As ostomy appliance

Abstract

An ostomy appliance for receiving and storing waste from a stoma, including: a main body (10) that includes a stoma opening (12) and a waste collecting volume (14), and a first engagement formation (50), a detachable cover member (30), which includes a second engagement formation (70), so that the cover member is connectable via engagement between the first and second engagement formations to the main body and covers a portion of a front of the main body.

Description

[0001] AN OSTOMY APPLIANCE

[0002] FIELD

[0003] Embodiments of the invention relates to an ostomy appliance.

[0004] BACKGROUND

[0005] Ostomy appliances are well known medical devices for users that have a stoma. Generally, the appliance has an opening for the stoma to be received in and an adhesive member that contacts the body and holds the appliance in position. Waste exiting the stoma is collected in a collecting volume, which is formed from two flexible walls connected together. Often the appliance includes an outlet valve, so that a user can empty waste that is collected in the collecting volume without having to remove and dispose of the entire appliance.

[0006] Ostomy appliances often have an integrated cover layer that is permanently attached during manufacture. However, not all users wish to have a cover on their appliance.

[0007] Embodiments of the present invention seek to alleviate one or more problems associated with the prior art.

[0008] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0009] According to a first aspect of the invention we provide an ostomy appliance for receiving and storing waste from a stoma, including: a main body that includes a stoma opening and a waste collecting volume, and a first engagement formation, a detachable cover member, which includes a second engagement formation, so that the cover member is connectable via engagement between the first and second engagement formations to the main body and covers a portion of a front of the main body.

[0010] One of first and second engagement formations may form a receiving formation and the other of the first and second engagement formations may form a projection formation. The projection formation may have an upper attachment zone. The upper attachment zone may extend downwards to a free end, to be received in the receiving formation. The projection formation may include a substantially trapezium shaped portion. The substantially trapezium shaped portion may narrow towards the free end. The upper attachment zone may connect to the cover member. The cover member may have a front side that, in use, faces away from a user and a second side, to which the upper attachment zone connects. The upper attachment zone may extend across a width of the cover member. Optionally, the upper attachment zone may extend upwards to a top of the cover member.

[0011] The receiving formation may provide a pocket that is sized to receive the projection formation. The pocket may have an upper opening to receive the projection formation. Optionally, the pocket may also include a lower opening for allowing caught liquid to drain.

[0012] The receiving formation may include a folded layer at the upper opening. The folded layer may provide a free edge. The free edge may be located inside the pocket. Alternatively, the free edge may be located outside of the pocket and may provide an aid to pull the pocket open. The folded layer may form a tube portion at and across the upper opening.

[0013] The receiving formation may be attached to the main body. The main body may have a non-body side which, in use, faces away from the user, and a body side, which, in use, faces the user. The receiving formation may be attached to the non-body side.

[0014] The first engagement formation may be the receiving formation and the second engagement formation may be the projection formation.

[0015] The main body may include an outlet portion that has a closed state, in which waste is held in the waste collecting volume, and an open state, in which waste is able to pass out of the outlet portion. The main body may include an adhesive member for attachment to the user’s body. The main body may include a connection mechanism for connecting to a separate adhesive member.

[0016] The cover member may include a loop portion. The loop portion may, when the cover member is connected to the main body, extend around a lower position of the main body. The cover member may include a securing region for direct connection to an adhesive member or a body of the user. The securing region may include a fastener that cooperates with a corresponding fastener on the adhesive member. Optionally, the fastener and corresponding fastener may be hook-and-loop fasteners.

[0017] The main body may be formed from a first wall and a second wall, which are connected about their periphery to form the waste collecting volume. The first engagement formation may be provided by a film layer. In other words, the same or similar material as the first and / or second walls.

[0018] The second engagement formation may include a reinforced portion. According to a second aspect of the invention we provide a cover member which configured to be connected to a main body of an ostomy appliance according to any one or more of the features outlined in relation to the first aspect of the invention.

[0019] According to a third aspect of the invention we provide an ostomy appliance for collecting waste from a stoma including: a first wall and a second wall connected together to define a collecting volume, an intermediate wall, which is positioned inside the collecting volume, an outer wall, which is positioned outside the collecting volume, wherein an outer attachment zone, at which the first and second wall are attached to one another, extends about a periphery of the first and second wall, and an inner attachment zone at which the outer wall, the intermediate wall, and the first wall are attached.

[0020] The inner attachment zone may be formed such that a non-return valve mechanism is formed between the intermediate wall and the first wall. The intermediate wall may extend from a top portion of the first and I or second wall to below a top of the outer wall. The inner attachment zone may extend inwards from each side of the first wall towards a central longitudinal axis of the first wall. The inner attachment zone may extend below a bottom edge of the intermediate wall. This may form a channel between the bottom edge of the intermediate wall and the first wall. The inner attachment zone may be positioned at the top of the outer wall when it attaches the outer wall, the intermediate wall, and the first wall together. The inner attachment zone may include a further attachment. Optionally, the further attachment may be substantially centrally positioned in first wall. Optionally the further attachment may be a single weld point.

[0021] The outer wall may provide a first engagement formation for receipt of a corresponding second engagement formation of a cover member. The first engagement formation may provide a receiving formation. The receiving formation may be formed by at least a part of the inner attachment zone. The first engagement formation may include drainage slit.

[0022] The ostomy appliance may also include a gas permeable filter. Optionally the gas permeable filter may be positioned in an upper part of the first wall.

[0023] The intermediate wall may be attached to an upper part of the second wall. Optionally, a stoma opening may be provided in the second wall below the connection to the intermediate wall.

[0024] According to a fourth aspect of the invention we provide an ostomy appliance for receiving and storing waste from a stoma, including: a main body that includes a stoma opening and a waste collecting volume, and a receiving formation, a detachable cover member, which is receivable in the receiving formation of the main body and covers a portion of a front of the main body.

[0025] The receiving formation may include a mesh material. The receiving formation may include a pocket which extends across a non-bodyside wall of the main body. The cover member may be receivable in the pocket. The cover member may cover substantially the entire front face of the main body.

[0026] The receiving formation may form a semi-opaque layer. The semi-opaque layer may disguise waste inside the waste collecting volume.

[0027] It should be appreciated that any one or more features of any one of the aspects of the invention may be combined together. Specifically, the first and second walls of the third aspect may form a main body within the meaning outlined in any of the first, second or fourth aspects.

[0028] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

[0029] In orderthatthe present disclosure may be more readily understood, preferable embodiments thereof will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0030] FIGURES 1 a and 1 b are a rear view and side I cut through views of a cover member of an ostomy appliance, embodying the present disclosure;

[0031] FIGURES 2a and 2b are a front view and side I cut through views of a main body of an ostomy appliance, embodying the present disclosure;

[0032] FIGURE 3 is a side I cut though view of an ostomy appliance, embodying the present disclosure;

[0033] FIGURE 4 is a rear view of a cover member of an ostomy appliance, embodying the present disclosure;

[0034] FIGURE 5 is a rear view of a cover member of an ostomy appliance, embodying the present disclosure;

[0035] FIGURES 6a and 6b are a front view and side I cut through views of a main body of an ostomy appliance, embodying the present disclosure;

[0036] FIGURES 7a and 7b are a front view and side I cut through views of a main body of an ostomy appliance, embodying the present disclosure;

[0037] FIGURES 8a and 8b are a front view and side I cut through views of a main body of an ostomy appliance, embodying the present disclosure;

[0038] FIGURES 9a and 9b are a front view and side I cut through views of a main body of an ostomy appliance, embodying the present disclosure;

[0039] FIGURE 10 is a side I cut through view of a main body of an ostomy appliance in which a user’s finger illustrates additional functionally, embodying the present disclosure; FIGURES 11 a and 11 b are a front and side view of a main body of an ostomy appliance, embodying in the present disclosure; and

[0040] FIGURES 12a and 12b are front views of an embodiment of the disclosure.

[0041] DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE DISCLOSURE

[0042] Referring to figures 1 to 3, an ostomy appliance for receiving and storing waste from a stoma is described. The ostomy appliance includes a main body 10 and a cover member 30.

[0043] The main body 10 includes a stoma opening 12, a waste collecting volume 14 and a first engagement formation. In embodiments, the main body 10 is formed a first wall 16 and a second wall 18, which are connected about their periphery to form the waste collecting volume 14. In the illustrated example, each of the first and second wall 16, 18 is manufactured from a film I plastic layer. It should be appreciated that there may be intermediate layers within the waste collecting volume 14 (this may assist with directing liquid and solid waste while allowing gases to travel a different path). However, the waste collecting volume 14 will always be defined by a wall (or two I more walls connected together) around the outside to form a pouch I bag in which waste will collect before the appliance is emptied or disposed of.

[0044] In the present example, the main body 10 has a non-body side, which, in use, faces away from the user (in the illustrated example, the non-bodyside is the first wall 16). The main body 10 also has an opposing (body) side, which, in use, faces the user (in the illustrated example, the body side is the second wall 18).

[0045] In some embodiments, the main body 10 includes an adhesive member 20 for attachment to the user’s body. The adhesive member 20 aligns with the stoma opening 12 and adheres the main body 10 to the user’s abdominal region around a stoma (such that the exit of the stoma is in fluid communication with the waste collecting volume 14). The adhesive member 20 may be a hydrocolloid wafer or similar that is known in the ostomy pouch area.

[0046] Alternatively, the main body 10 could include a connection mechanism located around the stoma open 12. A separate adhesive member would include a corresponding connection mechanism, so that the adhesive member can be connected to the user in isolation from the main body 10 (and collecting volume 14). Once the separate adhesive member is in position on the user, the main body 10 can then be connected to the adhesive member via the connection mechanism (although of course the connection mechanism could be connected prior to attachment to the user’s body). In either case, this allows the main body 10 to be exchanged more regularly than the adhesive member if desired since it can be disconnected from the separate adhesive member. In some embodiments, the main body 10 includes an outlet portion (not shown), which has a closed state and an open state. The outlet portion has an opening that is selectively open and shut as desired. When the outlet portion is in its closed state, the main collecting volume 14 is closed and waste is held within the main body 10. When the outlet portion is in its open state, a flow path between the waste collecting volume 14 and outside of the appliance is provided. In other words, waste is able to pass out of the outlet portion.

[0047] In embodiments, the outlet portion may be provided by an elongated neck part that folds multiple times to close I unfolds to open a channel between the waste collecting volume 14 and the outside. In embodiments, the outlet portion may be provided by a valve part that includes stopper or closure mechanism to selectively open I close the waste collecting volume 14.

[0048] The cover member 30 is configured to connect to the main body and provides a cover over at least a portion of the main body 10. In other words, the cover member 30, in use, covers the front of the main body 10 (i.e. over the front of first wall 16 I over the non-bodyside side of the main body 10). It should be appreciated that the cover member 30 is removable from the main body. In other words, the cover member 30 connects to the main body and is detachable from the main body 10 (as desired by a user operating and using the device). It should be appreciated that the detachable cover member 30 is intended to connect I disconnect to the main body 10 multiple times (i.e. as often as required by the user).

[0049] The cover member 30 includes a second engagement formation. Thus, the cover member 30 is connectable via engagement between the first and second engagement formations to the main body 10.

[0050] The first and second engagement formations will now be discussed in detail. In some embodiments, one of first and second engagement formations forms a receiving formation 50 and the other of the first and second engagement formations forms a projection formation 70. In the illustrated examples, the first engagement formation forms the receiving formation 50 (i.e. on the main body 10) and the second engagement formation forms the projection formation 70 (i.e. on the cover member 30). As such, the first engagement formation receives the whole or a portion of the second engagement formation to enable the cover member 30 to detachably connect to the main body 10.

[0051] In some embodiments (see figure 2a and 2b), the receiving formation 50 provides a pocket 52. Ideally, the pocket 52 is sized to receive the projection formation 70 (or at least a part of it) closely. It should be appreciated, that by “closely sized” it is meant that the projection formation 70 fits snugly, so that there is minimal (sideways) movement between the pocket 52 and the projection formation 70 when they are fitted / connected together (the projection can be withdrawn upwards, if desired). As can be seen from the illustrated examples, the receiving formation 50 is provided on the first wall 16 of the main body 10 (in other words, the receiving formation 50 is provided on the non-bodyside of the main body 10). In other words, the pocket 52 includes an opening at an upper portion and the sides I lower part are closed to provide a receiving compartment for the projection from the cover member 30.

[0052] In the present example, the receiving formation 50 is formed from a layer (e.g. the same or similar material that the main body 10 is formed from) that extends across a portion of the main body 10. As can be seen in figure 2a, the layer extends across the width of the main body 10 - peripheral edges of the layer are connected to the first wall 16 (and may be included in the manufacturing process when the first and second walls 16, 18 are connected together). The pocket 52 is formed from the layer extending across the main body 10 - i.e. it is defined between the first wall 16 and the layer and includes one or more connections to the first wall 16 to determine the size of the pocket 52.

[0053] In some embodiments (see, for example, figure 2a, 6a, 7a, 8a, and 9a), the pocket 52 may include a pair of connections 52c to the main body 10 - these connections are spaced apart so as to provide the pocket 52 between (essentially, the connections 52c define the edge of the pocket 52). These connections 52c may be provided by welding or adhering the pocket layer to the first wall 16 of the main body 10. In the examples shown, the connections 52c are substantially straight and spaced apart from one another. As can be seen from the figures, the connections 52, taper slightly inwards towards a lower end of the pocket. This may make it easier to locate the projection formation 70 in the correct location (discussed in more detail later. However, it should be appreciated that the connections 52c could be generally aligned I parallel with each other or taper in the opposite direction as may be desired.

[0054] In some embodiments, the pocket 52 has an upper opening 52a (see, for example, all the figures showing a side profile of the main body 10). The upper opening 52a receives the projection formation 70 (illustrated in figure 3). As can be seen in the illustrated examples, the upper opening 52a of the pocket 52 extends substantially across the main body 10 (generally aligned with a horizontal axis across the appliance and I or generally transverse to a longitudinal axis extending centrally top to bottom of the appliance).

[0055] In some embodiments, the pocket 52 has a lower opening 52b (see figure 2b). The lower opening 52b allows liquid to drain from the pocket 52 (e.g. water could get caught in the pocket 52 when a user showers or swims - the lower opening 52b allows that water to drain away).

[0056] In some embodiments, the receiving formation 50 is connected to the first wall 16 at the lower end of the pocket through an additional connection 54 - see figures 6a and 6b, for example. In these examples, the pocket 52 is connected to the main body 10 at a lower end. As can be seen, the additional connection 54 is provided at the lower end of the pocket 52. This may be advantageous as it may provide additional structure to the main body 10 and ensure the receiving formation 50 holds the projection 70 securely. In some embodiments, another (small) opening may be provided at a lower end of the pocket 52 to provide drainage (which is advantageous, for example, if water gets caught in the pocket 52 - the user may shower or swim or get rained on, for example).

[0057] In some embodiments (see figures 7a to 9b, for example), the receiving formation 50 includes a folded layer 56 at the upper opening 52a. In other words, the top of receiving formation 50 is provided with a double layer of material (which may increase the structural stability of the pocket 52 I ensure the pocket 52 is less likely to deform from its intended shape). It should be appreciated that if the receiving formation 50 is formed from a plastic I film layer of the same material as the first wall 16, it is likely to a thin layer, so an additional layer from the folded layer 56 will provide more support and I or structure than a single layer.

[0058] In some embodiments, the folded layer 56 provides a free edge 58. In some embodiments (e.g. see figure 7b) the free edge is located inside the pocket 52. In such an embodiment, the folded layer 56 could form a tube portion 60 (this example is illustrated in figure 8b). The tube portion 60 extends across the upper opening 54 and provides a double layer of material at the top of the pocket 52. The tube portion 60 may naturally push the top of the pocket 52 outwards and, thus, make it easier for the projection formation 70 to be pushed into the upper opening 54.

[0059] Alternatively, the free edge 58 is located outside of the pocket 52 (see figures 9b and 10). In such an example, the free edge 58 acts as an aid to pull the pocket 52 open. Figure 10 illustrates how the receiving formation 50 may provide a user aid to assist with opening the pocket 52 - as can be seen a fingertip can be placed under the free edge 58 and used to lever the pocket 52 open.

[0060] Now the cover member 30 and the second engagement formation I projection formation 70 will be described. Essentially, the projection formation 70 is configured to be inserted into the receiving formation 50 - which supports the cover member 30 in a position relative to the main body 10 (i.e. in front of the main body 10 to act as an outer layer of the appliance).

[0061] Similarly, to the main body 10, the cover member 30 has a side that is configured to face the user I the main body 10 in use and another side that is outward facing I faces away from the body in use. In other words, the cover member 30 has a front side 32 that, in use, faces away from a user and a second side 34, to which the upper attachment zone 72 connects (this second side 34 faces the main body 10 of the appliance in use). As can be seen in the figures, the projection formation 70 is positioned on the body facing side 34 of the cover member 30. In some embodiments, the projection formation 70 is attached to the cover member 30 and extends to a free end 74. In other words, the projection formation 70 has an attachment zone 72 (in an upper portion). In the illustrated example, the projection formation 70 extends generally downwards to the free end 74 (see figure 1 a and 1 b). Essentially, the free end 74 is configured to insert into the pocket 52, so the projection extends downwards to insert into the upper opening 52a in the pocket 52. In other words, during connection, the free end 74 continues to push down into the pocket 52, so that the remainder of the projection is also received to provide a stable anchor between the cover member 30 and the main body 10.

[0062] The projection formation 70 could be formed I attach to the cover member in multiple different ways. In some embodiments, the upper attachment zone 72 extends across a width of the cover member 30 (see figure 1a). In other words, the projection formation 70 includes a layer of material that extends across the cover member 30. The layer of material may extend across only a portion of the area of the cover member 30 or it may extend across the entire of the cover member 30 - three examples are illustrated in figures 1 a, 4 and 5 (in each figure, the crosshatching indicates the projection formation 70). As can be seen in figure 1a, the upper attachment zone 72 extends across the width of the cover member 30. The upper attachment zone 72 extends generally horizontally across the cover member 30 to provide a band that is connected to the second side 34.

[0063] In embodiments, the band is welded to the edges of the main body 10 - i.e. to the outer periphery 36. There maybe be one or more additional points I regions of welding I attachment across the cover member 30. In other words, the upper attachment zone 72 could be attached to the cover member 30 at two outer spaced regions or the attachment could extend substantially across the entire cover member 30. A balance is found between providing structure to the connection between the projection formation 70 and the cover member 30 (more welding I connection zones will likely result in a stiffer cover member 30) and the level I integrity of the attachment.

[0064] As can be seen in figure 4, the upper attachment zone 72 extends across the upper portion of the cover member 30. In this example, the entire upper attachment zone 72 may be attached to the cover member 30 layer (e.g. to the second or back side 34) or the upper attachment zone 72 forms part of the outer periphery at the upper portion of the cover member 30 and, thus, it may form a partial side of the cover member 30 and be welded with other layers.

[0065] Alternatively, the projection formation 70 may be formed as the outer layer of the cover member 30 and the upper attachment zone 72 may be attached to the outer periphery 36 of the cover member 30. In some embodiments, the cover member 30 is made from at least two layers (i.e. one provides the outer face of the first side 32 (the “front face”) and one provides the outer face of the second side 34 (the “back face”)). The at least two layers may be welded I attached about the periphery 36 to form the cover member 30. The projection formation 70 may form part of one of those layers (i.e. the second side 34). It should be appreciated that the projection formation 70 could be formed by cutting a slit in a complete layer of the cover member - the back layer could be welded about the entire periphery of the cover member 30 and the layer may be cut in the desired shape to provide the projecting end 74 that is used to insert in the pocket 52.

[0066] As can be seen in figure 5, the upper attachment zone 72 is localised to a top part of the first engagement formation I projection formation 70. In this example, the projection formation 70 is attached to the back face of the cover member 30 across the top part of the formation 70 and the projecting end 74 extends downwards from the top part.

[0067] It should be appreciated that the upper attachment zone 72 could be attached to the cover member 30 with a non-permanent attachment. In such an example, it would allow the projection formation 70 to be made from a material that may not wash well but provides advantageous structure for the ostomy appliance when used. This allows the removal of the projection formation 70 from the cover member 30, so that the remainder of the cover member 30 can be cleaned. As such, the cover member 30 is also disconnectable from the main body 10.

[0068] Essentially, the cover member 30 includes on its second side 34, a formation that has a part that extends away from or is spaced from the remainder of the second side 34 and allows it to engage with the corresponding formation on the non-bodyside wall 16 of the main body 10.

[0069] In some embodiments, the projecting end 74 may be reinforced I stiffened (when compared to the remainder of the cover layers I material). This may make it easier to push it into the pocket 52. For example, one or more additional layers could be added or additional welding could be used to stiffen the projecting end 74.

[0070] The projecting part I end 74 may have different shapes. In some embodiments, the projecting end 74 is substantially trapezium in shape (i.e. the majority of each side is substantially straight and has one pair of generally parallel sides) and in this example, narrows towards the lower edge 74a (i.e. the furthest end from the upper attachment zone 72). In some embodiments, the free end 74 may include a transversely extending barb portion (not shown). The barb portion extends from a lateral edge 74b of the free end 74, outwards, so that when the free end 74 is inserted into the pocket 52, the barb portion is initially deflected inwards (towards a centrally axis of the projection formation 70) and returns to its original shape once in the pocket 52. Thus, the barb portion provides a resistance to the cover member 30 being removed from the receiving formation 50 (which may prevent or reduce instances when the cover member 30 becomes detached by accident). The free end 74 may include a pair of barb portions - each one extending in an opposing direction, so both lateral edges 74b of the free end 74 includes a barb portion extending transversely with respect to the cover member 30 / projecting formation 70. An alternative to a barb portion could be providing a projecting part 74 that widens as it extends downwards towards the free end.

[0071] It should be appreciated that there may be more than one projecting part 74 that extends from the upper attachment zone 72. For example, there may be two projecting parts that are positioned adjacent one another. In such an embodiment, the receiving formation 50 on the main body 10 may include two corresponding pockets into which the projection formation 70 extends. Or, alternatively, one larger pockets that engages both projecting parts may be used.

[0072] In some embodiments, the cover member 30 includes a loop or bib (not shown) which, when the cover member 30 is connected to the main body 10, extends around a lower part of the main body 10. The loop includes a portion of material that extends from one side of the cover member 30 to the other and provides an opening at the top and bottom for the lower portion of the main body 10 to extend through. Alternatively (or additionally), a bib is provided that extends along a bottom periphery of the cover member 30 and provides an open topped pocket into which the bottom of the main body 10 is placed. In an embodiment with a bib, it should be appreciated that a drainage opening may be provided at the bottom (so as to allow water to drain if it gets caught in the cover member 30).

[0073] In some embodiments, the cover member 30 includes a securing region 78 for direct connection to an adhesive member or a body of the user (illustrated in figure 1a). In the illustrated example, the securing region 78 connects to the top of the adhesive member and the top of the main body 10 are covered. In embodiments, the securing region 78 includes a fastener that cooperates with a corresponding fastener on the adhesive member. In the present preferred example, the securing region 78 includes a section of hook-and-loop fastener, which cooperates with a corresponding section of hook-and-loop fastener on the adhesive member. It should be appreciated that this may not be the case (especially if, for example, it is desired for the cover member 30 to connect directly to skin) and the securing region 78 may include adhesive, skin friendly adhesive, gecko tape, or other fastener to secure the top of the cover member 30 in the “in use” position.

[0074] The general structure of the appliance and the engagement formations provided on the main body 10 and the cover member 30 have been described above. It should be appreciated that the projection formation 70 and the receiving formation 50 could be provided in different ways - the below description provides examples of how the appliance may be constructed (particularly with reference to other features the appliance provides). Nevertheless, it should be appreciated that this specific structure does not need to be followed in order to provide the engagement formations outlined above. Further, any of the described cover member 30 features could be combined with any of the main body 10 features described. As mentioned above, the first and second wall 16, 18 define the collecting volume 14. With particular reference to figure 11 b, the ostomy appliance further includes an intermediate wall 104, an outer wall 106, an outer attachment zone 110 and an inner attachment zone 112.

[0075] The intermediate wall 104 is positioned inside the collecting volume 14. In some embodiments, a gas permeable filter 120 is provided. In the illustrated example, the filter 120 is provided on the non-bodyside wall I first wall 16 (and more preferably, the filter 120 is positioned in an upper part of the first wall 16). The intermediate wall 104 provides one or more openings I perforations between the collecting volume 14 and an upper chamber 122. This permits gas to pass through the intermediate wall 104 and out to atmosphere through the filter 120.

[0076] In other words, the intermediate wall 104 provides a cover to the filter 120 that reduces waste build up next to or on the filter 120 while still allowing waste gases to escape (if the gas becomes trapped then the ostomy appliance may balloon, which may not be discrete or pleasant to use).

[0077] In the illustrated example, the intermediate wall 104 extends from a top portion of one wall (in this case, the second wall 18) down to a mid-section of the opposing wall (in this case, the first wall 16). As can be seen in figure 11 b, the intermediate wall 104 is attached to the body side wall 18 above the connection to the adhesive member 20. The waste from the stoma will enter the appliance through a stoma opening in the adhesive member 20 and flow downwards to the collecting volume 14. The intermediate wall 104 extends across the interior of the main body 10 and connects to the non-bodyside wall 16 below the filter 120.

[0078] The outer wall 106 is positioned outside the collecting volume 14. In other words, the outer wall 106 is external I on the outside of the first I second wall 16, 18. In this case, the outer wall 106 is provided on the front face of the main body 10 - i.e. on the first wall 16.

[0079] The outer wall 106 may form part of or provide the first engagement formation discussed above (i.e. the outer wall 106 provides the first engagement formation of the main body 10 for receipt of the corresponding second engagement formation of the cover member 30). In other words, the outer wall 106 provides the receiving formation 50 into which the projection formation 70 inserts to connect the cover member 30 to the main body 10.

[0080] The outer attachment zone 110 extends about the periphery of the first and second wall 16, 18. In other words, the outer attachment zone 110 is the peripheral attachment that seals the first and second wall 16, 18 together to form the main body 10 (typically, this is provided by a welded seam). The intermediate wall 104 is included in the seal around the upper portion of the main body 10. Thus, the intermediate wall 104 is clamped in the outer edge of the main body 10. Further, the outer wall 106 is also included in the outer attachment zone 110 to form a layer over the top of the first wall 16. In the illustrated embodiment, the outer wall 104 extends across the entire mid / lower portion of the main body 10. Thus, the outer wall 104 also forms an integral part of the main body 10.

[0081] The inner attachment zone 112 attaches the outer wall 106, the intermediate wall 104, and the first wall 16 together (in other words, the outer wall 112, intermediate wall 104 and first wall 16 are connected - through the “front” layers of the bag - while preserving the collecting volume 14 between the intermediate wall 104 and the second wall 18 behind). As illustrated in figure 11 b, the bottom 104a of the intermediate wall 104 overlaps with the top 106a of the outer wall 106. Thus, in the overlap region 150, the inner attachment zone 112 can connect each of the outer wall 106, the intermediate wall 104 and the first wall 16.

[0082] In embodiments, the inner attachment zone 112 extends from each side of the main body 10 inwards towards a central longitudinal axis of the main body 10. As can be seen in figure 11a, there are two regions 112a of inner attachment zone 112 that extend across each side of the first wall 16 (substantially horizontally). Either side of the central axis, each of the two regions extends downwards 112b towards the bottom of the first wall 16. Lastly, a central region 112c connects the two downwardly extending regions 112b.

[0083] The downwardly extending regions 112b of the inner attachment 112 extend past the bottom edge 104a of the intermediate wall 104. Therefore, part of the downwardly extending regions 112b and the central region 112c only attach the outer wall 106 to the first wall 16. This results in an opening between the intermediate wall 104 and the first wall 16 (i.e. between the downwardly extending regions 112b). Thus, the inner attachment zone 112 is formed such that a non-return valve mechanism is formed between the intermediate wall 104 and the first wall 16. In other words, the inner attachment zone 112 extends below the bottom edge 104a of the intermediate wall 104, such that a channel is formed between the bottom edge 104a of the intermediate wall 104 and the first wall 16.

[0084] Advantageously, the same attachment zone 112 and how it connects the outer wall 106 to the first wall 16 also allows the formation of the first engagement formation. In other words, the inner attachment zone 122 allows the formation of the non-return valve and the formation of the receiving formation 50. The shape of the attachment zone 112a, 112b, 112c on the outer wall 106 provides the pocket 52 of the receiving formation 50 (the connections 52c, 54 of the pocket 52 are included as references on figure 11a to illustrate that the same connection provides two distinct functions on different layers).

[0085] In some embodiments, the inner attachment zone 112 (the regions 112a that extend inwards form either side) is positioned at the top 106a of the outer wall 106. Thus, this portion forms the top of the receiving formation 50 - between the attachment zone 112a provides the upper opening 52a to the pocket 52. Where the attachment zone 112 extends downwardly (regions 112b), forms the sides 52c of the pocket 52 and the channel of the non-return valve on the interior of the main body 10. Lastly, the central region 112c provides the bottom of the pocket 52. The lower opening I drainage opening 108 is provided by an additional slit provided in the bottom of the pocket 52.

[0086] In some embodiments, the inner attachment zone 112 includes a further attachment 116. In the illustrated example, the further attachment 116 is positioned substantially centrally in the first wall 16. In some embodiments, the further attachment 116 is a single weld point (i.e. a spot weld that extends through the outer wall 106, the first wall 16, and the intermediate wall 104). In the illustrated example (see figure 11a), the outer wall 106 is cut to allow the further attachment 116 to extend through to the intermediate wall 104 without impacting the provision of the receiving formation 50. In other words, a portion 106b of the outer wall 106 is disconnected from the remainder of the wall 106, so that the pocket 52 is maintained. This allows the additional spot weld to be provided, which improves the non-return valve functionality of the intermediate wall 104. In the illustrated example, the disconnected portion 106b is generally triangular with rounded corners. It should be appreciated that the disconnected portion 106b could be any desired shape - the important aspect is that it permits the spot weld I further attachment 116 to extend through the outer wall 106 without impacting the pocket 52 provided.

[0087] In all the examples discussed, the pocket 52 is provided on the front face of the main body 10 and the projection of the cover member 30 is inserted into it. This encourages the main body 10 to maintain its shape even when connected to the cover. For example, if any of the connections extended through the entire main body 10 there would be a much greater risk that the shape of the appliance would distort as the waste collecting volume 14 filled with waste.

[0088] Further, the pocket 521 projection 74 extends over approximately a third of the width of the appliance - this provides a good (and in this case, central) anchor point between the main body 10 and the cover member 30.

[0089] Figures 12a and 12b illustrate another embodiment - where features are the same or similar to features that have already be described the same reference number is provided with the addition of a prime symbol (‘). The main body 10’ includes a stoma opening and a waste collecting volume (as described above but not explicitly shown in figure 11). The main body 10’ further includes a receiving formation 50’.

[0090] The receiving formation 50’ includes a pocket 52’. In some embodiments, the pocket 52’ extends across a non-bodyside wall 16’ of the main body 10’. As can be seen in the illustrated examples, the pocket 52’ may extend across a bottom portion of the main body 10’. In some embodiments, the receiving formation 50’ includes a mesh material. In other words, the pocket 52’ may be provided by a mesh material that extends across the first wall 16’ of the main body 10’ - thus, the interior of the pocket 52’ is defined between the first wall 16’ and the mesh material layer.

[0091] In embodiments, the receiving formation 50’ forms a semi-opaque layer which disguises waste inside the waste collecting volume. In other words, the pocket 52’ layer that extends across the first wall 16’ is provided by a material that obscures the contents of the collecting volume. The mesh material could be chosen to provide this functionality - for example, the mesh openings may be small enough to disguise the inner contents at least partially.

[0092] A cover member 30’ is provided, which is receivable in the receiving formation 50’ of the main body 10’ and covers a portion of a front of the main body 10’. In other words, the cover member 30’ is receivable in the pocket 52’. Once in position, the cover member 30’ extends across I covers substantially the entire front face (e.g. the first wall 16’) of the main body 10’.

[0093] If the pocket 52’ is made of the mesh material discussed above, then the cover / pattern of the cover member 30’ will be visible to some extent through the mesh material. Thus, providing a pleasant appearance for the user.

[0094] Figure 12a provides an illustration of the placement of the cover member 30’. An arrow (referenced by “A”) indicates the movement of the cover member 30’ to move it into position in the receiving formation 50’.

[0095] It should be appreciated that the cover member 30’ may still include the securing region (not shown) in the same way as discussed above that attaches the top of the cover member 30’ to the user directly or to the adhesive member which is connecting the main body 10’ to the user’s body.

[0096] An advantage of embodiments of the present disclosure is that a user can choose a cover that suits them and their needs. The manufacture of the main body part of the appliance is the same irrespective of what type I colour of cover is chosen. This reduces material use and waste at the manufacturing stage since fewer items require manufacturing while still ensuring that the end user is offered a broad choice of options in their ostomy appliance.

[0097] When used in this specification and claims, the terms "comprises" and "comprising" and variations thereof mean that the specified features, steps or integers are included. The terms are not to be interpreted to exclude the presence of other features, steps or components. The invention may also broadly consist in the parts, elements, steps, examples and / or features referred to or indicated in the specification individually or collectively in any and all combinations of two or more said parts, elements, steps, examples and / or features. In particular, one or more features in any of the embodiments described herein may be combined with one or more features from any other embodiment(s) described herein.

[0098] Protection may be sought for any features disclosed in any one or more published documents referenced herein in combination with the present disclosure.

[0099] Although certain example embodiments of the invention have been described, the scope of the appended claims is not intended to be limited solely to these embodiments. The claims are to be construed literally, purposively, and / or to encompass equivalents.

[0100] REPRESENTATIVE FEATURES

[0101] Representative features are set out in the following clauses, which stand alone or may be combined, in any combination, with one or more features disclosed in the text and / or drawings of the specification.

[0102] 1 . An ostomy appliance for collecting waste from a stoma including: a first wall and a second wall connected together to define a collecting volume, an intermediate wall, which is positioned inside the collecting volume, an outer wall, which is positioned outside the collecting volume, wherein an outer attachment zone, at which the first and second wall are attached to one another, extends about a periphery of the first and second wall, and an inner attachment zone at which the outer wall, the intermediate wall, and the first wall are attached.

[0103] 2. An ostomy appliance according to clause 1 wherein the inner attachment zone is formed such that a non-return valve mechanism is formed between the intermediate wall and the first wall.

[0104] 3. An ostomy appliance according to any one of the preceding clauses wherein the intermediate wall extends from a top portion of the first and I or second wall to below a top of the outer wall.

[0105] 4. An ostomy appliance according to clause 3 wherein the inner attachment zone extends inwards from each side of the first wall towards a central longitudinal axis of the first wall.

[0106] 5. An ostomy appliance according to clause 4 wherein the inner attachment zone extends below a bottom edge of the intermediate wall, such that a channel is formed between the bottom edge of the intermediate wall and the first wall. 6. An ostomy appliance according to clauses 3 to 5 wherein the inner attachment zone is positioned at the top of the outer wall when it attaches the outer wall, the intermediate wall, and the first wall together.

[0107] 7. An ostomy appliance according to any of the preceding clauses wherein the inner attachment zone includes a further attachment, and optionally wherein in the further attachment is substantially centrally positioned in first wall, and optionally the further attachment is a single weld point.

[0108] 8. An ostomy appliance according to any one of the preceding clauses wherein the outer wall provides a first engagement formation for receipt of a corresponding second engagement formation of a detachable cover member.

[0109] 9. An ostomy appliance according to clause 8 wherein the first engagement formation provides a receiving formation, which is formed by at least a part of the inner attachment zone.

[0110] 10. An ostomy appliance according to any of clauses 8 or 9 wherein the first engagement formation includes drainage slit.

[0111] 11 . An ostomy appliance according to any one of the preceding clauses further including a gas permeable filter, and optionally wherein the gas permeable filter is positioned in an upper part of the first wall.

[0112] 12. An ostomy appliance according to any one of the preceding clauses wherein the intermediate wall is attached to an upper part of the second wall, and optionally, wherein a stoma opening is provided in the second wall below the connection to the intermediate wall.

[0113] 13. An ostomy appliance for receiving and storing waste from a stoma, including: a main body that includes a stoma opening and a waste collecting volume, and a receiving formation, a detachable cover member, which is receivable in the receiving formation of the main body and covers a portion of a front of the main body.

[0114] 14. An ostomy appliance according to clause 13 wherein the receiving formation includes a mesh material.

[0115] 15. An ostomy appliance according to clauses 13 or 14 wherein the receiving formation includes a pocket which extends across a non-bodyside wall of the main body. 16. An ostomy appliance according to any one of clauses 15 wherein the cover member is receivable in the pocket and covers substantially the entire front face of the main body.

[0116] 17. An ostomy appliance according to any one of clauses 13 to 16 wherein the receiving formation forms a semi-opaque layer which disguises waste inside the waste collecting volume.

[0117] 18. An ostomy appliance according to any one of the preceding clauses wherein the first and second walls form a main body within the meaning outlined below in one or more of the appended claims.

Claims

CLAIMS1 . An ostomy appliance for receiving and storing waste from a stoma, including: a main body that includes a stoma opening and a waste collecting volume, and a first engagement formation, a detachable cover member, which includes a second engagement formation, so that the cover member is connectable via engagement between the first and second engagement formations to the main body and covers a portion of a front of the main body.

2. An ostomy appliance according to claim 1 wherein one of first and second engagement formations forms a receiving formation and the other of the first and second engagement formations forms a projection formation.

3. An ostomy appliance according to claim 2 wherein the projection formation has an upper attachment zone and extends downwards to a free end, to be received in the receiving formation.

4. An ostomy appliance according to claim 3 wherein the projection formation includes a substantially trapezium shaped portion, which narrows towards the free end.

5. An ostomy appliance according to any one of claims 3 to 4 wherein the upper attachment zone connects to the cover member.

6. An ostomy appliance according to claim 5 wherein the cover member has a front side that, in use, faces away from a user and a second side, to which the upper attachment zone connects.

7. An ostomy appliance according to any one of claims 3 to 6 wherein the upper attachment zone extends across a width of the cover member, and optionally, the upper attachment zone extends upwards to a top of the cover member.

8. An ostomy appliance according to any one of claims 2 to 7 wherein the receiving formation provides a pocket, and preferably, the pocket is sized to receive the projection formation closely.

9. An ostomy appliance according to claim 8 wherein the pocket has an upper opening to receive the projection formation and, optionally, also includes a lower opening for allowing caught liquid to drain.

10. An ostomy appliance according to any one of claims 9 wherein the receiving formation includes a folded layer at the upper opening.11 . An ostomy appliance according to claim 10 wherein the folded layer provides a free edge, which is located inside the pocket or, alternatively, the free edge is located outside of the pocket and provides an aid to pull the pocket open.

12. An ostomy appliance according to claim 10 wherein the folded layer forms a tube portion at and across the upper opening.

13. An ostomy appliance according to one of claims 8 to 12 wherein the receiving formation attached to the main body.

14. An ostomy appliance according to claim 13 wherein the main body has a non-body side which, in use, faces away from the user, and a body side, which, in use, faces the user and the receiving formation is attached to the non-body side.

15. An ostomy appliance according to any one of claims 2 to 14 wherein the first engagement formation is the receiving formation and the second engagement formation is the projection formation.

16. An ostomy appliance according to any one of the preceding claims wherein the main body includes an outlet portion that has a closed state, in which waste is held in the waste collecting volume, and an open state, in which waste is able to pass out of the outlet portion.

17. An ostomy appliance according to any one of the previous claims wherein the main body includes an adhesive member for attachment to the user’s body or a connection mechanism for connecting to a separate adhesive member.

18. An ostomy appliance according to any one of the preceding claims wherein the cover member includes a loop portion which, when the cover member is connected to the main body, extends around a lower position of the main body.

19. An ostomy appliance according to any one of the preceding claims wherein the cover member includes a securing region for direct connection to an adhesive member or a body of the user.

20. An ostomy appliance according to claim 19 wherein the securing region includes a fastener that cooperates with a corresponding fastener on the adhesive member, and optionally the fastener and corresponding fastener are hook-and-loop fasteners.21 . An ostomy appliance according to any one of the preceding claims wherein the main body is formed from a first wall and a second wall, which are connected about their periphery to form the waste collecting volume.

22. An ostomy appliance according to any one of the preceding claims wherein the first engagement formation provided by a film layer.

23. An ostomy appliance according to any one of the preceding claims wherein the second engagement formation includes a reinforced portion.

24. A cover member configured to be connected to a main body of an ostomy appliance according to any one of the preceding claims.

25. An ostomy appliance for collecting waste from a stoma including: a first wall and a second wall connected together to define a collecting volume, an intermediate wall, which is positioned inside the collecting volume, an outer wall, which is positioned outside the collecting volume, wherein an outer attachment zone, at which the first and second wall are attached to one another, extends about a periphery of the first and second wall, and an inner attachment zone at which the outer wall, the intermediate wall, and the first wall are attached.

26. An ostomy appliance for receiving and storing waste from a stoma, including: a main body that includes a stoma opening and a waste collecting volume, and a receiving formation, a detachable cover member, which is receivable in the receiving formation of the main body and covers a portion of a front of the main body.

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