Breathable heat contact pad

Abstract

Disclosed herein are systems and methods for providing targeted temperature management (TTM) therapy to a patient. The systems described herein provide airflow to a patient in addition to a liquid flow that defines thermal energy exchange with the patient. Various systems may provide air at a defined TTM temperature to a thermal contact pad, a mattress, or a ventilator that delivers the TTM air to the patient via the ventilator. Also disclosed herein are systems, devices, and methods for preventing, managing, and / or removing sweat moisture from between a thermal contact pad and a patient. Disclosed herein is a thermal contact pad that includes a wicking material to wick moisture away from the patient. Also disclosed herein is a thermal contact pad that includes an airflow that wicks moisture away from the patient.

Description

Background Art

[0001] The effects of temperature on the human body have been well demonstrated, and the use of targeted temperature management (TTM) systems for selectively cooling and / or heating body tissues is known. High temperatures, i.e., hyperthermia, can be harmful to the brain under normal conditions, and even more importantly, during periods of physical stress such as illness or surgery. Conversely, lower temperatures, i.e., mild hypothermia, can provide some degree of neuroprotection. Moderate to severe hypothermia tends to be more harmful to the body, particularly the cardiovascular system.

[0002] Targeted temperature management can be viewed in two different aspects. The first aspect of temperature management involves treating abnormal body temperatures, i.e., cooling the body under hyperthermic conditions or warming the body under hypothermic conditions. The second aspect of temperature regulation is an evolving treatment that uses techniques to physically control a patient's body temperature to provide physiological benefits, such as cooling stroke patients to obtain some degree of neuroprotection. As an example, TTM systems may be utilized in initial stroke treatment to reduce neurological damage in stroke and head trauma patients. Further applications include selective patient heating / cooling during surgical procedures such as cardiopulmonary bypass surgery.

[0003] A TTM system circulates a fluid (e.g., water) through one or more heat-contact pads coupled to a patient, influencing the inter-surface thermal energy exchange with the patient. Generally, a TTM system includes a TTM fluid control module coupled to at least one contact pad via a fluid delivery line. One such TTM system is disclosed in Patent Document 1, filed October 11, 2001, with the invention title "Patient Temperature Control System with Fluid Pressure Maintenance," and one such heat-contact pad and associated system is disclosed in Patent Document 2, filed January 4, 1999, with the invention title "Cooling / heating Pad and System," both of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety. As described in Patent Document 2, the ability to establish and maintain close contact between the pad and the patient is crucial for fully realizing medical effectiveness using a TTM system.

[0004] In some cases of TTM therapy, patients may sweat over the contact area of ​​the thermal contact pad, causing skin irritation and / or denaturation of the hydrogel. This specification discloses systems, devices, and methods for preventing, managing, and / or removing sweat moisture from the contact area of ​​a thermal contact pad.

[0005] In some cases, enhancing thermal energy exchange during TTM therapy can benefit the patient. Typically, thermal energy exchange is limited by the contact area of ​​the thermal contact pad. This specification discloses systems, devices, and methods for providing a patient with a specified temperature airflow in accordance with TTM therapy in order to enhance thermal energy exchange with the patient. [Prior art documents] [Patent Documents]

[0006] [Patent Document 1] U.S. Patent No. 6,645,232 [Patent Document 2] U.S. Patent No. 6197045 [Overview of the project]

[0007] In short, this specification discloses medical pads configured to govern thermal energy exchange with a patient, according to several embodiments. The pad includes a fluid-containing layer configured to circulate a target body temperature management (TTM) fluid internally in order to govern thermal energy exchange between the TTM fluid and the patient. Multiple openings extend through the fluid-containing layer from the top to the bottom surface, with a wicking material positioned inside, configured to absorb moisture and keep it away from the patient's pad contact area.

[0008] In some embodiments, the wicking material extends between the upper and lower surfaces of the fluid-containing layer. The opening defines an upper opening region and a lower opening region, and in some embodiments, the upper opening region is larger than the lower opening region. A hydrogel is positioned along the lower surface of the fluid-containing layer in some embodiments.

[0009] In some embodiments, the pad further includes a cover, the cover including an upper wall extending over the upper surface of the fluid-containing layer and a peripheral wall bonded to the upper wall to define a compartment for the fluid-containing layer when the pad is attached to a patient. The upper wall may include a plurality of vents extending through the upper wall, and a support structure may be positioned between the upper wall and the upper surface to define a space between the upper wall and the upper surface.

[0010] In some embodiments, the pad may include an air pump coupled to the cover, which is configured to draw air from the compartment to create a vacuum within the compartment. The vacuum can increase the wicking rate, which absorbs moisture away from the contact area, and can also further increase the evaporation rate of moisture away from the wicking material.

[0011] Furthermore, this specification discloses a medical system including a Target Temperature Management (TTM) system. The TTM system includes a TTM module configured to provide a TTM liquid at a specified liquid temperature according to TTM therapy, and a thermal contact pad fluidly connected to the TTM module, the pad being configured to receive the TTM liquid from the TTM module and circulate the TTM liquid within the liquid-containing layer of the pad in order to govern the exchange of thermal energy between the TTM liquid and the patient. The TTM module is further configured to provide the patient with a TTM airflow at a specified air temperature according to TTM therapy.

[0012] The TTM airflow can define the thermal energy exchange between the TTM airflow and the patient, and in some embodiments, the temperature of the TTM airflow and the temperature of the TTM liquid are approximately the same. In some embodiments, the TTM airflow passes through a heat exchanger within a TTM module, the heat exchanger is configured to transfer heat between the TTM liquid and the TTM airflow, and in some embodiments, the TTM module includes an air pump configured to pump the TTM airflow through the heat exchanger.

[0013] In some embodiments, the pad is configured to receive TTM airflow. In some embodiments, the pad includes a plurality of liquid flow channels through which TTM liquid circulates and a plurality of airflow channels through which TTM airflow circulates.

[0014] In some embodiments, the airflow channel is configured to absorb moisture away from the patient's pad contact area. In some embodiments, the airflow channel includes a moisture-permeable wall segment extending along the underside of the pad so as to be adjacent to the patient's skin, and the moisture-permeable wall segment includes one or more of a moisture-wicking material or a moisture-permeable membrane. In some embodiments, the TTM airflow moves the moisture from sweat away from the patient.

[0015] In some embodiments, the medical system further includes a ventilator system fluidly connected to the TTM system, wherein the ventilation airflow is delivered to the patient according to ventilation therapy, and the ventilation airflow includes the TTM airflow such that the ventilation airflow governs the exchange of thermal energy between the TTM airflow and the patient.

[0016] In some embodiments, the medical system further includes a ventilated mattress configured on which a patient is placed, wherein (i) the mattress includes a plurality of mattress airflow channels located within the mattress, (ii) the mattress is fluidly connected to a TTM module so that TTM airflow passes through the mattress airflow channels, and (iii) the mattress airflow channels are configured within the mattress so that the TTM airflow passing through them defines the thermal energy exchange between the TTM airflow and the patient. In some embodiments, the mattress is configured to conform to the shape of the patient in order to define the thermal contact area between the mattress and the patient. In further embodiments, the mattress includes one or more fastening devices configured to extend a portion of the mattress upward adjacent to one or more sides of the patient in order to further define the thermal contact area between the mattress and the patient. In some embodiments, the mattress includes a pre-formed recess configured to receive the patient.

[0017] This specification also discloses a mattress ventilation system including a ventilation control module configured to provide ventilation air at a specified temperature. The ventilation control module includes an air pump configured to produce a flow of ventilation air, a chiller configured to cool the ventilation air, and a heater for warming the ventilation air.

[0018] The system further includes a mattress fluidly connected to a TTM module, the mattress configured to receive ventilated air from the TTM module. The mattress includes multiple airflow channels located within the mattress, the airflow channels configured within the mattress such that, during use, the flow of ventilated air governs the exchange of thermal energy between the ventilated air and the patient placed on the mattress.

[0019] In some embodiments, the mattress is configured to conform to the patient's shape in order to define the thermal contact area between the mattress and the patient. The mattress may also include one or more fastening devices configured to extend a portion of the mattress upward adjacent to one or more sides of the patient in order to further define the thermal contact area between the mattress and the patient. The mattress may also include a pre-formed recess configured to receive the patient.

[0020] This specification also discloses a method for exchanging thermal energy with a patient. This method includes (i) attaching a thermal contact pad to the patient, (ii) circulating a liquid from a target temperature management (TTM) module within the liquid-containing layer of the pad, wherein the liquid has a specified liquid temperature according to TTM therapy and the liquid-containing layer has defined upper and lower surfaces, and (iii) providing an airflow to the patient, wherein the airflow has a specified air temperature according to target temperature management therapy.

[0021] In some embodiments of this method, the pad includes a plurality of openings extending from the top surface to the bottom surface through a liquid-containing layer, the openings including a wicking material disposed inside, and the method further includes absorbing moisture by moving it away from the patient through the openings via the wicking material.

[0022] In some embodiments of the method, providing an air flow to the patient includes circulating an air flow through the air channels of the pad, the air channels being in fluid communication with the patient's pad contact area, and the method further includes wicking sweat moisture away from the patient via the air flow through the air channels.

[0023] In some embodiments of the method, providing an air flow to the patient includes providing ventilated air to the patient via a ventilator, the ventilated air passing through a TTM module to define the air temperature.

[0024] In some embodiments of the method, providing an air flow to the patient includes passing an air flow through a plurality of air flow channels within a mattress for the patient, and in some embodiments, the air flow passes through a TTM module to define the air temperature.

[0025] A more specific description of the disclosure is made by reference to the specific embodiments shown in the accompanying drawings. It should be understood that these drawings only show typical embodiments of the invention and should not be regarded as limiting its scope. Exemplary embodiments of the invention are described and explained with additional specificity and detail by using the accompanying drawings.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0026] [Figure 1] A diagram showing a patient and a Target Temperature Management (TTM) system for cooling or warming the patient, according to some embodiments. [Figure 2] A hydraulic schematic diagram showing the TTM system of FIG. 1, according to some embodiments. [Figure 3] A block diagram showing various elements of the console of the TTM module of FIG. 1, according to some embodiments. [Figure 4A] A top view showing the thermal contact pad of FIG. 1, according to some embodiments. [Figure 4B]A side cross-sectional view showing the thermal contact pad of Figure 4A cut along the cutting line 4B-4B according to several embodiments. [Figure 5] A side cross-sectional view of the thermal contact pad shown in Figure 4A, combined with a cover that extends over the thermal contact pad, according to several embodiments. [Figure 6A] Several embodiments show a patient and a target temperature control (TTM) system for cooling or heating the patient, the TTM system further providing a TTM airflow to a thermal contact pad. [Figure 6B] A portion of the hydraulic schematic diagram in Figure 2, which further includes an airflow circuit according to several embodiments, is shown. [Figure 6C] A top view showing the thermal contact pad of Figure 6A according to several embodiments. [Figure 6D] A side cross-sectional view of the thermal contact pad of Figure 6C, cut along the cutting line 6D-6D according to several embodiments. [Figure 7A] Figures 1-3 illustrate patient and medical systems, including target temperature control (TTM) systems combined with ventilator systems in several embodiments. [Figure 7B] A diagram showing a portion of the hydraulic schematic diagram of Figure 2, further including a ventilation airflow circuit according to several embodiments. [Figure 8] Figures 1-3 illustrate patient and medical systems, including target temperature control (TTM) systems combined with mattress ventilation systems, according to several embodiments. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0027] Before certain specific embodiments are disclosed in more detail, it should be understood that certain embodiments disclosed herein do not limit the scope of the concepts provided herein. It should also be understood that certain embodiments disclosed herein may have features that are easily separable from a particular embodiment and which, at their discretion, can be combined with or substituted for features of any of the many other embodiments disclosed herein.

[0028] With regard to the terminology used herein, it should be understood that the terms are for the purpose of describing certain specific embodiments and do not limit the scope of the concepts provided herein. Ordinal numbers (e.g., first, second, third, etc.) are generally used to distinguish or identify different features or steps within a group of multiple features or processes and do not provide a sequential or numerical limitation. For example, the "first," "second," and "third" features or steps do not necessarily have to appear in that order, and a particular embodiment containing such features or steps does not necessarily have to be limited to three features or steps. Labels such as "left," "right," "up," "down," "front," and "back" are used for convenience and do not, for example, imply a specific fixed position, orientation, or direction. Instead, such notations are used to reflect, for example, a relative position, orientation, or direction. The singular forms "one," "one," and "the said" also include plural references unless explicitly indicated in the context. The terms “including,” “has,” and “having,” as used herein, including in the claims, have the same meaning as the term “comprising.” Furthermore, the terms “or” and “and / or,” as used herein, shall be construed as meaning comprehensively or any one or any combination thereof. For example, “A, B or C” or “A, B and / or C” means “i.e., A only, B only, C only, A and B, A and C, B and C, and any of A, B and C.” An exception to this definition arises only if the combination of elements, components, functions, processes, or actions is in any way essentially mutually exclusive.

[0029] The terms "connected" and "joined" refer to any form of interaction between two or more entities, including mechanical, electrical, magnetic, electromagnetic, fluid, signaling, communication (including radio), and thermal interactions. Two components may be connected or joined to one another even if they are not in direct contact with each other. For example, two components may be joined to each other via an intermediate component.

[0030] Unless otherwise defined, all scientific and technical terms used herein have the same meaning as those commonly understood by those skilled in the art. Figure 1 shows a target temperature management system 100 connected to patient 50 to administer target temperature management (TTM) therapy to patient 50, which may include cooling and / or heating of the patient 50, according to several embodiments. The TTM system 100 includes a TTM module 110, which includes a graphical user interface (GUI) 115 housed in a module housing 111. The TTM system 100 includes a fluid delivery line (FDL) 130 extending from the TTM module 110 to a thermal contact pad (pad) 120 to provide a flow of TTM fluid 112 between the TTM module 110 and the pad 120.

[0031] The TTM system 100 may include one, two, three, four, or more pads 120, and the TTM system 100 may include one, two, three, four, or more fluid delivery lines 130. When in use, the TTM module 110 prepares the TTM fluid 112 for delivery to the pads 120 by heating or cooling the TTM fluid 112 to a specified temperature according to a predetermined TTM therapy. The TTM module 110 circulates the TTM fluid 112 within the pads 120 to facilitate thermal energy exchange with the patient 50. During TTM therapy, the TTM module 110 can continuously control the temperature of the TTM fluid 112 toward a target TTM temperature. In some cases, the target TTM temperature may change during TTM therapy.

[0032] Figure 2 shows the hydraulic circuit diagram of the TTM system 100. The FDL 130 and pad 120 are located outside the housing 111 of the TTM module 110. The TTM module includes various fluid sensors and fluid control devices for preparing and circulating the TTM fluid 112. The fluid subsystem of the TTM module may include a temperature control subsystem 210 and a circulation subsystem 230.

[0033] The temperature control subsystem 210 may include a chiller pump 211 for pumping (recirculating) the TTM fluid 112 through a chiller circuit chiller 212, which includes a chiller 213 and a chiller tank 214. A temperature sensor 215 in the chiller tank 214 is configured to measure the temperature of the TTM fluid 112 in the chiller tank 214. The chiller 213 may be controlled by temperature control logic (see Figure 3), as further described below, to establish a desired temperature for the TTM fluid 112 in the chiller tank 214. In some examples, the temperature of the TTM fluid 112 in the chiller tank 214 may be below the target body temperature for TTM therapy.

[0034] The temperature control subsystem 210 may further include a mixing pump 221 for pumping the TTM fluid 112 through a mixing circuit 222, which includes a chiller tank 214, a circulation tank 224, and a dam 228 positioned between the chiller tank 214 and the circulation tank 224. When the TTM fluid 112 is pumped by the mixing pump 221, it enters the chiller tank 214 and mixes with the TTM fluid 112 in the chiller tank 214. The TTM fluid 112 mixed in the chiller tank 214 flows over the dam 228 into the circulation tank 224. In other words, the mixing circuit 222 mixes the TTM fluid 112 in the chiller tank 214 with the TTM fluid 112 in the circulation tank 224 in order to cool the TTM fluid 112 in the circulation tank 224. A temperature sensor 225 in the circulation tank 224 measures the temperature of the TTM fluid 112 in the circulation tank 224. The temperature control logic can control the mixing pump 221 according to temperature data from the temperature sensor 225 in the circulation tank 224.

[0035] The circulation tank 224 includes a heater 227 for raising the temperature of the TTM fluid 112 in the circulation tank 224, and the heater 227 may be controlled by temperature control logic. In summary, to establish and maintain the temperature of the TTM fluid 112 in the circulation tank 224 at the target body temperature for TTM therapy, the temperature control logic, when executed by a processor (see Figure 3), can receive temperature data from a temperature sensor 215 in the chiller tank and a temperature sensor 225 in the circulation tank 224, and can control the operation of the chiller 213, chiller pump 211, heater 227, and mixing pump 222.

[0036] The circulation subsystem 230 includes a circulation pump 213 for drawing TTM fluid 112 from the circulation tank 224 through a circulation circuit 232, which includes a fluid delivery line 120 and a pad 120 located upstream of the circulation pump 213. The circulation circuit 232 also includes a pressure sensor 237 for representing the pressure of the TTM fluid 112 in the pad 120. The circulation circuit 232 also includes a temperature sensor 235 in the circulation tank 224 for representing the temperature of the TTM fluid 112 entering the pad 120, and a temperature sensor 236 for representing the temperature of the TTM fluid leaving the pad 120. A flow meter 238 is located downstream of the circulation pump 213 to measure the flow rate of the TTM fluid 112 through the circulation circuit 232 before it re-enters the circulation tank 224.

[0037] When in use, the circulation tank 224, which can be vented to the atmosphere, is positioned below (i.e., at a lower height than) the pad 120 so that the pressure inside the pad 120 becomes below atmospheric pressure (i.e., negative pressure) when the fluid flow through the circulation circuit 232 is stopped. The pad 120 is also positioned upstream of the circulation pump 213 to establish further negative pressure inside the pad 120 when the circulation pump 231 is operating. Fluid flow control logic (see Figure 3) can control the operation of the circulation pump 213 to establish and maintain a desired negative pressure inside the pad 120. The supply tank 240 provides TTM fluid 112 to the circulation tank 224 via port 241 to maintain a specified amount of TTM fluid 112 inside the circulation tank 224.

[0038] Figure 3 shows a block diagram illustrating various elements of the TTM module 110 of Figure 1 in several embodiments. The TTM module includes a processor 310 and a console 300, which includes a memory 340 containing a non-temporary computer-readable medium. The logic modules stored in the memory 340 include patient treatment logic 341, fluid temperature control logic 342, and fluid flow control logic 343. The logic modules, when executed by the processor 310, define the operation and function of the TTM module 110.

[0039] The block diagram in Figure 3 shows the fluid sensors 320 described above in relation to Figure 2. Each of the fluid sensors 320 is coupled to the console 300 so that data from the fluid sensors 320 can be used in the execution of the TTM module operation. The fluid control device 330 is also shown in Figure 3 coupled to the console 300. Thus, the logic module can control the operation of the fluid control device 330, as will be further described below.

[0040] The patient treatment logic 341 may receive input from the clinician via the GUI 115 to establish operating parameters according to a predetermined TTM therapy. The operating parameters may include a target temperature for the TTM fluid 112, which may include a time-based target temperature profile. In some embodiments, the fluid temperature control logic 342 may also define other fluid temperatures for the TTM fluid 112 in the TTM module 110, such as the target temperature of the TTM fluid 112 in the chiller tank 214.

[0041] The fluid temperature control logic 342 can perform operations to establish and maintain the temperature of the TTM fluid 112 delivered to the pad 120 according to a predefined target temperature profile. Certain temperature control operations may include cooling the TTM fluid 112 in the chiller tank 214. The fluid temperature control logic 342 can use temperature data from the chiller tank temperature sensor 215 to control the operation of the chiller 213 in order to establish and maintain the temperature of the TTM fluid 112 in the chiller tank 214.

[0042] Another temperature control operation may include cooling the TTM fluid 112 in the circulation tank 224. The fluid temperature control logic 342 may use temperature data from the circulation tank temperature sensor 225 to control the operation of the mixing pump 221 in order to lower the temperature of the TTM fluid 112 in the circulation tank 224.

[0043] Another temperature control operation may include heating the TTM fluid 112 in the circulation tank 224. The fluid temperature control logic 342 may use temperature data from the circulation tank temperature sensor 225 to control the operation of the heater 227 in order to raise the temperature of the TTM fluid 112 in the circulation tank 224.

[0044] The fluid flow control logic 343 can control the operation of the circulation pump 231. Since the thermal energy exchange rate is at least partially determined by the flow rate of the TTM fluid 112 through the pad 120, the fluid flow control logic 343 may, in some embodiments, control the operation of the circulation pump 231 according to a predetermined thermal energy exchange rate for TTM therapy.

[0045] The console 300 may be equipped with a wireless communication function 350 to facilitate wireless communication with external devices. The power supply 360 supplies power to the console 300. Figure 4A shows a top view of an exemplary pad 120 attached to patient 50, which includes an FDL 130 through which TTM fluid 112 flows in and out of the pad 120. The pad 120 defines an upper surface 401 facing away from patient 50 and a lower surface 402 configured for contact, including thermal contact, with patient 50.

[0046] The pad 120 can generally define a rectangular shape. In other embodiments, the pad 120 may define a shape other than a rectangle, such as a circular, elliptical, or a shape that matches or aligns with the shape of a particular body part. In the illustrated embodiment, the pad 120 generally defines a flat shape when free, i.e., when no external force is acting on it. In other embodiments, the pad 120 may define a curved shape when free to more effectively adapt to a non-flat body part, such as a leg.

[0047] The pad 120 may be configured to conform to protrusions and / or depressions along the surface of the patient 50. For example, the pad 120 may be structurally flexible in one or more directions so as to extend to cover protrusions and / or fill depressions on the patient's surface so that the pad 120 can define thermal contact with the patient's uneven skin surface. Figure 4A shows an exemplary arrangement of a flow channel 425 extending across the pad 120. The TTM fluid 112 flows along the flow channel 425 to define a heat sink or heat source to the patient 50 according to the temperature of the TTM fluid 112.

[0048] The pad 120 includes a plurality of openings 410 extending between the upper surface 401 and the lower surface 402 of the pad 120. In some embodiments, the openings 410 may be configured to accommodate airflow between the upper surface 401 and the lower surface 402 in order to define the breathability of the pad 120, although breathability is not essential. In some embodiments, the openings 410 may also be configured to accommodate the movement of moisture between the upper surface 401 and the lower surface 402 (i.e., moisture wicking).

[0049] The opening 410 can be formed in various shapes when viewed from the top surface 401. In some embodiments, the opening 410 may include a slot extending between opposing lateral surfaces of the pad 120. The opening 410 may extend partially across the pad 120 or completely across it. In some embodiments, the opening 410 may extend to the periphery of the pad 420. In some embodiments, the opening 410 may include a series of holes (e.g., round holes) arranged randomly or in a predetermined pattern across the pad 120.

[0050] The opening 410 may define a storage area 411 that constitutes part of the entire area 404 of the pad 120. In some embodiments, the storage area 411 may include up to 10 percent, 10-20 percent, 20-30 percent, 30-40 percent, 40-50 percent, or more than 50 percent of the entire area 404.

[0051] Material 415 may be placed within the opening 410. Material 415 may be configured for breathability and / or moisture wicking. In some examples of TTM therapy, the patient may sweat over the contact area of ​​the heat contact pad. Sweating may cause discomfort to the patient, irritation to the patient's skin, and / or denaturation of the hydrogel placed over the underside of the pad.

[0052] In some embodiments, material 415 may provide breathability to the contact area of ​​the pad 120 in order to reduce perspiration of the patient 50. In some embodiments, material 415 may be configured to absorb moisture (e.g., sweat) away from the contact area. In further embodiments, material 415 may be configured for both breathability and moisture wicking.

[0053] The composition of material 415 may include wool, polyester, polypropylene, nylon, or any other material having wicking properties. In some embodiments, the material may be constructed to promote moisture wicking by capillary action of hollow fibers.

[0054] Figure 4B shows a side section view of a portion of the pad 120 cut along the cutting line 4B-4B. The pad 120 may be formed of one or more layers. The fluid-containing layer 420 is fluid-connected to the FDL 130 to facilitate the circulation of the TTM fluid 112 within the fluid-containing layer 420 along the channel 425. The fluid-containing layer 420, through which the TTM fluid 112 circulates, defines a heat sink / heat source for the patient 50 according to the temperature of the TTM fluid 112.

[0055] The pad 120 may include a thermal conductive layer 430 positioned between the fluid-containing layer 420 and the patient 50. The thermal conductive layer 430 is configured to facilitate the transfer of thermal energy between the fluid-containing layer 420 and the patient 50 via thermal conduction. The thermal conductive layer 430 may be attached to the fluid-containing layer 420 along its underside. The thermal conductive layer 430 may be conformable to provide close contact with the patient 50. In other words, the thermal conductive layer 430 may conform to the contour of the patient 50 to prevent a space or air pocket between the thermal conductive layer 430 and the patient 50. In some embodiments, the thermal conductive layer 430 may include a hydrogel 431.

[0056] As shown in Figure 4B, the opening 410 extends between the upper opening 410A and the lower opening 410B. In some embodiments, the upper opening 410A and the lower opening 410B may be similar in shape and size (e.g., area). In other embodiments, the upper opening 410A and the lower opening 410B may differ in shape and size to optimize air permeability, moisture wicking ability, and / or thermal energy exchange. For example, the lower opening 410B may be sized to allow moisture 452 (sweat from the patient 50) to enter the material 415 while minimizing the loss of thermal energy exchange through the thermal conduction layer 430. Similarly, the upper opening 410A may be sized to promote the evaporation 455B of moisture 452 from the material 415 to the environment 451. Thus, the upper opening 410A may be larger in size / area than the lower opening 410B. In some embodiments, the evaporation of moisture 452 from the material 415 to the environment 451 may be enhanced by utilizing the natural convection of air adjacent to the upper surface 401 of the pad 120 due to the temperature difference between the fluid-containing layer 420 and the environment 451.

[0057] In some embodiments, the pad 120 may be compressible so that the volume of the opening 410 changes in response to the movement of the patient 50. The change in volume may constitute a pumping action to increase the entry 455A of moisture 452 from the patient 50 into the material 415 and the discharge of moisture 452 from the wicking material 415 to the environment 451 by evaporation 455B.

[0058] Figure 5 shows a cover 520 that may be positioned to cover the pad 120 while it is in use. In some embodiments, the pad 120 may include the cover 520, i.e., the cover 520 may be attached to the pad 120. The cover 520 may enhance moisture evaporation from the pad 120. The cover 520 may define a space 521 between the top surface 401 of the pad 120 and the cover 520. The cover 520 may be formed of a sheet material, such as a flexible fabric.

[0059] In some embodiments, the cover 520 may include a support structure 528 to prevent the cover 520 from collapsing, i.e., to maintain the space 521. The space 521, in combination with a plurality of vents 525 extending through the cover wall 527, can facilitate airflow along the top surface 401, including airflow defined by natural convection. The cover wall 527 may include an upper wall 527A and a circumferential side wall 527B.

[0060] In some embodiments, the cover 520 may extend downward to the skin surface of the patient 50 adjacent to the periphery of the pad 120 to define a compartment 523 for housing the pad 120. In further embodiments, the cover 520 may include an air pump 530, such as a fan. The air pump 530 may facilitate a forced airflow into or out of the compartment 523 to define a forced airflow adjacent to the upper surface 401 of the pad 120 to increase the evaporation rate of moisture 452 (see Figure 4B). In some embodiments, the air pump 530 may define a negative pressure within the compartment 523, which may further increase the wicking rate of moisture from the patient and / or the evaporation rate of moisture 452.

[0061] Figure 6A shows a second embodiment, which is the TTM system 600. System 600 may be similar to the TTM system 100 in Figures 1 to 3 in some respects, including functionality, fluid components, and console components. System 600 includes a system module 110 which further includes an airflow circuit 670 and air control logic 643. System 600 also includes a thermal contact pad 620. In some embodiments, system 600 may include a plurality of pads 620. System 600 includes a fluid delivery line 130 coupled to the system module 110 through which the TTM fluid 112 flows. System 600 further includes an air delivery line 630 through which air 612 flows between the airflow circuit 670 and the pads 620, which are housed within the system module 110. The airflow control logic 643 is included in the system module 110 as a component of the console 300 (Figure 3).

[0062] Figure 6B shows a portion of the hydraulic circuit diagram of Figure 2, further including an airflow circuit 670 incorporated into the system module 110 and housed within the module housing 111. The airflow circuit 670 generally includes an air pump 675, a heat exchanger 673, and a pressure regulator 676. The air pump 675 is configured to pump air 612 through the airflow circuit 670, including inflow and outflow to the pad 620 via an air delivery line 630. The pressure regulator 676 may be located at any position along the airflow circuit 670, and in some embodiments, the pressure regulator 676 is configured to make the air pressure in the pad 620 negative (i.e., a vacuum). In some embodiments, the pressure regulator 676 may provide air to flow into and / or out of the airflow circuit 670. More specifically, the pressure regulator 676 may include an air pump to move air 612 into or out of the airflow circuit 670. In some embodiments, the airflow circuit 670 may include a pressure sensor 677. In some embodiments, one or more of the air pump 675, pressure regulator 676, or pressure sensor 677 may be communicatively coupled to the console 300 so that the air control logic 643 can define active control of airflow and / or air pressure.

[0063] The heat exchanger 673 is coupled to the circulation circuit 232 (see Figure 2) of the TTM module 110. In some embodiments, the heat exchanger 673 may be a liquid-air heat exchanger coupled between the TTM fluid 112 and the air 612 such that the temperature of the air 612 leaving the heat exchanger 673 is the same as or close to the temperature of the TTM fluid 112. Although not required, the heat exchanger 673 may be located in the circulation tank 224 of the TTM module 110.

[0064] Figure 6C is a top view of the pad 620, schematic of exemplary flow of TTM fluid 112 and air 612. Figure 6D is a cross-sectional view of a portion of the pad 620 cut along the cutting line 6D-6D. The pad 620 exchanges TTM module 110 and TTM fluid 112 via FDL 130, and the pad 620 exchanges TTM module 110 and air 612 via air delivery line 630. The TTM fluid 112 circulates within the pad 620 through a series of flow channels 625. Similarly, the air 612 flows through the pad 620 through a series of flow channels 635. The flow channels 625 and 635 can define any preferred configuration extending across the pad 620. The structure of the pad 620, or more specifically the structure of channels 625, 635, can be configured to adapt to the negative pressure of the TTM fluid 112 and air 612 without collapsing. Since the air 612 and the TTM fluid have similar temperatures, the heat exchange with the patient 50 can be determined by both the temperature of the air 612 and the temperature of the TTM fluid 112.

[0065] Figure 6D shows a cross-sectional view of a portion of pad 620 cut along the cutting line 6D-6D, with pad 620 attached to patient 50. As described above, in some cases of TTM therapy, the patient may sweat over the contact area of ​​the thermal contact pad. Sweating can cause discomfort to the patient, irritation to the patient's skin, and / or denaturation of the hydrogel positioned over the underside of the pad. The flow of air 612 through channel 635 facilitates a reduction in sweating in patient 50. The flow of air 612 through channel 635 facilitates a reduction in the moisture 652 of sweat accumulated between pad 620 and the patient's skin.

[0066] In some embodiments, material 615 may be placed within the channel 635. Material 615 may be configured for breathability and / or moisture wicking 652. As illustrated, in some embodiments, material 615 may extend only over a portion of the cross-sectional area of ​​the channel 635 so that air 612 can flow freely through the portion of the cross-sectional area of ​​the channel 635 not occupied by material 615. In other embodiments, material 615 may extend over the entire cross-section of the channel 635, and air 612 may flow through material 615. In some embodiments, material 615 may provide breathability to the contact area of ​​the pad 120 to reduce perspiration of the patient 50. In some embodiments, material 615 may be configured to absorb moisture, keeping moisture 652 (e.g., sweat) away from the contact area. In further embodiments, material 615 may be configured for both breathability and moisture wicking.

[0067] The composition of material 615 may include wool, polyester, polypropylene, nylon, or any other material having wicking properties. In some embodiments, the material may be constructed to promote moisture wicking by capillary action of hollow fibers.

[0068] In some embodiments, the pad may include a semipermeable membrane 616 in addition to or instead of the material 615. The membrane 616 may be positioned along the underside of the channel 635 so as to be positioned between the air 615 and the patient's skin. The membrane 616 may allow the movement of moisture 652 across the membrane 616. In some embodiments, the membrane 616 may be omitted so that the material 615 can be in direct contact with the skin.

[0069] During use, the airflow 612 can draw moisture 652 away from the patient's skin. More specifically, the patient's sweat can pass through the membrane 616 and material 615 to reach the air 612. The air 612 can increase the rate of evaporation of moisture 652 from the membrane 616 and / or material 615 to the air 612. In some embodiments, both material 615 and membrane 616 may be omitted so that the air 616 flows in direct contact with the patient's skin.

[0070] In some embodiments, the pad 620 may be compressible so that the flow area of ​​the channel 635 decreases or increases in response to the movement of the patient 50. The decrease and increase in the flow area of ​​the channel 635 may define a pumping action to enhance the entry of moisture 652 into the wicking material 615 through the membrane 616 and the discharge of moisture 652 from the wicking material 615 via the air 612.

[0071] Figure 7A shows the medical system 700. System 700 generally includes the TTM system 100 shown in Figures 1-3, coupled with a ventilator system 705, which includes a ventilator module 710, ventilator tubing 730, and a ventilator mask 711. System 700 is configured to improve TTM therapy by specifying the temperature of the ventilation air 712 to match the temperature of the TTM fluid 112. An airflow circuit 770 is incorporated into the TTM module 110 and connected to the ventilator tubing 730 so that the air 712 from the ventilator module 710 flows through the airflow circuit 770 before flowing to the patient 50.

[0072] Figure 7B shows a portion of the hydraulic circuit diagram of Figure 2, further including an airflow circuit 770 incorporated into the system module 110 and housed within the module housing 111. The airflow circuit 770 generally includes a heat exchanger 773 coupled to the circulation circuit 232 (see Figure 2) of the TTM module 110. In some embodiments, the heat exchanger 773 may be a liquid-air heat exchanger coupled between the TTM fluid 112 and the air 712 such that the temperature of the air 712 exiting the heat exchanger 773 is the same as or close to the temperature of the TTM fluid 112. Although not required, the heat exchanger 773 may be located within the circulation tank 224 of the TTM module 110, as shown.

[0073] During use, the ventilator module 110 prepares air 712 according to the ventilation therapy for patient 50. The TTM module 110 further prepares air 712 (i.e., specifies the temperature of air 712) to assist the TTM therapy, i.e., to enhance heat energy exchange. More specifically, air 712 from the ventilator module 710 flows through the TTM module 110 (i.e., the heat exchanger 773) and then flows to patient 50. The air 712 then flows from patient 50 back to the ventilator module 710 to complete the ventilation circuit.

[0074] Figure 8 shows a TTM system 800, which includes a TTM system 100 and a mattress ventilation system 805. In some embodiments, the mattress ventilation system 805 may be a separate, standalone system from the TTM system 100. The mattress ventilation system 805 is generally configured to facilitate thermal energy exchange between the mattress 820 and the patient 50 according to the temperature of the air flowing through the mattress 820. The system 805 generally includes a ventilation module 810 coupled to the mattress 820 via an air delivery line 830. The ventilation module 810 generally includes an air pump 831, a heater 827, and a chiller 813 so that the ventilation module 810 can provide warm or cool air to the mattress 820. The air pump 831 causes air 812 to flow through the heater 827 and / or chiller 813, respectively, to raise or lower the temperature of the air 812. The air pump 831 further causes air 812 to flow in and out of the mattress 820 via the air delivery line 830. The ventilation module 810 may further include components (not shown) for controlling the temperature of the air 812, such as a temperature sensor, a microprocessor, logic, and a power converter.

[0075] In some embodiments, the mattress ventilation system 805 may be coupled with the TTM system 100. More specifically, the air delivery line 830 may be connected to an airflow circuit 870 incorporated into the TTM module 110. The airflow circuit 870 may be similar in some respects to the airflow circuit 770 in Figure 7B. Thus, the airflow circuit 870 can dictate the temperature of the air 812, either entirely or partially. In such embodiments, the heater 827 and / or chiller 813 may be omitted from the ventilation module 810, i.e., the mattress ventilation system 805 may rely solely on the TTM module 110 to dictate the temperature of the air 812.

[0076] In further embodiments, the airflow circuit 770 may be similar to the airflow circuit 670 in Figure 6B. In such embodiments, the ventilation module 810 may be omitted entirely. More specifically, the TTM module 110 may define the airflow of air 812 entering and leaving the mattress 820, in combination with defining the temperature of the air 812.

[0077] Figure 8 shows a cutout in the mattress 820, which indicates a number of channels 835 located within the mattress 820 through which air 812 can flow. The channels 835 can define any preferred arrangement across the mattress 820 to establish the temperature of the mattress 820 along the upper surface 821 of the mattress 820, so that the mattress 820 can facilitate heat exchange between the patient 50 and the air 812.

[0078] In some embodiments, the mattress 820 may include an air circulation layer 836 containing channels 835 and a cushion layer 837 positioned along the underside of the circulation layer 836. The circulation layer 837 may be configured to prevent the channels 835 from collapsing when a patient 50 is placed on the mattress 820. The circulation layer 837 may have sufficient flexibility to conform to the shape of the patient 50, such as partially wrapping around the patient 50's legs or torso. In some embodiments, the pressure of the air 812 in the channels 835 may contribute to the conformability of the mattress 820, for example, as in an air mattress.

[0079] The cushion layer 837 may be configured to define a support for the circulation layer 836. In some embodiments, the cushion layer 837 may be made of a compressible foam material such that a depression can be defined in the cushion layer 837 by the weight of the patient 50 in order to improve the fit of the mattress 820 to the patient 50. In some embodiments, the mattress 820 may define a flat top surface 821 in the free state, i.e., without the patient 50. In other embodiments, the mattress 820 may define a pre-formed shape (e.g., a depression) in order to improve the fit of the mattress 820 to the patient 50.

[0080] In some embodiments, the mattress 820 may include one or more fastening devices 823 (e.g., straps) for securing the mattress 820 or a portion thereof to the patient 50. The fastening devices 823 may be configured to modify the shape of the top surface 821 so that a portion of the mattress partially wraps around the patient 50 (e.g., extending upward along the side of the patient 50). To enhance heat exchange by increasing the contact area between the mattress 820 and the patient 50, a portion of the mattress may be partially wrapped around the patient's legs or torso by straps, for example.

[0081] Those skilled in the art will likely be able to utilize the invention to its fullest extent using the foregoing description without further detail. The claims and embodiments disclosed herein are merely descriptive and illustrative, and should be construed as not limiting the scope of this disclosure in any way. It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that, with the help of this disclosure, modifications can be made to the details of the embodiments described above without departing from the basic principles of the disclosure herein. In other words, various modifications and improvements to the embodiments specifically disclosed above are within the scope of the appended claims. Furthermore, the order of steps or operations of the methods disclosed herein can be modified by those skilled in the art without departing from the scope of this disclosure. In other words, the order or use of a particular step or operation can be modified unless that particular order of steps or operations is necessary for the proper operation of the embodiment. Accordingly, the scope of the invention is defined by the following claims and their equivalents. The technical concepts that can be understood from the above embodiments and modifications are described below. [Note 1] It is a medical pad, A fluid-containing layer configured to circulate the target body temperature (TTM) fluid internally in order to define the thermal energy exchange between the TTM fluid and the patient, Multiple openings extending through the fluid-containing layer from the upper surface to the lower surface of the fluid-containing layer, A wicking material disposed inside the opening, configured to absorb moisture and keep it away from the patient's pad contact area. A medical pad equipped with [a specific feature / feature]. [Note 2] The wicking material is the pad described in Appendix 1, extending between the upper surface and the lower surface. [Note 3] The pad described in Appendix 1 or 2, The aforementioned opening defines an upper opening region and a lower opening region. The upper opening region is larger than the lower opening region of the pad. [Note 4] The pad according to any one of the appendices 1 to 3, further comprising a hydrogel disposed along the lower surface of the fluid-containing layer. [Note 5] The pad described in any one of the appendices 1 to 4 further comprises a cover, The cover is, An upper wall extending over the upper surface of the fluid-containing layer, When the pad is attached to the patient, the peripheral wall is bonded to the upper wall to define a compartment for the fluid-containing layer. Includes pads. [Note 6] The pad according to Appendix 5, wherein the upper wall includes a plurality of ventilation holes extending through the upper wall. [Note 7] The pad according to appendix 5 or 6, wherein the cover further includes a support structure disposed between the upper wall and the upper surface, defining a space between the upper wall and the upper surface. [Note 8] The pad described in any one of the appendices 5 to 7 includes an air pump coupled to the cover, the air pump being configured to draw air from the compartment in order to establish a vacuum within the compartment. [Note 9] The vacuum increases the wicking rate of moisture from the contact area, as described in Appendix 8. [Note 10] The pad according to appendix 8 or 9, wherein the vacuum increases the rate of evaporation of moisture away from the wicking material. [Note 11] A pad as described in any one of the appendices 1 to 10, The pad is compressible such that the volume of the opening changes according to the patient's movement. A pad in which the change in volume increases the wicking rate of moisture from the contact area and the evaporation rate of moisture moving away from the wicking material. [Note 12] It is a medical system, A target temperature control (TTM) system, A TTM module configured to provide TTM liquid at a specified liquid temperature according to TTM therapy, A thermal contact pad fluidly connected to the TTM module, It is configured to receive the TTM liquid from the TTM module, A thermal contact pad configured to circulate the TTM liquid within the liquid-containing layer of the pad in order to define the thermal energy exchange between the TTM liquid and the patient, Includes target temperature control, A medical system wherein the TTM module is further configured to provide the patient with a TTM airflow at a specified air temperature according to the TTM therapy. [Note 13] The system as described in Appendix 12, wherein the temperature of the TTM airflow and the temperature of the TTM liquid are approximately the same. [Note 14] During use, the TTM airflow defines the thermal energy exchange between the TTM airflow and the patient, as described in Appendix 12 or 13. [Note 15] The system according to Appendix 12, wherein the TTM airflow passes through a heat exchanger in the TTM module, and the heat exchanger is configured to transfer heat between the TTM liquid and the TTM airflow. [Note 16] The system described in Appendix 15, wherein the TTM module includes an air pump configured to pump the TTM airflow through the heat exchanger. [Note 17] The system according to any one of the appendices 12 to 16, wherein the pad is configured to receive the TTM airflow. [Note 18] A system described in any one of the appendices 12 to 17, The aforementioned pad is Multiple liquid flow channels through which the TTM liquid circulates, Multiple airflow channels through which the TTM airflow circulates A system that includes this. [Note 19] The system according to Appendix 18, wherein the airflow channel is configured to absorb moisture and keep it away from the patient's pad contact area. [Note 20] The system according to Appendix 18 or 19, wherein the airflow channel includes a water-permeable wall segment extending along the underside of the pad so as to be adjacent to the patient's skin. [Note 21] The system according to Appendix 20, wherein the moisture-permeable wall segment comprises one or more of a moisture-wicking material or a moisture-permeable membrane. [Note 22] The system according to any one of the appendices 19 to 21, wherein, when in use, the TTM airflow moves the moisture from sweat away from the patient. [Note 23] The system described in any one of the appendices 12 to 15 is further: The TTM system is equipped with a ventilator system that is fluidly connected to it. A ventilation airflow delivered to a patient in accordance with ventilation therapy, comprising the TTM airflow such that the ventilation airflow defines the thermal energy exchange between the TTM airflow and the patient. [Note 24] The system described in any one of the appendices 12 to 15 is further: A ventilation mattress, comprising a ventilation mattress configured to place the patient on the ventilation mattress, The mattress includes a plurality of mattress airflow channels arranged within the mattress, The mattress is fluidly connected to the TTM module such that the TTM airflow passes through the mattress airflow channel. The system is configured such that the mattress airflow channel is configured within the mattress such that the TTM airflow passing through the mattress airflow channel defines the thermal energy exchange between the TTM airflow and the patient. [Note 25] The system according to Appendix 24, wherein the mattress is configured to conform to the shape of the patient in order to define the thermal contact area between the mattress and the patient. [Note 26] The system according to Appendix 24 or 25, wherein the mattress includes one or more fastening devices configured to extend a portion of the mattress upward adjacent to one or more sides of the patient in order to define a thermal contact area between the mattress and the patient. [Note 27] The system according to any one of the appendices 24 to 26, wherein the mattress includes a pre-formed recess configured to receive the patient. [Note 28] A mattress ventilation system, A ventilation control module configured to provide ventilated air at a specified temperature, An air pump configured to create a flow of ventilation air, A chiller configured to cool the aforementioned ventilation air, A heater for warming the aforementioned ventilation air and A ventilation control module including, The module is connected to a mattress and The mattress is configured to receive the ventilation air from the module, The mattress includes a plurality of airflow channels arranged within the mattress, A mattress ventilation system in which the airflow channels are configured within the mattress such that, during use, the flow of ventilation air governs the exchange of thermal energy between the ventilation air and the patient placed on the mattress. [Note 29] The system according to Appendix 28, wherein the mattress is configured to conform to the shape of the patient in order to define the thermal contact area between the mattress and the patient. [Note 30] The system according to Appendix 28 or 29, wherein the mattress includes one or more fastening devices configured to extend a portion of the mattress upward adjacent to one or more sides of the patient in order to define a thermal contact area between the mattress and the patient. [Note 31] The system according to any one of the appendices 28 to 30, wherein the mattress includes a pre-formed recess configured to receive the patient.

Claims

1. It is a medical pad, A fluid-containing layer configured to circulate the TTM fluid internally in order to define the thermal energy exchange between the TTM fluid and the patient, Multiple openings extending through the fluid-containing layer from the upper surface to the lower surface of the fluid-containing layer, A wicking material disposed inside the opening, configured to absorb moisture and keep it away from the patient's pad contact area. Equipped with, The aforementioned opening defines an upper opening region and a lower opening region. The upper opening region is larger than the lower opening region of the pad.

2. The pad according to claim 1, wherein the wicking material extends between the upper surface and the lower surface.

3. The pad according to claim 1 or 2, further comprising a hydrogel disposed along the lower surface of the fluid-containing layer.

4. The pad according to any one of claims 1 to 3 further comprises a cover, The cover is, An upper wall extending over the upper surface of the fluid-containing layer, When the pad is attached to the patient, the peripheral wall is bonded to the upper wall to define a compartment for the fluid-containing layer. Includes pads.

5. It is a medical pad, A fluid-containing layer configured to circulate the TTM fluid internally in order to define the thermal energy exchange between the TTM fluid and the patient, Multiple openings extending through the fluid-containing layer from the upper surface to the lower surface of the fluid-containing layer, A wicking material disposed inside the opening, configured to absorb moisture and keep it away from the patient's pad contact area. The cover and, Equipped with, The aforementioned cover is An upper wall extending over the upper surface of the fluid-containing layer, When the pad is attached to the patient, the peripheral wall is bonded to the upper wall to define a compartment for the fluid-containing layer. Includes, The upper wall includes a plurality of ventilation holes extending through the upper wall, forming a pad.

6. The pad according to claim 4 or 5, wherein the cover further includes a support structure disposed between the upper wall and the upper surface, defining a space between the upper wall and the upper surface.

7. The pad according to any one of claims 4 to 6, comprising an air pump coupled to the cover, the air pump being configured to draw air from the compartment in order to establish a vacuum within the compartment.

8. The pad according to claim 7, wherein the vacuum increases the wicking rate of moisture from the contact area.

9. The pad according to claim 7 or 8, wherein the vacuum increases the rate of evaporation of moisture away from the wicking material.

10. A pad according to any one of claims 1 to 9, The pad is compressible such that the volume of the opening changes according to the patient's movement. A pad in which the change in volume increases the wicking rate of moisture from the contact area and the evaporation rate of moisture moving away from the wicking material.

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