue bridge arch 2028.

[0148] According to a fourteenth embodiment, Figs. 25A-25C depict the applicator tool 2380 receiving the tissue bridge 2020, and Fig. 25C depicts the applicator tool 2380 and tissue bridge 2020 both engaged together in their deformed configurations such that the tissue bridge is firmly gripped or otherwise held by the applicator tool. The capturing portion 2384 comprises a receptacle, more specifically an inwardly opening hole or slot, which may be defined between a piece, plate, slab, or other suitable feature. In the fourteenth embodiment, the opposite ends of the tissue bridge 2020 each extend into the inwardly opening hole or slot of the capturing portion 2384. The thickness of the slot of the capturing portion 2384 may be slightly greater than the thickness of the opposite end section of the tissue bridge 2020. The handle 2394 may have a loop, partial loop, and / or other suitable feature for receiving a finger of an operator of the tool 2380, and optionally another finger may be pressed downward onto a platform and / or other suitable feature positioned along the linkage (e.g., linkages 2186A, 1186B).

[0149] The applicator tool 2380 can have a first body with a first lever 2388 connected to a first capturing portion 2384 and a second body with a second lever 2388 connected to a second capturing portion 2384. With reference to Figures 25B and 25C, a reconfigurable linkage (e.g., linkages 2186A, 2186B) interconnects the first and second bodies and can be configured (e.g., simultaneously) such that the first and second bodies are pivotable relative to one another about first and second axes 2371, 2372, respectively, and the first and second axes 2371, 2372 are movable toward and away from one another.

[0150] 25A-25C , the release or peel liner mounting straps 2464 can each be mounted to the foot pad 1024 and positioned partially within a receptacle or slot in the capturing portion 2384 such that the patient contact adhesive is restricted from contacting the capturing portion 2384. An inner end of the mounting straps 2464 can include at least one folded over flap 2465.

[0151] As depicted in FIGS. 26A-C, the central link 2186A of the applicator tool 2380 can extend upward from the other links 2186B. A platform and / or other suitable feature at the top end of the central link 2186A can be pressed by a user as part of the process of deforming the tool 2380 and the tissue bridge 2020. As depicted in FIGS. 27A and 27B, at least some of the links (e.g., links 1186A, 1186B of FIGS. 25A-26C) can be omitted. With reference to FIGS. 28A and 28B, the inner end of the release strip 2464 can be pulled away from the inner portion of the foot pad 2024 to form a folded over flap 2465. The outer end section of the folded over flap 2465 can be secured (e.g., releasably) to the outer surface of the applicator tool 2380 using an adhesive 2381 and / or any other suitable fastening feature 2381.

[0152] 28C-29E, a method of using the applicator tool 2380 to apply a tissue bridge 2020 onto tissue 2052 including a wound 2150 according to a fourteenth embodiment will now be described. With reference to FIG. 28C, the applicator tool 2380 can be deformed or otherwise reconfigured by manually pivoting the capture portion 2384 via the lever 2088 and / or handle 2094 and / or any exterior suitable features (e.g., linkages) such that a deformation force is applied to the tissue bridge 2020. Then, with reference to FIG. 28D, the interior portion of the middle post 2048 can begin to adhere to the tissue 2052. After the middle post 2048 is at least partially attached to the tissue 2052, with the exterior portion of the foot pad 2024 not yet attached to the tissue, the lateral or outer portion of the foot pad 2024 can be released from the capture portion 2384 such that the release liner 2464 is removed from the foot pad 2024. The lateral or outer portions of the foot pad 2024 can be pressed down and adhered to the tissue 2052 .

[0153] 29A-29C, the tray 122, which may be configured to support one or more of the tissue bridges discussed above (e.g., tissue bridge 2020), can include or be associated with one or more attachment features (e.g., fasteners or the like) to facilitate attachment of the tray to a wide variety of suitable supports. For example, the tray 122 depicted in FIGS. 29A-29C includes one or more attachment features in the form of holes 4001 that extend through the tray and can be configured to receive fasteners, positions, and / or any other suitable features. The holes can extend through an outer peripheral flange or any other suitable portion of the tray 122, or the holes or other suitable attachment features can be associated with the tray in any other suitable manner.

[0154] 29A, 30, and 31, an attachment feature in the form of a strap 4002 with a fastener 4003 (e.g., a releasable hook-and-loop fastener (e.g., VELCRO®) or other suitable fastener) can extend through the hole 4001 and be used to mount the tray 122 to a structure. For example, the structure can be a user's arm 4004 (e.g., forearm and / or wrist) so that the user's hand can remain free for other purposes, such as to use one of the applicator tools discussed above or another suitable tool to retrieve the tissue bridge 2020 from the tray 122 and apply the tissue bridge accordingly. Other structures to which the tray 122 can be mounted include, for example, a body part of a user or patient, a surgical drape, a tray, and / or any other suitable structure. For example, the structure can be a user's finger or thumb, the back of the user's hand, the user's clothing, or any other suitable area or structure.

[0155] 32, the holes 4001 or other attachment features of the tray 122 can be used to mount the tray to other suitable supports. For example, FIG. 32 depicts the tray 122 with the tissue bridge 2020 of FIG. 30 with the fastening straps removed, and the tray disassembled from the mounting base 4005, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. The mounting base 4005 can include one or more attachment features in the form of protrusions 4006 or other suitable devices extending into the holes 4001 and for at least partially securing the tray 122 to the mounting base 4005. The tray 122 or the tray 122 mounted to the base 4004 can be seated on / supported by a tray, such as a Mayo stand tray or equivalent.

[0156] FIG. 33 depicts a tray 122 carrying a series of tissue bridges 2020 and having other types of fastening straps 4002 (e.g., elastic straps), although a variety of differently configured attachment features (e.g., fastening straps) and mounting bases are also within the scope of this disclosure.

[0157] 34 depicts a tray 122 with a tissue bridge 2020 disassembled from a mounting base 4005 comprising attachment features in the form of clips 4007 and fastening straps 4002, according to another embodiment of the present disclosure. The straps 4002 can be configured to removably mount the mounting base 4005 onto a user's arm 4004, and the clips 4007 can be configured to releasably engage an edge of the tray 122 or other suitable feature associated with the tray and releasably secure the tray to the mounting base such that the mounting base can be continuously replenished with trays containing tissue bridges 2020 without having to remove the mounting base from the user's arm.

[0158] As another example, Fig. 35 depicts a tray 122 with tissue bridge 2020 disassembled from a mounting base 4004 comprising adhesive 4008 and fastening straps 4002, according to another embodiment of the present disclosure. The straps 4002 can be configured to removably mount the mounting base 4005 onto a user's arm, and the adhesive 4008 can be configured to releasably engage and releasably secure the tray 122 to the mounting base such that the mounting base can be continuously replenished with trays containing tissue bridges 2020 without having to remove the mounting base from the user's arm. As depicted in Figs. 34 and 35, the underside of the mounting base 4005 can be shaped to generally conform to the shape of a user's forearm, such as by having a concave, arcuate, or concave surface extending along the length of the underside of the mounting base.

[0159] As an additional example, variations in tissue bridge geometry can be modified for different relative effectiveness and for use on or in different parts of the body (e.g., to compensate for different anatomical variations such as different skin thickness, different curvature, different orientation, different tissue properties such as fat layer thickness or changes due to aging). For example, the shoulders of the tissue bridge can be larger when desired for more intermediate strut depression. As another example, the arch can be made narrower or wider, or thicker or thinner. For example, a relatively narrow arch may be used for thinner skin and more vertical forces (abduction). A relatively wide arch can be used for thicker tissue and more horizontal forces. A relatively thick arch can be used for more tension reduction. A relatively thin arch can be used over bone surfaces where there is more horizontal movement than vertical. As another example, the intermediate strut can be thicker or thinner, or can span wider across the width of the body. A thicker intermediate strut may provide more centralization, and a thinner intermediate strut may provide more abduction. Also, there may be different distances defined by the gaps between adjacent ends of the intermediate struts. In addition, there may be different overall sizes of the tissue bridge.

[0160] At least the tissue bridge is typically sterilized prior to use, although any suitable sterilization may be used. As one example, a package containing one or more tissue bridges and / or applicators may be exposed to radiation (e.g., (ionizing radiation)) in a manner that sterilizes at least the tissue bridges and / or applicators therein. Depending on the type of material from which the tissue bridges and / or applicators are constructed, sterilization (e.g., by exposure to radiation) may affect the properties of the material. In this regard, the material from which the tissue bridges and / or applicators are constructed may be selected based on the sterilization process to which the tissue bridges and / or applicators may be exposed.

[0161] As a further example, the above-discussed body of the tissue bridge can be constructed of a molded polymer. The molded polymer can be a polymer molded from a constituent polymeric material via processes such as injection molding, compression molding, stamping, thermoforming, casting, and fused deposition modeling, 3D printing such as stereolithography, selective laser printing, polyjet processing, digital light processing, and other processes known to those skilled in the art. The molded polymer may be composed of any material suitable for processing and application. Such materials may include lightweight non-allergenic polymers such as acrylonitrile butadiene styrene, polyoxymethylene, polypropylene, polyethylene, polyethylene terephthalate, polycarbonate, polyamide, polylactic acid, polyvinyl chloride, polytetrafluoroethylene, polyaryletherketone, polysulfone, and others, including mixtures and copolymers thereof with modifying additives such as colorants, reinforcing agents, impact modifiers, heat stabilizers, and others. Such polymers can have an elastic modulus of 0.1-10 GPa and an elongation of 1%-100%. As a more specific example, the body of the tissue bridge can be constructed of polycarbonate, which has an elastic modulus of about 2.4 GPa and an elongation at yield of about 7%.

[0162] As another example, the inner layer or inner sheet of the foot pad discussed above can be a film layer. These film layers can be made from extruded polymers, such as those discussed with respect to molded polymers. The polymer for the film layer can have an elastic modulus of 0.1-10 GPa and an elongation of 1%-100%. As a more specific example, the inner layer or inner sheet of the foot pad can be constructed of extruded polyethylene terephthalate, which has an elastic modulus of about 2.6 GPa and an elongation at yield of about 5%. The inner layer can be about 0.005 inches thick, or about 0.007 inches thick, and the other side can be treated with acrylic. The adhesive layer between the body and the inner layer can be a UV-curable adhesive or any other suitable adhesive.

[0163] As an additional example, the outer layers or sheets of the footpad discussed above can be woven layers or other suitable substrates. These layers can be produced from nonwoven or woven polymers, cast microporous polymers, or other suitable substrates. The fibers for the nonwoven or cast substrates can be made from polymers such as those discussed with respect to the cast polymers. The polymers for the outer layers or sheets of the footpad can have an elastic modulus of 0.1-10 GPa and an elongation of 1%-100%. The apparent elastic properties of the outer layers or sheets of the footpad can result from the diameter, density, and orientation of the fibers that make up the nonwoven or woven or cast substrate. Generally, the resulting nonwoven or cast substrate layers can have an elastic modulus of 0.1-10 GPa and an elongation of 1%-100%. As a more specific example, the outer layer or outer sheet of the foot pad can be a breathable polyurethane substrate having an apparent modulus of elasticity of about 0.2 GPa and an elongation at yield of about 100%. The polyurethane substrate can allow moisture transmission. The outer layer can be about 0.003 inches thick. In a tissue bridge, the body and inner sheet can both have a higher modulus of elasticity than the outer sheet. For example, in a tissue bridge, the body and inner sheet can both have a modulus of elasticity within the range of about 2 times to about 40 times the modulus of elasticity of the outer sheet, about 5 times to about 30 times the modulus of elasticity of the outer sheet, about 10 times to about 25 times the modulus of elasticity of the outer sheet, and / or any other subrange or value therebetween. The adhesive between the inner layer and the outer layer can be a silicone pressure sensitive adhesive or any other suitable adhesive.

[0164] As an example, the release liner may be a silicone release liner that is about 0.003 inches thick. The adhesive between the outer layer and the release liner may be an acrylic pressure sensitive adhesive or any other suitable adhesive. The adhesive between the outer layer and the release liner is typically for adhering the tissue bridge to a patient (e.g., a patient contact adhesive). The patient contact adhesive may include one or more additives, for example, one or more medicinal substances. The one or more medicinal substances in the patient contact adhesive may include hydroquinone, sunscreen, antihistamines, steroids, and / or any other suitable additives.

[0165] Various implementations are also within the scope of this disclosure, including the following. (Example) EXAMPLES

[0166] 1. A medical article for at least partially covering wound and / or scar tissue, comprising: a body having a central section extending across an area; and flanges extending outwardly from opposing lower sections of the central section, respectively, wherein at least the central section of the body is resiliently configured to be transformed from a rest configuration to an extended configuration and to return toward the rest configuration in response to being released from the extended configuration, the lower sections being farther apart from each other in the extended configuration than in the rest configuration, a first of the flanges having opposing upper and lower surfaces, each of which is greater than a thickness defined between the upper and lower surfaces of the first flange; and a foot pad connected to the first flange for at least partially moving with the first flange, the foot pad extending inwardly into the area across which the central section extends, the foot pad having opposing upper and lower surfaces, each of which is greater than a thickness defined between the upper and lower surfaces of the foot pad, the upper surface of the foot pad and the lower surface of the first flange facing toward each other. EXAMPLES

[0167] The medical article of example 1, wherein the central section comprises an arch extending across an area across which the central section extends, the foot pad is a first foot pad, a second of the flanges having opposing upper and lower surfaces that are each greater than a thickness defined between the upper and lower surfaces of the second flange, and the medical article comprises a second foot pad connected to the second flange for at least partial movement with the second flange, the second foot pad extending inwardly into the area across which the central section extends, the second foot pad having opposing upper and lower surfaces that are each greater than a thickness defined between the upper and lower surfaces of the second foot pad, and the upper surface of the second foot pad and the lower surface of the second flange face toward each other. EXAMPLES

[0168] The medical article of example 1, wherein the body is more rigid than the foot pad. EXAMPLES

[0169] The medical article of Example 1, wherein the central section of the body extends at least partially around an area across which the central section extends, and the foot pad comprises an extension portion extending inwardly into the area across which the central section extends. EXAMPLES

[0170] 2. The medical article of example 1, wherein the upper surface of the foot pad is adhered to the underside of the first flange. EXAMPLES

[0171] The medical article of Example 1, wherein the foot pad comprises an outer sheet configured to be attached to tissue and an inner sheet positioned between the outer sheet and the first flange, the inner sheet being stiffer than the outer sheet. EXAMPLES

[0172] The medical article of example 6, wherein the outer sheet is larger than the inner sheet and the extension of the outer sheet extends outward beyond the outer edge of the inner sheet. EXAMPLES

[0173] The medical article of example 1, in combination with a tool configured for use in manipulating the medical article, wherein a portion of the tool extends into a space between the body and at least a portion of the foot pad. EXAMPLES

[0174] The medical article of example 1, wherein the body further comprises a capture portion configured to interact with a tool. EXAMPLES

[0175] 10. The medical article of example 9, wherein the capture portion comprises a hole extending through the body and at least a portion of the foot pad extends below the hole. EXAMPLES

[0176] 10. The medical article of example 9, wherein a section of the foot pad extends inwardly from adjacent the first flange and below the capture portion. EXAMPLES

[0177] The medical article of example 9, wherein the capture portion comprises a receptacle configured to receive at least a portion of the tool. EXAMPLES

[0178] The medical article of example 12, wherein the body and the foot pad are cooperatively configured together to at least partially define a receptacle. EXAMPLES

[0179] The medical article of Example 12, wherein the body comprises an arch extending partially around an area across which the central section extends, and the foot pad extends inwardly from the first flange into the area across which the central section extends and at least partially defines a receptacle. EXAMPLES

[0180] The medical article of example 14, wherein the capture portion comprises a hole extending through the arch and configured to receive an end section of the tool therethrough such that the hole is an opening of the receptacle. EXAMPLES

[0181] 1. A medical article for at least partially covering wounds and / or scar tissue, comprising: an arch extending across an area; an intermediate strut connected to the arch and extending into the area across which the central section extends, the intermediate strut being configured to be attached to tissue; and an inner layer positioned between the outer layer and the arch, the inner layer being stiffer than the outer layer. EXAMPLES

[0182] 17. The medical article of example 16, wherein the inner layer has a higher elastic modulus than the outer layer. EXAMPLES

[0183] The medical article of example 16, further comprising a release liner adhered to the intermediate strut. EXAMPLES

[0184] The medical article of example 16, further comprising a foot plate, wherein the intermediate strut is connected to the arch through at least the foot plate. EXAMPLES

[0185] The medical article of Example 19, wherein the intermediate strut is a first intermediate strut, the foot plate is a first foot plate, the arch has first and second lower sections opposite each other, the first intermediate strut is connected to the first lower section via at least the first foot plate, and the medical article further comprises a second intermediate strut connected to the second lower section via at least the second foot plate. EXAMPLES

[0186] 21. The medical article of example 20, further comprising a medium configured to be positioned at least partially between the first intermediate strut and the second intermediate strut. EXAMPLES

[0187] The medical article of Example 21, wherein the medium comprises a therapeutic agent. EXAMPLES

[0188] 22. The medical article of example 21, wherein the medium comprises a silicone strip. EXAMPLES

[0189] 22. The medical article of example 21, wherein the medium is mounted in an arch. EXAMPLES

[0190] 1. A tool configured for use in manipulating a medical article, the tool comprising first and second portions spaced apart from one another and each configured to releasably engage the medical article, a reconfigurable linkage connecting the first and second portions to one another, and a lever extending from proximate the linkage, the linkage and the lever cooperatively configured such that in response to at least a portion of the lever being moved towards one another, at least a portion of the first and second portions are moved away from one another. EXAMPLES

[0191] 26. The tool of Example 25, wherein the lever comprises a handle. EXAMPLES

[0192] The tool of Example 25, wherein the first portion comprises a first capture portion configured to be releasably attached to the medical article, and the second portion comprises a second capture portion configured to be releasably attached to the medical article. EXAMPLES

[0193] 28. The tool of example embodiment 27, wherein the first and second capture portions each include a shank and a protrusion extending outwardly from the shank, the protrusions facing outwardly from each other. EXAMPLES

[0194] The tool of Example 27, comprising a bearing surface positioned between the first and second capturing portions, connected to the first and second capturing portions by a coupling portion, and configured to engage the medical article while the first and second capturing portions are engaged to the medical article. EXAMPLES

[0195] The bearing surface faces downwards.

[0196] 30. The tool of example embodiment 29, wherein the first and second capture portions extend downwardly from adjacent the connector and the lever extends upwardly from adjacent the connector. EXAMPLES

[0197] 1. A tool configured for use in manipulating a medical article, the tool comprising: a first body having a first lever connected to a first portion, the first portion configured to engage a first end of a medical article; a second body having a second lever connected to a second portion, the second portion configured to engage a second end of the medical article; and a reconfigurable coupling interconnecting the first and second portions, the first and second bodies being configured such that the first and second bodies are pivotable relative to one another about first and second axes, respectively, and the first and second axes are movable toward and away from one another. EXAMPLES

[0198] The tool of Example 31, wherein the coupling portion is configured such that the first and second bodies are simultaneously pivotable relative to each other about the first and second axes, respectively, and the first and second axes are movable toward and away from each other. EXAMPLES

[0199] The tool of example 31, wherein the connector is constructed of an elastic material. EXAMPLES

[0200] 32. The tool of example 31, wherein the lever comprises a handle. EXAMPLES

[0201] The tool described in Example 31, wherein the first portion comprises a receptacle configured to releasably receive a first end of the medical article, and the second portion comprises a receptacle configured to releasably receive a second end of the medical article. EXAMPLES

[0202] The tool described in Example 35, comprising a bearing surface carried by the connecting portion, positioned between the first part and the second part, and configured to engage the medical article while the first and second parts are engaged to the medical article. EXAMPLES

[0203] 37. The tool of example embodiment 36, wherein the first lever extends outwardly from the first portion and the second lever extends outwardly from the second portion. EXAMPLES

[0204] 1. A package comprising: a support having a central section and outer sections each extending outwardly and downwardly; and a medical article at least partially contained within the package and supported by the support, the medical article having a central section and foot pads each extending outwardly and downwardly from opposing lower portions of the central section of the medical article, the foot pads each being proximate the outer sections of the support, and a gap being defined between at least a portion of the central section of the medical article and the central section of the support. EXAMPLES

[0205] The package of example 38, wherein the gap is configured to receive a portion of the tool. EXAMPLES

[0206] The package of Example 38, further comprising a liner positioned between the support and the medical article, the medical article being releasably mounted to the liner, at least a portion of the liner being fixedly mounted to the support, the liner comprising a line of disruption to at least partially facilitate relative movement between the medical article and the support. EXAMPLES

[0207] 41. The package of embodiment 40, wherein the line of disruption at least partially defines a flap in the liner. EXAMPLES

[0208] The package of Example 40, wherein at least a portion of the line of discontinuity is positioned under one of the foot pads. EXAMPLES

[0209] The package of Example 38, further comprising at least one strap configured to at least partially mount the support on a user's arm. EXAMPLES

[0210] The package of Example 43, wherein in combination with the base, the support comprises a tray, the tray is releasably connected to the base, and at least one strap is configured to at least partially mount the base on the user's arm to connect the tray to the user's arm via the base. EXAMPLES

[0211] The package of Example 43, wherein at least a portion of the line of discontinuity is positioned under one of the foot pads. EXAMPLES

[0212] A method comprising transforming a medical article from a stationary configuration to an extended configuration including reconfiguring the tool while the tool and medical article are engaged with each other, wherein the interengaged tool and medical article comprise a first portion of the tool and a first portion of the medical article engaged with each other and a second portion of the tool and a second portion of the medical article engaged with each other, and the reconfiguring of the tool comprises moving a lever of the tool toward each other such that the first and second portions of the tool move away from each other in response to moving the lever of the tool toward each other and the first and second portions of the medical article move away from each other in response to moving the first and second portions of the tool away from each other. EXAMPLES

[0213] 47. The method of example 46, wherein the support to which the medical article is mounted at least partially delaminates in response to at least a portion of the deformation of the medical article. EXAMPLES

[0214] 47. The method of example 46, further comprising the step of: in response at least in part to the deformation of the medical article, there is relative movement between the first section and the second section of the support for the medical article. EXAMPLES

[0215] 49. The method of example 48, wherein the relative movement includes pivoting the first section relative to the second section. EXAMPLES

[0216] 47. The method of example 46, further comprising the step of unloading the medical article from the support while the tool and the medical article are engaged with each other, wherein at least a portion of the unloading occurs after at least a portion of the deformation of the medical article. EXAMPLES

[0217] The method of example 46, further comprising the step of detaching the tool from the medical article after deformation of the medical article, wherein the deformation of the medical article comprises the step of deforming the medical article such that the medical article is urged toward a resting configuration and reconfigures from an extended configuration in response to detachment of the tool from the medical article. EXAMPLES

[0218] The method of example 51, further comprising the step of at least partially loading the medical article into tissue while the medical article is in an extended configuration and the tool and medical article are engaged with each other, prior to detaching the tool from the medical article. EXAMPLES

[0219] 1. A method comprising: transforming a medical article from a static configuration to an extended configuration such that foot pads of the medical article are farther apart from each other in the extended configuration than in the static configuration, each foot pad having an inner portion extending inwardly from an outer portion of the foot pad such that the inner portions are positioned between the outer portions of the foot pads; adhesively mounting the inner portions to tissue while the medical device is in its extended configuration; and then reconfiguring the medical article from the extended configuration to an intermediate configuration that is between the static and extended configurations; and adhesively mounting the outer portions of the pads to tissue while the medical device is in its intermediate configuration. EXAMPLES

[0220] The method of Example 53, wherein the step of adhesively mounting the outer portion of the pad to tissue occurs at least in part in response to a reconfiguration of the medical device. EXAMPLES

[0221] 54. The method of example 53, wherein the inner portion comprises intermediate struts, and the step of reconfiguring from the extended configuration to the intermediate configuration comprises the step of the intermediate struts approaching each other and pushing the portions of tissue toward each other. EXAMPLES

[0222] 1. A medical article for at least partially covering wound and / or scar tissue, comprising: an arch comprising a spanning section positioned between opposing lower sections of the arch, the arch configured to be transformed from a rest configuration to an extended configuration, wherein in the rest configuration any space between the lower sections of the arch is less than the space between the lower sections of the arch in the extended configuration; and foot pads connected to the lower sections of the arch for moving with the lower sections of the arch when the arch is transitioned between the rest configuration and the extended configuration, respectively, a first of the foot pads comprising an outer layer configured to be attached to tissue and an inner layer positioned between the outer layer and the arch, the inner layer being stiffer than the outer layer. EXAMPLES

[0223] 57. The medical article of example 56, wherein the inner layer has a higher elastic modulus than the outer layer. EXAMPLES

[0224] 57. The medical article of embodiment 56, wherein the inner layer is a flange extending outwardly from the first lower section of the arch. EXAMPLES

[0225] 57. The medical article of example 56, further comprising a flange, the inner layer being positioned between the flange and the outer layer. EXAMPLES

[0226] 57. The medical article of example 56, further comprising a foot plate, the inner layer being positioned between the foot plate and the outer layer. EXAMPLES

[0227] 57. The medical article of Example 56, wherein the spanning section extends across the area and the intermediate strut extends into the area, the intermediate strut comprising at least a portion of each of the outer layer and the inner layer. EXAMPLES

[0228] A medical article as described in Example 56, wherein the inner layer is an intermediate layer of the first foot pad, and the first foot pad further comprises an inner layer positioned between the intermediate layer and the first lower section of the arch. EXAMPLES

[0229] 63. The medical article of embodiment 62, wherein the inner layer is a flange extending outwardly from the first lower section of the arch. EXAMPLES

[0230] The medical article of Example 62, wherein the spanning section extends across the area and the intermediate strut extends into the area, the intermediate strut comprising at least a portion of each of the intermediate and inner layers. EXAMPLES

[0231] 1. A medical article for at least partially covering wound and / or scar tissue, comprising: a body having a central section and flanges extending outwardly from opposing lower sections of the central section, respectively, such that the central section is positioned between the flanges, the body being configured to be transformed from a resting configuration to an extended configuration; and a foot pad mounted to at least a first of the flanges for at least partial movement with the first flange, the foot pad comprising an outer sheet configured to be attached to tissue and an inner sheet positioned between the outer sheet and the first flange, the inner sheet being stiffer than the outer sheet. EXAMPLES

[0232] 66. The medical article of example 65, wherein the inner sheet has a higher elastic modulus than the outer sheet. EXAMPLES

[0233] 66. The medical article of Example 65, wherein the central section extends across the area and the intermediate strut extends into the area, the intermediate strut comprising at least a portion of each of the outer and inner sheets. EXAMPLES

[0234] The medical article of Example 65, comprising an extended configuration, wherein the first and second flanges are spaced apart by a distance, and in the static configuration, any space between the first flange and the second flange is less than the space between the first flange and the second flange in the extended configuration. EXAMPLES

[0235] A medical article as described in Example 65, wherein at least a portion of the body extends across and at least partially around the area, and the foot pad comprises an extension extending inwardly into the area. EXAMPLES

[0236] A medical article as described in Example 65, wherein the extension portion of the outer sheet extends outward beyond the outer edge of the inner sheet. EXAMPLES

[0237] The medical article of example 19, wherein the outer sheet is larger than the inner sheet. EXAMPLES

[0238] The medical article of Example 65, wherein the foot pad is a first foot pad, and the medical article further comprises a second foot pad mounted to the second flange for movement with the second flange, the second foot pad comprising an outer sheet configured to be attached to tissue and an inner sheet positioned between the second flange and the outer sheet of the second foot pad, and the inner sheet of the second foot pad has a higher elastic modulus than the outer sheet of the second foot pad. EXAMPLES

[0239] A medical article as described in Example 65, in combination with a tool configured to be used to manipulate the medical article, wherein a portion of the tool extends into the space between the body and at least a portion of the foot pad. EXAMPLES

[0240] 1. A medical article for at least partially covering wounds and / or scar tissue, comprising: a body having a central section, flanges each extending outwardly from a lower portion of the central section and a capture portion configured for interacting with a tool; and a foot pad mounted to at least a first of the flanges for at least partial movement with the first flange, a section of the foot pad extending below the capture portion and configured for interacting with a tool. EXAMPLES

[0241] 75. The medical article of Example 74, wherein the capture portion comprises a hole extending through the body and at least a portion of the foot pad extends below the hole. EXAMPLES

[0242] A medical article as described in Example 74, wherein a section of the foot pad extends downward from the first flange and below the capture portion. EXAMPLES

[0243] A medical article as described in Example 74, wherein one section of the foot pad is an intermediate support. EXAMPLES

[0244] A medical article as described in Example 74, wherein the capture portion has a hole extending through the spanning section of the body, and one section of the foot pad is an intermediate post extending below the hole. EXAMPLES

[0245] 79. The medical article of Example 78, wherein a gap exists between the hole and the intermediate strut. EXAMPLES

[0246] The medical article of Example 74, wherein the capture portion comprises a receptacle configured to receive at least a portion of the tool. EXAMPLES

[0247] The medical article of Example 80, wherein the body and the foot pad are cooperatively configured together to at least partially define a receptacle. EXAMPLES

[0248] The medical article of Example 80, wherein the body comprises an arch, the arch extending partially around the periphery of the area, and the foot pad extends inwardly from the first flange into the area and at least partially defines a receptacle. EXAMPLES

[0249] 83. The medical article of Example 82, wherein the capture portion comprises a hole extending through the arch and configured to receive an end section of the tool therethrough such that the hole is an opening of the receptacle. EXAMPLES

[0250] 1. A medical article for at least partially covering a wound and / or scar tissue, the medical article comprising: an arch extending across an area; an intermediate strut connected to the arch and extending into the area; and an adhesive connected to the intermediate strut.

[0251] a release liner connected to both of the middle struts via an adhesive. EXAMPLES

[0252] The medical article of Example 84, further comprising a first foot plate and a second foot plate, wherein a first of the intermediate struts is connected to the arch via at least the first foot plate and a second of the intermediate struts is connected to the arch via at least the second foot plate. EXAMPLES

[0253] The medical article of Example 84, wherein the release liner is a first release liner, and the medical article further comprises a second release liner connected to the arch and extending outwardly relative to the first release liner. EXAMPLES

[0254] The medical article of Example 86, further comprising a third release liner connected to the first lower section of the arch and extending outwardly relative to the first release liner, the first release liner being positioned between the second release liner and the third release liner, and the second release liner being connected to the second lower section of the arch opposite from the first lower section of the arch. EXAMPLES

[0255] The medical article of Example 87, further comprising a first foot plate and a second foot plate, wherein the third release liner and a first intermediate strut of the intermediate struts are both connected to the first lower section of the arch via at least the first foot plate, and the second release liner and a second intermediate strut of the intermediate struts are both connected to the second lower section of the arch via at least the second foot plate. EXAMPLES

[0256] A medical article for at least partially covering wounds and / or scar tissue, comprising: an arch having opposing lower sections, foot pads each connected to the lower sections, and a medium configured to be positioned at least partially between the foot pads, optionally comprising a therapeutic agent. EXAMPLES

[0257] 90. The medical article of example 89, wherein the medium comprises a silicone strip. EXAMPLES

[0258] 90. The medical article of embodiment 89, wherein the medium is mounted on the arch. EXAMPLES

[0259] A medical article as described in Example 89, wherein each foot pad has intermediate struts extending into the area across which the arch extends, and the medium is positioned between the intermediate struts. EXAMPLES

[0260] The medical article of Example 89, wherein the medium comprises a therapeutic agent. EXAMPLES

[0261] The medical article of Example 92, wherein the therapeutic agent comprises silicone. EXAMPLES

[0262] 1. A tool configured for use in manipulating a medical article, the tool comprising first and second portions spaced apart from one another and each configured to releasably engage the medical article, a reconfigurable linkage connecting the first and second portions to one another, and a lever extending from the linkage, the linkage and the lever cooperatively configured such that in response to at least a portion of the lever being moved towards one another, the first and second portions are moved away from one another. EXAMPLES

[0263] 96. The tool of Example 95, wherein the lever comprises a handle. EXAMPLES

[0264] The tool of Example 95, wherein the first portion comprises a first capture portion configured to be releasably attached to the medical article, and the second portion comprises a second capture portion configured to be releasably attached to the medical article. EXAMPLES

[0265] 98. The tool of Example 97, wherein the first and second capture portions each comprise a receptacle for receiving a respective portion of the medical article. EXAMPLES

[0266] 98. The tool of embodiment 97, wherein the first and second capture portions each include a shank and a protrusion extending outwardly from the shank, the protrusions facing outwardly from each other. EXAMPLES

[0267] The tool described in Example 97, comprising a bearing surface positioned between the first capturing portion and the second capturing portion, connected to the first and second capturing portions by a coupling portion, and configured to engage the medical article while the first and second capturing portions are engaged to the medical article. EXAMPLES

[0268] The tool of example 100, wherein the bearing surface faces downward, the first and second capture portions extend downward from the coupling portion, and the lever extends upward from the coupling portion. EXAMPLES

[0269] 1. A package comprising: a support having a central section and outer sections each extending outwardly and downwardly from opposing portions of the central section; and a medical article at least partially contained within the package and supported by the support, the medical article having the central section and foot pads each extending outwardly and downwardly from opposing lower portions of the central section of the medical article, the foot pads each being proximate the outer sections of the support, and a gap being defined between at least a portion of the central section of the medical article and the central section of the support. EXAMPLES

[0270] The package of example 102, wherein the gap is configured to receive a portion of the tool. EXAMPLES

[0271] The package of Example 103, wherein the package at least partially contains a tool, the tool being configured for use in applying the medical article to tissue. EXAMPLES

[0272] The package of Example 102, further comprising a liner positioned between the support and the medical article, the medical article being releasably mounted to the liner, the liner being fixedly mounted to the support, the liner comprising a line of disruption to at least partially facilitate relative movement between the medical article and the support. EXAMPLES

[0273] The package of embodiment 105, wherein the line of disruption at least partially defines a flap in the liner. EXAMPLES

[0274] The package of Example 105, wherein at least a portion of the line of discontinuity is positioned under one of the foot pads. EXAMPLES

[0275] A method comprising transforming a medical article from a stationary configuration to an extended configuration including reconfiguring the tool while the tool and medical article are engaged with each other, wherein the interengaged tool and medical article comprise a first portion of the tool and a first portion of the medical article engaged with each other and a second portion of the tool and a second portion of the medical article engaged with each other, and the reconfiguring of the tool comprises moving a lever of the tool toward each other such that the first and second portions of the tool move away from each other in response to moving the lever of the tool toward each other and the first and second portions of the medical article move away from each other in response to moving the first and second portions of the tool away from each other. EXAMPLES

[0276] 109. The method of example 108, wherein the support to which the medical article is mounted at least partially delaminates in response to at least a portion of the deformation of the medical article. EXAMPLES

[0277] The method of example 108, further comprising the step of: in response at least in part to the deformation of the medical article, there is relative movement between the first section and the second section of the support for the medical article. EXAMPLES

[0278] 111. The method of embodiment 110, wherein the relative movement includes pivoting the first section relative to the second section. EXAMPLES

[0279] The method of example 108, further comprising the step of unloading the medical article from the support while the tool and the medical article are engaged with each other, at least a portion of the unloading occurring after at least a portion of the deformation of the medical article. EXAMPLES

[0280] The method of example 108, further comprising causing engagement between the tool and the medical article. EXAMPLES

[0281] The method of example 108, further comprising the step of detaching the tool from the medical article after deformation of the medical article, wherein the deformation of the medical article comprises the step of deforming the medical article such that the medical article is urged toward a resting configuration and reconfigured from an extended configuration in response to detachment of the tool from the medical article. EXAMPLES

[0282] The method of example 114, further comprising the step of at least partially loading the medical article into tissue while the medical article is in an extended configuration and the tool and medical article are engaged with each other, prior to detaching the tool from the medical article. EXAMPLES

[0283] Any one or more of Examples 1 to 115 in combination with a therapeutic agent. EXAMPLES

[0284] Any one or more of Examples 1 to 116 in combination with any one or more of the others.

[0285] To complete the disclosure, this application incorporates by reference in its entirety the following patent application publications: U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2014 / 0128819 and U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2014 / 0227483.

[0286] In the specification and / or figures, exemplary embodiments of the present invention are disclosed. The present invention is not limited to such exemplary embodiments. For example, the present invention is not limited to the specific details (e.g., dimensions and ratios) disclosed. The use of the term "and / or" includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items. The figures may be schematic representations and are not necessarily drawn to scale. Unless otherwise stated, specific terms are used in a generic and descriptive sense and not for purposes of limitation.

Claims

1. A tool configured for use in manipulating a medical article, the tool comprising: first and second portions, the first and second portions being spaced apart from one another, each of the first and second portions being configured to releasably engage a medical article; a bearing surface located between and remote from each of the first and second portions, the bearing surface configured to engage the medical article while the first and second portions are engaged to the medical article; and a reconfigurable coupling interconnecting the bearing surface and the first and second portions; a lever extending from adjacent the connecting portion; wherein the tool is configured such that at least a portion of the first and second portions are moved away from each other in response to at least a portion of the levers being moved toward each other.

2. The tool of claim 1, wherein the bearing surface is configured to provide a downward force to the medical article in response to the tool being in an upright configuration and at least a portion of the lever being moved toward each other while the first and second portions provide an upward force to the medical article.

3. The bearing surface faces downward when the tool is in an upright configuration; The tool of claim 1 , wherein the bearing surface is intermediate the first portion and the second portion.

4. At the same time, the bearing surface faces downward; the first and second portions extend downwardly from the connector; and The lever extends upward from the connector. The tool of claim 1 .

5. The first portion comprises a first capturing portion configured to releasably attach to the medical article; the second portion comprises a second capture portion configured to releasably attach to the medical article; The tool of claim 1 .

6. Each of the first and second capture portions comprises a shank and a protrusion extending outwardly from the shank; The tool of claim 5 , wherein the protrusions face away from each other.

7. At the same time, the first and second capture portions extend downwardly from adjacent the coupling portion; and the lever extends upwardly from adjacent the connector; The tool of claim 5.

8. The tool of claim 5, wherein each of the first and second capturing portions includes a receptacle for receiving a respective portion of the medical article.

9. A tool configured for use in manipulating a medical article, the tool comprising: first and second portions, the first and second portions being spaced apart from one another, each of the first and second portions being configured to releasably engage a medical article; a bearing surface located between and remote from each of the first and second portions, the bearing surface configured to engage the medical article while the first and second portions are engaged to the medical article; and a reconfigurable coupling interconnecting the bearing surface and the first and second portions; a lever extending from adjacent the connecting portion; wherein the bearing surfaces are configured to provide a downward force on the medical article in response to at least a portion of the levers being moved toward each other while the tool is in an upright configuration and the first and second portions engage the medical article.

10. The tool of claim 9, wherein the bearing surface is an underside of a pivotable joint of the tool.

11. At the same time, the bearing surface faces downward; the first and second portions extend downwardly from the connector; and The lever extends upward from the connector. The tool of claim 9.

12. The medical article according to claim 1, wherein the first portion comprises a first capturing portion configured to releasably attach to the medical article; the second portion comprises a second capture portion configured to releasably attach to the medical article; The tool of claim 9.

13. Each of the first and second capture portions comprises a shank and a protrusion extending outwardly from the shank; The tool of claim 12 , wherein the protrusions face away from each other.

14. A tool configured for use in manipulating a medical article, the tool comprising: first and second portions, the first and second portions being spaced apart from one another, each of the first and second portions being configured to releasably engage a medical article; a bearing surface located between and remote from each of the first and second portions, the bearing surface configured to engage the medical article while the first and second portions are engaged to the medical article; and a reconfigurable coupling interconnecting the bearing surface and the first and second portions; a lever extending from adjacent the connecting portion; wherein the bearing surfaces are configured to move relative to the first and second portions in response to at least a portion of the lever being moved toward one another while the tool is in an upright configuration.

15. The tool of claim 14, wherein the tool is configured such that at least a portion of the first and second portions are moved away from each other in response to at least a portion of the lever being moved toward each other while the tool is in an upright configuration.

16. The bearing surface is a lower surface of a pivotable joint, the first portion comprises a first capturing portion configured to releasably attach to the medical article; the second portion comprises a second capture portion configured to releasably attach to the medical article; The tool of claim 14.

17. The tool of claim 14, comprising opposing upper and lower pivotable joints spaced apart from one another, the bearing surface being an underside of the lower pivotable joint.

18. An upper connection portion between the levers, the upper connection portion comprises the upper pivotable joint point; 18. The tool of claim 17, wherein the upper pivotable joint is positioned between the levers and pivotally connects the levers to each other at a location remote from the lower pivotable joint.

19. The tool of claim 14, wherein the tool is configured such that in response to at least a portion of the levers being moved toward each other while the tool is in an upright configuration, the bearing surface moves downwardly relative to the first and second capturing portions, thereby reducing a lift distance, the lift distance being from a height of a bottom of the bearing surface to a height of a bottom of the first capturing portion.

20. Each of the first and second capture portions comprises a shank and a protrusion extending outwardly from the shank; the tool is configured such that the bearing surfaces move downwardly relative to the projections in response to at least a portion of the levers being moved toward each other while the tool is in an upright configuration. The tool of claim 14.

21. The tool of claim 20, wherein the protrusions face away from each other.

Images