tourniquets

Abstract

A system for immediately reducing or stopping bleeding from a limb incorporated within a wearable item that permits controlled release of the system and a method of using the same are provided. The system comprises a casing associated with the wearable item and a cable tie, which acts as the tourniquet is provided within the casing. The cable tie has a flexible strap with a free end and a head having a pawl on the other end, wherein a portion of the flexible strap is provided with ratchet teeth that are configured to interlock with the pawl. The flexible strap is threaded through the head so that a portion of the flexible strap is in the form of a loop accommodated within the casing. The loop has a size that is reduced when the free end that is exposed from the casing is pulled.

Description

[0001] TOURNIQUETS

[0002] FIELD

[0003]

[0001] The present subject matter relates to tourniquets. More particularly, the present subject matter relates to tourniquets having a safety catch.

[0004] BACKGROUND

[0005]

[0002] Tourniquets are used to control bleeding from wounds in a limb that results from trauma or injury. A tourniquet is a tightly tied band applied around an arm or a leg to stop bleeding or uncontrolled haemorrhage in an emergency situation. Typically, the tourniquet includes a piece of strap or tube wrapped around the arm or leg and tied tightly. Further, some tourniquets include a windlass or stick wound underneath the strap. In an emergency, the strap is wrapped around the limb and the windlass is twisted until the strap is tightened enough such that the bleeding is stopped. Once it is determined that adequate pressure is achieved, the windlass is secured to lock its position.

[0006]

[0003] In certain situations, such as on the battlefield during live fire, there is a need for immediate treatment of a wounded person, but there is no other person immediately available to apply a tourniquet. Therefore, there is often a need for the wounded persons to apply the tourniquet themselves or an unprofessional person to apply the device. A major problem in such situations is that the wounded person might prematurely loosen the tourniquet, either because the tightened tourniquet is extremely painful, or because he / she is in hypovolemic shock and is delirious. Such loosening of the tourniquet would cause the death of the wounded person.

[0007]

[0004] There is a need for an improved and safe system for stemming bleeding from limbs.

[0008] SUMMARY

[0009]

[0005] A system for immediately reducing or stopping bleeding from a limb incorporated within a wearable item that permits controlled release of the system is provided wherein the system for reducing or stopping bleeding comprises: a casing associated with the wearable item; a cable tie having a flexible strap with a free end and a head having a pawl on the other end, wherein a portion of said flexible strap is provided with ratchet teeth that are configured to interlock with the pawl, and wherein the flexible strap is threaded through the head so that a portion of the flexible strap is in the form of a loop accommodated within said casing having a size that is reduced when said free end that is exposed from the casing is pulled; a release actuator provided to the head is configured to disengage said ratchet teeth from the pawl upon applying bilateral localized pressure to opposing sides of the head; at least one safety catch coupled with the free end and configured to resist separation until an intentional force is applied.

[0010]

[0006] In accordance with another embodiment of the present subject matter, the loop is sized so that a limb can be inserted snugly within the loop.

[0011]

[0007] In accordance with another embodiment of the present subject matter, the wearable item is selected from a group of wearable items consisting of shirts, trousers, vests, harnesses, and overalls.

[0012]

[0008] In accordance with another embodiment of the present subject matter, the casing is connected to an interior of a shirt or trousers so that it can be placed about the limb.

[0013]

[0009] In accordance with another embodiment of the present subject matter, an opening is provided in the shirt or the trousers so that the free end can be exposed through the opening.

[0014]

[0010] In accordance with another embodiment of the present subject matter, the casing is detachably connected to a harness that can be worn on an upper or a lower body part.

[0015]

[0011] In accordance with another embodiment of the present subject matter, the safety catch connects the free end and the wearable item.

[0016]

[0012] In accordance with another embodiment of the present subject matter, the safety catch connects the free end and the casing.

[0017]

[0013] In accordance with another embodiment of the present subject matter, the free end is provided with a tab configured to assist pulling the free end.

[0014] In accordance with another embodiment of the present subject matter, the safety catch is at least one thread connecting the tab and the wearable item or the casing and wherein the intentional force tears the at least one thread.

[0018]

[0015] In accordance with another embodiment of the present subject matter, the at least one thread is made of material selected from a group consisting of cotton, silk, polymeric material, or metal.

[0019]

[0016] In accordance with another embodiment of the present subject matter, a portion of the flexible strap between the free end and the head is at least 5 cm.

[0020]

[0017] In accordance with another embodiment of the present subject matter, a portion of the flexible strap between the free end and the head is folded over the head.

[0021]

[0018] In accordance with another embodiment of the present subject matter, a portion of the flexible strap between the free end and the head is provided with markings indicating the tightness of the loop on the limb and assists in gradual loosening of the cable tie.

[0022]

[0019] In accordance with another embodiment of the present subject matter, the marking can be colored lines or holes.

[0023]

[0020] In accordance with another embodiment of the present subject matter, the ratchet teeth are spaced about 0.1-5 mm apart.

[0024]

[0021] In accordance with another embodiment of the present subj ect matter, a height of the rachet teeth are about 0.2 mm to 1 cm.

[0025]

[0022] In accordance with another embodiment of the present subj ect matter, the ratchet teeth have an angle of at least 1° towards the free end.

[0026]

[0023] In accordance with another embodiment of the present subject matter, a width of the flexible strap is about 1-10 cm.

[0027]

[0024] In accordance with another embodiment of the present subject matter, the loop is fixed within the casing.

[0028]

[0025] In accordance with another embodiment of the present subject matter, the safety catch is at least one flap configured to hide the free end.

[0029]

[0026] In accordance with another embodiment of the present subj ect matter, the flap is configured to be fastened to the wearable item through a fastener.

[0030]

[0027] In accordance with another embodiment of the present subject matter, the fastener is selected from a group consisting of hook-and-loop fastener, magnetic fastener, or button-and-loop system.

[0031]

[0028] In accordance with another embodiment of the present subject matter, the system further provided with a stopwatch configured to be activated upon a pull of the free end.

[0029] In accordance with another embodiment of the present subject matter, in order to release the cable-tie, the release actuators are activated while the free end has to be slightly pulled and them pushed to enlarge the loop.

[0032]

[0030] In accordance with another embodiment of the present subject matter, the wearable item comprises a plurality of systems for immediately reducing or stopping bleeding from a limb.

[0033]

[0031] In accordance with another embodiment, a method of using a system for reducing or stopping bleeding from a limb and controllably releasing is provided that comprises: wearing, by a user, a wearable item comprising a plurality of systems for immediately reducing or stopping bleeding from a limb as claimed in claim 1, wherein the casings are placed on different positions on limbs of the user; upon a severe injury of at least one limb, reaching the free end of a relevant casing of the casings; pulling the free end to reduce the size of the loop and stop blood from flowing through the injury; at an appropriate time, gradually releasing the cable tie by enlarging the loop using two fingers of a medical personnel that are oppositely pressing the release actuators.

[0034]

[0032] In accordance with another embodiment of the present subject matter, simultaneously to gradually releasing the cable tie, slightly pulling the free end away from the head and then pushing the free end towards the head to enlarge the loop.

[0035]

[0033] Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this disclosed subject matter belongs. Although methods and materials similar or equivalent to those described herein can be used in the practice or testing of the present disclosed subject matter, suitable methods and materials are described below. In case of conflict, the specification, including definitions, will control. In addition, the materials, methods, and examples are illustrative only and not intended to be limiting.

[0036] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0037]

[0034] Some embodiments of the disclosed subject matter described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings. With specific reference now to the drawings in detail, it is stressed that the particulars shown are by way of example and for purposes of illustrative discussion of the preferred embodiments of the present disclosed subject matter only, and are presented in the cause of providing what is believed to be the most useful and readily understood description of the principles and conceptual aspects of the disclosed subject matter. In this regard, no attempt is made to show structural details of the disclosed subject matter in more detail than is necessary for a fundamental understanding of the disclosed subject matter, the description taken with the drawings making apparent to those skilled in the art how the several forms of the disclosed subject matter may be embodied in practice.

[0038]

[0035] In the drawings:

[0039]

[0036] Figure 1 depicts a prior art cable tie;

[0040]

[0037] Figure 2 schematically illustrates a cross-sectional view of a system for reducing bleeding placed on an arm, in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the disclosed subject matter;

[0041]

[0038] Figure 3a schematically illustrates a system for reducing bleeding, in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the disclosed subject matter, incorporated within a sleeve;

[0042]

[0039] Figure 3b is an enlarged view of part of the system shown in Figure3a;

[0043]

[0040] Figure 4a schematically illustrates a system for reducing bleeding, in accordance with some other exemplary embodiments of the disclosed subject matter, incorporated within a sleeve;

[0044]

[0041] Figure 4b is an enlarged view of the system shown in Figure 4a;

[0045]

[0042] Figure 5a schematically illustrates a safety catch of a system for reducing bleeding, in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the disclosed subject matter; , ;

[0046]

[0043] Figure 5b schematically illustrates the safety catch shown in Figure 5a, with an open flap;

[0044] Figure 6a schematically illustrates an action by which the system for reducing bleeding in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the disclosed subject matter, is being activated.

[0045] Figure 6b schematically illustrates the action needed in order to release and remove the tourniquet by a physician, in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the disclosed subject matter;

[0047]

[0046] Figure 7 schematically illustrates a soldier wearing a plurality of systems for reducing bleeding incorporated within his cloths, in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the disclosed subject matter;

[0048]

[0047] Figure I la schematically illustrates an upper-body wearable item provided with systems to reduce bleeding, in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the disclosed subject matter;

[0049]

[0048] Figure 8b schematically illustrates the upper-body wearable item shown in Figure 8a, with one of the systems to reduce bleeding being removed;

[0049] Figure 9 schematically illustrates a lower-body wearable item provided with systems to reduce bleeding, in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the disclosed subject matter; and

[0050]

[0050] Figure 10 schematically illustrates a front view and a rear view of a human user wearing an upper-body and a lower-body wearable items, in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the disclosed subject matter.

[0051] DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0052]

[0051] Before explaining at least one embodiment of the disclosed subject matter in detail, it is to be understood that the disclosed subject matter is not limited in its application to the details of construction and the arrangement of the components set forth in the following description or illustrated in the drawings. The disclosed subject matter is capable of other embodiments or of being practiced or carried out in various ways. Also, it is to be understood that the phraseology and terminology employed herein is for the purpose of description and should not be regarded as limiting. The drawings are generally not to scale. For clarity, non-essential elements were omitted from some of the drawings.

[0053]

[0052] The terms "comprises", "comprising", "includes", "including", and "having" together with their conjugates mean "including but not limited to". The term "consisting of' has the same meaning as "including and limited to".

[0054]

[0053] The term "consisting essentially of means that the composition, method or structure may include additional ingredients, steps and / or parts, but only if the additional ingredients, steps and / or parts do not materially alter the basic and novel characteristics of the claimed composition, method or structure.

[0055]

[0054] As used herein, the singular form "a", "an" and "the" include plural references unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. For example, the term "a compound" or "at least one compound" may include a plurality of compounds, including mixtures thereof.

[0056]

[0055] Throughout this application, various embodiments of this disclosed subject matter may be presented in a range format. It should be understood that the description in range format is merely for convenience and brevity and should not be construed as an inflexible limitation on the scope of the disclosed subject matter. Accordingly, the description of a range should be considered to have specifically disclosed all the possible sub-ranges as well as individual numerical values within that range.

[0057]

[0056] It is appreciated that certain features of the disclosed subject matter, which are, for clarity, described in the context of separate embodiments, may also be provided in combination in a single embodiment. Conversely, various features of the disclosed subject matter, which are, for brevity, described in the context of a single embodiment, may also be provided separately or in any suitable sub-combination or as suitable in any other described embodiment of the disclosed subject matter. Certain features described in the context of various embodiments are not to be considered essential features of those embodiments, unless the embodiment is inoperative without those elements.

[0058]

[0057] According to one aspect of the present subject matter, a tourniquet or system for reducing or stopping blood flow from a severe injury is presented that is immediate to activate and can be removed in a controlled manner, preferably by a physician. Accordingly, a system for immediately reducing or stopping bleeding from a limb incorporated within a wearable item that permits controlled release of the system is provided that comprises: a casing associated with the wearable item; a cable tie having a flexible strap with a free end and a head having a pawl on the other end, wherein a portion of said flexible strap is provided with ratchet teeth that are configured to interlock with the pawl, and wherein the flexible strap is threaded through the head so that a portion of the flexible strap is in the form of a loop accommodated within said casing having a size that is reduced when said free end that is exposed from the casing is pulled; a release actuator provided to the head is configured to disengage said ratchet teeth from the pawl upon applying bilateral localized pressure to opposing sides of the head; a safety catch coupled with the free end and configured to resist separation until an intentional force is applied.

[0059]

[0058] Referring now to Figure 1 schematically depicting a prior art cable tie.

[0060]

[0059] A cable tie 10 includes a strap 11 with a free end 12 and a head 14. The head 14 includes a pawl 15’ and a strap channel 15”. The strap 11 further includes strap teeth 16. The free end 12 may be inserted through the strap channel 15” and throughout the head 14. The strap teeth 16 engage with the pawl 15’ in ratchet-like interaction. Note that the cable tie is a simple, single structure.

[0061]

[0060] It is now described novel systems and methods to reduce bleeding that provide solutions to several current unsolved and unrecognized problems in use of devices and apparatuses to reduce bleeding. Such solutions include simply, quickly, and autonomously securing system for reducing bleeding, which is of critical importance in severe injuries in stressful locations and hindrance of premature or improper release of the secured device.

[0061] It should be noted that along this document, the system is referred to as system for reducing bleeding. The word reducing includes total reduce, which means stopping the blood.

[0062]

[0062] Reference is now made to Figure 2 schematically illustrating a cross sectional view of a system for reducing bleeding placed on an arm, in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the disclosed subject matter.

[0063]

[0063] A novel system for reducing bleeding 100 according to an embodiment of the present subject matter is shown when secured to an interior of a clothing 20 worn by a user.

[0064]

[0064] According to one aspect, the system for reducing bleeding 100 comprises a cable tie 110 having a flexible strap 111 with a free end 112 and a head 114 having a pawl (not seen in Figure 2) on an other end, wherein a portion of the flexible strap section 111 comprises rachet teeth 115 and a safety catch 120 held by or proximate to the free end 112 of the cable tie 110. The cable tie 110 is arranged so that the flexible strap 111 is partially inserted through the head 114 so that a loop is formed; however, the loop is not fully cinched or tensioned so that a limb can be snugly inserted to within the loop. The flexible strap I l l is inserted through the head to a first extent that represent the length of the section that is beyond the loop, between the head 114 and the free end 112. This first extent cannot be changed due to the interaction between the pawl in the head and the ratchet teeth 115 of the flexible strap 111. In this partially closed configuration, the cable tie 110 maintains a non-tightened loop, allowing for final tightening during use of the system for reducing bleeding 100 when the flexible strap 111 is pulled beyond the first extent.

[0065]

[0065] The safety catch 120 is defined herein as a contrivance for preventing an accidental operation of the system 100. The system for reducing bleeding 100 is shown in the figure to be placed about a limb 32. The limb 32 is covered by a clothing item 20 such as a sleeve. The nontightened loop of the cable tie 110 is preferably arranged between the limb 32 and the clothing item 20. An opening 30 is provided in the clothing item 20 from which the free end is outwardly extends and through which the area of the head 114 is exposed outwardly from the cloth 20. The safety catch 120 is connecting the free end 112 and the clothing item 20. Upon a need to use the system for reducing bleeding 100 is to be used, the free end 112 is pulled with an intentional force sufficient to overcome the resistance of the safety catch 120.

[0066]

[0066] Optionally or additionally, the free end 112 comprises a tab 140 with a tab hole 142 therein. The tab hole 142 can serve one or more functions. According to one, the safety catch can include one or more threads (not shown in this Figure) that is inserted through the tab hole 142 and stitched on or through the clothing item. A second function is that a finger or more than one finger can be inserted by the user into the tab hole 142 and the tab 140 is then tugged [leftwards in the drawing], with sufficient force to break the thread / s. The thread / s can be made of materials such as cotton, silk, polymeric material and / or metal.

[0067]

[0067] Alternatively or additionally, the tab is in the shape of a T to allow the injured person to pull the tab / free end with two fingers. In some embodiments, different tabs can be provided, i.e., some with a hole [for example for pulling with one finger] and some with a T shape, or tabs with other shapes.

[0068]

[0068] Note that the tab and the free end has similar meaning and are alternatively used throughout this document.

[0069]

[0069] As mentioned herein before, the wounded person or a person that assists the wounded person can apply a small amount of intentional force so that the loop becomes tighter, the first extent is getting longer, without being stopped by the safety catch. A strong pull of the tab 142 that is sufficient to break or release the safety catch is also sufficient to stop the bleeding, i.e., one application of strong force, in one quick motion, is simultaneously enough to fully activate the system and make it preform its purpose, which is to stop the blood from flowing through the wound. Optionally, this force may vary between various embodiments. For example, a system adapted for smaller limbs will have a safety catch that needs a weaker force to break or remove it relative to larger limbs. In general, the safety catch is designed to break at a force of about 2- 18kgF. In some embodiments, the range is 4-12 kgF, all depending on the usage of the system, the characteristics of the user, etc.

[0070]

[0070] In some embodiments, the first extent is at least about 5cm. Such systems can be suitable mostly for small-limbs.

[0071]

[0071] In some embodiments, the first extent is between about 10 and 20 cm. relatively large cable ties for large limbs can require relatively large first extent.

[0072]

[0072] In some embodiments, the first extent is about 25-75% of the circumference of the closed loop while the safety catch is intact.

[0073]

[0073] In some embodiments, the first extent is about 40-60% of the circumference of the closed loop while the safety catch is intact.

[0074]

[0074] In some embodiments, the first extent is about 45-55% of the circumference of the closed loop while the safety catch is intact.

[0075]

[0075] In principle, having the free end readily accessible to the user is advantageous for application of the tourniquet. Moreover, having the free end distant from the head is also advantageous, because then, it is difficult for the user to see and manipulate the head and try to loosen the strap, which is absolutely undesirable. Therefore, for practical purposes in system for reducing bleeding 100, the free end 112 and the head end 114 are distance from one another while the free end extends outwardly from the opening 30 while the head is exposed through the opening in the cloth 20.

[0076]

[0076] It should be noticed that the free end 112 is inserted throughout the head in a first direction C so that the first extent is already prepared in the system to reduce bleeding 100 for the pulling action. However, the free end 112 is then folded to be directed in a direction opposite to the direction C so that a fold 113 is formed. The inventors of the present subject matter have surprisingly discovered that the fold 113 significantly increases the maximal tightening the wounded person or another user can apply on the system to reduce bleeding 100 in order to activate it. The pull for tightening the strap 110 is in a direction counter to the first direction C. It should be mentioned that the ratchet teeth 115 are arranged along the flexible strap 111 to accord typical sizes of limbs.

[0077]

[0077] In some embodiments, the head 114 of the cable tie 110 can be depressed to release the ratchet teeth 115 from the pawl in the head 114 so that the tourniquet can be loosened or removed. For example, the head is pressed between two fingers in a vise-like motion, which for example raises the head’s pawl from the cable tie’s ratchet teeth.

[0078]

[0078] It is most crucial that the wounded person will not be able, by no means, to loosen the tourniquet or to remove it after it was tightened to a full extent over the limb. When the head is least visible by the wounded person, particularly for straps laid on legs, the inventors found out in trials that it is surprisingly difficult to effectively pinch the head 114 to release the strap.

[0079]

[0079] It should be indicated that a system for reduce bleeding can comprise at least one cable tie and when there is a plurality of cable ties that are provided in a sleeve, they are arranged in predetermined distances from one another.

[0080]

[0080] In some embodiments, the flexible strap section further comprises at least one marking [not shown in this figure], wherein the at least one marking indicates different levels of tightness of the loop. For example, the strap has stripes thereon of several colours.

[0081]

[0081] In some embodiments, the levels of tightness include a level associated with stopping bleeding and a level associated with different levels till complete loosening of the loop. These levels are intended for medical personnel, for example, to allow gradual loosening of a tourniquet, to minimize the risk of various complications because of cessation of blood flow to the limb. The levels of loosening can also be represented by holed in the strap.

[0082]

[0082] In some embodiments, the levels of tightness further comprise at least one level associated with incompletely or partially stopping bleeding. Such incomplete stopping can be useful, for example, in cases where the bleeding is not from an amputation, or under circumstances, wherein creation of a tourniquet is not necessary. In addition, or alternatively, the marking can help the user in the gradual loosening of the tourniquet to avoid a sudden complete loosening that might be dangerous to the injured person. As mentioned hereinbefore, the loosening process has to be controlled and graduate.

[0083]

[0083] In some embodiments, the ratchet teeth are spaced about 0. l-5mm apart. The relatively close spacing can make the cable tie more resistant to improper release.

[0084]

[0084] In some embodiments, the ratchet teeth have a height of about 0.1-10 mm.

[0085]

[0085] In some embodiments, the ratchet teeth have an angle of at least 1° toward the free end. The optimal angle can have some dependence upon the material the teeth and head are made of and the height of the teeth.

[0086]

[0086] In some embodiments, the flexible strap section has a width of about l-10cm. The inventors found that a strap narrower that about 1cm might cut into the flesh and cause unnecessary damage to tissues, whereas a strap wider than about 5 cm might entail excessive necrotic tissue.

[0087]

[0087] In some embodiments, the thickness of the strap section is about 1-5 mm.

[0088]

[0088] In some embodiments, the flexible strap section is made of thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU), acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS), or a combination thereof. In some embodiments, the cable tie comprises TPU, ABS, or a combination thereof. In general, the entire system is made of materials that are heat resistant, at least to a temperature of at least about 55°C. In some embodiments, the system includes components, such as those for registering and / or broadcasting time of employing the system, or parts thereof, and in some of those embodiments, these components are protected from heat and / or water and other liquids, or are removed before putting clothing into a washing machine, as an example.

[0089]

[0089] Reference is now made to Figure 3a and 3b schematically illustrating a system for reducing bleeding, in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the disclosed subject matter, incorporated within a sleeve and an enlarged view of part of the system shown in Figure 3a, respectively.

[0090]

[0090] A system for reducing bleeding 310 is incorporated within a clothing such as a shirt 320 having a sleeve 322. The sleeve comprises a casing 350 at least partially encircling a circumference of the sleeve 322, wherein a strap 311 of the system for reducing bleeding 310 is threaded throughout the casing 350 while the free end 312 connected to the strap 311 extend outside the casing 350 and the head 314 is exposed. Since casing 350 is internally provided within the sleeve 322, it cannot be seen in the figures; however, in Figure 3b, it is represented by dash lines that represent the internal boundaries of the casing 350 through which the strap 311 is threaded. At the ends of the casing 350 and on the surface of the sleeve 322, two slits 352' and 352" are provided, through which the two ends of the strap 311 are exposed. The free end 312 is threaded through slit 352' and the other end with the head 314 is exposed through slit 352". The free end 312 is threaded through the head 314 while the strap 311 is exposed from the head to the first extent. The head 314 holds the strap 311 in place due to the rachet teeth 316. The head 314 can be connected to the other end of the strap 311 in a permanent connection or can be connected using a portion of the end that has rachet teeth that are organized to be opposite to the direction of the ratchet teeth 316 so the head will not be able to move further to the strap, but will be able to be disconnected from the strap through the other end. The casing can be a channel formed using a stitched elongated fabric that form a channel between the sleeve and the fabric having openings in the fabric that form the slits, so that the strap of the cable tie is threaded within the channel. Optionally or additionally, the casing can be made of a plurality of threads arranged in a vertical orientation and internally stitched to the sleeve. The channel is configured to receive and guide the strap of the cable tie therethrough. The casing can be provided with a zipper along its length. The casing can be made using other methods. In any case, preferably, the cable tie is fixed in place within the casing so that the exposed head of the cable tie is not moved from its position.

[0091]

[0091] It should be noted that although the embodiments are aimed at a sleeve, similar or the same structure is applied to a leg of trousers or parts in an overall that accommodate limbs.

[0092]

[0092] Reference is now made to figures 4a and 4b schematically illustrating a system for reducing bleeding, in accordance with some other exemplary embodiments of the disclosed subject matter, incorporated within a sleeve and an enlarged view of the system shown in Figure 4a, respectively.

[0093]

[0093] System for reducing bleeding 410 is provided on a sleeve 422 of a short 420 and is similar to the system for reducing bleeding 310, however, the strap 411 is folded to an opposite direction about fold 413. The free end 412 of the strap 411 is provided with a tab 440 that has a hole 442. A safety catch 455 that can be a thread is threaded throughout the hole 442 and is affixed to the sleeve 422. The safety catch 355 can be affixed to the sleeve by penetrating the sleeve 322 and / or the casing (cannot be seen in this figure) at two spots; one within the hole 442 and the other in the vicinity of the tab 440 and tied inside the sleeve 322 or the casing 350.

[0094]

[0094] Reference is now made to Figures 5a and 5b schematically illustrating a safety catch of a system for reducing bleeding, in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the disclosed subject matter and the safety catch with an open flap, respectively.

[0095]

[0095] A system for reducing bleeding 500 is shown to be incorporated within a sleeve of a shirt. The main parts of the system cannot be seen in Figure 5a since they are hidden within a safety catch 520. The safety catch 520 is configured to hide the system and especially the free end that upon a pull of it, the system is operated and encloses on the limb in the sleeve. The safety catch 520 comprises a pocket formed of two flaps 521" and 521". The flaps are shown in Figure 5a in a closed position, hiding the other parts of the system 500. An upper flap 521' is enclosing on a lower flap 521" and connected to it by a fastener 522 such as hook-and-loop fastener, as an example. Other fasteners can be used such as magnetic fastener, snap fastener, button-and-loop system, a combination thereof or the like. When the person in need wants to activate the system for reducing bleeding 500, a pull of the upper flap 521' upwardly according to the arrow besides the system will expose the parts that needs to be activated.

[0096]

[0096] It should be noted that also a single flap can be used to cover the free end of the system in the safety catch.

[0097]

[0097] Figure 5b shows the system for reducing bleeding 500 wherein the flaps 521' and 521" are in open position, and the tab 540 is accessible so the person in need can pull the tub 540 and consequently the strap 542 of the system using a hole 546 to tighten the tourniquet.

[0098]

[0098] Optionally or additionally, a thread 548 is tying the tab 540 and the shirt to prevent accidental employment as a double safety. In such case, two safety catches are being used.

[0099]

[0099] Optionally or additionally, system for reducing bleeding 500 is provided with a tag 548 inside the flap 521" marked TIME: onto which the time the tourniquet was placed on the wounded person limb is marked. This information is important for medical personnel to know when treating the injured person.

[0100]

[0100] Optionally or additionally, and especially since this tourniquet is configured to be used by the person being injured, who is not in full capacity to write the exact time, a stopwatch 550 is provided. The stopwatch 550 is operated upon a pull of the free end or a tear of the safety catch automatically and starts a count of time, which is accurate and independent from the injured person or another person that assist the wounded person.

[0101]

[0101] In accordance with another embodiment of the present subject matter, a method is provided of using a system for reducing or stopping bleeding from a limb and controllably releasing the system comprising: wearing, by a user, a wearable item comprising a plurality of systems for immediately reducing or stopping bleeding from a limb as claimed in claim 1, wherein the casings are placed on different positions on limbs of the user; upon a severe injury of at least one limb, reaching the free end of a relevant casing of the casings; pulling the free end to reduce the size of the loop and stop blood from flowing through the injury; at an appropriate time, gradually releasing the cable tie by enlarging the loop using two fingers of a medical personnel that are oppositely pressing the release actuators.

[0102]

[0102] The method exhibits also a simultaneously action to gradually release the cable tie by slightly pulling the free end away from the head and then pushing the free end towards the head to enlarge the loop.

[0103]

[0103] Reference is being made to Figures 6a and 6b schematically illustrating an action by which the system for reducing bleeding in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the disclosed subject matter, is being activated and the action needed in order to release and remove the tourniquet by a physician, respectively.

[0104]

[0104] As a consequence of an injury to a limb, flaps 621 of a safety catch 620 of a system for reducing bleeding 600 is being opened to expose the free end 612 of the tourniquet. The wounded person or an assisting person can pull the free end 612 using a single finger or more than one in case a T-type end is used. The pull is made in a direction that is indicated by an arrow while the strap 642 cannot rewind through the head (not shown in this figure) and release the closure of the loop of flexible strap formed around the limb. As a consequence of activating the tourniquet, bleeding is reduced until it stops.

[0105]

[0105] Releasing the tourniquet is an action that should be performed under severe supervision and is usually performed in a hospital by a physician. The system of the present subject matter can be released only using two hands, as will be explained hereinafter. The use of two hands using a focused finger strength prevents the injured person from releasing the tourniquet on his or her own. The action of releasing the tourniquet is performed as follows: head 614 that is now fixed in a certain position due to the engagement of the pawl in the head with the ratchet teeth 616. Disengaging the pawl from the ratchet teeth 616 is performed by pushing two opposite release actuators 618 positioned on both sides of the head 614 that should be pushed using the users' fingers in the directions indicated by the two arrows pointing each other. Optionally, only this single action can be made in a very focused action when applying bilateral localized pressure. With the second hand, the person disengaging the head 614 has to pull the free end 640 away from the head 614; the disengagement actions are designated by the letters P besides the arrows that indicate the direction of pushing the release actuator and P2 indicating the pulling action performed by the second hand. Then, the strap 642 can be released in a controllable manner in a direction of the arrow indicated by the letter R.

[0106] In this figure, markings 650 on the strap 642 can be seen. As indicated hereinbefore, the markings can indicate to the personnel that release or remove the tourniquet on the level of tightening that was performed or the level of releasing that should be performed of the strap.

[0106]

[0107] Reference is now made to Figure 7 schematically illustrates a soldier wearing a plurality of systems for reducing bleeding incorporated within his cloths, in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the disclosed subject matter.

[0107]

[0108] Figure 7 schematically demonstrates a soldier 710 wearing a uniform 720 that comprises a plurality of systems to reduce bleeding 730 that can be similar or identical to the systems depicted in any of the embodiments described hereinbefore. It should be noted that the straps of the tourniquet vary in their length according to the position they are situated in. For example, the straps of the thigh positions are much longer than those of the forearm. Usually, the lengths of the straps will also be determined according to the size of the clothing, i.e., trousers of size S (small) may have the same strap lengths.

[0108]

[0109] Reference is now made to Figures 8a and 8b schematically illustrating an upper-body wearable item provided with systems to reduce bleeding, in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the disclosed subject matter, and one of the systems to reduce bleeding being removed, respectively.

[0109]

[0110] Figure 8a illustrates a wearable item 800, which is a harness wearable on the upper body, that comprises a first loop and a second loop 810, each loop sized to fit around a shoulder and upper arm of a human wearer; a rear-fitting structural frame 820, structural frame 820 being attached to first and second loop 810 and configured to position the first and second loops 810 to be wearable over the arms of the user, when the structural frame 820 is worn on the torso of the user. The wearable item 800 further comprises casings 830 on each side connected to the first and second loops 810 and sized to encircle the arm of the wearer. Each casing 830 can house tourniquet comprising a cable tie similar to the tourniquet described hereinbefore.

[0110]

[0111] Optionally or additionally, a portion of the cable tie that needs to be pulled to activate the tourniquet 832, is exposed from the casing so that in case of need, the free end of the cable tie is pulled and the tourniquet is activated.

[0111]

[0112] Optionally or additionally, wearable item 800 can also comprise a reversibly fastenable front-fitting closure device 840.

[0112]

[0113] Optionally or additionally, the casing 830 of each side of the wearable item 800 is connected by a set of strap-shaped strips 850 to the first and the second loops 810 so it can be placed on the arms of the wearer (the wearer is not shown in these figures). It should be mentioned that another set of strips (not shown herein) can be connected to additional casings containing cable ties that can be connected further to the casings 830.

[0113]

[0114] Optionally or additionally, the set of strap-shaped strips 850, which are connecting the loops 810 to casings 830, can be detachable so that each casing 830 can independently be removed using a snapback closure mechanism 870. Other mechanisms can be employed without limiting the scope of the present subject matter.

[0114]

[0115] In Figure 8b one of the casings 830 is shown to be detached from the corresponding loop 810 after opening of the snapback closure mechanism 870.

[0115]

[0116] Reference is now made to Figure 9 schematically illustrating a lower-body wearable item provided with systems to reduce bleeding, in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the disclosed subject matter.

[0116]

[0117] A wearable item 900 is provided that comprises a central loop 910 sized to fit around a waist of a human wearer. Optionally or additionally, the wearable item 900 is further provided with a reversibly fastenable front-fitting closure 915. at least two casing 920, one for each leg, are sized to encircle a leg of the wearer, wherein casings 920 accommodates a system for reducing bleeding, wherein the systems may be similar or identical to the systems described hereinbefore, wherein the free end is preferably visible so that a person in danger of severe injury can pull the free end and the strap so as to stop the bleeding. Each casings 970 is configured to be positioned around a leg of a wearer, wherein central loop 910 is worn around the waist.

[0117]

[0118] The central loop 910 has two lateral sides onto which casing 920 are hung via a set of lateral strap-shaped strips 950 connected to the lateral sides of the central loop 910. The casings 920 are extending inferiorly beneath the central loop 910 when worn by the wearer.

[0118]

[0119] Optionally or additionally, the lateral strap-shaped strips 950 of the wearable item 900 can also comprise a snapback closure mechanism 970 that forms a detachable connection between the central loop and the casings.

[0119]

[0120] It should be mentioned that in the wearable items 800 and 900, the casings can be detachable so that upon an emergency situation in which another person besides the user is injured, the unusable tourniquets can be detached and used for this other person.

[0120]

[0121] Reference is now made to Figure 10 schematically illustrating a front view and a rear view of a human user wearing an upper-body and a lower-body wearable items, in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the disclosed subject matter.

[0121]

[0122] A user 1000 is shown to wear an upper wearable item 800 and a lower wearable item 900 as shown in Figures 8 and 9, respectively. Needless to mention that only an upper harness or a lower harness can be worn by the user. Tourniquets are provided in each of the limbs of the user so that in case an injury occurs to one or more limbs, the cable tie that is in the casing on each limb can be activated and in a single pull of the fee end, the tourniquet is placed on a required place and activated in an immediate manner.

[0122]

[0123] Although the invention has been described in conjunction with specific embodiments thereof, it is evident that many alternatives, modifications and variations will be apparent to those skilled in the art. Accordingly, it is intended to embrace all such alternatives, modifications and variations that fall within the spirit and broad scope of the appended claims. All publications, patents and patent applications mentioned in this specification are herein incorporated in their entirety by reference into the specification, to the same extent as if each individual publication, patent or patent application was specifically and individually indicated to be incorporated herein by reference. In addition, citation or identification of any reference in this application shall not be construed as an admission that such reference is available as prior art to the present invention.

Claims

CLAIMS1. A system for immediately reducing or stopping bleeding from a limb incorporated within a wearable item that permits controlled release of the system, the system for reducing or stopping bleeding comprising: a casing associated with the wearable item; a cable tie having a flexible strap with a free end and a head having a pawl on the other end, wherein a portion of said flexible strap is provided with ratchet teeth that are configured to interlock with the pawl, and wherein the flexible strap is threaded through the head so that a portion of the flexible strap is in the form of a loop accommodated within said casing having a size that is reduced when said free end that is exposed from the casing is pulled; a release actuator provided to the head is configured to disengage said ratchet teeth from the pawl upon applying bilateral localized pressure to opposing sides of the head; at least one safety catch coupled with the free end and configured to resist separation until an intentional force is applied.

2. The system for immediately reducing or stopping bleeding from a limb as claimed in claim 1, wherein the loop is sized so that a limb can be inserted snugly within the loop.

3. The system for immediately reducing or stopping bleeding from a limb as claimed in claim 1, wherein the wearable item is selected from a group of wearable items consisting of shirts, trousers, vests, harnesses, and overalls.

4. The system for immediately reducing or stopping bleeding from a limb as claimed in claim 1, wherein the casing is connected to an interior of a shirt or trousers so that it can be placed about the limb.

5. The system for immediately reducing or stopping bleeding from a limb as claimed in claim 4, wherein an opening is provided in the shirt or the trousers so that the free end can be exposed through the opening.

6. The system for immediately reducing or stopping bleeding from a limb as claimed in claim 1, wherein the casing is detachably connected to a harness that can be worn on an upper or a lower body part.

7. The system for immediately reducing or stopping bleeding from a limb as claimed in claim 1, wherein the safety catch connects the free end and the wearable item.

8. The system for immediately reducing or stopping bleeding from a limb as claimed in claim 1, wherein the safety catch connects the free end and the casing.

9. The system for immediately reducing or stopping bleeding from a limb as claimed in claim 1, wherein the free end is provided with a tab configured to assist pulling the free end.

10. The system for immediately reducing or stopping bleeding from a limb as claimed in claim 9, wherein the safety catch is at least one thread connecting the tab and the wearable item or the casing and wherein the intentional force tears the at least one thread.

11. The system for immediately reducing or stopping bleeding from a limb as claimed in claim 1, wherein the at least one thread is made of material selected from a group consisting of cotton, silk, polymeric material, or metal.

12. The system for immediately reducing or stopping bleeding from a limb as claimed in claim 1, wherein a portion of the flexible strap between the free end and the head is at least 5 cm.

13. The system for immediately reducing or stopping bleeding from a limb as claimed in claim 1, wherein a portion of the flexible strap between the free end and the head is folded over the head.

14. The system for immediately reducing or stopping bleeding from a limb as claimed in claim 1, wherein a portion of the flexible strap between the free end and the head is provided with markings indicating the tightness of the loop on the limb and assists in gradual loosening of the cable tie.

15. The system for immediately reducing or stopping bleeding from a limb as claimed in claim 14, wherein the marking can be colored lines or holes.

16. The system for immediately reducing or stopping bleeding from a limb as claimed in claim 1, wherein the ratchet teeth are spaced about 0.1-5 mm apart.

17. The system for immediately reducing or stopping bleeding from a limb as claimed in claim 1, wherein a height of the rachet teeth are about 0.2-10 mm.

18. The system for immediately reducing or stopping bleeding from a limb as claimed in claim 1, wherein the ratchet teeth have an angle of at least 1° towards the free end.

19. The system for immediately reducing or stopping bleeding from a limb as claimed in claim 1, wherein a width of the flexible strap is about 1-10 cm.

20. The system for immediately reducing or stopping bleeding from a limb as claimed in claim 1, wherein the loop is fixed within the casing.

21. The system for immediately reducing or stopping bleeding from a limb as claimed in claim 1, wherein the safety catch is at least one flap configured to hide the free end.

22. The system for immediately reducing or stopping bleeding from a limb as claimed in claim 1, wherein the flap is configured to be fastened to the wearable item through a fastener.

23. The system for immediately reducing or stopping bleeding from a limb as claimed in claim 22, wherein the fastener is selected from a group consisting of hook-and-loop fastener, magnetic fastener, or button-and-loop system.

24. The system for immediately reducing or stopping bleeding from a limb as claimed in claim 1, further provided with a stopwatch configured to be activated upon a pull of the free end.

25. The system for immediately reducing or stopping bleeding from a limb as claimed in claim 1, wherein in order to release the cable-tie, the release actuators are activated while the free end has to be slightly pulled and them pushed to enlarge the loop.

26. The system for immediately reducing or stopping bleeding from a limb as claimed in claim 1, wherein the wearable item comprises a plurality of systems for immediately reducing or stopping bleeding from a limb.

27. A method of using a system for reducing or stopping bleeding from a limb and controllably releasing the system comprising: wearing, by a user, a wearable item comprising a plurality of systems for immediately reducing or stopping bleeding from a limb as claimed in claim 1, wherein the casings are placed on different positions on limbs of the user; upon a severe injury of at least one limb, reaching the free end of a relevant casing of the casings; pulling the free end to reduce the size of the loop and stop blood from flowing through the injury; at an appropriate time, gradually releasing the cable tie by enlarging the loop using two fingers of a medical personnel that are oppositely pressing the release actuators.

28. The method as claimed in claim 27, wherein simultaneously to gradually releasing the cable tie, slightly pulling the free end away from the head and then pushing the free end towards the head to enlarge the loop.

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