Treatment powder applicator

Abstract

A therapeutic powder applicator and method of operating the same are described. In some embodiments, a first gas stream can flow through a distal porous portion of a chamber containing a therapeutic powder. The gas can fluidize and entrain the therapeutic powder, and cause the entrained powder to flow through an outlet in fluid communication with the chamber.

Description

[0001] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0002] This application claims the benefit of priority under 35 U.S.C. §119(e) to U.S. Provisional Application Serial No. 63 / 046,176, filed on June 30, 2020, the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0003] The disclosed embodiments relate to therapeutic powder applicators and related methods of use. Background Art

[0004] Powder applicators are used in many different applications to apply various types of powders to a desired surface, including delivering therapeutic powders to a desired location on a subject for therapeutic purposes. The powders delivered using these applicators tend to be lightweight, low-density powders with a Hausner ratio between 1.00 and 1.18. Some applicators fluidize the powder by directing a gas stream onto the top free surface of the powder - wherein, during operation, all lumps are arranged vertically below the applied gas stream - or by directing the gas stream through the entire mass of particles, such as from the side opposite the opening in the chamber containing the powder. However, these types of structures may not be able to fully fluidize powders that are more difficult to fluidize than those described above. Summary of the Invention

[0005] In one embodiment, a therapeutic powder applicator includes a chamber configured to contain a therapeutic powder, wherein at least a distal portion of the chamber includes a plurality of apertures; a first pressurized gas source in fluid communication with the chamber through the plurality of apertures in the distal portion of the chamber; and an outlet in fluid communication with the chamber.

[0006] In one embodiment, a therapeutic powder applicator comprises a chamber configured to contain a therapeutic powder, wherein at least a distal portion of the chamber comprises a plurality of apertures; and a first gas inlet; and an outlet in fluid communication with the chamber, wherein the first gas inlet is in fluid communication with the outlet through the plurality of apertures in the distal portion of the chamber.

[0007] In one embodiment, a method of applying a therapeutic powder includes flowing a first gas stream through a plurality of apertures in a distal portion of a chamber containing the therapeutic powder; entraining the therapeutic powder in the first gas stream; and flowing the entrained therapeutic powder through an outlet in fluid communication with the chamber.

[0008] It should be understood that the aforementioned concepts and the additional concepts discussed below can be arranged in any suitable combination, as the present disclosure is not limited in this respect. In addition, other advantages and novel features of the present disclosure will become apparent from the following detailed description of various non-limiting embodiments when considered in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0009] The accompanying drawings are not intended to be drawn to scale. In the accompanying drawings, each identical or nearly identical component illustrated in various figures may be represented by a like reference numeral. For clarity, not every component will be labeled in every figure. In the accompanying drawings:

[0010] Figure 1 is a cross-sectional view of one embodiment of a powder applicator;

[0011] Figure 2 is a cross-sectional view of one embodiment of a powder applicator;

[0012] Figure 3 is a cross-sectional view of one embodiment of a powder applicator nozzle;

[0013] Figures 4A to 4C is a cross-sectional view of one embodiment of a powder applicator including two flow paths in different orientations;

[0014] Figure 5 is a cross-sectional view of one embodiment of a powder applicator including two flow paths and a valve;

[0015] Figure 6 is a cross-sectional view of one embodiment of a powder applicator;

[0016] Figure 7 is a cross-sectional view of one embodiment of a powder applicator having two gas sources;

[0017] Figure 8 is a photograph of one embodiment of a powder applicator for applying powder to areas of varying sizes;

[0018] Figure 9A is a perspective view of one embodiment of a powder applicator with the handle in a first position;

[0019] Figure 9B yes Figure 9B A perspective view of the powder applicator, wherein the handle is in a second position;

[0020] Figure 10 is a cross-sectional view of one embodiment of a powder applicator having a rotatable handle;

[0021] Figure 11is a cross-sectional view of another embodiment of a powder applicator having a rotatable handle;

[0022] Figure 12A is a perspective view of one embodiment of a powder applicator handle; and

[0023] Figure 12B is a perspective view of one embodiment of a powder applicator having a valve. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0024] Therapeutic powders for different applications can vary in particle size and density. These properties affect the flow characteristics or flowability of the powder. The Hausner ratio can be used to assess the flowability of a powder and is calculated by dividing the measured tap density of the powder by the bulk density of the powder. Generally, the lower the Hausner ratio, the better the flowability. For example, powders with a Hausner ratio between 1.00 and 1.18 can be considered to exhibit excellent to good flow characteristics, while powders with a Hausner ratio above 1.18 exhibit fair to poor flow characteristics. Other powder characteristics may also be present, such as particle morphology, basic flow energy BFE (mJ), aeration energy AE (mJ), aeration ratio (AE), wall friction angle (WFA), percent compression, static charge, moisture content, and other suitable parameters that may result in a reduction in the overall flowability of the powder. Particles with poor flowability are relatively difficult to fluidize, and therefore these particles are not suitable for certain application methods.

[0025] Hemostatic powders are therapeutic powders used to control or stop bleeding. These powders are typically applied via an applicator that can use a gas stream to direct the powder toward and onto the bleeding site. Existing applicators use relatively high pressure and / or relatively high velocity gas and are generally effective at fluidizing and applying hemostatic powders with relatively small particle sizes and / or relatively low densities. Such hemostatic powders can exhibit a Hausner ratio between 1.00 and 1.18. However, these small particle sizes and / or low density hemostatic powders may be ineffective at disrupting the surface tension of flowing blood and, therefore, may not reach the desired location below the flowing blood. Therefore, using a larger and / or denser powder that can disrupt the surface tension of flowing blood may be advantageous in certain applications. In addition to particle size, density, and Hausner ratio, other particle characteristics—including, but not limited to, particle morphology, basic flow energy (BFE) (mJ), aeration energy (AE) (mJ), aeration ratio (AE), wall friction angle (WFA), percent compressibility, electrostatic charge, and moisture content—can also improve the ability of a hemostatic powder to penetrate blood while reducing the ability of the powder to be effectively fluidized using existing high-pressure and / or high-speed applicators. However, the inventors have recognized that existing high-pressure applicators are generally ineffective at fluidizing and applying powders having one or more of the aforementioned characteristics that can improve the ability of a powder to penetrate blood.

[0026] In view of the foregoing, the inventors have recognized the benefits of an improved therapeutic powder applicator capable of handling a variety of different types of powders. Such an applicator can be configured to effectively fluidize and apply the therapeutic powder over a range of pressures and / or velocities, ranging from relatively high pressures and / or velocities used by existing applicators to relatively low pressures and / or velocities below the pressures and / or velocities of existing applicators. In some embodiments, such an applicator can also enable the therapeutic powder to be applied with a variable distribution, for example, enabling targeted application to smaller and / or larger areas. Thus, in some embodiments, the operation of the applicator can be modified to effectively distribute the hemostatic powder to a target location with desired precision and / or control, the size of which can vary from a wide area to a small area. In contrast, typical applicators use relatively high pressures and / or relatively high velocities of gas, which are generally effective in fluidizing the hemostatic powder and applying the hemostatic powder to a wider target area.

[0027] In view of the foregoing, the inventors have recognized the benefits of an improved therapeutic powder applicator capable of delivering a variety of different types of powders in a controlled manner. In some cases, this can enable delivery to a wide target area and / or a small target area. In such an embodiment, the applicator can be configured to effectively control the delivery area by controlling the pressure and / or velocity of the gas used to entrain the particles, which in some cases can be relatively low pressures and / or velocities compared to typical applicators.

[0028] In certain embodiments, the therapeutic powder applicator includes a chamber configured to accommodate a powder, such as a therapeutic powder (e.g., a hemostatic powder). A portion or the entire chamber can be made of a porous material. A first pressurized gas source can be in fluid communication with the chamber through the porous material of the chamber. In addition, the outlet of the chamber can be in fluid communication with the internal volume of the chamber. In such an embodiment, a first gas stream from the first pressurized gas source can flow into the chamber through the porous material. Once in the chamber, the gas stream can fluidize and entrain the powder before flowing out of the outlet of the chamber to dispense the powder from the applicator. According to a specific embodiment, the gas stream can be delivered to the chamber so that the gas stream flows into the chamber through the porous material forming a portion of the chamber in a direction angled relative to the flow direction of the gas and entrains particles from the chamber and / or a position near a fixed distal portion of the chamber, the distal portion being arranged between the opening and a proximal end of the chamber positioned opposite the opening. Furthermore, in some embodiments, the distal portion of the chamber can be configured such that when the device is operated, the distal portion of the chamber and the opening can be at least partially oriented vertically downward relative to the direction of local gravity to maintain the powder adjacent to the opening and the porous portion of the chamber through which gas flows.

[0029] In some embodiments, it may be desirable to further increase the turbulence of the gas flow entering the chamber and thereby increase mixing of the gas with the particles within the chamber. In such embodiments, the applicator may include a vortex chamber disposed adjacent to the opening of the chamber. The vortex chamber may be configured to focus the incoming gas flow through the porous material forming part of the chamber near the outlet location. Without wishing to be bound by theory, this may improve aeration and fluidization of the powder near the outlet, thereby increasing the amount of material delivered per actuation.

[0030] In certain embodiments, it may be desirable to entrain the fluidized powder in a separate gas stream. Such an arrangement may facilitate dispensing the fluidized powder from the outlet of the applicator in a desired distribution pattern. In such an embodiment, the applicator may include at least a second gas stream that is separate from the first gas stream that passes through the chamber of the applicator to fluidize the powder contained in the chamber as described above. During operation, the first gas stream with the entrained powder may be combined with the second gas stream at a point downstream of the chamber. Thus, the entrained powder may be dispensed through the outlet of the applicator by means of the combined flow of the first and second gas streams. It will be understood that the pressure source of this second flow path may be the same as or different from the pressure source used to fluidize the powder.

[0031] During application, it may be desirable to adjust the spread or coverage of the powder applied via the applicator. For example, it may be desirable to start with a smaller spread so that the powder can be distributed over a first, smaller area, and a larger spread so that the powder can be distributed over a second, larger area. Furthermore, in some cases, it may be desirable to distribute a larger amount of powder, while in other cases, it may be desirable to distribute a smaller amount of powder. In some embodiments, the above-mentioned distribution parameters can be adjusted by adjusting the relative flow rate of gas through the first flow path and the second flow path of the above-mentioned applicator. This can be achieved by changing the relative flow resistance of one or both flow paths (e.g., a variable flow resistance valve), changing the flow rate of gas from an associated pressure source, and / or any other suitable method for controlling the relative flow rate of gas between different flow paths. For example, in an exemplary embodiment, the variable resistance valve can be fully opened to allow maximum flow through the second flow path in a first operating mode, the variable resistance valve can be partially closed to allow reduced flow through the second flow path in a second operating mode, and the variable resistance valve can be fully closed to prevent gas flow through the second flow path in a third operating mode.

[0032] As mentioned above, at least a portion of the chamber can be made of porous material. In some embodiments, the porous material can be configured so that the porous material is permeable to the gas from the first pressurized gas source and is impermeable to powders with a predetermined particle size range. Therefore, the porous material can retain the powder in the chamber and prevent the powder from flowing back toward the associated pressurized gas source. The applicator can be configured so that when the applicator is not operated (for example, when the first pressurized gas source is not operated and gas is not delivered to the chamber), the powder is retained in the chamber. The porous material can correspond to any suitable material and / or structure comprising a plurality of open holes extending from one side of the material to the other opposite side of the material. In some embodiments, the plurality of holes can be formed in the material by drilling, molding, laser ablation or using any other suitable manufacturing technology. In other embodiments, the porous material can be a porous membrane, which can correspond to weaving, non-woven or other suitable membrane structures. In addition, in some cases, the diffusion characteristics of the porous membrane can be changed by sintering the porous membrane. Therefore, in some embodiments, the porous material can include a sintered porous membrane. In view of the foregoing, it should be understood that any suitable type of porous material having suitable pore density and pore size may be used with the various embodiments described herein, as the present disclosure is not limited in this respect.

[0033] As described above, the entire chamber or only a portion of the chamber can be constructed from a porous material. In embodiments where only a portion of the chamber is porous, the remainder of the chamber can be constructed from any suitable non-porous material, including plastic, glass, metal, etc. The porous and non-porous portions of the chamber can have a joining surface. In certain embodiments, the porous and non-porous portions of the chamber can be selectively coupled at the joining surface. This arrangement enables the chamber to be selectively opened and closed, allowing therapeutic powder to be added or removed as needed. Such embodiments can be configured for repeated use. In other embodiments, the various portions of the chamber can be integrally formed and / or permanently connected to one another. In such embodiments, the chamber can be provided with a specific amount or dose of the desired therapeutic powder, and once that dose is exhausted, the chamber can be removed from the applicator, disposed of, and optionally replaced with a new chamber containing a new dose of therapeutic powder. Thus, the applicator can be configured for single or multiple use, as the present disclosure is not limited in this manner.

[0034] The applicators disclosed herein can be used to fluidize and dispense a wide range of therapeutic powders having different particle sizes and densities. The inventors have demonstrated through testing that the lower pressures and / or velocities provided by certain embodiments described herein can enable the use of relatively larger sized and / or higher density powders. For example, the applicator can be configured to fluidize powders having a particle size greater than or equal to 100 μm, 200 μm, 300 μm, and / or any other suitable size. The powder can also have a particle size less than or equal to 700 μm, 600 μm, 500 μm, and / or any other suitable size. Combinations of the foregoing ranges are contemplated, such as including a powder particle size between 100 μm and 700 μm or equal to 100 μm and 700 μm. In addition to the foregoing, in some embodiments, the disclosed applicators can enable the use of a combination of multiple types of powder particles, each powder particle comprising similar or different particle characteristics, i.e., size, density, etc. In addition to the foregoing, in some embodiments, the powder can have a Hausner ratio greater than 1.18, but it should be understood that the applicator can also be configured to fluidize and distribute powders having a Hausner ratio below 1.18. For example, the Hausner ratio of one or more powders contained in the applicator can be greater than or equal to 1.18, 1.2, 1.3, and / or any other suitable ratio. Correspondingly, the Hausner ratio can be less than or equal to 1.4, 1.3, 1.2, and / or any other suitable ratio. Combinations of the foregoing ratios can be envisioned, such as including a Hausner ratio between 1.18 and 1.4 or equal to 1.18 and 1.4, but ratios greater than and less than those ratios described above can also be envisioned. Furthermore, while specific particle sizes are given above, particles having greater than and less than those particle sizes described above can also be envisioned, as the present disclosure is not limited thereto.

[0035] As mentioned above, in some embodiments, applicator can be configured to utilize the pressure lower than the pressure of standard applicator.The pressure that can be provided to the other parts of chamber and / or applicator from pressure source can be greater than or equal to 2 millibars (mbar), 3mbar, 5mbar, 10mbar, 20mbar and / or any other pressure that is suitable for.The pressure supplied by pressure source can also be less than or equal to 40mbar, 30mbar, 20mbar, 2mbar and / or any other pressure that is suitable for.Can envision the combination of aforementioned pressure, for example, comprise the pressure source that is configured to provide the gas flow under the pressure between 2mbar and 40mbar or equal to 2mbar and 40mbar.Certainly, also can envision the different combinations of above-mentioned scope and the pressure range that is greater than and less than those pressure ranges mentioned above, because present disclosure is not limited thereto.

[0036] Pressure source described herein can correspond to the pressure source of any suitable type that can provide pressurized gas flow to one or more parts of powder applicator.Suitable pressure source can include but not limited to compressible bellows, gas canister, centralized pressure source such as pressurized gas port, pump and / or can provide any other suitable pressure source of pressurized gas to applicator.Pressure source can provide atmospheric air, CO , hydrofluoroalkanes and / or the stream of any other suitable gas.According to specific embodiment, pressure source can be directly coupled to the part of applicator, be connected to applicator via hose and / or can be attached to provide the fluid between the desired part of applicator and one or more pressure sources with any other suitable method and be communicated.Described one or more pressure sources can also be configured to provide the gas of continuous gas flow or predetermined volume according to the application of expectation, as described in further detail below.

[0037] In some applications, it may be desirable for the applicator to be able to fluidize the powder contained therein in a variety of different orientations. Typically, therapeutic powders are more easily fluidized when they are in contact with a porous portion of the chamber through which gas flows. Therefore, it may be desirable to orient the chamber of the applicator so that the powder remains in contact with the porous portion of the chamber during use. To facilitate this positioning of the powder, in some embodiments, it may be advantageous to angle the longitudinal axis of the chamber so that the longitudinal axis of the chamber can be angled relative to an axis passing through an outlet of the applicator, which axis passing through the outlet of the applicator can be parallel to the flow exiting the outlet. Angling the chamber relative to the outlet can help to keep the powder in a desired portion of the chamber. Suitable angles between the axis of the outlet and the longitudinal axis of the chamber can be greater than or equal to 15°, 20°, 30°, 45°, 60°, 70°, 90°, 120°, and / or any other suitable angle. The angle of the longitudinal axis of the chamber relative to the axis of the outlet may also be less than or equal to 165°, 150°, 135°, 120°, 90°, 70°, 60°, and / or any other suitable angle. Combinations of the foregoing angles are contemplated, including, for example, angles between the longitudinal axis of the chamber and the axis of the outlet that are between or equal to 20° and 70°. While angling the longitudinal axis of the chamber relative to the axis of the outlet may help to effectively fluidize the powder within the chamber for different applicator orientations relative to downward gravity, embodiments are also contemplated in which the longitudinal axis of the chamber and the axis of the associated outlet through the applicator are parallel and / or coaxial with each other, as the present disclosure is not limited thereto.

[0038] In some embodiments, the applicator may include a handle. The handle may be configured to rotate relative to another portion of the applicator to accommodate different holding positions and / or orientations. For example, the handle may be configured to rotate relative to the chamber of the applicator so that the chamber can remain upright or otherwise oriented so that the powder remains in contact with the porous portion of the chamber during use. For example, the user can rotate the handle from a vertical orientation to a horizontal orientation, but cannot change the orientation of the chamber relative to gravity. In some embodiments, the handle may be configured to rotate around the longitudinal axis of the applicator, which may enable the handle to "tilt" relative to another portion of the applicator. For example, the handle may be configured to rotate around an axis of rotation that is parallel to the axis passing through the outlet.

[0039] It should be understood that the handle of the applicator can be configured to rotate any suitable angle, because the present disclosure is not limited in this respect. For example, relative to the initial configuration, the handle can be configured to rotate an angle greater than or equal to -180 °, -135 °, -90 °, -45 °, -30 °, -15 °, 0 °, 15 °, 30 °, 45 °, 90 °, 135 ° and / or any other angle that is suitable for. The handle can be configured to rotate an angle less than or equal to -135 °, -90 °, -45 °, -30 °, -15 °, 0 °, 15 °, 30 °, 45 °, 90 °, 135 °, 180 ° and / or any other angle that is suitable for. The combination of the aforementioned angles can also be envisioned. In some embodiments, the handle can be configured to rotate more than 360 °. In some embodiments, the handle can be configured to rotate unlimitedly in one or more directions.

[0040] In some embodiments, the handle can be configured to rotate in discrete increments. For example, the handle can be pushed into a preset angular position separated by a limited increment (e.g., an increment of 5°, 10°, 15°, 30°, or any other suitable increment). Discrete rotation increments can be achieved using a pawl, tab, and slot arrangement, a ratchet mechanism, or any other suitable arrangement configured to enable discrete angle positioning. In some embodiments, the handle can be configured to rotate continuously. For example, the handle can rotate around a bushing or bearing disposed between the handle and the outer shell of the applicator. In some embodiments in which the handle is configured to rotate continuously, the handle can be locked into any desired rotation angle. The handle can be locked using a friction ring, a thumb screw, a button, or any other suitable locking mechanism.

[0041] In some embodiments, the proximal portion of the applicator can rotate with the handle when the handle rotates relative to the chamber, and the distal portion of the applicator can remain fixed relative to the chamber. For example, the proximal portion can include a pressurized gas source (e.g., a bellows) and a handle, and the distal portion can include a chamber and an outlet. When the handle rotates relative to the chamber, the entire proximal portion can rotate relative to the entire distal portion. Therefore, in such an embodiment, the pressurized gas source can rotate with the handle when the handle rotates relative to the chamber. In such an embodiment, the first portion of the entire flow path from the pressurized gas source to the outlet (e.g., the portion of the flow path located within the proximal portion of the applicator) can rotate relative to the second portion of the entire flow path (e.g., the portion of the flow path located within the distal portion of the applicator). The proximal and distal portions of the applicator (and / or the first and second portions of the entire flow path) can be rotatably coupled using any suitable coupling configured to allow relative rotation. For example, either the proximal or distal portion of the applicator can include a flange, and the other of the proximal or distal portion of the applicator can include a rack and / or ledge configured to engage the flange. The junction between the proximal and distal portions of the applicator may include a gasket, O-ring, or other component configured to seal the junction between the first and second portions of the overall flow path and prevent or minimize leakage of pressurized gas.

[0042] In some embodiments, the handle can be the only component that rotates when the handle rotates relative to the chamber. For example, the pressurized gas source can be fixed relative to the chamber, such that the handle is configured to rotate relative to the pressurized gas source when the handle rotates relative to the chamber. In such embodiments, the entire flow path from the pressurized gas source to the outlet can include no components that rotate relative to each other, as the handle can rotate around the entire flow path. Consequently, such embodiments can eliminate the need for gaskets, O-rings, or other sealing components.

[0043] The applicator can include any suitable number, type, and / or arrangement of valves configured to control fluid flow. In some embodiments, the applicator can include one or more one-way valves (also referred to as check valves or non-return valves) configured to prevent fluid from flowing back into the outlet. For example, if the applicator includes a bellows as a source of pressurized gas, expanding the bellows from a compressed configuration (e.g., after delivering a therapeutic powder) can be associated with generating vacuum pressure. This vacuum pressure can pull gas and / or liquid from the area surrounding the outlet back through the outlet and into the applicator. This backflow can be undesirable because the area surrounding the outlet can contain moist, wet gas and / or liquid, which, if allowed to remain within the applicator, can negatively impact the performance of the applicator. Therefore, the applicator can include a first one-way valve configured to allow gas to flow from the pressurized gas source to the outlet and to prevent fluid from flowing from the outlet to the pressurized gas source. The first one-way valve can be arranged at any suitable point along the flow path from the pressurized gas source to the outlet. For example, the first one-way valve can be arranged immediately downstream of or near the outlet of the pressurized gas source, but other suitable locations are also contemplated. In some embodiments, the applicator may include a second one-way valve that is configured to allow gas to flow into the applicator from the external environment. For example, the second one-way valve can be configured to allow gas to flow into the applicator from the ambient air surrounding the bellows to refill the bellows when the bellows expands from a compressed configuration, and can be configured to prevent gas from flowing from the bellows to the ambient air when the bellows is compressed. The second one-way valve can be arranged at any suitable point along the flow path from the pressurized gas source to the outlet. In some embodiments, the second one-way valve can be arranged at a position upstream of the first one-way valve.

[0044] It will be appreciated that the applicator can have a chamber of any suitable shape for accommodating the powder to be dispensed. However, in certain embodiments, the chamber of the applicator can comprise an elongated shape having a longitudinal axis extending along the length of the chamber. For example, the chamber can be generally cylindrical in shape with hemispherical ends. Such a shape can facilitate fluidization of the powder and distribution through the outlet. For example, the shape will not have any sharp edges, corners, etc. that could disrupt the gas flow and fluidization of the powder within the chamber. However, embodiments are also contemplated in which there are discontinuous design features with sharp edges, corners, and other sudden changes along the flow path and / or within the chamber of the applicator, as the present disclosure is not limited thereto. For example, there can be bends or other sharp bends along the flow path connecting the various flow channels and / or chambers to each other.

[0045] In some embodiments, it may be desirable to dispense a predetermined amount of powder during actuation of a pressure source of the applicator. For example, actuation of a bellows or other pressure source in fluid communication with a porous chamber containing the powder can dispense a predetermined amount of powder from the applicator for each actuation cycle, as described in further detail below. In one embodiment, this can be achieved by causing a predetermined volume of gas to flow through one or more flow paths of the applicator at a desired pressure, such as might occur during a single actuation cycle of the bellows; by metering gas from a pressurized gas source; or by any other suitable method of dispensing a desired amount of gas at a desired pressure. This can allow for approximately metered dispensing of powder from the applicator.

[0046] The applicators described herein can be used to dispense any suitable type of powder, as the present disclosure is not limited in this manner. However, as described above, in some embodiments, the various embodiments of the powder applicators described herein can be used to dispense a powder comprising one or more therapeutic compounds, which powder may also be referred to as a therapeutic powder. The therapeutic compound for the purposes of this application can correspond to any suitable material, including but not limited to any drug, pharmaceutical, pharmaceutical formulation, contrast agent and / or biological agent such as protein, antisense molecule and gene therapy viral vector, as the present disclosure is not limited in this manner. In certain embodiments, the therapeutic compound can be a hemostatic agent. The amount of therapeutic powder dispensed from the applicator can be selected so that an effective amount of the therapeutic compound can be dispensed at the desired location. When a therapeutic compound is present in a specific location in an "effective amount," this means that the concentration of the therapeutic compound is greater than or equal to a trace amount and is sufficient to achieve the desired purpose, such as, for example, to permit detection of the therapeutic compound in a subject's body for diagnostic purposes, thereby treating the subject's disease or condition and / or enhancing treatment of the subject's disease or condition. In some embodiments, an effective amount of a specific therapeutic compound is present in an amount sufficient to alleviate or alleviate one or more conditions associated with a specific condition.

[0047] Turning to the drawings, specific non-limiting embodiments are described in more detail. It should be understood that the various systems, components, features, and methods described with respect to these embodiments may be used alone and / or in any desired combination, as the present disclosure is not limited to the specific embodiments described herein.

[0048] Figure 1A first embodiment of a therapeutic powder applicator 100 is shown. In this embodiment, the applicator is configured to be handheld and operates using a bellows 120 configured to serve as a first source of pressurized gas. The bellows includes a compressible interior volume that is in fluid communication with a chamber 110 in which powder can be contained. The chamber is formed at least partially from a porous material, as indicated by porous material 112, which includes a plurality of pores 114 forming a lower portion of the chamber. In the depicted embodiment, the chamber includes a second portion formed from a non-porous material 116 that is joined and connected to the porous material 112 at a joint 115 to form the entire chamber, although embodiments in which the entire chamber is made of porous material are also contemplated. As previously described, this joint is selectively connectable, allowing the chamber to be opened to allow the addition or removal of therapeutic powder from the chamber 110 as needed. In other embodiments, the porous material 112 and the non-porous material 116 may be permanently connected at the joint 115, or the chamber may be a single, unitary component.

[0049] As also shown in the figures, the interior volume of the bellows 120 or other suitable pressure source is connected to the interior volume of the chamber via a first gas conduit 122 through the porous material fluid of the chamber. In the depicted embodiment, the first gas conduit corresponds to one or more channels or gaps located between the exterior surface of the chamber and the interior surface of the outer shell 102 of the applicator and an associated connector 104 positioned between the bellows and the housing chamber. The connector may include an inlet 121 to the housing and the first flow conduit. In this embodiment, the non-porous material 116 of the chamber 110 can help guide the first gas flow around the proximal portion of the chamber 110 as the first gas flow flows from the bellows 120 located at the proximal end of the applicator 100 toward the distal portion of the applicator, wherein the porous portion of the chamber can be positioned distally relative to the non-porous portion of the chamber. Thus, the bellows or other pressurized gas source can deliver the gas flow to a distal portion of the chamber, which can be proximal to the chamber's outlet, in this case, an opening in fluid communication with a second conduit 132 located on the distal portion of the chamber. Alternatively, in some embodiments, the location to which the gas flow from the gas source is delivered can be a distal portion of the chamber disposed on one or more sides of the chamber extending between the proximal and distal ends of the chamber, such that the gas flow flows into the bulk of the powder in the initial fill state rather than into the proximal end of the chamber opposite the opening. Furthermore, in some embodiments and as depicted in the figures, the gas flow into the volume surrounding the porous portion of the chamber can permit the pressurized gas flow to enter the chamber along the entire porous portion of the chamber, in this case, corresponding to the distal portion of the chamber proximal to the chamber's opening.

[0050] In the above-described embodiment, the second conduit 132 is also in fluid communication with the outlet 130 of the applicator. This can help to avoid the fluid from flowing into the chamber in a direction parallel to the direction of flow out of the chamber, which can help fluidize the powder contained in the chamber. For example, depending on the specific arrangement, the fluid flow from the bellows or other gas source can flow into the chamber in a direction that is angled relative to the longitudinal axis of the chamber and / or the opening of the chamber. Suitable angles can include, but are not limited to, angles between about 15° and about 180° (i.e., opposite directions) so that the gas flow entering the chamber is not in the same direction as the gas flow and entrained particles through the opening of the chamber, however, angles greater than and less than those angles described above can also be envisioned, as the present disclosure is not limited thereto. However, it should also be understood that embodiments can also be envisioned in which the direction in which the gas flow flows into the chamber is parallel to the direction in which the gas flow and entrained particles flow out of the chamber.

[0051] In the depicted embodiment, the longitudinal axis of chamber 110 and the axis through applicator outlet 130 are both substantially parallel and coaxially aligned along depicted axis 118. Furthermore, when the applicator is oriented with the outlet directed vertically downward relative to the local gravitational field, porous material 112 forms the bottom portion of chamber 110. When applicator 100 is oriented in this vertically downward orientation or with a relatively small angular offset from vertical (e.g., less than 45 degrees from vertical), the majority of the therapeutic powder contained in the chamber can be disposed against porous material 112 due to the force of gravity acting on the powder. Without wishing to be bound by theory, the primary mechanism for achieving fluidization is the flowing gas disrupting friction between the particles and the inner surface of chamber 110. Therefore, the effectiveness of fluidization may depend on the percentage of powder in contact with porous material 112 as gas flows through the porous portion of the chamber. Therefore, the configuration shown in the first embodiment may be effective at fluidizing the therapeutic powder when oriented vertically or when offset from vertical by less than a predetermined angle (e.g., less than 45 degrees). However, it should be understood that the operation of the depicted device is not limited to any particular angular range, as various shapes, relative sizes, amounts of porous material forming the chambers, and / or other suitable operating parameters can be varied to provide different operating angular ranges for operation of the applicator.

[0052] During operation, compression of the bellows 120 generates a first gas stream that flows into the housing 102 of the applicator 100 through a first gas inlet 121. From there, the first gas stream travels through a first gas conduit 122, which distributes the gas surrounding the chamber 110 from a proximal portion of the device, near the bellows 120, to a distal portion of the device, near the outlet 130, where the porous material of the chamber is located. Upon reaching the distal portion of the device, the first gas stream flows through a plurality of pores 114 formed in the porous material 112 of the chamber 110. After flowing through the porous material 112, the first gas stream fluidizes and entrains therapeutic powder (not shown) located in the chamber 110 before flowing through an opening in the chamber into a second gas conduit 132. The entrained powder can then be dispensed with the gas stream from the outlet 130.

[0053] In an embodiment using a bellows, the bellows can be configured so that the force applied to the bellows can affect the pressure and / or velocity of the gas delivered to the chamber or other parts of the applicator. This in turn can affect the fluidization characteristics and / or distribution characteristics of the applicator. For example, applying a large force or compression ratio to the bellows can result in a higher pressure, thereby causing a larger volume of powder to fluidize and distribute through the outlet in a smaller first area with a smaller distribution pattern. Conversely, applying a smaller force or compression ratio to the bellows can result in a lower pressure, thereby causing a smaller volume of powder to fluidize and distribute through the outlet in a wide distribution pattern in a second, larger area. Of course, similar functionality can be achieved by controlling the pressure and / or flow of the gas from any other suitable pressure source as described above.

[0054] Figure 2 A second embodiment of the applicator 100 is shown. In this embodiment, the applicator 100 is similar to the Figure 1 The embodiment described. However, the applicator is now configured to operate with gas supplied by a pressurized gas source 120 that is different from the bellows. For example, a procedure room / medical room gas supply or gas tank can be fluidly connected to the applicator via an associated conduit 120a or other suitable connector that is in fluid communication with the first gas inlet 121 of the applicator. In this embodiment, the first gas inlet 121 includes a 90 degree elbow, but any angled or straight connector can be used in other embodiments. The conduit can be attached to the first gas inlet by any suitable connector, including but not limited to quick connect fittings, threaded connectors, adhesives, compression fittings and / or any other suitable type of connector. In an alternative embodiment, a tank of appropriate size can be attached to the housing 102 of the applicator 100 and fluidly connected to the first gas inlet 121. As Figure 1As in the embodiment shown in FIG, the gas flow flows from a proximal portion of the device near the first gas inlet 121 toward a distal portion of the device near the outlet 130 through the first gas conduit 122. At this point, the gas can flow through the porous material 112 of the chamber 110 where it fluidizes and entrains the therapeutic powder (not shown) before carrying the powder through the second gas conduit 132 for dispensing through the outlet 130.

[0055] Figure 3 A separate view of one embodiment of an applicator outlet 130 is shown. In this embodiment, outlet 130 includes a first inner wall 132a formed from a porous material, which defines at least a portion of channel 131 extending through the nozzle. The inner wall can be spaced apart from a second wall 132b of the nozzle, and the second wall 132b is arranged radially outward relative to the inner wall so that an internal volume portion 133 can be formed between the first and second walls. The wall is depicted as a cylindrical tube. However, any suitable shape of wall and corresponding volume portion can be used. In the depicted embodiment, the second wall can be made of a non-porous material and the first inner wall can include a plurality of holes 134 formed in the wall, so that the internal volume portion arranged between the walls is in fluid communication with the channel extending through the nozzle through the plurality of holes formed in the first inner wall. It should be understood that any porous material can be used to form the inner wall, and the inner wall includes holes formed in a solid material, a porous membrane material, or any other suitable porous material. The nozzle can include an inlet 136 to the interior volume, located at any point between the first and second walls, wherein in some embodiments, the inlet 136 is positioned distally relative to the outlet 131 , and in some embodiments, the inlet 136 is positioned proximally relative to the outlet 131 .

[0056] During operation, a gas flow separated from the main gas flow through the passage 131 of the nozzle 130 can be supplied from a pressurized gas source through an inlet 136 to the internal volume portion 133 between the first wall 132a and the second wall 132b. The pressurized gas source can be the same or different from the pressurized gas source used to provide the main gas flow through the applicator nozzle. In either case, the gas can be under a greater pressure relative to the main gas flow through the passage of the nozzle, so that the gas flows from the internal volume portion through the holes of the first inner wall into the passage. This gas flow into the passage of the nozzle through the inner wall forming the passage can help keep powder entrained in the gas flow through the nozzle, which can help avoid clogging of the applicator. Of course, although a specific nozzle design has been described with respect to the accompanying drawings, it should be understood that any suitable type of nozzle can be used with various embodiments of the applicator described herein including nozzles without the depicted structure.

[0057] Figures 4A to 4C A third embodiment of a therapeutic powder applicator 100 is shown. Most notably, the third embodiment is configured to include a second gas flow path and includes an angular offset between the longitudinal axis of chamber 110 and the axis extending through outlet 130 of the applicator. In this embodiment, a bellows 120 is configured to serve as a first source of pressurized gas. Similar to the aforementioned embodiments, the bellows or other pressure source is in fluid communication with a porous portion of the applicator's chamber 110, which contains powder (not depicted), via a first gas inlet 121 in fluid communication with a first conduit, which is in fluid communication with a volume surrounding porous material 112 forming part of the chamber. Similar to the aforementioned embodiments, the first conduit can deliver the pressurized gas flow to a location proximate to an opening in the chamber, through which the gas and entrained particles can flow. In the depicted embodiment, the outlet of the first conduit is oriented toward the porous portion of the chamber at an angle different from the angle of the axis extending through opening 132 formed in the chamber. The bellows can also be in fluid communication with a second flow path in the form of a second conduit 142 that bypasses the chamber. The flow paths connecting the bellows to the first and second conduits through the gas inlet can be split at a first junction 123. These split first and second flow paths can be recombined at a second junction 124 downstream of the chamber and the second conduit before passing through the outlet of the applicator.

[0058] During operation, compression bellows 120 generates a first gas stream that flows into the interior of applicator 100 through gas inlet 121. Upon entering the applicator, the first gas stream encounters first junction 123, where it splits into two distinct streams. The first gas stream enters first gas conduit 122, where it flows through porous material 112 of chamber 110, fluidizing and entraining the powder contained therein, as described above. The separated second gas stream enters second gas conduit 142 and flows along it toward second junction 124, bypassing the chamber containing the powder, i.e., not flowing through it. Correspondingly, powder entrained in the first gas stream exiting through opening 132 of the chamber may also flow into second junction 124, where the entrained powder and the first gas stream combine with the second gas stream. Depending on the relative velocities of the two gas streams, the second gas stream may aerosolize entrained powder in the combined gas stream before exiting through outlet 130 .

[0059] As mentioned above, Figures 4A to 4CAlso depicted is a chamber 110 having a longitudinal axis that is angled relative to an axis extending through an outlet 130 of the applicator 100. In the depicted embodiment, the angle between the longitudinal axis of the chamber and the outlet is approximately 45°, but other suitable angles may be used. The figures include a dashed line that represents a horizontal plane perpendicular to the direction of gravity. Figure 4A The applicator outlet is shown tilted upward at an angle of approximately 45 degrees relative to the horizontal. Figure 4B An applicator is shown having an outlet angled downwardly at approximately 45 degrees relative to the horizontal, and Figure 4C The applicator outlet is shown oriented vertically downward. Because the longitudinal axis of the chamber is angled relative to the axis through the applicator outlet, in each of the three orientations, the portion of the chamber made of porous material 112 can be located at the most vertically downward portion of the chamber. Therefore, the force of gravity acting on the powder contained in the chamber can cause most of the powder to remain in contact with the porous portion of the chamber. As described above, maintaining the powder in contact with the porous portion of the chamber through which gas can flow can help to ensure that the powder contained in the chamber is adequately fluidized. Therefore, compared to an applicator in which the longitudinal axis of the chamber is aligned with the axis extending through the outlet of the applicator, an applicator similar to the one in which the longitudinal axis of the chamber is angled relative to the axis of the outlet 130 Figures 4A to 4C Embodiments other than those shown in the drawings may enable a wider range of effective operating orientations of the applicator.

[0060] Figure 5 Another embodiment of a powder applicator 100 is shown. This is similar to the above description of Figures 4A to 4CThe embodiment described above is not limited to the embodiment described above. However, a variable flow restrictor, such as a valve 125, can be arranged along the second gas conduit 142 between the first joint 123 and the second joint 124. The valve can be configured to adjust the relative flow resistance and, therefore, the flow rate of gas through the first conduit 122 and the second conduit 142. Depending on the desired operation, the variable flow resistance can be operated to provide a variable flow resistance through the second conduit bypassing the chamber that is less than, equal to, and / or greater than the flow resistance through the first conduit and the associated chamber. In addition, in some cases, the variable flow resistance can be used to close the second conduit, in which case the operation of the applicator can be similar to that described in the previous embodiment including a single flow path. By appropriately varying the relative flow resistance of the different flow paths through the applicator, the amount, speed, and / or spread of the dispensed powder can be varied. For example, and without wishing to be bound by theory, in one operating mode, a small coverage area and a higher powder dispensing rate can be achieved by using a lower pressure in the second flow path that bypasses the powder chamber, which can have a relatively higher pressure. In another mode of operation, a larger coverage area and lower powder dispensing rate can be achieved by using a higher pressure in the second flow path relative to the lower pressure in the chamber.

[0061] In the above-described embodiment, the valve 125 has been depicted as being disposed on the second flow path that bypasses the chamber 110. However, embodiments are also contemplated in which a valve or other flow restrictor is disposed on one or both of the first and second flow paths, as the present disclosure is not limited to how the relative flow resistance between the two flow paths is controlled. Furthermore, it should be understood that the valve or other suitable variable flow restrictor can be operated manually and / or by electrical control, as the present disclosure is not limited to a particular method for controlling the variable flow restrictor.

[0062] Figure 6 Yet another embodiment of a powder applicator 100 similar to those described above is shown. This embodiment includes only a single flow path and chamber 110 having a longitudinal axis that is angled relative to the axis of the outlet 130 through the applicator, as described above. Additionally, as in Figure 6As best seen in Figure 1, in some embodiments, the downstream opening of the first conduit 122, which opens into the interior of the housing containing the chamber, can be radially offset relative to the opening 132 formed in the chamber, while still directing the gas flow toward the distal portion of the chamber, which is disposed between the opening of the chamber and the proximal end of the chamber positioned opposite the opening. Furthermore, the first conduit can direct the gas flow into the volume surrounding the distal porous portion of the chamber. The conduit opening can also be directed at an angle relative to the opening through the chamber and / or the longitudinal axis of the chamber itself. This can also help prevent the gas flow from exiting the conduit and flowing directly into the opening in the chamber without fluidizing the powder contained within. Furthermore, the depicted embodiment can provide fine control over the amount and spread of powder dispensed from the applicator. Specifically, compressing the bellows 120 at a relatively slow rate can allow for a more concentrated distribution of a larger amount of powder over a smaller area, compared to dispensing a smaller amount of powder over a larger area when the bellows is compressed at a relatively fast rate.

[0063] Figure 7 Shown with Figures 4A to 4CAnother embodiment of a powder applicator 100 similar to the powder applicator of FIG. In this embodiment, the applicator 100 is configured to receive a first gas flow from a first pressurized gas source and a second gas flow from a second pressurized gas source separate from the first pressurized gas source. In this embodiment, the first pressurized gas source 120 and the second pressurized gas source 140 are fed into the applicator 100 at a first gas inlet 121 and a second gas inlet 141. The first pressurized gas source 120 and the second pressurized gas source 140 can be gas feeders or tanks as described above. After entering the applicator 100, the first gas flow flows through a first gas conduit 122 and through a porous material 112 forming at least a portion of the chamber 110. At the porous material 112, the first gas flow fluidizes and entrains powder (not shown) contained in the chamber. The entrained powder then flows to the second connecting portion 124 through an opening 132 formed in the chamber. The separate second gas flow flows to the connecting portion 124 through a second conduit 142. At junction 124, the first gas stream with entrained powder is combined with the second gas stream to form a combined stream of gas and entrained powder, which then flows through outlet 130. Similar to the use of variable restrictors in one or both flow paths of the device, the pressurized gas source can be operated to adjust the amount of gas flowing through the various flow paths, thereby adjusting how the powder is dispensed from the applicator as described above. It should be understood that the first and second pressurized gas sources can be configured to operate independently such that no gas can flow, only the first gas stream can flow to chamber 110, only the second gas stream can flow to outlet 120, or both the first and second gas streams can flow. However, embodiments are also contemplated in which the first and second pressurized gas sources operate in conjunction with one another.

[0064] Figure 9A and Figure 9B One embodiment of a powder applicator 100 is shown with a rotatable handle 150 in different positions. Figure 9A In the configuration of , the handle 150 is in a vertical orientation relative to the chamber 110. Figure 9B In the configuration of , handle 150 is in a horizontal orientation relative to chamber 110. As described above, rotating handle 150 relative to chamber 110 can enable a user to adjust the holding position (e.g., to better access a target delivery site) while maintaining the chamber in an orientation in which the powder remains in contact with the porous portion of the chamber. Figure 9A and Figure 9B Only two different handle positions are depicted in FIG, but it should be understood that the handle can be configured to rotate to any suitable angle as described above.

[0065] Figure 10One embodiment of a powder applicator 100 having a rotatable handle 150 is shown. In this embodiment, a proximal portion 171 of the applicator is configured to rotate relative to a distal portion 172 of the applicator. The proximal portion 171 includes the bellows 120 (or other suitable pressurized gas source), the handle 150, and a first portion 175 of the entire flow path from the bellows 120 to the outlet 130. The distal portion 172 includes the chamber 110, the outlet 130, and a second portion 176 of the entire flow path. The handle 150 (and the remainder of the proximal portion 171) can be configured to rotate about a rotation axis 151 that is parallel to the axis 152 passing through the outlet 130. The proximal portion 171 and the distal portion 172 can be rotatably coupled at a joint 170, which can include a sealing member 174, such as a gasket or O-ring, as described in more detail above.

[0066] Although Figure 9 and Figure 10 The handle depicted has been illustrated for use with an applicator having a chamber at a particular angle and a single flow path connecting the bellows to the outlet, but it should be understood that the handle depicted may be used with any of the embodiments of the applicators disclosed herein, as the disclosure is not limited thereto.

[0067] Figure 10 Also shown is a valve configured to prevent backflow, which includes a first one-way valve 158 and a second one-way valve 159. As described above, the first one-way valve 158 can be configured to allow gas to flow from the bellows 120 to the outlet 130, and can be configured to prevent fluid from flowing from the outlet 130 to the bellows 120. Figure 10 In one embodiment, the first one-way valve 158 is arranged immediately downstream of the outlet of the bellows 120. In other embodiments, the first one-way valve can be arranged at another location, such as near the outlet as described above. The second one-way valve 159 can be configured to allow gas to flow from the ambient air surrounding the bellows 120 into the applicator 100, and can be configured to prevent gas from flowing from the bellows 120 to the ambient air when the bellows 120 is compressed. Figure 10 In the embodiment of the present invention, the second one-way valve 159 is arranged adjacent to the first one-way valve 158 and is angled relative to the first one-way valve 158. However, it should be understood that the second one-way valve can be arranged in a variety of suitable positions and a variety of suitable orientations. Furthermore, it should be understood that the applicator can include any suitable number of valves (such as the first one-way valve 158 and the second one-way valve 159), regardless of whether the applicator includes a handle.

[0068] Figure 11Another embodiment of an applicator 100 having a rotatable handle 150 is shown. In this embodiment, the handle 150 rotates relative to the outer housing 102 of the applicator 100, while the other components of the applicator 100 (e.g., the bellows 120, the chamber 110, and the outlet 130) remain stationary. Thus, the handle 150 can be configured to rotate relative to both the chamber 110 and the bellows 120. The handle 150 can be configured to rotate about a rotational axis 151 that is parallel to an axis 152 passing through the outlet 130.

[0069] Figure 12A and Figure 12B Detail of one embodiment of the interface between the handle 150 and the applicator is shown. The handle 150 includes a protrusion 160 configured to be received by any one of a plurality of recesses 162. The recess 162 can be associated with any suitable portion of the applicator 100, such as the outer housing 102, but is not limited thereto. Figure 12A In the embodiment of FIG. 1 , recess 162 is associated with connector 104 positioned between bellows 120 and outer housing 102. When handle 150 is rotated, protrusion 160 is pushed into one of recesses 162, causing handle 150 to be locked at a discrete angular position.

[0070] Although Figure 11 The handle depicted in has been illustrated as being used with an applicator having a chamber at a particular angle and a single flow path connecting the bellows to the outlet, but it should be understood that the handle depicted may be used with any of the embodiments of the applicators disclosed herein, as the disclosure is not limited thereto.

[0071] Figure 12B Additionally shown is a one-way valve that will be referred to as a second one-way valve 159 (for consistency with the above description). The second one-way valve 159 can be configured to allow gas to flow from the ambient air surrounding the bellows 120 into the applicator 100 (e.g., when the bellows is expanded), and can be configured to prevent gas from flowing from the bellows 120 to the ambient air (e.g., when the bellows 120 is compressed). Figure 12B In the embodiment of the present invention, the second one-way valve 159 is positioned between the bellows 120 and the outer housing 102, and the second one-way valve 159 is oriented perpendicular to the flow path between the bellows 120 and the outer housing 102. However, it should be understood that in other embodiments, the second one-way valve may be in other positions and / or orientations, as the present disclosure is not limited in this respect.

[0072] Example: Variable Operation of a Powder Applicator

[0073] Figure 8 Shows that you can use Figure 6Representative images of different powder distribution patterns achieved with a therapeutic powder applicator similar to the one shown in FIG. The left side shows a broad, dispersed distribution pattern. The right side shows a concentrated distribution pattern within a smaller area. These different distributions were achieved by varying the rate at which the bellows of the applicator were depressed, as described above.

[0074] Example: Powder Flow Properties

[0075] The flowability of dry powders having a Hausner ratio between about 1.08 and 1.39 was characterized and evaluated. Based on the tests performed, and without wishing to be bound by theory, it was found that lower basic flowability energy (BFE), lower aeration energy (AE), higher aeration ratio (i.e., lower cohesion due to higher sensitivity to aeration), lower wall friction angle (WFA) (due to lower sliding resistance between the powder and the wall), and lower compression percentage were all associated with improved flowability of the powder.

[0076] Although the present teachings have been described in conjunction with various embodiments and examples, it is not intended that the present teachings be limited to these embodiments or examples. On the contrary, as will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, the present teachings encompass various alternatives, modifications, and equivalents. Therefore, the foregoing description and accompanying drawings are merely exemplary.

Claims

1. A therapeutic powder applicator comprising: a chamber configured to contain a therapeutic powder, wherein at least a distal portion of the chamber comprises a porous membrane including a plurality of pores, and wherein the chamber is at least partially formed by the porous membrane such that the porous membrane defines a volume of the chamber and is configured to support the therapeutic powder during operation; a first pressurized gas source in fluid communication with the chamber through the plurality of apertures in the distal portion of the chamber; and an outlet in fluid communication with the chamber, wherein the distal portion of the chamber is disposed proximate the outlet, wherein the first pressurized gas source and the chamber are configured such that a first gas stream from the first pressurized gas source flows around at least a portion of the chamber before entering the plurality of apertures in the distal portion of the chamber to entrain the therapeutic powder in the first gas stream.

2. The therapeutic powder applicator of claim 1, further comprising the therapeutic powder disposed in the chamber.

3. The therapeutic powder applicator of claim 2, wherein: The therapeutic powder is a hemostatic powder.

4. The therapeutic powder applicator of claim 1, wherein: The first pressurized gas source and the chamber are configured to cause entrained therapeutic powder to flow through the outlet.

5. The therapeutic powder applicator of claim 4, wherein: The first pressurized gas source and the outlet are configured such that a second gas stream from the first pressurized gas source flows through the outlet without flowing through the chamber.

6. The therapeutic powder applicator of claim 5, wherein: The relative flow rates of the first gas flow and the second gas flow are adjustable.

7. The therapeutic powder applicator of claim 4, further comprising a second source of pressurized gas, wherein The second pressurized gas source and the outlet are configured such that a second gas stream from the second pressurized gas source flows through the outlet without flowing through the chamber.

8. The therapeutic powder applicator of claim 1, wherein: The therapeutic powder applicator is configured as a handheld applicator, and the outlet is configured to deliver the therapeutic powder to a target area of a subject.

9. The therapeutic powder applicator of claim 1, wherein: The first pressurized gas source is a bellows.

10. The therapeutic powder applicator of claim 1, wherein: The longitudinal axis of the chamber is parallel to an axis passing through the outlet.

11. The therapeutic powder applicator of claim 1 , wherein: The longitudinal axis of the chamber is angled relative to an axis passing through the outlet.

12. The therapeutic powder applicator of claim 1, further comprising a handle configured to rotate relative to the chamber.

13. The therapeutic powder applicator of claim 12, wherein: The handle is configured to rotate about an axis of rotation that is parallel to an axis passing through the outlet.

14. The therapeutic powder applicator of claim 12, wherein: The first pressurized gas source is configured to rotate with the handle as the handle rotates relative to the chamber.

15. The therapeutic powder applicator of claim 12, wherein: The handle is configured to rotate relative to the first pressurized gas source.

16. The therapeutic powder applicator of claim 9, further comprising a first one-way valve configured to prevent backflow into the outlet when the bellows is expanded.

17. The therapeutic powder applicator of claim 16, further comprising a second one-way valve configured to fluidly connect the bellows with an external environment when the bellows is expanded.

18. A therapeutic powder applicator comprising: a chamber configured to contain a therapeutic powder, wherein at least a distal portion of the chamber comprises a porous membrane including a plurality of pores, and wherein the chamber is at least partially formed by the porous membrane such that the porous membrane defines a volume of the chamber and is configured to support the therapeutic powder during operation; a first gas inlet; and an outlet in fluid communication with the chamber, wherein the first gas inlet is in fluid communication with the outlet through the plurality of holes in the distal portion of the chamber, wherein the distal portion of the chamber is disposed proximate to the outlet, wherein the first gas inlet and the chamber are configured such that a first gas stream from the first gas inlet flows around at least a portion of the chamber before entering the plurality of apertures in the distal portion of the chamber to entrain the therapeutic powder in the first gas stream.

19. The therapeutic powder applicator of claim 18, further comprising the therapeutic powder disposed in the chamber.

20. The therapeutic powder applicator of claim 19, wherein: The therapeutic powder is a hemostatic powder.

21. The therapeutic powder applicator of claim 18, further comprising a first conduit extending between the first gas inlet and the chamber.

22. The therapeutic powder applicator of claim 21 further comprising a second conduit extending between the first gas inlet and the outlet such that a second gas stream flows through the outlet without flowing through the chamber.

23. The therapeutic powder applicator of claim 22, further comprising a variable flow resistance disposed along the first conduit and / or the second conduit.

24. The therapeutic powder applicator of claim 21 further comprising a second gas inlet, wherein The second gas inlet is in fluid communication with the outlet such that a second gas stream from the second gas inlet flows through the outlet without flowing through the chamber.

25. The therapeutic powder applicator of claim 18, wherein: The therapeutic powder applicator is configured as a handheld applicator and the outlet is configured to deliver the therapeutic powder to a target area of a subject.

26. The therapeutic powder applicator of claim 18, further comprising a bellows in fluid communication with the first gas inlet.

27. The therapeutic powder applicator of claim 18, wherein: The longitudinal axis of the chamber is parallel to an axis passing through the outlet.

28. The therapeutic powder applicator of claim 18, the longitudinal axis of the chamber being angled relative to an axis passing through the outlet.

29. The therapeutic powder applicator of claim 18, further comprising a handle configured to rotate relative to the chamber.

30. The therapeutic powder applicator of claim 29, wherein: The handle is configured to rotate about an axis of rotation that is parallel to an axis passing through the outlet.

31. The therapeutic powder applicator of claim 29, wherein: The first gas inlet is configured to rotate with the handle when the handle rotates relative to the chamber.

32. The therapeutic powder applicator of claim 29, wherein: The handle is configured to rotate relative to the first gas inlet.

33. The therapeutic powder applicator of claim 18, further comprising a bellows coupled to the first gas inlet, the therapeutic powder applicator further comprising a first one-way valve configured to prevent backflow into the outlet when the bellows is expanded.

34. The therapeutic powder applicator of claim 33, further comprising a second one-way valve configured to fluidly connect the bellows with an external environment when the bellows is expanded.

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