Folded surgical cloth, in particular surgical cloth for hip surgery

Abstract

The invention relates to a folded surgical cloth (10), comprising an upper region (13) and a leg region (16). In particular, the upper region (13) has an anesthesia region (12) which can be arranged on the head side and a central region (14) adjoining the leg region, wherein the surgical cloth (10) has a longitudinal central axis (32), which runs from the upper region (13), in particular from the anesthesia region (12), to the leg region (16) over the central region (14) and which defines a longitudinal direction, a proximal surface which faces the patient, and a distal surface which faces away from the patient. The leg region (16) has two longitudinal edges (28), namely a first and a second longitudinal edge (28), and two transverse edges (24, 24'), namely a proximal transverse edge (24') and a distal transverse edge (24), and in the process the leg region forms a respective proximal corner (34') where the proximal transverse edge (24') and the respective longitudinal edge (28) meet and has a proximal corner region (34) and the leg region forms a distal corner (36') where the distal transverse edge (24) and the respective longitudinal edge (28) meet and has a distal corner region (36). The leg region (16) has a transverse extension in a transverse direction which is transverse to the longitudinal central axis (32), and the upper region (13) has a transverse extension in the transverse direction. The transverse extension of the leg region (16) is greater than the transverse extension of the upper region (13) at the transition (19) between the upper region and the proximal transverse edge (24') of the leg region and extends beyond same, preferably on both sides. The invention also relates to a folding method.

Description

[0001] Title: Folded surgical drape, especially hip surgical drape

[0002] Description

[0003] The invention relates to a folded surgical drape, in particular a hip surgical drape comprising an upper region and a leg region, wherein the upper region in particular has an anesthesia region that can be arranged on the head side and a central region closest to the leg region, wherein the surgical drape has a longitudinal central axis extending from the upper region, in particular from the anesthesia region via the central region, to the leg region, defining a longitudinal direction, as well as a proximal surface facing a patient and a distal surface facing away from the patient, and wherein the leg region has two longitudinal edges, namely a first and a second longitudinal edge, and two transverse edges, namely a proximal transverse edge and a distal transverse edge,and in this case, when the proximal transverse edge and the respective longitudinal edge meet, each forming a proximal corner and having a proximal corner region, and in this case, when the distal transverse edge and the respective longitudinal edge meet, each forming a distal corner and having a distal corner region, and wherein the leg region has a transverse extension in a transverse direction transverse to the longitudinal central axis and the upper region has a transverse extension in the transverse direction, wherein in the transition of the upper region at the proximal transverse edge of the leg region, the transverse extension of the leg region is greater than the transverse extension of the upper region and extends beyond it, preferably on both sides.

[0004] The upper region preferably comprises two regions, namely a central region and an anesthesia region. The central region is arranged between the leg region and the anesthesia region and in particular adjoins the proximal transverse edge of the leg region. Just like the leg region, the central region and the anesthesia region have longitudinal edges and transverse edges, although distal and proximal transverse edges are also provided here and the name of the leg region is retained, i.e. the transverse edge closer to the leg region is the distal one and the other is the proximal one, which points more towards the patient's head. In the same way, the regions also have corners and corner regions.

[0005] The transition between the upper area and the leg area is either an actually recognizable transition, e.g. because different materials have been used or folds have been introduced into an area, or because a separation is recognizable, particularly visually recognizable, due to a connecting point or line because the leg area and the upper area consist of different pieces of fabric. If the two areas are connected to one another in one piece, the transition results as an imaginary connecting line, which is formed by extending the proximal transverse edge of the leg area starting from the parts projecting beyond the upper area.

[0006] The upper region, in particular the anesthesia region and the middle region, and the leg region can each be formed from separate components and connected to one another via joining regions, in particular along the respective transverse edges of the components. In the design of interconnected individual components, the function assigned to the region when using the surgical drape, for example the selection of materials, can advantageously be taken into account. Alternatively, the upper region and the leg region can be connected to one another in one piece, or in particular in the upper region the anesthesia region and the middle region, or for example the middle region and the leg region, or all regions can also be connected to one another in one piece.

[0007] It is known in the art that surgical drapes, particularly for orthopedic operations on the hip, have essential regions, namely an upper region, which preferably has an anesthesia region, a middle region, and a leg region. The anesthesia region serves in particular to shield the head and parts of the upper body of the patient and to enable an anesthesiologist to carry out his work after suspending part of the anesthesia region in a vertical plane behind this wall-like shield as a sterile barrier to the operating field. The middle region is provided to ensure a transition from the anesthesia region to the leg area and usually has an incision area, i.e. the actual operating area. The leg area serves to completely cover a patient to be operated on and in particular to maintain the sterility of the operating area.

[0008] During operations, the operating table serves as a support area for the patient. It is also common practice to provide holding elements for surgical drapes on or around this support area. On operating tables, particularly for hip operations, it is known to attach a holder for the surgical drape in the form of a so-called "frame" along the edges of the operating table, preferably in the form of a U-shaped rod that extends around the end of the operating table assigned to the legs and from there along the two long edges of the operating table, and overall at a distance from the operating table. In this case, the surgical drape, after it has been laid over the patient, can overhang the outside of the frame and material from the surgical drape can be introduced into the area or gap between the frame and the operating table and draped there.In particular, the surgical drape hangs in an arc in the area between the frame and the operating table, providing additional material (material reserve) and a secure fit for the surgical drape on the patient, the operating table, and the surgical field. This offers the advantage of ensuring sufficient draping material is available to cover the patient safely, particularly when their legs are moved into different positions during the operation. The frame is parallel to the horizontal plane of the

[0009] operating table and is designed as a rod-shaped holder along the long sides and the lower end, i.e. the foot end of the operating table.

[0010] Surgical drapes of this type are used primarily for hip operations, particularly for anterior or lateral hip arthroplasty. The drape can also be used for operations in the thigh area.

[0011] In particular, the upper region, and in particular the middle region, is intended to function as the actual operating area. If a middle region is provided, this also serves the function of connecting the anesthesia area and the leg area. In particular, the middle region then has a transverse extension that corresponds to the transverse extension of the anesthesia area. Alternatively, the middle region can have a transverse extension that is shorter than the transverse extension of the anesthesia area, wherein further preferably the anesthesia area has a smaller transverse extension than the leg area.

[0012] The actual surgical area is preferably formed by an incision area, designed in the form of an opening or a window in the drape material, which delimits the surgical field. The incision area can preferably have an incision film through which the actual surgical incisions are then made. In particular, however, several, preferably two, spaced-apart incision areas, preferably comprising an incision film, are also conceivable. The incision film can be adhesive in a known manner on its back side facing the patient (proximal surface), wherein this adhesive back is covered by the manufacturer and thus the adhesive side is covered with a release or silicone paper before the surgical drape is applied.This incision area is then applied to a patient for surgery by first removing the release paper and then adhering the incision film to the patient at the site to be operated on. This requires that the corresponding section of the upper area, particularly the middle area, is easily accessible after the surgical drape has been removed from its packaging.

[0013] In the next step, a part of the upper area, in particular the anesthesia area, is attached to a corresponding holder or otherwise, so that this area offers a wall-like shielding of the chest and head area of ​​the patient, behind which the anesthesia team can then work.

[0014] In the final step, the leg area is draped over the patient and the operating table.

[0015] Such drapes are already known in the art, and here too they have an upper region with anesthesia area and a middle region in which the incision area is provided, as well as a leg region which extends transversely over the middle region and the anesthesia area in order to be draped in the gap between the side edges of the operating table and the frame, which lies parallel to the plane of the operating table. A key point with such surgical drapes is how they can be spread over the patient. For this, it is crucial how the drapes are prepared and in what condition they are stored or prepared. Such surgical drapes are folded for storage and preparation.The folding should be done in such a way that such a sheet can be spread over the patient with the least possible personnel effort and without compromising sterility, whereby an incision area can be defined on the patient, the anaesthesia area shields the anaesthesia team from the surgical team and the leg area is spread over the patient's limbs.

[0016] The object of the invention is to propose an alternative, improved folded surgical drape, so that an improved, simpler folded surgical drape is provided which can be placed on a patient and an operating table with less personnel effort, as well as a corresponding method for folding this.

[0017] The object is achieved by a surgical drape according to claim 1 and a method according to claim 32. Further embodiments of the invention are set forth in the subclaims.

[0018] Such a folded surgical drape, in particular a hip surgical drape comprising an upper region and a leg region, wherein the upper region in particular has an anesthesia region which can be arranged on the head side and a central region closest to the leg region, wherein the surgical drape has a longitudinal central axis extending from the upper region, in particular from the anesthesia region via the central region, to the leg region, defining a longitudinal direction, as well as a proximal surface facing a patient and a distal surface facing away from the patient, and wherein the leg region has two longitudinal edges, namely a first and a second longitudinal edge, and two transverse edges, namely a proximal transverse edge and a distal transverse edge,and in this case, when the proximal transverse edge and the respective longitudinal edge meet, each forming a proximal corner and having a proximal corner region, and in this case, when the distal transverse edge and the respective longitudinal edge meet, each forming a distal corner and having a distal corner region, and wherein the leg region has a transverse extension in a transverse direction transverse to the longitudinal central axis and the upper region has a transverse extension in the transverse direction, wherein in the transition of the upper region at the proximal transverse edge of the leg region, the transverse extension of the leg region is greater than the transverse extension of the upper region and extends beyond it, preferably on both sides.

[0019] The provision is that the surgical drape, after folding the leg area around at least one, preferably two or more fold lines arranged on either side of the longitudinal central axis and running diagonally in the direction of the longitudinal central axis, with the formation of contour-defining fold edges on the edges, has an intermediate fold configuration in the leg area with a shape that tapers towards the distal transverse edge. This tapered shape in the intermediate fold configuration makes it easier for the staff preparing for an operation to drape and handle, since after unfolding the drape, for example,in a longitudinal direction, i.e. from proximal to distal or vice versa, in the leg area in the intermediate folding configuration it is not fully unfolded and thus enables draping initially in the foot area, i.e. at the distal end of the leg area and the upper area, without too much material in the leg area having to be handled transversely at the same time. When unfolding, this intermediate folding configuration is particularly present as soon as the upper area, in particular the anesthesia area and middle area, and the leg area are fully unfolded longitudinally and only one unfolding in the transverse direction needs to be carried out and then the leg area has to be draped over the frame of the operating table.Due to this intermediate folding configuration tapering towards the distal transverse edge, the leg area, in particular the distal corners and corner areas, are protected until they are fully unfolded as intended by the operating room staff in order to maintain sterility, in particular against spontaneous unfolding.

[0020] It is particularly preferred if the leg area of ​​the surgical drape extends equally on both sides, i.e. symmetrically, beyond the upper area.

[0021] It is particularly preferred if the respective folds are symmetrical on both sides of the longitudinal center axis. However, different folding configurations on both sides of the longitudinal center axis are also conceivable.

[0022] If the upper region comprises an anesthesia region and a central region, these are preferably of equal width, i.e., they have the same transverse extension. However, they can also have different transverse extensions. Similarly, the upper region can have the same width (transverse extension) across its entire longitudinal extension, or it can vary in this respect.

[0023] A central area and a designated anesthesia area can be provided as one piece or with a clearly recognizable separation, e.g. by provided folds or different materials or from two sections of the same material.

[0024] When referring to a peripheral, contour-defining fold, this refers to the fold created by folding along a fold line and thus representing the outer contour of the intermediate fold configuration. Additional fold edges can be formed along other fold lines.

[0025] It is advantageously provided that the intermediate folding configuration of the leg region at the distal transverse edge has a transverse extension that is shorter than the transverse extension of the upper region at the transition to the leg region at the proximal transverse edge of the leg region. In this way, the advantages of the tapered shape are further enhanced.

[0026] It is further preferably provided that the at least one fold line arranged on both sides of the longitudinal center axis, running obliquely in the direction of the longitudinal center axis, which forms a peripheral, contouring fold edge delimiting the tapered shape of the intermediate fold configuration, intersects the distal transverse edge at a point which, when the distal transverse edge on both sides of the longitudinal center axis is divided into three equal partial lengths, lies at most within a middle partial length between the longitudinal center axis and the respective longitudinal edge of the leg region, preferably within an inner partial length closest to the longitudinal center axis. This also makes it possible to further enhance the above-mentioned advantages.It is possible that more than one fold line is provided, whereby one of the fold lines usually forms the marginal, contour-giving fold edge by folding around this fold line, which limits the intermediate fold configuration and forms its contour.

[0027] It can further be provided that the leg region is folded in the intermediate folding configuration such that, in the intermediate folding configuration, the proximal corners and the proximal corner regions are arranged on the distal surface in the direction of the longitudinal central axis and within the peripheral, contour-defining folding edges arranged on both sides of the longitudinal central axis, running obliquely in the direction of the longitudinal central axis and delimiting the intermediate folding configuration. In this way, the proximal corners can be positioned in a clearly visible manner and can be easily located during unfolding in order to then grasp them and fully unfold the surgical drape.

[0028] Preferably, in the intermediate folding configuration, the proximal corners and proximal corner regions are not covered by further sections of the leg region folded over them.

[0029] This also contributes to the aforementioned advantage of good visibility and easy location of the proximal corners for unfolding the surgical drape or the leg area. Sections are understood to be those areas of the surgical drape, particularly the leg area, that lie on either side of a fold line and are separated by it. The sections are then at least partially placed on top of one another when folded along the fold line, forming a folded edge.

[0030] In particular, it is intended that the proximal corners and / or the proximal corner areas are used to form

[0031] Gripping elements may be present as a singular layer or exclusively folded upon themselves. The provision of a singular layer facilitates both grasping and unfolding.

[0032] In the intermediate folding configuration, it can advantageously be provided that the proximal corners and / or the proximal corner regions are positioned in the transverse direction such that when the upper region is divided in its transverse extent within its longitudinal edges in the transition at the proximal transverse edge to the leg region in the transverse direction into four equally sized partial regions extending in the longitudinal direction, the proximal corners and / or the proximal corner regions are arranged within the partial regions closest to both sides of the longitudinal central axis and / or that in the intermediate folding configuration, the proximal corners and / or the proximal corner regions are positioned in the longitudinal direction such that the proximal corners and / or the proximal corner regions in the leg region extend up to at most within a quarter closest to the upper region in the longitudinal direction, in particular the closest fifth.in particular the nearest sixth of a longitudinal extension of the leg region or in the upper region up to a maximum of a third, in particular the nearest quarter, in particular the nearest fifth, in particular the nearest sixth of a longitudinal extension of the upper region closest to the leg region in the longitudinal direction. This arrangement makes it particularly easy to locate the proximal corners, in particular as gripping elements, during unfolding.

[0033] If the upper region comprises a middle region which is not otherwise clearly distinguishable from an anesthesia region in the upper region, e.g. because the two regions are formed from two different components or some other type of boundary is provided between the middle region and the anesthesia region, it can be provided that at least the fifth closest to the leg region in the longitudinal direction, in particular the closest quarter, in particular the closest third and in particular at most the closest half of the upper region comprises, in particular is formed thereby.If the middle area stands out noticeably, be it because two pieces of cloth are connected to each other or different materials have been used or folds are provided in one of the areas as an additional material reserve, so that a visual and / or haptic boundary is provided between the middle area and the anaesthesia area in the upper area, the middle area is thereby demarcated from an anaesthesia area or within the upper area.

[0034] The upper region, preferably the middle region, preferably has at least one, preferably at least two incision regions, in particular two incision regions. The incision region is the actual surgical region and can have at least one incision film through which the actual surgical incisions are then made. However, a plurality of spaced-apart incision regions are also conceivable. The incision film can be adhesive on the back in a known manner, and before the surgical drape is applied, the adhesive side can be covered with a release or silicone paper. This region is then preferably applied first when applying it to a patient to be operated on, by removing the release paper and sticking the incision film to the patient at the site to be operated on.For this purpose, it is advantageous if the corresponding section of the upper area, in particular the middle area, is easily accessible after the surgical drape has been removed from a package.

[0035] In order to make it even easier to locate the proximal corners, which serve in particular as gripping elements, it can be provided that in the intermediate folding configuration the proximal corners and / or the proximal corner regions are located at the level of at least one incision region. The term "at the level of the incision region" means that the proximal corners can be arranged in the incision region or laterally, i.e., transversely, next to the incision region, but are not distal or proximal to it. Because the incision region is arranged on the patient first, the proximal corners are also recognizable first as gripping elements and do not have to be searched for from other parts of the surgical drape.

[0036] Particularly preferred in the intermediate

[0037] The folding configuration does not include any transverse fold lines through at least one incision area, so that the device can be easily applied to the patient and adheres well there. Fold lines can lead to adhesion problems, particularly if an adhesive layer is provided in the incision area.

[0038] With regard to the distal corners, in the intermediate folding configuration of the leg area, the folds can be such that at least one, preferably both, distal corners lie beneath the sections of the leg area folded over them. This prevents the distal corners from being mistakenly grasped as gripping elements or the surgical drape from unfolding unintentionally.

[0039] In the intermediate folding configuration of the leg region, partial folding arrangements can be provided on the distal surface on both sides of the longitudinal central axis, wherein in particular the two partial folding arrangements overlap in the region of the distal transverse edge of the leg region. Partial folding arrangements are understood to be folded sections in which the surgical drape is folded around one or more folding lines, wherein the partial folding arrangements are preferably symmetrical and comprise mirror-symmetrical folding lines with respect to the longitudinal central axis.

[0040] An overlap of the two partial folding arrangements at the distal transverse edge contributes advantageously to stabilization and the prevention of unwanted unfolding.

[0041] According to one embodiment, it can be provided that the leg region is folded in the intermediate folding configuration in such a way that the proximal corners and the respective adjacent proximal corner region are arranged on the distal surface and the proximal corner and the respective adjacent proximal corner region, preferably as a singular layer or folded exclusively onto themselves, project uppermost on the distal surface relative to subsections of the leg region folded underneath.

[0042] According to an alternative embodiment, it can be provided that the leg region is folded in the intermediate folding configuration in such a way that the proximal corners and the respective proximal corner region are arranged on the distal surface and the proximal corners and the respective adjacent proximal corner region, preferably as a singular layer or folded exclusively onto themselves, project at the bottom on the distal surface relative to sections of the leg region folded above them.

[0043] This intermediate folding configuration, and in particular the arrangement of the proximal corner as the bottom or topmost layer, and preferably as a single layer or folded exclusively upon itself, makes it particularly easy to grasp the proximal corners once the surgical drape is in the intermediate folding configuration. This means that once the surgical drape is unfolded to the point where the intermediate folding configuration is achieved, it is easily visible and feasible for the operating room staff, who still have to arrange the leg area, to grasp the proximal corners and unfold the leg area.During unfolding, this intermediate folding configuration is present particularly as soon as the upper area, in particular the anesthesia area and the middle area, and the leg area are unfolded in their full longitudinal extension and only one unfolding in the transverse direction has to be carried out and then the leg area has to be draped over the frame of the operating table.

[0044] In order to make it easier to grasp the proximal corners and to identify them, it can be provided that the lowest layer, which has the proximal corner and the proximal corner region, projects beyond the sections folded over it in such a way that a distance, measured as a distance in the perpendicular from any point of a fold edge of the sections lying over it, which is closest to the longitudinal center axis and is generated by the fold lines, to an opposite edge, is greatest between the fold edge and the proximal corner.

[0045] Furthermore, it can be provided that in the intermediate folding configuration, the proximal corners and the respective proximal corner region are directed toward the longitudinal central axis, with the proximal corners either overlapping or not overlapping. Both variants are conceivable for good handling, with the non-overlapping variant being preferred, since both proximal corners can then be grasped simultaneously.

[0046] To further improve the unfoldability, it can be provided that marking elements are provided in the area of ​​the proximal transverse edge, in particular in the area of ​​the proximal corners of the leg area, wherein in particular the marking elements are visually recognizable on the proximal surface and / or wherein in particular the marking elements are attached to the proximal surface and by folding the leg area the proximal surface of the surgical drape in the proximal corners and corner areas, in particular in the intermediate

[0047] Folding configuration of the leg area, arranged distally and resting on top. This means that when fully unfolded the marking is on the proximal surface. However, due to the folding it is positioned in such a way that in the corresponding step of folding and unfolding the marking element points away from the patient and can be seen by the person handling the surgical drape and recognized as a marking for a gripping area. A representation of a hand, for example, can be used as a marking element. The term “visually recognizable on the proximal surface” should be understood to mean that, for example, if the material is transparent film, the marking elements can also be applied to the distal surface, provided they are recognizable from the proximal surface. The marking elements can be, for example, printed graphic symbols, but they are also conceivable on glued materials or flocking, etc.

[0048] In particular, it can be provided that the upper, in particular the middle region has at least one, preferably at least two incision regions in the surgical drape, and the incision region is preferably covered with an incision film, in particular with an incision film having an adhesive coating on the proximal surface, wherein in particular the proximal corner is arranged or comes to lie by folding in the region of the incision region or closest to the incision region. The region of the incision film, the proximal surface of which is preferably adhesive, is first positioned and fixed on the patient by the surgical staff. Alternatively, it is also possible for the incision region to have no incision film and / or an incision film without an adhesive coating. In this case or also additionally, an adhesive coating can be provided in regions around the incision region on the proximal surface.The adhesive coating on the incision film and / or in the regions surrounding the incision area ensures secure placement of the surgical drape on the patient.

[0049] Starting from this step, the further steps of unfolding both transversely and then longitudinally of the anesthesia area and the leg area are carried out and finally the unfolding and draping of the leg area is carried out, preferably with two people.

[0050] The folded surgical drape according to the invention, in particular a hip surgical drape, can in particular be designed such that the leg region is folded around a first fold line running at an angle oblique to the longitudinal central axis, to form a marginal first partial section lying on the outside of the first fold line and an inner second partial section lying on the inside thereof, with the respective first partial section onto the distal surface of the leg region, so that the leg region folded around the first fold lines tapers from its proximal transverse edge to the distal transverse edge. The angle is particularly dependent on the longitudinal extent and / or transverse extent of the leg region. The angle between the first fold line and the longitudinal central axis or...an axis running parallel to the longitudinal central axis at the intersection with the first fold line at the distal transverse edge is not 45 ° in order to avoid an overlap of the first sections, which would otherwise make an orderly and simple unfolding more difficult.

[0051] Whenever directional designations are used in relation to the drape, they refer to a patient. This means that the proximal direction is directed towards the patient's torso or head, whereas the distal direction is directed towards the patient's feet. When reference is made to proximal and distal surfaces of the surgical drape, the proximal surface is the one facing towards the patient, and the distal surface is the one facing away from the patient.

[0052] The longitudinal direction is understood to be the direction which extends from the upper region, in particular from the anaesthesia region, through the middle region to the leg region, the transverse direction being the direction perpendicular thereto.

[0053] The designation "inside" and "outside" with regard to fold lines refers to the transverse direction, i.e. whether a section is closer, correspondingly inside, to the longitudinal center axis or further away from it in relation to a fold line and thus outside.

[0054] The terms "top" and "bottom" are used analogously to "distal" and "proximal" in relation to the patient's body. They also refer to the surgical drape, indicating its position on the operating table. In this case, the underside of the surgical drape is the side closest to the operating table, which faces downwards when in use. The top side corresponds to the distal surface of the surgical drape, and "top" refers to the position on the side of the drape facing away from the patient.

[0055] Preferably, it can be provided that the first fold line has its exit at the proximal transverse edge, in the area between the proximal corners and the transition from the leg area to the upper area, wherein in particular the respective first fold line intersects the distal transverse edge at a point which, when the distal transverse edge is divided on both sides of the longitudinal center axis into three equal partial lengths, lies within a middle partial length between the longitudinal center axis and the respective longitudinal edge of the leg area and / or wherein preferably the respective first fold line intersects the distal transverse edge at a point which, starting from the longitudinal center axis, lies within a distance to an intersection point of an imaginary line continuing in the longitudinal direction from the longitudinal edges of the upper area in the transition to the leg area and the distal transverse edge and / or wherein the respective first fold line intersects the distal transverse edge at a point,which, starting from the longitudinal central axis, lies within a distance to an intersection point of an imaginary line extending longitudinally from the longitudinal edges of the upper region at its head-side end, in particular the anaesthesia region, and the distal transverse edge.

[0056] In a second folding step, according to a first alternative, the surgical drape can be designed such that the first partial sections of the leg region folded inwards around the first fold lines are each folded outwards around a second fold line which runs starting from the distal transverse edge to the proximal transverse edge and which preferably runs parallel to the longitudinal edge or at an angle of ± 10 ° thereto, so that the proximal corners project outwards beyond the first fold lines.

[0057] According to a variation of the above folding steps, the first folding step and the second folding step can also take place in reverse order.

[0058] In an alternative second folding step it can be provided that the first partial sections of the leg region folded inwards around first fold lines are each folded outwards around a second fold line which starts from the distal transverse edge and runs to the respective longitudinal edge below the proximal corner and preferably runs parallel to the first fold line or with a deviation of ± 10 ° to the first fold line, and the proximal corners and corner regions are each folded outwards over the first fold line around a third fold line which starts from the proximal transverse edge and runs towards the second fold line and intersects it, so that the proximal corners project outwards over the first fold lines. If the alternative second fold is selected, the first fold line can start further outwards in the direction of the proximal corner on the proximal transverse edge of the leg region than in the first alternative / variant.

[0059] According to a third alternative, it can be provided that the first fold line has its output at the respective longitudinal edge of the leg region, preferably in the region of the upper half of the longitudinal edges of the leg region, in particular in the upper third and further in particular in the upper quarter of the longitudinal edges of the leg region, wherein in particular the respective first fold line intersects the distal transverse edge at a point which, when the distal transverse edge is divided on both sides of the longitudinal center axis into three equal partial lengths, lies within a middle partial length between the longitudinal center axis and the respective longitudinal edge of the leg region and / or wherein preferably the respective first fold line intersects the distal transverse edge at a point,which, starting from the longitudinal central axis, lies within a distance to an intersection point of an imaginary line continuing in the longitudinal direction from the longitudinal edges of the upper region in the transition to the leg region and the distal transverse edge and / or wherein the respective first fold line intersects the distal transverse edge at a point which, starting from the longitudinal central axis, lies within a distance to an intersection point of an imaginary line continuing in the longitudinal direction from the longitudinal edges of the upper region at its head-side end, in particular the anaesthesia region, and the distal transverse edge.

[0060] In a further folding step according to both the first and the second alternative as well as the third alternative, it can be provided that the folding edges of the leg region formed by the first folding lines and the inner second partial section with the folded first partial section lying thereon, and in particular also longitudinal edges of the middle region on both sides of the longitudinal central axis, are each folded around a fourth folding line in the direction of the longitudinal central axis onto the distal surface to form a partial folding arrangement on both sides of the longitudinal central axis into the intermediate folding arrangement, wherein the fourth folding line runs obliquely at an angle in the direction of the longitudinal central axis, so that the leg region has a trapezoidal or triangular shape tapering towards the distal end and in particular the upper region, in particular in its middle region, also has a trapezoidal shape tapering towards the distal end, wherein in particular the fourth folding line forms the edge-side,form the contouring fold edges of the intermediate folding configuration. The fold edges formed by the first fold line are not always, and are not preferred, the marginal, contouring fold edges.

[0061] Particularly in the area of ​​the distal transverse border of the leg region, the two partial folding arrangements of the intermediate folding arrangement of the leg region can overlap.

[0062] Preferably, the angle of the fourth fold line to the longitudinal center axis or to an axis running parallel to the longitudinal center axis at the intersection point with the first fold line at the distal transverse edge is less than 45°, in particular less than 30°, but in particular greater than 10°.

[0063] As the next folding configuration after the intermediate folding configuration, which can be provided in one of the alternatives for folding the leg region, the leg region can be folded in the intermediate folding configuration tapering towards the distal transverse edge, starting from the distal transverse edge of the leg region, around fifth folding lines running in the transverse direction, preferably in an accordion-like manner, wherein a distance in the longitudinal direction between the fifth folding lines is the same or a distance in the longitudinal direction between the fifth folding lines increases starting from the distal transverse edge in the direction of the proximal transverse edge and / or wherein in particular an area lying inside the distal transverse edge of the leg region is folded proximally around a folding line before the accordion-like folding. Here too, the folding preferably takes place on the distal surface of the surgical drape.

[0064] The upper region of the incision area, particularly the central region, preferably remains unfolded and particularly free of transverse fold lines, and the last of the fifth fold lines extends such that the leg region is folded onto the upper region, particularly the central region. In this way, the incision area can remain at its full size for primary application.

[0065] In addition to the leg region, the upper region, in particular the anesthesia region, can also be folded starting from its proximal transverse edge in the longitudinal direction around sixth fold lines running in the transverse direction, preferably in an accordion-like manner, preferably up to the incision region and preferably without folding the incision region around a sixth fold line, wherein in particular the distance of the sixth fold lines from proximal to distal is the same or in particular a distance in the longitudinal direction between the sixth fold lines increases starting from the proximal transverse edge of the upper region in the direction of the leg region.

[0066] After the leg region and the anesthesia region have been folded, preferably in an accordion-like manner, it is preferably provided that the leg region, folded preferably in an accordion-like manner, and the upper region, folded preferably in an accordion-like manner, of which in particular the anesthesia region, come to lie on one another and in particular on the middle region, and are placed on one another in such a way that the folded upper region, in particular the anesthesia region comes to lie on the leg region folded starting from the distal transverse edge, preferably on the distal transverse edge of the leg region folded in on itself. It is preferred if a lowermost part of the upper region, in particular the middle region, is retained with at least one incision region without folding lines, at least folding lines running in the transverse direction.

[0067] It can further be provided that the leg region, which is preferably folded in an accordion-like manner and is placed on top of one another, and the upper region, which is preferably folded in an accordion-like manner, are folded from both long sides, in particular multiple times, around seventh fold lines running in the longitudinal direction. This advantageously achieves the last and final folding configuration, in particular a book-like configuration, in which the surgical drape is then preferably packaged, stored and also sterilized, and in which it is configured such that when the surgical drape is removed from packaging or otherwise grasped for use, it can be easily placed on the patient, and as a first step, preferably in the presence of at least one incision area, it can be applied to the patient and fixed there, in particular with an adhesive. In this case, seventh fold lines preferably do not run through the at least one incision area.If two incision areas are provided, it can run between them and laterally therefrom. Furthermore, it is preferably provided that in the leg area, preferably on the distal surface, on both sides and preferably parallel to the longitudinal central axis, and at a distance from the first and second longitudinal edges, strip-like flexible marking strips and / or reinforcement strips, preferably made of nonwoven material or of nonwoven / film laminate, are provided, which are spaced in particular from the distal transverse edge and / or the proximal transverse edge of the leg area.

[0068] These marking and reinforcement strips are then preferably placed on the frame and serve to mark the draping but also to reinforce it if a clip is provided to secure the surgical drape to the frame. The marking strips preferably have a width in the transverse direction of 2 to 20 cm, more preferably 2 to 15 cm, and more preferably 2 to 12 cm.

[0069] The arrangement of the marking and / or reinforcement strip at a distance from the proximal transverse edge is advantageous in order to avoid resting on the frame and possibly fixing it thereto in the area of ​​the distance up to the proximal transverse edge, and in the use of the surgical drape thus to keep sufficient unfixed material of the leg area available for a tension-free transition between the leg area and the corresponding part of the upper area, in particular the middle area, intended for fixing to the patient.

[0070] In order to achieve better drapability and, in particular, to indicate how far the surgical drape should be inserted into the gap between the frame and the table, it is particularly provided that a closing element made of nonwoven material or nonwoven / film laminate, preferably extending to the distal transverse edge, is provided in the region of the distal transverse edge of the leg region. The connecting element can have a longitudinal extent of at most one third, in particular at most one quarter, at most one fifth, and preferably at least one sixth of the longitudinal extent of the leg region.

[0071] In addition to the surgical drape, the invention also relates to a method for folding a surgical drape, in particular a hip QP drape, comprising an upper region and a leg region, wherein the upper region in particular has an anesthesia region which can be arranged on the head side and a central region closest to the leg region, wherein the surgical drape has a longitudinal central axis which runs from the upper region, in particular from the anesthesia region via the central region, to the leg region and defines a longitudinal direction, as well as a proximal surface facing a patient and a distal surface facing away from the patient, and wherein the leg region has two longitudinal edges, namely a first and a second longitudinal edge, and two transverse edges, namely a proximal transverse edge and a distal transverse edge,and in this case, when the proximal transverse edge and the respective longitudinal edge meet, each forming a proximal corner and having a proximal corner region, and in this case, when the distal transverse edge and the respective longitudinal edge meet, each forming a distal corner and having a distal corner region, and wherein the leg region has a transverse extension in a transverse direction transverse to the longitudinal central axis and the upper region has a transverse extension in the transverse direction, wherein in the transition of the upper region to the proximal transverse edge of the leg region, the transverse extension of the leg region is greater than the transverse extension of the upper region and extends beyond it, preferably on both sides, wherein the surgical drape, after folding the leg region, around at least one, preferably two or more fold lines arranged on both sides of the longitudinal central axis and running obliquely in the direction of the longitudinal central axis, forming edge-side,contouring fold edges, forming an intermediate folding configuration of the leg region with a shape tapering towards the distal transverse edge, preferably such that the intermediate folding configuration of the leg region at the distal transverse edge has a transverse extension that is shorter than the transverse extension of the upper region in the transition to the leg region at the proximal transverse edge of the leg region.

[0072] To carry out this method step, it can be provided that the leg region is folded around a first fold line running at an angle obliquely to the longitudinal center axis, forming a marginal first partial section lying outside the first fold line and an inner second partial section lying inside thereto, with the respective first partial section onto the distal surface of the leg region, so that the leg region folded around the first fold lines tapers from its proximal transverse edge to the distal transverse edge.

[0073] In particular, it can be provided that the first fold line has its exit at the proximal transverse edge, in the area between the proximal corners and the transition from the leg area to the upper area, wherein in particular the respective first fold line intersects the distal transverse edge at a point which, when the distal transverse edge is divided on both sides of the longitudinal center axis into three equal partial lengths, lies within a middle partial length between the longitudinal center axis and the respective longitudinal edge of the leg area and / or wherein preferably the respective first fold line intersects the distal transverse edge at a point which, starting from the longitudinal center axis, lies within a distance to an intersection point of an imaginary line continuing in the longitudinal direction from the longitudinal edges of the upper area in the transition to the leg area and the distal transverse edge and / or wherein the respective first fold line intersects the distal transverse edge at a point,which, starting from the longitudinal central axis, lies within a distance to an intersection point of an imaginary line extending longitudinally from the longitudinal edges of the upper region at its head-side end, in particular the anaesthesia region, and the distal transverse edge.

[0074] Preferably, it can be provided that the first partial sections of the leg region folded inwards around the first fold lines are folded outwards around a second fold line each, which runs from the distal transverse edge to the proximal transverse edge and preferably runs parallel or at an angle of ± 10 ° to the longitudinal edge, so that the proximal corners project outwards beyond the first fold lines, or that the first partial sections of the leg region folded inwards around the first fold lines are folded outwards around a second fold line each, which runs from the distal transverse edge to the respective longitudinal edge below the proximal corner and preferably runs parallel to the first fold line or with a deviation of ± 10 ° to the first fold line, and the proximal corners and corner regions are each folded around a third fold line,which runs from the proximal transverse edge towards the second fold line and intersects it, are folded outwards over the first fold line so that the proximal corners project outwards over the first fold lines.

[0075] In an alternative variant, it can preferably be provided that the first fold line has its output at the respective longitudinal edge of the leg region, preferably in the region of the upper half of the longitudinal edges of the leg region, in particular in the upper third and further in particular in the upper quarter of the longitudinal edges of the leg region, wherein in particular the respective first fold line intersects the distal transverse edge at a point which, when the distal transverse edge is divided on both sides of the longitudinal center axis into three equal partial lengths, lies within a middle partial length between the longitudinal center axis and the respective longitudinal edge of the leg region and / or wherein preferably the respective first fold line intersects the distal transverse edge at a point,which, starting from the longitudinal central axis, lies within a distance to an intersection point of an imaginary line extending longitudinally from the longitudinal edges of the upper region in the transition to the leg region and the distal transverse edge and / or wherein the respective first fold line intersects the distal transverse edge at a point which, starting from the longitudinal central axis, lies within a distance to an intersection point of an imaginary line extending longitudinally from the longitudinal edges of the upper region at its head-side end, in particular of the anesthesia region, and the distal transverse edge. As a further folding step of the method, the folding edges of the leg region formed by the first folding lines and the inner second sub-section with the folded first sub-section resting thereon, and in particular also the longitudinal edges of the middle region on both sides of the longitudinal central axis,are each folded around a fourth fold line in the direction of the longitudinal central axis onto the distal surface to form a partial fold arrangement on both sides of the longitudinal central axis into the intermediate fold arrangement, wherein the fourth fold line runs obliquely at an angle in the direction of the longitudinal central axis, so that the leg region has a trapezoidal or triangular shape tapering towards the distal end and in particular the upper region, in particular in its central region, also has a trapezoidal shape tapering towards the distal end, wherein in particular the fourth fold lines form the peripheral, contour-defining fold edges of the intermediate fold configuration, wherein in particular in the region of the distal transverse edge of the leg region, the two partial fold arrangements of the intermediate fold arrangement of the leg region overlap.

[0076] As a next folding step, it is then provided in particular that the leg region is folded in the intermediate folding configuration tapering towards the distal transverse edge, starting from the distal transverse edge of the leg region, around fifth folding lines running in the transverse direction, preferably in an accordion-like manner, wherein a distance in the longitudinal direction between the fifth folding lines is the same or a distance in the longitudinal direction between the fifth folding lines increases starting from the distal transverse edge in the direction of the proximal transverse edge and / or wherein in particular an area lying inside the distal transverse edge of the leg region is folded proximally around itself around a folding line before the accordion-like folding.

[0077] In a preferred further folding step, it can be provided that the upper region, in particular the anesthesia region, is folded starting from its proximal transverse edge in the longitudinal direction around sixth fold lines running in the transverse direction, preferably in an accordion-like manner, preferably up to the incision region and preferably without folding the incision region around a sixth fold line, wherein in particular the distance of the sixth fold lines from proximal to distal is the same or in particular a distance in the longitudinal direction between the sixth fold lines increases starting from the proximal transverse edge of the upper region in the direction of the leg region.

[0078] In a subsequent folding step, it is provided that the leg region, which is preferably folded in an accordion-like manner, and the upper region, which is preferably folded in an accordion-like manner, of which in particular the anesthesia region, come to lie on one another and in particular on the middle region, and are placed on one another in such a way that the folded upper region, in particular the anesthesia region, comes to lie on the leg region folded starting from the distal transverse edge, preferably on the distal transverse edge of the leg region which is folded upon itself.

[0079] A further method step provides that the leg region, which is preferably folded in an accordion-like manner and is placed on top of one another, and the upper region, which is preferably folded in an accordion-like manner, are folded from both long sides, in particular several times around seventh folding lines running in the longitudinal direction.

[0080] According to the invention, there is provided a method for folding a surgical drape, in particular a hip surgical drape, having one or more of the features disclosed for the surgical drape.

[0081] According to the invention, there is further provided a surgical drape, in particular a hip surgical drape, folded according to the method according to the invention, as well as a method for unfolding, in which the folding steps of the method are carried out essentially in reverse order and in this first step, preferably the at least one incision area is placed on a patient and preferably fixed.

[0082] The surgical drape can be made of nonwoven materials or nonwoven-film laminates, as well as films or film laminates. Films are particularly common in the leg area, with the lateral marking strips and / or reinforcement strips, which mark the position of the surgical drape on the operating table frame or have other marking functions, preferably made of nonwoven material or nonwoven-film laminate. The end element can be wider than the marking strips and can, in particular, be several centimeters to decimetres wide.

[0083] In the upper area, especially in the middle area and the anesthesia area, nonwoven film laminates are preferably provided, which can be particularly well adjusted due to their haptic properties, but also with regard to the properties of preventing fluid penetration.

[0084] In the upper and, if provided, in the central region, there is preferably at least one incision area, wherein the incision film, preferably provided in the incision area, is preferably adhesive on the back and covered with a release paper on its adhesive side before use, and is preferably transparent or at least translucent. As already explained, the surgical drape is preferably placed with the incision area on the area to be operated on and is preferably fixed there with adhesive.

[0085] The arrangement of film material in the leg area, provided it is transparent, also offers the advantage of allowing visual inspection of the positioning of the legs of a person to be operated on.

[0086] For better drapability and attachment to an operating table, whereby in particular the upper area, in particular the anesthesia area, can be arranged vertically during the operation in order to enable a wall-like covering of the head or upper body area of ​​the patient, material folds can be provided which are provided in the conventional way both in the leg area, here in particular along or in the area of ​​the longitudinal central axis. In this case the sheet also falls particularly well in the area between the legs. But folds can also be provided in the upper area, in particular in an anesthesia area, and here in particular in the area of ​​the lateral longitudinal edges and here preferably at the distal end of the anesthesia area, i.e. in the connection area to the middle area.

[0087] The importance of folding the surgical drape for handling becomes clear when you consider its dimensions. The leg area has a transverse width of preferably between 400 and 500 cm, whereas the total length of the surgical drape comprising the leg area, upper area (middle area and anesthesia area) is preferably between 500 and 550 cm. The transverse width of the upper area (middle and anesthesia area) is preferably between 250 and 350 cm. The transverse extent of the upper area (middle area and anesthesia area) is preferably the same over the entire longitudinal extent.

[0088] The leg area preferably extends between 250 and 350 cm in the longitudinal direction. The optional anesthesia area extends between 200 and 250 cm in the longitudinal direction.

[0089] The sheer size of the surgical drape, which must be handled sterilely in an operating room, clearly demonstrates the importance of folding and, consequently, the correct unfolding steps. This allows the personnel otherwise required to unfold conventional surgical drapes to be saved or used for other tasks.

[0090] The marking strips or the end element on the surgical drape, preferably made of nonwoven material or nonwoven film laminate in the leg area, serve on the one hand to visually check that the surgical drape is correctly positioned, but also offer mechanical protection, if, for example, a fixing clip is provided to fix the surgical drape to the frame.

[0091] The surgical drape is then unfolded essentially in the reverse order to the folding. Firstly, the surgical drape is taken out of its packaging and in the first step the outer release paper covering the preferably existing adhesive coating of the incision area and / or incision film is pulled off and the surgical drape is secured to the incision area on the patient. The drape is secured to the area to be operated on, with two people standing to the right and left of the patient. The drape is then unfolded in a transverse direction, whereupon the upper area, in particular the anesthesia area, is first unfolded in an accordion-like fold and the anesthesia area is secured to corresponding holders so that a wall-like structure is formed.

[0092] In the next step, the preferably accordion-like fold of the leg area is unfolded from proximal to distal until the leg area is unfolded over its entire length. The end of the leg area, preferably with the end element, can then be introduced into the gap between the operating table and the frame, with the end element preferably lying outside the frame. In the next step, the surgical drape is grasped at the proximal corners, with the proximal corners preferably being at the level of the upper area, preferably the middle area, in particular at the level of the incision area, and with the proximal corners preferably being marked accordingly with marking elements, and the surgical drape is unfolded. The material of the leg area of ​​the surgical drape can then be draped by the staff into the gap between the frame and the operating table.In particular, fixation along the marking stripes on the frame is possible using fixation clips. The surgical drape can then be draped as desired to facilitate surgery.

[0093] The folding sequence and the various folding configurations are illustrated below. These are shown below:

[0094] Figure 1 : Top view of a surgical drape in a spread out, unfolded configuration

[0095] Figures 2 to 9: Folding cuts for folding a leg area of ​​the surgical drape according to a first alternative;

[0096] Figures 10 to 19: Folding cuts for folding a leg area of ​​the surgical drape according to a second alternative;

[0097] Figures 20 to 24: Folding cuts for folding a leg area of ​​the surgical drape according to a third alternative;

[0098] Figures 25 to 27: further folding cuts for folding the surgical drape according to the three alternatives; and Figure 28: a plan view of an operating table with a frame in a schematic representation; and

[0099] Figure 29: a sectional view through a surgical drape according to the invention draped on an operating table.

[0100] Figure 1 shows a surgical drape according to the invention, which is provided in its entirety with the reference numeral 10. The surgical drape comprises an upper region 13, which preferably has an anesthesia region 12 and a middle region 14, as well as a leg region 16. The anesthesia region 12 is preferably made from a nonwoven film laminate and, in the conventional manner, has folds 18 in the transition to the middle region 14, which represent an additional material reserve. The middle region 14 and the anesthesia region 12 are made from different pieces of material, so that they are visually demarcated from one another.

[0101] In the central region 14, which is also preferably formed from a nonwoven film laminate, at least one, more preferably two, incision regions 22 are provided as the actual surgical region. The incision region 22 is preferably provided with an incision film 20, preferably with an adhesive side for attachment to the patient. The incision films 20 are protected on the proximal surface with a release paper, i.e., a protective layer that covers the adhesive side, prior to use.The leg region 16 comprises a preferably transparent film material which is preferably provided on its distal transverse edge 24 with a nonwoven material strip or nonwoven film laminate strip as a closing element 26 and has two marking strips and / or reinforcing strips 30 which run in the longitudinal direction 31 and are arranged at a distance from the longitudinal edge 28 of the leg region 16 and which, when attached to an operating table with a frame, preferably lie on the frame and are also made of nonwoven material or nonwoven film laminates. The marking and / or reinforcing strip 30 is preferably also arranged at a distance from the proximal transverse edge 24'.

[0102] In addition, a longitudinal central axis 32 is shown which runs from the leg region 16 to the anesthesia region 12 and through the central region 14. The longitudinal central axis 32 runs in the longitudinal direction 31, the transverse direction being designated by reference numeral 33. The surgical drape 10 comprises longitudinal edges 28 and transverse edges 24 and 24' in the leg region, namely the distal transverse edge 24 and the proximal transverse edge 24', the closing element 26 being provided on the distal transverse edge 24 and the proximal transverse edge 24' being connected to the central region 14. In the region where the transverse edges 24 and 24' and the longitudinal edges 28 of the leg region 16 meet, proximal and distal corners are formed, the proximal corners being designated 34' and the distal corners 36'. These corners 34 ' and 36 ' are located in proximal corner regions 34 and distal corner regions 36 .A marking element 38 is provided in the proximal corner regions 34, which serves to locate the proximal corner region 34 and makes this easier. The marking element 38 is provided on the proximal surface of the surgical drape 10, i.e., on the surface that, during use, faces the patient or is at least visually perceptible from the patient. The marking element 38 serves, in particular, to provide a grasping position for the persons unfolding the surgical drape.

[0103] The leg region 16 has a greater extension in the transverse direction at the transition 19 to the upper region 13 than the upper region 13. This greater extension is formed symmetrically to the longitudinal center axis 32 in the exemplary embodiment.

[0104] In the drawing, we are looking at the distal surface of the surgical drape 10, i.e., the surface of the surgical drape facing away from the patient. The marking element 38 can be designed both haptically and visually, particularly in the form of a depicted hand, to clarify that the drape should be grasped here.

[0105] Figure 2 now shows the first folding lines 40 for a first alternative folding step, which start from the corner created by the meeting of the proximal transverse edge 24 ' with the central region 14, up to a point on the distal transverse edge 24, wherein the folding line runs obliquely towards the longitudinal central axis 32 from the proximal transverse edge 24 ' to the distal transverse edge 24.

[0106] The folding step itself can be seen in Figure 3.

[0107] In all illustrations, in the right

[0108] In the first half of the drawing, the fold lines are shown with the surgical drape flat and spread out, whereas the fold itself is shown in the left half of the drawing. The folds are shown here symmetrically to the longitudinal center axis 32, which is preferred.

[0109] The material of the leg region 16 is folded along the first fold line 40 onto the distal surface of the surgical drape 10, as a result of which the marking elements 38 on the proximal surface become visible. This results in a first partial section 42 and a second partial section 44, with the first partial section 42 coming to lie on the distal surface of the second partial section 44. The marking element 38 in the proximal corner region 34 therefore comes to lie in the central region 14. The second fold line 46 has also already been marked, and a portion of the first partial section 42 is then folded around this fold line in the direction away from the longitudinal central axis 32, as can be seen in the left-hand illustration in Figure 4.

[0110] In principle, it is also possible to swap the folding order, so that first the folding takes place around the second fold line 46 and then the folding takes place around the first fold line 40.

[0111] The first partial section 42 is then folded outward along a second fold line 46, which runs substantially parallel to the longitudinal edge 28 or at an angle of ± 10° thereto and forms a folded edge along the fold line 46. Outward here means away from the longitudinal center axis 32.

[0112] Figure 5 now shows the next folding step, for which a further, fourth fold line 48 is provided. The partial folding configuration located outside this fold line is then folded inward around this further, fourth fold line 48. In this way, as can be seen in Figure 6, the marking elements 38 are again positioned on the proximal surface of the sheet 10 in such a way that they can be seen when viewing the distal surface of the sheet 10.

[0113] Figure 7 shows both sides, i.e. both longitudinal edges, in the folded intermediate folding configuration 52. Here, there is an overlap of the partial folding arrangements on both sides in the region of the longitudinal center line 32 at the lower transverse edge 24, so that the distal corners 36' lie under partial sections of the intermediate folding configuration 52, resulting in a trapezoidal triangular shape of the leg area tapering from the proximal transverse edge 24' to the distal transverse edge 24 as the intermediate folding configuration 52. This intermediate

[0114] The contour of the folding configuration 52 is limited by peripheral, contour-defining folding edges 51, which in the present design are created by folding around the folding line 48.

[0115] In the next folding step, as shown in Figure 8, the leg region 16 is now folded in its intermediate folding configuration 52, preferably in an accordion-like manner, along fifth folding lines 50, the first folding step being a folding of the distal end 53 of the intermediate folding configuration 52 of the leg region 16 around a folding line 50' onto itself.

[0116] Figure 9 shows, in views A and B, the preferred accordion-shaped folding of the leg region 16 in a top view and in section. Here, the folding of the distal end 53 of the leg region 16 around the fold line 50' onto itself can be seen.

[0117] An alternative second folding step configuration of the leg region 16 is now shown in Figures 10 to 19, wherein identical elements are provided with identical reference numerals. The essential difference is that the first fold line 40' does not originate at the transition of the proximal transverse edge 24' into the central region 14, but rather starts further outward in the proximal corner region 34. It then runs diagonally inward to the distal transverse edge 24 in the direction of the longitudinal central axis 32, crossing the longitudinally extending marking strips 30.

[0118] In these figures, the respective folded configuration of the surgical drape 10 is shown in the left drawing and the fold lines in the unfolded configuration are shown in the right drawing.

[0119] A first section 42' is then folded onto the distal surface of the surgical drape 10, forming a folded edge along the first fold line 40'. The marking element 38 is positioned such that it can be seen by a user when viewing the distal surface of the surgical drape 10.

[0120] In a second folding step of the alternative folding, which is illustrated in Figures 12 and 13, the distal corner 36 is folded outward along a second fold line 60, wherein, as can be seen in the right-hand side of Figures 12 and 13, the fold lines 60 and 40' run essentially parallel. The folded configuration is shown in Figure 13.

[0121] The proximal corner region 34 is folded outward along a further third fold line 62, which, as shown in Figure 14, extends diagonally outward from the intersection point of the fold line 40' with the proximal transverse edge 24' of the leg region 16. The folded configuration is shown in the left-hand drawing in Figure 15. The course of the fold lines can again be seen in the right-hand drawing in Figures 14 and 15.

[0122] The entire already folded portion located outside the fourth fold line 48' is then folded over onto the distal surface of the surgical drape 10 around a further fourth fold line 48' shown in Figure 16, which corresponds to the fourth fold line in the first alternative fold according to Figures 2 to 9, so that, as can be seen in Figure 17, the marking element 38 is located in the area of ​​the central region 14 and is visible to a user. The marking element 38 in turn serves as a grip marking for unfolding the surgical drape 10.

[0123] The fold line 48 ' preferably runs obliquely from the proximal corner region of the middle region 14 towards the longitudinal center axis 32 at the distal transverse edge 24 of the leg region 16 and, after folding, forms the peripheral, contouring fold edge 51 of the intermediate folding configuration.

[0124] Figure 18 shows the fully folded intermediate folding configuration 52' of the leg region 16 according to this second folding pattern according to the invention. The subsequent folding of the intermediate folding configuration 52' of the leg region 16 around fold lines 50 and 50', as schematically shown in Figure 19, is carried out as already described in Figure 8 and results in a configuration as shown in Figure 9.

[0125] A further alternative third folding configuration is now shown in Figures 20 to 24. Identical elements are also provided with identical reference numerals. The first fold line 40" originates at the respective longitudinal edge 28 of the leg region 16, with the first fold line 40" preferably beginning in the region of the upper half of the longitudinal edges 28 of the leg region 16. In particular, the beginning is preferably in the upper third. The first fold line 40" ends by intersecting the distal transverse edge 24, with the intersection point lying in the middle partial length when the distal transverse edge 24 is divided into three equal partial lengths on either side of the longitudinal center axis 32.

[0126] The configuration folded around the first fold line 40'', whereby a marginal first partial section 42'' and a second partial section 44'' on the inside thereof are obtained, is shown in Figure 21 in the left drawing representation.

[0127] The fourth fold line 48" is also visible, which corresponds in its course to the fold lines 48 and 48' of the first and second folding variants. The second folding step is shown in Figure 22, as is the fully folded intermediate folding configuration 52" with the contouring fold edge 51 on the edge in Figure 23.

[0128] Here too, the marking elements 38 in the incision area 22 are clearly visible on the distal surface of the surgical drape 10. The particular advantage of the third folding variant is the few folding steps that need to be carried out in order to achieve an intermediate folding configuration 52'', as also shown in Figure 24.

[0129] The leg area 16 is then folded over around fold lines 50 and 50 ', as indicated in Figure 24, as already described for the first variant in Figures 8 and 9.

[0130] For all three folding configurations, as shown in Figures 2 to 9 as well as 10 to 19 and 20 to 24, the upper region, in particular the anesthesia region 12, is then folded, starting from its proximal transverse edge 91, preferably in an accordion shape around sixth fold lines 70 (see Figure 25), wherein the folding around the sixth fold lines 70 preferably extends into the central region 14, without affecting the incision region 22. The sixth fold lines 70 are preferably equidistant. The correspondingly folded configuration is shown in Figure 26 in the illustrations A in plan view and B as a cross-section thereof, wherein the sixth fold lines result from Figure 25.

[0131] The entire configuration is then folded along a further seventh fold line 72, starting from the longitudinal edges, and at the end, as shown in Figure 27, folded together in a book shape, so that the incision area 22 is positioned at the top and bottom so that the corresponding cover or release papers are visible and can be grasped. If only one incision area 22 is provided, the other area is formed by a different material from the central area 14. Figure 28 shows a schematic plan view of an operating table h, as used for hip operations, with a patient support 100 and a so-called frame 102, which is arranged in the horizontal plane of the patient support 100 and is arranged essentially parallel to the sides and the foot section, an area of ​​the operating table in which the patient's limbs come to rest. A gap 104 is formed between the patient support 100 and the frame 102.

[0132] Figure 29 now shows how the surgical drape 10 is inserted into the gap 104 between the frame 102 and the patient support 100 and hangs there in an arcuate shape. The marking strips and / or reinforcement strips 30 rest on the frame 102, and the surgical drape 10 is secured there by means of clamps.

[0133] In the manner described above, a surgical drape 10 folded in a novel manner can be provided, particularly for hip surgeries, which provides improved handling. The unfolding follows the reverse order of the folding.

Claims

Patent claims 1. Folded surgical drape (10), in particular a hip surgical drape comprising an upper region (13) and a leg region (16), wherein the upper region (13) in particular has an anesthesia region (12) which can be arranged on the head side and a central region (14) closest to the leg region, wherein the surgical drape (10) has a longitudinal central axis (32) extending from the upper region (13), in particular from the anesthesia region (12) via the central region (14), to the leg region (16) and defining a longitudinal direction (31), as well as a proximal surface facing a patient and a distal surface facing away from the patient, and wherein the leg region (16) has two longitudinal edges (28), namely a first and a second longitudinal edge (28), as well as two transverse edges (24, 24'), namely a proximal transverse edge (24') and a distal transverse edge (24),and thereby forming a proximal corner (34') when the proximal transverse edge (24') and the respective longitudinal edge (28) meet and having a proximal corner region (34) and thereby forming a distal corner (36') when the distal transverse edge (24) and the respective longitudinal edge (28) meet and having a distal corner region (36), and wherein the leg region (16) has a transverse extension in a transverse direction (33) transverse to the longitudinal central axis (32) and the upper region (13) has a transverse extension in the transverse direction (33), wherein in the transition (19) of the upper region at the proximal transverse edge, (24* ) of the leg area the transverse extension of the Leg region (16) is greater than the transverse extent of the upper region (13) and extends beyond it, preferably on both sides, characterized in that the surgical drape (10), after folding the leg region (16) around at least one, preferably two or more fold lines arranged on both sides of the longitudinal center axis (32) and running obliquely in the direction of the longitudinal center axis (32), with the formation of peripheral, contour-giving fold edges (51), has an intermediate fold configuration (52, 52', 52'') of the leg region (16) with a shape tapering towards the distal transverse edge (24).

2. Folded surgical drape (10) according to claim 1, characterized in that the intermediate folding configuration (52, 52', 52'') of the leg region at the distal transverse edge (24) has a transverse extension which is shorter than the transverse extension of the upper region (13) in the transition (19) to the leg region (16) at the proximal transverse edge (24') of the leg region (16).

3. Folded surgical drape (10) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the at least one fold line (48) arranged on both sides of the longitudinal central axis (32) and extending obliquely in the direction of the longitudinal central axis (32), which forms a peripheral contouring fold edge (51) delimiting the tapered shape of the intermediate fold configuration (52, 52', 52''), intersects the distal transverse edge (24) at a point which, when the distal transverse edge (24) is divided into three equal Partial lengths, at most within a middle partial length between the longitudinal center axis (32) and the respective longitudinal edge (28) of the leg region (16), preferably within an inner partial length closest to the longitudinal center axis.

4. Folded surgical drape (10) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the leg area (16) is folded in the intermediate folding configuration (52, 52', 52'') such that in the intermediate folding configuration the proximal corners (34') and the proximal corner regions (34) are arranged on the distal surface in the direction of the longitudinal central axis (32) and within the peripheral, contour-defining folding edges (51) arranged on both sides of the longitudinal central axis, extending obliquely in the direction of the longitudinal central axis and delimiting the intermediate folding configuration (52, 52', 52'').

5. Folded surgical drape (10) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that in the intermediate folding configuration (52, 52', 52'') the proximal corners (34') and proximal corner regions (34) are not covered by further partial sections of the leg region folded over them.

6. Folded surgical drape (10) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the proximal corners (34') and / or the proximal corner regions (34) for forming gripping elements are present as a singular layer or are exclusively folded upon themselves.

7. Folded surgical drape according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that in the intermediate folding configuration (52, 52', 52'') the proximal corners (34') and / or the proximal corner regions (34) are located in the transverse direction (33) in such a way that when the upper region (13) is divided in its transverse extent within its longitudinal edges in the transition (19) at the proximal transverse edge (24') to the leg region (16) in the transverse direction (33) into four equally sized partial regions extending in the longitudinal direction (31), the proximal corners (34') and / or the proximal corner regions (34) are arranged within the partial regions closest to both sides of the longitudinal central axis (32) and / or that in the intermediate folding configuration (52, 52', 52' ' ) the proximal corners (34' ) and / or the proximal corner regions (34) are positioned in the longitudinal direction (31) such thatthat the proximal corners (34') and / or the proximal corner regions (34) are arranged in the leg region (16) up to a maximum of one quarter, in particular the nearest fifth, in particular the nearest sixth of a longitudinal extension of the leg region (16) closest to the upper region (13) in the longitudinal direction (31), or are arranged in the upper region (13) up to a maximum of one third, in particular the nearest quarter, in particular the nearest fifth, in particular the nearest sixth of a longitudinal extension of the upper region (13) closest to the leg region (16) in the longitudinal direction (31).

8. Folded surgical drape (10) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the middle region (14) comprises at least the fifth, in particular the nearest quarter, in particular the nearest third and in particular at most the nearest half of the upper region (13) closest to the leg region (16) in the longitudinal direction (31), in particular is formed thereby.

9. Folded surgical drape (10) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the upper region (13), preferably the middle region (14), has at least one, preferably at least two incision regions (22).

10. Folded surgical drape (10) according to claim 9, characterized in that in the intermediate Folding configuration (52, 52', 52'') the proximal corners (34') and / or the proximal corner regions (34) come to lie at the level of the at least one incision region (22).

11. Folded surgical drape according to claim 9 or 10, characterized in that in the intermediate Folding configuration (52, 52', 52'') no folding lines running in the transverse direction (33) run through the at least one incision area (22).

12. Folded surgical drape (10) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that in the intermediate folding configuration (52, 52', 52'') of the leg region, the folds are such that at least one, preferably both distal corners (36') come to lie below sections of the leg area folded over them.

13. Folded surgical drape (10) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the intermediate folding configuration (52, 52', 52'') of the leg region has partial folding arrangements on the distal surface on both sides of the longitudinal central axis (32), wherein in particular the two partial folding arrangements overlap in the region of the distal transverse edge (24) of the leg region (16).

14. Folded surgical drape (10) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the leg area (16) is folded in the intermediate folding configuration (52, 52', 52'') such that the proximal corners (34') and the respective adjacent proximal corner region (34) are arranged on the distal surface and the proximal corners (34') and the respective adjacent proximal corner region (34), preferably as a singular layer or folded exclusively onto themselves, projecting uppermost on the distal surface relative to subsections of the leg region (16) folded underneath.

15. Folded surgical drape (10) according to one of claims 1 to 13, characterized in that the leg region (16) in the intermediate folding configuration (52, 52', 52'') is folded such that the proximal corners (34') and the respective proximal corner region (34) are arranged on the distal surface and the proximal corners (34' ) and the respective adjacent proximal corner region (34), preferably as a singular layer or folded exclusively onto itself, thereby protruding at the bottom on the distal surface relative to partial sections of the leg region (16) folded over it.

16. Folded surgical drape (10) according to claim 15, characterized in that the lowermost layer having the proximal corner (34') and the proximal corner region (34) projects beyond the sub-sections folded over it in such a way that a distance, measured as a distance in the perpendicular from any point of a folded edge of the sub-sections lying closest to the longitudinal center axis (32) and generated by the fold lines, of the sub-sections lying over it to an opposite edge, is greatest between the folded edge and the proximal corner (34').

17. Folded surgical drape (10) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that in the intermediate folding configuration (52, 52', 52'') the proximal corners (34') and the respective proximal corner region (34) are directed in the direction of the longitudinal central axis (32) and the proximal corners (34') overlap or do not overlap.

18. Folded surgical drape (10) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the leg area (16) each around a first fold line (40, 40', 40'') running at an angle obliquely to the longitudinal central axis (32), forming a first fold line (40) outer marginal first Partial section (42, 42', 42'') and an inner second partial section (44, 44', 44'') lying inside thereof with the respective first partial section (42, 42', 42'') are folded onto the distal surface of the leg region (16), so that the leg region (16) folded around the first fold lines (40, 40', 40'') tapers from its proximal transverse edge (24') to the distal transverse edge (24).

19. Folded surgical drape (10) according to claim 18, characterized in that the first fold line (40, 40') has its exit at the proximal transverse edge (24'), in the area between the proximal corners (34') and the transition from the leg area (16) to the upper area (13), wherein in particular the respective first fold line (40, 40') intersects the distal transverse edge (24) at a point which, when the distal transverse edge (24) is divided on both sides of the longitudinal center axis (32) into three equal partial lengths, lies within a middle partial length between the longitudinal center axis (32) and the respective longitudinal edge (28) of the leg area (16) and / or wherein preferably the respective first fold line (40, 40') intersects the distal transverse edge (24) at a point,which, starting from the longitudinal central axis (32), lies within a distance to an intersection point of an imaginary line continuing from longitudinal edges of the upper region (13) in the transition to the leg region in the longitudinal direction (31) and the distal transverse edge (24) and / or wherein the respective first fold line (40, 40') intersects the distal transverse edge (24) at a point which, starting from the longitudinal central axis (32), lies within a, Distance to an intersection point of an imaginary line extending from longitudinal edges of the upper region (13) at its head-side end, in particular the anesthesia region (12), in the longitudinal direction (31) and the distal transverse edge (24).

20. Folded surgical drape (10) according to claim 18 or 19, characterized in that the first partial sections (42) of the leg region (16) folded inwards around the first fold lines (40) are each folded outwards around a second fold line (46) which runs starting from the distal transverse edge (24) to the proximal transverse edge (24'), which preferably runs parallel to or at an angle of ± 10° to the longitudinal edge (28), so that the proximal corners (34') project outwards beyond the first fold lines (40).

21. Folded surgical drape (10) according to claim 18 or 19, characterized in that the first partial sections (42') of the leg region (16), which are folded inward about first fold lines (40'), are each folded outward about a second fold line (60) which begins from the distal transverse edge (24) and extends to the respective longitudinal edge (28) below the proximal corner (34'), which preferably runs parallel to the first fold line (40') or with a deviation of ± 10° to the first fold line (40'), and the proximal corners (34') and corner regions (34) are each folded outward over the first fold line (40') about a third fold line (62) which begins from the proximal transverse edge (24') and extends in the direction of the second fold line (60) and intersects it, so that the proximal corners (34' ) project outwards beyond the first fold lines (40' ).

22. Folded surgical drape (10) according to claim 18, characterized in that the first fold line (40") has its output at the respective longitudinal edge (28) of the leg region, preferably in the region of the upper half of the longitudinal edges (28) of the leg region (16), in particular in the upper third and further in particular in the upper quarter of the longitudinal edges (28) of the leg region, wherein in particular the respective first fold line (40") intersects the distal transverse edge (24) at a point which, when the distal transverse edge (24) is divided on both sides of the longitudinal center axis (32) into three equal partial lengths, lies within a middle partial length between the longitudinal center axis (32) and the respective longitudinal edge (28) of the leg region (16) and / or wherein preferably the respective first fold line (40") intersects the distal transverse edge (24) at a point,which, starting from the longitudinal central axis (32), lies within a distance to an intersection point of an imaginary line continuing from the longitudinal edges of the upper region (13) in the transition to the leg region in the longitudinal direction (31) and the distal transverse edge (24) and / or wherein the respective first fold line (40' ') intersects the distal transverse edge (24) at a point which, starting from the longitudinal central axis (32), lies within a distance to an intersection point of an imaginary line continuing from the longitudinal edges of the upper region (13) at its head-side end, in particular of the anesthesia region (12), in the longitudinal direction (31) and the distal transverse edge (24).

23. Folded surgical drape (10) according to one of claims 18 to 22, characterized in that the folded edges of the leg region (16) formed by the first fold lines (40, 40', 40'') and the inner second partial section (44, 44', 44'') with the folded first partial section (42, 42', 42'') lying thereon, and in particular also longitudinal edges of the central region (14) on both sides of the longitudinal central axis (32), are each folded around a fourth fold line (48, 48', 48'') in the direction of the longitudinal central axis (32) onto the distal surface to form a partial fold arrangement on both sides of the longitudinal central axis (32) into the intermediate fold arrangement (52, 52', 52''), wherein the fourth fold line (48, 48', 48'') extends obliquely at an angle in the direction of the longitudinal central axis (32), so that the leg region (16) has a trapezoidal or triangular shape tapering distally and in particular also the upper region (13),in particular in its central region (14) has a trapezoidal shape tapering distally, wherein in particular the fourth fold lines (48, 48', 48'') form the peripheral, contour-giving fold edges (51) of the intermediate fold configuration (52, 52', 52''), wherein in particular in the region of the distal transverse edge (24) of the leg region (16) the two partial fold arrangements of the intermediate fold arrangement (52, 52', 52'') of the leg region (16) overlap.

24. Folded surgical drape (10) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the leg area (16) in the intermediate folding configuration tapering towards the distal transverse edge (52, 52', 52'') starting from the distal transverse edge (24) of the leg region (16) is folded around fifth fold lines (50) running in the transverse direction (33), preferably in an accordion-like manner, wherein a distance in the longitudinal direction between the fifth fold lines (50) is the same or a distance in the longitudinal direction (31) between the fifth fold lines (50) increases starting from the distal transverse edge (24) in the direction of the proximal transverse edge (24') and / or wherein in particular a region (53) lying inside the distal transverse edge (24) of the leg region (16) is folded proximally around a fold line (50') before the accordion-like folding.

25. Folded surgical drape (10) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the upper region (13), in particular the anesthesia region (12), starting from its proximal transverse edge (91) in the longitudinal direction (31) is folded around sixth fold lines (70) running in the transverse direction (33), preferably in an accordion-like manner, preferably up to the incision region (22) and preferably without folding the incision region (22) around a sixth fold line (70), wherein in particular the distance between the sixth fold lines (70) from proximal to distal is the same or in particular a distance in the longitudinal direction (31) between the sixth fold lines (70) increases starting from the proximal transverse edge (91) of the upper region (13) in the direction of the leg region (16).

26. Folded surgical drape (10) according to claim 25 as far as dependent on claim 24, characterized in that the leg region (16), which is preferably folded in an accordion-like manner, and the upper region (13), which is preferably folded in an accordion-like manner, of which in particular the anesthesia region (12), come to lie on one another and in particular on the central region (14), and are placed on one another in such a way that the folded upper region (13), in particular the anesthesia region (12), comes to lie on the leg region folded starting from the distal transverse edge (24), preferably on the distal transverse edge (24) of the leg region (16) which is folded over onto itself.

27. Folded surgical drape (10) according to claim 26, characterized in that the superimposed leg region (16) and the preferably accordion-folded upper region (13) are folded from both longitudinal sides, in particular several times around seventh fold lines (72) running in the longitudinal direction (31).

28. Folded surgical drape (10) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that in the leg area (16), preferably on the distal surface, on both sides and preferably parallel to the longitudinal central axis (32), and at a distance from the first and second longitudinal edge (28), strip-like flexible marking strips (30) and / or reinforcing strips (30), preferably made of nonwoven material or of nonwoven / film laminate, are provided, which are in particular at a distance from the distal transverse edge (24) and / or the proximal transverse edge (24') of the leg region (16).

29. Folded surgical drape (10) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that marking elements (38) are provided in the region of the proximal transverse edge (24'), in particular in the region of the proximal corners (34') of the leg region (16), wherein in particular the marking elements (38) are visually recognizable on the proximal surface and / or wherein in particular the marking elements (38) are applied to the proximal surface and due to the folding of the leg region (16), the proximal surface of the surgical drape (10) in the proximal corners (34') and corner regions (34), in particular in the intermediate folding configuration of the leg region, is arranged distally on top.

30. Folded surgical drape (10) according to one of the preceding claims 9 - 29, characterized in that the incision area (22) is preferably covered with an incision film (20), in particular with an incision film having an adhesive coating on the proximal surface.

31. Folded surgical drape (10) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that in the region of the distal transverse edge (24) of the leg region (16) a closing element (26) made of nonwoven material or nonwoven / film laminate is provided, preferably extending to the distal transverse edge (24).

32. Method for folding a surgical drape (10), in particular a hip surgical drape, comprising an upper region (13) and a leg region (16), wherein the upper region (13) has, in particular, an anesthesia region (12) that can be arranged on the head side and a central region (14) closest to the leg region, wherein the surgical drape (10) has a longitudinal central axis (32) extending from the upper region (13), in particular from the anesthesia region (12) via the central region (14), to the leg region (16) and defining a longitudinal direction (31), as well as a proximal surface facing a patient and a distal surface facing away from the patient, and wherein the leg region (16) has two longitudinal edges (28), namely a first and a second longitudinal edge (28), and two transverse edges (24, 24'), namely a proximal transverse edge (24') and a distal transverse edge (24),and thereby, when the proximal transverse edge (24') and the respective longitudinal edge (28) meet, each forms a proximal corner (34') and has a proximal corner region (34), and thereby, when the distal transverse edge (24) and the respective longitudinal edge (28) meet, each forms a distal corner (36') and has a distal corner region (36), and wherein the leg region (16) has a transverse extension in a transverse direction (33) transverse to the longitudinal central axis (32) and the upper region (13) has a transverse extension in the transverse direction (33), wherein in the transition (19) of the upper region at the proximal transverse edge (24') of the leg region, the transverse extension of the leg region (16) is greater than the transverse extension of the upper region (13) and extends beyond it, preferably on both sides, characterized in that the surgical drape (10) after folding the leg area (16), around at least one, preferably two or more fold lines arranged on either side of the longitudinal center axis (32) and running obliquely in the direction of the longitudinal center axis (32), forming edge-side, contour-giving fold edges (51), an intermediate fold configuration (52, 52', 52'') of the leg region (16) with a shape tapering towards the distal transverse edge (24), preferably in such a way that the intermediate fold configuration (52, 52', 52'') of the leg region has a transverse extension at the distal transverse edge (24) which is shorter than the transverse extension of the upper region (13) in the transition to the leg region (16) at the proximal transverse edge (24') of the leg region (16).

33. Method according to claim 32, characterized in that the leg region (16) is folded around a first fold line (40, 40', 40'') running at an angle obliquely to the longitudinal center axis (32), forming a marginal first partial section (42, 42', 42'') lying outside the first fold line (40, 40', 40'') and an inner second partial section (44, 44', 44'') lying inside the first partial section (42, 42', 42'') onto the distal surface of the leg region (16), so that the leg region (16) folded around the first fold lines (40, 40', 40'') extends from its proximal transverse edge (24') to the distal transverse edge (24) rejuvenated.

34. Method according to claim 33, characterized in that the first fold line (40, 40' ) has its exit at the proximal transverse edge (24' ), in the region between the proximal corners (34' ) and the transition from the leg region (16) to the upper region (13), wherein in particular the respective first fold line (40, 40' ) intersects the distal transverse edge (24) at a point which, when the distal transverse edge (24) is divided on both sides of the longitudinal center axis (32) into three equal partial lengths, lies within a middle partial length between the longitudinal center axis (32) and the respective longitudinal edge (28) of the leg region (16) and / or wherein preferably the respective first fold line (40, 40' ) intersects the distal transverse edge (24) at a point which, starting from the longitudinal center axis (32), lies within a distance to an intersection point of an imaginary line continuing from longitudinal edges of the upper region (13) in the transition to the leg region in the longitudinal direction (31) and the distal transverse edge (24) and / or wherein the respective first fold line (40, 40' ) intersects the distal transverse edge (24) at one point,which, starting from the longitudinal central axis (32), lies within a distance to an intersection point of an imaginary line continuing in the longitudinal direction (31) from longitudinal edges of the upper region (13) at its head-side end, in particular of the anaesthesia region (12), and the distal transverse edge (24).

35. Method according to claim 33 or 34, characterized in that the first partial sections (42) of the leg region (16) folded inwards around the first fold lines (40) are each folded around a second fold line (46) which runs starting from the distal transverse edge (24) to the proximal transverse edge (24'), which preferably runs parallel to or at an angle of ± 10° thereto to the Longitudinal edge (28) extends, are folded outwards so that the proximal corners (34') project outwards beyond the first fold lines (40) or that the first partial sections (42') of the leg region (16) folded inwards around first fold lines (40') are each folded outwards around a second fold line (60) which begins from the distal transverse edge (24) and extends to the respective longitudinal edge (28) below the proximal corner (34'), which preferably runs parallel to the first fold line (40') or with a deviation of ± 10° to the first fold line (40'), and the proximal corners (34') and corner regions (34) are each folded outwards over the first fold line around a third fold line (62) which begins from the proximal transverse edge (24') and extends towards the second fold line (60) and intersects it. (40' ) so that the proximal corners (34' ) project outwards beyond the first fold lines (40' ).

36. Method according to claim 33, characterized in that the first fold line (40") has its output at the respective longitudinal edge (28) of the leg region, preferably in the region of the upper half of the longitudinal edges (28) of the leg region (16), in particular in the upper third and further in particular in the upper quarter of the longitudinal edges (28) of the leg region, wherein in particular the respective first fold line (40") intersects the distal transverse edge (24) at a point which, when the distal transverse edge (24) is divided on both sides of the longitudinal center axis (32) into three equal partial lengths, lies within a middle partial length between the longitudinal center axis (32) and the respective longitudinal edge (28) of the leg region (16). and / or wherein preferably the respective first fold line (40'') intersects the distal transverse edge (24) at a point which, starting from the longitudinal center axis (32), lies within a distance to an intersection point of an imaginary line which continues in the longitudinal direction (31) from longitudinal edges of the upper region (13) in the transition to the leg region and the distal transverse edge (24) and / or wherein the respective first fold line (40'') intersects the distal transverse edge (24) at a point which, starting from the longitudinal center axis (32), lies within a distance to an intersection point of an imaginary line which continues in the longitudinal direction (31) from longitudinal edges of the upper region (13) at its head-side end, in particular of the anesthesia region (12), and the distal transverse edge (24).

37. Method according to claims 33 to 36, characterized in that the folded edges of the leg region (16) formed by the first fold lines (40, 40', 40'') and the inner second partial section (44, 44', 44'') with the folded first partial section (42, 42', 42'') lying thereon, and in particular also longitudinal edges of the central region (14) on both sides of the longitudinal central axis (32), are each folded around a fourth fold line (48, 48', 48'') in the direction of the longitudinal central axis (32) onto the distal surface to form a partial fold arrangement on both sides of the longitudinal central axis (32) into the intermediate fold arrangement (52), wherein the fourth fold line (48, 48', 48'') runs obliquely at an angle in the direction of the longitudinal central axis (32), so that the leg area (16) has a distally tapered Has a trapezoidal or triangular shape and in particular also the upper region (13), in particular in its middle region (14), has a trapezoidal shape tapering towards the distal end, wherein in particular the fourth fold lines (48, 48', 48'') form the marginal, contour-giving fold edges (51) of the intermediate fold configuration (52, 52', 52''), wherein in particular in the region of the distal transverse edge (24) of the leg region (16) the two partial fold arrangements of the intermediate fold arrangement (52, 52', 52'') of the leg region (16) overlap.

38. Method according to claim 37, characterized in that the leg region (16) in the intermediate folding configuration (52, 52', 52'') tapering towards the distal transverse edge is folded, preferably in an accordion-like manner, starting from the distal transverse edge (24) of the leg region (16) around fifth folding lines (50) running in the transverse direction, wherein a distance in the longitudinal direction (31) between the fifth folding lines (50) is the same or a distance in the longitudinal direction (31) between the fifth folding lines (50) increases starting from the distal transverse edge (24) in the direction of the proximal transverse edge (24') and / or wherein in particular a region (53) lying inside the distal transverse edge (24) of the leg region (16) is folded proximally around a folding line (50') before the accordion-like folding.

39. Method according to one of the preceding claims 32 to 38, characterized in that the upper region (13), in particular the anesthesia region (12), starting from its proximal transverse edge (91) in the longitudinal direction in Transverse direction (33) extending sixth fold lines (70), preferably in an accordion-like manner, preferably up to the incision area (22) and preferably without folding the incision area (22) around a sixth fold line (70), wherein in particular the distance of the sixth fold lines (70) from proximal to distal is the same or in particular a distance in the longitudinal direction (31) between the sixth fold lines (70) increases starting from the proximal transverse edge (91) of the upper area (13) in the direction of the leg area (16).

40. Method according to claim 39 as far as dependent on claim 38, characterized in that the leg region (16), which is preferably folded in an accordion-like manner, and the upper region (13), of which in particular the anesthesia region (12), which is preferably folded in an accordion-like manner, come to lie on one another and in particular on the middle region (14), and are placed on one another in such a way that the folded upper region (13), in particular the anesthesia region (12), comes to lie on the leg region folded starting from the distal transverse edge (24), preferably on the distal transverse edge (24) of the leg region (16) which is folded over on itself.

41. Method according to claim 40, characterized in that the leg region (16) placed on top of each other and preferably folded in an accordion-like manner and the upper region (13) folded in an accordion-like manner are folded from both longitudinal sides, in particular several times by seventh folded along fold lines (72) running in the longitudinal direction (31).

42. Method for folding a surgical drape (10), in particular a hip surgical drape according to one of claims 1 - 31.

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