Air channels for negative pressure wound dressings

Abstract

An air passage for a negative pressure wound dressing, the air passage comprising a first strip material having a first surface having at least one groove, the air passage further comprising a film disposed to cover the first surface of the first strip material and bonded to the first strip material around the longitudinal edge of the first strip material, the at least one groove being provided with at least one projection for forming at least two channels between the first strip and the film, the air passage further comprising a second strip material having a first surface having at least one groove provided with at least one projection, the first surface of the second strip material being disposed to cover a film and bonded to the film around the longitudinal edge of the second strip material to form at least two channels between the second strip and the film.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to an air passage for a wound dressing. In particular, the present invention relates to an air passage for a negative pressure wound dressing.

Background Art

[0002] Wound dressings are well-known and are generally suitable for the treatment of various wounds, including chronic and acute wound types such as infected wounds, venous ulcers, diabetic ulcers, burns, surgical wounds, etc.

[0003] Negative pressure is used for the treatment of a wide range of chronic and acute wounds. Negative pressure can facilitate wound healing through many mechanisms, such as removal of excessive exudate, reduction of edema around the wound, and increase in perfusion. The prognosis of the wound can be improved by combining with the physical force of drawing in the wound edge by negative pressure. Existing wound dressing systems usually rely on an air passage for drawing air from the wound site through a pump.

[0004] Existing wound dressing systems often include rigid dressings and connectors, negatively impacting the system's practicality and user comfort. In particular, existing systems utilize air channels formed from hollow tubes made of rigid plastic. However, this configuration is quite uncomfortable for patients when they lie on the tubes. Conversely, hollow tubes made of relatively soft plastic are easily compressed when a patient lies on them. When the tube is compressed, the airflow through the air channel is significantly or completely blocked, potentially hindering or even obstructing wound healing. To overcome this, some systems utilize spacers. Spacers typically have a three-dimensional structure to assist in fluid wicking or negative pressure transmission. Traditionally, spacers have been selected for their ability to drain wound exudate away from the wound and to transmit negative pressure and / or aerated air to the wound. Despite the presence of spacer material, known air passages with spacer material collapse unfavorably under the application of negative pressure (typical pressure of 40-150 mmHg used in negative pressure wound treatment). In such cases, the air passage becomes blocked, and the airflow from the wound is obstructed. To prevent known air passages with spacer material from collapsing under negative pressure, and to maintain a state where the air passage remains open and negative pressure can communicate with the wound, it is common to use several layers of spacer fabric. However, as a result, the air passage often has spacer fabric that is several millimeters, and sometimes as thick as 1 cm. Such air passages can be uncomfortable for the patient, especially when the air passage is in contact with and rubbed against the patient's skin. This can lead to pressure ulcers and other complications that may occur due to the wound dressing system being pressed against the patient's skin.

[0005] Such air passages with the aforementioned spacer material are relatively rigid and inflexible, and if they are close to a wound, they may adversely affect the wound healing process. Patient movement may cause the air passage to bend and twist, or apply pressure to the air passage that can significantly or completely block the airflow through it, potentially causing occlusion. This may reduce or eliminate the transmission of negative pressure to the wound, potentially leading to the accumulation of excessive wound exudate at the wound site, and / or adversely affect wound healing, i.e., the wound prognosis.

[0006] Furthermore, many different types of wound dressings are known for assisting negative pressure wound dressing systems. These different types of wound dressings include many different types of materials and layers, such as gauze, pads, foam pads, and multilayer wound dressings. However, in any case, the dressing requires a suction port, usually located in the backing layer of the dressing, to provide a connection to an air passage for transmitting negative pressure from a pump to the wound. The suction port is usually formed integrally with the wound dressing. Thus, the location of the port determines the position and orientation of the air passage when it is attached to the port. This often means that the air passage is oriented in a position that is disadvantageous to the patient, for example, in a position where the air passage is easily pressed against the patient's skin, or in a position where the air passage is easily obstructed by the patient leaning on it.

[0007] Furthermore, the rigidity of the suction port, which is located close to the wound, can negatively affect the healing process. When the patient moves or pressure is applied to the wound dressing, the healing wound may come into contact with the inflexible suction port of the dressing. Such forces can disrupt the wound bed and damage the wound. This can potentially lead to delayed wound healing and discomfort for the patient.

[0008] An object of the embodiments of the present invention is to overcome or mitigate the above-mentioned problems at least partially, and / or to provide improved air passages for wound dressings. [Overview of the project]

[0009] The present invention relates to an air channel for a negative pressure wound dressing. The air channel may comprise a strip material having a first surface having at least one groove. The air channel may comprise a cover, such as a film, which is disposed to cover the first surface of the strip material. The cover, such as a film, may be adhered to the strip material around the longitudinal edges of the strip material. At least one groove may be provided with at least one projection. At least one projection may form at least two channels between the strip and the film.

[0010] According to a broad aspect of the present invention, an air channel for a negative pressure wound dressing is provided, the air channel comprising a strip material having a first surface having at least one groove, and a film disposed to cover the first surface of the strip material and bonded to the strip material around the longitudinal edge of the strip material to form at least one channel between the strip and the film.

[0011] Advantageously, the present invention provides an air passage that benefits from the formation of at least one channel provided by at least one groove in a strip, which allows air to pass away from the wound (for example, when used as part of a negative pressure wound dressing). Thus, the air passage can be used to transmit negative pressure to the wound to facilitate wound healing.

[0012] Furthermore, the present invention benefits from at least one channel formed by bonding a film to a strip material. In comparison, arrangements disclosed in the prior art typically require at least a spacer material and two film layers to form an air passage. In the prior art arrangement, the two film layers must be carefully positioned over a spacer material that must be carefully positioned in the center between the two film layers, and bonding the longitudinal edges of the two film layers together may result in neither film layer adhering to the spacer material, potentially negatively impacting the performance of the air passage. Therefore, the present invention provides an air passage formed from fewer components than the prior art. Also, since the present invention does not require a separate spacer material or the like to secure the air passage, the manufacturing of the air passage of the present invention is simpler than the manufacturing of the air passage of the prior art. Thus, the present invention is manufactured from fewer components and does not require the precise positioning of components before bonding the film layers, as is the case with the air passage of the prior art. In this way, the manufacturing of the present invention is easier and has fewer drawbacks than the manufacturing of the air passage of the prior art.

[0013] Furthermore, during use, air passages of the prior art, particularly those formed using spacer materials, can be folded and compressed on themselves, for example, by the movement of the user, for example, by the user lying on the air passage. For example, with the arrangement of the prior art air passage as described above, the prior art air passage is prone to twisting, compressing the two layers of waterproofing material together, and consequently compressing the spacer material. Disadvantageously, this obstructs or at least significantly reduces the flow of fluid (e.g., air) along the air passage, thus significantly reducing its ability to transmit negative pressure to the wound. Advantageously, the present invention is not plagued by the same drawbacks. Providing at least one channel formed between the strip and the film means that even if the air passage of the present invention is folded and / or compressed by the user (or other means), there is no compression of the film into the at least one channel such that the passage of fluid along the channel is prevented or at least significantly reduced, and therefore the film does not obstruct the air passage of the present invention from transmitting negative pressure to the wound.

[0014] Furthermore, the air passage of the present invention prevents, or at least reduces, resonance in the air passage as the fluid passes along it.

[0015] At least one groove may be provided with at least one projection for forming at least two channels between the strip and the film.

[0016] According to a first aspect of the present invention, an air passage for a negative pressure wound dressing is provided, the air passage comprising a strip material having a first surface having at least one groove, the air passage further comprising a film disposed to cover the first surface of the strip and adhered to the strip material around the longitudinal edge of the strip material, the at least one groove being provided with at least one projection for forming at least two channels between the strip and the film.

[0017] At least one groove may be provided with multiple protrusions such that multiple channels are provided between the strip and the film.

[0018] Multiple channels have the advantage of increasing the number of possible paths for fluid flow along the airway. This means that even if the airway bends, twists, or kinks, at least some channels remain at least partially open to the fluid flow, so the fluid flow along the airway may not be completely blocked. Therefore, the fluid flow along the airway of the present invention is maintained even if the airway bends, twists, or kinks, and is more reliable compared to airways of the prior art.

[0019] The groove may be a space cut into the first surface of the strip material.

[0020] At least one projection may be formed integrally with the strip material. At least one projection may be formed integrally with the strip material, and at least one projection may extend from a groove or the base of each groove.

[0021] The multiple protrusions may include any number of protrusions, for example, about 5, about 10, about 15, about 20, about 25, about 30, about 35, about 40, about 45, about 50, about 55, about 60, about 65, about 70, about 75, about 80, about 85, about 90, about 95, about 100, about 110, about 120, about 130, about 140, about 150, about 160, about 170, about 180, about 190, about 200, about 210, about 220, about 230, about 240, or about 250 protrusions.

[0022] The multiple protrusions may include at least approximately 5, 10, 15, 20, 25, 30, 35, 40, 45, 50, 55, 60, 65, 70, 75, 80, 85, 90, 95, 100, 110, 120, 130, 140, 150, 160, 170, 180, 190, 200, 210, 220, 230, 240, or at least approximately 250 protrusions.

[0023] The multiple protrusions may include approximately 5 or fewer, approximately 10 or fewer, approximately 15 or fewer, approximately 20 or fewer, approximately 25 or fewer, approximately 30 or fewer, approximately 35 or fewer, approximately 40 or fewer, approximately 45 or fewer, approximately 50 or fewer, approximately 55 or fewer, approximately 60 or fewer, approximately 65 or fewer, approximately 70 or fewer, approximately 75 or fewer, approximately 80 or fewer, approximately 85 or fewer, approximately 90 or fewer, approximately 95 or fewer, approximately 100 or fewer, approximately 110 or fewer, approximately 120 or fewer, approximately 130 or fewer, approximately 140 or fewer, approximately 150 or fewer, approximately 160 or fewer, approximately 170 or fewer, approximately 180 or fewer, approximately 190 or fewer, approximately 200 or fewer, approximately 210 or fewer, approximately 220 or fewer, approximately 230 or fewer, approximately 240 or fewer, or approximately 250 or fewer protrusions.

[0024] At least some of the channels can communicate with each other via fluid.

[0025] Advantageously, this means that the overall channel volume of the air passage and the number of paths through which fluid can flow along the air passage increase, and as a result, the flow of fluid to and / or from the wound site increases. In some embodiments, all the channels are in fluid communication with each other, further enhancing the aforementioned advantages.

[0026] The plurality of channels may form a network of interconnected channels.

[0027] The air passage may comprise a first end having an orifice operable as an inlet or outlet for fluid flow. The air passage may comprise a second end having an orifice operable as an inlet or outlet for fluid flow. The first end may have an orifice operable as an inlet or outlet for fluid flow, and the second end may have an orifice operable as the other of an inlet or outlet for fluid flow.

[0028] At least one, preferably all, of the channels may be in fluid communication with the orifice of the first end and / or the orifice of the second end.

[0029] The orifice of the first end may be in fluid communication with the orifice of the second end. The orifice of the first end may be in fluid communication with the orifice of the second end via at least two channels. Advantageously, this enables the air passage of the present invention to comprise at least one suitably configured connector at the first end and / or the second end.

[0030] The at least one groove may be a plurality of grooves.

[0031] Multiple grooves can be any number of grooves, for example, approximately 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 25, 30, 35, 40, 45, 50, 55, or 60. It may include approximately 65, 70, 75, 80, 85, 90, 95, 100, 110, 120, 130, 140, 150, 160, 170, 180, 190, 200, 210, 220, 230, 240, or 250 grooves.

[0032] Multiple grooves are at least approximately 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 25, 30, 35, 40, 45, 50, 55, 60, and 65. It may include approximately 70, 75, 80, 85, 90, 95, 100, 110, 120, 130, 140, 150, 160, 170, 180, 190, 200, 210, 220, 230, 240, or at least approximately 250 grooves.

[0033] The plurality of grooves is about 2 or less, about 3 or less, about 4 or less, about 5 or less, about 6 or less, about 7 or less, about 8 or less, about 9 or less, about 10 or less, about 11 or less, about 12 or less, about 13 or less, about 14 or less, about 15 Below, about 16 or less, about 17 or less, about 18 or less, about 19 or less, about 20 or less, about 25 or less, about 30 or less, about 35 or less, about 40 or less, about 45 or less, about 50 or less, about 55 or less, about 60 or less, It may contain approximately 65 or fewer grooves, approximately 70 or fewer grooves, approximately 75 or fewer grooves, approximately 80 or fewer grooves, approximately 85 or fewer grooves, approximately 90 or fewer grooves, approximately 95 or fewer grooves, approximately 100 or fewer grooves, approximately 110 or fewer grooves, approximately 120 or fewer grooves, approximately 130 or fewer grooves, approximately 140 or fewer grooves, approximately 150 or fewer grooves, approximately 160 or fewer grooves, approximately 170 or fewer grooves, approximately 180 or fewer grooves, approximately 190 or fewer grooves, approximately 200 or fewer grooves, approximately 210 or fewer grooves, approximately 220 or fewer grooves, approximately 230 or fewer grooves, approximately 240 or fewer grooves, or approximately 250 or fewer grooves.

[0034] In embodiments including multiple grooves, the passage of air along the airway away from the wound may be more efficient than in embodiments including a single groove. However, this does not mean that the present invention, including a single groove, is not advantageous compared to the airway of the prior art.

[0035] At least two channels can be any number of channels, for example, about 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 25, 30, 35, 40, 45, 50, 55, It may include approximately 60, 65, 70, 75, 80, 85, 90, 95, 100, 110, 120, 130, 140, 150, 160, 170, 180, 190, 200, 210, 220, 230, 240, or 250 channels.

[0036] At least two channels have at least approximately 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 25, 30, 35, 40, 45, 50, 55, 60, and 65 It may contain approximately 70, 75, 80, 85, 90, 95, 100, 110, 120, 130, 140, 150, 160, 170, 180, 190, 200, 210, 220, 230, 240, or at least approximately 250 channels.

[0037] At least two channels have less than or equal to about 2, less than or equal to about 3, less than or equal to about 4, less than or equal to about 5, less than or equal to about 6, less than or equal to about 7, less than or equal to about 8, less than or equal to about 9, less than or equal to about 10, less than or equal to about 11, less than or equal to about 12, less than or equal to about 13, less than or equal to about 14 , about 15 or less, about 16 or less, about 17 or less, about 18 or less, about 19 or less, about 20 or less, about 25 or less, about 30 or less, about 35 or less, about 40 or less, about 45 or less, about 50 or less, about 55 or less, about 60 or less The following may include approximately 65 or fewer channels, approximately 70 or fewer channels, approximately 75 or fewer channels, approximately 80 or fewer channels, approximately 85 or fewer channels, approximately 90 or fewer channels, approximately 95 or fewer channels, approximately 100 or fewer channels, approximately 110 or fewer channels, approximately 120 or fewer channels, approximately 130 or fewer channels, approximately 140 or fewer channels, approximately 150 or fewer channels, approximately 160 or fewer channels, approximately 170 or fewer channels, approximately 180 or fewer channels, approximately 190 or fewer channels, approximately 200 or fewer channels, approximately 210 or fewer channels, approximately 220 or fewer channels, approximately 230 or fewer channels, approximately 240 or fewer channels, or approximately 250 or fewer channels.

[0038] In embodiments including multiple channels, the passage of air along the airway away from the wound may be more efficient than in embodiments including a single channel. However, this does not mean that the present invention, including a single channel, is not advantageous compared to the prior art airway.

[0039] At least one groove can be formed by heat pressing, laser cutting, laser engraving, or thermoforming. Benefitingly, such methods for forming at least one groove are reliable and cost-effective.

[0040] In embodiments including multiple grooves, the grooves may be arranged in an interlaced pattern. "Interlaced" means that each groove intersects at least one other groove. Beneficially, compared to, for example, spacers or multiple grooves arranged parallel to each other, the interlaced groove pattern is less susceptible to disruption by bending / folding.

[0041] The groove intersecting pattern may include multiple cross-intersecting grooves, meaning that each groove significantly intersects at least one other groove. Advantageously, a groove intersecting pattern including, for example, multiple cross-intersecting grooves increases the overall groove volume of the air passage. Advantageously, this means that a larger volume of fluid (e.g., air) can be transmitted along the air passage in any given time compared to prior art air passages that do not include multiple grooves, particularly groove intersecting patterns. Further advantageously, the groove intersecting pattern maintains a favorable flow rate of fluid along the air passage while the air passage is compressed or under load. Thus, for example, when used to transmit negative pressure to a wound, the air passage of the present invention maintains negative pressure at the wound even when the air passage is folded and / or compressed by the user.

[0042] Multiple grooves may be arranged as a zigzag pattern. This means that each groove is arranged in a zigzag pattern and no groove intersects with another groove.

[0043] The strip material may have a second surface that forms an opposing surface opposite to the first surface. The second surface does not have to include grooves. The second surface may be substantially flat.

[0044] At least one protrusion may be formed on a non-groove portion of the first surface of the strip material.

[0045] The projections or each projection may extend from the groove or the base of each groove.

[0046] The projections, or each projection, may extend to a height equal to, or at least substantially equal to, the height of the strip material.

[0047] When the film is bonded to the first surface of the strip material, the protrusions or each protrusion may be in contact with the film. The film may be bonded to one or more of at least one of the protrusions. For example, the protrusions or each protrusion may have an upper surface that is bonded to the lower surface of the film. The film may be bonded to one or more of at least one of the protrusions by thermal lamination. Known air passages, despite having spacer material, often have films used to sandwich the spacer material that, during use, collapse inward from one another, causing obstruction of the fluid flow through the air passage. Advantageously, with respect to the present invention, during use, at least one protrusion prevents the film from collapsing into at least one or more grooves, thereby obstructing the fluid flow through the air passage.

[0048] The film may be substantially flat. Advantageously, this means the air passage has at least one substantially flat surface, which makes the air passage more comfortable when the user sits or leans over it.

[0049] At least one projection may be a separate, individual projection. Each separate, individual projection may have any shape, but in particular, it may have a cross-section (in plan view) that is circular, elliptical, triangular, square, diamond-shaped, rhombus-shaped, parallelogram-shaped, rectangular, pentagonal, hexagonal, heptagonal, or octagonal.

[0050] The projection, or each projection, may be an elongated projection that extends at least partially along the length of the strip material. The elongated projection, or each elongated projection, may be linear or zigzag. Multiple projections may have at least one separate projection and at least one elongated projection that extends at least partially along the length of the strip material.

[0051] The elongated projections, or each elongated projection, may extend along the length of the strip material by at least about 5%, about 10%, about 15%, about 20%, about 25%, about 30%, about 35%, about 40%, about 45%, about 50%, about 55%, about 60%, about 65%, about 70%, about 75%, about 80%, about 85%, about 90%, or at least about 95%.

[0052] The length of the strip material may be approximately 50mm, 60mm, 70mm, 80mm, 90mm, 100mm, 110mm, 120mm, 130mm, 140mm, 150mm, 160mm, 170mm, 180mm, 190mm, 200mm, 210mm, 220mm, 230mm, 240mm, 250mm, 260mm, 270mm, 280mm, 290mm, 300mm, 310mm, 320mm, 330mm, 340mm, 350mm, 360mm, 370mm, 380mm, 390mm, or 400mm.

[0053] The length of the strip material may be at least approximately 50 mm, 60 mm, 70 mm, 80 mm, 90 mm, 100 mm, 110 mm, 120 mm, 130 mm, 140 mm, 150 mm, 160 mm, 170 mm, 180 mm, 190 mm, 200 mm, 210 mm, 220 mm, 230 mm, 240 mm, 250 mm, 260 mm, 270 mm, 280 mm, 290 mm, 300 mm, 310 mm, 320 mm, 330 mm, 340 mm, 350 mm, 360 mm, 370 mm, 380 mm, 390 mm, or at least approximately 400 mm.

[0054] The length of the strip material is approximately 50mm or less, approximately 60mm or less, approximately 70mm or less, approximately 80mm or less, approximately 90mm or less, approximately 100mm or less, approximately 110mm or less, approximately 120mm or less, approximately 130mm or less, approximately 140mm or less, approximately 150mm or less, approximately 160mm or less, approximately 170mm or less, approximately 180mm or less, approximately 190mm or less, approximately 200mm or less, approximately 210mm or less, approximately 220mm or less, approximately It may be 230mm or less, approximately 240mm or less, approximately 250mm or less, approximately 260mm or less, approximately 270mm or less, approximately 280mm or less, approximately 290mm or less, approximately 300mm or less, approximately 310mm or less, approximately 320mm or less, approximately 330mm or less, approximately 340mm or less, approximately 350mm or less, approximately 360mm or less, approximately 370mm or less, approximately 380mm or less, approximately 390mm or less, or approximately 400mm or less.

[0055] The width of the strip material may be approximately 5 mm, 10 mm, 15 mm, 20 mm, 25 mm, 30 mm, 35 mm, 40 mm, 45 mm, or 50 mm.

[0056] The width of the strip material may be at least approximately 5 mm, approximately 10 mm, approximately 15 mm, approximately 20 mm, approximately 25 mm, approximately 30 mm, approximately 35 mm, approximately 40 mm, approximately 45 mm, or at least approximately 50 mm.

[0057] The width of the strip material may be approximately 5 mm or less, approximately 10 mm or less, approximately 15 mm or less, approximately 20 mm or less, approximately 25 mm or less, approximately 30 mm or less, approximately 35 mm or less, approximately 40 mm or less, approximately 45 mm or less, or approximately 50 mm or less.

[0058] The depth of the strip material may be approximately 0.5 mm, 0.6 mm, 0.7 mm, 0.8 mm, 0.9 mm, 1.0 mm, 1.1 mm, 1.2 mm, 1.3 mm, 1.4 mm, 1.5 mm, 1.6 mm, 1.7 mm, 1.8 mm, 1.9 mm, 2.0 mm, 2.1 mm, 2.2 mm, 2.3 mm, 2.4 mm, 2.5 mm, 2.6 mm, 2.7 mm, 2.8 mm, 2.9 mm, or 3.0 mm.

[0059] The depth of the strip material may be at least approximately 0.5 mm, 0.6 mm, 0.7 mm, 0.8 mm, 0.9 mm, 1.0 mm, 1.1 mm, 1.2 mm, 1.3 mm, 1.4 mm, 1.5 mm, 1.6 mm, 1.7 mm, 1.8 mm, 1.9 mm, 2.0 mm, 2.1 mm, 2.2 mm, 2.3 mm, 2.4 mm, 2.5 mm, 2.6 mm, 2.7 mm, 2.8 mm, 2.9 mm, or at least approximately 3.0 mm.

[0060] The depth of the strip material is approximately 0.5 mm or less, approximately 0.6 mm or less, approximately 0.7 mm or less, approximately 0.8 mm or less, approximately 0.9 mm or less, approximately 1.0 mm or less, approximately 1.1 mm or less, approximately 1.2 mm or less, approximately 1.3 mm or less, approximately 1.4 mm or less, approximately 1.5 mm or less, approximately 1.6 mm or less, approximately 1.7 mm or less. lower, about 1.8 mm or less, about 1.9 mm or less, about 2.0 mm or less, about 2.1 mm or less, about 2.2 mm or less, about 2.3 mm or less, about 2.4 mm or less, about 2.5 mm or less, about 2.6 mm or less, about 2.7 mm or less, about 2.8 mm or less, about 2.9 mm or less, or about 3.0 mm or less.

[0061] The depth of the strip material is measured from the base of the material to its highest point, for example, the top of a protrusion.

[0062] The depth of the groove or each groove may be approximately 0.1 mm, 0.2 mm, 0.3 mm, 0.4 mm, 0.5 mm, 0.6 mm, 0.7 mm, 0.8 mm, 0.9 mm, 1.0 mm, 1.1 mm, 1.2 mm, 1.3 mm, 1.4 mm, 1.5 mm, 1.6 mm, 1.7 mm, 1.8 mm, 1.9 mm, 2.0 mm, 2.1 mm, 2.2 mm, 2.3 mm, 2.4 mm, 2.5 mm, 2.6 mm, 2.7 mm, 2.8 mm, or 2.9 mm.

[0063] The depth of the groove or each groove may be at least approximately 0.1 mm, approximately 0.2 mm, approximately 0.3 mm, approximately 0.4 mm, approximately 0.5 mm, approximately 0.6 mm, approximately 0.7 mm, approximately 0.8 mm, approximately 0.9 mm, approximately 1.0 mm, approximately 1.1 mm, approximately 1.2 mm, approximately 1.3 mm, approximately 1.4 mm, approximately 1.5 mm, approximately 1.6 mm, approximately 1.7 mm, approximately 1.8 mm, approximately 1.9 mm, approximately 2.0 mm, approximately 2.1 mm, approximately 2.2 mm, approximately 2.3 mm, approximately 2.4 mm, approximately 2.5 mm, approximately 2.6 mm, approximately 2.7 mm, approximately 2.8 mm, or at least approximately 2.9 mm.

[0064] The depth of the groove or each groove is about 0.1 mm or less, about 0.2 mm or less, about 0.3 mm or less, about 0.4 mm or less, about 0.5 mm or less, about 0.6 mm or less, about 0.7 mm or less, about 0.8 mm or less, about 0.9 mm or less, about 1.0 mm or less, about 1.1 mm or less, about 1.2 mm or less, about 1.3 mm or less, about 1.4 mm or less, about 1.5 mm or less, about 1.6 mm or less, about 1.7 mm or less, about 1.8 mm or less, about 1.9 mm or less, about 2.0 mm or less, about 2.1 mm or less, about 2.2 mm or less, about 2.3 mm or less, about 2.4 mm or less, about 2.5 mm or less, about 2.6 mm or less, about 2.7 mm or less, about 2.8 mm or less, or about 2.9 mm or less.

[0065] The depth of the grooves or each groove may be approximately 0.1 mm to 2.9 mm, 0.2 mm to 2.8 mm, 0.3 mm to 2.6 mm, 0.4 mm to 2.4 mm, 0.5 mm to 2.2 mm, 0.5 mm to 2.0 mm, 0.6 mm to 1.8 mm, 0.7 mm to 1.6 mm, 0.8 mm to 1.4 mm, 0.9 mm to 1.2 mm, or 1.0 mm.

[0066] Advantageously, the grooves, or each groove, have a depth considerably smaller than the depth of spacer material commonly found in known air passages. Thus, the present invention provides an air passage that is shallower than air passages of the prior art. Therefore, the air passage of the present invention is more comfortable for the patient when leaning against it.

[0067] The "depth" of a groove refers to the distance between the upper end surface or upper end point of a projection and the base of the groove from which the projection extends.

[0068] The width of the groove or each groove may be approximately 0.1 mm, 0.2 mm, 0.3 mm, 0.4 mm, 0.5 mm, 0.6 mm, 0.7 mm, 0.8 mm, 0.9 mm, 1.0 mm, 1.1 mm, 1.2 mm, 1.3 mm, 1.4 mm, 1.5 mm, 1.6 mm, 1.7 mm, 1.8 mm, 1.9 mm, 2.0 mm, 2.1 mm, 2.2 mm, 2.3 mm, 2.4 mm, 2.5 mm, 2.6 mm, 2.7 mm, 2.8 mm, 2.9 mm, or 3.0 mm.

[0069] The width of the groove or each groove may be at least approximately 0.1 mm, approximately 0.2 mm, approximately 0.3 mm, approximately 0.4 mm, approximately 0.5 mm, approximately 0.6 mm, approximately 0.7 mm, approximately 0.8 mm, approximately 0.9 mm, approximately 1.0 mm, approximately 1.1 mm, approximately 1.2 mm, approximately 1.3 mm, approximately 1.4 mm, approximately 1.5 mm, approximately 1.6 mm, approximately 1.7 mm, approximately 1.8 mm, approximately 1.9 mm, approximately 2.0 mm, approximately 2.1 mm, approximately 2.2 mm, approximately 2.3 mm, approximately 2.4 mm, approximately 2.5 mm, approximately 2.6 mm, approximately 2.7 mm, approximately 2.8 mm, approximately 2.9 mm, or at least approximately 3.0 mm.

[0070] The width of the groove or each groove is about 0.1 mm or less, about 0.2 mm or less, about 0.3 mm or less, about 0.4 mm or less, about 0.5 mm or less, about 0.6 mm or less, about 0.7 mm or less, about 0.8 mm or less, about 0.9 mm or less, about 1.0 mm or less, about 1.1 mm or less, about 1.2 mm or less, about 1.3 mm or less, about 1.4 mm or less, about 1.5 mm or less, It may be about 1.6 mm or less, about 1.7 mm or less, about 1.8 mm or less, about 1.9 mm or less, about 2.0 mm or less, about 2.1 mm or less, about 2.2 mm or less, about 2.3 mm or less, about 2.4 mm or less, about 2.5 mm or less, about 2.6 mm or less, about 2.7 mm or less, about 2.8 mm or less, about 2.9 mm or less, or about 3.0 mm or less.

[0071] The width of the groove or each groove may be approximately 0.1 mm to 3.0 mm, 0.2 mm to 2.8 mm, 0.3 mm to 2.6 mm, 0.4 mm to 2.4 mm, 0.5 mm to 2.2 mm, 0.5 mm to 2.0 mm, 0.6 mm to 1.8 mm, 0.7 mm to 1.6 mm, 0.8 mm to 1.4 mm, 0.9 mm to 1.2 mm, or 1.0 mm.

[0072] Advantageously, grooves having the above-described depth and / or width dimensions, when used as part of a negative pressure wound dressing, allow for sufficient flow of fluid (typically air) away from the wound. The dimensions of such grooves are generally smaller than those of spacer materials used in known air channels. Thus, the present invention provides an air channel that is less cumbersome for the patient and does not cause discomfort to the patient when leaning against the air channel during use.

[0073] Furthermore, the aforementioned depth and / or width dimensions of the grooves or each groove further reduce the ability of the film to be compressed within the grooves or each groove when, for example, the air passage is folded over itself or placed under the weight of the user during use.

[0074] The "width" of a groove refers to the distance between adjacent protrusions that share a groove.

[0075] In embodiments including one or more grooves, not all grooves have to have the same width. The average width of the grooves may be about 0.1 mm, about 0.2 mm, about 0.3 mm, about 0.4 mm, about 0.5 mm, about 0.6 mm, about 0.7 mm, about 0.8 mm, about 0.9 mm, about 1.0 mm, about 1.1 mm, about 1.2 mm, about 1.3 mm, about 1.4 mm, about 1.5 mm, about 1.6 mm, about 1.7 mm, about 1.8 mm, about 1.9 mm, about 2.0 mm, about 2.1 mm, about 2.2 mm, about 2.3 mm, about 2.4 mm, about 2.5 mm, about 2.6 mm, about 2.7 mm, about 2.8 mm, about 2.9 mm, or about 3.0 mm.

[0076] The average width of the groove may be at least approximately 0.1 mm, 0.2 mm, 0.3 mm, 0.4 mm, 0.5 mm, 0.6 mm, 0.7 mm, 0.8 mm, 0.9 mm, 1.0 mm, 1.1 mm, 1.2 mm, 1.3 mm, 1.4 mm, 1.5 mm, 1.6 mm, 1.7 mm, 1.8 mm, 1.9 mm, 2.0 mm, 2.1 mm, 2.2 mm, 2.3 mm, 2.4 mm, 2.5 mm, 2.6 mm, 2.7 mm, 2.8 mm, 2.9 mm, or at least approximately 3.0 mm.

[0077] The average width of the groove is about 0.1 mm or less, about 0.2 mm or less, about 0.3 mm or less, about 0.4 mm or less, about 0.5 mm or less, about 0.6 mm or less, about 0.7 mm or less, about 0.8 mm or less, about 0.9 mm or less, about 1.0 mm or less, about 1.1 mm or less, about 1.2 mm or less, about 1.3 mm or less, about 1.4 mm or less, about 1.5 mm or less, about It may be 1.6 mm or less, about 1.7 mm or less, about 1.8 mm or less, about 1.9 mm or less, about 2.0 mm or less, about 2.1 mm or less, about 2.2 mm or less, about 2.3 mm or less, about 2.4 mm or less, about 2.5 mm or less, about 2.6 mm or less, about 2.7 mm or less, about 2.8 mm or less, about 2.9 mm or less, or about 3.0 mm or less.

[0078] The average width of the groove may be approximately 0.1mm to 3.0mm, 0.2mm to 2.8mm, 0.3mm to 2.6mm, 0.4mm to 2.4mm, 0.5mm to 2.2mm, 0.5mm to 2.0mm, 0.6mm to 1.8mm, 0.7mm to 1.6mm, 0.8mm to 1.4mm, 0.9mm to 1.2mm, or 1.0mm.

[0079] The grooves may form a grooved area. A "grooved area" generally refers to the region of the strip material surrounded by the grooves.

[0080] The grooves may form groove areas with a width equal to approximately 10%, 15%, 20%, 25%, 30%, 35%, 40%, 45%, 50%, 55%, 60%, 65%, 70%, 75%, 80%, 85%, 90%, 95%, or substantially all or all of the width of the air passage.

[0081] The grooves may form groove areas with a width equal to at least about 10%, about 15%, about 20%, about 25%, about 30%, about 35%, about 40%, about 45%, about 50%, about 55%, about 60%, about 65%, about 70%, about 75%, about 80%, about 85%, about 90%, about 95%, or at least substantially all or all of the width of the air passage.

[0082] The grooves may form groove areas with a width of approximately 10% or less, approximately 15% or less, approximately 20% or less, approximately 25% or less, approximately 30% or less, approximately 35% or less, approximately 40% or less, approximately 45% or less, approximately 50% or less, approximately 55% or less, approximately 60% or less, approximately 65% ​​or less, approximately 70% or less, approximately 75% or less, approximately 80% or less, approximately 85% or less, approximately 90% or less, or approximately 95% or less of the width of the air passage.

[0083] The grooves may form groove areas having a length equal to approximately 10%, 15%, 20%, 25%, 30%, 35%, 40%, 45%, 50%, 55%, 60%, 65%, 70%, 75%, 80%, 85%, 90%, 95%, or substantially all or all of the length of the air passage.

[0084] The grooves may form groove areas having a length equal to at least about 10%, about 15%, about 20%, about 25%, about 30%, about 35%, about 40%, about 45%, about 50%, about 55%, about 60%, about 65%, about 70%, about 75%, about 80%, about 85%, about 90%, about 95%, or at least substantially all or all of the length of the air passage.

[0085] The grooves may form groove areas having a length of approximately 10% or less, approximately 15% or less, approximately 20% or less, approximately 25% or less, approximately 30% or less, approximately 35% or less, approximately 40% or less, approximately 45% or less, approximately 50% or less, approximately 55% or less, approximately 60% or less, approximately 65% ​​or less, approximately 70% or less, approximately 75% or less, approximately 80% or less, approximately 85% or less, approximately 90% or less, or approximately 95% or less of the length of the air passage.

[0086] The film thickness is preferably at least about 0.05 mm, about 0.1 mm, about 0.15 mm, about 0.2 mm, about 0.25 mm, about 0.3 mm, about 0.35 mm, about 0.4 mm, about 0.45 mm, about 0.5 mm, about 0.55 mm, about 0.6 mm, about 0.65 mm, about 0.7 mm, about 0.75 mm, about 0.8 mm, about 0.85 mm, about 0.9 mm, about 0.95 mm, or at least about 1.0 mm.

[0087] The film thickness is preferably about 0.05 mm or less, about 0.1 mm or less, about 0.15 mm or less, about 0.2 mm or less, about 0.25 mm or less, about 0.3 mm or less, about 0.35 mm or less, about 0.4 mm or less, about 0.45 mm or less, about 0.5 mm or less, about 0.6 mm or less, about 0.65 mm or less, about 0.7 mm or less, about 0.75 mm or less, about 0.8 mm or less, about 0.85 mm or less, about 0.9 mm or less, about 0.95 mm or less, or about 1.0 mm or less.

[0088] Each channel may be in fluid communication with at least one other channel. Each channel may be in fluid communication with each other such that multiple channels form an interconnection grid of channels in fluid communication with one another. Advantageously, this facilitates the passage of air (or another fluid) along the channels, thus providing an air passage that reliably transmits negative pressure to the wound. Even more advantageously, the arrangement of the channels maintains an effective flow of air (or another fluid) along the channels even if the air passage is bent (e.g., twisted) during use. Thus, blockage of the air passage is prevented or at least significantly reduced compared to air passages of the prior art.

[0089] The fluid can be either a gas or a liquid.

[0090] Multiple channels may include at least a first channel and a second channel.

[0091] The first channel and the second channel may be separate from each other, such that the first channel does not have fluid communication with the second channel. This arrangement provides an air passage that allows fluid to pass in two directions: away from the wound and towards the wound.

[0092] Multiple channels have at least a first channel area and a second channel area, and each channel area may have two or more channels. The first channel area may be separate from the second channel area so that the first channel area does not have fluid communication with the second channel area.

[0093] The first channel area and the second channel area may be separated by a seal between the strip and the film. This arrangement provides an air passage that allows fluid to pass in two directions, namely, away from the wound and toward the wound. The seal may be an adhesion between the film and one or more protrusions. The seal may be an entry into one or more grooves. The seal may be formed by laminating the film onto the strip. The seal may be a longitudinal seal that extends longitudinally along the air passage and is arranged to separate the first channel area from the second channel area so that the two channel areas do not fluidize each other. In this embodiment, the air passage may have two tubular portions at its end, for example, at the first end, with a first tubular portion that fluidizees with the first channel area and a second tubular portion that fluidizees with the second channel area. Advantageously, this means that the air passage can provide fluid passage in two different directions, namely, a first direction toward the wound through, for example, a first channel area, and a second direction away from the wound through, for example, a second channel area.

[0094] The film and strip may be formed from the same material. Beneficially, this means that the air channels can be formed from readily available, cost-effective materials, which tend to improve the adhesion between one material and the other.

[0095] The film may be formed from a material selected from the group including polyurethane, thermoplastic polyurethane, thermoplastic elastomer, polyethylene, polypropylene, polyvinyl chloride, ethylene-vinyl acetate, and silicone materials, such as silicone rubber.

[0096] The strip may be formed from a material selected from the group including polyurethane, thermoplastic polyurethane, thermoplastic elastomer, polyethylene, polypropylene, polyvinyl chloride, ethylene-vinyl acetate, and silicone materials, such as silicone rubber.

[0097] Advantageously, each of these materials is inexpensive and readily available. Even more advantageously, each of these materials is stretchable, flexible, and provides a relatively soft air passage. Thus, even if the air passage repeatedly rubs against the skin due to the patient's movement, the air passage does not irritate the patient. Furthermore, these materials, polyurethane in particular, are reusable and recyclable.

[0098] The film may be bonded to the strip material by lamination. Lamination of the film to the strip may be by heat lamination, pressure lamination, heat and pressure lamination, welding, or adhesive.

[0099] The film and strip may each be formed from recyclable materials. Beneficially, using recyclable materials to form air channels is environmentally friendly.

[0100] Air passages can generally have a flat outer surface.

[0101] The strip material and / or film may be formed from a transparent or translucent material. Advantageously, this means that the air channels are transparent or translucent, respectively, so that if an obstruction occurs within the air channel, for example, due to wound exudate, the patient or healthcare worker can see it.

[0102] The strip material may have any shape, but is preferably an elongated rectangular shape including a first longitudinal edge positioned parallel to a second longitudinal edge. The longitudinal edges may be joined by two curved, opposing ends. At least one of the two curved ends may be tapered.

[0103] The air passage may include a first end. The first end may include a filter, an infection detection indicator, and / or a coating replacement indicator.

[0104] The filter may be impermeable to liquids but permeable to gases. Advantageously, the filter can function as a liquid barrier, preventing wound exudate from escaping the wound dressing.

[0105] The filter may also function as a bacterial barrier.

[0106] The filter may be a microporous membrane. The microporous membrane may be any polymer material. The filter may be a microporous hydrophobic membrane (MHM). The MHM can be formed from one or more of PTFE, polypropylene, PVDF, and acrylic copolymers. Each of these polymers can be treated to obtain specific surface properties that allow for both hydrophobicity and oleophobicity. Thus, they repel liquids with low surface tension, such as multivitamin infusions, lipids, surfactants, oils, and organic solvents.

[0107] The filter may include an odor absorbent, such as activated carbon or carbon fiber cloth.

[0108] The pore size of the filter may be approximately 0.1 μm, 0.2 μm, 0.3 μm, 0.4 μm, 0.5 μm, 0.6 μm, 0.7 μm, 0.8 μm, 0.9 μm, or 1.0 μm.

[0109] The filter may include an oil-repellent filter membrane. Beneficially, the oil-repellent filter membrane can prevent lipids in the wound exudate from blocking the filter.

[0110] The infection detection indicator and / or dressing replacement indicator may include an auxiliary compound. The auxiliary compound may be an antibacterial agent, antifungal agent, anti-inflammatory agent, or other therapeutic compound. In some embodiments, the indicator may be by color change. The color may change as a function of time (for example, to indicate when the dressing needs to be replaced) when the dressing is saturated (for example, to indicate the presence of an infectious agent) or when the dressing has absorbed a certain amount of harmful substance.

[0111] The first end may include a viewing window for viewing an infection detection indicator and / or a dressing replacement indicator. The viewing window may be electronically monitored and may be used in conjunction with a computer program or system that alerts the patient or physician to the saturation level of the dressing.

[0112] The end of the air passage, for example, the first end, may include a tapered portion extending away from the air passage.

[0113] The tapered portion may include a tubular portion. The tubular portion may extend further from the first end than the tapered portion. The tubular portion may be configured to receive a tube or Luer or barb connector that can be connected to the pump. The tubular portion may have a greater depth than any other portion of the air passage. Therefore, the tubular portion may be stiffer than any other portion of the air passage. Advantageously, this facilitates the insertion of the tube or Luer or barb connector. Even more advantageously, in embodiments including a tubular portion that is particularly stiffer than any other portion of the air passage, the tubular portion prevents twisting of the air passage at the end containing the tubular portion, for example, the first end. The tubular portion may extend only by a length equal to about 2%, about 4%, about 6%, about 8%, or about 10% of the length of the air passage.

[0114] In embodiments of the present invention that do not include a tubular portion, the tube or luer or barb connector may be bonded to the first surface of the strip material (for example, using an adhesive) at the end of the strip material (e.g., the first end) before the film is bonded to the first surface of the strip material. Thus, the tube or luer or barb connector is sandwiched between the first surface of the strip material and the film.

[0115] The first end may include a connector for connecting the air passage to a pump. The connector may connect the air passage to the pump via a medical tube. In embodiments in which the air passage is used as part of a negative pressure wound dressing, the connector may be configured to transmit negative pressure from the pump to the wound dressing in order to locally apply negative pressure at the wound site.

[0116] The connector may include a body having an upper and lower surface, with each surface joined at its outer circumference. The connector may include a nozzle having an opening at its tip. The nozzle may extend away from the connector body at the joint between the upper and lower surfaces. The nozzle may be tapered to facilitate connection to a tube or other connector or adapter that can be connected to a pump.

[0117] The connector may include an orifice. The lower surface of the connector may include an orifice. The orifice may be centrally located relative to the outer circumference of the lower surface of the connector. The orifice may be in fluid communication with the nozzle and opening.

[0118] In embodiments of the present invention that do not include a tubular portion, the air passage may include one or more openings, preferably in the shape of a cross or a circle, at the first end of the air passage and preferably on the second surface of the strip material, so that the film does not contain one or more openings. Thus, one or more openings are arranged to be in fluid communication with at least one channel. When in use, the connector may be bonded to the air passage on the second surface of the strip material, for example by adhesive or heat welding, so that the orifice is in fluid communication with one or more openings. Thus, the mouth, the nozzle, the orifice, one or more openings, and at least one channel are in fluid communication with each other. A Luer or barb connector may be connected to the nozzle of the connector and to a pump. Thus, the operation of the pump allows air to pass from the wound along at least one channel, through one or more openings, through the orifice, nozzle, mouth, and through the Luer or barb connector toward the pump. In this way, negative pressure is generated at the wound.

[0119] The filter, infection detection indicator, and / or coating replacement indicator may be formed integrally with the connector. The filter, infection detection indicator, and / or coating replacement indicator may be located within the nozzle of the connector.

[0120] Filters, infection detection indicators, coating replacement indicators, and / or connectors may be attached to the first surface of the strip material.

[0121] Filters, infection detection indicators, coating replacement indicators, and / or connectors may be attached to the second surface of the strip material.

[0122] Filters, infection detection indicators, coating replacement indicators, and / or connectors may be attached to the second surface of the strip material and be in fluid communication with the first surface through one or more openings.

[0123] The air passage may have a second end distal to the first end. The second end may be substantially the same size and shape as the first end, or it may be larger than the first end. The second end may include a lip. Advantageously, the lip increases the surface area of ​​the second end for bonding the adhesive. The second end may be any shape, such as circular, triangular, square, pentagonal, etc. Advantageously, an enlarged second end provides sufficient surface area for the adhesive panel to be bonded to the air passage.

[0124] The second end may include an adhesive panel for bonding the air passage to a wound dressing. The adhesive panel may be a double-sided adhesive panel. The adhesive panel may be separated from the air passage until it is necessary to bond it to the second end of the air passage. Advantageously, the adhesive panel is suitable for bonding the air passage to a wound dressing, such as a backing layer.

[0125] Strip materials can be formed by compression molding or injection molding. Each molding technique offers a cost-effective method for forming air channels. Furthermore, compression molding and injection molding allow for custom shapes and designs of the manufactured strip materials. Beneficially, this means that the number, shape, and configuration of grooves and corresponding protrusions can be easily formed when creating the strip material.

[0126] The strip material may be the first strip material.

[0127] The air passage may include a second strip material. The second strip material may include any of the optional features related to the (first) strip material described above.

[0128] The air passage may comprise a second strip material having a first surface having at least one, preferably more, grooves. The first surface of the second strip material may be positioned to cover the film and bonded to the film around the longitudinal edges of the second strip material to form at least one, preferably more, channels between the second strip material and the film. Advantageously, this arrangement allows for the formation of at least two channels (i.e., at least a first channel and at least a second channel) that are not fluidly communicating with each other. This arrangement allows for the passage of fluid in two directions: away from the wound and towards the wound.

[0129] Accordingly, in some embodiments, an air passage for a negative pressure wound dressing is provided, the air passage comprising a first strip material having a first surface having at least one groove, the air passage further comprising a film disposed to cover the first surface of the first strip material and bonded to the first strip material around the longitudinal edge of the first strip material, the at least one groove being provided with at least one projection for forming at least two channels between the first strip and the film, the air passage further comprising a second strip material having a first surface having at least one groove provided with at least one projection, the first surface of the second strip material being disposed to cover a film and bonded to the film around the longitudinal edge of the second strip material to form at least two channels between the second strip and the film.

[0130] In some embodiments, an air passage for a negative pressure wound dressing is provided, the air passage comprising a first strip material including a first surface having at least one groove, the air passage further comprising a film disposed to cover the first surface of the first strip material and bonded to the first strip material around the longitudinal edge of the first strip material, the at least one groove being provided with at least one projection for forming at least two channels between the first strip and the film, the air passage further comprising a second strip material including a first surface having at least one groove provided with at least one projection, the first surface of the second strip material being disposed to cover a film and bonded to the film around the longitudinal edge of the second strip material to form at least two channels between the second strip and the film, the at least one groove contained in the first strip material being formed by heat pressing, laser cutting, laser engraving or thermoforming.

[0131] In some embodiments, an air passage for a negative pressure wound dressing is provided, the air passage comprising a first strip material including a first surface having at least one groove, the air passage further comprising a film disposed to cover the first surface of the first strip material and bonded to the first strip material around the longitudinal edge of the first strip material, the at least one groove being provided with at least one projection for forming at least two channels between the first strip and the film, the air passage further comprising a second strip material including a first surface having at least one groove provided with at least one projection, the first surface of the second strip material being disposed to cover a film and bonded to the film around the longitudinal edge of the second strip material to form at least two channels between the second strip and the film, the at least one groove contained in the second strip material being formed by heat pressing, laser cutting, laser engraving or thermoforming.

[0132] In some embodiments, an air passage for a negative pressure wound dressing is provided, the air passage comprising a first strip material including a first surface having at least one groove, the air passage further comprising a film disposed to cover the first surface of the first strip material and bonded to the first strip material around the longitudinal edge of the first strip material, the at least one groove being provided with at least one projection for forming at least two channels between the first strip and the film, the air passage further comprising a second strip material including a first surface having at least one groove provided with at least one projection, the first surface of the second strip material being disposed to cover a film and bonded to the film around the longitudinal edge of the second strip material to form at least two channels between the second strip and the film, the at least one groove in the first strip material being formed by heat pressing, laser cutting, laser engraving or thermoforming, and the at least one groove in the second strip material being formed by heat pressing, laser cutting, laser engraving or thermoforming.

[0133] The second strip material may be formed from the same material as the first strip material.

[0134] The air passage may comprise at least one seal arranged to separate multiple channels into two or more separate channel areas, for example, a first channel area and a second channel area. In this embodiment, at least one seal may be formed after the film is bonded to the strip material. Each separated channel area cannot be in fluid communication with any other separate separated channel area. The air passage may comprise one, two, three, or more than three seals. The seals may be formed between the film and the strip material. The seals may be formed by thermal lamination, pressure lamination, thermal and pressure lamination, welding, or adhesive. Each separated channel area may contain at least one channel. Advantageously, in this embodiment, the air passage may be used to provide multidirectional fluid flow. For example, fluid may flow toward the wound through at least one channel in the first channel area, and at the same time, fluid may flow away from the wound through at least one channel in the second channel area.

[0135] Air channels may be used in conjunction with wound dressings to apply, for example, negative pressure therapy, positive pressure therapy, oxygen therapy, or deep wound filling therapy. Air channels may also be used as part of a drug delivery system or infusion system.

[0136] As an example of an embodiment of the present invention in use, a typical negative pressure wound dressing comprises a pump for generating negative pressure and a dressing for covering and protecting a wound, the dressing comprising a wound contact layer, a backing layer, and at least one layer of absorbent material between the wound contact layer and the backing layer. In use, a fluid communication path is provided from the wound through the wound contact layer and through one or more layers of absorbent material arranged in the dressing. The fluid communication path may extend through an opening in the backing layer. Advantageously, the fluid communication path can be formed at any suitable location in the wound dressing.

[0137] The air passage can be bonded to the wound dressing between the backing layer and at least one absorbent layer, for example, via a double-sided adhesive at the second end of the air passage. Alternatively, if the fluid communication path extends through an opening in the backing layer, the air passage can be bonded to the wound dressing in the backing layer, with the opening of the air passage strip material and the opening in the backing layer being concentric.

[0138] A Luer or barbed connector is inserted into the tubular portion at the first end of the strip material, and the connector is connected to a pump, possibly via a tube or the like. When the pump is activated, air is drawn from the wound through the fluid communication path, through the wound contact layer and absorbent material, through the opening in the adhesive panel, through the opening at the second end of the strip material, along multiple channels, through the tubular portion and the Luer connector, and towards the pump. This creates negative pressure at the wound site.

[0139] The second strip material may be an elongated strip material. The second strip material may have a first end. The second strip material may have a second end. The second elongated strip material may have a pair of longitudinal edges, namely a first longitudinal edge and a second longitudinal edge. The longitudinal edges may be joined at the first end by an outward curved portion, the outermost portion of which may form the end of the first end. The longitudinal edges may be joined by an outward curved portion, the outermost portion of which may form the end of the second end. The second end may be distal to the first end.

[0140] The second strip material may have a width of approximately 15 mm (i.e., the distance between the first longitudinal edge and the second longitudinal edge) and a length of approximately 300 mm (i.e., the distance from the end of the first end to the end of the second end).

[0141] In embodiments comprising a second strip material, the first strip material may have a first orifice at its first end, the first orifice being operable as an inlet or outlet for fluid flow. In embodiments comprising a second strip material, the first strip material may have a second orifice at its second end, the second orifice being operable as an inlet or outlet for fluid flow. The first orifice may be operable as an inlet or outlet for fluid flow, and the second orifice may be operable as the other of an inlet or outlet for fluid flow.

[0142] The first orifice can be in fluid communication with the second orifice. Advantageously, this allows the air passage of the present invention to have at least one appropriately configured connector at the first and / or second end.

[0143] The air passage may include a third orifice. The second strip material may include at least one orifice. The third orifice may be located at the first end of the second strip material. The third orifice may be cross-shaped. The third orifice may be located in the center relative to the outer circumference of the first end of the second strip material. The third orifice may extend through the entire depth of the second strip material.

[0144] The air passage may include a fourth orifice. The fourth orifice may be located at the second end of the second strip material. The fourth orifice may be cross-shaped. The fourth orifice may be located in the center relative to the outer circumference of the second end of the second strip material. The fourth orifice may extend through the entire depth of the second strip material.

[0145] The second strip material may have a downward-facing first surface and an upward-facing second surface when in use. When in use, the first surface may face toward the wound, and the second surface may face toward away from the wound.

[0146] The first surface of the second strip material may include a grooved area having at least one groove, preferably more grooves. The grooved area may have at least one projection, preferably more projections.

[0147] The groove area on the first surface of the second strip material may include the features of the groove area on the first surface of the first strip material.

[0148] The groove area may have a width equal to approximately 60% of the width of the second strip material and a length equal to approximately 90% of the length of the second strip material. The groove area may be substantially rectangular.

[0149] At least one groove may be arranged as an intersecting pattern of grooves in a cross shape, with each groove separated from another groove or another part of a groove by a projection. The projection or each projection may extend from the base of the groove. The groove or each groove may have a width of 1.0 mm and a depth of 1.5 mm. The groove or each groove may be formed by laser engraving / etching a second strip material. The second strip material may have a depth of 2.0 mm.

[0150] In embodiments including multiple grooves, each groove may be in fluid communication with another groove such that the multiple grooves form a grid of interconnected grooves in fluid communication. Advantageously, in this embodiment, the multiple grooves increase the overall volume of grooves in the second strip material of the air passage. This means that a greater volume of fluid (e.g., air) is transmitted along the second strip material of the air passage in any given time compared to prior art air passages without multiple grooves, particularly those without an intersecting groove pattern.

[0151] Furthermore, during use, the interconnected groove grid maintains a favorable flow rate of fluid along the second strip material of the air passage while the air passage is compressed or under load. Thus, for example, when used to transmit negative pressure to a wound, the air passage of the present invention maintains negative pressure at the wound site even when the air passage is folded and / or compressed by the user.

[0152] At least one groove can be in fluid communication with the third orifice. At least one groove can be in fluid communication with the fourth orifice.

[0153] The air passage may comprise a second strip material such that a first surface of the second strip material is positioned to cover the film. The first surface of the second strip material may be bonded to the film around the longitudinal edge of the second strip material (e.g., by adhesive, or alternatively, thermal lamination may be used). The multiple grooves may form at least one second channel, preferably a second or more channels, between the second strip material and the film. In embodiments including a second or more channels, the second or more channels may be in fluid communication with each other such that the second or more channels are in fluid communication with each other to form a network of interconnected channels. The interconnected channels may be in fluid communication with a third orifice at the first end of the second strip material and / or with a fourth orifice at the second end of the second strip material.

[0154] Advantageously, this arrangement allows for the formation of at least two channels that are not in fluid communication with each other (i.e., at least a first channel and at least a second channel). This arrangement provides an air passage that allows for the passage of fluid in two directions, namely, the passage of fluid away from the wound and the passage of fluid toward the wound.

[0155] At least one groove contained in the first surface of the first strip material may be provided with a plurality of protrusions such that a plurality of channels are provided between the first strip and the film.

[0156] At least one groove contained in the first surface of the second strip material may be provided with multiple protrusions such that multiple channels are provided between the second strip and the film.

[0157] Multiple protrusions may be provided in at least one groove on the first surface of the first strip material such that multiple channels are provided between the first strip and the film, and multiple protrusions may be provided in at least one groove on the first surface of the second strip material such that multiple channels are provided between the second strip and the film.

[0158] Accordingly, in some embodiments, an air passage for a negative pressure wound dressing is provided, the air passage comprising a first strip material including a first surface having at least one groove, the air passage further comprising a film disposed over the first surface of the first strip material and bonded to the first strip material around the longitudinal edge of the first strip material, the at least one groove being provided with at least one projection for forming at least two channels between the first strip and the film, the air passage further comprising a second strip material including a first surface having at least one groove provided with at least one projection, the first surface of the second strip material being disposed over a film and bonded to the film around the longitudinal edge of the second strip material to form at least two channels between the second strip and the film, the at least one groove included in the first surface of the first strip material being provided with a plurality of projections so as to provide a plurality of channels between the first strip and the film, and / or the at least one groove included in the first surface of the second strip material being provided with a plurality of projections so as to provide a plurality of channels between the second strip and the film.

[0159] In some embodiments, an air passage for a negative pressure wound dressing is provided, the air passage comprising a first strip material including a first surface having at least one groove, the air passage further comprising a film disposed over the first surface of the first strip material and adhered to the first strip material around the longitudinal edge of the first strip material, the at least one groove being provided with at least one projection for forming at least two channels between the first strip and the film, the air passage further comprising a second strip material including a first surface having at least one groove provided with at least one projection, the first surface of the second strip material being disposed over a film, and the second strip The strip material is bonded to the film around its longitudinal edge, forming at least two channels between the second strip and the film, and at least one groove included in the first surface of the first strip material is provided with a plurality of protrusions such that a plurality of channels are provided between the first strip and the film, and / or at least one groove included in the first surface of the second strip material is provided with a plurality of protrusions such that a plurality of channels are provided between the second strip and the film, and at least two channels between the first strip material and the film are in fluid communication with each other, and / or at least two channels between the second strip material and the film are in fluid communication with each other.

[0160] In some embodiments, an air passage for a negative pressure wound dressing is provided, the air passage comprising a first strip material including a first surface having at least one groove, the air passage further comprising a film disposed over the first surface of the first strip material and bonded to the first strip material around the longitudinal edge of the first strip material, the at least one groove being provided with at least one projection for forming at least two channels between the first strip and the film, the air passage further comprising a second strip material including a first surface having at least one groove provided with at least one projection, the first surface of the second strip material being disposed over a film and bonded to the film around the longitudinal edge of the second strip material, the air passage comprising at least two channels between the second strip and the film Channels are formed, and at least one groove included in the first surface of the first strip material is provided with a plurality of protrusions such that a plurality of channels are provided between the first strip and the film, and / or at least one groove included in the first surface of the second strip material is provided with a plurality of protrusions such that a plurality of channels are provided between the second strip and the film, and at least two channels between the first strip material and the film are in fluid communication with each other, and / or at least two channels between the second strip material and the film are in fluid communication with each other, and the channels between the first strip material and the film form a network of interconnected channels, and / or the channels between the second strip material and the film form a network of interconnected channels.

[0161] In some embodiments, the channel between the first strip material and the film is not in fluid communication with the channel between the second strip material and the film.

[0162] Advantageously, this embodiment provides an air passage that allows simultaneous passage of a fluid, such as air, in two directions: away from the wound and toward the wound. This can facilitate wound healing through several mechanisms, such as the removal of excess exudate, reduction of periwound edema, and increased perfusion, thereby improving the wound prognosis.

[0163] The air passage may include at least one connector. The at least one connector may include a first connector for connecting a channel between a first strip material and a film to a first medical tube and the lumen between them. The first connector may be connected to a first end of the first strip material, for example by adhesive or heat welding, so that the connector is in fluid communication with a first orifice. The air passage may include a second connector for connecting a channel between a second strip material and a film to a second medical tube and the lumen between them. The second connector may be connected to a first end of the second strip material, for example by adhesive or heat welding, so that the connector is in fluid communication with a third orifice.

[0164] The first and / or second connectors may be Luer or barb connectors. The first and / or second connectors may be connectable to a pump.

[0165] The first orifice of the first strip material and the second orifice of the first strip material can be in fluid communication via the first channel or each of the first channels.

[0166] The third orifice of the second strip material and the fourth orifice of the second strip material can be in fluid communication via the second channel or each of the second channels.

[0167] The first and / or second orifice cannot communicate fluidly with the third and / or fourth orifice.

[0168] The first orifice can be separated from the third orifice by a film. The first orifice can be separated from the third orifice by a film so as not to be in fluid communication with the third orifice.

[0169] The second orifice can be separated from the fourth orifice by a film. The second orifice can be separated from the fourth orifice by a film so as not to be in fluid communication with the fourth orifice.

[0170] The film between the first strip material and the second strip material may include, for example, multiple layers of film bonded together by heat lamination or adhesive.

[0171] In some embodiments, the film is formed from a material selected from the group including polyurethane, thermoplastic polyurethane, thermoplastic elastomer, polyethylene, polypropylene, polyvinyl chloride, ethylene-vinyl acetate, and silicone materials.

[0172] The first orifice, second orifice, third orifice, and / or fourth orifice may include multiple orifices.

[0173] The first end of the first and / or second strip material may include 2 to 18 orifices, 6 to 15 orifices, or 9 to 12 orifices.

[0174] The first end of the first and / or second strip material may contain approximately 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, or 18 orifices.

[0175] The first end of the first and / or second strip material may include at least about 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, or at least about 18 orifices.

[0176] The first end of the first and / or second strip material may contain approximately 2 or fewer, approximately 3 or fewer, approximately 4 or fewer, approximately 5 or fewer, approximately 6 or fewer, approximately 7 or fewer, approximately 8 or fewer, approximately 9 or fewer, approximately 10 or fewer, approximately 11 or fewer, approximately 12 or fewer, approximately 13 or fewer, approximately 14 or fewer, approximately 15 or fewer, approximately 16 or fewer, approximately 17 or fewer, or approximately 18 or fewer orifices.

[0177] The shape of the orifice or each orifice may be circular, square, rectangular, rhombus, triangular, pentagonal, hexagonal, heptagonal, octagonal, cross-shaped, or slit-shaped.

[0178] The orifice or the diameter or longest dimension of each orifice may be approximately 0.1 cm, 0.2 cm, 0.3 cm, 0.4 cm, 0.5 cm, 0.6 cm, 0.7 cm, 0.8 cm, 0.9 cm, or 1.0 cm.

[0179] The orifice or the diameter or longest dimension of each orifice may be at least about 0.1 cm, about 0.2 cm, about 0.3 cm, about 0.4 cm, about 0.5 cm, about 0.6 cm, about 0.7 cm, about 0.8 cm, about 0.9 cm, or at least about 1.0 cm.

[0180] The orifice or the diameter or longest dimension of each orifice may be approximately 0.1 cm or less, approximately 0.2 cm or less, approximately 0.3 cm or less, approximately 0.4 cm or less, approximately 0.5 cm or less, approximately 0.6 cm or less, approximately 0.7 cm or less, approximately 0.8 cm or less, approximately 0.9 cm or less, or approximately 1.0 cm or less.

[0181] According to a second aspect of the present invention, a method is provided for using the air passage according to the first aspect together with a negative pressure wound dressing.

[0182] According to a third aspect of the present invention, a negative pressure wound dressing material is provided that includes an air passage according to the first aspect.

[0183] According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, a method for manufacturing an air passage is provided, and this manufacturing method is a. To provide a strip material including a first surface having at least one groove, b. Placing the film to cover the first surface of the strip material. c. Adhere the film to the first surface of the first strip material around the longitudinal edge of the first strip material to form multiple channels between the first strip and the film. Includes.

[0184] Prior to step (a), at least one groove may be formed in the strip material by heat pressing, laser cutting, laser engraving / etching, or thermoforming.

[0185] The strip material may be formed by compression molding or injection molding.

[0186] At least one groove may be multiple grooves.

[0187] In step (c), the film may be bonded to the strip material by lamination. Lamination of the film to the strip may be by heat lamination, pressure lamination, heat and pressure lamination, welding, or adhesive.

[0188] A fifth aspect of the present invention provides a method for using a wound dressing equipped with an air passage according to the first aspect.

[0189] The method may include adhering the wound dressing to the wound, preferably to the skin surrounding the wound.

[0190] The wound dressing may also be a negative pressure wound dressing.

[0191] The present invention may, of course, relate to any of the first to fifth embodiments, but may also individually include one or more features that are either mutually exclusive or not exclusive. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0192] Next, in order to better understand the present invention, one or more embodiments thereof will be described only illustratively with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0193] [Figure 1] This is a plan view of the first embodiment of the air passage. [Figure 2] Figure 1 is a perspective view of a portion of the air passage. [Figure 3] Figure 1 is a side view of the air passage. [Figure 4] Figure 2 is a perspective view of a portion of the air passage, seen from the opposite side. [Figure 5] Figure 4 is a cross-sectional view of the air passage. [Figure 6] Figure 1 is a perspective view of a portion of the air passage. [Figure 7] Figure 6 is a side view of a portion of the air passage, where the film is adhered to the first surface of the strip material. [Figure 8A] This is a front view of an example of a connector used with an air passage. [Figure 8B] Figure 8A is a plan view of the connector. [Figure 8C] This is a rear view of the connector shown in Figure 8A. [Figure 8D] Figure 8A is a bottom view of the connector. [Figure 9A] This is a front view of a further example of a connector used with an air passage. [Figure 9B] Figure 9A is a plan view of the connector. [Figure 9C] This is a rear view of the connector shown in Figure 9A. [Figure 9D] Figure 9A is a bottom view of the connector. [Figure 10A] Figure 9A is a perspective view of the connector. [Figure 10B] Figure 9A is a cross-sectional perspective view of the connector. [Figure 11A] Figure 8A is a perspective view of the connector. [Figure 11B] Figure 8A is a cross-sectional perspective view of the connector. [Figure 12A]This is a partial plan view of a part of an air passage according to a further embodiment that includes the connector shown in Figure 8A. [Figure 12B] Figure 12A is a rear view of a portion of the air passage. [Figure 13A] This is a partial plan view of a part of an air passage according to a further embodiment that includes the connector shown in Figure 9A. [Figure 13B] Figure 13A is a rear view of a portion of the air passage. [Figure 14] This is a plan view of the third embodiment of the air passage. [Figure 15A] Figure 1 is a plan view of an example of multiple grooves used as part of an air passage. [Figure 15B] Figure 1 is a plan view of a further embodiment of multiple grooves used as part of an air passage. [Figure 15C] Figure 1 is a plan view of a further embodiment of multiple grooves used as part of an air passage. [Figure 15D] Figure 1 is a plan view of a further embodiment of multiple grooves used as part of an air passage. [Figure 15E] Figure 1 is a plan view of a further embodiment of multiple grooves used as part of an air passage. [Figure 15F] Figure 1 is a plan view of a further embodiment of multiple grooves used as part of an air passage. [Figure 15G] Figure 1 is a plan view of a further embodiment of multiple grooves used as part of an air passage. [Figure 16] Figure 1 is a plan view of a portion of a negative pressure wound dressing equipped with an air passage. [Figure 17] This is an exploded perspective view of an air passage according to a further embodiment. [Figure 18] Figure 17 is a perspective view of the air passage. [Figure 19] Figure 18 is a cross-sectional perspective view of a portion of the air passage. [Figure 20] Figure 18 is a perspective view of a portion of the air passage. [Figure 21] Figure 18 is a cross-sectional perspective view of a portion of the air passage. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0194] Referring to Figure 1-7, an embodiment of the air passage 1 is shown.

[0195] The air passage 1 may comprise a strip material 2 in the shape of an elongated rectangle, including a first longitudinal edge 2a positioned parallel to a second longitudinal edge 2b. The longitudinal edges 2a and 2b may be joined by an inner tapered portion 11 at the first end 9 and a curved portion at the second end 10. The strip material 2 may have a width of about 15 mm (i.e., the distance between the first longitudinal edge 2a and the second longitudinal edge 2b) and a length of about 300 mm (i.e., the distance from the curved portion of the second end 10 to the end of the tapered portion 11). The strip material 2 may include an upward-facing first surface 3a and a downward-facing second surface 3b. When in use, the first surface 3a may face away from the wound (not shown), and the second surface 3b may face toward the wound.

[0196] The strip material 2 may be formed from a translucent thermoplastic polyurethane, or it may be formed by injection molding.

[0197] The first surface 3a of the strip material 2 may include a grooved area 7 having a plurality of grooves 5 and a plurality of projections 6. The grooved area 7 may have a width equal to about 60% of the width of the strip material 2 and a length equal to about 90% of the length of the strip material 2. The grooved area 7 may be substantially rectangular. At the first end 9 of the strip material 2, the grooved area may terminate at substantially the same point where the strip 2 begins to taper to form a tapered portion 11.

[0198] Multiple grooves 5 may be arranged as an intersecting pattern of grooves 5 in a cross shape, with each groove 5 separated from another groove 5 or another part of a groove 5 by a projection 6. Each projection 6 may extend from the base of a groove 5. Each groove may have a width of 1 mm and a depth of 1.5 mm. The “width” of a groove means the distance between adjacent projections 6 that have a groove 5 in between. The “depth” of a groove means the distance between the upper end face or upper end point of a projection 6 and the base of the groove 5 from which the projection 6 extends. In the embodiment shown in Figure 1, each groove 5 has the same width and depth. The grooves may be formed by laser engraving / etching a strip material 2. The strip material 2 may have a depth of 2.0 mm.

[0199] Each projection may be positioned between each cross-shaped intersecting groove 5. In this embodiment, the projection 6 has a square cross-section in plan view.

[0200] The multiple grooves 5 allow air or another fluid to pass along the air passage 1. Each groove 5 is in fluid communication with each other such that the multiple grooves 5 are in fluid communication with each other and form an interconnected grid. Advantageously, the multiple grooves 5 in this embodiment increase the overall volume of the grooves 5 in the air passage 1. This means that a larger volume of fluid (e.g., air) is transmitted along the air passage 1 in any given time compared to prior art air passages without multiple grooves, particularly those without an intersecting groove pattern. Furthermore, during use, the grid of interconnected grooves 5 maintains a favorable flow rate of fluid along the air passage 1 while the air passage 1 is compressed or under load. Thus, when used, for example, to transmit negative pressure to a wound, the air passage 1 of the present invention maintains negative pressure at the wound even when the air passage 1 is folded and / or compressed by the user.

[0201] The tapered portion 11 may have a tubular portion 12. The tubular portion 12 may extend further from the first end 9 than the tapered portion 11. The tubular portion 12 may have an orifice 12a for receiving a Luer or barb connector (not shown) that can be connected to a pump (not shown) (generally via a portion of medical tubing not shown). The tubular portion 12 may have a depth of 0.8 mm. Thus, the tubular portion 12 may be more rigid than other portions of the air passage 1, facilitating the insertion of the Luer or barb connector. The tubular portion 12 may extend only to a length equal to less than 10% of the length of the air passage 1, for example, about 6%. As shown in Figure 6, the tubular portion 12 may extend into the air passage 1 beyond the point where the strip material 2 begins to tapere. At least one groove 5 is in fluid communication with the tubular portion 12. Thus, when used as part of a negative pressure wound dressing, a pump (not shown) is connected to the tubular portion 12 (for example, via a Luer or barb connector), and when air is drawn towards the pump, the air flows from the wound, along the grooves 5, through the tubular portion 12, and towards the pump. Each groove 5 is in fluid communication with each other, as shown at least in Figures 1, 2, and 6. Thus, the tubular portion 12 only needs to be in fluid communication with at least one groove in order to influence the air passage along all the grooves 5.

[0202] At the second end 10 of the strip material 2, the longitudinal edges 2a and 2b may be joined by an outward curved end. The second end 10 may have a lip 3c that increases the surface area of ​​the second surface 3b of the second end 10 in order to allow the double-sided adhesive 14 to adhere to the second surface 3b. The double-sided adhesive 14 may have a peelable sticker 15 on the wound side to protect the adhesive before use.

[0203] The second end portion 10 may have a cross-shaped opening 13. The opening 13 may be centered relative to the outer circumference of the second end portion 10. The double-sided adhesive 14 may have a cross-shaped opening 14a concentric with the opening 13 of the second end portion 10.

[0204] A cover in the form of a film 4 can be adhered to the first surface 3a of the strip material 2. The film 4 may have substantially the same width and length as the strip material 2, so that the edges of the strip material 2 and the film 4 do not overlap. The film 4 may be adhered to the strip material 2 around the longitudinal edges 2a, 2b of the strip material 2. The film 4 may be adhered to the strip material 2 by thermal lamination. The film 4 may be made of transparent polyurethane. The thickness of the film 4 may be 0.2 mm.

[0205] When the film 4 is bonded to the strip material 2, the multiple grooves 5 form multiple channels 8 (see Figure 7) between the strip 2 and the film 4. Each channel of the multiple channels 8 may be in fluid communication with each other such that the multiple channels 8 are in fluid communication with each other and form a network of interconnected channels. The interconnected channels 8 may be in fluid communication with the orifice 12a of the tubular portion 12 at the first end 9 and may be in fluid communication with the opening 13 at the second end 10. The multiple channels 8 allow the passage of air to or from the wound via a pump used, for example, as part of a negative pressure wound dressing system. Compression of the film 4 toward the strip material 2 is prevented or at least significantly limited by the multiple projections 6 arranged along the groove area 7. Furthermore, when a typical load applies pressure to the film 4, the relatively small width of the multiple grooves 5 prevents or at least significantly limits the compression of the film 4 toward the strip material 2, so that the film 4 does not compress within the grooves 5, or at least only a portion of the grooves 5, and the fluid flow along the grooves 5 is not obstructed. During use, when negative pressure is applied to the wound and air is drawn out of the wound along the multiple channels 8, the film 4 compresses downward toward the channels 8. However, blockage of the channels 8 by the film 4 is prevented by the multiple protrusions 6 that the film 4 compresses. Thus, since the film 4 does not collapse into the channels 8, this arrangement allows for unobstructed passage of air along the channels 8.

[0206] The film 4 may be substantially flat.

[0207] Since the film 4 adheres to the first surface 3a of the strip material 3, the film 4 is not compressed into each groove 5, so it is understood that the dimensions (depth, width, and length) of each channel 8 are substantially the same as the corresponding dimensions of each groove 5.

[0208] As an example of this embodiment in use, a schematic negative pressure wound dressing (partially shown in Figure 16) comprises a pump (not shown) for generating negative pressure and a dressing 3000 for covering and protecting a wound. The dressing comprises a wound contact layer, a backing layer including a peripheral adhesive 3100 for adhering the wound dressing 3000 to the user's skin, and at least one layer of absorbent material between the wound contact layer and the backing layer. In use, a fluid communication path is provided from the wound through the wound contact layer and through one or more layers of absorbent material arranged in the dressing. The fluid communication path may extend through an opening in the backing layer. Advantageously, the fluid communication path can be formed at any suitable location on the wound dressing. Alternatively, if the fluid communication path extends through an opening in the backing layer, the air passage 1 can be adhered to the wound dressing on the backing layer. The opening 13 at the second end 10 of the strip material 2 and the opening 14a of the adhesive panel 14 are concentric with the fluid communication path. A Luer or barb connector is inserted into the tubular portion 12 of the first end 9, and the connector is connected to the pump, possibly via a tube or the like. When the pump is operated, air is drawn from the wound through the fluid communication path, through the wound contact layer and absorbent material, through the opening 14a of the adhesive panel 14 and the opening 13 of the strip material 2, along the multiple channels 8, through the tubular portion 12 and the Luer or barb connector, and towards the pump. In this way, negative pressure is generated at the wound site.

[0209] Figures 8A-D show an example of a connector 16 for use with an air passage 1a (described further below) of a further embodiment that may not have a tubular portion 12. The connector 16 may have an upper surface 16a1 and a lower surface 16b1 joined at their outer circumference. The connector 16 may be substantially circular except for a nozzle 19 protruding from the outer circumference where the upper surface 16a1 and the lower surface 16b1 are joined. The nozzle 19 may have a length of about 10 mm, may protrude outward away from the connector 16, and may have an opening 20 at its distal end. The opening 20 may be in fluid communication with the nozzle 19 and the interior of the connector 16. The lower surface 16b1 may have a circular orifice 21 positioned centrally relative to the outer circumference of the lower surface 16b1. The orifice 21 may be in fluid communication with the nozzle 19 and the opening 20.

[0210] Figures 9A-D and 10A-B show an example of a connector 160 for use with an air passage 1b that may not have a tubular portion 12. The connector 160 may have an upper surface 16a2 and a lower surface 16b2 joined at their outer circumference. The connector 160 may be substantially circular except for a nozzle 190 that protrudes from the outer circumference where the upper surface 16a2 and the lower surface 16b2 join. The nozzle 190 may have a length of about 10 mm, may protrude outward away from the connector 160, and may have an opening 200 at its distal end. The nozzle 190 may have a threaded end 19a surrounding the opening 200. Thus, the connector 160 can be connected to a Luer or barb connector, etc., having a corresponding threaded end for a secure connection. The opening 200 can communicate fluidly with the nozzle 190 and the interior of the connector 160. The lower surface 16b2 may have an orifice 210 that is centrally located relative to the outer circumference of the lower surface 16b2. The orifice 210 can communicate with the nozzle 190 and the opening 200.

[0211] Figures 11A-B show an exemplary embodiment of a connector 16 comprising a filter disc 17 positioned within a nozzle 19. The filter disc 17 may be impermeable to liquids but permeable to gases, and thus can function as a liquid barrier to ensure that wound exudate does not escape from the wound dressing.

[0212] The filter disk 17 may also function as a bacterial barrier.

[0213] The filter disc 17 may include a microporous hydrophobic membrane formed from polypropylene. The filter disc 17 may also include activated carbon as an odor absorbent.

[0214] The filter disk 17 may have multiple pores with an average pore size of 0.5 μm.

[0215] Although not shown in the embodiments described, the filter disk 17 may further include an infection detection indicator and / or a coating replacement indicator.

[0216] In the embodiments shown in Figures 12A, 12B, 13A, and 13B, the air passages 1a and 1b may not have tapered or tubular portions at their first ends. In such embodiments, the air passages 1a and 1b may have at least one opening 13a or 13b at their first end 9 that penetrates the strip material 2. In these embodiments, the connectors 16 and 160 may be arranged such that the orifices 21 and 210 are in fluid communication with the openings at their first ends. The connectors 16 and 160 may be bonded to the second surface 3b of the air passages 1a and 1b (by any suitable means, e.g., the use of an adhesive) so as not to interfere with the film bonded to the first surface. The nozzles 19 and 190 may be connected to the pump via suitable connectors, e.g., Luer or barb connectors, by inserting the nozzles into the Luer or barb connectors, or by inserting the Luer or barb connectors into the nozzles 19 and 190.

[0217] Figures 12A and 12B show a connector 16 bonded to the air passage 1a. The air passage 1a includes a first end 9 having a circular end for joining the longitudinal edges of the air passage 1a. The connector 16 is bonded to the second surface 3b of the air passage 1a at the first end 9. The air passage 1a may have a plurality of openings 13a at the first end 9. In the embodiment described, the first end 9 includes six openings 13a. Each opening 13a may be circular and have a diameter of about 2 mm. The circular orifice 21 can communicate fluidly with the plurality of openings 13a. In embodiments in which the air passage 1a is used as part of a negative pressure wound dressing, one end of a medical tube (not shown) may be friction-fitted around the nozzle 19, and the other end of the medical tube may be connected to a pump. The remaining features of the air passage 1b are substantially the same as those described in relation to the embodiment shown in Figure 1.

[0218] Figures 13A and 13B show a connector 160 bonded to the air passage 1b. The air passage 1b may include a first end 9 having a circular end for joining the longitudinal edges of the air passage 1b. The connector 160 is bonded to the second surface 3b of the air passage 1b at the first end 9. The air passage 1b may include a plurality of openings 13b at the first end 9. In the embodiment described, the first end 9 includes six openings 13b. Each opening 13b may be circular and have a diameter of about 2 mm. The circular orifice 210 can communicate fluidly with the plurality of openings 13b. In embodiments in which the air passage 1b is used as part of a negative pressure wound dressing, one end of a medical tube (not shown) may be friction-fitted around the nozzle 19a, and the other end of the medical tube may be connected to a pump.

[0219] Figure 14 shows the air passage 150 according to the third embodiment.

[0220] The air passage 150 may comprise an elongated strip material 2000 including longitudinal edges 2a00, 2b00, a first surface 3a00, and a second surface (not shown). Many of the features of the air passage 150 are the same as those of the air passage 1 and the air passage 100. However, the air passage 150 differs from the air passage 1 in that it may comprise two separate channel areas 8a, 8b. The air passage 150 may comprise a first channel area 8a and a second channel area 8b. The first channel area 8a may be separated from the second channel area 8b by a seal formed between the film 4000 and the strip material 2000 after or simultaneously with the bonding of the film 4000 to the strip material 2000. The first channel area 8a cannot be in fluid communication with the second channel area 8b. The seal may be formed by thermal lamination. The first channel area 8a may have two cross-shaped channels, and the second channel area 8b may have two cross-shaped channels. Each channel area 8a, 8b may be formed by a combination of grooves and projections, as in the embodiments described above. Advantageously, in this embodiment, the fluid can flow toward the wound through the channels of the first channel area 8a, and the fluid can simultaneously flow away from the wound through the channels of the second channel area 8b.

[0221] Figures 15A to 15G show different embodiments of the groove area 7. Figure 15A shows a groove area 7a having a plurality of grooves 5a and a plurality of separate individual protrusions 6a. The cross-section of each protrusion 6a is circular. Figure 15B shows a groove area 7b having a plurality of grooves 5b and a plurality of separate individual protrusions 6b. The cross-section of each protrusion 6b is hexagonal. Figure 15C shows a groove area 7c having a plurality of grooves 5c and a plurality of separate individual protrusions 6c. The cross-section of each protrusion 6c is rectangular. Figure 15D shows a groove area 7d having a plurality of grooves 5d and a plurality of separate individual protrusions 6d. The cross-section of each protrusion 6d is rhombic. Figure 15E shows a groove area 7e having a plurality of grooves 5e and a plurality of separate individual protrusions 6e. The cross-section of each protrusion 6e is triangular. Figure 15F shows a groove area 7f having a plurality of grooves 5f and a plurality of protrusions 6f. Each protrusion 6f has a linear zigzag shape. Figure 15G shows a grooved area 7g having multiple grooves 5g and multiple separate individual protrusions 6g. The cross-section of each protrusion 6g is square. Each groove may have a width of 0.5 mm and a depth of 1.5 mm.

[0222] Each of the groove areas shown in Figures 15A to 15G, 7a, 7b, 7c, 7d, 7e, and 7g, can similarly be used as part of the air passages shown in Figure 1, Figure 12, or Figure 13.

[0223] Referring to Figures 17 to 21, an air passage 2001 of a further embodiment of the present invention is shown. The air passage 2001 may be used as an adapter 1001 for fitting a surgical wound dressing for use in negative pressure wound treatment. The air passage 2001 may be an elongated and flexible air passage 2001. The air passage 2001 may be formed of a liquid-impermeable material, for example, a material selected from the group including polyurethane, thermoplastic polyurethane, thermoplastic elastomer, polyethylene, polypropylene, polyvinyl chloride, ethylene-vinyl acetate, and silicone materials. In the embodiments described, the air passage 2001 is formed of translucent thermoplastic polyurethane and may be formed by injection molding.

[0224] The maximum width of the air passage 2001 may be greater than the maximum depth of the air passage 2001. The maximum depth of the air passage 2001 may be between 2.0 mm and 5.0 mm. In the described embodiment, the maximum depth of the air passage 2001 is 3.5 mm. In the described embodiment, the maximum width of the air passage 2001 is at least twice the maximum depth of the air passage 2001.

[0225] The air passage 2001 may comprise a first elongated strip material 201 having a pair of longitudinal edges 201a, 201b.

[0226] The first elongated strip material 201 may include a first end 1801 and a second end 4001. The longitudinal edges 201a and 201b may be joined at the first end 1801 by an outward curved portion, the outermost of which forms the end 4a02 of the first end. The longitudinal edges 201a and 201b may be joined by an outward curved portion, the outermost of which forms the end 4a01 of the second end 4001. The second end 4001 may be distal to the first end 1801. The strip material 201 may have a width of about 15 mm (i.e., the distance between the first longitudinal edge 201a and the second longitudinal edge 201b) and a length of about 300 mm (i.e., the distance from the end 4a02 of the first end 1801 to the end 4a01 of the second end 4001).

[0227] The first end 1801 may have a cross-shaped first orifice 3002. The first orifice 3002 may be centered relative to the outer circumference of the first end 1801.

[0228] The strip material 201 may include an upward-facing first surface 210a and a downward-facing second surface. When in use, the first surface 210a may face away from the wound (not shown), and the second surface may face toward the wound.

[0229] The first surface 210a of the strip material 201 may include a grooved area having a plurality of grooves 220 and a plurality of protrusions 240a. The grooved area may have a width equal to about 60% of the width of the strip material 201 and a length equal to about 90% of the length of the strip material 201. The grooved area may be substantially rectangular.

[0230] Multiple grooves 220 may be arranged as an intersecting pattern of cross-shaped grooves 220, with each groove 220 separated from another groove 220 or another part of a groove 220 by projections 240a. Each projection 240a extends from the base of the groove 220. Each groove 220 may have a width of 1 mm and a depth of 1.5 mm. The grooves may be formed by laser engraving / etching the strip material 201. The strip material 201 may have a depth of 2.0 mm.

[0231] The multiple grooves 220 allow air or another fluid to pass along the air passage 2001. Each groove 220 may be in fluid communication with another groove 220 such that the multiple grooves 220 are in fluid communication with each other and form an interconnected grid. Advantageously, the multiple grooves 220 in this embodiment increase the overall volume of the grooves 220 in the air passage 2001. This means that a greater volume of fluid (e.g., air) is transmitted along the air passage 2001 in any given time compared to known air passages of the prior art that do not have multiple grooves, particularly an intersecting groove pattern. Furthermore, during use, the grid of interconnected grooves 220 maintains a favorable flow rate of fluid along the air passage 2001 while the air passage 2001 is compressed or under load. Thus, when used, for example, to transmit negative pressure to a wound, the air passage 2001 of the present invention maintains negative pressure at the wound even when the air passage 2001 is folded and / or compressed by the user.

[0232] The second end 4001 of the first strip material 201 may have a cross-shaped second orifice 3001. The second orifice 3001 may be centered relative to the outer circumference of the second end 4001.

[0233] At least one groove 220 can be in fluid communication with the first orifice 3002 at the first end 1801 and with the second orifice 3001 at the second end 4001.

[0234] The air passage 2001 may include a film 203. The film 203 may be bonded to the first surface 210a of the first strip material 201. The film 203 may have substantially the same width and length as the strip material 201 so that the edges of the strip material 201 or the film 203 do not overlap. The film 203 may be bonded to the strip material 201 at its longitudinal edge. The film 203 may be bonded to the strip material 201 by thermal lamination. The film 203 may be made of transparent or translucent polyurethane. The thickness of the film 203 may be about 0.2 mm.

[0235] When the film 203 is bonded to the first strip material 201, the grooves 220 form a first plurality of channels 205a between the first strip material 201 and the film 203. Each channel of the first plurality of channels 205a may be in fluid communication with each other such that the first plurality of channels 205a are in fluid communication with each other and form a network of interconnected channels. The interconnected channels 205a may be in fluid communication with the first orifice 3002 at the first end 1801 and may be in fluid communication with the second orifice 3001 at the second end 4001.

[0236] The first set of channels 205a allows air to pass to or from the wound via a pump, for example, used as part of a negative pressure wound dressing system. Compression of the film 203 toward the strip material 201 can be prevented or at least significantly limited by the set of projections 240a arranged along the groove area.

[0237] When a typical load applies pressure to the film 203, the width of the multiple grooves 220 is relatively small so that the film 203 does not compress into the grooves 220. This prevents, or at least significantly limits, the compression of the film 203 toward the strip material 201, and ensures that the fluid flow along the grooves 220 is not obstructed.

[0238] The film 203 may be substantially flat.

[0239] The air passage 2001 may include a second strip material 202. The second strip material 202 may be elongated.

[0240] The second strip material 202 may include a first end 1802 and a second end 4002. The second elongated strip material 202 may include a pair of longitudinal edges 202a and 202b. The longitudinal edges 202a and 202b may be joined at the first end 1802 by an outward curved portion, the outermost of which forms the end 4a04 of the first end. The longitudinal edges 202a and 202b may be joined by an outward curved portion, the outermost of which forms the end 4a03 of the second end 4002. The second end 4002 may be distal to the first end 1802. The second strip material 202 may have a width of approximately 15 mm (i.e., the distance between the first longitudinal edge 202a and the second longitudinal edge 202b) and a length of approximately 300 mm (i.e., the distance from the end 4a04 of the first end 1802 to the end 4a03 of the second end 4002).

[0241] The first end 1802 of the second strip material 202 may have a cross-shaped third orifice 3004. The third orifice 3004 may be centered relative to the outer circumference of the first end 1802.

[0242] The second strip material 202 may include a downward-facing first surface 204a and an upward-facing second surface 204b. When in use, the first surface 204a may face toward the wound (not shown), and the second surface 204b may face toward away from the wound.

[0243] The first surface 204a of the second strip material 202 may include a grooved area having a plurality of grooves (not shown) and a plurality of protrusions 240b. The grooved area of ​​the first surface 204a of the second strip material 202 may have the characteristics of the grooved area of ​​the first surface 210a of the first strip material 201. The grooved area may have a width equal to about 60% of the width of the second strip material 202 and a length equal to about 90% of the length of the second strip material 202. The grooved area may be substantially rectangular.

[0244] Multiple grooves may be arranged as an intersecting pattern of grooves in a cross shape, with each groove separated from another groove or another part of a groove by projections 240b. Each projection 240b may extend from the base of the groove. Each groove may have a width of 1 mm and a depth of 1.5 mm. The grooves may be formed by laser engraving / etching the strip material 202. The strip material 202 may have a depth of 2.0 mm.

[0245] Each groove may be in fluid communication with each other such that multiple grooves are in fluid communication with each other to form an interconnected grid. Advantageously, the multiple grooves in this embodiment increase the overall volume of the grooves in the air passage 2001. This means that a greater volume of fluid (e.g., air) is transmitted along the air passage 2001 in any given time compared to air passages of the prior art that do not have multiple grooves, particularly an intersecting groove pattern. Furthermore, during use, the grid of interconnected grooves maintains a favorable flow rate of fluid along the air passage 2001 while the air passage 2001 is compressed and while the air passage 2001 is under load. Thus, for example, when used to transmit negative pressure to a wound, the air passage 2001 of the present invention maintains negative pressure at the wound even when the air passage 2001 is folded and / or compressed by the user.

[0246] The second end portion 4002 may have a cross-shaped fourth orifice 3003. The fourth orifice 3003 may be centrally located relative to the outer circumference of the second end portion 4002.

[0247] At least one groove may be in fluid communication with the third orifice 3004 at the first end 1802 of the second strip material 202, and may be in fluid communication with the fourth orifice 3003 at the second end 4002 of the second strip material 202.

[0248] The air passage 2001 may comprise a second strip material 202 such that its first surface 204a covers the film 203. The first surface 204a of the second strip 202 may be bonded to the film 203 around its longitudinal edges 202a, 202b (e.g., by adhesive, or alternatively by thermal lamination). Once the second strip material 202 is bonded to the film 203, the grooves form a second plurality of channels 205b between the second strip material 202 and the film 203. Each channel of the second plurality of channels 205b may be in fluid communication with each other such that the second plurality of channels 205b form a network of interconnected channels that are in fluid communication with one another. The interconnected channels 205b can be in fluid communication with the third orifice 3004 at the first end 1802 and with the fourth orifice 3003 at the second end 4002.

[0249] The outer circumference dimension of the second strip material 202 may be substantially equal to the outer circumference dimension of the first strip material 201.

[0250] Multiple channels 205b allow air to pass to or from the wound via a pump, for example, used as part of a negative pressure wound dressing system. Compression of the film 203 toward the strip material 202 can be prevented or at least significantly limited by multiple protrusions 240b arranged along the groove area.

[0251] When a typical load applies pressure to the film 203, the relatively small width of the multiple grooves prevents or at least significantly limits the compression of the film 203 toward the strip material 202, so that the film 203 does not compress into the grooves, or at least only compresses a portion of the grooves, and the fluid flow along the grooves is not obstructed.

[0252] In the embodiment described, the first plurality of channels 205a formed between the first strip material 201 and the film 203 are not in fluid communication with the second plurality of channels 205b formed between the second strip material 202 and the film 203.

[0253] The first orifice 3002 contained in the first strip 201 and the third orifice 3004 contained in the second strip 202 cannot communicate with each other fluidly and can be separated from each other by the film 203.

[0254] The second orifice 3001 contained in the first strip 201 and the fourth orifice 3003 contained in the second strip 202 cannot communicate with each other fluidly and can be separated from each other by the film 203.

[0255] In some embodiments, the air passage 2001 may include a sealing portion 601. The air passage 2001 may include a sealing portion 601 that is toward the second ends 4001, 4002 of the air passage 2001, but distal to the ends 4a01, 4a03 of the second ends 4001, 4002 compared to the position of the orifices 3001, 3003. Thus, the orifices 3001, 3003 may be positioned between the ends 4a01, 4a03 of the second ends 4001, 4002 and the sealing portion 601. The length of the air passage 2001 from the ends 4a01, 4a03 of the second ends 4001, 4002 to the sealing portion 601 may be about 5 cm or less. In the embodiments described, the length of the air passage 2001 from the ends 4a01, 4a03 to the sealing portion 601 is about 2 cm.

[0256] During use, the sealing portion 601 provides a surface for adhering the adapter 1001 to the underside of the surgical wound dressing, such as the peripheral adhesive skin contact layer of the surgical wound dressing. The sealing portion 601 can also provide a surface for adhering the adapter 1001 to the skin surrounding the patient's wound.

[0257] The sealing portion 601 may provide a surface for adhering the air passage 2001 to the backing layer of the wound dressing, thereby providing a fluid communication path during use, from the wound through the wound contact layer and through one or more layers of absorbent material arranged within the dressing. The fluid communication path may extend through an opening in the backing layer. Advantageously, the fluid communication path may be formed at any suitable location on the wound dressing.

[0258] The sealing portion 601 may include an upper sealing surface 601a and a lower sealing surface 601b. When in use, the upper sealing surface 601a may provide a surface for adhering the adapter 1001 to the underside of the surgical wound dressing, such as the peripheral adhesive skin contact layer of the surgical wound dressing. When in use, the lower sealing surface 601b may provide a surface for adhering the adapter 1001 to the skin around the patient's wound. In this way, the sealing portion 601 of the adapter 1001 is configured to provide a complete periphery seal between the surgical wound dressing and the patient.

[0259] The lower sealing surface 601b may have an adhesive layer (not shown) that can be covered with a peelable release liner (not shown) before use. The peelable release liner can prevent accidental exposure of the adhesive layer before use, which may otherwise be detrimental to the adhesive properties of the adhesive layer.

[0260] The upper sealing surface 601a may have a first wing 601c and a second wing 601d. The lower sealing surface 601b may have a third wing 601e and a fourth wing 601f. Each wing 601c, 601d, 601e, and 601f may extend outward from the air passage 2001 in a direction perpendicular to the length of the air passage 2001. Each wing 601c, 601d, 601e, and 601f may extend outward by a distance of approximately 1.5 cm from each longitudinal edge of the air passage 2001 such that the width of the sealing portion 601, i.e., the length from the outermost point of the first wing 601c and the third wing 601e to the outermost point of the second wing 601d and the fourth wing 601f, is approximately 5 cm. Each wing curves outward by a distance of approximately 1.5 cm from each longitudinal edge of the air passage 2001, with the straight portion of the first wing 601c being parallel to the straight portion of the second wing 601d, and the straight portion of the third wing 601e being parallel to the straight portion of the fourth wing 601f. Each wing extends linearly for a distance of approximately 3 cm relative to the length of the air passage 2001 and curves toward each longitudinal edge of the air passage 2001.

[0261] The upper surface of the first wing 601c and the upper surface of the second wing 601d may each include a portion of the upper sealing surface 601a. ​​The lower surface of the third wing 601e and the lower surface of the fourth wing 601f may each include a portion of the lower sealing surface 601b. The upper sealing surface 601a may be substantially planar so as to provide a substantially flat upper surface with respect to the air passage 2001. The lower sealing surface 601b may be substantially planar so as to provide a substantially flat lower surface with respect to the air passage 2001.

[0262] The first end 1801 of the first strip material 201 may have a first connector 901 bonded to its second surface. The first connector 901 may have a nozzle 901a having an opening 901b, and a surface including an orifice 901c arranged in fluid communication with the opening 901b. The first connector 901 may be arranged such that the orifice 901c is in fluid communication with the first orifice 3002 at the first end 1801 of the first strip 201. Thus, the first plurality of channels 205a can be in fluid communication with the orifice 901c of the first connector 901, and therefore can also be in fluid communication with the opening of the nozzle 901b.

[0263] The first end 1802 of the second strip material 202 may have a second connector 902 bonded to its upward-facing second surface 204b. The second connector 902 may have a nozzle 902a having an opening 902b and a surface including an orifice 902c that is in fluid communication with the opening 902b. The second connector 902 may be arranged such that the orifice 902c is in fluid communication with the third orifice 3004 at the first end 1802 of the second strip material 202. Thus, the second plurality of channels 205b can be in fluid communication with the orifice 902c of the second connector 902 and therefore can also be in fluid communication with the opening of the nozzle 902b.

[0264] A pump (not shown) may be connected to one or each of the first and second connectors 901, 902 (for example, via a Luer or barb connector and medical tubing).

[0265] Thus, when using the air passage 2001, i.e., when used as an adapter 1001 for fitting a surgical wound dressing for use in negative pressure wound treatment, a pump (not shown) may be connected to the first connector 901 (e.g., via a Luer or barb connector and medical tubing), and air may be drawn toward the pump. The passage of air may flow toward the pump from the wound, through the second orifice 3001, along the first multiple channels 205a, through the first orifice 3002, through the orifice 901c of the first connector 901, along the nozzle 901a, through the opening 901b, and along any medical tubing.

[0266] Furthermore, the embodiments shown in Figures 17 to 21, as described above, enable the delivery of a fluid (e.g., air) to the wound and the simultaneous drawing of air from the wound. For example, a pump (not shown) may be connected to the second connector 902 (e.g., via a Luer or barb connector and medical tubing), and air may be delivered from the pump toward the wound. The passage of air may flow from the pump toward the wound along any medical tubing, through the opening 902b of the nozzle 902a of the second connector 902, through the orifice 902c of the second connector 902, through the third orifice 3004, along the second plurality of channels 205b, through the fourth orifice 3003.

[0267] Any of the air passages in the embodiments described above may be used in conjunction with negative pressure wound dressings or standard wound dressings to apply negative pressure therapy, positive pressure therapy, oxygen therapy, or deep wound filling, or other treatments requiring fluid flow to and / or from the wound.

[0268] One or more embodiments are described above for illustrative purposes only. Many modifications are possible without departing from the scope of protection provided by the appended claims.

Claims

1. An air passage for a negative pressure wound dressing, wherein the air passage comprises a first strip material having a first surface having at least one groove, the air passage further comprises a film disposed to cover the first surface of the first strip material and bonded to the first strip material around the longitudinal edge of the first strip material, the at least one groove being provided with at least one projection for forming at least two channels between the first strip and the film, and the air passage further comprises a second strip material having a first surface having at least one groove provided with at least one projection, the first surface of the second strip material being disposed to cover the film and bonded to the film around the longitudinal edge of the second strip material to form at least two channels between the second strip and the film.

2. The at least one groove contained in the first surface of the first strip material is provided with a plurality of protrusions, thereby providing a plurality of channels between the first strip and the film, and / or the at least one groove contained in the first surface of the second strip is provided with a plurality of protrusions, thereby providing a plurality of channels between the second strip and the film. The air passage according to claim 1.

3. At least two channels between the first strip material and the film are in fluid communication with each other, and / or at least two channels between the second strip material and the film are in fluid communication with each other. The air passage according to claim 2.

4. The channels between the first strip material and the film form a network of interconnected channels, and / or the channels between the second strip material and the film form a network of interconnected channels. The air passage described in claim 3.

5. The air passage comprises a first end having an orifice that can function as either an inlet or outlet for fluid flow, and a second end having an orifice that can function as the other of the inlet or outlet for fluid flow. An air passage according to any one of claims 1 to 4.

6. The orifice at the first end is in fluid communication with the orifice at the second end via the channel between the first strip material and the film, or via the channel between the second strip material and the film. The air passage described in claim 5.

7. The plurality of channels between the first strip material and the film are arranged as an intersecting channel pattern, and / or the plurality of channels between the second strip material and the film are arranged as an intersecting channel pattern. An air passage according to any one of claims 2 to 4.

8. The channel intersection pattern between the first strip material and the film includes a plurality of cross-shaped intersecting channels, and / or the channel intersection pattern between the second strip material and the film includes a plurality of cross-shaped intersecting channels. The air passage described in claim 7.

9. The plurality of channels between the first strip material and the film are arranged as channels in a zigzag pattern, and / or the plurality of channels between the second strip material and the film are arranged as channels in a zigzag pattern. The air passage according to claim 7 or 8.

10. The at least two channels between the first strip material and the film include channels arranged parallel to each other, and / or the at least two channels between the second strip material and the film include channels arranged parallel to each other. The air passage according to claim 1.

11. The aforementioned projection or each projection extends from the groove or the base of each groove, An air passage according to any one of claims 1 to 10.

12. The groove or each groove forms a total groove area having a width equal to at least 50% of the width of the air passage. An air passage according to any one of claims 1 to 11.

13. The at least two channels between the first strip material and the film include at least a first channel and a second channel, wherein the first channel is not in fluid communication with the second channel, and / or the at least two channels between the second strip material and the film include at least a first channel and a second channel, wherein the first channel is not in fluid communication with the second channel. An air passage according to any one of claims 1 to 12.

14. The first channel and the second channel between the first strip material and the film are separated by a seal between the strip and the film, and / or the first channel and the second channel between the second strip material and the film are separated by a seal between the second strip and the film. The air passage according to claim 13.

15. The film is laminated to the first strip material and / or the second strip material. An air passage according to any one of claims 1 to 14.

16. The air passage is provided with a first end, the first end including a filter, an infection detection indicator and / or a coating replacement indicator. An air passage according to any one of claims 1 to 15.

17. The first end includes a connector for connecting the air passage to the pump. The air passage according to claim 16.

18. The filter, infection detection indicator and / or coating replacement indicator are formed integrally with the connector. The air passage according to claim 16 or 17.

19. The filter, infection detection indicator and / or coating replacement indicator and / or connector are attached to the first surface of the first strip material. The air passage according to any one of claims 16 to 18.

20. The filter, infection detection indicator and / or coating replacement indicator and / or connector is attached to the second surface of the first strip material and is in fluid communication with the first surface through one or more openings in the strip material. The air passage according to any one of claims 16 to 18.

21. The air passage is provided with a second end, the second end including an adhesive panel for adhering the air passage to a wound dressing. The air passage according to any one of claims 16 to 18.

22. The at least two channels between the first strip material and the film are not in fluid communication with the at least two channels between the second strip material and the film. An air passage according to any one of claims 1 to 21.

23. The first connector connects the at least two channels between the first strip material and the film to the first medical tube and the lumen between them. An air passage according to any one of claims 17 to 20.

24. The orifice at the first end is a first orifice, and the at least two channels between the first strip material and the film are in fluid communication with the first orifice, and furthermore, the air passage includes a first orifice at the first end of the second strip, and the at least two channels between the second strip and the film are in fluid communication with the first orifice at the first end of the second strip. The air passage according to claim 5 or 6.

25. The first orifice at the first end of the first strip is separated from the first orifice at the first end of the second strip by the film. The air passage according to claim 24.

26. The at least one groove contained in the first strip material is formed by heat pressing, laser cutting, laser engraving, or thermoforming. An air passage according to any one of claims 1 to 25.

27. The at least one groove contained in the second strip material is formed by heat pressing, laser cutting, laser engraving, or thermoforming. An air passage according to any one of claims 1 to 26.

28. A method for using the air passage described in any one of claims 1 to 27 together with a negative pressure wound dressing.

29. A negative pressure wound dressing comprising an air passage according to any one of claims 1 to 27.

30. A method for manufacturing an air passage, a. To provide a first strip material including a first surface having a plurality of grooves, b. Arranging the film to cover the first surface of the first strip material, c. Adhering the film to the first surface of the first strip material around the longitudinal edge of the first strip material to form a plurality of channels between the first strip and the film. d. To provide a second strip material including a first surface having a plurality of grooves. e. Arranging the second strip material such that the first surface of the second strip material covers the film. f. Adhesion of the first surface of the second strip material to the film around the longitudinal edge of the second strip material to form a plurality of channels between the second strip material and the film. A manufacturing method that includes this.

31. A method for using a wound dressing comprising an air passage as described in any one of claims 1 to 27.

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