Patent Description:
Typically, a medical bandage or dressing is a covering or wrap that protectively conceals a wounded area of the body in order to stem the flow of body fluids from the wound, absorb body fluids from the wound, ease pain, debride the wound, protect the wound from infection, promote healing of the wound, and/or reduce psychological stress. Medical bandages are used for many different healthcare situations such as for emergency, post-surgical, or chronic care of a wound. Normally, bandages or dressings are in direct contact with the wound, and are covered with an adhesive film to hold them in place. Dressings can be marketed in various configurations; in a first example, dressings are sold alone in rolls, sheets or pads, to be directly applied on or around a body portion, in another example, a dressing and a corresponding adhesive band are sold as an integral product. Generally, dressings are sold in a flat configuration, to cover a substantially flat surface of the body. In the event that a curved surface is to be covered, the dressing is deformed to adopt the shape of the surface. Similarly, in the event that a full perimetric surface must be covered, such as a wrist or knee, the dressing is deformed to wrap around the perimetric surface.

It is well known that traumatic amputations are generally gruesome, devastating injuries that may result in death. Similarly, head injuries often result in trauma to the scalp, skull, or brain. These injuries frequently result in extreme blood loss which can contribute greatly to the associated fatality rate. The time required to control the bleeding of an amputation is vital in reducing blood loss. Often, quickly covering the wounds on the amputated limb or head helps to stop further blood loss during emergency care, and maintaining a suitable bandage can help protect the wound, promote wound healing and prevent infection. However, the dressing and bandage materials known in the art are often cumbersome to handle and difficult to appropriately deform and apply, particularly on an immobilized victim. Due to different settings, injuries, and access to care, medical professionals must use a multitude of sizes, shapes, styles of bandages for covering and treating wounds of the head or limb. In consequence, it is not rare that medical professionals are required to heavily manipulate dressings in order to fit them onto the head or onto a stump, leading to a great loss of time and to an increased risk of the dressings being contaminated or placed ineffectively from such manipulation. A person skilled in the art will clearly understand that the more ready, intuitive, and universally applied the medical devices and instruments are, the more effective and successful the treatment can be for immediate medical and post-traumatic wound care. In addition, promoting wound healing of the head or a limb can be a lengthy process requiring days to months of dressing changes and wound care. Having to repeatedly and manually wind and unwind conventional dressings (not particularly indicated for the head or limb) over the head or limb is cumbersome and extremely labor consuming.

In an attempt to reduce the amount of time needed to obtain a covering that is specifically shaped for the patient's head, some head-specific bandage solutions have been developed. For instance, <CIT> describes a postoperative compression bandage for the head which is formed of two identical flat portions affixed to one another forming a flat body, wherein the body can be wrapped around the patient's head and be secured in place by hook-and-loop fasteners comprised on certain edges of the flat portions. <CIT> describes a head trauma cap bandage and method which, when applied, applies compression pressure to stop bleeding; the head trauma bandage is cap-shaped and secured to the patient's head by a strap that wraps around the patient's mandible. <CIT> teaches a compressive head dressing comprising an elastomeric layer and a cinch for adjusting to the patient's head. <CIT> discloses a medical bandage and, in particular, a cap-shaped medical dressing or bandage conveniently shaped to cover a wound on a patient's head, limb, or stump, for emergency, post-surgical, or chronic wound care, for instance in the event of a bleeding cranial wound or in the event or curing an amputated limb.

However, known solutions mainly focus on providing a head-shaped dressing and do not specifically address other problems such as being able to rapidly and efficiently provide treatment of head wounds.

Accordingly, there remains a need in the art to provide an adequate dressing cover for the head, a limb or a stump or an extremity of the human or animal body, which is optimized for such body part, facilitates treatment of wounds and is yet provided at reasonable cost.

The present invention overcomes the deficiencies of the known art and the problems that remain unsolved by providing a medical bandage specifically designed for the head, a limb, a stump, a finger or other body part, producing a dressing covering that can be rapidly, intuitively, and universally applied in the event of an emergency or trauma. Unlike conventional dressings, the medical bandage disclosed herein can open for rapid easy fitting without further traumatizing a head with patient supine. In addition, the medical bandage disclosed herein is useful for treating ongoing wound care needs, to stabilize and hold drains, view wounds, medicate, and allow for a rapid and universal dressing change which is designed for use for both the head and a limb, as well as other body parts.

The present invention refers to a medical bandage defined by the appended claims. The medical bandage presents a three-dimensional cap-like shape having a convex outer surface and a concave inner surface configured to conform to the head, limb, stump, finger or other body part. The medical bandage is formed by several layers of material, namely an internal layer made of a soft, skin compatible fabric, an external layer made of breathable material, and an intermediate absorbent layer or, alternatively or complementarily, an intermediate flexible bladder. Means of adjustment such as side hook-and-loop straps can be included in order to adjust the bandage to the head, limb, stump, finger or other body part and provide necessary compression to coagulate and maintain an intact dressing to cover the wound and promote healing. In some embodiments, the bandage can be partially or totally elastic to provide adjustment. In some embodiments, the medical bandage not only provides a ready-to-apply cover for a wound, but also includes active treating agents such as coagulant agents, antimicrobial agents, heating agents, cooling agents, or a combination thereof. The medical bandage in accordance with the invention may be used not only to cover wounds, but also for other purposes such as treating or preventing hair loss.

The medical bandage of the invention comprises a deformable main body having an inner surface and an outer surface. The main body is configured to adopt a position in which an inner cavity is delimited by the inner surface for at least partially receiving a head, limb, stump, finger or other body part. At least part of the main body comprises a skin-compatible first layer, a second layer and a non-permeable third layer. The first layer is arranged closer to the inner cavity than the third layer. In turn, the second layer is arranged between the first layer and the third layer and comprises at least one space through which the first and third layers directly face one another. The main body of the bandage further includes at least one through port arranged at the at least one space, for accessing the inner cavity of the main body from outside the main body and through the first, second and third layers, or for stabilizing or supporting a drain or tubing passing through the port.

The at least one through port can be provided by scored lines and can adopt a closed position in which the scored lines are not torn, and an open position in which the scored lines are torn open providing quick access to the inner cavity.

In another aspect, the second layer can include an absorbent material, and the first layer can be permeable to the passing of fluid from the inner surface towards the second layer.

In another aspect, the main body can further include at least one adjustment strap, configured to adjustably attach two different sections of the main body.

In another aspect, the adjustment strap can be fixedly attached to a first section of the main body and disconnectably attachable to a second section of the main body.

In another aspect, opposite ends of the adjustment strap can be disconnectably attachable to different sections of the main body. For instance and without limitation, the adjustment strap can be disconnectably attachable to the main body by a hook-and-loop connection.

In another aspect, the main body can define a rim delimiting an opening for inserting a head, limb, stump, finger or other body part therethrough towards the inner cavity of the main body. The at least one adjustment strap can be attachable along the rim and parallel to the rim.

In another aspect, the at least one adjustment strap can include two adjustment straps configured to wind with one another and attach to the main body by a respective hook-and-loop connection.

In another aspect, the at least one adjustment strap can include two adjustment straps configured to tie to one another into a knot for compression or securing the bandage.

In another aspect, at least one of the first, second and third layers can include an insulating material such as, but not limited to, biaxially-oriented polyethylene terephthalate (e.g., Mylar®).

In another aspect, the main body can be at least partially elastic to adjustably fit onto a head, limb, stump, finger or other body part.

In another aspect, the first, second and/or third layers can include a plurality of partial portions, which are arranged adjacently to each other forming a cap-shape.

In another aspect, at least two partial portions of the second layer can be separated by a gap, through which the first and third layers directly face one another.

In another aspect, the first layer and third layer can include at least one pair of perforated seams facing the gap.

In another aspect, the plurality of partial portions can include an elongated body portion and two opposite side portions attached to opposite sides of the elongated body portion. One or both of the opposite side portions can be pivotable relative to the elongated body portion and configured to adopt a closed position in which the side portions and elongated body portion form a cap-shaped body.

In another aspect, the main body can include a tearable portion which is configured to be torn off and removed from a remainder of the main body to reduce the height of the main body. The tearable portion, once torn off and removed from said remainder of the main body, is usable as a tourniquet.

The medical bandage of the invention further include at least one sensor for measuring a body condition. The sensor is carried by the main body and configured to establish wired or wireless communication with an external electronic device for transmitting a measurement to the electronic device. The at least one sensor comprises a light emitter configured to emit a color-coded light visible from outside the medical bandage and indicative of measurements by the at least one sensor.

In another aspect, the at least one sensor can be disconnectably attachable to the at least one through port.

These and other advantages of the invention will be further understood and appreciated by those skilled in the art by reference to the following written specification, claims and appended drawings.

The invention will now be described, by way of example, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:.

Like reference numerals refer to like parts throughout the various views of the drawings.

The following detailed description is merely exemplary in nature and is not intended to limit the described embodiments or the application and uses of the described embodiments. As used herein, the word "exemplary" or "illustrative" means "serving as an example, instance, or illustration. " Any implementation described herein as "exemplary" or "illustrative" is not necessarily to be construed as preferred or advantageous over other implementations. All of the implementations described below are exemplary implementations provided to enable persons skilled in the art to make or use the embodiments of the disclosure and are not intended to limit the scope of the disclosure, which is defined by the claims. For purposes of description herein, the terms "upper," "lower," "left," "rear," "right," "front," "vertical," "horizontal," and derivatives thereof shall relate to the invention as oriented in <FIG>. It is also to be understood that the specific devices and processes illustrated in the attached drawings, and described in the following specification, are simply exemplary embodiments of the inventive concepts defined in the appended claims.

In this document, relational terms such as "first" and "second", "top" and "bottom," and the like may be used solely to distinguish one entity or action from another entity or action without necessarily requiring or implying any actual such relationship or order between such entities or actions. The terms "comprises," "comprising," or any other variation thereof, are intended to cover a non-exclusive inclusion, such that a process, method, article, or apparatus that comprises a list of elements does not include only those elements but may include other elements not expressly listed or inherent to such process, method, article, or apparatus. An element proceeded by "comprises a. " does not, without more constraints, preclude the existence of additional identical elements in the process, method, article, or apparatus that comprises the element.

The illustration of <FIG> presents a first exemplary embodiment of a medical bandage <NUM> in accordance with the invention. The medical bandage <NUM> comprises a main body <NUM> that is in shape of a cap. The main body <NUM> presents a concave, inner surface <NUM> delimiting a head-, limb- or stump-receiving cavity <NUM>, and a convex, outer surface <NUM>, where the inner and outer surfaces <NUM>, <NUM> converge in a perimetric rim <NUM>. The main body <NUM> further presents a front side <NUM>, a rear side <NUM>, a right side <NUM> and a left side <NUM>.

Several layers and materials form the main body <NUM>, namely a skin-compatible first layer <NUM>, an absorbent second layer <NUM>, and a breathable, non-permeable third layer <NUM>, as shown in the general perspective view of <FIG> and in the enlarged, exploded view of <FIG>. The first layer <NUM> and second layer <NUM> can be manufactured, for instance, from cloth, gauze, cotton, polyurethane, or a combination thereof. The third layer <NUM> can be manufactured, for instance, as a polyethylene film. For better understanding of the layered arrangement, an illustrative and imaginary cut-out (indicated with letter A) has been carried out in the third layer <NUM> of <FIG>, unveiling the inner first and second layers <NUM>, <NUM>. As shown, the first layer <NUM> is arranged closer to the inner surface <NUM>; in the present embodiment, in particular, the first layer <NUM> is in fact the innermost layer, and thus the innermost surface of the first layer <NUM> provides the main body inner surface <NUM>. In turn, the third layer <NUM> is arranged closer to the outer surface <NUM>; in the present embodiment, in particular, the third layer <NUM> is in fact the outermost layer, and the outermost surface of the third layer <NUM> provides the main body outer surface <NUM>. The second layer <NUM> is arranged between the first layer <NUM> and the third layer <NUM>; the second layer <NUM> of the present embodiment is, in fact, arranged immediately between the first layer <NUM> and the third layer <NUM>. Thus, the main body in accordance with the invention can comprise three or more layers, the main body <NUM> of the present embodiment specifically consisting of three layers <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>. In addition, the first layer <NUM> is permeable to the passing of fluid from the inner surface <NUM> towards the absorbent second layer <NUM>, while the non-permeable third layer <NUM> keeps liquids and optionally gasses within the absorbent second layer <NUM>. All layers <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> can have a variable thickness. The first and second layers <NUM>, <NUM> can have a variable permeability and absorbency. The second layer <NUM>, in particular, can be manufactured having different thicknesses in order to provide a variable degree absorbency and cushioned feel and wound-healing properties.

As shown in <FIG>, the medical bandage <NUM> can further include one or more adjustment straps <NUM>, each configured to adjustably attach to two different sections or zones of the main body <NUM>, and provide compression if needed. The one or more straps can be arranged in a variety of directions. In the present embodiment, for instance, the medical bandage <NUM> includes two straps <NUM>, wherein each strap <NUM> is arranged from the main body rear side <NUM> to the main body front side <NUM>, extending along the right side <NUM> and left side <NUM>, respectively. Being able to adjust the level of tightness with which the two straps <NUM> are attached allows adjusting the size of the cap-shaped main body <NUM> to different head, limb or stump sizes, and applying needed pressure or coverage to help stop bleeding, keep the bandage secure, and protect the wound, thereby promoting wound healing and assisting in post trauma/surgical care.

In the present embodiment, a first end <NUM> of the adjustment straps <NUM> is fixedly or non-disconnectably attached to the main body rear side <NUM> and an opposite second end <NUM> is disconnectably attachable to the main body front side <NUM>. Thus, the straps <NUM> are permanently attached to the main body <NUM>, preventing the straps <NUM> from being inadvertently lost when their second end <NUM> is detached from the main body <NUM>, and yet are easily and rapidly detachable to readjust the fitting of the cap on a head or limb.

In the present embodiment, the straps <NUM> are disconnectably attachable to the main body <NUM> by a hook-and-loop connection formed by a first hook-and-loop element <NUM> forming part of the strap <NUM> and a compatible second hook-and-loop element <NUM> included in the main body <NUM> and configured to attach to the first hook-and-loop element <NUM>. A hook-and-loop connection is advantageous in that it is easy and rapidly connected and disconnected, provides a secure and resistant attachment, and is a cost-effective solution. In addition, it can be easily and rapidly tightened in the event that a greater pressure (or even a tourniquet effect) is required on the wound; similarly, the hook-and-loop connection can be easily and rapidly loosened in the event that an excessive pressure is being applied that is causing discomfort in the patient.

Furthermore, the straps <NUM> of the present embodiment are arranged to extend along the right side <NUM> and left side <NUM>, respectively, generally along the rim <NUM> and parallel to the rim <NUM>. Thus, when the straps <NUM> are relatively tightly fastened to provide a snug fitting of the cap onto the patient's head or limb, the straps <NUM> provide a uniform pressure along a substantial length of the rim <NUM>. In consequence, the adjusted bandage <NUM> is very safely secured and yet does not cause discomfort to the patient.

Alternative embodiments of the invention can comprise a different number of straps. In addition, in different embodiments of the invention, one or more straps can have both opposite ends disconnectably attachable to different sections of the main body, instead of having one end permanently affixed to the main body. In further embodiments, the main body can be at least partially elastic to adjustably fit onto a head, a limb or a stump. For instance, the first and/or third layers <NUM>, <NUM> could be provided with an elastic band along the cap-shaped main body rim <NUM> so that the area of the rim <NUM> tightly (but comfortably) adjusts to the head, limb or stump while the rest of the main body <NUM> is more loosely fitted. In another example, the entire first layer <NUM> and/or third layer <NUM> can be elastic, to provide a compressive effect on the head, limb or stump that can be convenient for stopping wound bleeding or other applicable medical needs. In general, it is contemplated that the bandage <NUM> can be configured to snugly fit onto the head, limb or stump, in order for the first layer <NUM> to contact the wound, or to be more loosely arranged so that the first layer <NUM> does not contact the wound.

The bandage in accordance with the invention includes at least one port providing selective access to the cavity from outside the bandage. A nurse or other medical professional can thus easily insert a needle, tube or other medical device through the port, without having to reposition or remove the bandage from the patient's head or limb. A tube can be supported by a port, or repositioned from one port to another, without requiring the use of tape. For example, the present embodiment provides two elongated through ports <NUM> and two punctual or discrete through ports <NUM>. The discrete through ports <NUM> allow for a rapid and adjusted insertion of the syringe or tube at specific, predetermined spots. The elongated through ports <NUM>, instead, allow the medical professional to select where along the elongated port <NUM> to insert the syringe or tube, permitting a more versatile and personalized treatment.

The elongated through ports <NUM> of the present embodiment are constructed by having the first and third layers <NUM>, <NUM> include two respective scored or perforated elongated seams <NUM>, <NUM> arranged aligned or in registration and that can be quickly and rapidly torn or opened in order to apply a medicine onto, disinfect or treat a wound, or visually inspect the wound; the second layer <NUM> can comprise a similar scored or perforated seam in registration with the elongated seams <NUM>, <NUM> of the first and third layers <NUM>, <NUM> or, alternatively, as shown in <FIG>, the second layer <NUM> can include two respective elongated channels or spaces <NUM> through which the first and third layers <NUM>, <NUM>, and more particularly elongated seams <NUM>, <NUM>, face each other directly.

In turn, the discrete through ports <NUM> are formed by two respective aligned perforated openings <NUM>, <NUM> located at the end of the perforated seams <NUM>, <NUM> of the first and third layers <NUM>, <NUM> and in registration with the corresponding space <NUM> of the second layer <NUM>. One or both openings <NUM>, <NUM> can be scored or perforated X-cut openings, as shown, or present any other applicable shape such as an O-shape. In addition, alternative embodiments are contemplated such as having aligned openings on all three layers <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>. It is also contemplated that an opening on the outer, third layer <NUM> can be initially closed or sealed and only accessible therethrough when ripped or perforated, while an opening on the first and/or second layer <NUM>, <NUM> can be initially open and readily accessible once the opening on the third layer <NUM> is ripped or perforated.

Preferably, any one of the first layer <NUM>, the second layer <NUM> and the third layer <NUM> can be formed of a plurality of partial portions, arranged adjacent to one another in order for the layer to adopt a three-dimensional cap shape. For instance, as best shown in <FIG>, the second layer <NUM> of the present embodiment is formed by one longitudinal partial portion <NUM>, which is configured to extend form a frontal area to an occipital area, and two separate opposite side partial portions <NUM>. Such a construction is cost effective as it utilizes a minimum amount of flat-shaped partial portions (as best shown in <FIG>) to build a three-dimensional cap-shaped second layer <NUM>. The longitudinal partial portion <NUM> is rectangular, and the opposite side partial portions <NUM> are semicircular, all of which being simple shapes that may be manufactured at reasonable cost.

As can be observed in <FIG>, the present embodiment is such that the elongated spaces <NUM> of the second layer <NUM> are carried out as respective gaps that have been left between adjacent partial portions <NUM>, <NUM>. Thus, perforation of the second layer partial portions <NUM>, <NUM> manufacturing the product is avoided, and the cost of manufacture is kept reasonable. The three partial portions <NUM>, <NUM> of the second layer <NUM> are kept in place by the first and third layers <NUM>, <NUM>. Optionally, an adhesive, stitching, scoring or the like can be applied to further maintain the relative position of the three layers <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>. Any seams can be constructed so that they can be relatively easily torn, allowing for easy dressing changes.

The absorbent, second layer <NUM> can further include at least one coagulant agent, such as clay-based coagulants (kaolin, chitosan, talc), synthetic coagulants (e.g., polymers), animal-based coagulants (e.g., gelatins), plant-based coagulants (e.g., cellulose) or a combination thereof, preferably embedded in the absorbent layer material or applied on the absorbent layer material. In such an event, the first layer <NUM> is configured to be permeable for the outward passing of the coagulant agent towards the main body inner surface <NUM> and the cavity <NUM>. In alternative embodiments, at least one coagulant agent can be included in the first layer <NUM>, in closer proximity to the wound.

Alternatively or additionally, the absorbent second layer <NUM> can include at least one antimicrobial agent, such as zincs or silvers, in order to prevent bacterial, fungal or parasite infection of the wound. The antimicrobial agent is preferably embedded in the absorbent layer material or applied on the absorbent layer material. The first layer <NUM> can then be permeable for the outward passing of the antimicrobial agent towards the main body inner surface <NUM> and the cavity <NUM>. In alternative embodiments, at least one antimicrobial agent can be included in the first layer <NUM>, in closer proximity to the wound.

The absorbent second layer <NUM> can include at least one heating (exothermic) agent and/or at least one cooling (endothermic) agent, such as a metal oxide, ureas, citric acid, bicarbonates or a combination thereof, in order to prevent heat loss from the head, limb or stump. The heating agent and/or cooling agent is preferably embedded in the absorbent layer material or applied on the absorbent layer material. The first layer <NUM> can be permeable for the passing of the at least one heating agent and/or cooling agent through the first layer <NUM> and towards the main body concave, inner surface <NUM> and the cavity <NUM>. In alternative embodiments, at least one heating agent and/or cooling agent can be included in the first layer <NUM>, in closer proximity to the wound.

Alternatively or additionally, the bandage <NUM> can include an insulating material such as, but not limited to, biaxially-oriented polyethylene terephthalate (e.g., Mylar®). Alternatively or additionally, the bandage <NUM> can include adhesive and/or petroleum.

In some embodiments, the medical bandage is packaged clean and sterile and intended for single use only, whereas in other embodiments the medical bandage is a multi-use, washable bandage which can be subjected to cleaning and sterilization.

In summary, the invention provides a cap-shaped bandage capable of being fitted on a head, a limb or a stump, and even onto a toe, a finger, a sexual organ or other appendage of the human or animal body, comprising an inner skin-compatible layer capable of allowing body fluids from the wound to pass through, an intermediate absorbent layer capable of absorbing the body fluids, and an external breathable non-permeable layer for concealing the absorbent layer, retaining fluids within the absorbent layer and providing a clean finish to the bandage. In addition, the cap-shaped bandage includes at least one port for accessing the bandage inner cavity from the outside. The medical bandage <NUM> may be efficacious for a variety of therapeutic functions, including, without limitation, stemming the flow of body fluids, absorbing body fluids, easing pain, debriding the wound, protecting from infection, promoting healing, and reducing psychological stress.

For instance, the illustration of <FIG> shows the bandage <NUM> applied on a patient's head, wherein the straps <NUM> have been tensioned and fastened to provide a lateral adjustment of the main body <NUM> against the periphery of the head, over the ears. As shown, the straps <NUM> extend along either side of the head in a generally symmetrical fashion, along and parallel to the rim <NUM>, providing a snug adjustment of the cap. Since the straps <NUM> achieve a uniform pressure along a respective substantial length L, the straps <NUM> create no pressure points and cause no added discomfort to the patient. In addition, a syringe <NUM> has been inserted through one of the discrete through ports <NUM> by passing the syringe tip <NUM> through the opening <NUM> of the third layer <NUM>, the corresponding elongated space <NUM> of the second layer <NUM> and the corresponding opening <NUM> of the first layer <NUM>. Operation of the syringe <NUM> causes a medicine contained in the syringe <NUM> to be delivered directly into the cavity <NUM> and onto a wound without having to move the bandage <NUM> to a different position on the patient's head or without having to partially or completely remove the bandage <NUM> from the patient's head.

The illustration of <FIG> shows the bandage <NUM> placed covering a stump, where placement is again carried out by correctly positioning the cap-shaped main body <NUM>, and tightening and attaching the straps <NUM> along and parallel to the rim <NUM>. The medical professional has further inserted a drainage tube <NUM> through one of the elongated through ports <NUM>, which has been previously formed or opened by tearing a length of the perforated seams <NUM>, <NUM> of the first and third layers <NUM>, <NUM> in order to open a passageway through the opened seams <NUM>, <NUM> and the elongated space <NUM>. Direct access to a wound in order to remove body fluids from the wound is therefore achieved without having to re-position or remove the bandage <NUM>, thus preventing further discomfort to the patient.

Therefore, a single device is provided that can be intuitively and universally used to cover either a wound on the head or a wound on a stump. In addition, the device is extremely easy and convenient to use, saving precious medical treatment time and allowing a more rapid care of severe wounds, and ongoing treatment of chronic wounds. Being able to dress a wound more rapidly is greatly beneficial for the patient, as bleeding can be controlled much sooner by means of the immediate stop effect provided by the direct placement of the bandage; in addition, the wound exposure time is cut down, thereby reducing the risk of infection.

The illustrations of <FIG> present a bandage <NUM> in accordance with a second exemplary embodiment of the invention. Like features of the bandage <NUM> of <FIG> and the bandage <NUM> of <FIG> are numbered the same except preceded by the numeral '<NUM>'. As in the previous embodiment, the bandage <NUM> comprises a main body <NUM> having a front side <NUM>, a rear side <NUM>, a right side <NUM>, a left side <NUM>, an inner surface <NUM>, an outer surface <NUM>, an internal cavity <NUM> for receiving a head or stump, and a bottom edge or rim <NUM> delimiting a bottom opening for inserting the head or stump into the cavity <NUM>. The main body <NUM> further includes several elongated through ports <NUM> and two punctual or discrete through ports <NUM> providing access to the internal cavity <NUM> from outside the bandage <NUM>. Two straps <NUM> extend from the rear side <NUM> to the front side <NUM> of the main body <NUM>, along the left and right sides <NUM>, <NUM>, respectively, and along the rim <NUM> and parallel to the rim <NUM>. Similarly to the previous embodiment, a first end <NUM> of the adjustment straps <NUM> is fixedly or non-disconnectably attached to the main body rear side <NUM> and an opposite second end <NUM> is disconnectably attachable to the main body front side <NUM>. The straps <NUM> are disconnectably attachable to the main body <NUM> by a hook-and-loop connection formed by a first hook-and-loop element <NUM> forming part of the strap <NUM> and a compatible second hook-and-loop element <NUM> included in the main body <NUM>. As shown in <FIG>, the first and second hook-and-loop elements <NUM>, <NUM> are elongated and arranged parallel to the rim <NUM>, thereby increasing the adjustment range provided by the straps <NUM> and thus favoring that a single-size bandage <NUM> is usable on different head sizes or body parts.

The main body <NUM> is formed of an innermost soft, skin-compatible first layer <NUM>, an outermost non-permeable third layer <NUM>, and an intermediate second layer. As shown in <FIG>, the second layer of the present embodiment is a flexible bladder <NUM>, i.e. a flexible non-permeable layer comprising an internal cavity <NUM> for housing at least one solid substance, at least one liquid substance, at least one gaseous substance, or combinations thereof. A bladder access port <NUM> provides access to the internal cavity <NUM>, for instance in order to inject air or warm water into the internal cavity <NUM>. The bladder access port <NUM> of the present embodiment is initially closed by a perforable or tearable membrane <NUM>, which can optionally include an X-shaped score or other predefined score to facilitate tearing or perforating the membrane <NUM> with a syringe or manually, to name a few examples. In some embodiments, the internal cavity <NUM> can be provided with isolated or non-isolated compartments to promote a uniform distribution of the substance(s) within the cavity.

The illustrations of <FIG> depict several usage scenarios of the bandage of <FIG> Referring initially to <FIG>, the bandage <NUM> is shown fitted onto a patient's head in order to provide an adjusted dressing of the head in the event of a trauma or wounds. The illustration of <FIG>, in turn, shows the bandage <NUM> fitted onto a patient's head and a syringe <NUM> having perforated and penetrated a discrete through port <NUM> and in the process of administering a liquid medicine (not shown) onto a wound <NUM>. Finally, the illustration of <FIG> presents a further application in which the bandage <NUM> has been fitted onto a patient's head and a nozzle or syringe <NUM> has perforated the membrane <NUM> (<FIG>) and penetrated the bladder access port <NUM> and has injected air into the inner flexible bladder <NUM>, causing the flexible bladder <NUM> to expand and the bandage <NUM> to compress the head of the patient, such as to stop bleeding of a wound <NUM>. In turn, a drainage tube <NUM> has been inserted through a discrete through port <NUM> in order to remove body fluids from a wound <NUM>. In a further application, not shown in the drawings, a vacuum tube could be inserted into a discrete through port <NUM> and a suction force could be applied through the vacuum tube in order to create a vacuum inside the bandage <NUM>, thereby removing air from the internal cavity of the main body and thus reducing the risk of contamination of the wound as well as increasing compression of the wound.

In some embodiments, the internal cavity <NUM> of the flexible bladder <NUM> can hold solid substances for specific treatment purposes. For instance and without limitation, the bandage <NUM> can be manufactured in such a way that the internal cavity <NUM> is marketed containing solid substances that are configured to exothermically react with a liquid (e.g., water). Thus, when placing the bandage <NUM> on the patient's head or limb, the medical professional can inject water through the bladder access port <NUM> to cause an exothermic reaction between the water and the solid substances and thus warm the bandage <NUM>.

Alternative embodiments are contemplated in which the main body includes both an internal flexible bladder and an internal absorbent layer, in which case the flexible bladder is preferably arranged externally to the absorbent layer. The main body is therefore capable of absorbing and retaining body fluids from a wound and simultaneously compressing the wound, for instance to stop the wound from bleeding.

The illustrations of <FIG> present a bandage <NUM> in accordance with a third exemplary embodiment of the invention. Like features of the bandage <NUM> of <FIG> and the bandage <NUM> of <FIG> are numbered the same except preceded by the numeral '<NUM>'. As shown, the bandage <NUM> comprises a cap-shaped main body <NUM>. Similarly to previous embodiments, the main body <NUM> has an inner surface (not shown, but otherwise similar to inner surface <NUM> of bandage <NUM> shown in <FIG>), an outer surface <NUM>, and an inner cavity (not shown, but otherwise similar to inner cavity <NUM>). The inner cavity is delimited by the inner surface and is configured to at least partially receive a head, limb, stump, finger or protruding body part. In the present figures, for instance, the bandage <NUM> is shown applied to a leg stump <NUM> such that an end of the leg stump <NUM> is received within the inner cavity of the main body <NUM>. Similarly to previous embodiments, the main body <NUM> comprises a skin-compatible first layer <NUM>, a second layer <NUM>, and a non-permeable third layer <NUM>. The first layer <NUM> is arranged closer to the inner cavity than the third layer <NUM>, and the second layer <NUM> is sandwiched between the first layer <NUM> and the third layer <NUM> and comprises at least one space <NUM> through which the first and third layers <NUM>, <NUM> directly face one another. Similarly to previous embodiments, at least one through port <NUM>, <NUM> is arranged at said at least one space <NUM>, for accessing the inner cavity of the main body <NUM> from outside the main body <NUM> and through the first, second and third layers <NUM>, <NUM> and <NUM>, or for stabilizing or supporting a drain or tubing passing through the port.

As further shown in <FIG>, two straps <NUM> extend along opposite sides of the main body <NUM>, at or near an edge or rim <NUM> of the main body <NUM>. Similarly to previous embodiments, a first end (not shown) and an opposite second end <NUM> of the adjustment straps <NUM> are non-disconnectably and disconnectably attached to the main body <NUM>, respectively. The second end <NUM> of the straps <NUM> is disconnectably attachable to the main body <NUM> by a hook-and-loop connection formed by a first hook-and-loop element <NUM> forming part of the strap <NUM> and a compatible second hook-and-loop element <NUM> included in the main body <NUM>. As shown in <FIG>, the first and second hook-and-loop elements <NUM>, <NUM> can be elongated and arranged at or near the rim <NUM>.

In a first illustrative use of the bandage <NUM>, as shown in <FIG>, the straps <NUM> can be normally arranged to extend along the main body <NUM> and the first hook-and-loop element <NUM> of each strap <NUM> can engage with the corresponding second hook-and-loop element <NUM> on the main body <NUM>, without the straps <NUM> engaging with each other. In a second illustrative use of the bandage <NUM>, shown in <FIG>, the straps <NUM> are wound or twisted with one another and the second end <NUM> of each strap <NUM> is oriented rearward, toward the corresponding fixed, first end of the strap <NUM>, with the second ends <NUM> attached to the second hook-and-loop elements <NUM> on the main body <NUM>. This second application allows for a tighter fitting of the bandage <NUM> onto the stump or other body part. In a third illustrative application of the bandage <NUM>, shown in <FIG>, the straps <NUM> are tied into a knot <NUM>, providing an even tighter fitting of the main body <NUM> onto the stump or other body part. Though not specifically shown in <FIG>, the first hook-and-loop elements <NUM> carried by the straps <NUM> can be optionally attached to the second hook-and-loop elements <NUM> on the main body <NUM>.

In other words, the straps of the present embodiment or other embodiments not only may present varying lengths but also are susceptible to being tied or arranged in different ways to provide various effects (e.g. varying-strength tourniquet effects) on the body part to be covered by the bandage.

The illustration of <FIG> presents a bandage <NUM> in accordance with a fourth illustrative embodiment of the invention. Like features of the bandage <NUM> of <FIG> and the bandage <NUM> of <FIG> are numbered the same except preceded by the numeral `<NUM>'. As shown, the bandage <NUM> comprises a cap-shaped main body <NUM> having an inner surface (not shown, but otherwise similar to inner surface <NUM> of bandage <NUM> shown in <FIG>), an outer surface <NUM>, and an inner cavity (not shown, but otherwise similar to inner cavity <NUM>) which is delimited by the inner surface. Similarly to previous embodiments, the main body <NUM> comprises a skin-compatible first layer <NUM>, a second layer <NUM>, and a non-permeable third layer <NUM>. The first layer <NUM> is arranged closer to the inner cavity than the third layer <NUM>, and the second layer <NUM> is sandwiched between the first layer <NUM> and the third layer <NUM> and comprises at least one space <NUM> through which the first and third layers <NUM>, <NUM> directly face one another. Similarly to previous embodiments, at least one through port <NUM> is arranged at said at least one space <NUM>, for accessing the inner cavity of the main body <NUM> from outside the main body <NUM> and through the first, second and third layers <NUM>, <NUM> and <NUM>, or for stabilizing or supporting a drain or tubing passing through the port. A single strap <NUM> extends along the main body <NUM>, at or near an edge or rim <NUM> of the main body <NUM> and attaches to the main body <NUM> by a hook-and-loop fastener. The main body <NUM> of the present embodiment is, however, smaller in size than previous embodiments, and is configured to at least partially cover a user's finger <NUM>.

The drawing of <FIG> shows a bandage <NUM> in accordance with a fifth illustrative embodiment of the invention. Like features of the bandage <NUM> of <FIG> and the bandage <NUM> of <FIG> are numbered the same except preceded by the numeral '<NUM>'. As shown, the bandage <NUM> comprises a cap-shaped main body <NUM> having an inner surface (not shown, but otherwise similar to inner surface <NUM> of bandage <NUM> shown in <FIG>), an outer surface <NUM>, and an inner cavity (not shown, but otherwise similar to inner cavity <NUM>) which is delimited by the inner surface. Similarly to previous embodiments, the main body <NUM> comprises a skin-compatible first layer <NUM>, a second layer <NUM>, and a non-permeable third layer <NUM>. The first layer <NUM> is arranged closer to the inner cavity than the third layer <NUM>, and the second layer <NUM> is sandwiched between the first layer <NUM> and the third layer <NUM> and comprises at least one space <NUM> through which the first and third layers <NUM>, <NUM> directly face one another. Similarly to previous embodiments, at least one through port <NUM> is arranged at said at least one space <NUM>, for accessing the inner cavity of the main body <NUM> from outside the main body <NUM> and through the first, second and third layers <NUM>, <NUM> and <NUM>, or for stabilizing or supporting a drain or tubing passing through the port. At least one strap <NUM> extends along the main body <NUM>, at or near an edge or rim <NUM> of the main body <NUM> and attaches to the main body <NUM> by a hook-and-loop fastener.

Similarly to the bandage <NUM> of <FIG>, the main body <NUM> of the present embodiment is relatively small in size and is configured to at least partially cover a user's finger <NUM>. In a further aspect of the invention, the bandage <NUM> of the present invention is provided with an adjustable height which allows a user to easily and conveniently alter the overall height of the main body <NUM>, such as to adjust the main body <NUM> to different finger lengths, wounds or areas to be treated, etc. Specifically, the main body <NUM> can include several body portions which initially come attached to one another and can be separated from one another to reduce the size of the main body <NUM> if so required by the medical condition to be treated. For instance and without limitation, the main body <NUM> of the present embodiment includes comprises two body portions, i.e. a first body portion <NUM> and a second body portion <NUM>. The first body portion <NUM> is cap-shaped and the second body portion <NUM> is annularly-shaped and extends along an edge of the first body portion <NUM>. The first body portion <NUM> and second body portion <NUM> are initially attached to one another or integrally-formed with one another, with a scored or tear line or area <NUM> formed between the first and second body portions <NUM> and <NUM> to facilitate removing the second body portion <NUM> if not needed. In operation, the bandage <NUM> is placed on a person's finger <NUM> and, if the finger <NUM> is relatively long or the wound to be treated is relatively small and arranged at a tip of the finger, the second body portion <NUM> may be ripped or torn off the first body portion <NUM> along the tear area <NUM> and the second body portion <NUM> may be removed from the finger <NUM> and either discarded or used for alternative purposes (e.g. as a tourniquet). To illustrate this process of removing the second body portion <NUM>, the drawing of <FIG> shows the second body portion <NUM> arranged in a partially removed position shown in broken lines and indicated with reference numeral <NUM>'. As further shown in the drawing, one or both of the main body portions can be provided with one or more straps <NUM>. The one or more straps <NUM> of the second body portion <NUM> are removable jointly with the second body portion <NUM>. Furthermore, the at least one space <NUM> and corresponding through ports <NUM> can extend through one or both main body portions, in different implementations of the invention; for instance, in the example shown in the drawing, the spaces <NUM> and corresponding through ports <NUM> extend along both the first body portion <NUM> and the second body portion <NUM>. Finally, it must be noted that, similarly to other aspects of the invention, the aspect of having the main body formed by two or more separable parts can be applied to any one of the other embodiments described herein.

The illustrations of <FIG> and <FIG> show a bandage <NUM> in accordance with a sixth exemplary embodiment of the invention. Like features of the bandage <NUM> of <FIG> and <FIG> and the bandage <NUM> of <FIG> are numbered the same except preceded by the numeral '<NUM>'. Similarly to previous embodiments, the medical bandage <NUM> comprises a main body <NUM> having an inner surface <NUM>, an outer surface <NUM> and an inner cavity <NUM> delimited by the inner surface <NUM> for at least partially receiving a body part such as, but not limited to, a head <NUM>. Similarly to previous embodiments, the main body <NUM> includes a skin-compatible first layer <NUM>, a second layer <NUM>, and a non-permeable third layer <NUM>, the second layer <NUM> being sandwiched between the first and third layers <NUM> and <NUM> and comprising at least one space <NUM> through which the first and third layers <NUM> and <NUM> directly face one another. At least one through port <NUM> is arranged at said at least one space <NUM> (for instance, by perforating the first and third layers <NUM> and <NUM> in the area of the space <NUM>, for example at or along a perforated or tearable seam <NUM>), for accessing the inner cavity <NUM> of the main body <NUM> from outside the main body <NUM> and through the first, second and third layers <NUM>, <NUM> and <NUM>, or for stabilizing or supporting a drain or tubing passing through the port <NUM>.

Similarly to the embodiment of <FIG>, the main body <NUM> of the present embodiment is comprised of several body portions. Specifically, the main body <NUM> is formed of a longitudinal body portion <NUM> and two opposite side body portions <NUM>. As shown in <FIG>, the longitudinal body portion <NUM> is configured to cover the head <NUM> or other protruding body part in a front-to-back arrangement, while the two opposite side body portions <NUM> are configured to be arranged on opposite sides of the longitudinal body portion <NUM> and cover sides of the head <NUM> or body portion, with the longitudinal and side body portions <NUM> and <NUM> forming a cap- or dome-shaped structure. In the present embodiment, however, at least one of the side body portions <NUM> is pivotably attached to the longitudinal body portion <NUM> along a hinge section <NUM>, such that the pivotable side body portion <NUM> can pivotably switch between the aforementioned cap-shaped arrangement of <FIG> and an open position, shown in <FIG>, in which the pivotable side body portion <NUM> is pivoted away from the cavity <NUM> and towards the longitudinal body portion <NUM>.

This pivotable connection between the longitudinal body portion <NUM> and one or, preferably, both side body portions <NUM> facilitates donning the bandage <NUM> on the head <NUM> of a person in a supine position, as shown in <FIG>. Specifically, as shown in broken lines in <FIG>, a medical professional may initially place the bandage <NUM> in the aforementioned open position (indicated with reference numeral <NUM>'), and tuck a rear end <NUM> of the longitudinal body portion <NUM> underneath the person's head <NUM>. Next, the medical professional may pull a front end <NUM> of the longitudinal body portion <NUM> towards the person's forehead, as indicated by arrow B, and place the longitudinal body portion <NUM> on or along the person's head <NUM> as shown. Once the longitudinal body portion <NUM> is deployed on the head <NUM>, the side body portions <NUM> can be pivoted towards the head <NUM> as indicated by arrows C and placed on or near the sides of the head <NUM> as shown in <FIG>. Finally, the straps <NUM> can be extended over the longitudinal and side body portions <NUM> and <NUM> to retain the side body portions <NUM> in the position of <FIG>, i.e. to maintain the main body <NUM> in cap-shaped form and secure the main body <NUM> to the head <NUM>.

Because one or both of the side body portions <NUM> of the bandage <NUM> of <FIG> are pivotable relative to the longitudinal body portion <NUM>, and both body portions <NUM>, <NUM> are flexible or malleable (similarly to the rest of embodiments), the bandage <NUM> can adopt a myriad of positions and shapes by deforming the longitudinal body portion <NUM> and/or the side body portions <NUM>, and pivoting the side body portions <NUM> relative to the longitudinal body portion <NUM>. For instance and without limitation, as shown in <FIG>, the longitudinal body portion <NUM> and side body portions <NUM> can adopt an extended position such that the main body <NUM> is relatively planar and can be used to cover a wider area of a person's body such as, but not limited to, the chest or thorax. For example, the bandage <NUM> can include an insulating material such as, but not limited to, biaxially-oriented polyethylene terephthalate (e.g., Mylar®), such as in the second layer <NUM>, allowing the bandage to be used over the chest to prevent pneumothorax.

The illustrations of <FIG> show a bandage <NUM> in accordance with a seventh exemplary embodiment of the invention. Like features of the bandage <NUM> of <FIG> and the bandage <NUM> of <FIG> are numbered the same except preceded by the numeral '<NUM>'. As best shown in <FIG>, similarly to previous embodiments, the medical bandage <NUM> comprises a main body <NUM> having an inner surface <NUM>, an outer surface <NUM> and an inner cavity <NUM> delimited by the inner surface <NUM> for at least partially receiving a body part. Similarly to previous embodiments, the main body <NUM> includes a skin-compatible first layer <NUM>, a second layer <NUM>, and a non-permeable third layer <NUM>, the second layer <NUM> being sandwiched between the first and third layers <NUM> and <NUM> and comprising at least one space <NUM> through which the first and third layers <NUM> and <NUM> directly face one another. At least one elongated through port <NUM> and/or discrete through port <NUM> is arranged at said at least one space <NUM>, for accessing the inner cavity <NUM> of the main body <NUM> from outside the main body <NUM> and through the first, second and third layers <NUM>, <NUM> and <NUM>, or for stabilizing or supporting a drain or tubing passing through the port <NUM>; for instance, the elongated through port <NUM> can be formed by perforating the first and third layers <NUM> and <NUM> in the area of the space <NUM>, such as at or along a perforated or tearable seam <NUM>.

In <FIG>, the sensor of the medical bandage of the invention is specifically shown. The bandage <NUM> is shown as further comprising at least one sensor <NUM>, such as a bioelectric sensor, configured to monitor one or more vital signs such as, but not limited to, pulse (heart rate), oxygen saturation, temperature, pressure (bandage pressure), blood pressure, moisture, bacterial concentration, presence of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), ECG (electrocardiogram), electroencephalogram (EEG), thermal imaging, or sleep, or to monitor other physiological or cognitive status. The sensor <NUM> may be in wired or wireless (e.g., infrared or Bluetooth) communication with a monitoring device (e.g., smartphone <NUM> shown in <FIG>). The sensor <NUM> includes a color-coded light visible to the medical professional and indicative of the sensor measurements, for quick assessment of patient status.

In some embodiments, the sensor can be embedded in the bandage. In other embodiments, such as the present embodiment, the sensor <NUM> can be detachably connectable to the bandage <NUM>, and more specifically, to the main body <NUM> of the bandage <NUM>. For example, as shown in <FIG> and <FIG>, the sensor <NUM> can be selectively attached or detached from the sensor connector <NUM> in the main body <NUM>.

The illustration of <FIG> shows an enlarged view of the sensor <NUM>. As can be seen, the sensor <NUM> can include a bottom platform <NUM>, a top platform <NUM> and a stem <NUM> extending between the bottom and top platforms <NUM> and <NUM>. A sensor circuit <NUM> can be provided on at least one of the bottom platform <NUM>, the top platform <NUM> and the stem <NUM> to be placed near a site of a pulse or site for wound and patient monitoring. For example, in the present embodiment, the sensor circuit <NUM> is arranged in the bottom platform <NUM>, which is configured to be placed closer to the body part that will be covered by the bandage <NUM>, allowing the sensor <NUM> to be placed directly over the site to be monitored (e.g., wound <NUM> shown in <FIG>). The top and bottom platforms <NUM> and <NUM> may be round, as shown, or present alternative shapes such as square, rectangular, oval, etc..

In some embodiments, when a sensor <NUM> is not plugged into the sensor connector <NUM>, the sensor connector <NUM> may also be used as a discrete port and serve the same purposes as the discrete through port <NUM> and other discrete through ports described herein with reference to the remaining embodiments. In other words, one or more discrete through ports provided in the bandage may be used as a sensor connector for detachably receiving a sensor.

In operation, as shown in <FIG>, the bandage <NUM> is fitted onto the head <NUM> of a user to cover wound <NUM>. The sensor connector <NUM> is oriented towards the wound <NUM> and the sensor <NUM> is inserted or plugged into the sensor connector <NUM> such that the sensor circuit <NUM> faces the wound <NUM>. The sensor circuit <NUM> captures one or more measurements. A wired or wireless transmitter (not shown) comprised in the sensor transmits the measurement to a smartphone <NUM> or other monitoring device running a software application or program configured to process, store and/or visualize or present the measured data on a screen or other user interface, or carry out other operations with the measured data.

Alternative embodiments and uses of the invention are contemplated. For instance, the bandage can be used to cover alternative body parts to those shown in the drawings and/or described herein. Alternatively or additionally, the number and/or length of straps included in the bandage may vary.

Claim 1:
A medical bandage (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>) comprising:
a deformable main body (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>) having an inner surface (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>) and an outer surface (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>), wherein the main body is configured to adopt a position in which an inner cavity (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>) is delimited by the inner surface for at least partially receiving a head (<NUM>), limb, stump (<NUM>), finger (<NUM>) or other body part, wherein at least part of said main body comprises:
a skin-compatible first layer (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>);
a second layer (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>);
a non-permeable third layer (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>), wherein
the first layer is arranged closer to the inner cavity than the third layer, and further wherein
the second layer is arranged between the first layer and the third layer and comprises at least one space (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>) through which the first and third layers directly face one another; and
at least one through port (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>) arranged at said at least one space, for accessing the inner cavity of the main body from outside the main body and through the first, second and third layers, or for stabilizing or supporting a drain or tubing passing through the port ; wherein
the medical bandage further comprises at least one sensor (<NUM>) for measuring a body condition, the sensor carried by the main body and configured to establish wired or wireless communication with an external electronic device (<NUM>) for transmitting a measurement to said electronic device, wherein the at least one sensor comprises a light emitter configured to emit a color-coded light visible from outside the medical bandage and indicative of measurements by the at least one sensor.