AU2015200161B2 - Reduced-pressure treatment systems with reservoir control - Google Patents
Reduced-pressure treatment systems with reservoir control Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- AU2015200161B2 AU2015200161B2 AU2015200161A AU2015200161A AU2015200161B2 AU 2015200161 B2 AU2015200161 B2 AU 2015200161B2 AU 2015200161 A AU2015200161 A AU 2015200161A AU 2015200161 A AU2015200161 A AU 2015200161A AU 2015200161 B2 AU2015200161 B2 AU 2015200161B2
- Authority
- AU
- Australia
- Prior art keywords
- pressure
- reduced
- signal
- supply
- reservoir
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Active
Links
- 238000000034 method Methods 0.000 claims abstract description 42
- 230000008878 coupling Effects 0.000 claims description 26
- 238000010168 coupling process Methods 0.000 claims description 26
- 238000005859 coupling reaction Methods 0.000 claims description 26
- 230000002596 correlated effect Effects 0.000 claims description 23
- 230000001276 controlling effect Effects 0.000 claims description 7
- 238000012544 monitoring process Methods 0.000 claims description 7
- 230000007423 decrease Effects 0.000 claims description 6
- 208000036366 Sensation of pressure Diseases 0.000 claims description 3
- 239000012530 fluid Substances 0.000 abstract description 92
- 238000004891 communication Methods 0.000 abstract description 44
- 238000012384 transportation and delivery Methods 0.000 abstract description 30
- 210000001519 tissue Anatomy 0.000 description 30
- 239000000463 material Substances 0.000 description 20
- 206010052428 Wound Diseases 0.000 description 19
- 208000027418 Wounds and injury Diseases 0.000 description 18
- 239000006260 foam Substances 0.000 description 13
- 238000007789 sealing Methods 0.000 description 9
- 210000002615 epidermis Anatomy 0.000 description 6
- 229920001971 elastomer Polymers 0.000 description 5
- 230000008569 process Effects 0.000 description 5
- 239000000853 adhesive Substances 0.000 description 3
- 230000001070 adhesive effect Effects 0.000 description 3
- 239000000806 elastomer Substances 0.000 description 3
- 230000002209 hydrophobic effect Effects 0.000 description 3
- 238000004519 manufacturing process Methods 0.000 description 3
- 230000001105 regulatory effect Effects 0.000 description 3
- 230000004044 response Effects 0.000 description 3
- 239000000126 substance Substances 0.000 description 3
- 208000034423 Delivery Diseases 0.000 description 2
- 239000004820 Pressure-sensitive adhesive Substances 0.000 description 2
- 238000013459 approach Methods 0.000 description 2
- 230000008901 benefit Effects 0.000 description 2
- 230000001143 conditioned effect Effects 0.000 description 2
- 230000003247 decreasing effect Effects 0.000 description 2
- 238000010586 diagram Methods 0.000 description 2
- 210000000416 exudates and transudate Anatomy 0.000 description 2
- 230000037361 pathway Effects 0.000 description 2
- -1 polybutadteue Polymers 0.000 description 2
- 229920001296 polysiloxane Polymers 0.000 description 2
- 239000011148 porous material Substances 0.000 description 2
- 230000009467 reduction Effects 0.000 description 2
- 239000005060 rubber Substances 0.000 description 2
- 239000011800 void material Substances 0.000 description 2
- YFVKHKCZBSGZPE-UHFFFAOYSA-N 1-(1,3-benzodioxol-5-yl)-2-(propylamino)propan-1-one Chemical compound CCCNC(C)C(=O)C1=CC=C2OCOC2=C1 YFVKHKCZBSGZPE-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 1
- 235000008733 Citrus aurantifolia Nutrition 0.000 description 1
- VGGSQFUCUMXWEO-UHFFFAOYSA-N Ethene Chemical compound C=C VGGSQFUCUMXWEO-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 1
- 239000005977 Ethylene Substances 0.000 description 1
- 229920000181 Ethylene propylene rubber Polymers 0.000 description 1
- 244000043261 Hevea brasiliensis Species 0.000 description 1
- 229920000459 Nitrile rubber Polymers 0.000 description 1
- 239000004721 Polyphenylene oxide Substances 0.000 description 1
- 229920001247 Reticulated foam Polymers 0.000 description 1
- 235000011941 Tilia x europaea Nutrition 0.000 description 1
- NIXOWILDQLNWCW-UHFFFAOYSA-N acrylic acid group Chemical group C(C=C)(=O)O NIXOWILDQLNWCW-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 1
- 230000003213 activating effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 230000004075 alteration Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000004458 analytical method Methods 0.000 description 1
- 239000004599 antimicrobial Substances 0.000 description 1
- 230000009286 beneficial effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 210000000988 bone and bone Anatomy 0.000 description 1
- 229920005549 butyl rubber Polymers 0.000 description 1
- 230000008859 change Effects 0.000 description 1
- 210000004207 dermis Anatomy 0.000 description 1
- 230000002500 effect on skin Effects 0.000 description 1
- 230000005489 elastic deformation Effects 0.000 description 1
- 239000013536 elastomeric material Substances 0.000 description 1
- 238000005516 engineering process Methods 0.000 description 1
- 239000011888 foil Substances 0.000 description 1
- 239000000499 gel Substances 0.000 description 1
- 230000002706 hydrostatic effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 208000015181 infectious disease Diseases 0.000 description 1
- 210000003041 ligament Anatomy 0.000 description 1
- 239000004571 lime Substances 0.000 description 1
- 239000007788 liquid Substances 0.000 description 1
- 235000015250 liver sausages Nutrition 0.000 description 1
- 238000005259 measurement Methods 0.000 description 1
- 239000012528 membrane Substances 0.000 description 1
- 210000003205 muscle Anatomy 0.000 description 1
- 229920003052 natural elastomer Polymers 0.000 description 1
- 229920001194 natural rubber Polymers 0.000 description 1
- 206010033675 panniculitis Diseases 0.000 description 1
- 230000002093 peripheral effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 230000035699 permeability Effects 0.000 description 1
- 229920000728 polyester Polymers 0.000 description 1
- 229920000570 polyether Polymers 0.000 description 1
- 229920001195 polyisoprene Polymers 0.000 description 1
- 229920001021 polysulfide Polymers 0.000 description 1
- 239000005077 polysulfide Substances 0.000 description 1
- 150000008117 polysulfides Polymers 0.000 description 1
- 230000000630 rising effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 229910052709 silver Inorganic materials 0.000 description 1
- 239000004332 silver Substances 0.000 description 1
- 229920003048 styrene butadiene rubber Polymers 0.000 description 1
- 210000004304 subcutaneous tissue Anatomy 0.000 description 1
- 238000001356 surgical procedure Methods 0.000 description 1
- 210000002435 tendon Anatomy 0.000 description 1
- 230000002792 vascular Effects 0.000 description 1
- 230000000007 visual effect Effects 0.000 description 1
Abstract
A reduced-pressure system for delivering reduced pressure for medical purposes to a desired site and to receive fluids in one instance includes a reservoir (224) having an interior space (230) operable to contain the fluids. A reduced-pressure delivery conduit (222) is placed in fluid communication with the interior space (230) for delivering the reduced pressure to the desired site. A source conduit (236) and a pressure sensor conduit (246) are placed in fluid communication with the interior space (230). A pressure sensor (246) is placed in fluid communication with the pressure sensor conduit (242). A reduced-pressure source (248) is placed in fluid communication with the source conduit. A reduced- pressure control (260) unit is associated with the pressure sensor (254) and the reduced-pressure source (248) and is operable to receive pressure data from the pressure sensor and supply data from the reduced- pressure source and to determine when a reservoir-full/blockage condition exists. Other systems and methods are presented. Figure 2A D m Vt, w
Description
TITLE OF THE INVENTION
REDUCED-PRESSURE TREATMENT SYSTEMS WITH RESERVOIR
CONTROL
CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] The present invention claims the benefit, under 35 U.S.C. § 119(e), of the filing of U.S. Provisional Patent Application serial number 61/087,377, entitled "A Reduced-Pressure Treatment System with Reservoir Control," filed August 8, 2008, which is incorporated herein by reference for all purposes.
BACKGROUND
[0002] The present invention relates generally to medical treatment systems and devices, and in more particular embodiments, to reduced-pressure treatment systems with reservoir control.
[0002a] Any discussion of the prior art throughout the specification should in no way be considered as an admission that such prior art is widely known or forms part of common general knowledge in the field.
[0003] The treatment of wounds is at times problematic. Proper care is required to minimize the possibility of infection and, preferably , to help stabilize the wound. Proper care typically involves keeping the wound clean and dry. Exudate from the wound is often removed and held away from the wound.
[0004] In recent times, reduced pressure has been used to help treat wounds and remove fluids including exudate. In many instances, reduced pressure has been applied with a negative pressure device that includes a foam pad placed on or in the wound and fluidly coupled to a reduced-pressure source. The reduced-pressure source typically has involved a vacuum pump that when activated delivers reduced pressure to the foam pad such that fluid is removed from the wound through the foam pad and transported through a tube to a fluid reservoir, such as a canister. The reservoir collects and holds the fluids removed from operation of the treatment system. When the reservoir is full of removed fluid, the reservoir is emptied and reengaged to the system or replaced. Efforts have been made to alert the patient when the reservoir is full.
BRIEF SUMMARY 10005) Shortcomings with certain assets of reduced -pressure treatment systems and systems for alerting a patient that a reservoir is fail are addressed by the present invention as shown arid described in a variety of illustrative embodiments herein. According to at illustrative embodiment, a reduced-pressure treatment system tor treating a tissue site on a patient includes a manifold member tor placing proximate the tissue site» an over-drape for providing a fluid seal over the manifold member and the patient, and a reduced-pressure subsystem for delivering reduced pressure to the over-drape. The red ueed~p.ressure subsystem includes a reservoir having an interior space operable to contain fluids, a reduced-pressure delivery conduit in fluid eommemcaipn with tire interior space for delivering reduced pressure to the over-drape, a source conduit in fluid communication with the interior space, a pressure sensor conduit in fluid communication with the Interior space, and a pressure sensor in fluid communication with the pressure sensor conduit. The raduced-pressuresubsystem further includes a reduced-pressure source in fluid Communication with foe source Conduit and operable to deli ver reduced, pressure to foe source conduit, and a reduced^pressure control unit associated with foe pressure sensor and reduced-pressure source. The reduced-pressure control unit Is operable to receive pressure data from the pressure sensor and supply data from the reduced-pressure source mid to determine when a reservoir-fuU/%kicl:age condition emsis< |0086J According to anofoer illustrative embodiment a reduced-pressure system for providing reduced pressure and for receiving fluids includes a reservoir having an interior space ojpimbte to contain the fluids, a reduced-pressure delivery condnit in fluid communication with psesp»!es a source eonduit in fluid communication with foe interior space, and a pressure sensor conduit in fluid Commtmlcatlda:'f^:fi^:t3|iteft0r space. Ifoe reduced-pmssure system further Includes a pressure sensor in fluid eournmnication with the pressure sensor conduit and a leduced-pressure source in fluid communicaion vdth the source conduit and operable' to deliver reduced pressure to the source conduit lire reduced-pressure system also includes a redueed-*pres§ure control unit associated with the pressure sensor and tsdimed-pressure source that is operable to receive pressure data from the pressure sensor and supply data from foe reduced-pressure source and to determine when a reservoir«foll/blockage condition exists. £900?! According to another illustrative embodiment,, a redacod-prpsi»® system includes a interior space and a reduced-pressure source for delivering redtvced pressure. Tte ^dweed-pressiire soince is fluidly eonpled to tlte interior space of the reservoirandls to deliver a reduced pressure to the interior space, The reduced-pressure source is responsive to a control signal. The reduced-pressure system further includes a supply sensor for measuring a supply rate of reduced pressure and operable to develop a signal 1 indicative of the supply rate, a pressure sensor conduit fluidly coupled to the Interior space, and a pressure sensor in fluid communication with the pressure sensor conduit. The pressure sensor is operable to develop a signal P indicative of a pressure level in the pressure sensor conduit proximate the pressure sensor. The reduced-pressure system thither includes a reduced-pressure control unit coupled to the supply sensor, pressure sensor and the reduced-pressure source. The reduced-pressure control unit is opemhle to receive signal I from the supply sensor and signal P from the pressure sensor and to adjust the control signal to cause th^'^need-pressurp-Shtst^ to provide a desired pressure to the reservoir and to shutdown when die: reseivoir is full. |0WJ According to another illustrative embodiment, amethod of detecting a ill status of a reservoir for use in treating a patient with a reduced-pressure treatment system includes the steps of generatihg reduced pressure ih fluid communication with die reduced-pressure treatment system, applying the reduced pressure to a tissue site, collecting fluid from the tissue site in the reservoir, and monitoring a pressure wiriihr the reservoir, Tire method further includes terminating the application of redueed pressure when fee pressure in the reservoir decreases helow· a selected absolute value for specified time interval live reservoir has a pressure sensor conduit in fldld: communicationwith the reservoir and a supply conduit in fluid commameation with the reservoir. The step Of monitoring the pressure within fee reservoir includes mpuitormg the pressure within the pressure sensor condui i,
Pfl#) According fe rmifeer illustrative emlrediment, a method of mmiufacttreing a redneed-pressure system Includes fee rieps of forming a reservoir having an interior space operable to contain fluids and fluidly coupling a reduced-pressure deli very conduit to fee interior space. The reduced-pressure delivery conduit is for deliveringa redueed pressure to a delivery site. The method of manufacturing hsrther includes fluidly coupling a seance conduit to the interior space, fluidly coupling a pressure sensor conduit to the interior space, and fluidly coupling a pressure sensor to tire presume sensor conduit The method may also include providing a reduced-pressure source responsive to a control signal, coupling the reduced-pressure source to the source conduit, and providing a reduced-pressure control unit. The reduced-pressure control unit is operable to receive pressure data from the pressure sensor and supply data from the reduced-pressure source and to determine when a reservoir-full/blockage condition exists.
[0009a] According to a first aspect of the present invention there is provided a reduced-pressure treatment system for treating a tissue site on a patient, the system comprising: a manifold member for placing proximate the tissue site; an over-drape for providing a fluid seal over the manifold member and the patient; a reduced-pressure subsystem for delivering reduced pressure to the over-drape; and wherein the reduced-pressure subsystem comprises: a reservoir having an interior space operable to contain fluids, a reduced-pressure delivery conduit in fluid communication with the interior space for delivering reduced pressure to the over-drape, a source conduit in fluid communication with the interior space, a pressure sensor conduit in fluid communication with the interior space, a pressure sensor in fluid communication with the pressure sensor conduit, a reduced-pressure source in fluid communication with the source conduit and operable to deliver reduced pressure to the source conduit, and a reduced-pressure control unit associated with the pressure sensor and reduced-pressure source, the reduced-pressure control unit operable to receive pressure data from the pressure sensor and supply data from the reduced-pressure source and to determine when a reservoir-full/blockage condition exists.
[0009b] According to a second aspect of the present invention there is provided a reduced-pressure system for providing reduced pressure and for receiving fluids, the reduced-pressure system comprising: a reservoir having an interior space operable to contain the fluids; a reduced-pressure delivery conduit in fluid communication with the interior space for delivering reduced pressure; a source conduit in fluid communication with the interior space; a pressure sensor conduit in fluid communication with the interior space and separate from the source conduit; a pressure sensor in fluid communication with the pressure sensor conduit; a reduced-pressure source in fluid communication with the source conduit and operable to deliver reduced pressure to the source conduit; and a reduced-pressure control unit associated with the pressure sensor and reduced-pressure source, the reduced-pressure control unit operable to receive pressure data from the pressure sensor and supply data from the reduced-pressure source and to determine when a reservoir-full/blockage condition exists.
[0009c] According to a third aspect of the present invention there is provided a reduced-pressure system for supplying reduced pressure for a medical application and receiving a fluid, the system comprising: a reservoir housing that forms an interior space; a reduced-pressure source for delivering reduced pressure, the reduced-pressure source fluidly coupled to the interior space of the reservoir and operable to deliver a reduced pressure to the interior space, wherein the reduced-pressure source is responsive to a control signal; a supply conduit fluidly coupled to the interior space; a supply sensor for measuring a supply rate of reduced pressure delivered by the reduced-pressure source and operable to develop a signal I indicative of reduced pressure made available to the supply conduit; a pressure sensor conduit fluidly coupled to the interior space; a pressure sensor in fluid communication with the pressure sensor conduit, the pressure sensor operable to develop a signal P indicative of a pressure level in the pressure sensor conduit proximate the pressure sensor; and a reduced-pressure control unit coupled to the supply sensor, pressure sensor, and the reduced-pressure source, the reduced-pressure control unit operable to receive signal I from the supply sensor and signal P from the pressure sensor, and to adjust the control signal to cause the reduced-pressures source to provide a desired pressure to the reservoir and to shutdown when the reservoir is full.
[0009d] According to a fourth aspect of the present invention there is provided a method of detecting a fill status of a reservoir for use in treating a patient with a reduced-pressure treatment system, the method comprising the steps of: generating a reduced pressure in fluid communication with the reduced-pressure treatment system; applying the reduced pressure to a tissue site; collecting fluid from the tissue site in the reservoir; monitoring a pressure within the reservoir; wherein the reservoir has a pressure sensor conduit in fluid communication with the reservoir and a supply conduit in fluid communication with the reservoir, and wherein step of monitoring the pressure within the reservoir comprises monitoring pressure within the pressure sensor conduit; and terminating the application of reduced pressure when the pressure in the pressure sensor conduit decreases below a selected absolute value for specified time interval.
[0009e] According to a fifth aspect of the present invention there is provided a method of manufacturing a reduced-pressure system, the method comprising: forming a reservoir having an interior space operable to contain fluids; fluidly coupling a reduced-pressure delivery conduit to the interior space, the reduced- pressure delivery conduit for delivering a reduced pressure to a delivery site; fluidly coupling a source conduit to the interior space, the source conduit for delivering reduced pressure to the interior space; fluidly coupling a pressure sensor conduit to the interior space; fluidly coupling a pressure sensor to the pressure sensor conduit; providing a reduced-pressure source responsive to a control signal; coupling the reduced-pressure source to the source conduit; providing a reduced-pressure control unit operable to receive pressure data from the pressure sensor and supply data from the reduced-pressure source and to determine when a reservoir-full/blockage condition exists; and associating the reduced-pressure control unit with the pressure sensor and reduced-pressure source.
[0009f] According to another aspect of the present invention there is provided a reduced-pressure treatment system for treating a tissue site on a patient, the system comprising: a manifold member for placing proximate the tissue site; an over-drape for providing a fluid seal over the manifold member and the patient; a reduced-pressure subsystem for delivering reduced pressure to the over-drape; and wherein the reduced-pressure subsystem comprises: a reservoir having an interior space operable to contain fluids, a reduced-pressure delivery conduit in fluid communication with the interior space for delivering reduced pressure to the over-drape, a source conduit in fluid communication with the interior space, a pressure sensor conduit in fluid communication with the interior space, a pressure sensor in fluid communication with the pressure sensor conduit, a reduced-pressure source in fluid communication with the source conduit and operable to deliver reduced pressure to the source conduit, a power line coupled to the reduced-pressure source, a power sensor coupled to the power line, the power sensor adapted to measure a supply data signal correlated to a supply rate of reduced pressure, and a reduced-pressure control unit associated with the pressure sensor, the power sensor, and reduced-pressure source, the reduced-pressure control unit operable to: receive a pressure data signal from the pressure sensor, receive the supply data signal from the power sensor, determine when a partial blockage condition, reservoir-full condition, or blockage condition exists based on the pressure data signal and the supply data signal, increase the rate of delivery of reduced pressure if a partial blockage condition exists, and turn off the reduced-pres sure source if a reservoir-full or blockage condition exists.
[0009g] According to another aspect of the present invention there is provided a reduced-pressure system for providing reduced pressure and for receiving fluids, the reduced-pressure system comprising: a reservoir having an interior space operable to contain the fluids; a reduced-pressure delivery conduit in fluid communication with the interior space for delivering reduced pressure; a source conduit in fluid communication with the interior space and adapted to be in fluid communication with a regulated wall suction unit; a pressure sensor conduit in fluid communication with the interior space and separate from the source conduit; a pressure sensor in fluid communication with the pressure sensor conduit; a supply sensor adapted to measure a supply data signal indicative of a valve opening on the regulated wall suction unit; and a reduced-pressure control unit associated with the pressure sensor and the supply sensor; wherein the reduced-pressure control unit is operable to receive a pressure data signal from the pressure sensor, receive the supply data signal from the supply sensor, and to determine when a reservoir-full condition or a blockage condition exists based on the pressure data signal and the supply data signal.
[0009h] According to another aspect of the present invention there is provided a reduced-pressure system for supplying reduced pressure for a medical application and receiving a fluid, the system comprising: a reservoir housing that forms an interior space; a reduced-pressure source for delivering reduced pressure, the reduced-pressure source fluidly coupled to the interior space of the reservoir and operable to deliver a reduced pressure to the interior space, wherein the reduced-pressure source is responsive to a control signal; a source conduit fluidly coupled to the interior space; a power line coupled to the reduced-pressure source; a supply sensor coupled to the power line, the supply sensor operable to develop a signal I indicative of reduced pressure supplied to the source conduit; a pressure sensor conduit fluidly coupled to the interior space; a pressure sensor in fluid communication with the pressure sensor conduit, the pressure sensor operable to develop a signal P indicative of a pressure level in the pressure sensor conduit proximate the pressure sensor; and a reduced-pressure control unit coupled to the supply sensor, pressure sensor, and the reduced-pressure source, the reduced-pressure control unit operable to receive signal I from the supply sensor and signal P from the pressure sensor, and to adjust the control signal to cause the reduced-pressure source to provide a desired pressure to the reservoir and to shutdown when the reservoir is full.
[0009i] According to another aspect of the present invention there is provided a method of manufacturing a reduced-pressure system, the method comprising: forming a reservoir having an interior space operable to contain fluids; fluidly coupling a reduced-pressure delivery conduit to the interior space, the reduced-pressure delivery conduit for delivering a reduced pressure to a delivery site; fluidly coupling a source conduit to the interior space, the source conduit for delivering reduced pressure to the interior space; fluidly coupling a pressure sensor conduit to the interior space; fluidly coupling a pressure sensor to the pressure sensor conduit; providing a reduced-pressure source responsive to a control signal; coupling the reduced-pressure source to the source conduit; coupling a power line to the reduced-pressure source; coupling a power sensor to the power line, the power sensor adapted to measure a supply data correlated to a supply rate of reduced pressure from the reduced-pressure source; providing a reduced-pressure control unit operable to receive pressure data from the pressure sensor and supply data from the power sensor, and to determine when a reservoir-full condition or a blockage condition exists based on the pressure data and the supply data; and associating the reduced-pressure control unit with the pressure sensor and reduced-pressure source.
[0009j] According to yet another aspect of the present invention, there is provided a method of controlling a reduced-pressure treatment system, the method comprising: coupling a pressure sensor to a reservoir; coupling a supply sensor to a reduced-pressure source; receiving a pressure signal from the pressure sensor, wherein the pressure signal is correlated to reduced pressure in the reservoir; receiving a supply signal from the supply sensor, wherein the supply signal is correlated to a supply rate of reduced pressure to the reservoir; and generating a control signal for the reduced-pressure treatment system based on the pressure signal and the supply signal; wherein the control signal increases the supply rate if a blockage condition exists and terminates a supply of reduced pressure if the pressure signal does not rise in absolute value with an increased supply signal.
[0009k] According to yet another aspect of the present invention, there is provided a method of controlling a reduced-pressure treatment system, the method comprising: coupling a pressure sensor to a reservoir; coupling a supply sensor to a reduced-pressure source; receiving a pressure signal from the pressure sensor correlated to reduced pressure in the reservoir; receiving a supply signal from the supply sensor correlated to a supply rate of reduced pressure to the reservoir; and generating a control signal for the reduced-pressure treatment system based on the pressure signal and the supply signal; wherein generating the control signal comprises identifying a blockage condition if the reduced-pressure source is not able to increase the reduced pressure within the reservoir above a threshold for a predetermined time by increasing the supply rate of reduced pressure. [00091] According to yet another aspect of the present invention, there is provided a reduced-pressure control unit having a microprocessor configured to: monitor a pressure signal correlated to reduced pressure within a reservoir; receive a supply signal from a pressure sensor and correlated to a supply rate of reduced pressure to the reservoir; and generate a control signal based on the pressure signal and the supply signal; wherein the control signal increases the supply rate if a blockage condition exists and terminates a supply of reduced pressure if the pressure signal does not rise in absolute value with an increased supply signal.
[0009m] According to yet another aspect of the present invention, there is provided a method of controlling a reduced-pressure treatment system, the method comprising: monitoring a pressure signal from a pressure sensor and correlated to reduced pressure within a reservoir; receiving a supply signal correlated to a supply rate of reduced pressure; determining if the pressure signal decreases below a selected absolute value for a specified time interval; and terminating a supply of reduced pressure using a control signalif the pressure signal does not rise in absolute value with an increased supply signal.
[0009n] According to yet another aspect of the present invention, there is provided a reduced-pressure control unit adapted for coupling with a pressure sensor, a supply sensor, and reduced-pressure source, the reduced-pressure control unit operable to receive pressure data from the pressure sensor and supply data from the supply sensor, to determine when a reservoir-full or blockage condition exists, and to turn off the reduced-pressure source when a reservoir-full or blockage condition exists.
[0009o] It is an object of the present invention to overcome or ameliorate at least one of the disadvantages of the prior art, or to provide a useful alternative.
[0009p] Unless the context clearly requires otherwise, throughout the description and the claims, the words “comprise”, “comprising”, and the like are to be construed in an inclusive sense as opposed to an exclusive or exhaustive sense; that is to say, in the sense of “including, but not limited to”.
[0010] Other features and advantages of the illustrative embodiments will become apparent with reference to the drawings and detailed description that follow.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0011] A more complete understanding of the system, method, and apparatus of the present invention may be obtained by reference to the following Detailed Description when taken in conjunction with the accompanying Drawings wherein: [0012] FIGURE 1 is a schematic, perspective view of an illustrative embodiment of a reduced-pressure treatment system with reservoir control with a portion shown in cross section; [0013] FIGURE 2A is a schematic, diagram with a portion in cross-section of one illustrative embodiment of a reduced-pressure treatment system with reservoir control; [0014] FIGURE 2B and 2C are schematic, elevational, cross-sectional views of a portion of the reduced-pressure system of FIG. 2A; [0015] FIGURE 3 is a representative graph presenting illustrative operational parameters of a reduced-pressure treatment system according to one illustrative embodiment; [0016] FIGURE 4 is a schematic diagram of an illustrative embodiment of a reduced-pressure control unit; and [0017] FIGURE 5 is an illustrative flow chart of one possible approach to the logic incorporated into a reduced-pressure control unit in one illustrative embodiment. rnimm description of the preferred embodiment |0ίί01 In the following detailed description of the preferred embodiments, reference is made that form a part hereof, and in which is shown by way of
IlluHratipn speclik· preferred embodiments,»* which the Invention may be practiced. These embodiments are described in sufficient detail to enable those skilled In die at to practice tire Inventions and it is anderstood that other embodiment may be utilixed and that logical structural, mechanical, electrical, aid chemical changes may be made without departing from the spirit or scope of the invention. To avoid detail not necessary to enable those skilled In the art to practice the invention, the description may omit certain information known to those skilled in the art. The following detailed description is, therefore, not to be taken in a limiting sense, and the scope of the present invention is .defined only by the appended, claims. 108101 Referring to FIGURE 1, an illustrative embodiment of a redneed-pressure treatment system 100 for treating a tissue she 106, e ,g„ a wound 104. The tissue site 106 may be the bodily tissue of any tissue,, adipose ilssne, muscle tissue, dermal tissue, vascular fegsue*· coisa^ye-tls^^cs^k^ tendons, ligaments, of any other tissue, Unless otherwise indicated, as used herein, “or” does not require mmual exclusivity, The wound 104 may take numerous possibie shapes and degrees- hut in this illustrative example is as from a surgical procedure, through epidermis 108, dermis 110, and into a portion of the subcutaneous tissue I 12. In this example, the reduced-pressure treatment system 100 Is shown applied on top of the epidermis 108 and over the wobhd 104, bdi it is to be appreciated that the reduced-pressure treatment system 1.00 could be used with an open wound and could be placed, in part, below the epidermis in a wound bed. The reduced-pressure treatment sytteijh 100 may include a manifold member 114, a sealing subsystem 116,.-and a reduced-pressure subsystem 126. The reduced-pressure treatment system less money than conventional systems, achieve greater mechanical reliability, and operate in nnddple orientations without, false alarms. !§§20J In oas illusfrativc embodiment, the manifold member ! 14 is made from a porous and permeable foam-like material add, more particularly, a reticulated, open-cell polyurofoane or polyether foam that allows good permeability of wound fluids while under a reduced pressure. One such foam: material that has been used is the T AC® Granufoan^Dfossing available from Kinetic Concepts Inc, (KCI) of San Antonio, Texas. Any material or combination of materials may he used for the manifold material provided that the manifold material is operable to distribute foe reduced pressure. The tend AnanifokT as nsed herein generally to&p to a substance or structure that is provided to assist in applying reduced pressure to, delivering Holds to, or removing .fluids from a tissue site. A manifold typically includes a plurality of flow channels or pathways that distribute fluids provided to and removed from the area of tissue around the manifold. The plurality oiftow pathways may be interconnected. Examples of manifolds may include, without limitation, devices that have structural elements arranged to form flow chapels, cellfoar foam, such as open-cell foam, porous tissue collecions, and liquids, gels mid foam include or cum to include flow channels, The manifold material may also he a combination or layering of materials. For example, a first manifold layer of hydropMlie foam may he disposed adjacentto a second manifold layer of hydrophobic foam to form the manifold member 114. ΡΘ21] The reticulated pores of the flfonufoam® material, that are in the range of about 400 to 600 microns, are helpful in ca^h^i'dP.^mPifoid ihtoetien* iut again o ther materials may be used. A nnderial with a higher, or lower, density (smaller pore slae) than Gran&foam# material may he desirable In some situations, The manifold member 114 may also be a reticulated foam that is later Mtedfo;Md0t|iisS'0f about 1/3 its original thickness, Among the many |i|^h3l9'^ateriids,:^Trillo^^.wy%'.u®ed: Orannh:>ami> material or a Fnamex technical foam .(www.f0a1ne5t-.com), In some instances it may he desirable to add ionie silver to the foam in a mlerobonding process or to add other substances to the manifold memher such as antimicrobial agents. The manifold member 114 could be a hio-absorbable or bio-mert material or an anisotropic material |®f)22j The sealing subsystem 116 includes an over-drape l it, or drape, The over-drape 118 covers the manifold member 114 and extends past a peripheral edge 121 of the manifold member 114 to form a drape extension 320, The drape extension 120 may he sealed against the patient’s epidermis 108 by a sealing apparatus 122, such ^ a pressure-sensitive adhesive 124, The sealing apparatus 122 may take himterohs forms, Mich as an adhesive se&lmg tape, or drape tape or strip; double-sided shape tape* adhesive 124: paste; hydrocolioid; hydrogeh or other sealing device. If a tape is used, the tape may be formed of the same material as the over-drape 118 with a prempplied, prtosiue-sensittve adhesive. The pressure-sensitive adhesive 124 may be applied©»':» second, patlent-tacmg skle of dmpe extension 120. The pressure-sensitive adh^ive\i24.j^yi^ia;s#s»l®^-fliiid seal between dm over-drape 118 and the epidermis 108 of the patient “Fluid seal,” or “seal,” means a seal adequate to hold reduced pressure at a desired site given the particular reduced-pressure subsystem involved. Before the over-drape ί I S is secured to the patient, foe pfessme-sensitlve adhesi ve 124 may have removable strips covering foe Mheslw424, 10023] Theever-drape 110 may he m. etastomerie material that provides a Quid seal. The sealing; member may, for example, be an impermeable or semi-permeable, elastomeric material. “Biastomerlo5’ means having foe properties of an elastomer and generally refers to a polymeric material that has rabher-iike properties. More specifically, most elastomers have elongation itees greater than 100% and a significant amount of resilience. The resilience of a. material .refers to the materials ability' to recover from an elastic deformation. Examples of elastomers may include, hut are not limited to, natural rubbers, polyisoprene, styrene butadiene rubber, eMoroprene rubber, polybutadteue, nitrile rubber, butyl rubber, ethylene propylene rubber, ethylene propyl one dtene nmnomer, cfoorosulfonated polyefoylffiae, polysulfide rubber, polyutetbane, EVA film, co-polyester, and silicones. Specific examples of seallhg member materials include a silicone drape, 3M Tegaden»^ drape* acrylic drape such as one available from Avery Dennison, or an incise drape, |0024| The redueefopressure subsystem 12S includes a mdueed-pmssum source 128, which may take many difiereni forms. The mdueed-pressere source 128 provides mdueed pressam as a pate of tho mdtteed'pfos^teiretemefo system 100. The reduced-pressure source 12$ may be any device for supplymg a mdneed preasom, such as a vacuum pump, wail suction, or other source. While foe amount arte natum of reduced pressure applied to a tissue site will typically vary according m foe applicteion, foe reduced pressure will typically be between -5 mm Eg and -500 mm Hg mid more typically between -100 mm lig and -300 mm Hg.
[002S| As used herein, fo^uced pressure^ generally mfers to a pressure less than the ambient pressure at a tissue site 106 teat is being subjected to treatment la most eases, this reduced pressure will be less than the atmospheric pressure at which the patient is located, Alternatively, the reduced pressure may he less than a hydrostatie pressure at foe tissue site. Reduced pressure may Imfraily^ generate fluid flow in the manifoldmember 114, reduced-pressure conduit 148, arte proximate foe tissue site 106. As the hydrostatic pressure around foe tissue site 106 approaches the desired reduced pressure, the flow may subside, and foe reduced pressure may be maintained, Unless ofoerwise indicated, values of pressure stated herein are gauge pressures, 'the reduced pressure delivered may be constant or varied (patterned or random) and may be delivered continuously or intehnlttentiy. Although the terms -'vacuum** and “negative pressure” may be used to describe die pressure applied to the tissue site, the actual pressure applied to the tissue site may be more than the pressure normally associated with a complete vacuum. Consistent with the use herein, an increase in reduced pressure or vacuum pressure typically raters to a relati ve reduction in absolute pressure. 10026] In the illustrative embodiment of FIGURE 1, the reduced-pressure source 128 is shown having a reservoir region 131, or canister region, with windows 138 providing a visual indication of the level of fluid within reservoir 150. An interposed membrane filter, such as hydrophobic or oleophobic filter, may be interspersed between a reduced-pressure delivery conduit, or tufeiug, 148 and the reduced-pressure source 128. 10027] The reduced-pressure source 128 has a display 130, which may include an alarm light or Information indicator 132, a battery light or indicator 134, a reservoir fulbblocked light or indicator 136. The reduced-pressure source 128 may also Include a power switch 140 and a speaker 142 tor providing an audible alarm, in some embodiments, a keypad for entry of desired pressure or other information may also be provided. As described further below, die reduced-pressure subsystem 126 includes a reduced-pressure control unit analogous to a reduced-pressure control unit 260 in FIGURE 2A, [8028] The reduced pressure developed by the reduee-pressure source 128 is delivered through the reduced-pressure delivery conduit 148 to a reduced-pressure interface 144, which may fee an elbow port 146. In one illustrative embodiment, the port 146 is a TRA€# technology port available from Kinetic Concepts Inc. of San Antonio, Texas, The reduced-pressure interface 144 allows the reduced pressure to fee delivered to the sealing subsystem 116 and realized, within an interior portion of sealing subsystem 116. In this illustrative embodiment, the elbow port 146 extends through the over-drape 118 and into the manifold member 114« |0029] In operation, the reduced-pressure treatment, system 100 is applied to treat the tissue site 106, e.g., the wound 104, by placing the manifold member 114 approximate wound 104, providing a fluid seal over the manifold member 114 and a portion of the epidermis 108 by using the sealing subsystem Π6, attaching the reduced-pressure subsystem 126 and activating the reduced-pressure subsystem 126. The reduced-pressure subsystem 126 delivers reduced pressure to the manifold member 114, which distributes the reduced pressure to the wound site 106 as well as potentially providing other beneficial effects, such as a closing force in some applications when a closing dressing holster Is used. The reduced-pressure subsystem 126 may he used with a wound application as shown, and the reduced-pressure subsystem 126 may also housed with; percutaneous applications, such as applying reduced pressure to a. bone, tissue, or other wound site, In «tiding the reduced-pressure treatment system 10(1,, the reduced-pressure treatment system 100 will continue to apply reduced pressure until the reservoir, or canister, I SO of the redtseed-pressure source 128 becomes full. Because, it is desirable to minimize any breafes in the treatment, the status of the reservoir ISO may bevisually monitored through the windows 13&, but it is desirable to have the redueed-pressure subsystem 126 automatically alert the patient when the reservoir 150 is fell or when a blockage has occurred such that reduced pressure is no longer being delivered. It may also he desirable to shutdown the reduced» pressure source 128 when the reservoir ISO is full or Mocked, [0(001 'Referring now primarily to FIGURE 2A, an illustrative embodiment of a reduced-pressure system 200 which may be used as the reduced-pressure subsystem 126 of the redueed-pressore treatmersi system 100 in FIGURE 1 is presen ted , The reduced pressure is provided by;^e'''feduoed“presStiru-syat«fe' 200 and ultimately delivered by a reduced-pressure delivery conduit 222 for medical purposes to a delivery site, e.g,, reduced-pressure interface 144 and tissue site 106 of FIGURE 1, [lie reduced-pressure system 200 includes a reservoir 224 formed with a reservoir housing 226 that defines m interior space 230, Tire reservoir 224 may be any unit for holding fluids, such as a eardster, b^ irnpervioos emfeiope, etc. Proximate a top portion 220 (for the orientation shown with the unit standing parallel to the gravitational field), a number of ports may he formed through the reservoir housing 226, For example, a deli very-conduh port 232, a source port 234, and a sensor port 240 may be formed through dm reservoir housing 226, The mdueed-pmssure delivery conduit 222 interfaces wife the reduced-pressure delivery conduit port 232 such that the (educed-pressuredelivery conduit 222 may be placed in flidd coinmnnlcatlon, or fluidly-coupled, with hie Interior space 230. A source conduit 236 Interfeces with the source port 234 to allow the source cohdaft 236 to be in fluid eonununicaitoa,or fluidly po^ple4' Wife:^:niert^r space 230, Similarly, a pressure sensor conduit 242 Interfaces with the sensor port 240 to allow the pressure sensor conduit 242 to be placed In fluid communication, or fluidly coupled^ with the interior space 230, While the sensor port 240 is shown slightly below the source port 234, It should he noted that these ports 234, 240 may he on. the same vertical level in other embodiments.
[0031 [ The reduced-pressure delivery conduit 222 delivers reduced pressure for medical: purposes and receives fluid, such as exudaief that enter into the Interior space 230, A number of filters, e.g., hydrophobic filters or odor filters^ may be desired On the conduits 222,236^ and 242, For etpasple, the source conduit 236 is shown with a first filter unit 23% and #1« ppsute sensor conduit 242 is shown with a second filter unit 244, While filter units 238 and 244 are shown as single units* it is to be understood that a plurality of filters may make up each filter unit, ptB2) The pressure sensor conduit 242 ptovi^sSitei. space 230 to a pressure sensor 246. The pressure sensor 246 may M any device (or devices) that is capabl e of sensing the pressure in the pressure sensor eonduit 242 and developing a responsive single which may be analog or digital, signal by a communication conduit 247 to the reduced-pressure control unit 260. In an alternative embodiment, the pressure sensor 246 may be or include a pneumatic regulator that is coupled to a reduced» pressure source* e.g., a vacuum pump 248, replated wall suction* mechanical device, or other |I)033) lire source conduit 236 is in fluid eonmiunieatioh withthe interior space 230 and is also in fiuid communication with a redueed-pmssure source, e.g>, the vaeuum |«imp 248. The vitcuum pump 248 works to generate the reduced pressureThat is Introduced into tbe source eonduit 236. In' 'the illustrative embodiment, the %fachumpurnp248 is electriedly powered as indicated by a first power Sine 252, The first power line 252 is electricafiy coupled to a pump power supply 250, The pump power supply 250 may he a battery supply or a conditioned power from another source,: A portion of the first power line 252 may include a power sensor 254 and a current control unit 256. The power sensor 254 may be any device that is used to determine the amount of power being supplied· to the vacuum pump 248. For example, the power sensor 254 may be a current sensor operable to produce a current signal or supply data signal L More generally, the supply dam signal may be produced that provides information on the fate of delivery or attempted delivery of mduced pressure, In one illustrative embodiment, the supply data signal may be the current supplied to a vaehum pump. In another illustrative embodiment, the supply data signal may be a signal indicative of a valve opening on a regulated wall suction unit. Whether a current signal, other power data, or supply data developed, by power ^sensor 254 or Other sensor that measures a signal correlated to a supply rate, the resulting signal 1 Is delivered by a eonunumemion eonduit 255 to the reduced-pressure control unit 260, |0iB4J The reduced-pressure control unit 260 contains circuitry of a mlcroproeessor that· controls fimeitoas within the redueed-pressure system 200. The reduced-pressure control unit 260 receives a pressure signal F if om the communication eonduit 247 and supply data* e.g* signal I, from the communication conduit 255, which is coupled to a sensor, e.g., the power sensor 254. The reduced -pressure control unit 260 determines if the interior space 230 of the reservoir 224 is substantially full or if a conduit 222,236,242 is blocked. If the reduced-pressure control unit 260 determines that the interior space 230 is fell or conduits blocked, the reduced-pressure control unit 260 may send an alarm to a speaker 216 as well as providing an alarm signal to a display milt 204. 1¼ reduced-pressure control unit 260 may also develop a pump control signal PC that is delivered by a communication conduit 261 to the current control unit 256 and may be used to increase the power to the vacuum pump 248 or to reduce or stop the vacuum pump 248. Similarly, if a different reduced pressure source is used, a control signal may be used to adjust the reduced-pressure source. In alternative embodiments, it may be desirable to provide other inputs or data to the reduced-pressure control uuit 260, such as a temperature input that may he used to predict the viscosity of the fluid being captured within the interior space 230 and to further adjust parameters for determining when the reservoir is full, such as the time Interval used. fO03SJ Referring now primarily to FIGURES 2Ά, 2B, 2€, in operation, the reduced-pressure system 200 is initially activated and has unblocked conduits 222,236,242 and an empty interior space 230. Reduced pressure is delivered to the interior space 230 and is transmitted to the reduced-pressure delivery conduit 222 and to a desired site. FIGURE 2A shows this initial state with the reservoir 224 empty. As the reduced pressure is delivered for treatment of a tissue site, e,g., a wound, on a patient, various fluids are typically received through the reduced-pressure delivery conduit 222 and are delivered into the interior space 230 where the fluid collects. FIGURE 2B show's the fluid 258 collecting In a bottom portion of the interior space 230. The reduced-pressure control unit 260 continues to operate the vacuum pump 248 and pressure sensor 246 continues to monitor the pressure experienced within the pressure sensor conduit 242 which typically corresponds to the pressure within the interior space 230. The reduced pressure is monitored to determine that the pressure is within a desired range or at least above a threshold, When, however, the fluid. 258 fills or substantially fills the interior space 230 such that the sensor port 240 becomes covered by the fluid 258, the incompressible nature of the fluid 258 will cause the pressure sensor 246, which is in fluid communication with the interior space 230, to experience a reduction in reduced pressure (a rise in absolute pressure), A remaining void space 259 is shown. p036j In one illustrative emhodimentjf the reduced-pressure control unit 260 determines that, despite increased power or passage of a wait lime, the desired reduced pressure within interior space 230 is below tire desired reduced pressure level, fee reduced-pressure control unit 260 will send an alarm signal or send a pump control signal to the current control unit 256 to shut down vacuum pump 248, The reduced-pressure comrol unit 260 may shut down or send an alarm if the reduced-pressure control unit 260 is unable to increase the reduced pressure (lower the #soIufe pressure) within interior space 230 due to a blockage in one of the conduits 222,. 236,242, Additional examples how the reduced-pressure control unit 260 may operate are provided in connection with FIGURES 3 and 4. {003?! IMerrlng now primarily to FIGURE 3* a schematic graph is presented showing operational parameters that may he used by the reduced-pressure oootrol unit 260 in the reduced-pressure system 200 in FIGURES 2A-2G with respect to pressure and power. Power is represented by the current in this illustrative embodiment, lire graph has an abscissa axis 302 and an ordinate axis 304, lire abscissa axis 302 shows a relative measnrenient of the power provided to the vacuum pump 248 In the redueed-pressure system 200. The ordinate axis 304 represents the pressure measured by the pressure sensor 246 aid that generally corresponds to tire reduced pressure delivered into the interior space 230 of the reservoir 224, 100381 Referring to FIGURE 2A and FIGURE 3, just before the reduced-pressure system 200 is activated, the reduced-pressure system 200 may be represented ou the graph of FIGURE 3 at the first point 306~~~no reduced pressure (gauge pressure) and so power. Once activated, the vacuum pump 248 runs until the reduced pressure exceeds the selected level A ami is then turned off The selected level A may be pre-set or may be entered by a user or healthcare provider. Thus, before the vacdum phuip 248 Is temporarily deactivated, the reduced pressure may he represented: at a second point 308, The second point 308 shows that the reduced pressure has now exceeded the threshold selected level A and shows that the vacuum pump 248 is currently operating because of the positive cnirent measurement os the abscissa.
At this dme, the reduced-pressure control unit 260 can tell the vaenum pump 248 to shut down, such as by sending a pump control signal PC to the currentdohtro! unit 256. The vacuum pump 248 may renrain off until the pressure 'sensor .246 determines that the reduced pressure has decreased belowthe threshold level A or some other set level, At that time, the vacuum pump 248 will be reactivated to again restore the pressure measmed by the pressure sensor 244, which ^i^iy':eea*^50rids wdtl* the pressure within interior space 230* to agmn exceed level A, $01¾ Ip one illustrative embedMent, if the source conduit 236 begins to experience parfialblocidng, the previously used level of reduced pressure supplied by vacuum pump 248 may Pot: be able in cause the reduced pressure In the interior space 230 (as measured 1« the pressure seMor conduit 242 by tbe pressure sensor 244) to exceed the threshold level A. Before concluding foatihe reservoir* or canister* 224 is full and shutting down, the power level of the vacuum pump 248 may first be increased by the reduced-pressure control unit 260 for a time. The power level of the vacuum pump may be increased all the way to a full power level or a selected level as shown by refhrence line B on the graph. Thus. in one example the reduced* pressure control unit(260 may determine that the pressure at the pressure sensor 246 is below the pressure level A and that the reduced pressure is not increasing, then, Ml power or a maximum power setting B may he applied to the vacuum pump 248 such that the reduced-pressure system 200 may be represented on the graph, by a third point 310. If partial, blockage Is the main issue that had otherwise kept the pressure from folly responding, the vacuum ptnhp 248 at the increased Mi power level may he able to move to a fourth point 31¾ which is beyond pressure threshold level A and the vacuum pump 248 will shut down until the pressure decreases below le vel A again , If foe blo ckage of the source conduit 236 is such that even foil power does not move the pressure beyond level A alter a given time, the alarm· is signaled and the vacuum putnp 248 is shut down. Note that as shown in FIGURE 2€, when the incompressible fluid 258 covers the sensor port 240, the increased power to the .vacuum- pump 248 will result In lowering the pressure in the remaining void spue© 25# pf reservoir 224, but Will not increase the reduced pressure and thus will not cause the pressure measured by pressure sensor 246 to fee beyond level A. Aoeordlngly, thesystem 200, and particularly the vacuum pump 248, will shut down and give the full mseryoir/felocked Indication. 169401 ffoforring now primarily to FIGURE 4S an ilhistrativ© embodiment of a reduced* pressure coniM unit 460 is presented. The reduced*|K®ssure control unit 460 includes a housing unit 462, which contains various components for controlling a reduced-pressure system* such as system 200 of FIGURE 2A*2€; The reduced-pressure control unit 460 may receive a number of diteent input signalsfrom input devices. The reduced-pressme control unit 460 is shown with a first input 464, which in this ilfostMion m a pressure signal F representative of the pressure within the interior space of the reservoir as measured by a pressure sensor in a pressure sensor eondmt if the pressure signal supplied to the first Input 464 is imt almady digitized * a first imaiog-to-digita! converter 466 may be inclnded to receive and convert the pressure signal to a digital signal, A second input 468 may be included* In ibis illustration, the second input 468 is a supply signal, e.g., a signal representati ve of the power data to the pump and in particular may be a signal L As before, if the supply signal I is not already in a digitized form, a second anaiog-to-digiial converter 470 may be included to convert the signal to a digital format 10041] Similarly, a third input signal 472 is shown and is merely representative of other signals that may be provided to the reduced-pressure control rant 460, For example, the third input signal 472 may be a temperature signal that reflects die temperature within the fluid in the reservoir. The fluid temperature might affect the viscosity of the fluid and in turn might influence such parameters as the interval time for waiting on responses within the reduced-pressure system. If the representative third input signal 472 is not already in a digitized form, another analog-te-digital converter 474 may be included.
[0042] The signals received in the input signals 464,468,472, (and converted if needed) may be delivered to a buffer memory 476 and either supplied to a memory unit 478 or directly delivered to a microprocessor 482. It may be desirable to keep a recording of the input data to allow different determinations, such as whether or not the pressure is rising or decreasing. The memory' unit 478 may also he used to determine if no pressure change has been experienced over an extended time period while the reduced-pressure source has been off. In that case. It may be desirable for the reduced-pressure control unit 460 to provide a warning light that the reduced-pressure delivery conduit, e.g, reduced-pressure delivery conduit 222 FIGURE 2Α» may be blocked, {©043] The microprocessor 482 Is operable to carry out a number of diflerent determinations as to when the vacuum pump should be increased in power, shut down, or when an alarm signal or other signals should be produced as will be explained in connection with FIGURE 5. The microprocessor 482 has a number of outputs, A first output 484 is a pump control signal that may be delivered to control the vacuum pump. For example, the pump control signal 484 may be delivered to the current control unit 256 in FIGURE 2 A to adjust tire power to the vacuum pump 248 or to turn the vacuum pump 248 off. In embodiments with other reduced pressure sources, a control signal may be used to adjust the supply rate, The microprocessor 482 may also provide a second output 486, which may be an alarm signal . The alarm signal may activate an audible alarm, e.g. speaker 142 in FIGURE I, A third output 488 is a representative output signal that may control other features, such as providing a status light on a display, e.g, light or indicator 132 or 136 in FIGURE 1. A power supply 490 supplies power to various components within the reduced-pressure control unit 460 and may be a battery or may he conditioned powerffem another source, [00441 For control units feat utilize a microprocessor, such as reduced-pressure control unit 460 of FIGURE 4pthe hiicrop^ microprocessor 482, may he designed to be used in coujunetion with a memory device, e,:g. buffer memory 476 or memory unit 47$fto CtaKteef a number of different operations in using the input signals 464, 468, and developing of appropriate output signals, e.g, signals 484,486,488..
[0045J Referring now pimiariiy to FIGURE: 5, one illustrative presentation of the possible logic or operation that may be used with a control unit is presented, The operation begins at step St)2 and proceeds to decision step 504 where a question: is asked: is the reduced pressure front a pressure sensor in a pressure sensor conduit greater than threshold value? (The reduced pressure in the pressure sensor conduit typically is the same as in the mservoir to which the pressure sensor conduit is iuidly cdupled), i n other words, is the absolute value of the negative gauge pfessup greater than the threshold value? With reference to FIGURE 3, the question Is asking -whether or not the pressure point is below the threshold value line A, if the answer is in fee affirmative, an increase in the reduced pressure is not necessary, and fee system can wait. Accordingly, the flow proceeds to step $06 where the system waits for a certain time interval before again fetmiting to decision step 564, This time interval and the others may he pre-progmmmed or may he entered by a healthcare provider or user, p046J if the response to decision step 504 is in fee negative, additional reduced pressure is desired and fee vacuum pump is activated at step 508. Then, fee vacuum pump or reduced-pressure source is allowed to act for a certain time interval at step 510 before the system goes to decision step 512 where fee following questionls asked: is fee reduced pressure increasing'? In other words. Is the absolute value of the reduced pressure: in the reservoir increasing—taking: oft a larger number? IT so, fee system proceeds to decision step 514, which again asks if the reduced pressure is greater than a threshold value. If the answer is in fee affirmative, fee system proceeds to step 516 and fee pump or reduced-pressure source Is turned off In that case, the system would update fee signal indicating no blockdgcfeut feO in step 518 and w^uld return along path 520 to go back to decision step 504. 160471 If tlfe response to decision feep 514 is in fee negative, fee system may wait for a specified time interval atstep 522 before again returning to decision step 512. This forms a loop and fee loop can continue until the fereshold value Is reached or until the reduced pressure is oo longer Increasing. Once the pressure is no longer mereasings the answer atdecision step S12 is in the negative, and the system proceeds to Vision step 524. Decision step 524 asks whether dr not the pomp Is at MI po wer (or mdiaied-pressure source at maxMum rednced pressure). If the answer is in the negati ve, the power to the piamp is inereased at step 52$, and if in the affirmati ve, a timer Is started at step 528. then, decision step 530 Is readied, and decision step 530 asks iedue$d ..pmssarp^inp^isig? if the answer is in the affirmative, the analysis continues along path 532 to decision step 514. If the answer is in the negative, the process continues to decision step 534, Deeision step 534 asks if the timer started at 528 has reached the maMoiom timer value. If the tinier has not. additional time is taken with step 53$. If the timer has, the process has timed out and the process proceeds to step 538 where (canister) fellMocka^ is sent. In addition, an alarm signal may be sent in step 540, The vacuum pump or redneed-prossum source ivmy then be turned oif at step 542. The process ends at step 544, It will be appreciated that the mservoir (eaoister) fblffloekage signal is given when either the reservoir is deemed lull or when a blockage exists. Either way, the system is unable to restore the pressure in the reservoir and a reservoir-MI/blockage condition exists, This logic is only one of the many ways that the control unit shay be programmed, |0ίΜ8| Although the present invention and its ad vantages have been disclosed in the context of certain Illustrative, non-limiting embodiments, It should be understood that various changes, substitutionsypennutatioss, and alterations can be made without departing .from the scope of the myestioh as defined by the appended claims. It willbe appreciated that any feature that Is described in a connection to any one embodiment may also be applicable to any other embodiment
Claims (24)
1. A method of controlling a reduced-pressure treatment system, the method comprising: coupling a pressure sensor to a reservoir; coupling a supply sensor to a reduced-pressure source; receiving a pressure signal from the pressure sensor, wherein the pressure signal is correlated to reduced pressure in the reservoir; receiving a supply signal from the supply sensor, wherein the supply signal is correlated to a supply rate of reduced pressure to the reservoir; and generating a control signal for the reduced-pressure treatment system based on the pressure signal and the supply signal; wherein the control signal increases the supply rate if a blockage condition exists and terminates a supply of reduced pressure if the pressure signal does not rise in absolute value with an increased supply signal.
2. The method of claim 1, wherein generating a control signal comprises determining if a blockage condition exists based on the pressure signal and the supply signal.
3. The method of claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the supply signal is correlated to power supplied to the reduced pressure source.
4. The method of claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the supply signal is correlated to current supplied to the reduced pressure source.
5. The method of claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the supply signal is indicative of a valve opening on the reduced-pressure source.
6. The method of any one of the preceding claims, further comprising generating an alarm signal if a blockage condition exists and the pressure signal does not rise in absolute value with the increased supply signal.
7. The method of any one of the preceding claims, wherein generating the control signal comprises: determining if a reservoir-full condition exists based on the pressure signal and the supply signal; and turning off the reduced-pressure source if the reservoir-full condition exists.
8. The method of any one of the preceding claims 1 to 6, wherein generating the control signal comprises providing a desired pressure to the reservoir and turning off the reduced-pressure source if the reservoir is full.
9. A method of controlling a reduced-pres sure treatment system, the method comprising: coupling a pressure sensor to a reservoir; coupling a supply sensor to a reduced-pressure source; receiving a pressure signal from the pressure sensor correlated to reduced pressure in the reservoir; receiving a supply signal from the supply sensor correlated to a supply rate of reduced pressure to the reservoir; and generating a control signal for the reduced-pressure treatment system based on the pressure signal and the supply signal; wherein generating the control signal comprises identifying a blockage condition if the reduced-pressure source is not able to increase the reduced pressure within the reservoir above a threshold for a predetermined time by increasing the supply rate of reduced pressure.
10. The method of claim 9, wherein the control signal increases the supply rate if a blockage condition exists.
11. The method of claim 9 or claim 10, wherein the blockage condition is a partial blockage condition.
12. The method of claim 9 or claim 10, wherein the blockage condition is a full canister condition.
13. The method of any one of the preceding claims 9 to 12, wherein the supply signal is correlated to power supplied to the reduced pressure source.
14. The method of any one of the preceding claims 9 to 12, wherein the supply signal is correlated to current supplied to the reduced pressure source.
15. The method of any one of the preceding claims 9 to 12, wherein the supply signal is indicative of a valve opening on the reduced-pressure source.
16. The method of any one of the preceding claims 9 to 15, further comprising generating an alarm signal if a blockage condition exists.
17. The method of any one of the preceding claims 9 to 16, wherein the control signal comprises: a signal to shut down the reduced-pressure source.
18. A reduced-pressure control unit having a microprocessor configured to: monitor a pressure signal from a pressure sensor and correlated to reduced pressure within a reservoir; receive a supply signal correlated to a supply rate of reduced pressure to the reservoir; and generate a control signal based on the pressure signal and the supply signal; wherein the control signal increases the supply rate if a blockage condition exists and terminates a supply of reduced pressure if the pressure signal does not rise in absolute value with an increased supply signal.
19. The reduced-pressure control unit of claim 18, wherein generating the control signal comprises determining if the blockage condition exists based on the pressure signal and the supply signal.
20. The reduced-pressure control unit of claim 18 or claim 19, wherein the microprocessor is further configured to generate an alarm signal if a blockage condition exists and the pressure signal does not rise in absolute value with the increased supply signal.
21. The reduced-pressure control unit of any one of the preceding claims 18 to 20, wherein determining if the blockage condition exists comprises determining if the pressure signal decreases below a selected absolute value for a specified time interval and the pressure signal does not rise in absolute value with an increased supply signal.
22. The reduced-pressure control unit of claim 18, wherein generating the control signal comprises providing a desired pressure to the reservoir and turning off the reduced pressure if the reservoir is full.
23. A method of controlling a reduced-pres sure treatment system, the method comprising: monitoring a pressure signal from a pressure sensor correlated to reduced pressure within a reservoir; receiving a supply signal correlated to a supply rate of reduced pressure; determining if the pressure signal decreases below a selected absolute value for a specified time interval; and terminating a supply of reduced pressure using a control signal if the pressure signal does not rise in absolute value with an increased supply signal.
24. The method of claim 23, wherein the reduced pressure is supplied with a vacuum pump.
Priority Applications (4)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| AU2015200161A AU2015200161B2 (en) | 2008-08-08 | 2015-01-14 | Reduced-pressure treatment systems with reservoir control |
| AU2017201678A AU2017201678B2 (en) | 2008-08-08 | 2017-03-10 | Reduced-pressure treatment systems with reservoir control |
| AU2019268080A AU2019268080A1 (en) | 2008-08-08 | 2019-11-19 | Reduced-pressure treatment systems with reservoir control |
| AU2022200244A AU2022200244B2 (en) | 2008-08-08 | 2022-01-14 | Reduced-pressure treatment systems with reservoir control |
Applications Claiming Priority (3)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| US61/087,377 | 2008-08-08 | ||
| AU2009279487A AU2009279487B2 (en) | 2008-08-08 | 2009-08-07 | Reduced-pressure treatment systems with reservoir control |
| AU2015200161A AU2015200161B2 (en) | 2008-08-08 | 2015-01-14 | Reduced-pressure treatment systems with reservoir control |
Related Parent Applications (1)
| Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| AU2009279487A Division AU2009279487B2 (en) | 2008-08-08 | 2009-08-07 | Reduced-pressure treatment systems with reservoir control |
Related Child Applications (1)
| Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| AU2017201678A Division AU2017201678B2 (en) | 2008-08-08 | 2017-03-10 | Reduced-pressure treatment systems with reservoir control |
Publications (2)
| Publication Number | Publication Date |
|---|---|
| AU2015200161A1 AU2015200161A1 (en) | 2015-02-05 |
| AU2015200161B2 true AU2015200161B2 (en) | 2016-12-15 |
Family
ID=52465075
Family Applications (4)
| Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| AU2015200161A Active AU2015200161B2 (en) | 2008-08-08 | 2015-01-14 | Reduced-pressure treatment systems with reservoir control |
| AU2017201678A Active AU2017201678B2 (en) | 2008-08-08 | 2017-03-10 | Reduced-pressure treatment systems with reservoir control |
| AU2019268080A Abandoned AU2019268080A1 (en) | 2008-08-08 | 2019-11-19 | Reduced-pressure treatment systems with reservoir control |
| AU2022200244A Active AU2022200244B2 (en) | 2008-08-08 | 2022-01-14 | Reduced-pressure treatment systems with reservoir control |
Family Applications After (3)
| Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| AU2017201678A Active AU2017201678B2 (en) | 2008-08-08 | 2017-03-10 | Reduced-pressure treatment systems with reservoir control |
| AU2019268080A Abandoned AU2019268080A1 (en) | 2008-08-08 | 2019-11-19 | Reduced-pressure treatment systems with reservoir control |
| AU2022200244A Active AU2022200244B2 (en) | 2008-08-08 | 2022-01-14 | Reduced-pressure treatment systems with reservoir control |
Country Status (1)
| Country | Link |
|---|---|
| AU (4) | AU2015200161B2 (en) |
Citations (2)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| WO2003101508A2 (en) * | 2002-05-31 | 2003-12-11 | Hill-Rom Services, Inc. | Wound treatment apparatus |
| US20070032763A1 (en) * | 2005-08-08 | 2007-02-08 | Vogel Richard C | Wound irrigation device pressure monitoring and control system |
Family Cites Families (4)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| US5636643A (en) * | 1991-11-14 | 1997-06-10 | Wake Forest University | Wound treatment employing reduced pressure |
| US7625362B2 (en) * | 2003-09-16 | 2009-12-01 | Boehringer Technologies, L.P. | Apparatus and method for suction-assisted wound healing |
| US7503910B2 (en) * | 2006-02-01 | 2009-03-17 | Carmeli Adahan | Suctioning system, method and kit |
| US7837673B2 (en) * | 2005-08-08 | 2010-11-23 | Innovative Therapies, Inc. | Wound irrigation device |
-
2015
- 2015-01-14 AU AU2015200161A patent/AU2015200161B2/en active Active
-
2017
- 2017-03-10 AU AU2017201678A patent/AU2017201678B2/en active Active
-
2019
- 2019-11-19 AU AU2019268080A patent/AU2019268080A1/en not_active Abandoned
-
2022
- 2022-01-14 AU AU2022200244A patent/AU2022200244B2/en active Active
Patent Citations (2)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| WO2003101508A2 (en) * | 2002-05-31 | 2003-12-11 | Hill-Rom Services, Inc. | Wound treatment apparatus |
| US20070032763A1 (en) * | 2005-08-08 | 2007-02-08 | Vogel Richard C | Wound irrigation device pressure monitoring and control system |
Also Published As
| Publication number | Publication date |
|---|---|
| AU2017201678A1 (en) | 2017-03-30 |
| AU2019268080A1 (en) | 2019-12-12 |
| AU2017201678B2 (en) | 2019-08-22 |
| AU2015200161A1 (en) | 2015-02-05 |
| AU2022200244B2 (en) | 2023-09-28 |
| AU2022200244A1 (en) | 2022-02-10 |
Similar Documents
| Publication | Publication Date | Title |
|---|---|---|
| US11154651B2 (en) | Reduced-pressure treatment systems with reservoir control | |
| US10556044B2 (en) | Reduced-pressure dressing connection pads, systems, and methods | |
| AU2015200161B2 (en) | Reduced-pressure treatment systems with reservoir control |
Legal Events
| Date | Code | Title | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| FGA | Letters patent sealed or granted (standard patent) | ||
| PC | Assignment registered |
Owner name: 3M INNOVATIVE PROPERTIES COMPANY Free format text: FORMER OWNER(S): KCI LICENSING, INC. |
|
| PC | Assignment registered |
Owner name: SOLVENTUM INTELLECTUAL PROPERTIES COMPANY Free format text: FORMER OWNER(S): 3M INNOVATIVE PROPERTIES COMPANY |