Connecting device for establishing fluid connection between negative pressure wound dressing and negative pressure source, negative pressure wound therapy kit and negative pressure wound therapy system

Abstract

The invention relates to a connecting device (22) for producing a vacuum-tight fluid connection between a vacuum wound dressing (16) and a vacuum source (12), comprising an elongate single-lumen or multi-lumen connecting tube (24), in particular a film tube, comprising a distal end section (28) and a proximal end section (26), wherein the distal end section can be in negative pressure-tight fluid connection with a negative pressure wound dressing, and wherein the proximal end section can be in negative pressure-tight fluid connection with a negative pressure source; and a support unit (46) which is arranged in a hose cavity (38) of the connection hose, the support unit supporting the connection hose against collapse, in particular due to negative pressure, and allowing a fluid to pass through in the longitudinal extension direction of the hose cavity, the invention proposes that the support unit comprises at least one flat material web section (48); the flat material web section is designed to support the connecting hose in such a way that the flat material web section is structured by a projection (54) integrally formed in a plane (52) of the flat material web section; a continuous gap (56) is formed between the projections, so that fluid can pass through the gap to be conveyed along the longitudinal extension direction of the hose cavity.

Description

Field of the Invention

[0001] The present invention relates to a connecting device for establishing a negative pressure seal fluid connection between a negative pressure wound dressing and a negative pressure source. The present invention also relates to a negative pressure wound treatment kit having such a connecting device. In addition, the present invention also relates to a negative pressure wound treatment system, which includes a negative pressure source and such a negative pressure wound treatment kit. Background Art

[0002] Negative pressure wound therapy, also known as NPWT (Negative-Pressure Wound Therapy), is an innovative wound treatment method applicable to a variety of indications. Among them, for example, it includes acute skin or soft tissue defects, wound healing disorders, chronic wounds, etc. The purpose of negative pressure treatment is to stimulate granulation tissue growth and promote the healing process. For this purpose, within the scope of negative pressure treatment, a negative pressure is generated in the wound area, so that wound exudate can be effectively discharged from the wound.

[0003] The negative pressure wound dressing used in negative pressure treatment usually includes an airtight covering layer for gas-tightly closing the wound. A connection opening is formed in the covering layer for establishing a negative pressure seal fluid connection between the wound site and the negative pressure source. When the negative pressure wound dressing is applied to the wound as expected and the negative pressure source is fluidly connected to the connection opening in a negative pressure seal, a negative pressure can be generated at the wound site by the negative pressure source. In order to establish a negative pressure seal fluid connection between the negative pressure wound dressing and the negative pressure source, a connecting device including a long, extended single-chamber or multi-chamber connecting hose is usually used. The proximal end section of the connecting hose can be fluidly connected to the negative pressure source in a negative pressure seal. The distal end section of the connecting hose can be fluidly connected to the negative pressure wound dressing in a negative pressure seal. In order to prevent the connecting hose from collapsing due to negative pressure during negative pressure treatment, a support unit is usually arranged in the hose cavity of the connecting hose. The support unit allows fluid (such as air and especially wound exudate) to pass through in the longitudinal extension direction of the hose cavity.

[0004] For example, a connecting device of this type is known from the published document WO 2012 087 376A1. Various embodiments of the support unit are proposed in the document. For example, the support unit can include open-cell foam, spacer fabric or non-woven fabric. Another connecting device of this type is described in the published document WO 2013 175 306A1. Accordingly, the support unit can include a porous material such as three-dimensional knitted fabric. Although the support units described in WO 2012 087 376A1 and WO 2013 175 306A1 meet the basic requirements of the support unit. However, the proposed materials cause a relatively high cost burden. This has been tolerated in previously known connecting devices. Summary of the Invention

[0005] The object on which the present invention is based is to provide in a connecting device for negative pressure wound treatment the possibility of ensuring effective support for a connecting hose by means of cost-effective components.

[0006] According to the invention, this object is achieved by a connecting device according to claim 1, a negative pressure wound treatment kit according to claim 21, and a negative pressure wound treatment system according to claim 22.

[0007] The dependent claims and the description give advantageous variants and embodiments.

[0008] Thus, according to the invention, there is provided a connecting device for establishing a negative pressure-tight fluid connection between a negative pressure wound dressing and a negative pressure source. The connecting device comprises an elongate single- or multi-chamber connecting hose, in particular a film hose, which comprises a distal end section and a proximal end section. The distal end section is capable of being in negative pressure-tight fluid connection with the negative pressure wound dressing. The proximal end section is capable of being in negative pressure-tight fluid connection with the negative pressure source.

[0009] The terms "distal" and "proximal" describe the arrangement relative to the negative pressure source. The proximal section of an element is closer to the negative pressure source than the distal section of that element. In this context, for example when the connecting hose is used as intended, the proximal end section of the connecting hose is closer to the negative pressure source than the distal end section.

[0010] Herein, "negative pressure-tight fluid connection" is to be understood as meaning that, taking into account the negative pressure source used, a negative pressure required for wound treatment can be maintained in cavities that are in fluid connection with each other. Generally, within the scope of negative pressure treatment, a pressure difference is set between the air pressure in the negative pressure wound dressing and the ambient air pressure, which pressure difference is at least 20 mmHg (millimeters of mercury) to at most 250 mmHg. 1 mmHg is equal to one Torr or 133.322 Pa (Pascals).

[0011] The connecting device according to the invention further comprises a support unit arranged in the hose cavity of the connecting hose. The support unit supports the connecting hose against collapse, in particular due to negative pressure, and allows fluid (such as air and in particular wound exudate) to pass through in the longitudinal extension direction of the hose cavity.

[0012] In this case, it is proposed that the support unit comprises at least one flat material web section; the flat material web section is designed to support the connecting hose in such a way that the flat material web section is structured by means of projections integrally formed in the plane of the flat material web section; and continuous gaps are formed between these projections such that fluid (such as air and in particular wound exudate) can be conveyed through the gaps in the longitudinal extension direction of the hose cavity.

[0013] Surprisingly, it has been found that the flat material web section designed in the above manner is particularly suitable in terms of its properties as a support unit or as a component of a support unit. A continuous gap is formed between the projections according to the invention. By means of the gap that allows fluid to pass through, a negative pressure can be introduced into the negative pressure wound dressing by means of a negative pressure source. Under the action of the negative pressure, the hose wall of the connecting hose is subjected to an inward pressure. In particular, this pressure causes the wall section of the hose wall opposite the projection to abut against the protruding end side of the projection. However, the continuous gap is not thereby closed, thus reliably preventing the collapse of the connecting hose. The collapse of the connecting hose can be understood as the closure of the connecting hose.

[0014] The flat material web section designed according to the invention can be obtained cost-effectively. This is especially due to the fact that the formation of the projections can be advantageously integrated into the manufacture of the flat material web section. Using the flat material web section as a support unit or as a component of a support unit also has the advantage that a connecting hose with a low structural height can be achieved. Such a flat connecting hose offers a high level of comfort to the patient.

[0015] The flat material web section is a section of a flat material web. For example, the flat material web section is cut out from the flat material web. Preferably, the projections are already formed in the flat material web. However, the projections can also be formed only in the flat material web section. In particular, the flat material web is a plastic film web, so the flat material web section is designed as a plastic film.

[0016] Preferably, the flat material web section has a projection density of at least 50 projections per cm2, preferably at least 100 projections per cm2, particularly preferably at least 200 projections per cm2. Such a high projection density involves small-sized projections. Thus, the projections and, if necessary, the end-side through-holes present only have a slight impact on the stability of the flat material web section. On the other hand, it is also advantageous to limit the projection density so that the distance between adjacent projections is large enough to allow fluid to pass through. Preferably, the flat material web section has a projection density of at most 1000 projections per cm2, preferably at most 500 projections per cm2. Particularly preferably, the projection density of the flat material web section is from at least 200 projections per cm2 to at most 400 projections per cm2.

[0017] The connecting hose can be designed as single-chamber or multi-chamber. For a single-chamber connecting hose, there is only a single hose chamber that extends from the distal end section to the proximal end section. When the connecting device is used as intended, the hose chamber serves as the suction chamber. For a multi-chamber connecting hose, the hose chamber is divided into a plurality of sub-chambers that respectively extend from the distal end section to the proximal end section. Preferably, these sub-chambers are connected to the inlet openings formed in the distal end section in parallel with each other, wherein each sub-chamber is provided with a respective through-passage in the region of the proximal end section. For such a multi-chamber connecting hose, when the connecting device is used as intended, the first sub-chamber among the sub-chambers serves as the suction chamber. The second sub-chamber among the sub-chambers can be used as a flushing chamber and / or a measuring chamber, for example.

[0018] According to a preferred embodiment, the protrusions are designed to be conical, cylindrical, frustoconical or hyperboloidal. The protrusions shaped in this way can effectively support the hose wall of the connecting hose. In addition, highly branched gaps are formed. The advantage is that even if the gaps are blocked at some isolated locations (for example, between two adjacent protrusions), fluid can still be conveyed. Preferably, the protrusions are arranged to be isolated from each other in an island-like manner. Preferably, the height of the protrusions is from 200 μm to 1000 μm.

[0019] According to a preferred embodiment, it is proposed that in at least the central region of the flat material web section, each of the protrusions is surrounded by three to eight other protrusions, and these other protrusions together form a regular polygon. Arranging the protrusions in this way ensures particularly effective support for the hose wall. Particularly preferably, these other protrusions form a regular hexagon.

[0020] According to a preferred embodiment, it is proposed that the protrusions are formed on the first side of the flat material web section, and the second side of the flat material web section facing away from the first side is designed to be smooth. It has been proven that the protrusions on only one side of the flat material web section are sufficient to effectively support the hose wall. In addition, the continuous gaps on only one side of the flat material web section also achieve sufficient permeability of the fluid in the longitudinal extension direction of the hose chamber. The flat material web section with a smooth second side is easy to manufacture in terms of manufacturing technology.

[0021] Here, the "smooth side" of a certain layer should not be understood as meaning that the smooth side must have no unevenness at all. More precisely, the "smooth side" refers to the side that is smoother compared to the first side of the flat material web section structured by the protrusions. Correspondingly, there may also be unevenness on the smooth side of a certain layer, for example, unevenness caused by uneven material thickness of the relevant layer. However, any unevenness is at a smaller order of magnitude in terms of its height compared to the protrusions on the structured first side of the flat material web section.

[0022] Preferably, the protrusions are formed by vacuum deep drawing. This way of forming the protrusions can be integrated into the manufacture of the flat material web or flat material web section in a time-saving manner. For example, for this purpose, a flat material web (especially a plastic film web) that has been calendered or extruded and is still in a molten state is guided onto a rotating, perforated negative pressure roller. Then, the flat material web is locally sucked into the holes of the vacuum perforation roller by the negative pressure in the perforated negative pressure roller, thereby forming the protrusions. Here, the shape of the obtained protrusions is determined, for example, by the contour of the holes and the magnitude of the negative pressure used.

[0023] According to a preferred embodiment, it is proposed that the flat material web section is made of polyethylene, polyurethane, polyvinyl chloride or a mixture thereof. These plastics are particularly suitable for forming the flat material web section due to their properties. On the one hand, these plastics have sufficient flexibility, which relates to the high comfort of the patient. For example, pressure ulcers can be avoided by implementing the connecting hose flexibly. In addition, a flat material web section with sufficient rigidity can also be achieved, so as to ensure that the protrusions can reliably support the hose wall.

[0024] According to a preferred embodiment, it is proposed that end-side through holes are formed in at least some of the protrusions, especially in all of the protrusions. The end-side through holes can improve the distribution of fluids, especially wound exudate, in the hose lumen. Specifically, the fluid can pass through the flat material web section via the end-side through holes and then be distributed on both sides of the flat material web section in the hose lumen. In terms of manufacturing technology, the end-side through holes are easily formed. Preferably, the negative pressure used during vacuum deep drawing is adjusted so that the end sides of at least some of the protrusions are opened. Thus, the protrusions and the end-side through holes are formed in the same process. The presence of the end-side through holes is preferred. However, the present disclosure also covers flat material web sections without end-side through holes.

[0025] Preferably, the diameter of the end-side through holes is at least 100 μm, preferably at least 200 μm. Preferably, the diameter of the end-side through holes is at most 1000 μm, preferably at most 500 μm. Particularly preferably, the diameter of the end-side through holes is at least 200 μm and at most 500 μm.

[0026] According to a preferred embodiment, at least one planar side through-hole is formed in the plane of the flat material web section. Through one or more planar side through-holes, the distribution of fluid, especially wound exudate, in the hose lumen can also be improved. In addition, the planar side through-holes have the advantage that they can be formed independently of the protrusions. For example, after forming the protrusions and possible end-side through-holes, the planar side through-holes are formed by stamping in the flat material web or the flat material web section. In particular, the planar side through-holes are arranged between the protrusions. However, the planar side through-holes can also overlap with the protrusions. This is the case, for example, when the planar side through-holes are formed by stamping, in which part of the protrusion is also punched out during the stamping process. Preferably, the planar side through-holes exist as a supplement to the end-side through-holes. However, the planar side through-holes can also exist as an alternative to the end-side through-holes. In addition, the present disclosure also covers flat material web sections in which neither planar side through-holes nor end-side through-holes exist.

[0027] Preferably, the flat material web section extends into the distal end section. Correspondingly, the distal end section is also supported by the flat material web section to prevent collapse.

[0028] According to a preferred embodiment, at least one planar side through-hole is formed in the plane of the flat material web section in the region of the distal end section. This arrangement is particularly preferred for the planar side through-holes. When using the connecting device in negative pressure therapy, the wound exudate enters the connecting hose in the region of the distal end section. The planar side through-holes in the region of the distal end section increase the permeability of the flat material web section in this region. Correspondingly, the wound exudate can already be effectively distributed on both sides of the flat material web section in the region of the distal end section. In particular, one or more planar side through-holes exist only in the region of the distal end section.

[0029] According to a preferred embodiment, the connecting hose includes an elongated intermediate section, and the distal end section is widened in surface area compared to the intermediate section. By widening the distal end section, the contact area between the distal end section and the negative pressure wound dressing is increased. By increasing the contact area, a mechanically particularly stable connection can be achieved between the negative pressure wound dressing and the distal end section. In addition, possible unevenness in the negative pressure wound dressing can be more easily compensated for by the surface-widened distal end section. Preferably, the distal end section is widened in a disc shape or a rectangular shape.

[0030] According to a preferred embodiment, it is proposed that the connecting hose comprises a first layer and a second layer, wherein these layers are connected to each other at their edge regions and together enclose a hose cavity. By means of this multi-layer design of the connecting hose, the arrangement of the support unit in the hose cavity is simplified. For example, when manufacturing the connecting device, the first layer, the support unit and the second layer are stacked together. Only then are the first layer and the second layer connected to each other at their edge regions.

[0031] According to a preferred embodiment, it is proposed that the first layer is designed to be at least substantially flat, and a flat material web section extends parallel to the first layer. The flat first layer has the advantage that it can ensure that the connecting hose lies flat against the wound dressing or the surrounding tissue. The orientation of the flat material web section parallel to the first layer is preferred because in this way kinking or any other deformation of the flat material web section is prevented when the connecting device is used in negative pressure therapy.

[0032] According to a preferred embodiment, it is proposed that the distal end section comprises at least one inlet opening, and the inlet opening is formed in the first layer. Thus, the negative pressure sealing fluid connection between the distal end section and the negative pressure wound dressing is simplified. The flat first layer can advantageously be adapted to the region of the covering layer of the negative pressure wound dressing that surrounds the connection opening.

[0033] According to a preferred embodiment, it is proposed that a projection extends outwards from the first layer. In the projection, wound exudate is transported towards the end-side through-hole due to capillary forces. If the projection extends outwards from the first layer, the capillary forces contribute to the transport of the wound exudate through the flat material web section. Thus, the wound exudate can be effectively distributed on both sides of the flat material web section.

[0034] According to a preferred embodiment, it is proposed that the flat material web section is releasably inserted into the hose cavity. Such a connecting device can be realized in a time-saving manner during the manufacturing process and with a small number of process steps. Alternatively, the flat material web section is connected to the connecting hose, for example, by an adhesive connection or a welding connection.

[0035] According to a preferred embodiment, it is proposed that a flexible connecting piece is arranged at the distal end section, wherein the hose cavity is in fluid connection with the surrounding environment through at least one through-hole formed in the connecting piece. Thus, the hose cavity can be in negative pressure sealing fluid connection with the negative pressure wound dressing through the through-hole in the connecting piece. The connecting piece increases the contact area between the connecting device and the negative pressure wound dressing, so that a more reliable connection can be achieved. Preferably, the first side of the connecting piece facing away from the distal end section is designed to be at least partially adhesive. For example, a double-sided adhesive tape is arranged on the first side of the connecting piece.

[0036] According to a preferred embodiment, it is proposed that the support unit includes at least one additional flat material web section; the additional flat material web section is designed to support the connecting hose in such a way that the additional flat material web section is structured by protrusions integrally formed in the plane of the additional flat material web section; continuous gaps are formed between these protrusions so that a fluid (such as air and especially wound exudate) can be transported through the gaps along the longitudinal extension direction of the hose lumen; and the flat material web section and the additional flat material web section are arranged stacked on top of each other. By providing at least one additional flat material web section, a hose lumen with a larger cross-section can be supported. The features described in connection with the flat material web section can be used to further design the additional flat material web section. Preferably, the flat material web sections have the same design. However, the flat material web sections can also differ from each other in at least one feature, for example in the shape and / or material composition of the protrusions. It is preferred that there are a plurality of flat material web sections arranged stacked on top of each other. However, the present disclosure also covers a support unit having only one flat material web section.

[0037] Preferably, the flat material web sections are arranged such that the protrusions of the flat material web sections protrude in the same direction. The advantage is that the gaps between the protrusions of one flat material web section are not blocked by the protrusions of another flat material web section. Otherwise, such gap blockage may affect fluid transport.

[0038] According to a preferred embodiment, it is proposed that a breathable but liquid-impermeable filter unit is arranged in the hose lumen, and the filter unit filters between the inlet of the connecting hose and the outlet of the connecting hose. Since the filter unit is designed to be breathable, negative pressure can be introduced into the receiving space through the filter unit. Since the filter unit is designed to be liquid-impermeable, when the connecting device is used in negative pressure therapy, the filter unit prevents liquids (such as wound exudate) from entering the downstream negative pressure source. Otherwise, the negative pressure source may be contaminated and / or damaged. Preferably, the filter unit is arranged in the region of the proximal end section.

[0039] The object to be achieved is also achieved by a negative pressure wound therapy kit, which includes a negative pressure wound dressing and a connecting device having the above-described features, wherein the distal end section of the connecting device can be fluidly connected to the negative pressure wound dressing in a negative pressure-tight manner, and wherein the proximal end section of the connecting device can be fluidly connected to the negative pressure source in a negative pressure-tight manner.

[0040] Regarding the advantages achievable by the negative pressure wound therapy kit, reference is made to the relevant embodiments of the connecting device. The features described in connection with the connecting device can be used to further design the negative pressure wound therapy kit.

[0041] The object to be achieved is also achieved by a negative pressure wound therapy system, which comprises a negative pressure wound therapy kit having the above-described features. The negative pressure wound therapy system according to the invention further comprises a negative pressure source, wherein the proximal end section of the connecting hose can be fluid-connected to the negative pressure source in a negatively sealed manner.

[0042] Regarding the advantages achievable by the negative pressure wound therapy system, reference is made to the relevant embodiments of the connecting device. The features described in connection with the connecting device can be used to further design the negative pressure wound therapy system. Description of the Drawings

[0043] In the following, the invention is described in detail with the aid of the drawings, wherein identical or functionally identical elements are only labeled with the same reference numeral once, if necessary. These drawings are only examples and should not be construed as restrictive. In the drawings:

[0044] Figure 1 A negative pressure wound therapy system is shown, which has a connecting device comprising an elongate connecting hose,

[0045] Figure 2 is shown Figure 1 a longitudinal section of the connecting hose shown,

[0046] Figure 3 is shown Figure 1 a cross-section of the connecting hose shown,

[0047] Figure 4 a top view of a section of a flat material web arranged in the hose cavity of the connecting hose is shown,

[0048] Figure 5 is shown Figure 4 a sectional view of the flat material web section shown along the cutting line A-A,

[0049] Figure 6 a longitudinal section of another embodiment of the connecting hose is shown,

[0050] Figure 7 a top view of another embodiment of the connecting device is shown, and

[0051] Figure 8 a cross-section of another embodiment of the connecting hose is shown. Detailed Description of the Invention

[0052] Figure 1Shown is a negative pressure wound therapy system 10 for treating wounds with negative pressure. The negative pressure wound therapy system 10 includes a negative pressure source 12 and a negative pressure wound therapy kit 14. The negative pressure wound therapy kit 14 includes a negative pressure wound dressing 16, which is hereinafter referred to as the wound dressing 16. The wound dressing 16 includes a wound contact layer for application to the wound surface and an airtight covering layer 20. In Figure 1 the wound contact layer is covered by the covering layer 20 and is thus not visible. The negative pressure wound therapy kit 14 also includes a connecting device 22. The connecting device 22 includes an elongated connecting hose 24 having a proximal end section 26 and a distal end section 28. The proximal end section 26 can be fluidly connected to the negative pressure source 12 in a negative pressure-tight manner. The distal end section 28 can be fluidly connected to a connection opening 21 formed in the covering layer 20 in a negative pressure-tight manner. In Figure 1 the shown negative pressure wound therapy system 10, the distal end section 28 has been connected to the connection opening 21, so that the connection opening 21 is covered by the distal end section 28.

[0053] The surface of the distal end section 28 is widened compared to the elongated intermediate section 30 of the connecting hose 24. Here, the distal end section 28 is widened in a disc shape. By widening the distal end section 28, the connection of the distal end section 28 to the connection opening 21 of the wound dressing 16 is simplified.

[0054] Hereinafter, reference is also made to Figure 2 and Figure 3 for a detailed description of the structure of the connecting device 22. For this purpose, Figure 2 and Figure 3 show Figure 1 a longitudinal cross-sectional view and a cross-sectional view of the shown connecting hose 24.

[0055] In the present embodiment, the connecting hose 24 includes a lower or first layer 32 and an upper or second layer 34. The layers 32 and 34 are connected to each other at their edge regions 33 and 35 and together enclose a hose cavity 38 of the connecting hose 24. The first layer 32 and the second layer 34 form the hose wall of the connecting hose 24. Here, the layers 32 and 34 are designed as film layers. Correspondingly, the connecting hose 24 is a film hose.

[0056] Preferably, the layers 32 and 34 are made of polyurethane, polyvinyl chloride, polyethylene, silicone resin or a mixture thereof. Preferably, the edge regions 33 and 35 of the layers 32 and 34 are connected to each other by an adhesive connection or a welding connection. The adhesive connection can be carried out, for example, by applying an adhesive or by means of a tape. The welding connection can be carried out, for example, by heating or by ultrasonic waves.

[0057] The first layer 32 is designed to be at least substantially flat. If the connecting device 22 is connected to the wound dressing 16 as intended, the first layer 32 faces the wound dressing 16. Since the first layer 32 is designed to be at least substantially flat, it is ensured that the first layer 32 lies flat against the wound dressing 16 or the surrounding tissue. The second layer 34 is designed to arch outwards.

[0058] The distal end section 28 includes an inlet opening 36. The inlet opening 36 is formed in the first layer 32. As Figure 1 shown, if the distal end section 28 is connected to the wound dressing 16 as intended, the connection opening 21 in the wound dressing 16 and the inlet opening 36 at least partially overlap each other.

[0059] In Figure 1 、 Figure 2 and Figure 3 the illustrated embodiment, the connecting hose 24 is designed to be single-chambered, as can be seen from Figure 3 . Correspondingly, the hose chamber 38 is not divided into a plurality of sub-chambers. When the connecting device 22 is used as intended, the hose chamber 38 serves as a suction chamber. In order to connect the hose chamber 38 to the negative pressure source 12, the connecting element 42 extends into the hose chamber 38 in the region of the proximal end section 26 via a through-passage formed between the edge region 33 of the first layer 32 and the edge region 35 of the second layer 34.

[0060] The connecting device 22 further includes a support unit 46, which supports the connecting hose 24 to prevent collapse especially due to negative pressure. The support unit 46 includes a plurality of flat material web sections 48-1, 48-2 and 48-3. The flat material web sections 48-1, 48-2 and 48-3 are arranged in the hose chamber 38 and extend in the longitudinal extension direction of the connecting hose 24. Here, the flat material web sections 48-1, 48-2 and 48-3 extend from the proximal end section 26 to the distal end section 28.

[0061] Hereinafter, reference is also made to Figure 4 and Figure 5 to elaborate in detail on the design of the flat material web section 48. For this purpose, Figure 4 shows a top view of one of the flat material web sections 48. It should be noted that only a part of the flat material web section 48 is shown in Figure 4 . Correspondingly, the actual outer contour of the flat material web section 48 deviates from the outer contour shown in Figure 4 . Figure 5 shows a cross-sectional view of the flat material web section 48 along the cutting line A-A shown in Figure 4 .

[0062] The flat material web section 48 extends in two planar directions X and Y. To support the connecting hose 24, the first side 50 of the flat material web section 48 is structurally designed by means of projections 54 integrally formed in the plane 52 of the flat material web section 48. A continuous gap 56 is formed between the projections 54. Through the gap 56, a fluid (such as air and especially wound exudate) can be conveyed in the longitudinal extension direction of the hose lumen 38.

[0063] In at least some of the projections 54, end-side through-holes 58 are formed in the protruding end sides 60 of the associated projections 54. Here, end-side through-holes 58 are respectively formed in all the projections 54. Through the end-side through-holes 58, the fluid can pass through the flat material web section 48 and then be distributed on both sides of the flat material web section 48. The second side 62 of the flat material web section 48 facing away from the structured first side 50 is designed to be smooth.

[0064] Preferably, the projection density on the first side 50 of the flat material web section 48 is at least 200 projections 54 per cm2 to at most 400 projections 54 per cm2. Here, the projection density is about 280 projections 54 per cm2. Preferably, the diameter of the end-side through-holes 58 is at least 200 μm and at most 500 μm. The height of the projections 54 is preferably at least 200 μm and at most 1000 μm.

[0065] To form the continuous gap 56, the projections 54 are arranged isolated from one another in islands. In the illustrated embodiment, the shape of the projections 54 resembles a hyperboloid of one sheet. Here, the projections 54 are thus designed to be hyperboloid-shaped. For this purpose, the covering walls of the projections 54 are reciprocally curved. Alternatively, the projections 54 are preferably designed to be conical (i.e., frustum-shaped), cylindrical or truncated conical.

[0066] The projections 54 are distributed and arranged in such a way that at least in the central region of the flat material web section 48, each of the projections 54 is surrounded by three to eight further projections 54, where the further projections 54 together form a regular polygon. Here, these further projections 54 together form a regular hexagon. That is, at least in the central region of the flat material web section 48, each of the projections 54 is surrounded by six further projections 54.

[0067] Here, the flat material web section 48 is a plastic film 48. Preferably, the plastic film 48 is made of polyethylene, polyurethane, polyvinyl chloride or a mixture thereof. These plastics have the advantage that a flexible connecting hose 24 is obtained, which relates to a high level of comfort for the patient. Thus, the occurrence of pressure ulcers can be avoided, for example, by implementing the connecting hose 24 flexibly. In addition, the above-mentioned plastics also have sufficient rigidity. In this regard, these plastics ensure that when using the connecting device 22, the continuous gap 56 can still be maintained despite the generation of negative pressure.

[0068] The projection 54 is produced by vacuum deep drawing. Preferably, for this purpose, an extruded or calendered, still fusible flat material web (in particular a plastic film web) is guided onto a rotating, perforated negative pressure roller. Then, the flat material web is locally sucked into the holes of the vacuum perforation roller by the negative pressure in the perforated negative pressure roller, thereby forming the projection 54. Here, the shape of the obtained projection 54 is determined, for example, by the contour of the holes and the negative pressure used. Preferably, the negative pressure in the perforated negative pressure roller is adjusted such that the end side 60 of the projection 54 is open. Thus, the projection 54 and the end side through hole 58 are formed in the same process.

[0069] The flat material web section 48 is arranged in the hose cavity 38 parallel to the flat first layer 32. Here, the flat material web section 48 is arranged such that the projection 54 extends in the direction towards the second layer 34, i.e., extends outwards from the first layer 32. This helps to convey the wound exudate through the flat material web section 48 in the direction towards the second layer 34, such that the wound exudate is distributed on both sides of the flat material web section 48. Specifically, in the projection 54, capillary forces act on the wound exudate, which is conducive to the conveyance in the direction towards the second layer 34.

[0070] In Figure 1 、 Figure 2 and Figure 3 In the illustrated embodiment, three flat material web sections 48 are arranged in the hose cavity 38. However, the number of flat material web sections 48 may also not be three. Correspondingly, there may also be more than three or less than three flat material web sections 48.

[0071] The flat material web section 48 is releasably inserted into the hose cavity 38. Alternatively, the flat material web section 48 is connected to the first layer 32 and / or the second layer 34, for example, by an adhesive connection or a welding connection.

[0072] Figure 6 Shows a view corresponding to Figure 2 of another embodiment of the connecting hose 24. Figure 6 The illustrated connecting hose 24 differs from Figure 2 the illustrated connecting hose 24 in that, in the region of the distal end section 28, a plurality of planar side through holes 64 are formed in the plane 52 of the flat material web section 48. For example, the planar side through holes 64 are formed by stamping in the flat material web section 48.

[0073] The planar side through-holes 64 can already be formed in the flat material web or only in the flat material web section 48. The planar side through-holes 64 improve the permeability of the flat material web section 48 to wound exudate. The presence of the planar side through-holes 64 is particularly advantageous in the region of the distal end section 28, since in this way an effective distribution of the wound exudate orthogonal to the planar directions X and Y already takes place in the distal end section 28.

[0074] In Figure 6 the illustrated embodiment, the planar side through-holes 64 are present as a supplement to the end-side through-holes 58. According to another embodiment, the planar side through-holes 64 are present as an alternative to the end-side through-holes 58. In such an embodiment, preferably one or more planar side through-holes 64 are also formed in the flat material web section 48 outside the distal end section 28.

[0075] Figure 7 Another embodiment of the connecting device 22 is shown. In Figure 7 the illustrated connecting device 22, a flexible deformable connecting tab 66 is arranged at the distal end section 28. The hose chamber 38 is in fluid connection with the surroundings through at least one through-hole formed in the connecting tab 66, wherein this through-hole is not visible in Figure 7 the [description]. The through-hole in the connecting tab 66 at least partially overlaps with the inlet opening 36 of the distal end section 28. Through the connecting tab 66, a mechanically particularly stable connection can be established between the wound dressing 16 and the connecting device 22. Specifically, the connecting tab 66 increases the contact area between the connecting device 22 and the covering layer 20 of the wound dressing 16. Preferably, the first side of the connecting tab 66 facing away from the distal end section 28 is designed to be at least partially adhesive. Correspondingly, an adhesive connection can be established between the connecting tab 66 and the covering layer 20.

[0076] Figure 8 An illustration corresponding to Figure 3 another embodiment of the connecting hose 24 is shown. In Figure 8 the illustrated embodiment, the connecting hose 24 is designed to be multi-chambered. For this purpose, the hose chamber 38 is divided into a first sub-chamber 38-1 and a second sub-chamber 38-2.

[0077] These two sub-chambers 38-1 and 38-2 are in fluid connection with the inlet opening 36 of the distal end section 28 in parallel with each other. In the region of the proximal end section 26, these two sub-chambers 38-1 and 38-2 each include their respective through-passages. When the multi-chamber connecting hose 24 is used as intended, the first hose chamber 38-1 serves as a suction chamber. The second hose chamber 38-2 can be used, for example, as a flushing chamber and / or a measuring chamber.

[0078] To form these two sub-chambers 38-1 and 38-2, the first layer 32 is locally connected to the second layer 34 in a material-mating manner (preferably by welding).

[0079] In the illustrated embodiment, the flat material web section 48 extends simultaneously in the first sub-chamber 38-1 and the second sub-chamber 38-2. The material-mating connection between the first layer 32 and the second layer 34 is an indirect material-mating connection, i.e., a material-mating connection is made by means of the support layer 48 of the support unit 46. Preferably, this indirect material-mating connection is achieved by welding. Here, the first layer 32, the second layer 34, and the support layer 48 located therebetween are locally heated to a temperature above their melting temperature so that they are welded together. Specifically, the first layer 32 is directly connected to the first flat material web section 48-1 in a material-mating manner. The second layer 34 is directly connected to the third flat material web section 48-3 in a material-mating manner. In addition, the flat material web sections 48 are connected to each other in a material-mating manner.

[0080] According to another embodiment, the flat material web section 48 extends only in the first sub-chamber 38-1 serving as the suction chamber. In this arrangement of the flat material web section 48, the material-mating connection between the first layer 32 and the second layer 34 is preferably a direct material-mating connection.

Claims

1. A connecting device (22) for establishing a negative pressure seal fluid connection between a negative pressure wound dressing (16) and a negative pressure source (12), the connecting device having: an elongate single-chamber or multi-chamber connecting hose (24), in particular a film hose, the connecting hose including a distal end section (28) and a proximal end section (26), wherein the distal end section (28) can be fluidly connected to the negative pressure wound dressing (16) in a negative pressure sealed manner, and wherein the proximal end section (26) can be fluidly connected to the negative pressure source (12) in a negative pressure sealed manner; and a support unit (46), the support unit being arranged in a hose chamber (38) of the connecting hose (24), wherein the support unit (46) supports the connecting hose (24) to prevent collapse especially caused by negative pressure and allows fluid to pass in the longitudinal extension direction of the hose chamber (38), characterized in that the support unit (46) includes at least one flat material web section (48); the flat material web section (48) is designed to support the connecting hose (24) in such a way that the flat material web section is structured by protrusions (54) integrally formed in a plane (52) of the flat material web section (48); and continuous gaps (56) are formed between the protrusions (54) such that fluid can be conveyed through the gaps (56) in the longitudinal extension direction of the hose chamber (38).

2. The connecting device (22) according to claim 1, characterized in that, The protrusions (54) are designed to be conical, cylindrical, frustoconical or hyperbolic.

3. The connecting device (22) according to one of claims 1 and 2, characterized in that At least in a central region of the flat material web section (48), each of the protrusions (54) is surrounded by three to eight other protrusions (54), wherein the other protrusions (54) together form a regular polygon, in particular a regular hexagon.

4. The connecting device (22) according to one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that, The protrusions (54) are formed on a first side (50) of the flat material web section (48), and a second side (62) of the flat material web section (48) facing away from the first side (50) is designed to be smooth.

5. The connecting device (22) according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that, The protrusions (54) are formed by vacuum deep drawing.

6. The connecting device (22) according to any one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that, The flat material web section (48) is made of polyethylene, polyurethane, polyvinyl chloride or a mixture thereof.

7. The connecting device (22) according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that, End-side through holes (58) are formed in at least some of the protrusions (54), especially in all of the protrusions (54).

8. The connecting device (22) according to any one of claims 1 to 7, characterized in that At least one planar-side through hole (64) is formed in the plane (52) of the flat material web section (48).

9. The connecting device (22) according to any one of claims 1 to 8, characterized in that, The flat material web section (48) extends into the distal end section (28).

10. The connecting device (22) according to claim 9, characterized in that, At least one planar-side through hole (64) is formed in the plane (52) of the flat material web section (48) in the region of the distal end section (28).

11. The connecting device (22) according to any one of claims 1 to 10, characterized in that, The connecting hose (24) includes an elongate intermediate section (30), and the distal end section (28) has a widened surface compared to the intermediate section (30), especially wherein the distal end section (28) is widened in a disk shape or a rectangular shape.

12. The connecting device (22) according to any one of claims 1 to 11, characterized in that, The connecting hose (24) comprises a first layer (32) and a second layer (34), wherein the layers (32, 34) are connected to one another at their edge regions (33, 35) and together delimit the hose cavity (38).

13. The connecting device (22) according to claim 12, characterized in that, The first layer (32) is designed to be at least substantially flat, and the flat material web section (48) extends parallel to the first layer (32).

14. The connecting device (22) according to claim 13, characterized in that, The distal end section (28) comprises at least one inlet opening (36), and the inlet opening (36) is formed in the first layer (32).

15. The connecting device (22) according to claim 14, characterized in that, The projection (54) of the flat material web section (48) extends outward from the first layer (32).

16. The connecting device (22) according to any one of claims 1 to 15, characterized in that, The flat material web section (48) can be loosely inserted into the hose cavity (38), or the flat material web section (48) is connected to the connecting hose (24), in particular by adhesive bonding or welding.

17. The connecting device (22) according to any one of claims 1 to 16, characterized in that, At the distal end section (28), a flexibly deformable connecting piece (66) is arranged, wherein the hose cavity (38) is in fluid connection with the surroundings through at least one through-hole formed in the connecting piece (38).

18. The connecting device (22) according to one of claims 1 to 17, characterized in that, The support unit (46) comprises at least one further flat material web section (48); the further flat material web section (48) is designed to support the connecting hose (24) in such a way that the further flat material web section is structured by projections (54) integrally formed in the plane (52) of the further flat material web section (48); continuous gaps (56) are formed between the projections (54) such that fluid can be conveyed through the gaps (56) in the longitudinal extension direction of the hose cavity (38); and the flat material web section (48) and the further flat material web section (48) are arranged stacked on one another.

19. The connecting device (22) according to claim 18, characterized in that, The flat material web section (48) is arranged such that the projections (54) of the flat material web section (48) project in the same direction.

20. The connecting device (22) according to any one of claims 1 to 19, characterized in that, In the hose cavity (38), a breathable but liquid-impermeable filter unit is arranged, which filters between the inlet and the outlet of the connecting hose (24).

21. A negative pressure wound treatment kit (14) having a negative pressure wound dressing (16) and a connecting device (22) according to one of claims 1 to 20, wherein the distal end section (28) of the connecting device (22) can be in fluid connection with the negative pressure wound dressing (16) in a negative pressure-tight manner, and wherein the proximal end section (26) of the connecting device (22) can be in fluid connection with a negative pressure source (12) in a negative pressure-tight manner.

22. A negative pressure wound treatment system (10) having the negative pressure wound treatment kit (14) according to claim 21 and a negative pressure source (12), wherein the proximal end section (26) of the connecting device (22) can be in fluid connection with the negative pressure source (12) in a negative pressure-tight manner.

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