Adjustable Compression Garment for Self-Applied Torso Edema Care
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing compression bandages for lymphedema are time-consuming, require skilled clinicians, lack self-care capabilities, and provide inconsistent compression, impacting comfort and hygiene, while alternative garments are costly and difficult to adjust to changing limb sizes.
Innovation Solution
A compression garment with adjustable tension bands and shoulder straps, featuring indicia for trimming and fasteners, allowing customizable fit and compression levels, along with optional pockets and compression measuring systems, to accommodate varying torso sizes and shapes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If compression bandaging is used, then edema reduction is effective, but application is time-consuming and requires skilled clinicians
Solution Approach 1:
The compression garment is divided into multiple independent tension bands that can be adjusted separately, allowing the garment to be applied and adjusted by the patient without requiring skilled clinicians. Each tension band can be independently modified to achieve proper compression levels.
Solution Approach 2:
The garment incorporates self-adjusting mechanisms including tension bands with adjustment mechanisms and a closure system that enables patients to apply and modify the compression themselves, eliminating the need for skilled clinician intervention for routine adjustments.
2Reliability
If compression bandaging is used, then therapeutic compression is provided, but self-care capability is not promoted
Solution Approach 1:
The garment is specifically designed with patient-friendly adjustment mechanisms including tension bands with sliders, closure systems, and indicia that guide patients through the application and adjustment process, enabling them to provide their own therapeutic compression without professional assistance.
Solution Approach 2:
The garment allows patients to modify compression parameters by adjusting tension band tightness and repositioning closure elements, enabling self-adjustment of compression levels to accommodate changing body conditions during recovery.
3Duration of action of stationary object
If inelastic compression bandages are used, then sustained therapeutic compression is achieved, but compliance is reduced due to comfort and hygiene impacts
Solution Approach 1:
The garment uses elastic materials in specific regions to provide comfort and flexibility in areas where rigidity would cause discomfort, while maintaining compression through the tension band system. This localized approach to material selection balances therapeutic needs with comfort and hygiene requirements.
4Adaptability or versatility
If alternative wrap garments are used, then bandage replacement is possible, but sizing adjustments are complex and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The garment features dynamic adjustment mechanisms including tension bands that can be repositioned and adjusted in length, closure systems with multiple positions, and indicia that guide patients through the adjustment process, enabling quick and simple sizing modifications without complex procedures.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables easy application and adjustment of therapeutic compression, promoting self-care and comfort, while accommodating limb changes and supporting post-surgical recovery.
Implementation Method 1
A plurality of tension bands or other closure systems can be positioned along the body
Implementation Method 2
The elastic and/or flexible material can be capable of folding and conforming to contours of the torso
Data Source
AI summary
A compression garment is disclosed. The garment can include a body dimensioned to wrap at least partially around a length of a torso of a user. A plurality of tension bands can be positioned along the body. The garment can include at least one shoulder strap, wherein the shoulder strap is operable to wrap over the shoulder of the user to hold the garment in position.