Systems and methods for drip purging

Abstract

To provide an apparatus for treating tissue with negative pressure and instillation therapy.SOLUTION: An apparatus for treating a tissue site comprises: a negative-pressure source configured to be fluidly coupled to the tissue site; an instillation source configured to be fluidly coupled to the tissue site; and a controller operatively coupled to the negative-pressure source and to the instillation source. The controller can be configured to operate the negative-pressure source and the instillation source to intermittently deliver negative pressure to the tissue site for a negative-pressure interval and deliver instillation fluid to the tissue site for an instillation interval. A purge volume of instillation fluid may be delivered to the tissue site at a purge frequency. In some examples, the purge volume may be delivered through the second fluid conductor and removed through the first fluid conductor during a negative-pressure interval.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 4

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 797,035, filed January 25, 2019, which is incorporated herein by reference for all purposes.

[0002] FIELD OF THE INVENTION The present invention as recited in the accompanying claims relates generally to tissue treatment systems and more particularly, but not exclusively, to treating tissue using negative pressure and drip therapy. [Background technology]

[0003] Clinical research and clinical practice have shown that reducing pressure proximal to a tissue site can enhance and accelerate the growth of new tissue at that tissue site. While the applications of this phenomenon are numerous, it has proven particularly advantageous for treating wounds. Regardless of the etiology of the wound, whether traumatic, surgical, or otherwise, proper wound care is important to the outcome. Treatment of wounds or other tissues with reduced pressure may generally be referred to as "negative pressure therapy," but is also known by other names, including, for example, "negative pressure wound therapy," "reduced pressure therapy," "vacuum therapy," "vacuum-assisted closure," and "topical negative pressure." Negative pressure therapy can provide several benefits, including epithelial and subcutaneous tissue migration, improved blood flow, and microdeformation of tissue at the wound site. Collectively, these benefits can promote the development of granulation tissue and shorten healing time.

[0004] It is also widely accepted that cleansing a tissue site can be highly beneficial to new tissue growth. For example, a wound or cavity can be washed with a liquid solution for therapeutic purposes. These actions are commonly referred to as "irrigation" and "lavage." "Dripping" is another action that generally refers to the process of slowly introducing a fluid into a tissue site and leaving the fluid there for a predetermined period of time before removing it. For example, dripping a topical treatment solution over a wound bed can be combined with negative pressure therapy to further promote wound healing by loosening soluble contaminants in the wound bed and removing infectious materials. As a result, the soluble bacterial load can be reduced, contaminants can be removed, and the wound can be cleansed.

[0005] While the clinical benefits of negative pressure and drip therapy are widely known, improvements in treatment systems, components, and processes can benefit healthcare providers and patients. Summary of the Invention

[0006] Novel and useful systems, devices, and methods for treating tissue using negative pressure, instillation of therapeutic solutions, or both are set forth in the accompanying claims. Exemplary embodiments are also presented that will enable one of ordinary skill in the art to make and use the claimed subject matter.

[0007] For example, in some embodiments, the treatment device may be capable of intermittently delivering various instillation solutions to the wound bed. The instillation of the solution may occur during pauses in the negative pressure, allowing the solution to soak and solubilize wound debris for a period of time. The solution and solubilized debris can be removed during subsequent cycles of negative pressure. The treatment device may further include a controller configured to provide intermittent purge cycles of the vacuum tubing during the negative pressure phase to minimize wound fluid buildup and potential blockages. Additionally or alternatively, the controller may be configured to provide intermittent purge cycles of the instillation tubing using a relatively small amount of instillation solution to minimize material buildup at the interface between the dressing and the tubing. The software control may provide a user interface for setting various levels of instillation purge. For example, the level may depend on the type of instillation solution and other factors related to wound etiology, which may affect viscosity and other exudate characteristics.

[0008] More generally, an apparatus for treating a tissue site may include a negative pressure source configured to be fluidly coupled to the tissue site, a drip source configured to be fluidly coupled to the tissue site, and a controller operably coupled to the negative pressure source and the drip source. In some examples, the negative pressure source may be coupled to a first fluid conduit configured to be coupled to the dressing, and the drip source may be coupled to a second fluid conduit configured to be coupled to the dressing. The controller may be configured to operate the negative pressure source and the drip source to intermittently deliver negative pressure to the tissue site during a negative pressure period and to deliver a drip fluid to the tissue site during a drip period. A purge volume of the drip fluid may be delivered to the tissue site at a purge frequency. In some examples, the purge volume may be delivered via the second fluid conduit and removed via the first fluid conduit during the negative pressure period.

[0009] A method of treating a tissue site with negative pressure and a therapeutic solution can include delivering negative pressure to the tissue site for a first period of time, delivering a therapeutic solution to the tissue site for a second period of time, and delivering a purge volume of the therapeutic solution to the tissue site during the first period of time. Alternatively, the purge volume can be delivered before the first period of time. The purge volume can be removed by the negative pressure during the first period of time.

[0010] The objects, advantages and preferred modes of making and using the claimed subject matter will best be understood by referring to the accompanying drawings in conjunction with the following detailed description of illustrative embodiments. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0011] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a functional block diagram of an exemplary embodiment of a treatment system capable of providing negative pressure treatment and drip treatment in accordance with the present disclosure.

[0012] [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a graph showing further details of an exemplary pressure control mode that may be associated with some embodiments of the treatment system of FIG.

[0013] [Figure 3] FIG. 3 is a graph showing further details that may be associated with another exemplary pressure control mode in some embodiments of the treatment system of FIG.

[0014] [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a chart illustrating details that may be relevant to an exemplary method of operating the treatment system of FIG.

[0015] [Figure 5] FIG. 5 is a graph showing further details of another exemplary control mode that may be associated with some embodiments of the treatment system of FIG. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0016] The following description of exemplary embodiments provides information to enable one of ordinary skill in the art to make and use the claimed subject matter, but may omit certain details already known in the art. Therefore, the following detailed description is to be construed as illustrative and not limiting.

[0017] Example embodiments may also be described herein with reference to spatial relationships between or spatial orientations of various elements as shown in the accompanying drawings. Generally, such relationships or orientations assume a frame of reference that is consistent with or relative to a patient in a position to receive treatment. However, as should be recognized by those skilled in the art, this frame of reference is merely a convenience for purposes of explanation, rather than a strict prescription.

[0018] Treatment System

[0019] FIG. 1 is a simplified functional block diagram of an exemplary embodiment of a treatment system 100 capable of providing negative pressure therapy involving the instillation of a topical treatment solution to a tissue site in accordance with the present disclosure.

[0020] The term "tissue site," in this context, broadly refers to a wound, defect, or other treatment target located on or within tissue, including, but not limited to, bone tissue, adipose tissue, muscle tissue, nerve tissue, dermal tissue, vascular tissue, connective tissue, cartilage, tendon, or ligament. Wounds can include, for example, chronic, acute, traumatic, subacute, and dehiscence wounds, partial-thickness burns, ulcers (such as diabetic ulcers, pressure ulcers, or venous insufficiency ulcers), flap wounds, and transplanted tissue. The term "tissue site" can also refer to any area of tissue, not necessarily a wound or defect, but instead where it may be desirable to add or promote the growth of additional tissue. For example, negative pressure can be applied to a tissue site to grow additional tissue, which can then be harvested and transplanted.

[0021] Treatment system 100 may include a source or supply of negative pressure, such as negative pressure source 105, and one or more distribution components. The distribution components are preferably detachable and may be disposable, reusable, or recyclable. Dressings, such as dressing 110, and fluid containers, such as container 115, are examples of distribution components that may be associated with some embodiments of treatment system 100. As shown in the example of FIG. 1, dressing 110 may include or consist essentially of tissue interface 120, cover 125, or both in some embodiments.

[0022] A fluid conduit is another illustrative example of a distribution component. In this context, "fluid conduit" broadly includes a tube, pipe, hose, conduit, or other structure having one or more lumens or open passages adapted to transport fluid between two ends. Typically, a tube is an elongated, cylindrical structure with some flexibility, but the geometry and stiffness can vary. Furthermore, some fluid conduits may be molded into or otherwise integrally combined with other components. A distribution component may also include or comprise an interface or fluid port to facilitate coupling and decoupling of other components. In some embodiments, for example, a dressing interface may facilitate coupling a fluid conduit to a dressing 110. For example, such a dressing interface may be a SENSAT.RAC™ Pad, available from Kinetic Concepts, Inc. of San Antonio, Texas.

[0023] The treatment system 100 may also include a regulator or controller, such as a controller 130. Additionally, the treatment system 100 may include sensors that measure operating parameters and provide feedback signals indicative of the operating parameters to the controller 130. For example, as shown in FIG. 1, the treatment system 100 may include a first sensor 135 and a second sensor 140 coupled to the controller 130.

[0024] Treatment system 100 may also include a dripping solution source. In some examples, the dripping source may include a solution source operably coupled to a positive pressure source. For example, solution source 145 may be fluidly coupled to dressing 110, as shown in the exemplary embodiment of FIG. 1 . In some embodiments, solution source 145 may be fluidly coupled to a pump or other positive pressure source, such as positive pressure source 150, a negative pressure source, such as negative pressure source 105, or both. A regulator, such as dripping regulator 155, may also be fluidly coupled to solution source 145 and dressing 110 to ensure proper administration of dripping solution (e.g., saline) to the tissue site. For example, dripping regulator 155 may include a piston that may be pneumatically actuated by negative pressure source 105 to draw dripping solution from the solution source during periods of negative pressure and drip solution onto the dressing during periods of aeration. Additionally or alternatively, controller 130 may be coupled to negative pressure source 105, positive pressure source 150, or both to control the administration of instillation solution to the tissue site. In some embodiments, instillation regulator 155 may also be fluidly coupled to negative pressure source 105 through dressing 110, as shown in the example of FIG. 1.

[0025] Some components of the treatment system 100 may be housed within or used in conjunction with other components, such as sensors, processing units, alarm indicators, memory, databases, software, display devices, or user interfaces that further facilitate treatment. For example, in some embodiments, the negative pressure source 105 may be combined with the controller 130, the solution source 145, and other components into a treatment unit.

[0026] In general, components of therapy system 100 may be directly or indirectly coupled. For example, negative pressure source 105 may be directly coupled to reservoir 115 or indirectly coupled to dressing 110 via reservoir 115. Coupling may include fluid, mechanical, thermal, electrical, or chemical coupling (e.g., chemical bonding), or some combination of couplings, depending on the context. For example, negative pressure source 105 may be electrically coupled to controller 130 and fluidly coupled to one or more distribution components to provide a fluid pathway to the tissue site. In some embodiments, components may also be coupled by physical proximity, integrated into a single structure, or formed from the same piece of material.

[0027] A negative pressure source, such as negative pressure source 105, can be a reservoir of air at negative pressure or can be a manual or powered device, such as a vacuum pump, a suction pump, a wall suction port available in many healthcare facilities, or a micropump. "Negative pressure" generally refers to a pressure that is lower than the local ambient pressure, such as the ambient pressure in the local environment outside the sealed treatment environment. In many cases, the local ambient pressure can also be the atmospheric pressure at the tissue site. Alternatively, the pressure can be lower than the hydrostatic pressure associated with the tissue at the tissue site. Unless otherwise indicated, pressure values described herein are gauge pressures. An increase in negative pressure typically refers to a decrease in absolute pressure, whereas a decrease in negative pressure typically refers to an increase in absolute pressure. The amount and nature of the negative pressure provided by the negative pressure source 105 can vary depending on the treatment requirements, but the pressure is typically a low vacuum, also commonly referred to as a rough vacuum, between -5 mmHg (-667 Pa) and -500 mmHg (-66.7 kPa). A typical treatment range is between -50 mmHg (-6.7 kPa) and -300 mmHg (-39.9 kPa).

[0028] Container 115 represents a container, canister, pouch, or other storage component that can be used to process exudate and other fluids drawn from a tissue site. In many environments, a rigid container may be preferred or required for fluid collection, storage, and disposal. In other environments, fluids may be properly disposed of without being stored in a rigid container, and reusable containers may also reduce waste and costs associated with negative pressure therapy.

[0029] A controller, such as controller 130, may be a microprocessor or computer programmed to operate one or more components of treatment system 100, such as negative pressure source 105. For example, in some embodiments, controller 130 may be a microcontroller, which generally comprises an integrated circuit including a processor core and memory, programmed to directly or indirectly control one or more operating parameters of treatment system 100. The operating parameters may include, for example, the power applied to negative pressure source 105, the pressure generated by negative pressure source 105, or the pressure delivered to tissue interface 120. Controller 130 is also preferably configured to receive one or more input signals, such as feedback signals, and is programmed to modify one or more operating parameters based on the input signals.

[0030] Sensors, such as first sensor 135 and second sensor 140, are generally known in the art as any device operable to detect or measure a physical phenomenon or characteristic and generally provide a signal indicative of the detected or measured phenomenon or characteristic. For example, first sensor 135 and second sensor 140 can be configured to measure one or more operating parameters of treatment system 100. In some embodiments, first sensor 135 may be a transducer configured to measure pressure in the air path and convert the measurement into a signal indicative of the measured pressure. In some embodiments, for example, first sensor 135 may be a piezoresistive strain gauge. In some embodiments, second sensor 140 may optionally measure an operating parameter of negative pressure source 105, such as voltage or current. Preferably, signals from first sensor 135 and second sensor 140 are suitable as input signals to controller 130, although in some embodiments, some signal conditioning may be appropriate. For example, the signals may need to be filtered or amplified before they can be processed by controller 130. Typically, the signal is an electrical signal, but may be represented in other forms, such as an optical signal.

[0031] Tissue interface 120 can generally be adapted to partially or completely contact the tissue site. Tissue interface 120 can take many forms and can have many sizes, shapes, or thicknesses, depending on various factors, such as the type of procedure being performed or the nature and size of the tissue site. For example, the size and shape of tissue interface 120 can be adapted to the contours of a deep, irregularly shaped tissue site. Any or all of the surfaces of tissue interface 120 can have an uneven, rough, or jagged profile.

[0032] In some embodiments, tissue interface 120 may include or consist essentially of a manifold. A manifold in this context may include or consist essentially of a means for collecting or distributing fluid under pressure across tissue interface 120. For example, the manifold may be adapted to receive negative pressure from a source and distribute the negative pressure across tissue interface 120 via a plurality of openings, which may have the effect of collecting fluid across the tissue site and drawing the fluid toward the source. In some embodiments, the fluid path may be reversed, or a secondary fluid path may be provided to facilitate delivery of fluid, such as fluid from a dripping solution source across the tissue site.

[0033] In some exemplary embodiments, the manifold may include multiple passages that can be interconnected to improve fluid distribution or collection. In some exemplary embodiments, the manifold may include or consist essentially of a porous material having interconnected fluid passages. Examples of suitable porous materials that can be adapted to form interconnected fluid passages (e.g., channels) include cellular foams, including open-cell foams such as reticulated foams; porous tissue aggregates; and other porous materials, such as gauze or felt mats, that generally include pores, edges, and / or walls. Liquids, gels, and other foams may also include, or be hardened to include, openings and fluid passages. In some embodiments, the manifold may additionally or alternatively include protrusions that form the interconnected fluid passages. For example, the manifold may be molded to provide surface protrusions that define the interconnected fluid passages.

[0034] In some embodiments, the tissue interface 120 may include or consist essentially of a reticulated foam having a pore size and free volume that can be varied depending on the needs of a given treatment. For example, a reticulated foam with at least 90% free volume may be suitable for many treatment applications, and a foam with an average pore size in the range of 400-600 micrometers (40-50 pores per inch) may be particularly suitable for some types of treatment. The tensile strength of the tissue interface 120 may also be varied depending on the needs of a given treatment. For example, the tensile strength of the foam may be increased to accommodate the instillation of a topical treatment solution. The 25% compressive load deflection of the tissue interface 120 may be at least 0.35 pounds per square inch, and the 65% compressive load deflection may be at least 0.43 pounds per square inch. In some embodiments, the tensile strength of the tissue interface 120 may be at least 10 pounds per square inch. The tissue interface 120 may have a tear strength of at least 2.5 pounds per square inch. In some embodiments, the tissue interface may be a foam composed of a polyol, such as a polyester or polyether, an isocyanate, such as toluene diisocyanate, and a polymerization modifier, such as an amine or a tin compound. In some examples, the tissue interface 120 may be a reticulated polyurethane foam, such as found in GRANUFOAM™ dressings or VACVERAFLO™ dressings, both available from Kinetic Concepts, Inc. (San Antonio, Texas).

[0035] The thickness of the tissue interface 120 may also vary depending on the needs of a given treatment. For example, the thickness of the tissue interface may be reduced to reduce tension on the surrounding tissue. The thickness of the tissue interface 120 may also affect the conformability of the tissue interface 120. In some embodiments, a thickness in the range of about 5 millimeters to 10 millimeters may be suitable.

[0036] The tissue interface 120 can be either hydrophobic or hydrophilic. In embodiments in which the tissue interface 120 can be hydrophilic, the tissue interface 120 can also wick fluid away from the tissue site while continuing to distribute negative pressure to the tissue site. The wicking properties of the tissue interface 120 can attract and wick fluid away from the tissue site by capillary flow or other wicking mechanisms. One example of a hydrophilic material that may be suitable is a polyvinyl alcohol, open-cell foam, such as VACWHITEFOAM™ dressing available from Kinetic Concepts, Inc. (San Antonio, Texas). Other hydrophilic foams can include those made from polyethers. Other foams that can exhibit hydrophilic properties include hydrophobic foams that have been treated or coated to impart hydrophilic properties.

[0037] In some embodiments, the tissue interface 120 can be constructed from a bioresorbable material. Suitable bioresorbable materials include, but are not limited to, polymer blends of polylactic acid (PLA) and polyglycolic acid (PGA). Polymer blends can also include, but are not limited to, polycarbonate, polyfumarate, and caprolactone. The tissue interface 120 can also function as a scaffold for new cell growth, or the tissue interface 120 can be used in conjunction with a scaffold material to promote cell growth. A scaffold is generally a substance or structure used to enhance or promote cell growth or tissue formation, such as a three-dimensional porous structure that provides a template for cell growth. Examples of scaffold materials include calcium phosphate, collagen, PLA / PGA, coral hydroxyapatite, carbonate, or engineered allograft materials.

[0038] In some embodiments, the cover 125 can provide a barrier against bacteria and protection from physical trauma. The cover 125 can also be constructed from a material capable of reducing evaporative loss and providing a fluid seal between two components or between two environments, such as between a treatment environment and a local external environment. The cover 125 can include or consist of, for example, an elastomeric film or membrane capable of providing an adequate seal to maintain negative pressure at the tissue site for a given negative pressure source. The cover 125, in some applications, can have a high moisture-vapor transmission rate (MVTR). For example, the MVTR in some embodiments is at least 250 grams per square meter (g / m) per 24 hours measured using the upright cup technique according to ASTM E96 / E96M Upright Cup Method at 38°C and 10% relative humidity (RH). 2 / 24 hours). In some embodiments, up to 5,000 g / m 2 / 24 hour MVTR can provide effective breathability and mechanical properties.

[0039] In some exemplary embodiments, the cover 125 may be a polymer drape, such as a polyurethane film, that is permeable to water vapor but impermeable to liquids. Such drapes typically have a thickness in the range of 25 to 50 microns. For permeable materials, the permeability should generally be low enough to maintain the desired negative pressure. The cover 125 may include, for example, one or more of the following materials: polyurethanes (PU), such as hydrophilic polyurethanes; cellulose derivatives; hydrophilic polyamides; polyvinyl alcohols; polyvinylpyrrolidones; hydrophilic acrylics; silicones, such as hydrophilic silicone elastomers; natural rubber; polyisoprene; styrene butadiene rubber; chloroprene rubber; polybutadiene; nitrile rubber; butyl rubber; ethylene propylene rubber; ethylene propylene diene monomer; chlorosulfonated polyethylene; polysulfide rubber; ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA); copolyesters; and polyether-block polyamide copolymers. Such materials are commercially available, for example, as Tegaderm® drapes available from 3M Company (Minneapolis, Minnesota); polyurethane (PU) drapes available from Avery Dennison Corporation (Pasadena, California); polyether block polyamide copolymer (PEBAX) available from Arkema SA (Colombes, France); and Inspire 2301 and Inspire 2327 polyurethane films available from Expopack Advanced Coatings (Wrexham, United Kingdom). In some embodiments, the cover 125 has a thickness of 2600 g / m 2 The IVF may include INSPIRE2301, which has a 24-hour MVTR (Upright Cup Technology) and a thickness of approximately 30 micrometers.

[0040] An attachment device can be used to attach the cover 125 to an attachment surface, such as an intact epidermis, a gasket, or another cover. The attachment device can take many forms. For example, the attachment device can be a medically acceptable pressure-sensitive adhesive configured to bond the cover 125 to the epidermis surrounding the tissue site. In some embodiments, for example, part or all of the cover 125 can be coated with an adhesive, such as an acrylic adhesive, which can have a coating weight of approximately 25 to 65 grams per square meter (gsm). In some embodiments, a thicker adhesive or combination of adhesives can be applied to improve the seal and reduce leakage. Other exemplary embodiments of attachment devices can include double-sided tape, glue, hydrocolloid, hydrogel, silicone gel, or organogel.

[0041] Solution source 145 may also represent a container, canister, pouch, bag, or other storage component capable of providing solution for instillation therapy. While the composition of the solution may vary according to a given treatment, examples of solutions that may be suitable for some formulations include hypochlorite-based solutions, silver nitrate (0.5%), sulfur-based solutions, biguanides, cationic solutions, and isotonic solutions.

[0042] Treatment Mode

[0043] In operation, the tissue interface 120 can be positioned within, on, over, or otherwise proximate to the tissue site. For example, if the tissue site is a wound, the tissue interface 120 can partially or completely occlude or be positioned over the wound. A cover 125 can be positioned over the tissue interface 120 and sealed to an attachment surface near the tissue site. For example, the cover 125 can be sealed to the intact epidermis surrounding the tissue site. Thus, the dressing 110 can provide a sealed treatment environment proximate the tissue site that is substantially isolated from the external environment. The negative pressure source 105 and the solution source 145 can be fluidly coupled to the tissue interface via one or more fluid conduits. The negative pressure source 105 can reduce pressure within the sealed treatment environment, and fluid from the solution source 145 can be infused into the sealed treatment environment.

[0044] The fluid dynamics of using a negative pressure source to reduce pressure in another component or location, such as within an enclosed therapy environment, can be mathematically complex, but the basic principles of fluid dynamics applicable to negative pressure therapy and instillation are generally well known to those skilled in the art, and the process of reducing pressure may illustratively be described herein as, for example, "delivering," "distributing," or "generating" negative pressure.

[0045] Generally, exudate and other fluids flow along a fluid pathway toward lower pressure. Thus, the term "downstream" typically refers to a location within a fluid pathway that is relatively closer to a negative pressure source or farther away from a positive pressure source. Conversely, the term "upstream" refers to a location that is relatively farther away from a negative pressure source or closer to a positive pressure source. Similarly, it may be convenient to describe certain features in terms of a fluid "inlet" or "outlet" in such a frame of reference. This orientation is generally assumed for purposes of describing various features and components herein. However, fluid pathways may also be reversed in some applications, such as by replacing a negative pressure source with a positive pressure source, and this descriptive definition should not be construed as limiting.

[0046] In a sealed treatment environment, negative pressure applied across the tissue site via tissue interface 120 can induce macro- and micro-strains in the tissue site. The negative pressure can also remove exudates and other fluids from the tissue site, which can be collected in container 115.

[0047] In some embodiments, the controller 130 can receive and process data from one or more sensors, such as the first sensor 135. The controller 130 can also control the operation of one or more components of the treatment system 100 to manage the pressure delivered to the tissue interface 120. In some embodiments, the controller 130 can include an input for receiving a desired target pressure and can be programmed to process data regarding the setting and input of the target pressure to be applied to the tissue interface 120. In some exemplary embodiments, the target pressure can be a fixed pressure value set by an operator as the desired target negative pressure for treatment at the tissue site and then provided as an input to the controller 130. The target pressure can vary from tissue site to tissue site based on the type of tissue forming the tissue site, the type of injury or wound (if any), the patient's medical condition, and the attending physician's preferences. After selecting the desired target pressure, the controller 130 can operate the negative pressure source 105 in one or more control modes based on the target pressure and can receive feedback from one or more sensors to maintain the target pressure at the tissue interface 120.

[0048] FIG. 2 is a graph showing further details of an exemplary control mode that may be associated with some embodiments of the controller 130. In some embodiments, the controller 130 may have a continuous pressure mode in which the negative pressure source 105 is operated to provide a constant target negative pressure, as shown by lines 205 and 210, for the duration of the treatment or until manually deactivated. Additionally, or alternatively, the controller may have an intermittent pressure mode, as shown in the example of FIG. 2. In FIG. 2, the x-axis represents time and the y-axis represents the negative pressure generated by the negative pressure source 105 over time. In the example of FIG. 2, the controller 130 may operate the negative pressure source 105 to cycle between the target pressure and atmospheric pressure. For example, the target pressure may be set to a value of −125 mmHg for a specified time (e.g., 5 minutes), as shown by line 205, followed by deactivation for a specified time (e.g., 2 minutes), as shown by the gap between solid lines 215 and 220. This cycling process can be repeated by activating the negative pressure source 105, as shown by line 220, thereby creating a square wave pattern between the target pressure and atmospheric pressure.

[0049] In some exemplary embodiments, the increase in negative pressure from ambient pressure to the target pressure may not be instantaneous. For example, the negative pressure source 105 and the dressing 110 may have an initial rise time, as indicated by dashed line 225. The initial rise time may vary depending on the type of dressing and treatment device being used. For example, the initial rise time for one treatment system may be in the range of approximately 20-30 mmHg / sec, while for another treatment system it may be in the range of approximately 5-10 mmHg / sec. If the treatment system 100 is operating in an intermittent mode, the repetitive rise time, as indicated by solid line 220, may be substantially equal to the initial rise time, as indicated by dashed line 225.

[0050] FIG. 3 is a graph showing further details that may be associated with another exemplary pressure control mode in some embodiments of the treatment system 100. In FIG. 3, the x-axis represents time and the y-axis represents the negative pressure generated by the negative pressure source 105. The target pressure in the example of FIG. 3 may vary over time in a dynamic pressure mode. For example, the target pressure may vary in the form of a triangular waveform varying between 50 mmHg negative and 135 mmHg negative, with a rise time 305 set at a rate of +25 mmHg / min and a fall time 310 set at -25 mmHg / min. In other embodiments of the treatment system 100, the triangular waveform may vary between 25 mmHg negative and 135 mmHg negative, with a rise time 305 set at a rate of +30 mmHg / min and a fall time 310 set at -30 mmHg / min.

[0051] In some embodiments, the controller 130 can control or determine a variable target pressure in a dynamic pressure mode, which can vary between a maximum and minimum pressure value that can be set as an operator-defined input as a range of desired negative pressure. The variable target pressure can also be processed and controlled by the controller 130, which can vary the target pressure according to a predetermined waveform, such as a triangular waveform, a sinusoidal waveform, or a sawtooth waveform. In some embodiments, the waveform can be set by the operator as a predetermined or time-varying negative pressure desired for treatment.

[0052] FIG. 4 is a chart illustrating details that may be associated with an exemplary method 400 of operating the treatment system 100 to provide negative pressure and instillation treatment to the tissue interface 120. In some embodiments, the controller 130 can receive and process data, such as data related to an instillation solution provided to the tissue interface 120. Such data may include the type of instillation solution specified by the clinician, the volume of fluid or solution to be instilled at the tissue site (the "fill volume"), and the amount of time specified for the solution to remain at the tissue site before applying negative pressure to the tissue site (the "dwell time"). The fill volume may be, for example, 10 to 500 mL, and the dwell time may be 1 second to 30 minutes. The controller 130 may also control the operation of one or more components of the treatment system 100 to instill the solution, as shown at 405. For example, the controller 130 may manage the fluid dispensed from the solution source 145 to the tissue interface 120. In some embodiments, fluid may be applied to the tissue site by applying negative pressure from negative pressure source 105 to create a reduced pressure at the tissue site and draw the solution into the tissue interface 120, as shown at 410. In some embodiments, solution may be applied to the tissue site by applying positive pressure from positive pressure source 150 to move the solution from solution source 145 to the tissue interface 120, as shown at 415. Additionally or alternatively, solution source 145 may be elevated to a height sufficient to allow gravity to move the solution into the tissue interface 120, as shown at 420.

[0053] The controller 130 may also control the fluid dynamics of the dripping at 425 by providing a continuous flow of solution at 430 or an intermittent flow of solution at 435. Negative pressure may be applied to provide either a continuous or intermittent flow of solution at 440. The application of negative pressure may be implemented to provide a continuous pressure mode of operation at 445 to achieve a continuous flow rate of dripped solution through the tissue interface 120, or to provide a dynamic pressure mode of operation at 450 to vary the flow rate of dripped solution through the tissue interface 120. Alternatively, the application of negative pressure may be implemented to provide an intermittent mode of operation at 455 to allow the dripped solution to dwell at the tissue interface 120. The intermittent mode can provide a specific fill volume and dwell time depending, for example, on the type of tissue site being treated and the type of dressing being utilized. Negative pressure treatment may be applied at 460 after or during dripping of the solution. The controller 130 can be utilized to select the operating mode and duration of the negative pressure treatment before initiating another drip cycle at 465 by dripping more solution at 405 .

[0054] FIG. 5 is a graph illustrating further details of another exemplary control mode that may be associated with some embodiments of the controller 130 to provide negative pressure and drip treatments to the tissue interface 120. In the example of FIG. 5, the controller 130 is configured to provide separate periods of negative pressure and drip. The controller 130 may operate the negative pressure source 105 in an intermittent pressure mode to maintain the target negative pressure 205 during the negative pressure period. During the drip period 505, the controller 130 may deactivate the negative pressure source 105 and operate the positive pressure source 150 to drip a predetermined volume of fluid from the solution source 145 to the tissue site. The target negative pressure, the predetermined volume, or both may be preset by the controller 130 or, in some examples, may be set by an operator at run time. The controller 130 may also provide a dwell period 510 during which neither the negative pressure source 105 nor the positive pressure source 150 is active. In some examples, the cycle may be repeated. In the embodiment of FIG. 5, the controller 130 restarts the negative pressure source 105 after a dwell period 510 .

[0055] FIG. 5 further illustrates an example of a controller 130 configured to provide intermittent purge cycles. In FIG. 5, the controller 130 periodically activates a first purge cycle 515 and a second purge cycle 520. For example, a negative pressure source 105 may be coupled to the dressing 110 via a first fluid conduit, and the controller 130 may activate the first purge cycle 515 by opening a valve to expose the first fluid conduit to ambient or positive pressure. The increased pressure can force exudate out of the first fluid conduit and reduce the buildup of exudate that may block the first fluid conduit. Similarly, a solution source 145 may be coupled to the dressing 110 via a second fluid conduit, and the second purge cycle 520 may include dripping a relatively small amount of fluid from the solution source 145 through the second fluid conduit. For example, a suitable purge volume may be in the range of about 0.1 milliliters to about 1 milliliter. Purge frequency may also vary. In some embodiments, the frequency may range from about 5 minutes to about 20 minutes. In some embodiments, a purge volume of about 0.2 milliliters and a frequency of about 10 minutes may be suitable to reduce material buildup in the second fluid conduit near the dressing 110. The second purge cycle 520 may be performed in the same manner as in the example of FIG. 5. During or between negative pressure periods The purge volume of solution may be removed by negative pressure through the first fluid conduit in some configurations. In some embodiments, the first purge cycle 515 and the second purge cycle 520 may be operated simultaneously.

[0056] The systems, devices, and methods described herein can provide significant advantages. For example, interactions between proteins and lipids from the instillation solution and exudate can produce sticky deposits that can collect at the dressing interface. Instillation-purge cycles can substantially reduce or eliminate these deposits, which can clog fluid conduits and other distribution components.

[0057] While illustrated in several exemplary embodiments, those skilled in the art will recognize that the systems, devices, and methods described herein are susceptible to various changes and modifications that fall within the scope of the appended claims. Furthermore, the description of various alternatives using terms such as "or" does not require mutual exclusivity unless clearly required by context, and the definite article "a" or "an" does not limit subject matter to a single example unless clearly required by context. Components may also be combined or removed in various configurations for purposes of sale, manufacture, assembly, or use. For example, in some configurations, the dressing 110, the container 115, or both may be removed or separated from other components for manufacture or sale. In other exemplary configurations, the controller 130 may also be manufactured, configured, assembled, or sold independently of other components.

[0058] The appended claims set forth novel and inventive aspects of the subject matter described above, but the claims may also encompass additional subject matter not specifically recited in detail. For example, certain features, elements, or aspects may be omitted from the claims if they are not necessary to distinguish the novel and inventive features from those known to those skilled in the art. Features, elements, and aspects described in the context of some embodiments may also be omitted, combined, or replaced by alternative features serving the same, equivalent, or similar purpose without departing from the scope of the invention as defined by the appended claims.

Claims

1. 1. An apparatus for treating a tissue site, the apparatus comprising: A negative pressure supply unit; a solution source; a controller operably connected to the source of negative pressure and the source of solution; The controller: delivering negative pressure to the tissue site during a negative pressure period; delivering a fill volume of the drip fluid to the tissue site during an instillation period; performing a first purge cycle by opening the valve and exposing the tissue site to ambient or positive pressure; performing a second purge cycle by delivering a purge volume of the drip fluid to the tissue site at a purge frequency upon completion of the drip period; 10. The apparatus of claim 9, wherein the apparatus is configured to deliver the purge volume of the drip fluid before or during the negative pressure period.

2. 2. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the controller is configured to deliver the purge volume of the drip fluid during the negative pressure period.

3. 2. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein said fill volume is at least 10 times said purge volume of the dripping fluid.

4. 2. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the ratio of the fill volume to the purge volume of the dripper fluid is from 10:1 to 5000:

1.

5. 2. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein said fill volume is in the range of 10 milliliters to 500 milliliters and said purge volume of the dripper fluid is in the range of 0.1 milliliters to 1 milliliter.

6. 2. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the purge frequency is in the range of 5 minutes to 20 minutes.

7. 10. The apparatus of claim 1, the fill volume is in the range of 10 milliliters to 500 milliliters; the purge volume is in the range of 0.1 milliliters to 1 milliliter; The apparatus is characterized in that the purge frequency is in the range of 5 to 20 minutes.

8. 10. The apparatus of claim 1, further comprising a fluid conduit fluidly coupled to the solution source, the controller configured to deliver the purge volume of the drip flow through the fluid conduit.

9. The apparatus of claim 1 further comprising: a first fluid conduit fluidly connected to the supply of negative pressure; a second fluid conduit fluidly connected to the solution source; the controller is configured to deliver the purge volume of the dripping fluid through the second fluid conduit and remove the purge volume of the dripping fluid through the first fluid conduit.

10. 10. The apparatus of claim 1, further comprising: a user interface coupled to the controller and operable to receive input for configuring at least one of the purge volume and the purge frequency of the drip flow.

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