Ostomy custom skin barrier method and system

Abstract

A method 30 for fabricating a custom ostomy skin barrier 12 is provided, the method 30 including the steps of providing (32) a scanner 16 with which a user can scan a dorsal peristomal area 18, the scanner 16 configured to generate (34) a data image of the scanned peristomal area 18, and transmitting (36) the data image, by the scanner 16, to a skin barrier fabrication system 22. The method 30 also includes the step of analyzing (38) the received data image to fabricate (40) a skin barrier template with which a custom ostomy skin barrier 12 can be fabricated that fits a stoma 20 in the scanned peristomal area 18.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates generally to ostomy pouch systems, and more particularly to methods and related systems for custom ostomy skin barriers. [Background technology]

[0002] The following discussion of the background art is intended solely to facilitate an understanding of the present invention and is not an acknowledgement or admission that any of the material referred to is or was previously part of the common general knowledge as of the priority date of this application.

[0003] An ostomy is a surgical procedure that creates a temporary or permanent opening in the skin called a stoma. A stoma is a passageway from the internal organs to the outside of the abdomen. Examples include a colostomy, which originates from the large intestine, and an ileostomy, which originates from the small intestine. Stomas are often irregularly shaped and come in a variety of sizes.

[0004] An ostomy pouching system is a prosthetic medical device that provides a means for collecting waste from a surgically bypassed biological system (e.g., colon, ileum, bladder, etc.). Pouching systems typically consist of a collection pouch and an on-skin barrier that is coupled to the stoma itself, the body part that is bypassed to the skin. Pouching systems generally allow the stoma to drain into the sealed collection pouch while preventing contamination of the surrounding skin. These systems are used to maintain independence, allowing the wearer to continue living an unrestricted life.

[0005] Ostomy barriers sit on the skin and separate the ostomy pouch from the body conduit. These skin barriers, also called flanges, wafers, or base plates, are manufactured in different sizes to accommodate specific human anatomy. The internal opening in the skin barrier must be the correct size to accommodate each individual's stoma while protecting the skin from contact with waste. The method for sizing this opening varies depending on the type of wafer / base plate; several pre-cut sizes are available, and some users customize the opening using scissors.

[0006] Ostomy pouch systems generally come in two types: single-piece or two-piece systems. Examples of these systems are shown in Figures 2 and 3. The type of system used generally varies between individuals and is often based on medical reasons, personal preference, and lifestyle. As shown, a single-piece system consists of a skin barrier / wafer and pouch bonded together as a single unit. A two-piece system consists of a separate skin barrier / wafer that can be placed on the skin with a collection pouch that is removable from the skin barrier.

[0007] Single-piece systems generally offer greater simplicity than two-piece systems, but require the entire unit, including the skin barrier, to be replaced when the pouch is replaced. Two-piece systems allow the pouch to be replaced while leaving the barrier / wafer attached to the skin; in this case, the skin barrier / wafer is part of the "flange" unit, and the pouch includes a closure ring that mechanically attaches to a mating piece on the flange. A common attachment mechanism consists of a pressure-fit snap ring.

[0008] Whether using a one-piece or two-piece system, having a properly sized skin barrier is essential to the operation of the pouch system. Figure 1 illustrates the traditional method for changing ostomy pouches, as advocated by medical societies and ostomy associations, such as the North American Ostomy Association. As shown, users typically must measure their stoma and cut a skin barrier template each time they change the pouch. This often results in inadequate skin barrier sizing and fit, which can be detrimental to the proper function of the ostomy pouch system. Over time, weight gain or loss, pregnancy, hernia, aging, and other physical changes can also affect stoma size and, therefore, fit.

[0009] Prior art systems have been developed in an attempt to improve the field of adapting skin barriers to stoma patients. For example, WO 2011 / 123018 A1 describes a method for manufacturing a body-adherent wafer for an ostomy appliance using a laser or water cutter from an image translated into a cutting geometry. While this system directly manufactures a skin barrier for use by a stoma patient, it does not provide a basis for ensuring that the stoma image is accurate unless manufactured by medical personnel, requiring a visit to a medical facility.

[0010] Similarly, EP 1275357 A2, US 2014 / 0236335 A1, and KR 101937997 B1 describe similar methods and systems for manufacturing customized ostomy appliances, which typically require medical imaging and generally involve customized manufacturing of a combined stoma and pouch system. However, none of these prior art systems allows for a simple means by which an ostomate can use conventional sheets of ostomy skin barrier material to facilitate the fabrication of a custom ostomy skin barrier without the assistance of medical personnel.

[0011] In this regard, applicants have identified a need for improved methods for ostomy skin barrier compatibility and ease of fabrication from conventional materials, and the present invention was conceived with this goal in mind. Summary of the Invention [Means for solving the problem]

[0012] According to a first aspect of the present invention, there is provided a method for fabricating a custom ostomy skin barrier, said method comprising: providing a scanner by which a user can scan a dorsal peristomal area, the scanner configured to generate a data image of the scanned peristomal area; transmitting the data image to a skin barrier fabrication system by a scanner; , and analyzing the received data image with a fabrication system to fabricate a skin barrier template from which a custom ostomy skin barrier can be fabricated to fit the stoma within the scanned peristomal area; Includes.

[0013] In one embodiment, the step of providing a scanner includes providing and / or utilizing a downloadable software application configured to adapt a user's mobile device, such as a mobile phone or tablet, to scan the peristomal area and generate and transmit said data image.

[0014] In one embodiment, the step of providing a scanner includes providing a dedicated scanner device for scanning the peristomal area to generate and transmit said data image.

[0015] In one embodiment, the data image includes a depth map showing planar and depth data of the peristomal area, allowing for the creation of a skin barrier template that addresses the planar dimensions and contours found within the peristomal area.

[0016] In one embodiment, the scanning step includes scanning the peristomal area together with a reference token, such as a coin of known dimensions, to provide a scale of size and / or parallax as part of the depth image.

[0017] In one embodiment, the scanner includes first and second cameras for taking separate offset images of the peristomal area to allow for parallax correction and / or editing of the depth map.

[0018] In one embodiment, the scanner is configured to accommodate the angle between the optical axis of the first camera and the optical axis of the second camera to allow for parallax correction and / or editing of the depth map.

[0019] In one embodiment, the scanner includes a rangefinder to provide the distance from the scanner to the peristomal area during scanning, allowing for parallax correction and / or editing of the depth map.

[0020] In one embodiment, the scanner includes an accelerometer, such as an inertial measurement unit (IMU), to capture orientation data as part of data image generation.

[0021] In one embodiment, the step of transmitting the data image includes transmitting via the Internet and / or a suitable telecommunications network.

[0022] In one embodiment, the step of analyzing the data image by the skin barrier fabrication system includes analyzing the relative dimensions between the scanned reference token, such as a coin of known dimensions, to determine the desired dimensions and / or parallax of the skin barrier template.

[0023] In one embodiment, the step of analyzing the data images by the skin barrier fabrication system includes comparing the pixel positions of the stoma (or other landmark pixels) between at least two data images and, if disparity between the images is apparent, applying computer vision depth perception techniques to enable disparity correction and / or editing of the depth map.

[0024] In one embodiment, analyzing the data image with the skin barrier fabrication system includes analyzing orientation data in the data image to enable parallax correction and / or editing of the depth map.

[0025] In one embodiment, the method includes fabricating a skin barrier template.

[0026] In one embodiment, the skin barrier template comprises a skin barrier configured for use with a one-piece or two-piece ostomy pouch system.

[0027] In one embodiment, the skin barrier is made from a hydrocolloid material.

[0028] In one embodiment, the skin barrier template comprises a template, such as a stencil, that a user can use to fabricate their own skin barrier for use with a one-piece or two-piece ostomy pouch system.

[0029] In one embodiment, the skin barrier template includes a device, such as a punch, cutter, or the like, that allows a user to fabricate their own skin barrier for use with a one-piece or two-piece ostomy pouch system.

[0030] In one embodiment, the method includes transmitting the fabricated skin barrier template to a user.

[0031] According to a second aspect of the present invention, there is provided a system for fabricating a custom ostomy skin barrier, the system comprising: a scanner by which a user can scan a dorsal peristomal area, the scanner configured to generate a data image of the scanned peristomal area and transmit the data image to a skin barrier fabrication system; and a skin barrier fabrication system configured to receive and analyze the data image to fabricate a skin barrier template from which a custom ostomy skin barrier can be fabricated that fits the stoma within the scanned peristomal area; Includes.

[0032] In one embodiment, the scanner comprises a user's mobile device, such as a mobile phone or tablet, which is configured to adapt the mobile device to scan the peristomal area using a downloadable software application to generate and transmit the data image.

[0033] In one embodiment, the scanner includes a dedicated scanner device for scanning the peristomal area to generate and transmit said data image.

[0034] In one embodiment, the scanner scans the peristomal area along with a reference token, such as a coin of known dimensions, to provide a scale of size and / or parallax as part of the depth image.

[0035] In one embodiment, the data image includes a depth map showing planar and depth data of the peristomal area, allowing for the creation of a skin barrier template that addresses the planar dimensions and contours found within the peristomal area.

[0036] In one embodiment, the scanner includes first and second cameras for taking separate offset images of the peristomal area to allow for parallax correction and / or editing of the depth map.

[0037] In one embodiment, the scanner is configured to accommodate the angle between the optical axis of the first camera and the optical axis of the second camera to allow for parallax correction and / or editing of the depth map.

[0038] In one embodiment, the scanner includes a rangefinder to provide the distance from the scanner to the peristomal area during scanning, allowing for parallax correction and / or editing of the depth map.

[0039] In one embodiment, the scanner includes an accelerometer, such as an inertial measurement unit (IMU), to capture orientation data as part of data image generation.

[0040] In one embodiment, the scanner transmits the data image via the Internet and / or a suitable telecommunications network.

[0041] In one embodiment, the skin barrier fabrication system is configured to analyze the data image by analyzing the relative dimensions between it and a scanned reference token, such as a coin of known dimensions, to determine the desired dimensions and / or parallax of the skin barrier template.

[0042] In one embodiment, the skin barrier fabrication system is configured to analyze the data images by comparing the pixel position of the stoma (or other landmark pixels) between at least two data images, and if disparity between the images is apparent, apply computer vision depth perception techniques to enable disparity correction and / or editing of the depth map.

[0043] In one embodiment, the skin barrier fabrication system is configured to analyze the data images by analyzing orientation data within the data images to enable parallax correction and / or editing of the depth map.

[0044] In one embodiment, the skin barrier fabrication system is configured to fabricate a skin barrier template.

[0045] In one embodiment, the skin barrier template comprises a skin barrier configured for use with a one-piece or two-piece ostomy pouch system.

[0046] In one embodiment, the skin barrier is made from a hydrocolloid material.

[0047] In one embodiment, the skin barrier template comprises a template, such as a stencil, that a user can use to fabricate their own skin barrier for use with a one-piece or two-piece ostomy pouch system.

[0048] In one embodiment, the skin barrier template includes a device, such as a punch, cutter, or the like, that allows a user to fabricate their own skin barrier for use with a one-piece or two-piece ostomy pouch system.

[0049] According to a further aspect of the present invention there is provided a method for fabricating a custom ostomy skin barrier, said method comprising: providing a downloadable software application configured to adapt a user's mobile device, such as a cell phone or tablet, as a scanner for scanning a dorsal peristomal area, the scanner thereby further configured to generate a data image of the scanned peristomal area; transmitting, by the mobile device, the data image to a skin barrier template fabrication system; analyzing the received data image with the template fabrication system to fabricate a skin barrier template, which allows a user to self-fabricate a custom ostomy skin barrier that fits the stoma within the scanned peristomal area from conventional sheets of skin barrier material; and Sending the fabricated skin barrier template to the user to enable such self-fabrication of the ostomy skin barrier. Includes.

[0050] According to a further aspect of the present invention, there is provided a system for fabricating a custom ostomy skin barrier, the system comprising: a downloadable software application configured to adapt a user's mobile device, such as a cell phone or tablet, as a scanner for scanning a dorsal peristomal area, the scanner further configured to thereby generate a data image of the scanned peristomal area; and The skin barrier production system, which is a. receiving and analyzing the data image to create a skin barrier template whereby a custom ostomy skin barrier that fits the stoma within the scanned peristomal area can be self-fabricated by the user from conventional sheets of skin barrier material; and b. Sending the fabricated skin barrier template to the user to enable self-fabrication of the ostomy skin barrier. It is configured as follows: Includes.

[0051] According to a further aspect of the present invention there is provided a method and associated system for fabricating a custom ostomy skin barrier substantially as described and / or illustrated herein.

[0052] The description is given with reference to the accompanying drawings: [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0053] [Figure 1] 1 is a diagrammatic representation of conventional prior art steps for adapting a skin barrier for an ostomy pouch system. [Figure 2] 1 is a diagrammatic representation of a conventional prior art ostomy pouch system showing a one-piece system and a two-piece system. [Figure 3]1 is a diagrammatic representation of the components of typical one-piece and two-piece ostomy pouch systems. [Figure 4] 1 is a diagrammatic representation of one embodiment of a system for fabricating a custom ostomy skin barrier in accordance with an aspect of the present invention. [Figure 5] 1 is a diagrammatic representation of method steps, represented by step blocks, for fabricating a custom ostomy skin barrier according to an embodiment of the present invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0054] Further features of the present invention will be more fully described in the following description of several non-limiting embodiments thereof. This description is included solely for the purpose of illustrating the invention to those skilled in the art. It should not be construed as a limitation on the broad summary, disclosure, or description of the invention as set forth above.

[0055] In the figures incorporated to illustrate features of an example embodiment or embodiments, like reference numerals are used to identify like parts throughout the figures. Moreover, features, mechanisms, and aspects that are well known and understood in the art will not be described in detail, as such features, mechanisms, and aspects are within the understanding of those skilled in the art.

[0056] Furthermore, the accompanying drawings do not represent mechanical or engineering drawings, but only provide a functional overview of the present invention. As a result, necessary features and practical structural details for various embodiments may not be shown in the drawings, although such structural requirements would be within the understanding of one skilled in the art.

[0057] Broadly, the present invention provides a system 10 and associated method 30 for fabricating a custom ostomy skin barrier 12 for use with a conventional ostomy pouch system 14. In particular, the present invention is designed to improve the fit of the skin barrier for use with such ostomy pouch systems 14.

[0058] Traditionally, ostomy pouch systems require users to measure and cut their own skin barrier each time they change pouches, as shown in Figures 1-3. Typically, this involves measuring the stoma against a rough measurement guide, as shown in Figure 1, and then manually cutting a generic skin barrier template (shown in Figure 2) with the diameter of the circle indicated on it, as per the measurement guide.

[0059] Of course, stomas are rarely perfectly circular, and the better the skin barrier fits over and around the stoma, the better the ostomy pouch system will function and the more positive the user experience will be. Moreover, stomas can change in size and / or shape over time, making such skin barrier attachment a dynamic and ongoing process, typically required daily or similarly.

[0060] Referring now to Figure 4 of the accompanying drawings, there is generally illustrated a system 10 for fabricating a custom ostomy skin barrier 12 for use with a conventional ostomy pouch system 14. System 10 generally includes a scanner 16 and a skin barrier fabrication system 22 for fabricating a skin barrier template, as described in further detail below. In the example, skin barrier fabrication system 22 includes a computer system 22.1 and a skin barrier template manufacturer 22.2, although variations thereon are possible and anticipated. For example, fabrication computer system 22.1 and template manufacturer or fabrication facility 22.2 may be separate, integrated, or similar.

[0061] A scanner 16 is provided with which a user can scan the dorsal peristomal area 18, configured to generate a data image of the scanned peristomal area 18 and transmit the data image to the skin barrier fabrication system. In one embodiment, the scanner 16 includes a user's mobile device, such as a mobile phone or tablet, configured to adapt the mobile device for scanning the peristomal area 18 and generate and transmit the data image using a downloadable software application or "app." For example, in one embodiment, an existing or conventional camera app on the mobile device may be used to scan the peristomal area. In another embodiment, a dedicated app may be provided for scanning using a camera, or the like. Alternatively, or additionally, the scanner 16 may include a dedicated scanner device for scanning the peristomal area 18 and generating and transmitting the data image. For example, a dedicated medical device for use by a physician or specialist.

[0062] In one embodiment, the user scans the peristomal area 18 together with a reference token 26, such as a coin of known dimensions, to provide a dimensional and / or parallax scale as part of the depth map, e.g., the reference token 26 is placed in proximity to the stoma during scanning. In such an example, the skin barrier fabrication system 22 is typically configured to analyze the data image by analyzing the relative dimensions between such scanned reference token 26, such as a coin of known dimensions, to determine the desired dimensions of the skin barrier template.

[0063] For example, in one embodiment, an app that adapts a user's mobile phone to form the scanner 16 may be configured to instruct and / or request the user to place an appropriate reference token 26 of known dimensions in proximity to the peristomal area 18, such as by showing a virtual window or box, or the like, on the camera frame within which the reference token is to be positioned. The app may also be configured to facilitate printing of a reference token 26, e.g., an optical recognition pattern of known, predetermined size, whereby relative dimensions can be obtained after scanning, for inclusion by the user, such as as part of the scanning process, to allow for parallax correction and / or editing of a depth map, or the like.

[0064] In a typical embodiment, the data image generated by the scanner includes a depth map showing planar and depth data of the peristomal region 18, enabling the creation of a skin barrier template that accounts for the planar dimensions and contours found within the peristomal region 18, i.e., contours, elevation differences, etc.

[0065] In one embodiment, scanner 16 may include first and second cameras for taking separate, offset images of peristomal area 18, allowing for parallax correction and / or editing of the depth map. For example, modern mobile phones often include two or more cameras, which can be used to scan and generate a depth map. In such an embodiment, scanner 16 may be configured to account for the angle between the optical axis of the first camera and the optical axis of the second camera, allowing for parallax correction and / or editing of the depth map.

[0066] In another embodiment, the scanner 16 may include a rangefinder, such as a lidar device, to provide the distance from the scanner 16 to the peristomal region 18 during the scan, allowing for parallax correction and / or editing of the depth map. In one embodiment, the scanner 16 may also include an accelerometer, such as an inertial measurement unit (IMU), to capture orientation data as part of data image generation during the scan. Such orientation data may be used in parallax correction and / or editing of the depth map.

[0067] In one embodiment, the scanner 16 typically transmits the data images via the internet and / or a suitable telecommunications network 24. The skin barrier fabrication system 22 is generally configured to receive and analyze the data images from the scanner 16 to fabricate a skin barrier template from which a custom ostomy skin barrier 12 can be fabricated that fits the stoma 20 within the scanned peristomal area 18.

[0068] In one embodiment, the skin barrier fabrication system 20 is configured to analyze the data images by comparing pixel locations of the stoma (or other landmark pixels, such as skin blemishes or blemishes, umbilicus, or the like) between at least two data images, and if disparity between the images is apparent, apply computer vision depth perception techniques to enable disparity correction and / or editing of the depth map. Such techniques are within the understanding of those skilled in the art and will not be described in detail herein.

[0069] In an embodiment in which a scanner provides orientation data, the skin barrier fabrication system is typically configured to analyze the data image by analyzing such orientation data in the data image to enable parallax correction and / or editing of the depth map.

[0070] In one embodiment, the skin barrier fabrication system 22 is configured to fabricate a skin barrier template, which may generally include the skin barrier 12, a stencil or the like with which a user can fabricate a skin barrier for use with a one-piece or two-piece ostomy pouch system from a conventional sheet of skin barrier material, or the template may include a device, such as a punch, cutter, or the like, with which a user can fabricate a skin barrier.

[0071] For example, the skin barrier fabrication system 22 may directly fabricate the skin barrier 12, typically from a hydrocolloid material, that includes an opening therein that fits the scanned stoma 20, or a template stencil that fits the scanned stoma 20. Such a stencil may allow a user to trace or cut an opening in a conventional sheet of skin barrier material that fits the scanned stoma 20. In yet a further embodiment, the skin barrier fabrication system 22 may fabricate a device, such as a perforator, that can be used to punch a hole in the material of a conventional skin barrier sheet, the opening precisely matching the scanned stoma. In a further example, the skin barrier template may also include an electronic file that can be printed by the end user, such that such a printout represents a template for fabricating a custom ostomy skin barrier by cutting it from a conventional sheet of skin barrier material.

[0072] In this way, the skin barrier 12 can be fabricated with an opening therein that fits snugly with the scanned stoma, thereby allowing for a tighter, more precisely fitting skin barrier.

[0073] Referring now to Figure 5 of the accompanying drawings, those skilled in the art should appreciate that the present invention also provides a related method 30 for fabricating a custom ostomy skin barrier 12. Such method 30 generally includes providing (32) a scanner 16 by which a user can scan a dorsal peristomal area 18, the scanner 16 being configured to generate (34) a data image of the scanned peristomal area 18, and transmitting (36) the data image by the scanner 16 to a skin barrier fabrication system 22. Method 30 typically also includes analyzing (38) the received data image by the fabrication system 22 to fabricate (40) a skin barrier template by which a custom ostomy skin barrier 12 can be fabricated that fits the stoma in the scanned peristomal area. In one embodiment, method 30 may also include fabricating (42) the skin barrier 12 and transmitting (44) the fabricated skin barrier template to a user.

[0074] For example, method 30 may facilitate an on-demand and / or prescription service for providing a custom ostomy skin barrier. Such a service may include a user being able to scan their stoma to receive a custom order for a skin barrier 12 and / or template that is specifically sized, shaped, and / or dimensioned to fit the user's stoma and peristomal area, facilitating a secure fit and seal of the ostomy pouch system. The present invention may facilitate fabrication of a custom skin barrier as part of a one-piece or two-piece ostomy pouch system, as needed. Advantageously, due to stomas changing shape and / or size over time, the present invention allows users to obtain an updated, fitted skin barrier and / or template on demand.

[0075] In the example embodiments, well-known processes, well-known device structures, and well-known techniques are not described in detail, as such are readily understood by those skilled in the art. Optional embodiments of the present invention may also be considered to consist broadly of the components, elements, and features referenced or shown herein, individually or collectively, in any or all combinations of two or more of the components, elements, or features. When specific integers that have known equivalents in the art to which the present invention pertains are referred to herein, such known equivalents are considered to be incorporated herein as if individually set forth.

[0076] References to "one example" or "one example" of the invention, or similar illustrative language (e.g., "such as") herein, should be understood not to be made in an exclusive sense. Various substantial and particularly practical and useful exemplary embodiments of the claimed subject matter are described herein by text and / or illustrations for carrying out the claimed subject matter. Accordingly, one example may illustrate certain aspects of the invention, while other aspects are exemplified by a different example. These examples are intended to aid those skilled in the art in practicing the invention and are not intended to limit the overall scope of the invention in any way, unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.

[0077] Variations (e.g., modifications and / or enhancements) of one or more of the embodiments described herein will become apparent to those skilled in the art upon reading this application. The inventor(s) anticipate that those skilled in the art will adopt such variations as appropriate, and the inventor(s) intend for the claimed subject matter to be practiced in ways other than as specifically described herein.

[0078] The use of the terms "a," "an," "said," "the," and / or similar references in the context of describing various embodiments (particularly in the context of claimed subject matter) should be construed to cover both the singular and the plural, unless otherwise indicated herein or clearly contradicted by context. The terms "comprise," "have," "contain," and "include" should be construed as open-ended terms (i.e., meaning "including, but not limited to"), unless otherwise noted. As used herein, the term "and / or" includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items. Nothing herein should be construed as indicating any non-claimed subject matter as essential to the practice of the claimed subject matter.

[0079] Any method steps, processes, and operations described herein should not be construed as necessarily requiring their execution in the particular order described or illustrated, unless specifically identified as an order of execution. It should also be understood that additional or alternative steps may be employed.

Claims

1. providing a downloadable software application configured to adapt a user's mobile device, such as a mobile phone or tablet, as a scanner for scanning a dorsal peristomal area, the scanner thereby further configured to generate a data image of the scanned peristomal area; transmitting, by the mobile device, the data image to a skin barrier template fabrication system; analyzing the received data image to fabricate, by the template fabrication system, a skin barrier template by which a custom ostomy skin barrier that fits the stoma in the scanned peristomal area can be self-fabricated by the user from conventional sheets of skin barrier material; transmitting the fabricated skin barrier template to the user to enable such self-fabrication of an ostomy skin barrier; 1. A method for fabricating a custom ostomy skin barrier, comprising:

2. 2. The method of claim 1, wherein the step of scanning includes scanning the peristomal area together with a reference token to provide a dimensional and / or parallax scale as part of the data image, and the step of analyzing the data image with the skin barrier fabrication system further includes analyzing relative dimensions between the scanned reference tokens to determine desired dimensions and / or parallax of the skin barrier template.

3. 3. The method of claim 1, wherein the step of fabricating the skin barrier template with the template fabrication system includes fabricating a template selectable from the group consisting of a stencil that enables a user to trace and cut an opening in a conventional sheet of skin barrier material, and a cutting device configured to cut a custom skin barrier from a conventional sheet of skin barrier material.

4. 3. The method of claim 1, wherein the step of fabricating the skin barrier template with the template fabrication system includes creating an electronic file that is printable by the end user so that such printout provides a stencil for fabricating the custom ostomy skin barrier by tracing and cutting openings in a conventional sheet of skin barrier material.

5. 5. The method of claim 1, wherein the step of providing the downloadable software application configured to adapt a user's mobile device as a scanner includes the application configuring first and second cameras to capture separate offset images of the peristomal area, allowing for parallax correction and / or editing of a depth map representing planar and depth data of the peristomal area to enable creation of a skin barrier template that corresponds to planar dimensions and contours found within the peristomal area.

6. 6. The method of claim 5, wherein the scanner is configured to account for an angle between an optical axis of the first camera and an optical axis of the second camera to enable parallax correction and / or editing of the depth map.

7. 6. The method of claim 5, wherein the scanner includes a rangefinder to provide a distance from the scanner to the peristomal area during scanning, allowing parallax correction and / or editing of the depth map.

8. A method according to any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein the step of analysing the data images by the skin barrier fabrication system comprises comparing pixel positions of the stoma (or other landmark pixels) between at least two data images and, if parallax between the images is apparent, applying computer vision depth perception techniques to enable parallax correction and / or editing of the depth map.

9. 9. A method according to any preceding claim, wherein the scanner includes an accelerometer, such as an inertial measurement unit (IMU), to capture orientation data as part of generating the data image, and wherein the step of analysing the data image by the skin barrier fabrication system includes analysing such orientation data in the data image to enable parallax correction and / or editing of the depth map.

10. a downloadable software application configured to adapt a user's mobile device, such as a mobile phone or tablet, as a scanner for scanning a dorsal peristomal area, the scanner thereby further configured to generate a data image of the scanned peristomal area; and A skin barrier fabrication system, comprising: receiving and analyzing the data image to create a skin barrier template by which a custom ostomy skin barrier that fits the stoma in the scanned peristomal area can be self-fabricated by the user from conventional sheets of skin barrier material; and b. transmitting the fabricated skin barrier template to the user to enable such self-fabrication of an ostomy skin barrier. a skin barrier template fabrication system configured to 1. A system for fabricating a custom ostomy skin barrier, comprising:

11. 11. The system of claim 10, wherein the scanner is configured to scan the peristomal area together with a reference token, such as a coin of known dimensions, to provide a scale of dimension and / or parallax as part of the data image, and the skin barrier fabrication system is configured to analyze the data image by analyzing the relative dimensions of the scanned reference token to determine the desired dimension and / or parallax of the skin barrier template.

12. 12. The system of claim 10 or claim 11, wherein the skin barrier template produced by the template production system includes a template selectable from the group consisting of a stencil that enables a user to trace and cut openings in a conventional sheet of skin barrier material, a cutting device configured to cut a custom skin barrier from a conventional sheet of skin barrier material, and an electronic file that can be printed by the end user so that such printout provides a template for producing the custom ostomy skin barrier by tracing and cutting openings in a conventional sheet of skin barrier material.

13. 13. The system of any of claims 10 to 12, wherein the application adapting the mobile device as a scanner is configured to configure first and second cameras of the device to capture separate offset images of the peristomal area, and to enable parallax correction and / or editing of a depth map representing planar and depth data of the peristomal area to enable creation of a skin barrier template that corresponds to planar dimensions and contours found within the peristomal area.

14. 14. The system of claim 13, wherein the scanner is configured to account for an angle between the optical axis of the first camera and the optical axis of the second camera to enable parallax correction and / or editing of the depth map, and the skin barrier fabrication system is further configured to analyze the data images by comparing pixel positions of a stoma (or other landmark pixels) between at least two data images and, if parallax is found between the images, apply computer vision depth perception techniques to enable parallax correction and / or editing of the depth map.

15. 15. The system of any of claims 10 to 14, wherein the scanner includes a rangefinder to provide a distance from the scanner to the peristomal area during scanning, allowing for parallax correction and / or editing of a depth map showing planar and depth data of the peristomal area to allow for creation of a skin barrier template that corresponds to the planar dimensions and contours found within the peristomal area.

16. 16. The system of any of claims 10 to 15, wherein the scanner includes an accelerometer, such as an inertial measurement unit (IMU), to capture orientation data as part of generating the data image, and wherein the skin barrier fabrication system is configured to analyze the data image by analyzing the orientation data in the data image and enable parallax correction and / or editing of the depth map indicative of planar and depth data of the peristomal area to enable fabrication of a skin barrier template that corresponds to the planar dimensions and contours found within the peristomal area.

Images