Patent Publication Number: US-11638779-B2

Title: Adaptable wound drainage system

Description:
RELATED APPLICATION 
     This application is a continuation of U.S. application Ser. No. 16/418,364, filed May 21, 2019, which is a continuation of U.S. application Ser. No. 15/331,216, filed Oct. 21, 2016, now U.S. Pat. No. 10,342,901, which is a continuation of U.S. application Ser. No. 14/082,906, filed Nov. 18, 2013, now U.S. Pat. No. 9,474,883, which claims the benefit, under 35 USC § 119(e), of the filing of U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 61/734,295, entitled “Adaptable Wound Drainage System,” filed Dec. 6, 2012, all of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entireties. 
    
    
     BACKGROUND 
     The subject matter disclosed herein relates generally to medical wound care systems, and more particularly, but not by way of limitation, to wound drainage devices, systems, and methods. The devices, systems, and methods disclosed may provide increased configurability for adapting to multi-dimensional wounds, and may be particularly suitable for use with reduced pressure to enhance the drainage of fluids from the wound. 
     Common wound drainage devices, systems, and methods typically require multiple incision sites in a patient to provide treatment for a multi-dimensional wound that may have a large surface area or an unusual shape. Further, known devices, systems, and methods are typically difficult to configure and seal at the wound site, and can cause damage to tissue and pain for the patient upon removal. 
     Thus, improvements to wound drainage devices, systems, and methods that provide increased configurability and ease of placement for treatment of multi-dimensional wounds while reducing the potential for damage to tissue and pain for the patient are desirable. Such improvements may reduce the chance of infection, improve cosmetic appearance, reduce the pooling of fluids, and reduce the potential for seroma or hematoma. 
     SUMMARY 
     Shortcomings with certain aspects of wound drainage devices, systems, and methods are addressed as shown and described in a variety of illustrative, non-limiting embodiments herein. 
     According to an illustrative, non-limiting embodiment, a drainage system for draining fluid from a tissue site may include a drainage manifold, a transitional connector, and a drainage tube. The drainage manifold may have a longitudinal axis and may include a plurality of elongate members each having a first end, a second end, and an outer wall. The first end of each of the elongate members may be moveable between a gathered position and a dispersed position relative to the longitudinal axis of the drainage manifold. When the first end of each of the elongate members is in the gathered position, the elongate members may be releaseably secured longitudinally and circumferentially about the longitudinal axis of the drainage manifold. Each of the elongate members may further include a longitudinal duct and a reinforced portion. The longitudinal duct may be positioned on the outer wall and between the first end and the second end of the elongate members. The reinforced portion may be positioned between the first end and the second end of the elongate members. The transitional connector may have a first end and an opposing second end. The first end of the transitional connector may be coupled to the drainage manifold. The drainage tube may be coupled to the second end of the transitional connector and in fluid communication with the drainage manifold and the longitudinal duct of each of the elongate members. 
     According to another illustrative, non-limiting embodiment, a drainage system for draining fluid from a tissue site may include a drainage manifold, a transitional connector, and a drainage tube. The drainage manifold may have a longitudinal axis and may include an elongate support, a plurality of elongate members, and a plurality of sacrificial webs. The elongate support may have a length and an external surface. The length of the elongate support may be positioned on the longitudinal axis of the drainage manifold. The plurality of elongate members may each have a first end, a second end, and an outer wall. The first end of each of the elongate members may be moveable between a gathered position and a dispersed position relative to the longitudinal axis of the drainage manifold. When the first end of the elongate member is in the gathered position, the elongate member may be releaseably secured longitudinally and circumferentially about the external surface of the elongate support. Each of the elongate members may further include a longitudinal duct positioned on the outer wall and between the first end and the second end of the elongate member. At least one of the plurality of sacrificial webs may be positioned between the elongate member and the elongate support to releaseably secure the elongate member about the elongate support when the first end of the elongate member is in the gathered position. The transitional connector may have a first end and an opposing second end. The first end of the transitional connector may be coupled to the drainage manifold. The drainage tube may be coupled to the second end of the transitional connector and in fluid communication with the drainage manifold and the longitudinal duct of each of the elongate members. 
     According to yet another illustrative, non-limiting embodiment, a drainage manifold for draining fluid from a tissue site may have a longitudinal axis and may include an elongate support, a plurality of elongate members, and a plurality of sacrificial webs. The elongate support may have a length, an external surface, and an inner lumen. The length of the elongate support may be positioned on the longitudinal axis of the drainage manifold. The plurality of elongate members may each have a first end, a second end, and an outer wall. The first end of each of the elongate members may be moveable between a gathered position and a dispersed position relative to the longitudinal axis of the drainage manifold. When the first end of the elongate member is in the gathered position, the elongate member may be releaseably secured longitudinally and circumferentially about the external surface of the elongate support. Each of the elongate members may further include a longitudinal duct positioned on the outer wall and between the first end and the second end of the elongate member, an inner lumen, and an opening disposed through the outer wall. The opening may provide fluid communication between the inner lumen of the elongate member and the outer wall. At least one of the plurality of sacrificial webs may be positioned between the elongate member and the elongate support to releaseably secure the elongate member about the elongate support when the first end of the elongate member is in the gathered position. 
     According to still another illustrative, non-limiting embodiment, a drainage system for draining fluid from a tissue site may include a drainage manifold, a reduced-pressure source, and a fluid canister. The drainage manifold may include an elongate support and a plurality of elongate members. The elongate support may have a length, an external surface, an inner lumen, and a plurality of openings disposed through the external surface to provide fluid communication between the external surface and the inner lumen. The plurality of elongate members may each have a first end, a second end, and an outer wall. The first end of each of the elongate members may be moveable relative to the elongate support. The second end of each of the elongate members may be secured about the external surface of the elongate support. The outer wall of each of the elongate members may be in fluid communication with the inner lumen in the elongate support. The reduced-pressure source may be fluidly coupled to the elongate support and adapted to provide a reduced pressure to the drainage manifold and the inner lumen in the elongate support. The fluid canister may be positioned in fluid communication between the elongate support and the reduced-pressure source. The fluid canister may be adapted to retain fluid communicated from the drainage manifold. 
     Other features and advantages of the illustrative embodiments will become apparent with reference to the drawings and detailed description that follow. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
       A more complete understanding of this specification may be obtained by reference to the following detailed description when taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, wherein: 
         FIG.  1    is a perspective view of an illustrative embodiment of a drainage system applied to a tissue site; 
         FIG.  2 A  is a perspective, cut-away view of an illustrative embodiment of a drainage system depicting a drainage manifold having a plurality of elongate members in a gathered position; 
         FIG.  2 B  is a perspective view of the drainage manifold of  FIG.  2 A , illustrating the plurality of elongate members in a dispersed position; 
         FIG.  2 C  is a cross-section view of the drainage manifold of  FIG.  2 A  taken at line  2 C- 2 C; 
         FIG.  2 D  is a cross-section view of the drainage manifold of  FIG.  2 A  taken at line  2 D- 2 D; 
         FIG.  3 A  is a perspective, cut-away view of another illustrative embodiment of a drainage system depicting a drainage manifold having a plurality of elongate members in a gathered position; 
         FIG.  3 B  is a perspective view of the drainage manifold of  FIG.  3 A , illustrating the plurality of elongate members in a dispersed position; 
         FIG.  3 C  is a cross-section view of the drainage manifold of  FIG.  3 A  taken at line  3 C- 3 C; 
         FIG.  3 D  is a cross-section view of the drainage manifold of  FIG.  3 A  taken at line  3 D- 3 D; 
         FIG.  4 A  is a perspective, cut-away view of another illustrative embodiment of a drainage system depicting a drainage manifold having a plurality of elongate members in a gathered position; 
         FIG.  4 B  is a perspective view of the drainage manifold of  FIG.  4 A , illustrating the plurality of elongate members in a dispersed position; 
         FIG.  4 C  is a cross-section view of the drainage manifold of  FIG.  4 A  taken at line  4 C- 4 C; 
         FIG.  4 D  is a cross-section view of the drainage manifold of  FIG.  4 A  taken at line  4 D- 4 D; 
         FIG.  5 A  is a perspective, cut-away view of another illustrative embodiment of a drainage system depicting a drainage manifold having a plurality of elongate members; and 
         FIG.  5 B  is a perspective view of the drainage manifold depicted in  FIG.  5 A . 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
     In the following detailed description of the non-limiting, illustrative embodiments, reference is made to the accompanying drawings that form a part hereof. Other embodiments may be utilized and logical, structural, mechanical, electrical, and chemical changes may be made without departing from the scope of this specification. To avoid detail not necessary to enable those skilled in the art to practice the embodiments described herein, the detailed description may omit certain information known to those skilled in the art. The following detailed description is, therefore, provided without limitation and with the scope of the illustrative embodiments being defined by the appended claims. As used herein, unless otherwise indicated, “or” does not require mutual exclusivity. 
     Referring generally to drawing  FIGS.  1 - 5 B , depicted therein are illustrative embodiments of a drainage system  100  that may include a drainage manifold  102 , a transitional connector  104 , and a drainage tube  106 . The drainage system  100  may be particularly suitable for treating a tissue site  108 , and may utilize reduced pressure to enhance the drainage of fluids from the tissue site  108 . Thus, the drainage system  100  may additionally include a reduced-pressure source  110  adapted to provide reduced pressure as part of the drainage system  100 . Further, the drainage system  100  may include a fluid canister  112  adapted to retain fluid extracted from, for example, the tissue site  108 . 
     The tissue site  108  may be, for example, a multi-dimensional tissue site  114  that may include multiple cavities  116  requiring drainage or treatment. The cavities  116  may be positioned or otherwise formed between multiple tissue layers  118 . As depicted in  FIG.  1   , for example, the drainage system  100  may be applied to the tissue site  108  through an incision  120  that extends through or otherwise involves epidermis  122 , dermis  124 , and subcutaneous tissue  126 . The drainage system  100  may be utilized at other tissue sites. 
     The tissue site  108  may be the bodily tissue of any human, animal, or other organism, including bone tissue, adipose tissue, muscle tissue, dermal tissue, vascular tissue, connective tissue, cartilage, tendons, ligaments, or any other tissue. Treatment of the tissue site  108  may include the removal of fluids, such as, for example, exudate or ascites, or the instillation of fluid to the tissue site  108 . 
     As used herein, “reduced pressure” generally refers to a pressure less than the ambient pressure at the tissue site  108  being subjected to treatment. This reduced pressure may be less than the atmospheric pressure. In some embodiments, the reduced pressure may be less than a hydrostatic pressure at a tissue site. Unless otherwise indicated, values of pressure stated herein are gauge pressures. While the amount and nature of reduced pressure applied to a tissue site may vary according to the application, the reduced pressure may be between about −5 mm Hg to about −500 mm Hg. In some embodiments, the reduced pressure may be in a therapeutic range between about −100 mm Hg to about −200 mm Hg. 
     The reduced pressure delivered may be constant or varied, patterned or random, and may be delivered continuously or intermittently. Although the terms “vacuum” and “negative pressure” may be used to describe the pressure applied to a tissue site, the actual pressure applied to a tissue site may be more than the pressure normally associated with a complete vacuum. Consistent with the use herein, an increase in reduced pressure or vacuum pressure typically refers to a relative reduction in absolute pressure. 
     In the embodiments of  FIGS.  1 - 5 B , the reduced-pressure source  110  may be fluidly coupled to the drainage tube  106 . The drainage tube  106  may be in fluid communication with the transitional connector  104  and the drainage manifold  102  as will be described below. Further, the fluid canister  112  may be fluidly coupled between the drainage tube  106  and the reduced-pressure source  110 . As shown, the drainage tube  106  may be fluidly coupled to the fluid canister  112 . A fluid conduit  128  may be coupled between the fluid canister  112  and the reduced-pressure source  110  to provide fluid communication and reduced pressure from the reduced-pressure source  110  to, for example, the fluid canister  112 , the drainage tube  106 , the transitional connector  104 , and the drainage manifold  102 . The drainage tube  106  and the fluid conduit  128  may be coupled to an upper portion of the fluid canister  112  to prevent the reduced pressure from interfering with fluid collecting at a lower portion of the fluid canister  112 . 
     As used herein, the term “coupled” may include coupling with a separate object or direct coupling. The term “coupled” may also encompass two or more components that are continuous with one another by virtue of each of the components being formed from the same piece of material. Also, the term “coupled” may include chemical coupling, such as with a chemical bond, or mechanical, thermal, or electrical coupling. Fluid coupling may refer to a coupling permitting fluid to be in communication between the designated parts or locations. 
     The reduced-pressure source  110  may be any suitable device for providing reduced pressure as described herein, such as, for example, a vacuum pump, wall suction, or other source. The fluid canister  112  may be any suitable containment device capable of retaining fluid and communicating reduced pressure from the reduced-pressure source  110  to other components of the drainage system  100 , such as the drainage manifold  102 . 
     In some embodiments, one or more monitoring devices (not shown) may be fluidly coupled to the drainage system  100 . The monitoring devices may be, for example, a pressure-feedback device, a volume detection system, a blood detection system, an infection detection system, a flow monitoring system, a temperature monitoring system, or similar device. In some embodiments, the monitoring devices may be formed integrally with the reduced-pressure source  110 . 
     The transitional connector  104  may have a first end  130 , an opposing second end  132 , a center  134  positioned substantially equidistant between the first end  130  and the second end  132 , an internal surface  136 , and an external surface  138 . The first end  130  of the transitional connector  104  may be fluidly coupled to the drainage manifold  102 , and the second end  132  of the transitional connector  104  may be fluidly coupled to the drainage tube  106 . Thus, the drainage tube  106  may be in fluid communication with the drainage manifold  102 . The transitional connector  104  may be adapted to provide a smooth external profile between the drainage manifold  102  and the drainage tube  106 . For example, in some embodiments, the transitional connector  104  may have a first taper  140  and an opposing second taper  142 . The first taper  140  may provide a tapered transition from an outside diameter at the center  134  of the transitional connector  104  to a smaller outside diameter at the first end  130  of the transitional connector  104 . Similarly, the second taper  142  may provide a tapered transition from the outside diameter at the center  134  to a smaller outside diameter at the second end  132  of the transitional connector  104 . The first taper  140  and the second taper  142  may have any shape or angle to provide an external profile for the transitional connector  104  suitable for a particular application. In other embodiments, the transitional connector  104  may be omitted and the drainage manifold  102  may be coupled to the drainage tube  106  or formed integrally with the drainage tube  106 . Further, in some embodiments, the external surface  138  and the internal surface  136  of the transitional connector  104  may have a substantially circular cross-section. 
     The drainage manifold  102 , the transitional connector  104 , and the drainage tube  106  may be formed, for example, from a soft polymer or other pliable material. As non-limiting examples, the drainage manifold  102 , the transitional connector  104 , and the drainage tube  106  may be formed from a silicone elastomer, polyurethane, polyethylene, polypropylene, polyvinyl chloride (PVC), fluorosilicone, ethylene-propylene, acrylic, or similar material. In some embodiments, the drainage manifold  102  may be extruded from DEHP-free PVC. In another embodiment, the drainage manifold  102 , the transitional connector  104 , and the drainage tube  106  may be molded, casted, or extruded, and may be formed as an integral unit. In yet another embodiment, the transitional connector  104  may be a silicone curable adhesive bonded joint for coupling the drainage manifold  102  and the drainage tube  106  to one another. To suit a particular application, the drainage manifold  102  may additionally include color-coding, materials for X-Ray detection, graduation markings, and coatings to reduce clogging and the presence of bacteria. 
     Referring now to the embodiments of  FIGS.  2 A- 2 D , a drainage manifold  202  may have a longitudinal axis  250  and may include a plurality of elongate members  252 , an elongate support  254 , and a plurality of sacrificial webs  256 . Each of the elongate members  252  may have a first end  258 , a second end  260 , and an outer wall  262 . The first end  258  of each of the elongate members  252  may be moveable between a gathered position and a dispersed position relative to the longitudinal axis  250  of the drainage manifold  202 . When the first end  258  of each of the elongate members  252  is in the gathered position, the elongate members  252  may be releaseably secured longitudinally and circumferentially about the longitudinal axis  250  of the drainage manifold  202 . The second end  260  of each of the elongate members  252  may be coupled to the internal surface  136  of the transitional connector  104  and at the first end  130  of the transitional connector  104  such that the drainage tube  106  is in fluid communication with at least the outer wall  262  of each of the elongate members  252 . Although  FIGS.  2 A- 2 D  depict three of the elongate members  252 , the drainage manifold  202  may include any number of the elongate members  252  to suit a particular application. 
     As shown in  FIGS.  2 A- 2 D , each of the elongate members  252  may have an oblong cross-sectional shape and may additionally include a longitudinal duct  264 , an inner lumen  266 , an opening  268 , a chamfer  270 , a reinforced portion  272 , a trimmable tip  274 , and a mating surface  276 . The longitudinal duct  264  may be positioned on the outer wall  262  and between the first end  258  and the second end  260  of the elongate member  252 . As shown in  FIGS.  2 A- 2 D , each of the elongate members  252  may include a plurality of longitudinal ducts  264  positioned as described above. The drainage tube  106  may be in fluid communication with at least the longitudinal duct  264  of each of the elongate members  252 . 
     Each of the elongate members  252  may carry the inner lumen  266 , for example, internally along the length of the elongate member  252  and between the first and the second end  258 ,  260  of the elongate member  252 . The drainage tube  106  may be in fluid communication with at least the inner lumen  266  in each of the elongate members  252 . Each of the elongate members  252  may have the opening  268  disposed through the outer wall  262  of the elongate member  252  to provide fluid communication between the inner lumen  266  of the elongate member  252  and the outer wall  262  of the elongate member  252 . The oblong cross-sectional shape of each of the elongate members  252  may enhance the ability of the elongate member  252  to resist collapsing of the inner lumen  266  when positioned at the tissue site  108 . 
     As shown in  FIGS.  2 A- 2 D , the opening  268  may be a longitudinal channel  278  positioned between the first and the second end  258 ,  260  of the elongate member  252 . In another embodiment, each of the elongate members  252  may have a plurality of the openings  268  disposed through the outer wall  262  of the elongate member  252 . Each of the elongate members  252  may have the chamfer  270  positioned on the abutting surface between the opening  268  and the outer wall  262  of the elongate member  252 . 
     Each of the elongate members  252  may carry the reinforced portion  272  between the first and the second end  258 ,  260  of the elongate member  252 . The reinforced portion  272  may be, for example, a formable titanium wire formed integrally into each of the elongate members  252 . Each of the elongate members  252  may carry the trimmable tip  274  at the first end  258  of the elongate member  252 . If equipped with the trimmable tip  274 , the elongate member  252  may carry the reinforced portion  272  between the trimmable tip  274  and the second end  260  of the elongate member  252 . Thus, the trimmable tip  274  may be trimmed or otherwise cut to a desired length without exposing or otherwise interfering with the reinforced portion  272  of the elongate member  252 . 
     Each of the elongate members  252  may carry the mating surface  276  that may be adapted to engage the internal surface  136  of the transitional connector  104 . As shown in  FIGS.  2 A- 2 D , the mating surface  276  of each of the elongate members  252  may extend longitudinally between the first and the second end  258 ,  260  of the elongate member  252  and on the outer wall  262  of the elongate member  252 . Further, each of the elongate members  252  may include a plurality of the mating surfaces  276 . In another embodiment, each of the elongate members  252  may carry the mating surface  276  on a portion of the elongate member  252  at the second end  260  for engaging the internal surface  136  of the transitional connector  104 . The mating surface  276  of each of the elongate members  252  may cooperate with one another to provide an outer boundary  280  for the drainage manifold  202  that may be compatible with the internal surface  136  of the transitional connector  104 . For example, as shown in  FIGS.  2 C- 2 D , the outer boundary  280  of the drainage manifold  202  may be circular in shape and may have an outer dimension sized to interferingly engage a complementary circular shape and inner dimension of the internal surface  136  of the transitional connector  104 . 
     The elongate support  254  may have a length and an external surface  282 . The drainage manifold  202  may carry the elongate support  254  on the longitudinal axis  250  of the drainage manifold  202 . When the first end  258  of the elongate member  252  is in the gathered position described above, the elongate member  252  may be releaseably secured longitudinally and circumferentially about the external surface  282  of the elongate support  254 . The drainage tube  106  may be in fluid communication with at least the external surface  282  of the elongate support  254 . 
     As shown in  FIGS.  2 A- 2 D , the elongate support  254  may additionally include a plurality of longitudinal protrusions  284 , an inner lumen  286 , an opening  288 , and a chamfer  289 . The elongate support  254  may carry the plurality of longitudinal protrusions  284  on the external surface  282  and along the length of the elongate support  254 . The longitudinal protrusions  284  and the external surface  282  may cooperate to define at least one longitudinal groove  290 . The drainage tube  106  may be in fluid communication with at least the longitudinal groove  290 . 
     The elongate support  254  may carry the inner lumen  286 , for example, internally along the length of the elongate support  254 . The drainage tube  106  may be in fluid communication with at least the inner lumen  286  in the elongate support  254 . The elongate support  254  may have the opening  288  disposed through the external surface  282  of the elongate support  254  to provide fluid communication between the inner lumen  286  of the elongate support  254  and the external surface  282  of the elongate support  254 . As shown in  FIG.  2 B , the elongate support  254  may have a plurality of the openings  288  positioned along the length of the elongate support  254 . Further, the elongate support  254  may have the chamfer  289  positioned on the abutting surface between the opening  288  and the external surface  282  of the elongate support  254 . 
     The drainage manifold  202  may carry at least one of the sacrificial webs  256  between the elongate member  252  and the elongate support  254  to releaseably secure the elongate member  252  about the elongate support  254  when the first end  258  of the elongate member  252  is in the gathered position. The sacrificial web  256  may be severable upon application of a force, such as a pulling force, directed to pull or otherwise separate the elongate member  252  away from the elongate support  254 . For example, the force may be applied on the elongate member  252  and directed transverse to the longitudinal axis  250  of the drainage manifold  202 . The thickness of the sacrificial web  256  may be sized such that the sacrificial web  256  may sever upon application of a threshold amount of the force, permitting the elongate member  252  to separate from the elongate support  254 . In some embodiments, the threshold amount of the force may be less than an amount of force required to sever another component of the drainage manifold  202 . Thus, the application of the threshold force to the elongate member  252  may prevent damage to other components of the drainage manifold  202 . In some embodiments, each of the sacrificial webs  256  may, for example, have a score or a perforation (not shown) that may be positioned along the length of the sacrificial web  256  and adapted to enhance the separation of the elongate member  252  from the elongate support  254 . For example, the score or perforation may enhance the separation of the elongate member  252  from the elongate support  254  along a predictable or desired path defined by the score or perforation such as, for example, a substantially straight line. The threshold force required to sever the sacrificial web  256  along the score or perforation to separate the elongate member  252  from the elongate support  254  may be less than the force required to sever the sacrificial web  256  at another location. The plurality of the sacrificial webs  256  may permit a physician, for example, to configure the drainage manifold  202  to treat a larger surface area, without a cutting instrument or other instrument, by pulling the elongate members  252  away from the elongate support  254  by hand. 
     Referring now to the embodiments of  FIGS.  3 A- 3 D , a drainage manifold  302  may have a longitudinal axis  350  and may include a plurality of elongate members  352 , an elongate support  354 , and a plurality of sacrificial webs  356 . Each of the elongate members  352  may have a first end  358 , a second end  360 , and an outer wall  362 . The first end  358  of each of the elongate members  352  may be moveable between a gathered position and a dispersed position relative to the longitudinal axis  350  of the drainage manifold  302 . When the first end  358  of each of the elongate members  352  is in the gathered position, the elongate members  352  may be releaseably secured longitudinally and circumferentially about the longitudinal axis  350  of the drainage manifold  302 . The second end  360  of each of the elongate members  352  may be coupled to the internal surface  136  of the transitional connector  104  at the first end  130  of the transitional connector  104  such that the drainage tube  106  is in fluid communication with at least the outer wall  362  of each of the elongate members  352 . Although  FIGS.  3 A- 3 D  depict four of the elongate members  352 , the drainage manifold  302  may include any number of the elongate members  352  to suit a particular application. 
     As shown in  FIGS.  3 A- 3 D , each of the elongate members  352  may additionally include a longitudinal duct  364 , a reinforced portion  372 , a trimmable tip  374 , and a mating surface  376 . The longitudinal duct  364  may be positioned on the outer wall  362  and between the first end  358  and the second end  360  of the elongate member  352 . As shown in  FIGS.  3 A- 3 D , each of the elongate members  352  may include a plurality of longitudinal ducts  364  positioned as described above. The drainage tube  106  may be in fluid communication with at least the longitudinal duct  364  of each of the elongate members  352 . 
     Each of the elongate members  352  may carry the reinforced portion  372  between the first and the second end  358 ,  360  of the elongate member  352 . The reinforced portion  372  may be, for example, a formable titanium wire formed integrally into each of the elongate members  352 . Each of the elongate members  352  may carry the trimmable tip  374  at the first end  358  of the elongate member  352 . If equipped with the trimmable tip  374 , the elongate member  352  may carry the reinforced portion  372  between the trimmable tip  374  and the second end  360  of the elongate member  352 . Thus, the trimmable tip  374  may be trimmed or otherwise cut to a desired length without exposing or otherwise interfering with the reinforced portion  372  of the elongate member  352 . 
     Each of the elongate members  352  may carry the mating surface  376  adapted to engage the internal surface  136  of the transitional connector  104 . As shown in  FIGS.  3 A- 3 D , the mating surface  376  of each of the elongate members  352  may extend longitudinally between the first and the second end  358 ,  360  of the elongate member  352  and on the outer wall  362  of the elongate member  352 . Further, each of the elongate members  352  may include a plurality of the mating surfaces  376 . In some embodiments, each of the elongate members  352  may carry the mating surface  376  on a portion of the elongate member  352  at the second end  360  for engaging the internal surface  136  of the transitional connector  104 . The mating surface  376  of each of the elongate members  352  may cooperate with one another to provide an outer boundary  380  for the drainage manifold  302  that is compatible with the internal surface  136  of the transitional connector  104 . For example, as shown in  FIGS.  3 C- 3 D , the outer boundary  380  of the drainage manifold  302  may be circular in shape and may have an outer dimension sized to interferingly engage a complementary circular shape and inner dimension of the internal surface  136  of the transitional connector  104 . 
     The elongate support  354  may have a length and an external surface  382 . The drainage manifold  302  may carry the elongate support  354  on the longitudinal axis  350  of the drainage manifold  302 . When the first end  358  of the elongate member  352  is in the gathered position described above, the elongate member  352  may be releaseably secured longitudinally and circumferentially about the external surface  382  of the elongate support  354 . The drainage tube  106  may be in fluid communication with at least the external surface  382  of the elongate support  354 . 
     As shown in  FIGS.  3 A- 3 D , the elongate support  354  may additionally include an inner lumen  386 , an opening  388 , and a chamfer  389 . The elongate support  354  may carry the inner lumen  386 , for example, internally along the length of the elongate support  354 . The drainage tube  106  may be in fluid communication with at least the inner lumen  386  in the elongate support  354 . The elongate support  354  may have the opening  388  disposed through the external surface  382  of the elongate support  354  to provide fluid communication between the inner lumen  386  of the elongate support  354  and the external surface  382  of the elongate support  354 . As shown in  FIG.  3 B , the elongate support  354  may have a plurality of the openings  388  positioned along the length of the elongate support  354 . Further, the elongate support  354  may have the chamfer  389  positioned on the abutting surface between the opening  388  and the external surface  382  of the elongate support  354 . 
     In some embodiments (not shown) the elongate support  354  may have similar elements as the elongate member  352 . For example, the elongate support  354  may include the previously described longitudinal duct  364 , the reinforced portion  372 , and the trimmable tip  374 . The elongate support  354  may carry the longitudinal duct  364  along the length and on the external surface  382  of the elongate support  354 . Further, the elongate support  354  may carry the trimmable tip  374  on an end of the elongate support  354  with the reinforced portion  372  positioned between the trimmable tip  374  and an opposing end of the elongate support  354 . 
     The drainage manifold  302  may carry at least one of the sacrificial webs  356  between the elongate member  352  and the elongate support  354  to releaseably secure the elongate member  352  about the elongate support  354  when the first end  358  of the elongate member  352  is in the gathered position. The sacrificial web  356  may be severable upon application of a force, such as a pulling force, directed to pull or otherwise separate the elongate member  352  away from the elongate support  354 . For example, the force may be applied on the elongate member  352  and directed transverse to the longitudinal axis  350  of the drainage manifold  302 . The thickness of the sacrificial web  356  may be sized such that the sacrificial web  356  may sever upon application of a threshold amount of the force, permitting the elongate member  352  to separate from the elongate support  354 . In some embodiments, the threshold amount of the force may be less than an amount of force capable of severing another component of the drainage manifold  302 . Thus, the application of the threshold force to the elongate member  352  may prevent damage to other components of the drainage manifold  302 . In some embodiments, each of the sacrificial webs  356  may, for example, have a score or a perforation (not shown) along the length of the sacrificial web  356  that may be adapted to enhance the separation of the elongate member  352  from the elongate support  354 . For example, the score or perforation may define a predictable or desired path, such as a substantially straight line, for separation of the elongate member  352  from the elongate support  354 . The threshold force required to sever the sacrificial web  356  along the score or perforation to separate the elongate member  352  from the elongate support  354  may be less than the force required to sever the sacrificial web  356  at another location. The plurality of the sacrificial webs  356  may permit a physician, for example, to configure the drainage manifold  302  to treat a larger surface area of tissue, without a cutting instrument or other instrument, by pulling the elongate members  352  away from the elongate support  354  by hand. 
     Referring now to the embodiments of  FIGS.  4 A- 4 D , a drainage manifold  402  may have a longitudinal axis  450  and may include a plurality of elongate members  452  and a plurality of sacrificial webs  456 . Each of the elongate members  452  may have a first end  458 , a second end  460 , and an outer wall  462 . The first end  458  of each of the elongate members  452  may be moveable between a gathered position and a dispersed position relative to the longitudinal axis  450  of the drainage manifold  402 . When the first end  458  of each of the elongate members  452  is in the gathered position, the elongate members  452  may be releaseably secured longitudinally and circumferentially about the longitudinal axis  450  of the drainage manifold  402 . The second end  460  of each of the elongate members  452  may be coupled to the internal surface  136  of the transitional connector  104  at the first end  130  of the transitional connector  104  such that the drainage tube  106  may be in fluid communication with at least the outer wall  462  of each of the elongate members  452 . Although  FIGS.  4 A- 4 D  depict three of the elongate members  452 , the drainage manifold  402  may include any number of the elongate members  452  to suit a particular application. 
     As shown in  FIGS.  4 A- 4 D , each of the elongate members  452  may have an oblong cross-sectional shape and may additionally include a longitudinal duct  464 , an inner lumen  466 , an opening  468 , a chamfer  470 , a reinforced portion  472 , a trimmable tip  474 , and a mating surface  476 . The longitudinal duct  464  may be positioned on the outer wall  462  and between the first end  458  and the second end  460  of the elongate member  452 . In some embodiments, each of the elongate members  452  may include a plurality of the longitudinal ducts  464  positioned as described above. The drainage tube  106  may be in fluid communication with at least the longitudinal duct  464  of each of the elongate members  452 . 
     Each of the elongate members  452  may carry the inner lumen  466 , for example, internally along the length of the elongate member  452  and between the first and the second end  458 ,  460  of the elongate member  452 . The drainage tube  106  may be in fluid communication with at least the inner lumen  466  in each of the elongate members  452 . Each of the elongate members  452  may have the opening  468  disposed through the outer wall  462  of the elongate member  452  to provide fluid communication between the inner lumen  466  of the elongate member  452  and the outer wall  462  of the elongate member  452 . The oblong cross-sectional shape of each of the elongate members  452  may enhance the ability of the elongate member  452  to resist collapsing of the inner lumen  466  when positioned at the tissue site  108 . 
     As shown in  FIGS.  4 A- 4 D , each of the elongate members  452  may have a plurality of the openings  468  disposed through the outer wall  462  of the elongate member  452 . The plurality of the openings  468  may be positioned sequentially between the first and the second end  458 ,  460  of each of the elongate members  452 . Each of the elongate members  452  may have the chamfer  470  positioned on the abutting surface between the opening  468  and the outer wall  462  of the elongate member  452 . 
     Each of the elongate members  452  may carry the reinforced portion  472  between the first and the second end  458 ,  460  of the elongate member  452 . The reinforced portion  472  may be, for example, a formable titanium wire formed integrally into each of the elongate members  452 . Each of the elongate members  452  may carry the trimmable tip  474  at the first end  458  of the elongate member  452 . If equipped with the trimmable tip  474 , the elongate member  452  may carry the reinforced portion  472  between the trimmable tip  474  and the second end  460  of the elongate member  452 . Thus, the trimmable tip  474  may be trimmed or otherwise cut to a desired length without exposing or otherwise interfering with the reinforced portion  472  of the elongate member  452 . 
     Each of the elongate members  452  may carry the mating surface  476  that may be adapted to engage the internal surface  136  of the transitional connector  104 . As shown in  FIGS.  4 A- 4 D , the mating surface  476  of each of the elongate members  452  may extend longitudinally between the first and the second end  458 ,  460  of the elongate member  452  and on the outer wall  462  of the elongate member  452 . Further, each of the elongate members  452  may include a plurality of the mating surfaces  476 . In some embodiments, each of the elongate members  452  may carry the mating surface  476  on a portion of the elongate member  452  at the second end  460  for engaging the internal surface  136  of the transitional connector  104 . The mating surface  476  of each of the elongate members  452  may cooperate with one another to provide an outer boundary  480  for the drainage manifold  402  that is compatible with the internal surface  136  of the transitional connector  104 . For example, as shown in  FIGS.  4 C- 4 D , the outer boundary  480  of the drainage manifold  402  may be circular in shape and may have an outer dimension sized to interferingly engage a complementary circular shape and inner dimension of the internal surface  136  of the transitional connector  104 . 
     The drainage manifold  402  may carry the sacrificial webs  456  circumferentially about the longitudinal axis  450  of the drainage manifold  402  and between the elongate members  452  to releaseably secure the elongate members  452  to one another when the first end  458  of each of the elongate members  452  is in the gathered position. For example, as shown in  FIGS.  4 A- 4 D , each of the elongate members  452  may have an oblong cross-sectional shape having a width dimension greater than a height dimension. Each of the elongate members  452  may have a pair of opposing sides  492  separated by the width of the elongate member  452 . When the first end  458  of each of the elongate members  452  is in the gathered position, each of the sides  492  of one of the elongate members  452  may be adjacent one of the sides  492  of another elongate member  452 . The drainage manifold  402  may carry at least one of the sacrificial webs  456  between the adjacent sides  492  of the elongate members  452 . 
     Each of the sacrificial webs  456  may be severable upon application of a force, such as a pulling force, directed to pull or otherwise separate one of the elongate members  452  away from another of the elongate members  452 . For example, the force may be applied on one of the elongate members  452  and directed transverse to the longitudinal axis  450  of the drainage manifold  402 . The thickness of the sacrificial web  456  may be sized such that the sacrificial web  456  may sever upon application of a threshold amount of the force, permitting the elongate member  452  to separate from the other elongate members  452 . In some embodiments, the threshold amount of the force may be less than an amount of force required to sever other components of the drainage manifold  402 . Thus, the application of the threshold force to the elongate member  452  may prevent damage to other components of the drainage manifold  402 . In some embodiments, each of the sacrificial webs  456  may, for example, have a score or a perforation (not shown) along the length of the sacrificial web  456  that may be adapted to enhance the separation of the elongate members  452  from one another. For example, the score or perforation may define a predictable or desired path, such as a substantially straight line, for the separation of the elongate members  452  from one another. The threshold force required to sever the sacrificial web  456  along the score or perforation to separate the elongate members  452  from one another may be less than the force required to sever the sacrificial web  456  at another location. The plurality of the sacrificial webs  456  may permit a physician, for example, to configure the drainage manifold  402  to treat a larger surface area, without a cutting instrument or other instrument, by pulling the elongate members  452  away from one another and away from the longitudinal axis  450  of the drainage manifold  402 . 
     As shown in  FIGS.  4 A- 4 D , the outer wall  462  of each of the elongate members  452  may cooperate with one another and with each of the sacrificial webs  456  to define a central lumen  494  in the drainage manifold  402  when the first end  458  of each of the elongate members  452  is in the gathered position. The drainage tube  106  may be in fluid communication with at least the central lumen  494  in the drainage manifold  402 . Further, as shown, at least one of the sacrificial webs  456  may coincide with at least one of the longitudinal ducts  464 . 
     Referring now to the embodiments of  FIGS.  5 A- 5 B , the drainage manifold  502  may have a longitudinal axis  550  and may include a plurality of elongate members  552  and an elongate support  554 . The elongate support  554  may have a length and an external surface  582  positioned on the longitudinal axis  550  of the drainage manifold  502 . Each of the elongate members  552  may have a first end  558 , a second end  560 , and an outer wall  562 . The first end  558  of each of the elongate members  552  may be moveable relative to the elongate support  554 . The second end  560  of each of the elongate members  552  may be secured about the external surface  582  of the elongate support  554 . The elongate support  554  may be coupled to the internal surface  136  of the transitional connector  104  at the first end  130  of the transitional connector  104  such that the drainage tube  106  may be in fluid communication with at least the outer wall  562  of each of the elongate members  552  and the external surface  582  of the elongate support  554 . 
     The drainage manifold  502  may include any number of the elongate members  552  to suit a particular application. Further, the elongate members  552  may form an angle (not shown) relative to the elongate support  554 , such as, for example, an angle of about 45 degrees measured between the elongate member  552  and the elongate support  554 . The angle may reduce the trauma experienced by the patient upon withdrawal of the drainage manifold  502 . 
     As shown in  FIGS.  5 A- 5 B , each of the elongate members  552  may additionally include a longitudinal duct  564 , an inner lumen  566 , an opening  568 , a chamfer  570 , a reinforced portion  572 , and a trimmable tip  574 . The longitudinal duct  564  may be positioned on the outer wall  562  and between the first end  558  and the second end  560  of the elongate member  552 . As shown in  FIGS.  5 A- 5 B , each of the elongate members  552  may include a plurality of the longitudinal ducts  564  positioned as described above. The drainage tube  106  may be in fluid communication with at least the longitudinal duct  564  of each of the elongate members  552 . 
     Each of the elongate members  552  may carry the inner lumen  566 , for example, internally along the length of the elongate member  552  and between the first and the second end  558 ,  560  of the elongate member  552 . The drainage tube  106  may be in fluid communication with at least the inner lumen  566  in each of the elongate members  552 . Each of the elongate members  552  may have the opening  568  disposed through the outer wall  562  of the elongate member  552  to provide fluid communication between the inner lumen  566  of the elongate member  552  and the outer wall  562  of the elongate member  552 . In some embodiments, each of the elongate members  552  may have a plurality of the openings  568  disposed through the outer wall  562  of the elongate member  552 . Each of the elongate members  552  may have the chamfer  570  positioned on the abutting surface between the opening  568  and the outer wall  562  of the elongate member  552 . 
     Each of the elongate members  552  may carry the reinforced portion  572  between the first and the second end  558 ,  560  of the elongate member  552 . The reinforced portion  572  may be, for example, a formable titanium wire formed integrally into each of the elongate members  552 . Each of the elongate members  552  may carry the trimmable tip  574  at the first end  558  of the elongate member  552 . If equipped with the trimmable tip  574 , the elongate member  552  may carry the reinforced portion  572  between the trimmable tip  574  and the second end  560  of the elongate member  552 . Thus, the trimmable tip  574  may be trimmed or otherwise cut to a desired length without exposing or otherwise interfering with the reinforced portion  572  of the elongate member  552 . 
     As shown in  FIGS.  5 A- 5 B , the elongate support  554  may additionally include a plurality of longitudinal protrusions  584 , an inner lumen  586 , an opening  588 , and a chamfer  589 . The elongate support  554  may carry the plurality of longitudinal protrusions  584  on the external surface  582  and along the length of the elongate support  554 . The longitudinal protrusions  584  and the external surface  582  cooperate to define at least one longitudinal groove  590 . The drainage tube  106  may be in fluid communication with at least the longitudinal groove  590 . 
     The elongate support  554  may carry the inner lumen  586 , for example, internally along the length of the elongate support  554 . The drainage tube  106  may be in fluid communication with at least the inner lumen  586  in the elongate support  554  and the outer wall  562  of each of the elongate members  552 . The elongate support  554  may have the opening  588  disposed through the external surface  582  of the elongate support  554  to provide fluid communication between the inner lumen  586  of the elongate support  554  and the external surface  582  of the elongate support  554 . As shown in  FIGS.  5 A- 5 B , the elongate support  554  may have a plurality of the openings  588  positioned along the length of the elongate support  554 . Further, the elongate support  554  may have the chamfer  589  positioned on the abutting surface between the opening  588  and the external surface  582  of the elongate support  554 . 
     Referring generally to the drawings, in some embodiments, insertion of the drainage tube  106  through the incision  120  occurs with the drainage tube  106  beginning at the tissue site  108  and proceeding through the subcutaneous tissue  126 , the dermis  124 , and subsequently protruding through the epidermis  122 . The drainage tube  106  may be draped with an external sealing member (not shown) in any suitable manner to enhance the seal of the drainage tube about the epidermis  122 , external to the incision  120 . The sealing member may be, for example, an adhesive polyurethane sheet or any material capable of providing a fluid seal suitable to maintain reduced pressure at the tissue site  108 . As shown in  FIG.  1   , the transitional connector  104  may reside between the incision  120  and the tissue site  108 , thereby permitting the incision  120  to seal about the drainage tube  106  at the epidermis  122  without requiring the external sealing member described above. In some embodiments, the transitional connector  104  may reside exterior to the incision  120  and the epidermis  122 . 
     Through the single incision  120 , the drainage manifold  102 ,  202 ,  302 ,  402 ,  502  may be configured to treat a large surface area at the tissue site  108  by hand and without the need for an instrument or tool. Specifically, the elongate members  252 ,  352 ,  452  may be separated as described above and positioned, for example, in the cavities  116  and between the tissue layers  118  in and around the tissue site  108 . Similarly, the elongate members  552  may be moved about the elongate support  554  and positioned in and around the tissue site  108  in a similar manner as described above. 
     The reinforced portion  272 ,  372 ,  472 ,  572  may enhance the ability of the elongate members  252 ,  352 ,  452 ,  552  to retain a desired shape when positioned at the tissue site  108 . Forming the reinforced portion  272 ,  372 ,  472 ,  572  into a desired shape may enhance the ability of a physician, for example, to configure the drainage manifold  102 ,  202 ,  302 ,  402 ,  502  to remain in fluid communication with the cavities  116  and the tissue layers  118  that may be present at the tissue site  108 . For example, the tissue site  108  may have a unique size and shape requiring the drainage manifold  102 ,  202 ,  302 ,  402 ,  502  to be configured and positioned in a particular manner to reduce the possibility for fluids to become trapped at the tissue site  108 . Fluids may become trapped at the tissue site  108 , for example, in the cavities  116  and between the tissue layers  118  if the drainage manifold  102 ,  202 ,  302 ,  402 ,  502  does not remain in fluid communication with the cavities  116  and the tissue layers  118 . Fluids trapped at the tissue site  108  may increase the chance for seroma or hematoma to occur. To enhance the ability of the elongate members  252 ,  352 ,  452 ,  552  to retain a desired shape and position at the tissue site  108 , the physician may optionally utilize, for example, a biodegradable suture material and/or two-dimensional mesh material to secure the elongate members  252 ,  352 ,  452 ,  552  in and around the tissue site  108 . 
     The trimmable tip  274 ,  374 ,  474 ,  574  may provide a portion of each of the respective elongate members  252 ,  352 ,  452 ,  552  suitable for trimming to a desired size to fit in and around the tissue site  108 . Trimming the trimmable tip  274 ,  374 ,  474 ,  574  may not interfere with the reinforced portion  272 ,  372 ,  472 ,  572  or the operation of the drainage manifold  102 ,  202 ,  302 ,  402 ,  502 . 
     As described above, the reduced-pressure source  110  may be in fluid communication with the drainage manifold  102 ,  202 ,  302 ,  402 ,  502 . The drainage manifold  102 ,  202 ,  302 ,  402 ,  502  may be positioned at the tissue site  108  as described above and may be adapted to distribute reduced pressure from the reduced-pressure source  110  to the tissue site  108 . Providing reduced pressure from the reduced-pressure source  110  to the drainage manifold  102 ,  202 ,  302 ,  402 ,  502  and the tissue site  108  may extract fluid from the tissue site  108 . Further, distributing the reduced pressure to the tissue site  108  may exert force on the tissue site  108  that, for example, may draw the cavities  116  and the tissue layers  118  together and around the components of the drainage manifold  102 ,  202 ,  302 ,  402 ,  502 . When reduced pressure is applied, the drainage tube  106  may remain in fluid communication with the components of the drainage manifold  102 ,  202 ,  302 ,  402 ,  502  as previously described. The components of the drainage manifold  102 ,  202 ,  302 ,  402 ,  502  may provide a separation or a fluid passageway between the drainage manifold  102 ,  202 ,  302 ,  402 ,  502  and, for example, the tissue layers  118 . Thus, the previously described components of the drainage manifold  102 ,  202 ,  302 ,  402 ,  502  positioned at the tissue site  108  may cooperate with the tissue site  108  to form a network of fluid passageways with the tissue site  108  when the reduced pressure is applied. Fluid extracted from the tissue site  108  may travel in and along the fluid passageways and the previously described components of the drainage manifold  102 ,  202 ,  302 ,  402 ,  502  to the transitional connector  104  and through the drainage tube  106 . The fluid may exit the drainage tube  106  into the fluid canister  112  for storage and disposal. 
     At the conclusion of treatment, the drainage manifold  102 ,  202 ,  302 ,  402 ,  502  may be withdrawn from the tissue site  108  by applying traction or otherwise pulling on the drainage tube  106 , thereby withdrawing the transitional connector  104  and the drainage manifold  102 ,  202 ,  302 ,  402 ,  502  through the incision  120 . Upon withdrawal, the drainage manifold  202 ,  302 ,  402  may retain a shape substantially similar to the shape of the drainage manifold  202 ,  302 ,  402  prior to placement at the tissue site  108 . For example, the previously described components of the drainage manifold  202 ,  302 ,  402  may, upon withdrawal, retain the previously described configuration about the respective longitudinal axis  250 ,  350 ,  450  of the drainage manifold  202 ,  302 ,  402 . In this manner, the drainage manifold  202 ,  302 ,  402  may reduce pain experienced by the patient during withdrawal. 
     Although this specification discloses the drainage system  100  in the context of certain illustrative, non-limiting embodiments, various changes, substitutions, permutations, and alterations may be made without departing from the scope of the specification as defined by the appended claims. Further, any feature described in connection with any one embodiment may also be applicable to any other embodiment.