WO2017007856A1

WO2017007856A1 - Bandage and methods thereof

Info

Publication number: WO2017007856A1
Application number: PCT/US2016/041199
Authority: WO
Inventors: Jan GNALL
Original assignee: Gnall Jan
Priority date: 2015-07-06
Filing date: 2016-07-06
Publication date: 2017-01-12

Abstract

In one embodiment of the present invention, a bandage for an extremity is provided, the bandage including a center segment for covering a surface of the extremity; at least one extension extending outward from the center segment, the at least one extension for securing the bandage to the extremity by wrapping around the center segment; wherein the at least one extension comprises a fastener for attaching to the back surface of the bandage.

Description

BANDAGE AND METHODS THEREOF

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] The present application claims priority to United States Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 62/188,859 entitled "Finger Bandage/' filed July 6, 2015, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety as if fully set forth herein.

BACKGROUND

Field of the Invention

[0002] Embodiments of the present invention generally relate to bandages and methods thereof. More specifically, embodiments of the present invention relate to bandages designed to reduce pain, prevent further trauma, and diminish exposure to infection when applied to a patient having medical conditions that affect circulation.

Description of Related Art

[0003] Many different medical conditions can cause wounds and/or ulcers of the extremities. Ulcers that occur on the fingers are called digital ulcers and may be caused by repeated episodes of reduced blood flow to the fingers. Digital ulcers are breaks in the skin that can occur anywhere on the finger, including in the areas of the three different bone groups of the finger: the proximal phalanx (bone nearest the palm of the hand), medial phalanx (middle) and distal phalanx (tip). Ulcers can occur on multiple areas of a digit and occur on many digits concurrently. Digital ulcers are prevalent in certain autoimmune diseases such as Raynaud's phenomenon, systemic sclerosis (SSc) or scleroderma, lupus erythematous, rheumatoid arthritis, multiple sclerosis and diabetes. In addition to autoimmune diseases, other medical conditions known to cause digital ulcers include: Buerger's disease, Chilblains, Frostbite, Basal cell and Squamous cell carcinomas, and Leprosy. [0004] One such condition that can cause ulcers of the extremities is Scleroderma. Scleroderma is a severe chronic autoimmune disease starting with vascular damages, triggering collagen synthesis dysfunction and fibrotic phenotype in the skin and internal organs. Globally, 1.4 million people suffer from scleroderma. Scleroderma, generally classified as one of the autoimmune rheumatic diseases, causes the body to produce excessive amounts of fibroblasts, which are associated with the formation of scar tissue. Hardening of the skin is one of the most visible manifestations of the disease. Excessive scar tissue occurs and can affect the entire body's skin structure including the organs and minimize proper vascular pathways in healing. The symptoms of scleroderma vary greatly for each person, and the effects of scleroderma can range from very mild to life threatening. Digital ulcers occur in over 75% of patients with scleroderma.

[0005] Digital ulcers are extremely painful to the touch, can impair finger function, and can compromise hand usage. In addition to being extremely painful, digital ulcers can become infected multiple times during the healing process due to poor circulation or poor healing capacity. Tissue surrounding the ulcers can break down before the healing process can occur and digits can have substantial tissue loss. The ulcers often take a significant amount of time to heal, and can last for years if blood flow is comprised or if the ulcer is exposed to additional trauma from contact or poor wound dressing/bandaging. In the worst cases, these ulcers can result in gangrene, which may lead to amputation of an extremity.

[0006] When present in people with scleroderma, digital ulcers most commonly occur at the tip of the finger, sometimes extending underneath the fingernail, or over the finger joints. The ulcers can also occur on other extremities, such as toes. Digital ulcers make routine daily activities very problematic. Sufferers can experience loss of function due to ulcer pain, tissue loss, and contracture of digits from skin tightening. In addition, Raynaud's phenomenon or disease, a condition in which the blood flow is comprised to the extremities during episodes or "attacks," may occur in individuals with scleroderma and may further affect the healing process. Ulcers may appear due to a combination of both vascular damage caused by the scleroderma and periods of deoxygenation of the tissue caused by Raynaud's attacks. People having scleroderma can also experience calcinosis, in which calcium deposits break through the skin and further interrupt the healing process. Digital ulcers may be triggered by trauma to the digit and insufficient protection.

[0007] Proper care is necessary for an ulcer to heal. Proper care includes protection against bacteria and trauma throughout the stages of the healing process. Quick fix standard adhesive bandages are ready-to-use, but do not serve as a protective covering when the normal healing process has been comprised. Standard adhesive bandages, such as Band-Aid® brand adhesive bandages ("bandaids") typically comprise a top non-adhesive surface and a bottom or wound-side surface comprising a protective and sterile pad or dressing and a pressure sensitive adhesive, or the like.

[0008] These and other solutions have disadvantages and drawbacks, however, when used to treat ulcers, wounds, and/ or the like of the extremities. Removal and replacement of the adhesive portion of standard adhesive bandages can irritate, tear, and/ or break down the surrounding tissue of the ulcer and can create new ulcers as a result. In cases where multiple ulcers or large ulcers are present, standard adhesive bandages do not have large enough protective arears or sterile areas to cover the entire wound area. Multiple bandages or oddly shaped bandages are used to create the proper coverage, which is not only costly, due to need to change the bandages at least daily, but can damage even larger areas of surrounding tissue during the removal and replacement process.

[0009] The adhesive or glue used in standard adhesive bandages can be corrosive and/ or cause allergic reactions to the skin. These bandages can irritate the skin, comprise surrounding tissue, and lead to new ulcer development. They don't allow the skin to breathe, causing moisture conditions that can lead to maceration. Current bandage solutions lack the capability of being easily removed and replaced. In addition, current bandage solutions are oddly shaped, do not include sufficient sterile area, and are not sufficiently padded to protect wounds against further trauma. These solutions also do not allow a user to easily apply a bandage and adjust the pressure or force of attachment of the bandage at more than one location.

[0010] Thus, there is a need for a bandage for reducing pain, preventing further trauma, and diminishing exposure to infection for individuals with sores, wounds, and ulcers on the fingers, elbows, toes, extremities and/ or other areas prone to skin breaks.

SUMMARY

[0011] Embodiments of the present invention generally relate to bandages for extremities. In one embodiment of the present invention, a bandage for an extremity is provided, the bandage comprising a center segment for covering a surface of the extremity; at least one extension extending outward from the center segment, the at least one extension for securing the bandage to the extremity by wrapping around the center segment; wherein the at least one extension comprises a fastener for attaching to the back surface of the bandage.

[0012] In another embodiment of the present disclosure, a bandage for a finger is provided, the bandage comprising a center segment for covering a surface of the finger; a first extension extending perpendicularly outward from the center segment, the first extension for securing the bandage to the finger by wrapping around the proximal portion of the finger and the center segment; a second extension extending perpendicularly outward from the center segment on an opposite side of the center segment than the first extension, the second extension for securing the bandage to the finger by wrapping around the distal portion of the finger and the center segment; wherein the first extension and second extension comprise a fastener for attaching to the back surface of the bandage.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0013] So the manner in which the above recited features of the present invention can be understood in detail, a more particular description of embodiments of the present invention, briefly summarized above, may be had by reference to embodiments, which are illustrated in the appended drawings. It is to be noted, however, the appended drawings illustrate only typical embodiments of embodiments encompassed within the scope of the present invention, and, therefore, are not to be considered limiting, for the present invention may admit to other equally effective embodiments, wherein:

[0014] Figure 1A depicts a front side view of a bandage in accordance with one embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0015] Figure IB depicts a back side view of a bandage in accordance with one embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0016] Figure 2 depicts an exploded perspective view of a bandage in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure; and

[0017] Figures 3A - 3G depict a method of applying a bandage to a finger in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0018] The headings used herein are for organizational purposes only and are not meant to be used to limit the scope of the description or the claims. As used throughout this application, the word "may" is used in a permissive sense (i.e., meaning having the potential to), rather than the mandatory sense (i.e., meaning must). Similarly, the words "include", "including", and "includes" mean including but not limited to. To facilitate understanding, like reference numerals have been used, where possible, to designate like elements common to the figures.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0019] Bandages in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure may provide people suffering from digital ulcers, or the like, a true enhancement to current bandages. The bandages are designed to reduce pain, prevent further trauma, and diminish exposure to infection when applied to a patient having sores, wounds, and ulcers on their fingers, elbows, toes, extremities and/ or other areas prone to skin breaks due to medical conditions that affect circulation. The bandages may include a design that provides full coverage of the area around the ulcer, enabling a user to use a single bandage when multiple bandages may have been required previously.

[0020] A bandage in accordance with exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure may also provide additional benefits to the user. Some benefits include additional cushioning, sterile padding over an increased area, minimal adhesive, and fasteners designed to minimize irritation to the skin, to name a few. Additional cushioning, as provided in exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure, helps prevent further trauma to an ulcer, or the like, and allows for usage of a fingertip with minimal pain. Current bandages are not offered in a shape to properly dress a fingertip and/ or the dorsal side of a finger, or the like. These bandages are also not easily adjustable. In exemplary embodiments, a bandage may comprise a large sterile wound contact layer over much of the interior surface of the bandage. In many bandages, a small sterile rectangular area is present. Utilizing a large sterile wound contact layer allows for protection of the entire finger or extremity, which may have multiple ulcers or large ulcers on or around the equator of the fingertip, or the like.

[0021] In some embodiments, a bandage may comprise adhesive areas that minimize the effect of glue allergies and protect surrounding skin from trauma and breakage during bandage changes, or the like. A bandage may also utilize a mechanical fastener, such as a hook and loop fastener, which allows for ease of adjustability and removal/ replacement of the bandage. Use of mechanical fasteners allows for less adhesive, which would lessen the chance of irritation of the skin when the bandage is removed, and prevent further tissue breakdown. A hook and loop fastener, or the like, allows for a bandage to be taken off and then put back on without irritating or damaging the skin, as typical bandages do.

[0022] In accordance with exemplary embodiments, a bandage may be designed to fold over the tip and/ or knuckle of a finger, elbow, toe, other or extremity with extra cushion around the area or areas most prone to trauma. Some portions of the bandage may wrap around the finger, securing the bandage to the finger or extremity with a hook and loop closure, or the like. The wound contact layer may cover the entire fingertip or surface of the area surrounding the ulcer(s), or the like. These features may help to provide healing solutions that help manage proper wound care.

[0023] Current bandages and products fall short in providing the proper healing aids for chronic ulcers and sores, or the like. The adhesive glues, used to secure bandages on skin, damage tissue with continuous placement needed during the healing process. These products also lack the proper cushioning needed to protect against further trauma, and minimal wound contact layers of these product may not cover the entire affected area. Yet another problem with standard bandages is that they are thin- lined and do not provide any cushion support to the wound area and provide little protection against any further trauma to the area.

[0024] A bandage in accordance with exemplary embodiments may include a wound contact layer that is all or substantially all sterile and padded. This sterile area may protect the skin surrounding the ulcer and allow for protection if multiple ulcers are present on a digit. The bandage may also include a wrap-around securing layer having padding that provides extra cushion to the wound and protection from trauma. When the wound is protected from further trauma, both pain and interruptions in the healing process may be reduced.

[0025] Unlike other available bandages, a bandage in accordance with exemplary embodiments may include small adhesive layers that do not cover the entire surface of the securing layer. For example, in some embodiments, three 21.5mm x 7mm silicone adhesive areas may be used to position and secure the bandage in place. In some embodiments, the adhesive use may be silicone-based, or the like. The bandage may also include a substantially soft securing mechanism, such as a hook and loop closure. The hook and loop closure may be used for easy removal and re-application of the bandage, thereby reducing or minimizing possible damage or irritation to tissue around the wound or ulcer. The hook and loop closure may also allow for the tightness of bandage to be adjusted. For example, the hook and loop closure may allow the bandage to be placed loosely or tightened for comfort at a pressure desired by the user to promote healing and/ or lessen pain, or the like. The user may wrap the bandage in specific areas where extra padding may be needed. The hook and loop closure, or the like, may allow for extra gauze or padding to be added to the bandage if the user experiences calcinosis.

[0026] In accordance with exemplary embodiments, a bandage may comprise an outside securing layer, a wound contact layer, padding, adhesive, hoop and loop fasteners, and/ or the like. The securing layer may comprise any suitable image, indicia, color, or the like on an outer surface thereof. The securing layer may have sections of hook/ loop fasteners disposed thereon and adhesive for securing the dressing to the skin. Padding or cushioning, which may comprise foam, may be disposed within the securing layer or may be encapsulated between the securing layer and the wound contact layer.

[0027] Moisture management in bandages is critical for wound healing, as improper moisture levels can impede the healing process and/ or worsen the injury. In accordance with exemplary embodiments, each layer may be designed to provide the correct moisture vapor transition rate (MVTR) to promote healing. Each layer of a bandage in accordance with exemplary embodiments may work synergistically to promote proper moisture levels. Maceration is the softening and breaking down of skin resulting from prolonged exposure to moisture, which occurs in bandages without proper MVTR. Maceration can inhibit the healing process. A bandage in accordance with exemplary embodiments will reduce the likelihood of maceration by including materials that promote a MVTR to promote healing.

[0028] Bandages in accordance with exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure may offer many benefits over current adhesive bandages. Current adhesive bandages can serve as a quick protective covering, however using these bandages can slow the healing time for chronic ulcers by weeks or months. In the worst cases, use of these bandages may result in loss of tissue and gangrene leading to amputation of an extremity. The constant application, removal, and replacement of the adhesive portion of these bandages can irritate tissue and in some cases lead to tears and breaks in the skin. In some cases, the glue used in these adhesives can cause allergic reactions, particularly when used over long periods of time.

[0029] Bandages in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure have a limited number of adhesive areas, which are minimal in size. The bandages may include hook and loop closures to enable easy adjustment, removal, and reapplication of the bandage to reduce and/ or minimize possible damage or irritation to the tissue. The hook and loop fasteners also allow the bandage to be placed loosely or tightened for comfort and pressure. The bandages may comprise an encapsulated foam cushion, or the like, to protect the wound from trauma, help prevent interruption in the healing process, and help reduce pain from trauma. These bandages may comprise large sterile wound contact layers for multiple wounds on a finger seen with digital ulcers. The bandages may also include an indication, outline, picture, symbol, label, and/ or the like indicating where the user is to place his or her finger, extremity, or the like, on the bandage. In some embodiments, the bandage may cover the entire first joint of the finger, or the like.

[0030] The healing process for a wound, ulcer, or the like, can be broken down into three stages: inflammation, proliferation and maturation. A bandage in accordance with exemplary embodiments may improve the healing process at each of the three stages. The inflammation phase is the body's natural response to injury after the initial wound has occurred. Blood vessels contract around the wound and a clot is formed. Once clotted, blood vessels then dilate to allow essential cells such as antibodies, white blood cells, growth factors, enzymes and nutrients to reach the wounded area. This leads to increased fluid levels around the surrounding skin of the wound. It is at this stage that the characteristic signs of inflammation can be seen: pain, edema, redness and functional disturbances. Maceration of the surrounding skin can occur due to fluid buildup and if not cared for can cause the skin to deteriorate. A bandage in accordance with exemplary embodiments may aid in the healing process by providing full coverage of the wound with limited adhesive areas that would inhibit healing.

[0031] The proliferation stage is when the wound is rebuilt with new granulation tissue, which is made up of collagen, extracellular matrix and new blood vessel development. Healthy tissue is dependent on the connective tissue cells, called fibroblasts, receiving adequate oxygen and nutrients delivered by the blood vessels. Fibroblasts play a vital role in new tissue development in the form of a scar, the strength of the new tissue and speed up the healing process. A bandage in accordance with exemplary embodiments would provide a larger amount of coverage than typical adhesive bandages, thereby promoting healing. The maturation phase is known as the remodeling phase. It occurs after the wound has closed up. It can take as long as two years for this phase to complete. While one may think that the healing process is finished when maturation begins, it's important to keep in mind that if the wound is neglected there's a risk of tissue breaking down. A bandage in accordance with exemplary embodiments would protect the wound protect the wound from trauma by providing full coverage and extra padding, or the like.

[0032] To produce bandages in accordance with exemplary embodiments, each layer of the bandage may be produced on a roll, or the like. The rolls may be loaded onto a converting machine, or the like, which will bring each layer together and laminate or otherwise bind or connect them together. In some embodiments, the layers may be bound together with an adhesive, or the like. The shape of the bandages may be die cut in line, or the like. The bandages may then be packed individually into paper peel pouches and finally into a shelf carton, or the like. Sterilization of the bandages may be done by ethylene oxide sterilization (ETO), or the like.

[0033] In some embodiments, a bandage may be designed to be applied to the fingers of the hands, which may also be referred to as digits. Each finger may comprise different bones called phalanges, which may be separated into three groups: proximal, medial and distal. When finger tissue is injured, breaks in the skin and/ or mucous membranes can result in the form of a wound. Under proper vascular function, with capillaries bringing oxygen rich blood flow to a wound, healing can occur in a short time. Autoimmune diseases such as Raynaud's phenomenon, Scleroderma, Lupus Erythematosus, Rheumatoid Arthritis, Multiple Sclerosis and Diabetes can compromise proper blood flow to the extremities including, both not limited to, the hands and fingers. Under conditions such as these, normal breaks in the skin may not heal and become chronic ulcers. Bandages in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure may be designed to aid in reducing the healing time of these chronic ulcers.

[0034] In exemplary embodiments, each bandage designed for adults may be produced in varying sizes, such as extra small, small, medium, large, and extra large, or the like. Bandages for children may be produced in varying sizes, such as extra small, small, medium, large, and extra large, or the like. The bandages may be produced and/ or packaged with varying amounts of padding or cushioning. For example, bandages may be produced with or without an extra cushion to give the customer more options. In some embodiments, the bandages may be produced and/ or packaged with small cushioning, medium cushioning, large cushioning, and/ or the like. The cushioning level may be designed for specific wounds, ulcers, or the like or the severity of injury.

[0035] In exemplary embodiments, bandages may be designed and produced in various coverage sizes. For example, the coverage sizes may comprise fingertip (covering only the fingertip), knuckle (covering only the knuckle), full size (covering the entire finger), and/ or the like. A bandage may also be designed and/ or produced to fit over the elbow, or the like. Bandage may also be designed and/ or produced to fit the toes using the same design as the finger, only shorter. For these and other reasons, bandages in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure may provide people suffering from digital ulcers, or the like, a true enhancement to current bandages.

[0036] Figures 1A and IB depict a front side view and a back side view, respectively, of a bandage 100 in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure. A bandage 100 in accordance with exemplary embodiments may generally comprise a center segment 104 and a number of extensions 102, 106 for securing the bandage 100 to an extremity having an ulcer, wound, sore, irritation, or the like. Each of the sections of the bandage 100, may comprise a single layer or more than one layer. When more than one layer is utilized, the layers may comprise more than a wound contact layer closest to the wound, a wrap-around securing layer for securing the bandage 100 to an extremity, hook/loop fasteners and/or closures, padding, an adhesive, and/ or the like. FIG 1A shows a wound contact layer of the bandage 100. The wound contact layer may include portions designed to come into direct contact with the wound. The wound contact layer may include sterile padding or bandaging, which may include a nonwoven pad, or the like. The wound contact layer may include material that is resistant to sticking to wounds, ulcers, and/ or the like.

[0037] Although the figures illustrate securing the bandage to a finger, it is contemplated by and within embodiments of the present disclosure that the bandage 100 may be sized to be used on other extremities. For example, the bandage 100 may be secured to toes when made in the correct proportions. The bandage may comprise a suitable number of extensions 102, 106 that may be used to secure the bandage to an extremity. In the example depicted in the Figures, the bandage 100 includes a first extension 102 and a second extension 106. In other embodiments, the bandage 100 may include a different number of extensions 102, 106. For example, the bandage 100 may include two extensions on one side and one extension on an opposite side. In another example, the bandage 100 may include three extensions on the same side. In yet another example, the bandage may include only a single extension 102, or the like. Generally the bandage 100 may include two extensions, however it is contemplated that any suitable number of extensions between one and fifty may be used and the number of extensions may depend on the thickness of each extension. In some embodiments, the center segment 104 and all extensions 102, 106 may be formed in a single strip. In other embodiments of the present disclosure, the center segment 104 and one or more of the extensions 102, 106 may be separate pieces joined together with mechanical fasteners, stitching, adhesive, and/ or the like.

[0038] A human hand and fingers may be described has having two sides. The two sides may include a ventral (or palmar) side and a dorsal side. The ventral side is the palm or grasping side of the hand and the dorsal side is the back or posterior side of the hand. The fingers of a hand may be described as having three sections broken up by joints. The sections of a finger may include a proximal section (closest to the palm and including the proximal phalanx), a medial section (further away from the palm than the proximal section and including the middle phalanx), and the distal section (furthest away from the palm and including the distal phalanx). A thumb does not have a middle or medial phalanx, and as such, only includes two sections. Embodiments of the present invention may generally be described herein with respect to application of the bandage 100 to a finger of a hand. It is contemplated that the bandage 100 may also be used for different extremities. The example of a finger of a hand is merely to provide an example of a bandage 100 in accordance with exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure. As used herein, whenever the term finger is used, any extremity may be substituted in.

[0039] Although the bandage 100 depicted in the Figures is formed in a shape resembling the letter "Z," any suitable shape having a center segment and extensions 102, 106, are contemplated by and within embodiments of the present disclosure. For example, in some embodiments, the extensions 102, 106 may be positioned on the same side of the center segment 104, and not on opposing sides, as depicted in the figures.

[0040] In exemplary embodiments, the center segment 104 may generally be sized, designed, and/ or configured to cover and/ or protect all, or nearly all of the of dorsal side of a finger and a distal portion of the palmar side of the finger (the finger tip). The center segment 104 may include a center distal portion 110 for covering the palmar side of a fingertip and a center proximal portion 120 for adhering or otherwise attaching to the proximal portion of the dorsal side of a finger, or the like. The center segment 104 may comprise a sterile wound contact area on a first side, disposed between the center proximal portion 120 and the center distal portion 110, or the like. In the embodiment depicted in Figure 1A, an adhesive is disposed on the wound contact layer of the

[0041] In some embodiments, the center distal portion 110 and/ or the center proximal portion 120 may include an adhesive, such as a silicone-based adhesive, an acrylic adhesive, and/ or the like. For example, the adhesive may comprise a 3M® 9916 adhesive or 3MTM Spunlace Tape, a silicone adhesive that is not harsh on the skin and allows for adjustability and replacement. The adhesive used may be hypoallergenic, or non-sensitizing to the general public. In some embodiments, the adhesives, may comprise hot melt adhesives, or the like. Examples of other suitable adhesives may include, but are not limited, to those based on styrenic block copolymers and tackifying resins. Ethylene copolymers, including ethylene vinyl acetate copolymers, may also be used as adhesives in the practice of embodiments of the present invention.

[0042] The center segment 104 may comprise a relatively small amount of adhesive or another securing means such as a band, or the like. The center segment 104 may be generally rectangular in shape, or may comprise other shapes suitable for placement on an extremity, or the like. The center segment 104 may be designed to promote ulcer and/ or wound healing, or the like. The center segment 104 may comprise a finger placement indicator 150 to notify the user that is where the finger should be placed when applying the bandage 100, or the like.

[0043] In exemplary embodiments, the bandage 100 may comprise extensions 102, 106 for securing the bandage 100 to an extremity and/ or providing additional wound coverage with sterile areas, or the like. For example, a fist extension 102 may extend perpendicularly from the center proximal portion 120 of the center segment 104, or the like to a first end portion 140. A second extension 106 may extend perpendicularly from the center distal portion 110 of the center segment 104, or the like to a second end portion 130. In some embodiments, the center segment 104 may be one continuous band with the extensions 102, 106, or the like. In some embodiments, the widths and/ or heights of each of the center segment 104, the first extension 102, and the second extension 106 may be the same or similar. In some embodiments, the dimensions, widths, and/ or heights of each of the center segment 104, the first extension 102, and the second extension 106 may be the same or similar. In some embodiments, the dimensions, widths and/ or heights of the center segment 104 and the extensions 102, 106 may comprise different dimensions. In some embodiments, the extensions 102, 106, may be spaced apart on the center segment 104, so that a gap is created between the extensions 102, 106. This gap may allow the user to more easily bend his or her finger and may reduce stress to the ulcer, wound, or the like caused by the bandage 100.

[0044] A center segment 104 in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure may comprise a height c and a width w and be generally rectangular in shape, or the like. For example, the center segment 104 may comprise a height c of approximately 65 - 125 mm and a width w of 10 - 30 mm, or the like. For example, the height c of the center segment 104 may be 95 mm and the width w of the center segment 104 may be 20 mm. A first extension 102 in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure may comprise a height and a width b, and be generally rectangular in shape, or the like. For example, the first extension 102 may comprise a height a of approximately 65 - 125 mm and a width b of 5 - 30 mm, or the like. For example, the height a of the first extension 102 may be 95 mm and the width b of the first extension 102 may be 15 mm.

[0045] In accordance with exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure, the bandage 100 may comprise a second extension 106. The second extension 106 may extend perpendicularly from the center distal portion to the second end portion 130 on an opposite side of the center segment 104 than the first extension 102. A second extension 106 in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure may comprise a height x and a width z and be generally rectangular in shape, or the like. For example, the second extension 106 may comprise a height x of approximately 65 - 125 mm and a width z of 10 - 40 mm, or the like. For example, the height x of the second extension 106 may be 95 mm and the width z of the second extension 106 may be 25 mm.

[0046] In some embodiments one or more of the extensions 102, 106 may comprise a tab 132, or the like, having a closure member thereon, such as a hook or loop closure. The tab 132 may extend from the end of one or more extensions 102, 106. For example, in the embodiment depicted in Figure 1A, a tab 132 may extend from a second end portion 130 of the second extension 106, or the like. Although a tab is not depicted on the first extension 102 and the hook or loop fastener is disposed on a wound contact layer surface of the first end portion 140, it is contemplated that an additional tab having a fastener thereon may also extend from the first end portion 140 of the first extension 102, or the like. By way of example, the fastener may include a hook and/ or loop fastener element adapted to couple with the back surface of the bandage depicted in Figure IB, or the like. Any extension 102, 106 may comprise a tab 132 comprising a fastener for securing the tab 132 to the back surface of the bandage 100, or the like.

[0047] An exemplary tab 132 is depicted in the figures on the second end portion 130 of the second extension 106. In exemplary embodiments, any suitable number of tabs 132 may be used. For example, the bandage 100 may comprise 0, 1, 2, 3 tabs 132, or a number of tabs 132 equal to the number of extensions 102, 106, or the like. In the example depicted in the figures, the first extension 102 does not have a tab 132 at the first end portion 140, but the second extension 106 may comprise a tab 132. A tab 132 may comprise a width y of approximately 10 - 20 mm and a height t of approximately 5 - 15 mm. In some embodiments, for example, a tab 132 disposed at the second end portion 130, may comprise a width y of 15 mm and a height t of 10 mm. In exemplary embodiments, the material of the back surface of the bandage 100, depicted in Figure IB, may a nonwoven or woven fabric designed to couple with a hook fastener or loop fastener present on the first end portion 140 and/ or the second end portion 130, or the like, thereby enabling the bandage to be tightened around an extremity. The outside surface of the bandage 100 depicted in Figure IB, may comprise a 3M® 1361 material due to its properties of being cushioned, sterile, an and non-stick.

[0048] Figure 2 depicts an exploded perspective view of the bandage 100 shown in Figures 1A and IB, in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure. The bandage 100 may comprise a wound contact layer 101, a securing layer 103, a padding layer 105, and/ or the like. The wound contact layer may comprise nearly entirely sterile material covering between 70% - 95% of the center segment 104, the first extension 102, and the second extension 106, collectively. In some embodiments, the wound contact layer may comprise adhesive, for example, disposed on the center proximal portion 120, disposed on the center distal portion 110, and/ or the like. The wound contact layer may serve as a distance element, thereby providing a distance between the actual wound and the other layers of the bandage 100. The wound contact layer may serve as storage for liquid sucked, pulled, or directed out of the wound, or the like. The stored liquid may not contribute to maceration of the skin surrounding the wound, thereby promoting healing.

[0049] In exemplary embodiments, the wound contact layer may comprise a hook and/ or loop closure, for example, disposed at the first end portion 140 or the second end portion 130, and/or the like. When the bandage 100 is complete, a padding layer 105 may be disposed and/or encapsulated between the wound contact layer 101 and the securing layer 103. The padding layer 105 may be present under each of the center segment 104, the first extension 102, and/ or the second extension 106. In some embodiments, the padding layer 105 may be present only in one or two of the center segment 104, the first extension 102, and/ or the second extension 106. In some embodiments, the padding layer 105 may be removable via an enclosure, a pocket, or the like, to enable a user to adjust the padding level of the bandage 100. In some embodiments, the padding layer 105 may be disposed between the wound contact layer 101 and the securing layer 103. In the example depicted in Figure 2, the padding comprises a notch or cutout in the area of the central distal portion 110 and does not extend all the way to the end of the center proximal portion 120, or the like. This notch in the center distal portion 110 and the spacing at the top of the center proximal portion 120 enables the portions of the wound contact layer 101 having an adhesive disposed thereon to be connected directly to the securing layer 103, thereby improving the flexibility of the bandage 100 by not including thick padding of the padding layer 105 in those portions of the bandage 100. The padding layer 105 may be disposed between the entire length of both the wound contact layer and the securing layer, and/ or it may be disposed in certain portions likely to be covering an ulcer or wound when the bandage 100 is secured in place on an extremity, or the like. In some embodiments, the padding layer 105 may comprise a porous foam, or the like. The padding layer 105 may be absorbent and may be designed to draw harmful moisture away from a wound, or the like. The padding layer 105 may absorb moisture and wound exudate, maintaining a moist environment and promoting wound healing; 2) remove excess liquid and perspiration from the skin surface to prevent maceration that can compromise the integrity of skin;

[0050] A bandage 100 in accordance with exemplary embodiments that may comprise a wound contact layer 101 comprising a 3M ® #7334 low profile hook, Suitable materials may include, but are not limited to, polyurethane films; polyolefin films, such as polyethylene and polypropylene films; polyvinylchloride films; ethylene vinyl acetate films; woven fabrics; nonwoven fabrics; and the like. As used herein, a hook and loop fastener may comprise a white polyolefin hook fastener designed for medical device construction and applications that require high peel strength, or the like. The hook fastener may comprise a caliper measurement of 0.47 mm (18.5 mils), or the like.

[0051] In exemplary embodiments, the wound contact layer 101 may comprise 3M® 1361 as a liner and a Stratex ® 5.5 NVB-E material as padding material, or the like. The wound contact layer 101 may be cushioned, sterile, and non-stick. In some embodiments the wound contact layer wound contact layer may have a suitable level of absorbency to promote healing of an ulcer, wound, and/ or the like. The Stratex ® material may comprise an absorptive capacity of 75 oz/yd2 and a thickness of 100 mils, or the like. The securing layer 103 may comprise a soft, stretchable material, which may comprise a nonwoven tape, such as 3MTM Medical Tan Nonwoven Tape, product number 9916, or the like. The material may be soft, such that reduces the chance of irritation of sores on surrounding fingers, extremities, or the like. The securing layer 103 may be hypoallergenic, breathable, highly comfortable, sterile, and/ or the like. The adhesive may be applied to the wound contact layer 101 and/ or the securing layer 103 to apply the bandage 100 to the finger of the user. The adhesive may comprise acrylate adhesive developed for medical/ surgical use, and/ or the like. The material used in the securing layer 103 may also be ETO and gamma sterilization compatible, and it may contain no natural rubber latex.

[0052] In some embodiments, the adhesive may be utilized to removable attach portions of the center segment 104 to the finger of the user, or the like. The adhesive may comprise 3M® 9916, a silicone adhesive that is not harsh on the skin and allows for adjustability and replacement, or the like. It is to be understood that embodiments of the present disclosure may comprise materials included in any adhesive bandage now known or later contemplated. The wound contact layer may comprise an absorbent material, which may be a nonwoven material made from rayon fibers, polyester fibers, a blend of such fibers, and/ or the like. It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that other fibers, e.g., cotton fibers or polyolefin fibers may be used in constructing the wound contact layer.

[0053] Figures 3A - 3G depict a method of applying an exemplary bandage 100 to a finger in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure. The components of bandage 100 are described with respect to figures 1A, IB, and 2 herein. The bandage may generally comprise a center segment 104, a first extension 102, a second extension 106, a first end portion 140, a center proximal portion 120, a center distal portion 110, a second end portion 130, a tab 130, and a finger placement indicator 150. The bandage 100 may be packaged in sterile packaging generally known in the art. The adhesive portions present at the center proximal portion 120 and the center distal portion 110 of the center segment 104, may be covered with a removable backing, or the like, wherein the user would have to remove the backing to apply the bandage. Backings for adhesive sections are generally known in the art. A user's hand 250 and finger 200 is shown for purposes of demonstration. It is contemplated that a bandage 100 in accordance with exemplary embodiments may be applied to other extremities using the same or similar methods.

[0054] In accordance with exemplary embodiments, to apply the bandage 100, the user may first remove the bandage 100 from its packaging, and remove any backing in place over the adhesive portions disposed on the wound contact layer of the center segment 104 in the center distal portion 110, or the like. The user may then orient his or her finger on the finger placement indicator 150 on the wound contact layer of the center segment 104. The finger placement indicator 150 may comprise an image, guidelines, or an indicia of where the user should place and/ or align his or her finger on the wound contact layer, the layer of the bandage 100 shown in Figure 3A. By placing the user's finger on the finger placement indicator 150, the user also places their finger on the adhesive disposed in the center distal portion 110, thereby securing the center distal portion 110 to the user' s fingertip (the distal portion of the palmar surface of the finger). After the center distal portion 110 is secured to the user' s fingertip, the user may then begin to fold down the center segment 104 to protect the dorsal portion of the user' s finger 200.

[0055] Referring now to Figure 3B, the user rotates the center proximal portion 120 of the center segment 104 in the direction of arrow D, bringing the center proximal portion 120 into contact with the dorsal surface of the user's finger 200. An adhesive portion disposed on the center proximal portion 120 is then applied to the dorsal surface of the user's finger 200, thereby securing the center segment 104 to the user's finger 200. The portion of the bandage 100 in contact with the user's finger 200 is the wound contact layer, which may comprise 70 - 95% sterile bandage material, or the like. When the adhesive disposed on the center proximal portion 120 of the bandage 100 is secured to the dorsal portion of the finger 200, the user may then begin to secure the extensions 102, 106 around the finger 200 to further secure the bandage 100.

[0056] Referring now to Figure 3C, the user may wrap the second extension 106 around the distal portion of the user' s finger 200, in the direction of arrow E, or the like. The second end portion 130 may have a hook fastening portion disposed thereon (via a tab 132 or without a tab). The second end portion 130 or a tab 132 may be brought into contact with the back surface of the bandage 100. The back surface of the bandage may comprise loop material or material capable of coupling with hook fasteners disposed on the second end portion 130, or the like.

[0057] Referring to Figure 3D, the second extension 106 is completely wrapped around the distal portion of the user's finger 200 and the second end portion 130 is secured to the back surface of the bandage 100, at a tightness level selected by the user. The user may then begin securing the first extension 102 to the user's finger 200 my rotating the first end portion 140 in the direction of arrow F. The first extension 102 may then be wrapped around the user's finger 200, thereby further securing the bandage 100 to the user's finger 200 and providing additional protection for the wound under the wound contact layer.

[0058] Referring now to Figure 3E, the user continues to wrap the first end portion 140 of the first extension 102 around the user's finger 200 in the direction of arrow G, until hook fasteners on the wound contact layer disposed on the first end portion come into contact with the back surface of the bandage 100 and the tightness of the bandage is acceptable to the user. In exemplary embodiments, when the user completes the process of wrapping the first extension 102 around the finger and securing the first end portion 140 to the back surface of the bandage 100, or the like, the process of securing the bandage to the finger 200 of the user is complete.

[0059] Referring now to Figures 3F and 3G, the bandage 100 is shown fully secured to the finger 200 of the user. As can be seen from Figure 3F, the bandage 100 may completely cover the dorsal side of the finger 200 of the user. The dorsal side of the finger 200 of the user is where many digital ulcers, wounds, and/ or the like typically occur. As can be seen in Figure 3G, the spacing between the first extension 102 and the second extension 106 creates a gap 160 over the medial portion of the finger 200 on the dorsal side, thereby enabling the user to more easily use the finger 200 for common tasks, and decreasing the likelihood the bandage will pull on the skin surrounding the wound and/ or ulcers, thereby interrupting the healing process. When the bandage 100 is in place, it may be removed by reversing the process and removing the extensions 102, 106. The bandage 100 may then be reapplied after it is removed, thereby saving the user money on the multiple bandages that were previously necessary to complete the same task.

[0060] It will be understood that exemplary embodiments of the present invention set forth herein may be operated in a sequence different from a sequence illustrated or described herein. Likewise, in the case in which it is described herein that a method includes a series of steps, a sequence of these steps suggested herein is not necessarily a sequence in which these steps may be executed. That is, any described step may be omitted and/ or any other step that is not described herein may be added to the method.

[0061] A term "connected" used herein is defined as being directly or indirectly connected mechanically. Here, objects described as being "adjacent to" each other may physically contact each other, be close to each other, or be in the same general range or region, in a context in which the above phrase is used. In addition, terms used in the present disclosure are for explaining exemplary embodiments rather than limiting the present invention. In the present disclosure, a singular form includes a plural form unless explicitly described to the contrary. Components, steps, operations, and/ or elements mentioned by terms "comprise" and/or "comprising" used in the disclosure do not exclude the existence or addition of one or more other components, steps, operations, and/ or elements. [0062] Hereinabove, the present invention has been described with reference to exemplary embodiments thereof. All exemplary embodiments and conditional illustrations disclosed in the present disclosure have been described to intend to assist in the understanding of the principle and the concept of the present invention by those skilled in the art to which the present invention pertains. Therefore, it will be understood by those skilled in the art to which the present invention pertains that the present invention may be implemented in modified forms without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention. Therefore, exemplary embodiments disclosed herein should be considered in an illustrative aspect rather than a restrictive aspect. The scope of the present invention should be defined by the claims rather than the above-mentioned description, and equivalents to the claims should be interpreted to fall within the present invention. Accordingly, bandages 100 in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure may provide people suffering from digital ulcers, or the like, a true enhancement to current bandages.

[0063] While the foregoing is directed to embodiments of the present invention, other and further embodiments of the invention may be devised without departing from the basic scope thereof. It is also understood that various embodiments described herein may be utilized in combination with any other embodiment described, without departing from the scope contained herein. In addition, embodiments of the present invention are further scalable for different uses, as particular applications may require.

Claims

What is claimed is:

1. A bandage for an extremity, the bandage comprising:

a center segment for covering a surface of the extremity;

at least one extension extending outward from the center segment, the at least one extension for securing the bandage to the extremity by wrapping around the center segment;

wherein the at least one extension comprises a fastener for attaching to the back surface of the bandage.

2. The bandage of claim 1, the bandage further comprising:

a wound contact layer comprising an absorbent material;

a securing layer of flexible material for securing the bandage to the extremity; and

a padding layer disposed between the wound contact layer and the securing layer.

3. The bandage of claim 2, further comprising a pocket shaped to receive additional padding.

4. The bandage of claim 1, wherein the fastener is a hook fastener.

5. The bandage of claim 1, wherein the fastener is an adhesive.

6. The bandage of claim 1, further comprising two extensions, each extension extending perpendicularly outward from the center segment in different directions.

7. The bandage of claim 1, wherein the center segment comprises a center proximal portion for attaching to the proximal portion of the extremity having an adhesive and a center distal portion having an adhesive for attaching to the distal portion of the extremity.

8. The bandage of claim 7, wherein the center proximal portion and center distal portion comprise an adhesive for attaching the bandage to the extremity.

9. The bandage of claim 7, wherein the adhesive is a silicone adhesive.

10. The bandage of claim 1, wherein the back surface of the bandage is adapted to couple with hook fasteners; and

wherein the at least one extension comprises an end portion furthest away from the center segment, the end portion comprising a hook fastener for coupling with the back surface of the bandage.

11. The bandage of claim 1, wherein the at least one extension is disposed perpendicular to the center segment.

12. A bandage for a finger, the bandage comprising:

a center segment for covering a surface of the finger;

a first extension extending perpendicularly outward from the center segment, the first extension for securing the bandage to the finger by wrapping around a proximal portion of the finger and the center segment;

a second extension extending perpendicularly outward from the center segment on an opposite side of the center segment than the first extension, the second extension for securing the bandage to the finger by wrapping around a distal portion of the finger and the center segment;

wherein the first extension and second extension comprise a fastener for attaching to the back surface of the bandage.

13. The bandage of claim 12, the bandage further comprising:

a wound contact layer comprising an absorbent material susceptible to sterilization;

14. The bandage of claim 12, wherein the fastener is a hook fastener.

15. The bandage of claim 12, wherein the fastener is an adhesive.

16. The bandage of claim 12, wherein the center segment comprises a center proximal portion for attaching to the proximal portion of the finger on one end and a center distal portion for attaching to the distal portion of the finger on a second end.

17. The bandage of claim 16, wherein the center proximal portion and center distal portion comprise an adhesive for attaching the bandage to the finger.

18. The bandage of claim 17, wherein the adhesive is a silicone adhesive.

19. The bandage of claim 12, wherein the back surface of the bandage is adapted to couple with hook fasteners; and

wherein the first extension and second extension comprise an end portion furthest away from the center segment, the end portion comprising a hook fastener for coupling with the back surface of the bandage.

20. The bandage of claim 12, wherein the center segment has a height of 95 mm and a width of 20 mm;

wherein the first extension has a height of 95mm and a width of 15 mm; and wherein the second extension has a height of 95mm and a width of 25mm.