Patent Publication Number: US-2022218510-A1

Title: Fluid collection devices, fluid collection systems including the same, and methods of using the same

Description:
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS 
     This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 62/853,279 filed on May 28, 2019, the disclosure which is incorporated, in its entirety, by this reference. 
    
    
     BACKGROUND 
     An individual may have limited or impaired mobility such that typical urination processes are challenging or impossible. For example, the individual may experience or have a disability that impairs mobility. The individual may have restricted travel conditions such as those experienced by pilots, drivers, and workers in hazardous areas. Additionally, sometimes urine collection is needed for monitoring purposes or clinical testing. 
     Urinary catheters, such as a Foley catheter, may be used to address some of these circumstances, such as incontinence. However, urinary catheters may be uncomfortable, painful, and may lead to complications, such as infections. In another embodiment, bed pans, which are receptacles used for the toileting of bedridden patients, such as those in a health care facility, are sometimes used to address some of these circumstances. However, bed pans may be prone to discomfort, spills, and other hygiene issues. 
     When the individual is a male, condom-style catheters may be used to address some of the circumstances disclosed above. Condom-style catheters may include a fluid impermeable shell defining a chamber and an opening. The opening and the chamber may be configured to have the male penis inserted through the hole such that the urethral opening of the individual is disposed in the chamber. 
     SUMMARY 
     In an embodiment, a fluid collection device is disclosed. The fluid collection device includes a fluid impermeable barrier defining a chamber, an opening, and an outlet. The fluid collection device also includes a fluid permeable membrane extending across the opening. The fluid collection device further includes a fluid receiving portion including a portion of the fluid impermeable barrier that at least partially defines the opening and an longitudinal portion extending from the fluid receiving portion. The fluid collection device exhibits a maximum length measured from a distal tip of the longitudinal portion to an opposing portion of the fluid receiving portion. The fluid receiving portion exhibits a first maximum width measured perpendicular to the maximum length, and the longitudinal portion exhibits a second maximum width measured parallel to the first maximum width. The first maximum width is greater than the second maximum width. 
     In an embodiment, a fluid collection system is disclosed. The fluid collection system includes a fluid collection device. The fluid collection device includes a fluid impermeable barrier defining a chamber, an opening, and an outlet. The fluid collection device also includes a fluid permeable membrane extending across the opening. The fluid collection device further includes a fluid receiving portion including a portion of the fluid impermeable barrier that at least partially defines the opening and an longitudinal portion extending from the fluid receiving portion. The fluid collection device exhibits a maximum length measured from a distal tip of the longitudinal portion to an opposing portion of the fluid receiving portion. The fluid receiving portion exhibits a first maximum width measured perpendicular to the maximum length, and the longitudinal portion exhibits a second maximum width measured parallel to the first maximum width. The first maximum width is greater than the second maximum width. a fluid collection container in fluid communication with and positioned downstream from the fluid collection device. The fluid collection system also includes a fluid collection container in fluid communication with and positioned downstream from the fluid collection device. The fluid collection system further includes a suction source in fluid communication with the fluid collection device and the fluid collection container. The fluid collection system additionally includes at least one tube that allows the fluid collection device to be in fluid communication with the fluid collection container and the suction source. 
     In an embodiment, a method is disclosed. The method includes providing a fluid collection device. The fluid collection device includes a fluid impermeable barrier defining a chamber, an opening, and an outlet. The fluid collection device also includes a fluid permeable membrane extending across the opening. The fluid collection device further includes a fluid receiving portion including a portion of the fluid impermeable barrier that at least partially defines the opening and an longitudinal portion extending from the fluid receiving portion. The fluid collection device exhibits a maximum length measured from a distal tip of the longitudinal portion to an opposing portion of the fluid receiving portion. The fluid receiving portion exhibits a first maximum width measured perpendicular to the maximum length, and the longitudinal portion exhibits a second maximum width measured parallel to the first maximum width. The first maximum width is greater than the second maximum width. The method also includes positioning the opening of the fluid collection device adjacent to a urethral opening of an individual. The method further includes positioning the longitudinal portion against a perineum and/or upper thighs of the individual. 
     Features from any of the disclosed embodiments may be used in combination with one another, without limitation. In addition, other features and advantages of the present disclosure will become apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art through consideration of the following detailed description and the accompanying drawings. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
       The drawings illustrate several embodiments of the present disclosure, wherein identical reference numerals refer to identical or similar elements or features in different views or embodiments shown in the drawings. 
         FIG. 1A  is a top plan view of a portion of a fluid collection system that includes a fluid collection device, according to an embodiment. 
         FIG. 1B  is a cross-sectional view of the fluid collection system, according to an embodiment. 
         FIG. 2  is a top plan view of a portion of a fluid collection system, according to an embodiment. 
         FIG. 3  is a top plan view of a portion of a fluid collection system, according to an embodiment. 
         FIG. 4  is a front view of a urine collection system worn by an individual, according to an embodiment. 
         FIG. 5  is a schematic illustration of a fluid collection system, according to an embodiment. 
         FIG. 6  is a flow diagram of a method to use any of the fluid collection devices and/or fluid collection systems disclosed herein, according to an embodiment. 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
     Urinary collection devices, urinary collection systems including the same, and methods of using the same are disclosed herein. An example urinary collection device includes a fluid impermeable barrier defining a chamber, an opening, and an outlet. The opening and the outlet enable fluid to enter and leave the chamber, respectively. The urinary collection device also includes a fluid permeable membrane extending across the opening. The fluid permeable membrane may restrict or prevent a penis from entering the chamber. The urinary collection device includes a fluid receiving portion that includes the portions of the fluid impermeable barrier that defines the opening. The fluid receiving portion is configured to be positioned such that the opening is disposed adjacent to a urethral opening of the individual (e.g., a buried penis). The urinary collection device also includes a longitudinal portion (e.g., elongated portion) extending from the fluid receiving portion. The longitudinal portion is configured to be positioned adjacent to or near the perineum of the individual (e.g., positioned between the thighs of the individual). The urinary collection device exhibits a maximum length measured from a distal tip of the longitudinal portion to an opposing portion of the fluid receiving portion. 
     To facilitate their respective functions, the fluid receiving portion and the longitudinal portion exhibit different widths that are measured perpendicularly relative to the maximum length of the urinary collection device. For example, the fluid receiving portion exhibits a width that is generally greater than the width of the longitudinal portion. For instance, the fluid receiving portion exhibits a first maximum width and the longitudinal portion exhibits a second maximum width, and wherein the first maximum width is greater than the second maximum width. However, it is noted that portions of the fluid receiving portion, such as at or near a distal portion of the fluid receiving portion, may exhibit a width that is smaller than the longitudinal portion. The relatively larger width of the fluid receiving portion facilitates the opening receiving substantially all of the fluid (e.g., urine, sweat, and other bodily fluids) that is discharged from or around the urethral opening of the individual. The relatively smaller width of the longitudinal portion allows the longitudinal portion to be more comfortably positioned at or near the perineum of the individual. 
     In an embodiment, the fluid receiving portion and the longitudinal portion may be distinguishable from each other by their respective widths. In an example, the width of the fluid collection device changes abruptly or substantially abruptly between the fluid receiving portion and the longitudinal portion. In an example, a rate that the widths of the fluid collection device changes between the fluid receiving portion and the longitudinal portion changes. In such an example, for instance, the width of the fluid receiving portion may be changing at or near an intersection of the fluid receiving portion (e.g., decreasing with increasing proximity to the intersection) while the width of the longitudinal portion may be substantially constant at or near the intersection of the fluid receiving portion. In an embodiment, the fluid receiving portion and the longitudinal portion are distinguishable from each other because the fluid receiving portion and the longitudinal portion exhibit different shapes. For example, the fluid receiving portion may exhibit a generally triangular shape ( FIG. 1A ), a generally circular shape ( FIG. 3 ), a generally rectangular shape, or another suitable shape while the longitudinal portion exhibits a longitudinal shape (e.g., an oblong shape) that extends from the fluid receiving portion. In an embodiment, the fluid receiving portion and the longitudinal portion are distinguishable because the fluid receiving portion exhibits a size (e.g., width) that is too large to be comfortably positioned at and/or near the perineum of the individual while the longitudinal portion exhibits a size that allows the longitudinal portion to be comfortably positioned at and/or near the perineum. In an embodiment, the fluid receiving portion and the longitudinal portion are distinguishable because the fluid receiving portion defines substantially all (e.g., all) of the opening while the longitudinal portion does not. 
     In an embodiment, the fluid collection devices disclosed herein are configured to receive urine from a buried penis of a male individual. For example, as previously discussed, it may be difficult or impossible to use condom-style catheters with a buried penis. However, the fluid receiving portion of the fluid collection device may be positioned adjacent to the buried penis and the large width of the fluid receiving portion allows the opening to receive substantially all, if not all, of the bodily fluids discharged from or around the buried penis. For instance, the large width of the fluid receiving portion may allow the opening to receive urine even when the buried penis is angled relative to the fluid receiving portion and the large surface area of the opening (that is partially caused by the large width of the fluid receiving portion) allows the fluid receiving portion to receive urine that was not initially absorbed by the fluid permeable membrane. However, it is noted that the fluid collection devices disclosed herein may be used in connection with female urethras or non-buried penises. 
       FIG. 1A  is a top plan view of a portion of a fluid collection system  100  that includes a fluid collection device  102 , according to an embodiment. The fluid collection device  102  includes a fluid impermeable barrier  104 . The fluid impermeable barrier  104  defines a chamber  106  (shown in  FIG. 1B ), an opening  108 , and an outlet  110 . The fluid collection device  102  also includes a fluid permeable membrane  116  extending over the opening  108 . The fluid permeable membrane  116  may allow fluids (e.g., urine) to enter the chamber  106  while substantially preventing a urethral opening (e.g., penis) from enter the chamber  106 . The fluid collection device  102  further includes a fluid receiving portion  112  that is configured to be positioned adjacent to the urethral opening (e.g., a buried penis) and an longitudinal portion  114  that is configured to be positioned at and/or near a perineum of the individual. The fluid collection system  100  also includes at least one tube  118  in fluid communication with the chamber  106  via the outlet  110 . For example, the tube  118  may be positioned in the outlet  110  such that a portion of the tube  118  is disposed in the chamber  106 . Thus, the tube  118  may remove fluid from the chamber  106 , as will be discussed in more detail with regards to  FIG. 5 . 
     The fluid impermeable barrier  104  may include any fluid (e.g., urine) impermeable material. For example, the fluid impermeable barrier  104  may include a fluid impermeable polymer (e.g., silicone, polypropylene, polyethylene, polyethylene terephthalate, a polycarbonate, other elastomeric material, etc.), a metal film, natural rubber, another suitable material, or combinations thereof. As such, the fluid impermeable barrier  104  substantially prevents the fluids from passing through the fluid impermeable barrier  104 . In an example, the fluid impermeable barrier  104  may be air permeable and fluid impermeable. In such an example, the fluid impermeable barrier  104  may be formed of a hydrophobic material that defines a plurality of pores. At least one or more portions of at least an outer surface of the fluid impermeable barrier  104  may be formed from a soft and/or smooth material, thereby reducing chaffing. During use, a portion of the outer surface of the fluid impermeable barrier  104  may contact the wearer. 
     In an embodiment, forming the fluid impermeable barrier  104  from silicone and/or another elastomeric material allows the fluid impermeable barrier  104  to be bendable. Allowing the fluid impermeable barrier  104  to be bendable may make the fluid collection device  102  more comfortable to use than if the fluid impermeable barrier  104  was formed from another material. Further, as previously discussed, the fluid collection device  102  is configured to be used with a buried penis. Individuals with buried penises are often overweight and a bendable fluid impermeable barrier  104  may allow the fluid impermeable barrier  104  to bend around and/or conform to bulges caused by body fat. Bending the fluid impermeable barrier  104  around and/or conforming to the bulges caused by the body fat may inhibit fluids from avoiding the opening  108  and flowing around the fluid impermeable barrier  104 . 
     The fluid impermeable barrier  104 , in part, defines and forms the fluid receiving portion  112  and the longitudinal portion  114 . For example, the fluid impermeable barrier  104  may be formed to exhibit the size and shape of the fluid receiving portion  112  and the longitudinal portion  114 . However, it is noted that the other components of the fluid collection device  102  also define and form the fluid receiving portion  112  and the longitudinal portion  114 . For example, the components of the fluid collection device  102  that are disposed in the chamber  106  (e.g., the fluid permeable membrane  116  and the fluid permeable support  130 ) may also support the fluid impermeable barrier  104  such that the fluid impermeable barrier  104  forms the shape of the fluid receiving portion  112  and the longitudinal portion  114 . 
     As previously discussed, the fluid collection device  102  exhibits a length L D  extending from a distal tip  126  of the longitudinal portion  114  to an opposing portion of the fluid receiving portion  112 . In the illustrated embodiment, the opposing portion of the fluid receiving portion  112  is the outlet  110 , though there is no requirement that the outlet  110  is positioned at the opposing portion of the fluid receiving portion  112 . The length L D  of the fluid collection device  102  may be selected based on at least the size of the individual (e.g., the size of the individual&#39;s groin), the type of urethral opening that the fluid collection device  102  is positioned adjacent to (e.g., a buried penis may require a larger fluid receiving portion  112  than a female urethral opening due to at least the various angles that the buried penis may emit urine), and the method used to attach the longitudinal portion  114  to the individual (e.g., using an adhesive may allow for a smaller longitudinal portion  114 ). In other words, the length L D  of the fluid collection device  102  may vary from one embodiment to the next. However, generally, the length L D  of the fluid collection device  102  may be greater than about 10 cm, greater than about 12 cm, greater than about 14 cm, greater than about 16 cm, greater than about 18 cm, greater than about 20 cm, greater than about 22 cm, greater than about 24 cm, greater than about 26 cm, greater than about 28 cm, greater than about 30 cm, greater than about 33.5 cm, greater than about 35 cm, greater than about 37.5 cm, greater than about 40 cm, greater than about 45 cm, or in ranges of about 10 cm to about 14 cm, about 12 cm to about 16 cm, about 14 cm to about 18 cm, about 16 cm to about 20 cm, about 18 cm to about 22 cm, about 20 cm to about 24 cm, about 22 cm to about 26 cm, about 24 cm to about 28 cm, about 26 cm to about 30 cm, about 28 cm to about 32.5 cm, about 30 cm to about 35 cm, about 32.5 cm to about 37.5 cm, about 35 cm to about 40 cm, or about 37.5 cm to about 45 cm. The length L D  of the fluid collection device  102  may be selected based on the size of the individual, the size of the penis of the individual, the length of the perineum of the individual, and the shape of the opening  108 . For example, individuals that are larger (e.g., have larger penises, longer perineums, etc.) may require or be able to accommodate a fluid collection device  102  exhibit a larger length L D  (e.g., greater than about 15 cm, greater than about 20 cm, or greater than about cm) than smaller patients. Further increasing the length L D  of the fluid collection device  102  may increase the amount of fluids received by the fluid collection device  100  and the amount of fluids that may be held within the chamber  106 . However, some individuals (e.g., smaller individuals) may be unable to use a fluid collection device  102  exhibiting longer lengths L D . 
     As previously discussed, the fluid receiving portion  112  is configured to be positioned adjacent to a urethral opening of an individual, such as a buried penis, and to receive fluids from the urethral opening. As such, the fluid receiving portion  112  at least partially defines the opening  108 . For example, the fluid receiving portion  112  defines all of or a substantial majority of the opening  108 . Since the fluid receiving portion  112  defines the opening  108 , positioning the fluid receiving portion  112  adjacent to the urethral opening of the individual also positions the opening  108  adjacent to the urethral opening. Positioning the opening  108  adjacent to the urethral opening increases the percentage of fluid that is discharged from the urethral opening that both reaches the opening  108  (e.g., contact the fluid permeable membrane  116 ) and enters the chamber  106 . 
     The fluid receiving portion  112  exhibits a shape that allows the fluid receiving portion  112  to be positioned adjacent to the urethral opening. Generally, the front face  120  of the fluid receiving portion  112  exhibits a shape that allows the fluid receiving portion  112  to abut the urethral opening. For example, the front face  120  may exhibit a generally planar topography or may have a concave curved topography which allows the front face  120  to conform to the groin of the individual since the groin is generally planar or has a convex curvature. 
     The fluid receiving portion  112  may also exhibit a shape that is configured to increase the size of the opening  108 . For example, increasing the size of the fluid receiving portion  112  may allow the fluid receiving portion  112  to define a larger opening  108 . The larger opening  108  allows the opening  108  to receive fluids that is emitted from a buried penis at different directions. Further, the larger opening  108  allows the opening  108  to receive fluid that would have otherwise leaked between the fluid impermeable barrier  104  and the skin of the individual. In an embodiment, the fluid receiving portion  112  may exhibit a generally triangular shape. The generally triangular shape may allow the fluid receiving portion  112  to correspond to the shape of the groin that surrounds the urethral opening since the groin exhibits a generally triangular shape, especially when the thighs of the individual contact each other (which is common for obese individuals). As such, the generally triangular shape of the fluid receiving portion  112  may allow the fluid receiving portion  112  to exhibit the maximum possible size without minimally uncomfortably pressing into the individual. As will be discussed in more detail below, the fluid receiving portion  112  may exhibit other suitable shapes. 
     When the fluid receiving portion  112  exhibits the generally triangular shape, the fluid receiving portion  112  may include three edges  122  and at least two vertices  124  (e.g., in some embodiments, the longitudinal portion  114  may extend from and obscure a vertex). In the illustrated embodiment, the edges  122  may be convexly curved which may at least one of cause the edges  122  to slightly press into the individual to position and secure the fluid receiving portion  112  to the groin or to conform to the groin of the individual when the edges of the groin are convex. The convex curvature of the edges  122  may also increase the volume of the chamber  106  which, in turn, increases the volume of fluid that may be held in the chamber  106  at any given time. However, it is noted that the edges  122  may be straight or convexly curved (e.g., convexly curved edges  122  may be used with extremely obese individuals). Generally, any exposed vertices  124  (e.g., any vertex that the longitudinal portion  114  does not extend from) may be rounded which may inhibit the vertices  124  from causing discomfort. 
     In an embodiment, as illustrated, the opening  108  exhibits a shape that corresponds to the shape of the fluid receiving portion  112  which allows the opening  108  to exhibit the largest possible size. However, it is noted that the opening  108  may exhibit a shape that is different than the shape of the fluid receiving portion  112 . For example, the fluid receiving portion  112  may exhibit a generally triangular shape while the opening  108  may exhibit a generally circular shape. The generally circular shape of the opening  108  may allow the fluid receiving portion  112  to be positioned such that the distance from the urethral opening to the edge of the opening  108  is substantially constant since smaller distances from the urethral opening to the edge of the opening  108  are more likely to induce fluid leaks. 
     The fluid receiving portion  112  exhibits a width that is measured perpendicularly to the length L D  of the fluid collection device  102 . The fluid receiving portion  112  exhibits a maximum width W Fmax . The maximum width W FMax  of the fluid receiving portion  112  may be selected based on the size of the individual (e.g., the size of the individual&#39;s groin) and the type of urethral opening that the fluid collection device  102  is positioned adjacent to (e.g., a buried penis may require a larger fluid receiving portion  112  than a female urethral opening due to at least the various angles that the buried penis may emit urine). In other words, the maximum width W FMax  of the fluid receiving portion  112  may be selected based on the application of the fluid collection device  102 . The maximum width W FMax  may be at least about 7.5 cm, at least about 10 cm, at least about 12 cm, at least about 14 cm, at least about 16 cm, at least about 18 cm, at least about 20 cm, at least about 22 cm, at least about 24 cm, at least about 26 cm, at least about 28 cm, at least about 30 cm, or in ranges of about 7.5 cm to about 12 cm, about 10 cm to about 14 cm, at least 12 cm to about 16 cm, about 14 cm to about 18 cm, about 16 cm to about 20 cm, about 18 cm to about 22 cm, about 20 cm to about 24 cm, about 22 cm to about 26 cm, about 24 cm to about 28 cm, or about 26 cm to about 30 cm. The maximum width W FMax  may be selected based on the size of the individual and, more particularly, the space between the thighs of the patient. For example, the maximum width W FMax  may be selected to be at or near the maximum width W FMax  that an individual may accommodate since, generally, increasing the maximum width W FMax  may increase the amount of fluids that are received by the fluid collection device  100 . In the illustrated embodiment, the maximum width W FMax  is spaced from the vertices  124  due to the convex shape of the edges  122 . However, it is noted that the maximum width W FMax  may be located at the vertices  124 . 
     The fluid impermeable barrier  104  exhibits a thickness that is micrometer sized (e.g., about 100 μm to about 1000 μm) to a few millimeters (e.g., about 1 mm to about 5 mm). As such, the portion of the chamber  106  that form part of the fluid receiving portion  112  may exhibit maximum width (not shown, obscured) that is comparable to the maximum width W FMax . For example, the portion of the chamber  106  that form part of the fluid receiving portion  112  may exhibit a maximum width that is at least about 7 cm, at least about 10 cm, at least about 12 cm, at least about 14 cm, at least about 16 cm, at least about 18 cm, at least about 20 cm, at least about 22 cm, at least about 24 cm, at least about 26 cm, at least about 28 cm, at least about 30 cm, or in ranges of about 7.5 cm to about 12 cm, about 10 cm to about 14 cm, at least 12 cm to about 16 cm, about 14 cm to about 18 cm, about 16 cm to about 20 cm, about 18 cm to about 22 cm, about 20 cm to about 24 cm, about 22 cm to about 26 cm, about 24 cm to about 28 cm, or about 26 cm to about 30 cm. As previously discussed, the maximum width of the chamber  106  may be selected based on the maximum width W FMax . The maximum width of the chamber  106  that forms part of the fluid receiving portion  112  may be selected using the same factors as the maximum width W FMax . The maximum width of the chamber  106  may also be selected based on the thickness of the fluid impermeable barrier  104  and the desired amount of fluid that may be held in the chamber  106 . 
     As previously discussed, the fluid collection device  102  includes an longitudinal portion  114  that extends from the fluid receiving portion  112 . For example, as illustrated, the longitudinal portion  114  extends from a vertex of the generally triangular shape of the fluid receiving portion  112 . The longitudinal portion  114  is distinguishable from the fluid receiving portion  112  based on the widths thereof. For example, in the illustrated embodiment, the width of the fluid receiving portion  112  generally decreases from the maximum width W FMax  to the longitudinal portion  114  while the thickness of the longitudinal portion  114  remains substantially constant from the intersection of the fluid receiving portion  112  and the longitudinal portion  114  along at least a portion of a length of the longitudinal portion  114 . 
     The longitudinal portion  114  is configured to be positioned at and/or near the perineum of an individual. In other words, the longitudinal portion  114  is configured to be positioned between the thighs of the individual. Due to the limited space at and/or near the perineum of the individual, the width of the longitudinal portion  114  is generally less than the width of the fluid receiving portion  112 . However, it is noted that the width of the longitudinal portion  114  may be greater than localized regions of the fluid receiving portion  112  (e.g., the width of the longitudinal portion  114  is greater than the width of the outlet  110  and the portions of the fluid receiving portion  112  about the outlet  110 ). The longitudinal portion  114  exhibits a maximum width W LMax  that is about 1 cm to about 7.5 cm, such as in ranges of about 1 cm to about 2 cm, about 1.5 cm to about 2.5 cm, about 2 cm to about 3 cm, about 2.5 cm to about 3.5 cm, about 3 cm to about 4 cm, about 3.5 cm to about 4.5 cm, about 4 cm to about 5 cm, about 4.5 cm to about 5.5 cm, about 5 cm to about 6 cm, about 5.5 cm to about 6.5 cm, about 6 cm to about 7 cm, or about 6.5 cm to about 7.5 cm. The maximum width W LMax  may be selected based on the required attachment force required to maintain the fluid receiving portion  112  adjacent to the urethral opening of the individual since, generally, increasing the width of the longitudinal portion  114  increases the attachment force. For example, strongly attaching the longitudinal portion  114  to the individual, such as with an adhesive, may allow the longitudinal portion  114  to exhibit a smaller maximum width W LMax  than if the longitudinal portion  114  relies on friction from the perineum and/or thighs (e.g., interference fit) to hold the longitudinal portion  114  in place. Also, the maximum width W LMax  may be selected based on the size of fluid receiving portion  112  since increasing the size of the fluid receiving portion  112  requires a larger attachment force to maintain the position of the fluid receiving portion  112 . The maximum width W LMax  may be selected based on the size of the perineum and/or the space between the thighs of the individual using the fluid collection device  100  since the longitudinal portion  114  may be at least partially positioned adjacent to the perineum and/or between the thighs. 
     As previously discussed, the fluid impermeable barrier  104  exhibits a thickness that is micrometer sized to a few millimeters. As such, the portion of the chamber  106  that form part of the longitudinal portion  114  exhibits maximum width (not shown, obscured) that is comparable to the maximum width W LMax . For example, the portion of the chamber  106  that form part of the longitudinal portion  114  may exhibit a maximum width that is about 0.5 cm to about 7.5 cm, such as in ranges of about 1 cm to about 2 cm, about 1.5 cm to about 2.5 cm, about 2 cm to about 3 cm, about 2.5 cm to about 3.5 cm, about 3 cm to about 4 cm, about 3.5 cm to about 4.5 cm, about 4 cm to about 5 cm, about 4.5 cm to about 5.5 cm, about 5 cm to about 6 cm, about 5.5 cm to about 6.5 cm, about 6 cm to about 7 cm, or about 6.5 cm to about 7.5 cm. The maximum width of the chamber  106  that forms part of the longitudinal portion  114  may be selected using the same factors as the maximum width W LMax . The maximum width of the chamber  106  may also be selected based on the thickness of the fluid impermeable barrier  104  and the desired amount of fluid that may be held in the chamber  106 . 
     In the illustrated embodiment, the longitudinal portion  114  includes two edges  128  extending from the fluid receiving portion  112  and the width of the longitudinal portion  114  may be measured between the two edges  128 . The two edges  128  are illustrated as being substantially straight such that the width of the longitudinal portion  114  remains constant or substantially constant. However, it is noted that the two edges  128  may be curved or exhibit another type of contour. In an example, the two edges  128  may be convexly curved to increase contact between the longitudinal portion  114  and the thighs of the individual to improve the attachment (e.g., interference fit) between the longitudinal portion  114  and the thighs. In an example, the two edges  128  may be concavely curved to better accommodate bulges of body fat thereby making the longitudinal portion  114  more comfortable. In an example, at least a portion of the two edges  128  may be tapered to better fit between the thighs of the individual. 
     The longitudinal portion  114  also exhibits a length L L  extending between the distal tip  126  of the longitudinal portion  114  to the intersection between the fluid receiving portion  112  and the longitudinal portion  114 . The length L L  is measured perpendicularly to the length L D  of the fluid collection device  102 . The length L L  may be at least about 5 cm, at least about 7.5 cm, at least about 10 cm, at least about 12 cm, at least about 14 cm, at least about 16 cm, at least about 18 cm, at least about 20 cm, at least about 22 cm, at least about 24 cm, at least about 26 cm, at least about 28 cm at least about 30 cm, or in ranges of about 5 cm to about 10 cm, about 7.5 cm to about 12 cm, 10 cm to about 14 cm, about 12 cm to about 16 cm, at least 14 cm to about 18 cm, about 16 cm to about 20, about 18 cm to about 22 cm, about 20 cm to about 24 cm, about 22 cm to about 26 cm, about 24 cm to about 28 cm, or about 26 cm to about 30 cm. Similar to the maximum width W LMax , the length L L  of the longitudinal portion  114  may be selected based on the required attachment force required to maintain the fluid receiving portion  112  adjacent to the urethral opening of the individual since, generally, increasing the width of the longitudinal portion  114  increases the attachment force. The length L L  of the longitudinal portion  114  may be selected based on the size of the perineum since the longitudinal portion  114  may be at least partially positioned adjacent to the perineum. 
       FIG. 1B  is a cross-sectional view of the fluid collection system  100 , according to an embodiment. As shown in  FIG. 1B , the fluid collection device  102  exhibits a substantially constant thickness t along substantially the entirety of the length L D  of the fluid collection device  102 . However, in other embodiments, the thickness t may vary along the length L D . For example, as illustrated, the thickness t may be substantially constant except near the outlet  110 , near the distal tip  126 , and at the opening  108 . The uniform thickness of the fluid collection device  102  may allow the fluid collection device  102  to be worn discretely. However, the thickness of the fluid collection device  102  may vary. In an example, thickness of the fluid receiving portion  112  may be selected to be larger than the thickness of the longitudinal portion  114  to increase the volume of fluid that may be stored in the chamber  106 . In an example, the thickness of the fluid receiving portion  112  may be selected to be smaller than the thickness of the longitudinal portion  114  to further increase the ability of the fluid collection device  102  to be worn discretely. 
     As previously discussed, the fluid collection device  102  may include a fluid permeable membrane  116  disposed in the chamber  106 . The fluid permeable membrane  116  may extend across at least a portion (e.g., all) of the opening  108 . The fluid permeable membrane  116  may be configured to wick any fluid away from the opening  108  thereby allowing fluid to enter the chamber  106  and preventing the fluid from escaping the chamber  106 . The permeable properties may have wicking, capillary action, diffusion, or other similar properties or processes, and are referred to herein as “permeable” and/or “wicking.” Such “wicking” may not include absorption into the fluid permeable membrane. The fluid permeable membrane  116  may also wick the fluid generally towards an interior of the chamber  106 . The fluid permeable membrane  116  may include any material that may wick the fluid. For example, the fluid permeable membrane  116  may include fabric, such as a gauze (e.g., a silk, linen, or cotton gauze), another soft fabric, or another smooth fabric. Forming the fluid permeable membrane  116  from gauze, soft fabric, and/or smooth fabric may reduce chaffing caused by the fluid collection device  102 . In an example, the fluid permeable membrane  116  may include a one way flow fabric to prevent fluid from leaking from the chamber  106  through the fluid permeable membrane  116 . 
     The fluid collection device  102  may include a fluid permeable support  130  disposed in the chamber  106 . The fluid permeable support  130  is configured to support the fluid permeable membrane  116  since the fluid permeable membrane  116  may be formed from a foldable, flimsy, or otherwise easily deformable material. For example, the fluid permeable support  130  may be positioned such that the fluid permeable membrane  116  is disposed between the fluid permeable support  130  and the fluid impermeable barrier  104 . As such, the fluid permeable support  130  may support and maintain the position of the fluid permeable membrane  116 . The fluid permeable support  130  may be formed from any fluid permeable material that is less deformable than the fluid permeable membrane  116 . For example, the fluid permeable support  130  may include a porous polymer (e.g., nylon, polyester, polyurethane, polyethylene, polypropylene, etc.) structure (e.g., spun fibers such as spun nylon fibers) or an open cell foam. The fluid permeable support  130  may also wick any fluids that enter the chamber  106  such that, for example, the fluids are removed from the opening  108  and directed towards the tube  118 . In an example, the fluid permeable support  130  may be omitted from the fluid collection device  102 . 
     In an embodiment, at least one of the fluid permeable membrane  116  or the fluid permeable support  130  may be a wicking material configured to wick any of the bodily fluids away from the opening  108 , thereby preventing bodily fluids from escaping the chamber  106 . The wicking material may not include absorption of the bodily fluids into the wicking material. Put another way, substantially no absorption of the bodily fluids into the wicking material may take place after the wicking material is exposed to the bodily fluids. While no absorption is desired, the term “substantially no absorption” may allow for nominal amounts of absorption of the bodily fluids into the wicking material (e.g., absorbency), such as about 10 wt % of the dry weight of the wicking material, about 7 wt %, about 5 wt %, about 3 wt %, about 2 wt %, about 1 wt %, or about 0.5 wt % of the dry weight of the wicking material. 
     In an embodiment, the fluid permeable membrane  116  and the fluid permeable support  130  may at least substantially completely fill the portions of the chamber  106  that are not occupied by the tube  118 . In an embodiment, the fluid permeable membrane  116  and the fluid permeable support  130  do not substantially completely fill the portions of the chamber  106  that are not occupied by the tube  118 . In such an embodiment, the fluid collection device  102  includes a reservoir  132  disposed in the chamber  106 . The reservoir  132  is a substantially unoccupied portion of the chamber  106 . The fluids that are in the chamber  106  may flow through the fluid permeable membrane  116  and/or fluid permeable support  130  to the reservoir  132 . The reservoir  132  may store at least some of the fluids therein. 
     In an embodiment, the inlet of the tube  118  (e.g., distal tip of the tube  118 ) may be disposed in or near the reservoir  132 . For example, the inlet of the tube  118  may be positioned in the reservoir  132  (as illustrated) or may be flush with the portions of the fluid permeable membrane  116  and/or fluid permeable support  130  that partially define the reservoir  132 . In an embodiment, the inlet of the tube  118  may be spaced from the reservoir  132 , for example, by at least a portion of the fluid permeable support  130 . 
     In an example, the reservoir  132  may be located at and/or near the distal tip  126 . However, the reservoir  132  may be located at different locations in the chamber  106 . For example, the reservoir  132  may be located at and/or near the outlet  110 . In another example, fluid collection device  102  may include multiple reservoirs, such as a first reservoir that is located at and/or near the distal tip  126  and a second reservoir at and/or near the outlet  110 . In another example, the fluid permeable support  130  is spaced from at least a portion of the tube  118  and the reservoir  132  may be the space between the fluid permeable support  130  and the tube  118 . 
       FIG. 2  is a top plan view of a portion of a fluid collection system  200 , according to an embodiment. Except as otherwise disclosed herein, the fluid collection system  200  is the same or substantially similar to any of the fluid collection systems disclosed herein. For example, the fluid collection system  200  may include a fluid collection device  202 . The fluid collection device  202  includes a fluid impermeable barrier  204  defining a chamber (not shown), an opening  208 , and an outlet  210  configured to receive a tube  218 . The fluid collection device  202  also includes a fluid receiving portion  212  that defines the opening  208  and an longitudinal portion  214  extending from the fluid receiving portion  212 . 
     The fluid collection device  202  also includes a slit  234 . The slit  234  extends from the opening  208  and into the longitudinal portion  214 . As such, the slit  234  is at least partially defined by the longitudinal portion  214  (e.g., the portion of the fluid impermeable barrier  204  that forms part of the fluid receiving portion  212 ). The slit  234  may be configured to receive fluid (e.g., urine or other bodily fluid) that is not received by the opening  208 . For example, fluid that is not received by the opening  208  may trickle down the perineum of the individual since the groin channels the fluid towards the perineum when the individual is lying on the individual&#39;s back, sitting up, or standing. The slit  234  is positioned at or near the perineum of the individual since the longitudinal portion  214  is positioned at or near the perineum. This position of the slit  234  allows the slit  234  to receiving at least some of the fluid that trickles down the perineum. 
     In an embodiment, the slit  234  exhibits a width that is relatively narrow relative to the width of the longitudinal portion  214 . For example, the slit  234  exhibits a width that is at most about 50% (e.g., at most about 40%, at most about 30%, at most about 20%, or in ranges of about 5% to about 20%, about 15% to about 30%, about 20% to about 40%, or about 30% to about 50%) the corresponding (i.e., parallel and overlapping) width of the longitudinal portion  214 . The relatively narrow width of the slit  234  provides sufficient surface area for an adhesive to be applied to the front face  220  of the longitudinal portion  214 . The width of the slit  234  may be selected based on the corresponding width of the longitudinal portion  214  because, generally, increasing the corresponding width of the longitudinal portion  214  allows for the width of the slit  234  to occupy a greater percentage of the corresponding width. However, it is noted that in some embodiments, the slit  234  may exhibit a width that is more than about 50% (e.g., 50% to about 75% or about 50% to about 60%) the corresponding width of the longitudinal portion  214 . 
     In an embodiment, the slit  234  extends along a majority of the length of the longitudinal portion  214 . In such an embodiment, the slit  234  may receive more fluid than if the slit  234  extending only along a small percentage (e.g., less than 50%) of the length of the longitudinal portion  214 . However, in some embodiments, the slit  234  may only extend along a small percentage of the length of the longitudinal portion  214 . 
     The fluid receiving portions of the fluid collection devices illustrated in  FIGS. 1A and 2  exhibit a generally triangular shape. However, as previously discussed, the fluid receiving portions of any of the fluid collection devices disclosed herein may exhibit any other suitable shape. For example,  FIG. 3  is a top plan view of a portion of a fluid collection system  300 , according to an embodiment. Except as otherwise disclosed herein, the fluid collection system  300  is the same as or substantially similar to any of the fluid collection systems disclosed herein. For example, the fluid collection system  300  includes a fluid collection device  302  that includes a fluid receiving portion  312  defining an opening  308  and an longitudinal portion  314  extending from the fluid receiving portion  312 . 
     The fluid receiving portion  312  exhibits a generally circular shape. The generally circular shape of the fluid receiving portion  312  allows the opening  308  to exhibit a generally circular shape while also exhibiting a shape that corresponds to the shape of the fluid receiving portion  312 . As previously discussed, allowing the opening  308  to exhibit the corresponding shape of the fluid receiving portion  312  allows the opening  308  to exhibit the largest possible size. Further, as previously discussed, the generally circular shape of the opening  308  may allow the fluid receiving portion  312  to be positioned such that the distance from the urethral opening to the edge of the opening  308  is substantially constant. 
     It is noted that the fluid receiving portions disclosed herein may exhibit other shapes. For example, the fluid receiving portions may exhibit a generally trapezoidal shape, a generally semicircular shape, a generally rectangular shape, a generally oval shape, or a generally pentagonal shape. 
     As previously discussed, the fluid collection devices disclosed herein may be positioned on an individual.  FIG. 4  is a front view of a urine collection system  400  worn by an individual  450 , according to an embodiment. Except as otherwise disclosed herein, the urine collection system  400  is the same or substantially similar to any of the urine collection systems disclosed herein. For example, the urine collection system  400  may include a fluid collection device  402  including a fluid receiving portion  412  and an longitudinal portion  414 . In the illustrated embodiment, the fluid collection device  402  is the same or substantially similar to the fluid collection device  102  or  202  of  FIGS. 1A-2 . However, it is noted that the fluid collection device  402  may be the same or similar to any of the other fluid collection devices disclosed herein. 
     The individual  450  includes a groin  452 , a perineum  454 , and two thighs  456 . In the illustrated embodiment, the thighs  456  of the individual  450  are illustrated as being separated such that the view of the fluid collection device  402  is unobstructed. However, there is no requirement that the thighs  456  of the individual  450  are separated and, in some embodiments, the thighs  456  of the individual  450  may need to contact each other or at least be positioned proximate to each other to maintain the position of the fluid collection device  402 . 
     The fluid collection device  402  is positioned on the individual  450  such that the fluid receiving portion  412  is positioned adjacent to the urethral opening (not shown, obscured) of the individual  450 . In other words, the fluid receiving portion  412  is positioned adjacent to the groin  452  of the individual  450 . The longitudinal portion  414  is then positioned against and/or near the perineum  454  of the individual  450 . This allows the fluid collection device  402  to receive fluid (e.g., urine) from the individual  450  and the maintain the position of the fluid collection device  402  relative to the individual  450 , as discussed in more detail above. 
       FIG. 5  is a schematic illustrating of a fluid collection system  500 , according to an embodiment. The fluid collection system  500  includes a fluid collection device  502  that is the same or substantially similar to any of the fluid collection devices disclosed herein. For example, the fluid collection device  502  may include a fluid receiving portion and an longitudinal portion. The fluid collection system  500  also include a fluid collection container  536  that is in indirectly fluid communication with the fluid collection device  502  via at least one first tube  518  (e.g., tube  118  or  218  of  FIGS. 1A-2 ). The fluid collection container  536  may be positioned downstream from the fluid collection device  502 . The fluid collection system  500  also includes a suction source  538  that is configured to apply a suction force (e.g., a continuous suction force) to the chamber of the fluid collection device  502  thereby removing fluid from the chamber and depositing the fluid in the fluid collection container  536 . In the illustrated embodiment, the suction source  538  is vacuum source. In such an embodiment, the suction source  538  is positioned downstream from the fluid collection container  536  and may be in fluid communication with the fluid collection container  536  via at least one second tube  540 . However, in an embodiment, the suction source  538  is a gas source that is positioned upstream from the fluid collection device  502 . Examples of fluid collection systems that include gas sources are disclosed in PCT Application No. PCT/US2019/029609 filed on Apr. 29, 2019, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein, in its entirety, by this reference. 
       FIG. 6  is a flow diagram of a method  600  to use any of the fluid collection devices and/or fluid collection systems disclosed herein, according to an embodiment. The method  600  may include act  605 , which recites “providing a fluid collection device.” Act  605  may be followed by act  610 , which recites “positioning an opening of the fluid collection device adjacent to a urethral opening of an individual.” Act  610  may be followed by act  615 , which recites “positioning an longitudinal portion of the fluid collection device against a perineum and/or upper thighs of the individual.” 
     Acts  605 ,  610 ,  615  of the method  600  are for illustrative purposes. For example, the act  605 ,  610 ,  615  of the method  600  may be performed in different orders, split into multiple acts, modified, supplemented, or combined. In an example, one or more of the acts  605 ,  610 ,  615  of the method  600  may be omitted from the method  600 . 
     Act  605  recites “providing a fluid collection device.” Act  605  includes providing any of the fluid collection devices disclosed herein. For example, act  605  may include providing a fluid collection device that includes a fluid impermeable barrier defining a chamber, an opening, and an outlet. The fluid collection device may also include a fluid permeable membrane extending across the opening. The fluid collection device may also include a fluid receiving portion that includes a portion of the fluid impermeable barrier that at least partially defines the opening and an longitudinal portion extending from the fluid receiving portion. 
     Act  610  recites “positioning an opening of the fluid collection device adjacent to a urethral opening of an individual.” In an example, act  610  may include positioning the opening adjacent to a buried penis. In an example, act  610  may include positioning the opening adjacent to a female urethral opening or a non-buried penis. 
     Act  615  recites “positioning an longitudinal portion of the fluid collection device against a perineum and/or upper thighs of the individual.” In an example, act  615  includes attaching the longitudinal portion against the perineum and/or upper thighs with an adhesive. In an example, act  615  includes attaching the longitudinal portion against the perineum and/or upper thighs by merely positioning the longitudinal portion at or near the perineum and allowing the contact between longitudinal portion and the thighs to hold the longitudinal portion in its position. 
     The method  600  may also include receiving fluids (e.g., urine) into the chamber. For example, a urethral opening may emit urine that contacts the fluid permeable membrane and the fluid permeable membrane may wick the urine into the chamber. A suction force may be applied to the chamber which may facilitate the fluid permeable membrane wicking the urine into the chamber. The urine that is wicked into the chamber may flow from the fluid permeable membrane towards at least one inlet of a tube that is disposed in the chamber. For example, the urine may flow from the fluid permeable membrane, through the fluid permeable support, into the fluid reservoir, and into the tube. 
     As previously discussed, a suction force may be applied to the chamber. The suction force may be a continuous suction force or a discontinuous suction force. The suction force may pull the fluids that are present in the chamber into the tube, through the tube, to the fluid collection container, and deposit the fluid in the fluid collection container. 
     Terms of degree (e.g., “about,” “substantially,” “generally,” etc.) indicate structurally or functionally insignificant variations. In an example, when the term of degree is included with a term indicating quantity, the term of degree is interpreted to mean±10%, ±5%, ±2%, or 0% of the term indicating quantity. In an example, when the term of degree is used to modify a shape, the term of degree indicates that the shape being modified by the term of degree has the appearance of the disclosed shape. For instance, the term of degree may be used to indicate that the shape may have rounded corners instead of sharp corners, curved edges instead of straight edges, one or more protrusions extending therefrom, is oblong, is the same as the disclosed shape, etc. 
     While various aspects and embodiments have been disclosed herein, other aspects and embodiments are contemplated. The various aspects and embodiment disclosed herein are for purposes of illustration and are not intended to be limiting.