Patent ID: 8273074
Filing Date: 2012-09-25
Classification: A61M

Abstract:
1. A wound treatment apparatus comprising: a porous dressing; a canister in fluid communication with the porous dressing; a first valve positioned between the porous dressing and the canister and positionable in an open position to allow fluid flow and a closed position to prevent fluid flow between the porous dressing and the canister; a disposal line fluidly connected to the canister; a second valve operably positioned within the disposal line and positionable in an open position to allow fluid flow and a closed position to prevent fluid flow through the disposal line; and a pump in fluid communication with the canister and operable to draw wound exudate from the porous dressing into the canister when the first valve is open and the second valve is closed, the pump further being operable to force wound exudate from the canister into the disposal line when the first valve is closed and the second valve is open; wherein the operation of the first and second valves is coordinated such that when the first valve is opened, the second valve is closed, and when the first valve is closed, the second valve is opened.