A collecting device

Abstract

An ostomy pouch comprises a fluid tight storage chamber for containing bodily waste matter. A flexible, elongate neck is located at a lower end of the storage chamber that defines a discharge channel having an inlet located at a first end in fluid communication with the storage chamber, and an outlet at an opposing second end. The neck is reconfigurable between a folded state and an unfurled state. A first flow control device is located at the outlet end of the neck that is reconfigurable between a closed configuration in which the flow of waste matter through the discharge channel is restricted by the first flow control device and an open configuration in which the first flow control device permits waste matter to flow through the discharge channel. A second flow control device is located along the neck upstream of the first flow control device that is reconfigurable between a closed configuration in which the flow of waste matter through the discharge channel is restricted by the first flow control device and an open configuration in which the second flow control device permits waste matter to flow through the first flow control device. The first and second flow control devices remain in the closed configuration as the neck is reconfigured to the unfurled state and the second flow control device is caused to move to the open configuration when the first flow control device is operated to reconfigure it to the open configuration.

Description

FIELD OF INVENTION

[0001] The present invention relates to a collecting device such as an ostomy pouch or wound bag, and in particular a collecting device with a sealable discharge outlet having a two stage flow control device. BACKGROUND

[0002] Ostomy procedures such as colostomy, ileostomy and / or urostomy, result in a portion of the patient's ileum or colon protruding through an opening in the patient's abdomen. The protruding end section of the ileum or colon is referred to as a stoma. Following an ostomy procedure, a collection device is required for collecting waste from the patient's stoma, which may be urine or faeces depending on the ostomy procedure and the nature of the stoma. Typically, a collection bag or 'ostomy pouch' is provided that receives the stoma and collects the waste.

[0003] Wound bags are also provided for managing fistulae, multiple or irregular stomas, and high output wounds. A wound bag typically comprises a transparent collecting bag having an opening for receiving bodily fluid and a seal that surrounds the opening and secures to the wearer's body.

[0004] Collecting devices such as ostomy pouches generally of two sheets of flexible impermeable plastic film that form front and rear walls that are welded together around their periphery to form a common edge seal. The pouch will include an inlet for receiving bodily fluids or waste. In the case of an ostomy pouch the opening will be configured for receiving a stoma. The pouch will also typically also be provided with a drainage system to enable the pouch to be periodically emptied by the patient as it fills. Urostomy pouches and wound bags contain only liquid and the drainage arrangement will therefore most usually comprise an outlet valve in the form of a controllable nozzle that permits the liquid to be drained from the pouch. Solid waste requires a wider, unrestricted outlet, which may be provided in the form of a resealable neck that extends from the lower end of the bag. The neck is folded several times and a fastening means such as Velcro® straps are provided to hold the neck in the folded configuration. The series of folds in the neck create a sealing arrangement that prevent waste from flowing through the neck.

[0005] The drainage procedure for an ostomy pouch containing solid waste requires the user to release the fastening that holds the neck and unfurl the neck to an open configuration in which the neck extends substantially straight down from the bag. Once the neck is unfurled the waste flows through the neck under gravity to the outlet opening and the patient directs the outlet flow into a toilet or other receptacle. However, the pressure from the waste contained in the bag as the neck is semi-unfolded, particularly where the bag is full or contains both solid and liquid, can force the remaining folds open and cause the waste to being to flow from the outlet opening of the neck before it is fully unfurled. As a result, it is very difficult for the patient to accurately control the direction of the outlet flow. Premature outlet flow can result in spillage on the patient or the surrounding area, causing embarrassment and inconvenience to the patient. Patient's also experience difficulty in cleaning the neck of the pouch following discharge due to the continued slow discharge of waste remnants from the pouch before the neck is re-folded. A folded neck sealing arrangement also prevents an accidental discharge risk if the fastening means were to release neck. That is to say, if the neck is accidentally released it will unfold under the pressure of the pouch contents and there is nothing to prevent the contents from freely discharging.

[0006] It is known to configure an ostomy pouch such that the discharge channel is opened in a two-stage process. European Patent Number 1511448 describes an ostomy pouch having an elongate neck defining a discharge channel. The neck of the pouch is folded between an unfolded open configuration and a folded closed configuration. The pouch relies on the folds in the neck to provide a seal in the closed configuration. A Velcro® fastener holds the neck in the folded closed configuration. The pouch also includes a loop that inhibits the release of two of the folds in the neck when the Velcro fastener 61 is released, having the effect of holding the neck in an intermediate configuration in which the two folds are retained and provide a seal. The minimal retaining force of the loop is such that the user need only lightly pull the neck to release the two folds and move the neck to the fully unfolded open configuration. Although this provides some time for the user to adjust the neck following initial release, the retained folds mean the neck must still be adjusted and directed while being pulled to the fully unfolded configuration. Furthermore, in the intermediate configuration the retained folds are the only remaining seal and the weak holding force means the folds are prone to untimely opening under pressure from within the pouch.

[0007] It is therefore desirable to provide an improved ostomy pouch which addresses the above described problems and / or which offers improvements generally. SUMMARY

[0008] According to the present invention there is provided an ostomy pouch as described in the accompanying claims.

[0009] In an embodiment of the invention there is provided an ostomy pouch comprising a fluid tight storage chamber for containing bodily waste matter. An opening is provided in the storage chamber for receiving bodily fluids and / or waste matter, which may include by way of example urine, faeces, blood, lymph, or tissue fluid. A flexible, elongate neck is located at a lower end of the storage chamber, the neck defining a discharge channel having an inlet opening located at a first end in fluid communication with the storage chamber, and an outlet opening located at an opposing second end, the neck being reconfigurable between a folded state and an unfurled state. A first flow control device is located at the outlet end of the neck that is operable to be reconfigured between a closed configuration in which the flow of waste matter through the discharge channel is restricted by the first flow control device and an open configuration in which the first flow control device permits waste matter to flow through the discharge channel. A second flow control device is located along the neck upstream of the first flow control device, the second flow control device being reconfigurable between a closed configuration in which the flow of waste matter through the discharge channel is restricted by the first flow control device and an open configuration in which the second flow control device permits waste matter to flow through the first flow control device. The first and second flow control devices remain in the closed configuration as the neck is reconfigured to the unfurled state and are arranged such that the second flow control device is caused to move to the open configuration when the first flow control device is operated to reconfigure it to the open configuration.

[0010] The second flow control device thereby seals or at least restricts flow through the discharge channel as it is unfurled, allowing the user to confidently release and unfurl the neck with two hands if required, and to then direct the outlet opening of the neck at a toilet without risk of premature discharge. The user is then able to open the discharge channel and empty the pouch by operating the first flow control device, which may include squeezing the first flow control device. Advantageously this step may be undertaken using a single hand. The terms folded and unfurled may comprises linearly folding segments of the neck upwardly in sequence, either forwardly or rearwardly; collapsing the neck about a series of fold lines in a concertina configuration or any other suitable means in which the neck is reconfigured about a series of fold lines.

[0011] The first flow control device is preferably reconfigurable between a closed configuration, an intermediate open configuration and a fully open configuration. The second flow control device remains closed when the first flow control device is reconfigured between the closed configuration and the intermediate open configuration and opens when the first flow control device is reconfigured from the intermediate open configuration to the fully open configuration. The term fully open configuration means a degree of opening sufficient to operate the second flow device, thereby fully opening the flow channel and allowing flow to the outlet. The term fully open configuration does not required the first flow control device to be opened to its maximum diameter. The size of the outlet opening may be varied when the first flow control device is in the fully open configuration by varying the pressure applied to the first flow control device.

[0012] Preferably the first flow control device is moved to the open configuration when inward pressure is applied to the sides of the first flow control device.

[0013] Preferably the first and second flow control devices are configured and arranged such that the first flow control device moves to the open configuration when the second flow control device operated to move it to the open configuration.

[0014] Preferably the second flow control device is moved to the open configuration when it is squeezed inwardly by the operator.

[0015] Preferably the first flow control device is moved to the open configuration when inward pressure is applied to the sides of the first flow control device.

[0016] Preferably the first and second flow control devices are configured and arranged such that the first flow control device moves to the open configuration when the second flow control device is operated to move it to the open configuration and the lower section of the neck is pulled away from the first flow control device while the second flow control device is in the open configuration.

[0017] Preferably the lower section of the neck is pulled away from the first flow control device by pulling downwardly on the second flow control device.

[0018] The first flow control device may be spaced along the neck from the second flow control device by an extendable lower section of the neck, and operating the first flow control device to move it to the open configuration includes applying inward pressure to the sides of first flow control device and pulling the first flow control device away from the second flow control device when lower section of the neck is extended.

[0019] Preferably the first flow control device is configured and arranged such that it remains in the closed configuration as the neck is transitioned to the unfurled open state and moves to the open configuration when the lower section of the neck is pulled in a direction away from the first flow control device.

[0020] The closed configuration of the second flow control device preferably comprises a fully closed configuration in which the neck is in a folded closed state and the first flow control device is closed, and an intermediate closed configuration in which the neck is unfolded and the second flow control device is closed, and wherein the second flow control device remains in the intermediate closed configuration when the neck is reconfigured to the unfurled open state until the lower section of the neck is pulled in a direction away from the first flow control device to move the first flow control device to the open configuration.

[0021] The neck may be fully or partially unfurled in the intermediate state and is pulled downwardly away from the first flow control device to move it to the unfurled fully open state. It is in the intermediate state that the user is able to safely direct the outlet open of the discharge channel.

[0022] The first flow control device preferably comprises at least one stiffening member secured transversely across an outer surface of the neck that is arranged to flex and bow outwardly relative to the discharge channel when the first flow control device is in the open configuration and the lower section of the neck is pulled away from the first flow control device. In the closed and intermediate configurations the stiffening member holds the film walls of the neck at their full width and keeps the front and rear films closed together, ensuring that an effective seal is made when that section of the neck is folded. Conversely, in the open configuration the flexed stiffening member pulls films apart, ensuring free flow through the discharge channel. In a further advantage, the flow through the discharge channel may be controlled by selectively varying the degree to which the stiffening member is flexed.

[0023] The first flow control device preferably comprises first and second stiffening members secured transversely across an outer surface of the neck in a longitudinally adjacent arrangement, the first and second stiffening members are foldable relative to each other about a transversely extending fold line defined between the first and second stiffening members between a folded state corresponding to the closed configuration and an unfolded state corresponding to the open configuration. The use of two stiffening members ensures an effective and robust seal when the stiffening members are folded against each other to close the neck.

[0024] The neck preferably has a longitudinal axis defined along its length and the first and second stiffening members are arranged transversely across the discharge channel perpendicular to the longitudinal axis.

[0025] The discharge channel may be formed of a front wall and a rear wall that in use face away from and towards the wearer respectively, the front and rear walls are sealed together along their side edges and each have an inner surface within the channel and an external outer surface and the first and second stiffening members are secured longitudinally adjacent each other on the outer surface of one of the front wall and rear wall. As such, both stiffening members flex in the same direction in the opening direction for ease of opening.

[0026] The first and second stiffening members are preferably flexible resilient members that are configured and arranged to flex and bow outwardly in the open configuration when the first flow control device is in the open configuration and the neck is pulled away from the first flow control device.

[0027] The first and second flow control devices are preferably configured and arranged such that the second flow control device only moves to the open configuration when the first flow control device is in the open configuration and the lower section. It may also only move to the open configuration when the neck is pulled away from the second flow control device. Opening the first flow control device pulls the side of the neck inwards and urges the neck into a bowed, open configuration. This in turn urges the second flow control device to flex to the bowed configuration when the lower end is pulled thereby applying tension to the neck and pulling on the second flow control device.

[0028] The first flow control device is preferably biased to the closed configuration.

[0029] The first flow control device preferably comprises a third flexible resilient stiffening member located on the outer surface of the front wall and a fourth flexible resilient stiffening member located on the outer surface of the rear wall, the third and fourth stiffening members are positioned transversely across the discharge channel and arranged such that they flex and bow outwardly away from each to move the first flow control device to the open configuration when their transversely arranged side edges are squeezed inwardly towards each other in the transverse direction. The third and fourth stiffening elements are preferably positioned immediately adjacent the outlet opening.

[0030] The second flow control device preferably comprises a fifth stiffening element arranged longitudinally adjacent the fourth stiffening member extending transversely across the neck, the fourth and fifth stiffening members being foldable relative to each other about a transversely extending fold line defined therebetween. The fifth stiffening element improves the ability of the user to grip and squeeze the second flow control device.

[0031] The second flow control device is preferably biased to the closed configuration. Biasing the second flow control to the closed position means that the second flow control automatically closes when the user releases or at least stops operating the first flow control device, for example by relaxing the pressure applied to the first flow control device and / or by stopping pulling the lower end of the neck. In this way a self-sealing flow control mechanism is provided.

[0032] Preferably at least one of the first and second stiffening members may include an engagement element that longitudinally overlaps the other of the first and second stiffening members and biases the first and second stiffening members to the closed configuration. The engagement element is an integral part of the stiffening member but is not bonded to the neck.

[0033] The first stiffening member preferably includes outer engagement tabs extending longitudinally towards the second stiffening member from an edge of the first stiffening member immediately adjacent the second stiffening member, the outer engagement tabs are arranged towards the transverse outer edges of the first stiffening element and extend over the second stiffening member in an overlapping arrangement, and a first inner engagement tab located transversely inwards of the outer engagement tabs that overlaps and is arranged beneath part of the second stiffening member.

[0034] The second stiffening element preferably includes a second inner engagement tab transversely aligned with the first inner engagement tab of the first stiffening element that extends longitudinally towards the first stiffening member from an edge of the second stiffening member immediately adjacent the first stiffening member, and the second inner engagement tab is arranged above the first inner engagement tab.

[0035] The leading edge of the first inner engagement tab preferably has a convexly curved profile that helps urge the second stiffening element to the curved, bowed configuration. Preferably the first stiffening element is arranged above the second stiffening element along the length of the neck towards the inlet.

[0036] The first flow control device preferably includes first and second stiffening members secured transversely across an outer surface of the neck in a longitudinally adjacent arrangement, the first and second stiffening members are foldable relative to each other about a transversely extending fold line defined between the first and second stiffening members between a folded state corresponding to the closed configuration and an unfolded state corresponding to the open configuration, and the first and second stiffening members include cooperating elements that interact to cause the first and second stiffening members to remain in the intermediate closed configuration when the neck is intermediate unfurled state.

[0037] The cooperating elements may comprise at least one resilient biasing member that biases the second flow control device to the intermediate closed configuration. This arrangement may be applied in embodiments in which the first and second flow control devices are immediately adjacent and those in which the elongate neck must be pulled to open the second flow control device.

[0038] The cooperating elements preferably comprise one or more releasable fastening elements arranged to hold the first flow control device in the closed configuration and to release the first flow control device to move to the open configuration when the lower section of the neck is pulled in a direction away from the first flow control device.

[0039] The ostomy pouch preferably further includes releasable holding means for releasably securing the neck in the folded closed state.

[0040] In another aspect of the invention there is provided a method of draining a collecting device such as an ostomy pouch comprising a fluid tight storage chamber for containing bodily waste matter; an opening in the storage chamber for receiving bodily waste matter; a flexible, elongate neck located at a lower end of the storage chamber, the neck defining a discharge channel having an inlet opening located at a first end in fluid communication with the storage chamber, and an outlet opening located at an opposing second end; a first flow control device located at the outlet end of the neck that is operable to be reconfigured between a closed configuration in which the flow of waste matter through the discharge channel is restricted by the first flow control device and an open configuration in which the first flow control device permits waste matter to flow through the discharge channel, and a second flow control device located along the neck upstream of the first flow control device, the second flow control device being reconfigurable between a closed configuration in which the flow of waste matter through the discharge channel is restricted by the first flow control device and an open configuration in which the second flow control device permits waste matter to flow through the first flow control device. The method comprises unfurling the neck from a folded closed state to an unfurled state; and when the neck is in the unfurled state, operating the first flow control device to reconfigure it to the open configuration, wherein reconfiguring the first flow control device to the open configuration causes the second flow control device to move to the open configuration and allow flow through the discharge channel.

[0041] The method may further comprise the step of operating the first flow control device further comprises pulling the first flow control device to pull the lower end of the neck away from the second flow control device

[0042] The method may further comprise the step of operating unfurling the neck to an intermediate closed state prior to operating the first flow control device to reconfigure it to the open configuration. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0043] The present invention will now be described by way of example only with reference to the following illustrative figures in which: Figure 1 is a rear view of an ostomy pouch according to an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 2 is shows the first flow control device according to an alternative embodiment of the invention; Figure 3 illustrates the overlapping arrangement of the stiffening members of the second flow control device of Figure 1; Figure 4 illustrates a method of using an ostomy pouch according to an embodiment of the invention; and Figure 5 is a front view of an ostomy pouch according to an embodiment of the present invention; and Figure 6 is a rear view of the ostomy pouch of Figure 5; Figure 7 is a rear view of an ostomy pouch according to an embodiment of the present invention; and Figure 8 is a rear view of an ostomy pouch according to a further embodiment of the present invention. DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS

[0044] Referring to Figure 1, there is provided an ostomy pouch 1 formed from two opposing films of flexible impermeable material. The pouch is preferably formed from a plastics material known in the art for forming ostomy pouches and may be a multiple ply film, although it will be appreciated that other suitable materials could be used. The two opposing films define a front wall 2 and a rear wall 4. The front wall 2 and rear wall 4 form the main body 3 of the ostomy pouch 1. The front wall 2 and rear wall 4 are sealed along their common peripheral edges 6 to form a receptacle for receiving liquid and solid waste. The peripheral edges 6 may be sealed by welding such as thermal or RF welding, bonded such as by adhesion, or by any other suitable means.

[0045] A mounting plate or mounting plate 8 is provided for mechanically securing the ostomy pouch 1 to the body of the wearer. The present embodiment relates to a one-piece ostomy system in which the mounting plate 8 is secured to the rear wall 4 of the ostomy pouch 1. It will however be appreciated that the invention is also applicable to a two-piece ostomy system in which the mounting plate is releasably connectable to the collecting bag by a coupling arrangement. The present invention is also applicable to wound bags having a sealing disc in place of a mounting plate. The mounting plate 8 is an adhesive wafer comprising a foam disc and a hydrocolloid skin barrier layer, which are adhered together to form a flexible adhesive pad. The mounting plate 8 may be a flat disc or may include a convex central portion. Where the mounting plate 8 includes a convex central portion it may further include a plastic mounting plate which provides a stiffer substrate to which the foam and hydrocolloid layers conform, enabling the convex profile to be maintained.

[0046] The rear wall 4 of the pouch 1 is sealed to the front face of the mounting plate 8 at a bonding region 14. The term 'front' as used herein refers to a surface which in use faces away from the body of the user, and the term 'rear' refers to a surface which in use faces towards the body of the wearer. The terms 'upper', 'lower', 'top' and 'bottom' as used herein relate to the pouch as oriented on the wearer in use. The mounting plate 8 includes an aperture 10 arranged substantially centrally on the mounting plate 8. The bonding region 14 is annular and surrounds the aperture 10. A corresponding aperture 16 is formed in the rear wall 4 with an edge 18 to which the inner edge of the sealing region 14 extends such that the rear wall 4 is sealed to the mounting plate 8 around the entire periphery of the aperture 16. A region 19 of the mounting plate 8 extends radially inwards from the inner edge of the aperture 18 to the edge of the aperture 10.

[0047] The aperture 10 in the mounting plate 8 defines an opening into the main body 3 of the pouch 1 through which the wearer's stoma is extended in use. The mounting plate 8 surrounds the stoma in use. The hydrocolloid adhesive layer at the rear surface of the mounting plate 8 provides a barrier seal with the wearer's skin extending from the peripheral edge 18 of the mounting plate 8 to the aperture 10. In this way, when the stoma is extended through the aperture 10 in use a barrier seal is created between the mounting plate 8 and the skin of the wearer that is airtight and watertight from the edge of the aperture 10 outwardly, thereby sealing the contents of the pouch 1 from the external environment.

[0048] The mounting plate 8 is arranged at the upper end of the pouch 1 such that when the pouch 1 is arranged vertically in use a significant portion of the volume of the pouch 1 is arranged beneath the opening 10. In use, waste from the stoma passed directly into the volume of the pouch 1 beneath the aperture 10.

[0049] A neck section 20 is formed at the lower end of the pouch 1 that defines a discharge drainage channel 21. The neck 20 is an integrally formed part of the pouch 1. The neck 20 includes a front wall section 22 that is formed from and is an integral part of impermeable film of the front wall 2, and a rear wall section 24 that is formed from and is an integral part of the impermeable film of the rear wall 4. The neck 20 extends downwardly from the lower edge 26 of the main body 3. The front wall section 22 and rear wall section are welded or otherwise bonded and sealed to each other longitudinally along their respective first side edge 28 and second side edge 30 to form the discharge channel 21. The lower edge 32 of the neck 20 is unsealed and open, defining the discharge channel outlet 34. An inlet opening 38 to the discharge channel 21 is defined at the upper end 36 of the discharge channel 21, at the opposing end to the outlet 34, where the discharge channel 21 is open to the waste containing volume of the main body 3 of the pouch 1.

[0050] Figure 1 shows the rear side of the ostomy pouch 1, which faces the wearer in use. A first flow control device 40 is located at the lower end of the neck 20, to control flow though the discharge outlet 34. The first flow control device comprises a front stiffening element 42 secured to the outer surface of the film of the front wall section 22 proximate the discharge outlet 34, and a second stiffening element 44 secured to the outer surface of the film of the rear wall section 24 of the neck 20.

[0051] The front stiffening element 42 may bonded to the front wall section by adhesive or secured by any other suitable means. The front stiffening element 42 is preferable a single elongate plate that extends transversely across the front wall 22 relative to the longitudinal flow axis. The front stiffening plate 42 is formed from a resilient material that is able to flex along its length and to return to its original form. The length of the front stiffening plate 42 is such the front stiffening plate 42 extends substantially across the entire width of the neck 20 with the ends of the front stiffening plate 42 being located inboard of the edge seams defined by the sealed side edges 28,30.

[0052] The rear stiffening element 44 may bonded to the rear wall section 24 by adhesive, welding or secured by any other suitable means. The rear stiffening element 44 preferably comprises a first lower stiffening plate 44a and a first upper stiffening plate 44b that are arranged transversely across the rear wall 24 relative to the longitudinal flow axis of the neck 20. The rear stiffening plates 44a,44b are preferably the same width and length as the front stiffening plate 42 and formed of the same material. The upper and lower rear stiffening plates 44a,44b are arranged parallel to each other in the transverse direction and spaced from each other along the longitudinal axis of the neck 20 with the section of film of the rear wall 24 spanning the gap between the upper and lower rear stiffening plates 44a,44b forming a first fold line 46 that acts as a hinge between the two stiffening plates 44a,44b. The first lower stiffening plate 44a is arranged proximate the opening 34 and is aligned with the front stiffening plate 42.

[0053] The first lower stiffening plate 44a and front stiffening plate 42 are the same shape. That is to say, the first lower stiffening plate 44a and front stiffening plate 42 are substantially rectangular. Each has a substantially quarter circle scalloped cut outs at each upper corner. The shape of the first upper stiffening plate 44b is the same as the first lower stiffening plate 44a, with the first upper stiffening plate 44b being inverted such that it has quarter circle scalloped cut outs at its lower corners. The quarter circle scalloped cut outs of the upper and lower rear stiffening plates 44a,44b are arranged to define in combination a substantially semi-circular scalloped cut out 48 at each side of the rear stiffening element 44 that are configured to receive and locate the fingers of the user to assist the user in gripping the first flow control device 40.

[0054] In the arrangement of Figure 1, the scalloped gripping recesses 48 are centred equally across both stiffening plates 44a, 44b. That is to say, the centre line of the recesses 48 is aligned with the hinge line 46 between the two stiffening plates 44a, 44b. In an alternative arrangement shown in Figure 3, the scalloped recesses 48 are positioned such that it is offset above the hinge line 46. This moves the gripping location away from the outlet 32 and alleviates the risk of the user's fingers contacting the outlet use.

[0055] A second flow control device 50 is located at a longitudinally spaced position above the first flow control device 40 along the neck 20, between the first flow control device 40 and the inlet 38 to the discharge channel 21. Preferably the second flow control device 50 is located at the upper end of the neck 20 proximate the inlet 38. The second flow control device 50 comprises a second lower stiffening plate 52 and a second upper stiffening plate 54 that are elongate and rectangular in shape, and extend transversely across the width of the neck 20 such their ends are located inboard of the edge seams defined by the sealed side edges 28,30. The second lower stiffening plate 52 and a second upper stiffening plate 54 are bonded to the outer surface of the rear wall 24 of the neck 20 by adhesive, welding or any suitable means and are formed of the same or similar material as the first stiffening plates 42,44a,44b. The second lower stiffening plate 52 is bonded to the film of the rear wall 24 by a bonding region 56. The second upper stiffening plate 54 is bonded to the film of the rear wall 24 by a bonding region 58. The bonding regions 56,58 of the lower and upper second stiffening plates 52,54 are longitudinally spaced, with the section of film of the rear wall 24 spanning the gap between the two bonding regions 56,58 defining a second fold line 60.

[0056] A pair of fastening tabs 62 extend outwardly from the side edges 28,30 of the neck 20. The fastening tabs 62 have a width substantially equal to the second upper and lower stiffening plates 52,54 and are longitudinally aligned with the upper stiffening plate 54 and arranged to fold inwardly across the neck 20. The fastening tabs 62 are integrally formed from the plastic films of the front wall section 22 and rear wall section 24, which are bonded together in the same welding process as the edges 28,30 of the neck 20. The fastening tabs 62 each include a hook and eye fastening material such as Velcro ® located on its front surface. A corresponding Velcro ® strip is located on the rear outer surface of the second lower stiffening plate 52.

[0057] The second lower stiffening plate 52, as shown in Figure 2, is substantially rectangular and includes an engagement tab 64 extending from its upper edge 66 in the direction of the second upper stiffening plate 54. The hatched region indicates the bonding region 56 of the second lower stiffening plate 52. An unbonded region 68 extends across the upper part of the second lower stiffening plate 52, which includes the engagement tab 64. The sections of the unbonded region located outwards of the engagement tab 64 define outer engagement sections 69. The upper edge 70 of the bonding region 56 includes a downwardly curved concave central section 72 that is laterally aligned with the engagement tab 64.

[0058] The second upper stiffening plate 54 is substantially rectangular and includes outer engagement tabs 76 and a curved central engagement tab 78. The outer engagement tabs 76 and central engagement tab 76 extend downwardly from the lower edge 80 of the second upper stiffening plate 54 in the direction of the second lower stiffening plate 52. The outer engagement tabs 76 and central engagement tab 78 are located below the bonding region 58 and are not bonded to the real wall section 24. The outer engagement tabs 76 are laterally aligned with the engagement sections 69 of the second lower stiffening plate 52 and the central engagement tab 78 is laterally aligned with the engagement tab 64. The convex curved shape of the central engagement tab 78 corresponds to the concave curved shape of the central section 72 of the upper edge 70 of the bonding region 56.

[0059] The second lower stiffening plate 52 and second upper stiffening plate 54 are bonded to the rear wall section 24 such that the upper edge 66 of the second lower stiffening plate 52 and the lower edge 80 of the second upper stiffening plate 54 are immediately adjacent. The outer engagement tabs 76 overlap and are arranged on top of the corresponding engagement sections 69, meaning the outer engagement tabs 76 are located outwardly of the engagement sections 69 relative to the rear wall section 24. The central engagement tab 78 extends beneath the engagement tab 64 of the second lower stiffening plate 52 such that the engagement tab 64 is arranged on top of the central engagement tab 78. The second lower stiffening plate 52 and second upper stiffening plate 54 are thereby arranged in an interdigitating relationship in which the interlocking elements of second lower stiffening plate 52 and second upper stiffening plate 54 overlie the folding line. The second lower stiffening plate 52 and second upper stiffening plate 54 function as a sprung hinge that pivots about the fold line 60 and biases the second lower stiffening plate 52 and second upper stiffening plate 54. The interlocking relationship of the engagement tabs creates a sprung hinge arrangement that biases the second lower stiffening plate 52 and second upper stiffening plate 54 to a folded configuration and prevents them lying flat and coplanar along the neck 20.

[0060] Figure 4 provides an illustration of the method for discharging and resealing the ostomy pouch 1. During use the neck 20 is held in a folded, fully closed and sealed configuration. Multiple folds along the length of the neck 20 seal the discharge channel 21 and prevent flow through the discharge channel 21 to the outlet 34. The neck 20 is folded upwardly from its lower end in a series of folds to a folded arrangement in which the Velcro fastener 61 on the outer surface of the second lower stiffening plate 52 is forwardly facing. The fastening tabs 62 are folded forwards and inwards such that they locate on top of the Velcro fastener 61 of the second lower stiffening plate 52 and secure thereto. Securement of the fastening tabs 62 the Velcro fastener 61 of the second lower stiffening plate 52 prevents the neck 20 from unfolding and holds it in the folded, sealed configuration. The folded neck 20 may then be folded upwardly and tucked beneath an outer cover of the pouch to a stowed position although this is not essential.

[0061] As shown at step 1 of Figure 3, to empty the pouch 1 the user firstly untucks the neck 20 and unfolds it to the folded, sealed configuration. The user then unfastens the fastening tabs 62 from the Velcro ® fastener 61 of the second lower stiffening plate 52 and moves the tabs 62 outwardly to the open position, as shown at Step 2. At this stage the neck 20 remains folded and the folds of the neck 20 continue to seal the discharge channel 21 and prevent release of the contents of the pouch 1. The neck 20 is then unfolded by the user to the intermediate configuration shown at Step 3. This step involves unfolding the stiffening plates 52,54 of the second flow control device 50, unfolding the first flow control device 40 downwardly and away from the second flow control device 50, and unfolding the first and second stiffening plates 44a,44b of the first flow control device. Once this is done the device is in the fully unfurled intermediate configuration, although in other embodiments upper sections of the neck 20 may remain folded at this stage.

[0062] The second lower stiffening plate 52 and second upper stiffening plate 54 of the second flow control device 50 are unfolded from a fully closed configuration in which they are folded into engagement with each other, to an intermediate closed configuration in which they remain at least partially folded and continue to restrict flow through the discharge channel 21. The second lower stiffening plate 52 and second upper stiffening plate 54 are biased to the intermediate closed configuration. At the same time the front and rear stiffening elements 42,44 of the first flow control device hold the film material of the front and rear wall sections 22,24 closed in flat engagement providing additional flow restriction at the outlet 34.

[0063] At this stage both the first and second flow control devices 40,50 remain closed and flow from the pouch 1 through the discharge channel 21 is restricted by both the first and second flow control devices 40,50. This allows the user to safely aim the outlet 34 into a toilet without risking premature discharge or leakage. When the user is confident that the outlet 34 of the discharge channel 21 is properly directed at the toilet, the user grips the first flow control device 40 with fingers located either side of the first flow control device 40 within the semicircular gripping recesses 48, as shown at Step 4.

[0064] The user applies pressure inwardly to the first flow control device 40, squeezing the side edges of the front and rear stiffening elements 40,42 inwardly towards each other. This causes the front and rear stiffening elements 40,42 to flex and bow outwardly away from each other along their lengths, thereby opening the first flow control device 40. Opening the front and rear stiffening elements 40,42 in this way causes the front and rear walls 22,24 of the neck 20 to bow outwardly away from each other, which opens the discharge channel 21 at the outlet end 34 to a substantially cylindrical form. At this stage the neck 20 is still in the intermediate state and the second flow control device 50 remains in the intermediate closed configuration. Flow to the outlet is still restricted by the second flow control device 50 allowing the user further time for positional adjustment if required.

[0065] To fully open the discharge channel 21 the user continues to squeeze the first flow control device 40 while at the same time pulling downwardly on the first flow control device 40 to pull the lower end of the neck 20 in a direction away from the second flow control device 50 to the fully open unfurled state, as shown at Step 5. The lower end of the neck 20 between the first flow control device 40 and second flow control device 50 is thus pulled taught, applying a force to the second flow control device 50 in the longitudinal direction. The longitudinal force applied to the second flow control device by the film of the rear wall section 24 to which it is bonded causes the second flow control device 50 to pivot to the open configuration in which the second lower stiffening plate 52 and second upper stiffening plate 54 are substantially coplanar. As the second flow control device 50 pivots open, the outer engagement tabs 76 of the second upper stiffening plate 54 apply an inwards force to the underlying engagement sections 69 of the second lower stiffening plate 52. At the same time, the curved central engagement tab 78 of the second upper stiffening plate 54 applies an outward force to the overlying engagement tab 64 of the second lower stiffening plate 52. The interaction between the second upper stiffening plate 54 and second lower stiffening plate 52 as the second flow control device 50 moves to the open configuration, combined with the outwardly bowed form of the neck 20 causes the second upper stiffening plate 54 and second lower stiffening plate 52 to flex and bow outwardly, thereby moving the rear wall section 24 away from the front wall section 22 and opening the upper end of the neck 20.

[0066] At this stage the discharge channel 21 is in the fully open configuration with both the first and second flow control devices 40,50 open. In the fully open configuration, the neck 20 is substantially cylindrical along its entire length. The user can increase the opening of the discharge channel 21 further by applying additional downwards force to the first flow control device 40, causing the second flow control device 50 to bow out further. In this way, the user may control the rate of flow of discharge by varying the force applied and the length to which the neck 20 is extended.

[0067] To return the neck 20 to the fully closed folded configuration following use the user stops squeezing and pulling the first flow control device 40. The second flow control device 50 is biased to the closed configuration and therefore automatically closes once the longitudinal downwards force is removed. In this way the second flow control device 50 is self-sealing. At this point the flow restriction provided by the second flow control device 50 is reintroduced, which advantageously allows the user to clean the outlet, as shown at Step 6, without risk of further discharge while doing so. The neck 20 is then refolded as shown at Step 7 by first folding the first lower stiffening plate 44a and front stiffening plate 42 forwards and upwards such that the front surface of the front stiffening plate 42 is adjacent the front wall section 22 of the neck 20, and the front wall section 22 and front stiffening plate 42 are aligned and adjacent with the first upper stiffening plate 44. The front stiffening plate 42 and the first lower and upper stiffening plates 44a,44b are then folded forwards and upwards again such that the rear outer surface of the first lower stiffening plate 44a is adjacent the front wall section 22 of the neck 20.

[0068] The longitudinal spacing between the upper edge of the first upper stiffening plate 44 and the lower edge of the second lower stiffening plate 52 is preferably the width of a stiffening plate such that following the second fold the front stiffening plate 42 and the first lower and upper stiffening plates 44a,44b fold into this space and are located immediately below the second lower stiffening plate 52. The front stiffening plate 42 and the first lower and upper stiffening plates 44a,44b are then folded forwards and upwards in a third folding step that brings the rear surface of the first upper stiffening plate 44b immediately adjacent with the second lower stiffening plate 52. A fourth forwards and upwards fold longitudinally aligns and stacks the front stiffening plate 42, the first lower and upper stiffening plates 44a,44b, and the second lower stiffening element 52 on top of the second upper stiffening plate 54. In this position the rear surface of the second lower stiffening element 52 faces forwards, exposing the Velcro fastener 61 secured thereto. The fastening tabs 66 are folded inwards and the Velco fasteners of the fastening tabs 66 secure to the Velco fastener 61 of the second lower stiffening element 52 to hold the neck 20 in the folded, sealed configuration, as shown at Step 8.

[0069] In an alternative embodiment as shown at Figure 5 the second flow control device 150 is configured to be user operated, rather than automatically self-sealing. The ostomy pouch 100 of the second embodiment is identical to the ostomy pouch 1 of the first embodiment, except for the second flow control device 150. For ease of reference those features that are common with the first embodiment have been assigned the same reference numerals. The second flow control device 150 comprises a stiffening plate 151 having a slit 153 extending transversely across part of the width of the plate 151 to define a second upper stiffening plate 154 and second lower stiffening plate 152. The slit 153 terminates inboard of the outer side edges of the stiffening plate 151, such that the second upper stiffening plate 154 and second lower stiffening plate 152 are joined at their lower and upper edges respectively by hinge sections 155, with the slit 153 defining a fold line between the second upper stiffening plate 154 and second lower stiffening plate 152. The second upper stiffening plate 154 and second lower stiffening plate 152 are rectangular and of substantially the same width and length as the stiffening plates 42,44a,44b of the first flow control device 40, spanning the width of the neck 20. The second upper stiffening plate 154 and second lower stiffening plate 152 are bonded to the front wall section 22 and the lower edge of the second lower stiffening plate 152 is spaced from the upper edge of the first upper stiffening plate 44b along the length of the neck 20 by a distance approximately equal to the width of the stiffening plates.

[0070] A lower fastener 158 is located on the front surface of the second lower stiffening plate 152. A corresponding upper fastener 160 is located on the front face of the second upper stiffening plate 154. The lower fastener 158 and upper fastener 160 are preferably strips of male / female fasteners such as Velcro ® and are arranged such that when the second upper stiffening plate 154 and second lower stiffening plate 152 are folded forwardly towards each other about the fold line defined by the slit 153 the lower fastener 158 and upper fastener 160 are brought into engagement and secure to each other to hold the second upper stiffening plate 154 and second lower stiffening plate 152 in the folded configuration. It will be appreciated that other suitable fasteners may be used and / or that the multiple smaller fastening elements may be used as an alternative to single fastening strips.

[0071] The Velcro fastener 61 is secured to the rear face of the first upper stiffening plate 44b as shown in Figure 6. To fold the neck 20 the first and second folding steps described above are followed. The front stiffening plate 42 and the first lower and upper stiffening plates 44a,44b are then folded rearwards and upwards behind the second lower stiffening plate 152. The front stiffening plate 42, first lower and upper stiffening plates 44a,44b and the second lower stiffening plate 152 are then folded forwards and upwards, and in doing so the second upper stiffening plate 154 and second lower stiffening plate 152 are folded together to the closed configuration. In this position the Velcro fastener 61 on the rear surface of the first upper stiffening plate 44b is facing forwards and the fastening tabs 62 are folded forwards to secure to the fastener 61, which holds the neck 20 in the closed, folded configuration.

[0072] To empty the pouch 100 the user firstly releases the fastening tabs 62 and is then able to unfold and unfurl the lower part of the neck 20 including the front stiffening plate 42 and first lower and upper stiffening plates 44a,44b that are loosely folded on top of the second upper stiffening plate 154 and second lower stiffening plate 152, which remain fastened together by the lower fasteners 158 and upper fasteners 160. In this configuration the lower part of the neck 20 can be aimed into a toilet by the user, while the second flow control device 150 remains closed and sealed and prevents flow to the outlet 34. The user then squeezes and pulls downwardly on the lower end of the neck 20 while gripping the lower flow control device 40, which pulls second lower stiffening plate 152 downwardly away from the second upper stiffening plate 150, unfastening the Velcro fasteners and unfolding and opening the second flow control device 150. The flexing and bowing of the neck 20 as the first flow control device 40 is squeezed draws in the ends of the second upper stiffening plate 154 and second lower stiffening plate 152 and causes them to flex and bow outwardly, further separating the front and rear film wall sections 22,24 and opening the upper end of the neck 20.

[0073] In alternative embodiment, as shown in Figure 7, the neck 220 is shortened. The first flow control device 240 is located immediately adjacent the second flow control device 250 along the length of the neck 220. The first and second flow control devices 240, 250 are configured and operate in the same manner as the first and second flow control devices 40,50 described above. However, the closer proximity of the first flow control device 240 and second flow control device 250 is such that when the first flow control device 240 is squeezed together by the grip sections 248 and bows outwardly, the tension in the short section of the neck 220 spacing the first flow control device 240 and second flow control device 250 is such that the second flow control device 250 is caused to bow outwardly to the outward configuration as the first flow control device 240 is operated. There is no elongated section of neck between the first and second flow control devices 240,250 as in the previous embodiment, and no requirement to pull downwardly on the first flow control device 240 to open the second flow control device 250.

[0074] To empty the pouch 1 the user unfastens the fastening tabs 262 from the Velcro fastener of the second upper stiffening plate 254. to empty the pouch 1 the user firstly untucks the neck 20 and unfolds it to the folded, sealed configuration. The user then unfastens the fastening tabs 262 from the Velcro ® fastener of the second lower stiffening plate 252 and moves the tabs 262 outwardly to the open position. The neck 220 is then unfolded by the user to the intermediate configuration by unfolding the stiffening plates 252,254 of the second flow control device 250, unfolding the first flow control device 240 downwardly and away from the second flow control device 250, and unfolding the first and second stiffening plates 244a,244b of the first flow control device. Once this is done the device is in the fully unfurled intermediate configuration. In this embodiment the additional step of unfurling and pulling the lower section of the neck 220 is not required due to the relative positioning of the first and second flow control devices 240,250.

[0075] The second lower stiffening plate 252 and second upper stiffening plate 254 of the second flow control device 250 are unfolded from a fully closed configuration in which they are folded into engagement with each other, to an intermediate closed configuration in which they remain at least partially folded and continue to restrict flow through the discharge channel 221. The second lower stiffening plate 252 and second upper stiffening plate 254 are biased to the intermediate closed configuration. At the same time the front and rear stiffening elements 242,244 of the first flow control device hold the film material of the front and rear wall sections 222,224 closed in flat engagement providing additional flow restriction at the outlet 34. At this stage both the first and second flow control devices 240,250 remain closed and flow from the pouch 1 through the discharge channel 221 is restricted by both the first and second flow control devices 240,250.

[0076] To open the discharge channel 221 and begin emptying the user grips the first flow control device 240 at the gripping recesses 248 and squeezes inwardly on the side edges of the front and rear stiffening elements 240,242. The front and rear stiffening elements 240,242 flex and bow outwardly away from each other, which begins to open the first flow control device 240. Initially as the first flow control device 240 begins to open flow through the first flow control device 240 continues to be prevented by the second flow control device 250, which remains closed. Therefore, there is no immediate release and the device can be opened in a more controlled manner. This also enables the user to partially open the first flow control device 240 for cleaning, while the second flow control device 250 keeps the flow channel closed.

[0077] As the front and rear stiffening elements 240,242 bow further outwardly away from each other, increasing outward pressure is applied to the second flow control device 250 by the film tension of the front and rear wall sections 222,224. The second flow control device 250 is thereby caused to pivot open in the manner described above. At this stage both the first and second flow control devices 240,250 are open and the discharge channel 221 is in the fully open configuration. The user can control the flow through the discharge channel 221 by varying the pressure applied to the first flow control device 240.

[0078] In the embodiment of Figure 8 the first and second flow control devices 340,350 are again immediately adjacent. The second flow control device 350 comprises a single piece stiffening plate 351 of the type described above, having a slit 353 extending transversely across part of the width of the plate 351 to define a second upper stiffening plate 354 and second lower stiffening plate 352 joined at their outer ends and separated centrally by the slit 353 which a fold line between the second upper stiffening plate 354 and second lower stiffening plate 352. The adjoined outer parts of second upper stiffening plate 354 and second lower stiffening plate 352 form a living hinge about which the second upper stiffening plate 354 and second lower stiffening plate 352 pivot. The slit 353 reduces the hinge force required to unfold the second flow control device 350. However, in other embodiments the stiffening plate 351 may be continuous, and the slit 353 may be replaced for example with a line of reduced thickness or perforations. The device 1 is operated in substantially the same manner as the embodiment of Figure 7. When the device is in the unfurled, intermediate configuration, inward pressure applied to open the first flow control 340 causes the second flow control device 350 to open due to the film tension of the neck 320 connecting the two flow control devices 340,350.

Claims

1. A collecting device such as an ostomy pouch or wound bag comprising:a fluid tight storage chamber for containing bodily fluids or waste matter;5            an opening in the storage chamber for receiving bodily fluids or waste matter;a flexible, elongate neck located at a lower end of the storage chamber, the neck defining a discharge channel having an inlet opening located at a first end in fluid communication with the storage chamber, and an outlet opening located at an opposing second end, the neck being reconfigurable between a folded state and an10         unfurled state;a first flow control device located at the outlet end of the neck comprising first and second flexible resilient members, the first flow control device being operable to be reconfigured between a closed configuration in which the flow of waste matter through the discharge channel is restricted by the first flow control device15         and an open configuration in which the first flow control device permits wastematter to flow through the discharge channel;a second flow control device located along the neck upstream of the first flow control device comprising third and fourth flexible resilient members, the second flow control device being reconfigurable between a closed configuration in which20 the flow of waste matter through the discharge channel is restricted by the second flow control device and an open configuration in which the second flow control device permits waste matter to flow through the first flow control device;wherein the first and second flow control devices remain in the closed configuration as the neck is reconfigured to the unfurled state and are arranged25        such that the second flow control device is caused to move to the openconfiguration by the operation of the first flow control device to reconfigure the first flow control device to the open configuration.

2. A collecting device according to claim 1 wherein the first flow control device is30        moved to the open configuration when inward pressure is applied to the sides ofthe first and second flexible resilient members of the first flow control device.23 09 243. A collecting device according to claim 1 or 2 wherein the first flow control device is reconfigurable between a closed configuration, an intermediate open configuration and a fully open configuration and the second flow control device remains closed when the first flow control device is reconfigured between the closed configuration5         and the intermediate open configuration and opens when the first flow controldevice is reconfigured from the intermediate open configuration to the fully open configuration.

4. A collecting device according to claim 2 or 3 wherein the second control is located 10 adjacent to the first flow control device along the neck.

5. A collecting device according to any preceding claim wherein the first flow control device is spaced along the neck from the second flow control device by an extendable lower section of the neck, and operating the first flow control device to15         move it to the open configuration includes applying inward pressure to the sides offirst flow control device and pulling the first flow control device away from the second flow control device when lower section of the neck is extended.

6. A collecting device according to claim 5 wherein the closed configuration of the20 second flow control device comprises a fully closed configuration in which the neck is in a folded closed state and the second flow control device is closed, and an intermediate closed configuration in which the neck is unfolded and the second flow control device is closed, and wherein the second flow control device remains in the intermediate closed configuration when the neck is reconfigured to the25         unfurled open state until the lower section of the neck is pulled in a direction awayfrom the second flow control device to move the second flow control device to the open configuration.

7. A collecting device according to any preceding claim wherein the closed30 configuration of the second flow control device comprises a fully closed configuration in which the neck is in a folded closed state and the first flow control23 09 24device is closed, and an intermediate closed configuration in which the neck is unfurled and the second flow control device is closed, and wherein the second flow control device remains in the intermediate closed configuration when the neck is reconfigured to the unfurled open state until the first flow control device is5         operated to move it to the open configuration.

8. A collecting device according to any preceding claim wherein the second flow control device comprises at least one stiffening member secured transversely across an outer surface of the neck that is arranged to flex and bow outwardly relative to10 the discharge channel when the first flow control device is operated to reconfigure it to the open configuration.

9. A collecting device according to any preceding claim wherein the second flow control device comprises at least one stiffening member secured transversely across15         an outer surface of the neck that is arranged to flex and bow outwardly relative tothe discharge channel when the first flow control device is reconfigured to the open configuration is in the open configuration and the lower section of the neck is pulled away from the first flow control device.20   10. A collecting device according to any preceding claim wherein the second flowcontrol device comprises first and second stiffening members secured transversely across an outer surface of the neck in a longitudinally adjacent arrangement, the first and second stiffening members are foldable relative to each other about a transversely extending fold line defined between the first and second stiffening25        members between a folded state corresponding to the closed configuration and anunfolded state corresponding to the open configuration.

11. A collecting device according to claim 10 wherein the neck has a longitudinal axis defined along its length and the first and second stiffening members are arranged30 transversely across the discharge channel perpendicular to the longitudinal axis.23 09 2412. A collecting device according to claim 11 wherein the discharge channel is formed of a front wall and a rear wall that in use face away from and towards the wearer respectively, the front and rear walls are sealed together along their side edges and each have an inner surface within the channel and an external outer surface and the5 first and second flexible resilient members are secured longitudinally adjacent each other on the outer surface of one of the front wall and rear wall.

13. A collecting device according to claim 12 wherein the first and second stiffening resilient members are configured and arranged to flex and bow outwardly in the10 open configuration when the first flow control device is operated to reconfigure it to the open configuration14. A collecting device according to claim 13 wherein the first and second resilient members are configured and arranged to flex and bow outwardly in the open15         configuration when the first flow control device is in the open configuration and theneck is pulled away from the first flow control device.

15. A collecting device according to claim 13 or 14 wherein the first flow control device comprises a third flexible resilient member located on the outer surface of the front20 wall and a fourth flexible resilient member located on the outer surface of the rear wall, the third and fourth resilient members are positioned transversely across the discharge channel and arranged such that they flex and bow outwardly away from each to move the first flow control device to the open configuration when their transversely arranged side edges are squeezed inwardly towards each other in the25 transverse direction.

16. A collecting device according to claim 15 wherein the fourth and fifth flexible resilient members are positioned immediately adjacent the outlet opening.30   17. A collecting device according to claim 16 further comprising a sixth flexible resilientmember longitudinally adjacent the fourth flexible resilient member extending transversely across the neck, the fourth and fifth flexible resilient members being23 09 24foldable relative to each other about a transversely extending fold line defined therebetween.

18. A collecting device according to any one of claims 13 to 17 wherein at least one of5 the third and fourth flexible resilient members includes an engagement element that longitudinally overlaps the other of the third and fourth stiffening members and biases the third and fourth flexible resilient members to the closed configuration.10   19. A collecting device according to claim 18 wherein the third flexible resilient memberincludes outer engagement tabs extending longitudinally towards the fourth flexible resilient member member from an edge of the third stiffening member immediately adjacent the fourth flexible resilient member, the outer engagement tabs are arranged towards the transverse outer edges of the third flexible resilient15        member and extend over the fourth flexible resilient member in an overlappingarrangement, and a first inner engagement tab located transversely inwards of the outer engagement tabs that overlaps and is arranged beneath part of the fourth stiffening member.20   20. A collecting device according to claim 19 wherein the fourth flexible resilientmember t includes a second inner engagement tab transversely aligned with the first inner engagement tab of the first flexible resilient member that extends longitudinally towards the third flexible resilient member from an edge of the fourth flexible resilient member immediately adjacent the third flexible resilient25        member, and the second inner engagement tab is arranged above the first innerengagement tab.

21. A collecting device according to claim 20 wherein the leading edge of the first inner engagement tab has a convexly curved profile.3022. A collecting device according to any preceding claim wherein the second flow control device includes third and fourth flexible resilient members secured23 09 24transversely across an outer surface of the neck in a longitudinally adjacent arrangement, the third and fourth flexible resilient members are foldable relative to each other about a transversely extending fold line defined between the third and fourth flexible resilient members between a folded state corresponding to the5         closed configuration and an unfolded state corresponding to the openconfiguration, and the third and fourth flexible resilient members include cooperating elements that interact to cause the third and fourth flexible resilient members to remain in the intermediate closed configuration when the neck is intermediate unfurled state.io23. A collecting device according to claim 22 wherein the cooperating elements comprise at least one resilient biasing member that biases the second flow control device to the intermediate closed configuration.15   24. A collecting device according to claim 23 wherein the cooperating elementscomprise one or more releasable fastening elements arranged to hold the first flow control device in the closed configuration and to release the first flow control device to move to the open configuration when the lower section of the neck is pulled in a direction away from the first flow control device.2025. A collecting device according to any preceding claim further including releasable holding means for releasably securing the neck in the folded closed state.

26. A method of draining a collecting device such as an ostomy pouch comprising a fluid 25 tight storage chamber for containing bodily waste matter; an opening in the storage chamber for receiving bodily waste matter; a flexible, elongate neck located at a lower end of the storage chamber, the neck defining a discharge channel having an inlet opening located at a first end in fluid communication with the storage chamber, and an outlet opening located at an opposing second end; a first flow30 control device located at the outlet end of the neck that is operable to be reconfigured between a closed configuration in which the flow of waste matter23 09 2425through the discharge channel is restricted by the first flow control device and an open configuration in which the first flow control device permits waste matter to flow through the discharge channel, and a second flow control device located along the neck upstream of the first flow control device, the second flow control device5         being reconfigurable between a closed configuration in which the flow of wastematter through the discharge channel is restricted by the second flow control device and an open configuration in which the second flow control device permits waste matter to flow through the first flow control device;the method comprising:10            unfurling the neck from a folded closed state to an unfurled state; andwhen the neck is in the unfurled state, operating the first flow control device to reconfigure it to the open configuration, wherein reconfiguring the first flow control device to the open configuration causes the second flow control device to move to the open configuration and allow flow through the discharge channel.1527. A method according to claim 26 wherein the step of operating the first flow control device comprises squeezing the first flow control device inwardly.

28. A method according to claim 27 wherein the step of operating the first flow control20 device further comprises pulling the first flow control device to pull lower end of the neck away from the second flow control device29. A method according to claim 27 or 28 further comprising unfurling the neck to an intermediate closed state prior to operating the first flow control device to reconfigure it to the open configuration.

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