CA2999658A1

CA2999658A1 - Devices and methods for compressing a digit to facilitate removal of a ring

Info

Publication number: CA2999658A1
Application number: CA2999658A
Authority: CA
Inventors: Brad MACKEIL; Mason LANDRY; Callum THOMPSON; Patrick Hennessey; Kevin Spencer
Original assignee: Individual
Current assignee: Individual
Priority date: 2018-03-29
Filing date: 2018-03-29
Publication date: 2019-09-29
Also published as: CN112203621A; EP3755279A4; CN112203621B; EP3755279A1

Abstract

A compression device for freeing a ring trapped on a finger includes a rigid outer body. The rigid outer body includes a finger cavity extending from a cavity opening at a body proximal end of the body towards a body distal end of the body, a fluid inlet, and a fluid flow path fluidly connecting the fluid inlet to one or more inflation chambers positioned in the finger cavity. The body proximal end includes an upper portion, a lower portion, and two laterally spaced-apart side portions. At least one side portion is distally recessed as compared to the upper and lower portions to accommodate an interdigital fold. At least one flexible bladder lines the finger cavity, each flexible bladder defining at least one wall of one of the one or more inflation chambers.

Description

DEVICES AND METHODS FOR COMPRESSING A DIGIT TO FACILITATE REMOVAL
OF A RING
FIELD
[0001] This disclosure relates generally devices and methods for removing rings or other hand jewelry from a digit (i.e. a finger or thumb), and more specifically to devices and methods that employ a rigid outer body in which a digit may be inserted, and an inflatable bladder to selectively apply pressure to surface of the inserted digit to promote its compression.
INTRODUCTION

[0002] Removing hand jewelry is commonplace in hospital emergency rooms around the world. Rings must be removed from the fingers of patients in many, if not most cases where there is swelling of the finger, and/or swelling of the associated hand or arm. In cases where rings cannot be removed easily, the process of removal may be time-consuming, and in some cases may risk the health of the patient.

[0003] In the event that a ring is not easily removable from a patient's swollen finger, there are two widely accepted methods for removal of the ring: the 'ring cutter method' and the 'string method'. In the ring cutter method, the ring is cut using e.g. a small rotary saw, and then mechanically deformed to remove it from the finger. In the string method, string or an elastic constrictive material (e.g. a penrose drain) is wrapped tightly around a swollen finger to compress the finger, in an effort to decrease the swelling sufficiently so that the ring can be removed by sliding the ring towards and ultimately past the distal end of the finger.
SUMMARY

[0004] The following introduction is provided to introduce the reader to the more detailed discussion to follow. The introduction is not intended to limit or define any claimed or as yet unclaimed invention. One or more inventions may reside in any combination or sub-combination of the elements or process steps disclosed in any part of this document including its claims and figures.

[0005] In accordance with one aspect of this disclosure, a compression device for freeing a ring trapped or 'stuck' on a finger includes a rigid outer body or housing, a finger cavity in which a finger on which a ring is stuck may be positioned, and an inflation chamber positioned in the finger cavity. When a swollen finger is positioned in the cavity, the inflation chamber may be inflated to apply and maintain pressure to the exterior of the finger, promoting compression of the finger by forcing endemic fluid from the finger into the hand and surrounding tissue. Once the volume and/or the maximum diameter of the finger has been reduced, the finger may be removed from the device and the ring can be removed by sliding the ring towards and ultimately past the distal end of the finger.

[0006] An advantage of this design is that the device may be positioned around a finger in a relatively simple manner, which may reduce the time required to begin compressing the finger once a need or desire to do so is identified.

[0007] Another advantage of this design is that the device may allow a relatively uniform pressure to be applied to the entire finger in a relatively simple manner, e.g. without requiring the time and/or skill required to perform the string method.

[0008] Another advantage is that the device may allow a relatively uniform pressure to be maintained to the finger during its compression. For example, after an initial application of pressure, the volume of the finger may begin to decrease as endemic fluid is forced from the finger. By allowing the volume and/or pressure of fluid within the inflation chamber to be increased as the volume of the inserted finger decreases, a relatively constant pressure may be maintained on the exterior of the finger as its volume decreases.
This may increase the amount of endemic fluid the device can remove from the finger in a given time period.

[0009] Preferably, an opening of the finger cavity has at least one side portion that is recessed towards the distal end of the compression device. This recess or hollow may allow a finger to be positioned deeper into the finger cavity, e.g. by accommodating an interdigital fold. An advantage of this design is that the inflation chamber may surround more of the finger, which may allow most or preferably substantially all of the finger to be compressed. This may be particularly advantageous for removing rings that are trapped at or near the base of the finger, i.e. a typical location where a ring is worn.

[0010] Optionally, two or more inflation chambers may be provided in the finger .. cavity. An advantage of this design is that it may allow pressure to be selectively and/or sequentially applied to two or more portions of the length of the finger. For example, pressure may be initially applied at the distal end of the finger, and while this initial pressure is maintained, pressure may be subsequently applied to the proximate end of the finger.
This may facilitate a positive pressure gradient along the length of the inserted the finger, inhibiting or preventing endemic fluid from flowing towards and/or accumulating in the tip of the finger.

[0011] In accordance with a broad aspect, there is provided a compression device for freeing a ring trapped on a finger, the compression device comprising: a rigid outer body extending from a body proximal end to a body distal end, the rigid outer body comprising: a finger cavity extending from a cavity opening at the body proximal end towards the body distal end, a fluid inlet, and a fluid flow path fluidly connecting the fluid inlet to one or more inflation chambers positioned in the finger cavity, wherein the body proximal end comprises an upper portion, a lower portion, and two laterally spaced-apart side portions, each side portion connecting the upper portion to the lower portion, at least one side portion being distally recessed as compared to the upper and lower portions to accommodate an interdigital fold; and at least one flexible bladder lining the finger cavity, each flexible bladder defining at least one wall of one of the inflation chambers.

[0012] In some embodiments, each side portion is distally recessed as compared to the upper and lower portions.

[0013] In some embodiments, the compression device further comprises a fluid pressure gauge rigidly connected to the body and fluidly connected to the fluid flow path.

[0014] In some embodiments, the pressure gauge includes a pressure indicator movable in response to fluid pressure within the fluid flow path, and a visual indicium identifying a position of the pressure indicator corresponding to a target pressure.

[0015] In some embodiments, the pressure gauge is housed in the rigid outer body.

[0016] In some embodiments, the visual indicium is provided on the rigid outer body.

[0017] In some embodiments, the rigid outer body defines at least one wall of each of the inflation chambers.

[0018] In some embodiments, the finger cavity has a closed distal end.

[0019] In some embodiments, the fluid inlet is at the body distal end.

[0020] In some embodiments, the fluid inlet comprises a normally-closed valve that is openable by connecting a fluid source.

[0021] In some embodiments, the finger cavity has a substantially cylindrical cross-.. sectional shape.

[0022] In some embodiments, the upper and lower portions extend proximally of the two side portions.

[0023] In some embodiments, the at least one inflation chamber comprises a first inflation chamber and a second inflation chamber, and the compression device further comprises a flow control valve in the fluid flow path between the first inflation chamber and the second inflation chamber.

[0024] In some embodiments, the flow control valve is an orifice valve.

[0025] In some embodiments, the rigid outer body is at least one of translucent or transparent.

[0026] In some embodiments, at least one of the inflation chambers is at least one of translucent or transparent.

[0027] In some embodiments, the compression device further comprises a pressure relief valve in fluid communication with the fluid flow path, and openable to atmosphere in response to a predetermined excessive fluid pressure within the fluid flow path.

[0028] In some embodiments, the flexible bladder comprises a tubular sheet extending from a sheet proximal portion to a sheet distal portion, each of the sheet proximal portion and sheet distal portion being sealed fluid tight to the rigid outer body.

[0029] It will be appreciated by a person skilled in the art that an apparatus or method disclosed herein may embody any one or more of the features contained herein and that the features may be used in any particular combination or sub-combination.

[0030] These and other aspects and features of various embodiments will be described in greater detail below.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0031] For a better understanding of the described embodiments and to show more clearly how they may be carried into effect, reference will now be made, by way of example, to the accompanying drawings in which:

[0032] Figure 1 is an example of a swollen finger with a ring 'stuck' on the finger;

[0033] Figure 2 is an illustration of a ring being removed from a swollen finger by cutting the ring;

[0034] Figure 3 is an illustration of a ring being removed by using string to compress the finger;

[0035] Figure 4 is a perspective view of a compression device in accordance with one embodiment;

[0036] Figure 5 is a side view of the compression device of Figure 4;

[0037] Figure 6 is a top view of the compression device of Figure 4;

[0038] Figure 7 is an end view of the proximal end of the compression device of Figure 4;

[0039] Figure 8 is a section view of the compression device of Figure 4, taken along line 8-8 in Figure 7;

[0040] Figure 9 is a schematic section view of the compression device of Figure 4, with a source of pressurized fluid coupled to the compression device, and with a finger positioned in the finger cavity;

[0041] Figure 10 is a schematic section view of the compression device of Figure 4, with a finger positioned in the finger cavity and the inflation chamber in an uninflated state;

[0042] Figure 11 is a schematic section view of the compression device and finger of Figure 11, with the inflation chamber in a partially inflated state;

[0043] Figure 12 is a schematic section view of the compression device and finger of Figure 11, with the inflation chamber in an inflated state;

[0044] Figure 13 is a schematic view of a pressure indicator of a pressure gauge;

[0045] Figure 14 is a perspective view of a compression device in accordance with another embodiment;

[0046] Figure 15 is an end view of the proximal end of the compression device of Figure 14;

[0047] Figure 16 is a section view of the compression device of Figure 14, taken along line 16-16 in Figure 15;

[0048] Figure 17 is a perspective view of the compression device of Figure 14, with the flexible bladders partially removed from the finger cavity;

[0049] Figure 18 is a perspective view of the compression device of Figure 14, with the flexible bladders removed from the finger cavity;

[0050] Figure 19 is a schematic example of a pressure circuit for a compression device;

[0051] Figure 20 is a schematic example of another pressure circuit of a compression device; and

[0052] Figure 21 is a schematic cross section of a testing model of a finger used to assess a finger compressing device.

[0053] The drawings included herewith are for illustrating various examples of articles, methods, and apparatuses of the teaching of the present specification and are not intended to limit the scope of what is taught in any way.
DESCRIPTION OF EXAMPLE EMBODIMENTS

[0054] Various apparatuses, methods and compositions are described below to provide an example of an embodiment of each claimed invention. No embodiment described below limits any claimed invention and any claimed invention may cover apparatuses and methods that differ from those described below. The claimed inventions are not limited to apparatuses, methods and compositions having all of the features of any one apparatus, method or composition described below or to features common to multiple or all of the apparatuses, methods or compositions described below. It is possible that an apparatus, method or composition described below is not an embodiment of any claimed invention. Any invention disclosed in an apparatus, method or composition described below that is not claimed in this document may be the subject matter of another protective instrument, for example, a continuing patent application, and the applicant(s), inventor(s) and/or owner(s) do not intend to abandon, disclaim, or dedicate to the public any such invention by its disclosure in this document.

[0055] Furthermore, it will be appreciated that for simplicity and clarity of illustration, where considered appropriate, reference numerals may be repeated among the figures to indicate corresponding or analogous elements. In addition, numerous specific details are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding of the example embodiments described herein. However, it will be understood by those of ordinary skill in the art that the example embodiments described herein may be practiced without these specific details. In other instances, well-known methods, procedures, and components have not been described in detail so as not to obscure the example embodiments described herein. Also, the description is not to be considered as limiting the scope of the example embodiments described herein.

[0056] Figure 1 depicts a ring 10 that is 'stuck' on a swollen finger 20, in that it cannot be removed by pulling or otherwise mechanically urging the ring towards the distal end of the finger without damaging the finger and/or causing significant pain or discomfort.
In the event that a ring is not easily removable from a swollen finger or thumb, there are two widely used methods for removal of the ring: the 'ring cutter method' and the 'string method'.

[0057] In the ring cutter method, a ring 10 is cut using e.g. a small rotary saw (e.g.
saw 30 depicted in Figure 2), and then mechanically deformed to remove it from the finger.
While this method may be effective in many cases, it may be difficult or impractical to employ on certain rings (e.g. those made of particularly hard materials such as Tungsten) or if the ring, finger, and/or hand geometry makes it difficult or impractical to position a cutting blade to cut the ring without also cutting or otherwise damaging the surrounding tissue. This method also results in damage to the ring.

[0058] In the string method, string 40 is wrapped tightly around a swollen finger 20 to compress the finger (e.g. as depicted in ,Figure 3), in an effort to decrease the swelling sufficiently so that the ring 10 can be removed by sliding the ring towards and ultimately past the distal end of the finger. While this method may be effective in many cases, it may require significant skill and/or dexterity to effectively wrap the string. It may also require a significant amount of time to properly wrap the string, which may be problematic in cases where time is of the essence.

[0059] Figure 4 shows a compression device, referred to generally as 100, for freeing a ring trapped or 'stuck' on a finger or thumb. Compression device 100 includes a rigid outer body 110 (which may also be referred to as a rigid housing), a finger cavity 120 in which a finger on which a ring is stuck may be positioned, and an inflation chamber 130 positioned in the finger cavity. When a swollen finger is positioned in the cavity, the inflation chamber may be inflated to apply and maintain pressure to the exterior of the finger, promoting compression of the finger by forcing endemic fluid from the finger into the hand and surrounding tissue.

[0060] Referring now to Figures 4 to 8, the body or housing 110 of the compression device 100 has a body proximal end 102 and a body distal end 104. An opening 125 of the finger cavity 120 is provided at the body proximal end 102. When a finger is positioned in the finger cavity, the body proximal end 102 overlies a proximal end of the finger, and the body distal end 104 of the body is positioned at or near a distal end of the inserted finger.

[0061] In the illustrated example, an auxiliary opening 127 is provided at the body distal end 104 to provide access to the finger cavity 120. For example, when a finger is inserted into the opening 125 at the body proximal end 102, air may be evacuated from the finger cavity 120 via the auxiliary opening 127. Alternatively, the body distal end 104 may be substantially or completely closed, such that the finger cavity 120 cannot be accessed from the body distal end 104.

[0062] In the illustrated example, the finger cavity opening 125 includes an upper portion 122 and a lower portion 124. A first side portion 123a and a second side portion 123b each connect the upper portion 122 to the lower portion 124. Preferably, at least one of the side portions 123a, 123bb is distally recessed relative to the upper portion 122 and the lower portion 124. Providing a recessed side portion 123 may allow the compression device 100 to be positioned over most or substantially all of a finger, as the recessed side portion may accommodate e.g. an interdigital fold between adjacent fingers.

[0063] In the illustrated example, both side portions 123a, 123b are distally recessed by the same distance Drecess, although it will be appreciated that the side portions 123a, 123b may be recessed by different distances. In some embodiments, only one side portion may be distally recessed.

[0064] Also, in the illustrated example both side portions 123a, 123b have the same profile (e.g. as seen in Figure 5), although it will be appreciated that they may have different profiles in alternative embodiments.

[0065] Referring to Figure 8, an inflation chamber 130 is provided in the finger cavity.
In the illustrated example, the inflation chamber is defined by an interior surface 125 of the body 110, and by a flexible bladder 140. In the embodiment illustrated in Figure 8, bladder 140 comprises a flexible tubular sheet 145, with a distal end portion 144 of the sheet 145 secured at the distal end 104 of the body 110, and a proximal end portion 142 of the sheet 145 secured at the proximal end 102 of the body 110. In this example, the sheet 145 of bladder 140 forms an interior wall 147 of the inflation chamber 130.

[0066] The inflation chamber 130 is in fluid communication with a fluid inlet 150 of the compression device 100 via a fluid flow path 155. In this way, fluid introduced to the compression device 100 via the fluid inlet 150 is directed towards the interior of the inflation chamber 130. Since the interior surface 125 of the rigid body 110 is relatively inflexible relative to the flexible sheet 145, as fluid is introduced to the inflation chamber, the flexible sheet 145 may be urged towards a longitudinal axis 129 of the finger cavity 120.

[0067] In an alternative arrangement (not shown), the bladder 140 may define substantially all of the walls of the inflation chamber, e.g. with one wall of the bladder facing or abutting the interior surface 125 of the rigid body 110, and another wall of the bladder facing the interior of the finger cavity 120. In such an arrangement, as fluid is introduced to the flexible bladder 140, the wall of the bladder facing the interior of the finger cavity 120 may be urged towards the longitudinal axis 129 of the finger cavity 120 (as the wall of the bladder facing or abutting the interior surface 125 of the rigid body 110 may be restrained by the interior surface 125).

[0068] The flexible bladder 140 may be made from any suitable material, such as silicone, an elastomer, a polyvinyl chloride (PVC) membrane, and the like.
Preferably, at least the interior wall 147 of the flexible bladder is a biocompatible material that is not expected to irritate or otherwise react with the skin of an inserted finger.
Optionally, the flexible bladder 140 may be made from a translucent or substantially transparent material, such as a translucent or transparent silicone elastomer. Providing a translucent or transparent bladder 140 may facilitate observation of the inserted finger, particularly where the rigid body 110 is made from a translucent or substantially transparent material.

[0069] Optionally, a valve or other flow, control device may be provided between the fluid inlet 150 and the fluid flow path 155. For example, as shown in Figure 8, a normally closed check valve 151 may be provided to prevent fluid from exiting the fluid flow path 155 via the fluid inlet 150.

[0070] Additionally, or alternatively, a manually operated valve may be provided between the fluid inlet 150 and the fluid flow path 155. For example, in the schematic pressure circuit example shown in Figure 19, a manually operated valve 152 is provided between the check valve 151 and the fluid flow path 155.

[0071] Optionally, a fluid pressure gauge may be connected to the compression device 100 to provide an indication of fluid pressure within the inflation chamber 130. For example, as shown in Figure 4 to 8, a fluid pressure gauge 160 may be provided on the upper end of compression device 100. As shown in Figure 8, fluid pressure gauge 160 is in fluid communication with fluid flow path 155. In the illustrated example, as the pressure of fluid in the fluid flow path increases, a slider 165 is urged against a compression spring 167. A viewing window 169 allows visual observation of the relative position of the slider 165 (see Fig. 13). It will be appreciated that the pressure gauge may be of any other suitable type.

[0072] Optionally, the pressure gauge may include a visual indicium of a target pressure range and/or target pressure for the inflation chamber. For example, as illustrated in Figure 13, the slider 165 has a line 166 or other visual reference mark, and markings 163 such as "HI", "OK", and "LO" are provided adjacent the viewing window 169. It will be appreciated that any suitable visual markings may be alternatively and/or additionally provided. For example, one or more colours may be provided instead of text markings.

[0073] Optionally, a pressure relief valve or other safety valve may be provided in fluid communication with the fluid flow path 155 to prevent excessive pressure in the inflation chamber from applying excessive force to an inserted finger and/or from damaging to the compression device. For example, in the schematic pressure circuit example shown in Figure 19, a relief valve 159 is provided adjacent the fluid pressure gauge 160.

[0074] The rigid body 110 may be made from any suitable material, such as metal, plastic, thermoplastic, composite (e.g. carbon fiber) and the like.
Optionally, the body 110 may be made from a translucent or substantially transparent material, such as a translucent or transparent plastic or thermoplastic. Providing a translucent or transparent body 110 .. may facilitate observation of the inflation chamber and/or the inserted finger (e.g. where the flexible bladder is also translucent or transparent).

[0075] Use of a compression device 100 to facilitate the removal of a ring trapped on a finger will now be described with reference to Figures 9 to 13.

[0076] As shown in the example illustrated Figure 9, the compression device 100 is .. positioned relative to a finger 20 on which a ring (not shown) is stuck so that the finger is positioned in the finger cavity 120. Preferably, with the finger inserted, an interdigital fold (i.e. a web between adjacent fingers) is adjacent or abuts at least one of the side portions 123a, 123b of the finger cavity opening 125. As noted above, the distally recessed side portion(s) allow(s) the compression device 100 envelope most or substantially all of the inserted finger, allowing a compressing force to be applied to most or substantially all of the inserted finger.

[0077] Optionally, a lubricant may be provided on the outer surface of the finger to be inserted and/or on the inwardly facing surface of the flexible tubular sheet 145. Any suitable lubricant may be used.

[0078] As also shown in the example illustrated Figure 9, a source of fluid is coupled to the fluid inlet 150 of the compression device 100. The source of fluid may be used to introduce any suitable fluid, such as a liquid (e.g. cold water) or a gas (e.g. compressed air). In the illustrated example, the source of fluid includes a manually actuated syringe 170, although it will be appreciated that any suitable source of fluid may be used.
For example, syringe 170 may be used to introduce e.g. cold water into the inflation chamber 130.

Alternatively, a source of compressed air (e.g. a compressed air line, a manually operated pneumatic pump) may be used to introduce air or another suitable gas into the inflation chamber 130.

[0079] It will be appreciated that the finger may be positioned in the finger cavity 120 before, after, or concurrently with coupling of a source of fluid to the fluid inlet 150 of the compression device 100.

[0080] Where an auxiliary opening 127 is provided at the body distal end 104, the auxiliary opening 127 may be fully or substantially closed once a finger is positioned in the finger cavity 120. For example, a piece of rigid pipe or other suitable blocking member (not shown) may be positioned in the auxiliary opening 127 to inhibit or prevent the flexible bladder 140 from exerting a significant axial force on the distal end of an inserted finger.
For example, once a finger has been positioned in the finger cavity 120, a blocking member may be inserted through the auxiliary opening 127 and advanced until it is adjacent or abutting the distal tip of the inserted finger.

[0081] Once the finger is positioned in the finger cavity 120 and a source of fluid is coupled to the fluid inlet 150, e.g. as shown in Figure 9, fluid may be introduced into the inflation chamber 130. (For ease of illustration, the source of fluid is not shown in Figures 10 to 12.) As illustrated in Figure 11, the continued introduction of fluid into the inflation chamber 130 results in the interior wall 147 of the flexible bladder 140 being urged towards and into contact with the finger. Once the inflation chamber 130 has expanded to fill substantially all of the finger cavity (e.g. as illustrated in Figure 12), further introduction of fluid into the inflation chamber 130 results in an increased pressure being applied to the exterior of the finger by the interior wall 147 of the flexible bladder 140.

[0082] Once the pressure in the inflation chamber 130 is within a target pressure range and/or has reached a target pressure, the introduction of fluid into the inflation chamber may be halted. The target pressure range and/or target pressure may be selected to promote a (net) flow of endemic fluid from the finger into the hand and/or surrounding tissue, without causing damage to the tissue of the finger and/or causing excessive discomfort. For example, the target pressure may be from approximately 0 to 350, mmHg, or about 300 mmHg. While the application of higher pressures (e.g. up to 800 mmHg) to an inserted finger may promote a marginally higher (net) flow of endemic fluid, it is thought that such increases in flow rate will be minor. It is also expected that there may be significant discomfort associated with the application of such elevated pressures, which may make their application undesirable.

[0083] For example, where a pressure gauge, such as fluid pressure gauge 160, is provided, fluid may be introduced into the inflation chamber 130 until the pressure gauge provides an indication that a desired pressure has been reached. For example, using the example illustrated in Figure 13, fluid may be introduced into the inflation chamber until the line 166 is aligned with the "OK" reference mark 163 provided adjacent the viewing window 169. Patient discomfort may also be a consideration in determining when a suitable pressure has been reached.

[0084] Once a desired pressure has been reached, the compression device may remain on the finger for a length of time. During this time, the sustained application of pressure to the finger may force endemic fluid from the finger into the hand and .. surrounding tissue, thereby reducing the volume and/or the maximum diameter of the finger.

[0085] As the volume of the finger is reduced, the pressure applied to the finger by the compression device may be reduced. A reduction in pressure may lead to a reduced (net) flow rate of endemic fluid, which may lessen the amount of fluid the compression .. device 100 can remove from the finger in a given time period. Preferably, a pressure gauge, such as fluid pressure gauge 160 may be monitored during the finger compression.
If the pressure is observed to drop below an acceptable threshold, additional fluid may be introduced into the inflation chamber to return the pressure to the target pressure and/or to within the target pressure range.

[0086] After pressure has been applied to the finger for a desired period of time, and/or once the volume of the finger has been reduced to a target level, fluid may be removed from the inflation chamber and the finger subsequently removed from the finger cavity 120. For example, a collapsed syringe 170 may be used to evacuate fluid from the inflation chamber via the fluid inlet 150. For rapid pressure relief, the plunger of syringe 170 may be removed while the syringe remains coupled to the fluid inlet 150, allowing the inflation chamber to vent to atmosphere via the syringe body. Alternatively, the source of fluid may be decoupled and the check valve 151 may be depressed or otherwise actuated to allow the inflation chamber 130 to vent to atmosphere.

[0087] Once the finger is removed from the inflation chamber, distal traction should be immediately applied to the (formerly) 'stuck' ring in an effort to slide the ring towards and ultimately past the distal end of the finger. The reduced diameter of the finger should facilitate removal of the ring.

[0088] If the ring remains stuck, the finger may be re-positioned in the finger cavity, and the inflation chamber re-inflated in order to increase the amount and/or duration of pressure applied to the finger.

[0089] Figures 14 to 18 illustrate an alternative embodiment of a compression device 100. In this example, three inflation chambers are provided in the finger cavity. As shown in Figure 16, the inflation chambers are longitudinally spaced along the finger cavity 120, with a distal inflation chamber 130a comprising a distal bladder 140a positioned at the body distal end 104, a proximal inflation chamber 130c comprising a proximal bladder 140c positioned at the body proximal end 102, and a central inflation chamber 130b comprising a central bladder 140b positioned between the distal inflation chamber 103a and the proximal inflation chamber 130c. Alternatively, only two inflation chambers may be provided (e.g. a distal inflation chamber positioned adjacent a proximal inflation chamber).
Alternatively, four or more inflation chambers may be provided.

[0090] Each inflation chamber 130a to 130c may be in fluid communication with the fluid inlet 150 of the compression device 100 via a fluid flow path 155. In this way, fluid introduced to the compression device 100 via the fluid inlet 155 may be directed towards the interior of each inflation chamber 130a, 130b, 130c.

[0091] Optionally, one or more valves or other flow control devices may be provided to control a flow of fluid to the inflation chambers. For example, in the illustrated example a first orifice plate 153a is provided in the fluid flow path between the fluid inlet 150 and the central inflation chamber 130b, and a second orifice plate 153b is provided in the fluid flow path between the central inflation chamber 130b and the proximal inflation chamber 130c.

As another example, in the schematic pressure circuit example shown in Figure 20, an orifice plate 153 is provided between the fluid inlet 150 and the proximal bladder 140b.

[0092] An advantage of providing flow control devices in the fluid flow path 155 is that as fluid is introduced to the device via the fluid inlet 150, the first orifice plate 153a may restrict the flow rate of fluid along the fluid flow path, causing the flow rate into the distal inflation chamber 130a to be greater than the flow rate of fluid to the central inflation chamber 130b. Similarly, the second orifice plate 153b may restrict the flow rate of fluid along the fluid flow path, causing the flow rate into the central inflation chamber 130b to be greater than the flow rate of fluid to the proximal inflation chamber 130c. In this way, a positive pressure gradient may be developed along the length of the finger from the distal end of the finger to the proximal end of the finger, which may inhibit or prevent endemic fluid from flowing towards the tip of the finger.

[0093] In one or more alternative embodiments, a separate fluid inlet may be provided for each inflation chamber 130a, 130b, and/or 130c. In such embodiments, fluid may be introduced to each inflation chamber in a manner suitable to promote a positive pressure gradient along the length of the finger.

[0094] Optionally, one or more flexible bladders 140 may be removably secured within the body or housing 110 of the compression device. For example, as illustrated in Figures 16 to 18, a removable bladder element 180 may include a flexible tubular bladder 140 and a rigid bladder mounting portion 185. Optionally, a portion of the air flow path 155 may be provided in the rigid bladder mounting portion 185. In the illustrated example, the rigid bladder mounting portion 185 has an engagement feature in the form of a longitudinal groove 183 that cooperates with a complementary engagement feature in the form of a longitudinal ridge (not shown) to facilitate the insertion and/or removal of the removable bladder element 185. An optional removable bladder retaining member 187 may be provided to retain bladder element 180 in an inserted position. An optional biasing member such a spring 189 may be provided to urge the bladder element 180 to a partially removed position upon removal of retaining member 187.

[0095] An advantage of providing one or more removable bladders is that the bladder element 180 may be removed and optionally disposed after the device has been used on a finger of a first patient, and new or cleaned bladder element 180 may be installed in the device 100 prior to its use on a patient and/or second finger. This may reduce operational cost associated with use of the device, as the housing and/or pressure monitoring system may be reused.

[0096] Referring to Figure 21, in order to assess the functionality of a finger compressing device similar to device 100, a testing model was developed to simulate the difficulties encountered by doctors in the ER without involving human testing.
The testing model, an analogue for a human finger, was made using a 3-part urethane casting technique developed specifically for this application. As shown in Figure 21, a hard urethane 210 was used for the bone, a soft open-cell foam 220 was used for the intermediary flesh, and a thin urethane rubber 230 with mechanical properties similar to that of human skin was used for the outer skin of the model 200. Water was used to simulate blood and edema flow through the open cell foam.

[0097] Several medical professionals with training in conventional ring removal techniques attempted to remove entrapped rings from the model using both conventional techniques and a finger compressing device similar to device 100.

[0098] Testing indicated that the finger compressing device did not cause lacerations to the outer skin of the testing model 200. In contrast, the conventional string method occasionally caused lacerations to the test model. Medical professionals confirmed that lacerations occasionally occur using the string method on patients, suggesting the testing model was a suitable analogue. This also suggests that removing a ring using compression device 100 may in some cases be safer than conventional ring removal methods.

[0099] Testing also indicated that use of the finger compressing device resulted in more rapid removal of stuck rings. For example, the engagement time (i.e. the time until compression of the finger was effected), for the tested device was lower than for the conventional string method. Also, the volume of fluid evacuated from the finger model using the tested devise was greater than for the conventional string method.

[00100] As used herein, the wording "and/or" is intended to represent an inclusive - or.
That is, "X and/or Y" is intended to mean X or Y or both, for example. As a further example, "X, Y, and/or Z" is intended to mean X or Y or Z or any combination thereof.

[00101] While the above description describes features of example embodiments, it will be appreciated that some features and/or functions of the described embodiments are susceptible to modification without departing from the spirit and principles of operation of the described embodiments. For example, the various characteristics which are described by means of the represented embodiments or examples may be selectively combined with each other. Accordingly, what has been described above is intended to be illustrative of the claimed concept and non-limiting. It will be understood by persons skilled in the art that other variants and modifications may be made without departing from the scope of the invention as defined in the claims appended hereto. The scope of the claims should not be limited by the preferred embodiments and examples, but should be given the broadest interpretation consistent with the description as a whole.

Claims

CLAIMS:

1. A compression device for freeing a ring trapped on a finger, the compression device comprising:
a rigid outer body extending from a body proximal end to a body distal end, the rigid outer body comprising:
a finger cavity extending from a cavity opening at the body proximal end towards the body distal end, a fluid inlet, and a fluid flow path fluidly connecting the fluid inlet to one or more inflation chambers positioned in the finger cavity, wherein the body proximal end comprises an upper portion, a lower portion, and two laterally spaced-apart side portions, each side portion connecting the upper portion to the lower portion, at least one side portion being distally recessed as compared to the upper and lower portions to accommodate an interdigital fold; and at least one flexible bladder lining the finger cavity, each flexible bladder defining at least one wall of one of the inflation chambers.

2. The compression device of claim 1, wherein each side portion is distally recessed as compared to the upper and lower portions.

3. The compression device of claim 1 or claim 2, further comprising a fluid pressure gauge rigidly connected to the body and fluidly connected to the fluid flow path.

4. The compression device of claim 3, wherein the pressure gauge includes a pressure indicator movable in response to fluid pressure within the fluid flow path, and a visual indicium identifying a position of the pressure indicator corresponding to a target pressure.

5. The compression device of claim 4, wherein the pressure gauge is housed in the rigid outer body.

6. The compression device of claim 4, wherein the visual indicium is provided on the rigid outer body.

7. The compression device of any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the rigid outer body defines at least one wall of each of the inflation chambers.

8. The compression device of any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the finger cavity has a closed distal end.

9. The compression device of any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the fluid inlet is at the body distal end.

10. The compression device of any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the fluid inlet comprises a normally-closed valve that is openable by connecting a fluid source.

11. The compression device of any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein the finger cavity has a substantially cylindrical cross-sectional shape.

12. The compression device of any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein the upper and lower portions extend proximally of the two side portions.

13. The compression device of any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein the at least one inflation chamber comprises a first inflation chamber and a second inflation chamber, and further comprising a flow control valve in the fluid flow path between the first inflation chamber and the second inflation chamber.

14. The compression device of claim 13, wherein the flow control valve is an orifice valve.

15. The compression device of any one of claims 1 to 14, wherein the rigid outer body is at least one of translucent or transparent.

16. The compression device of claim 15, wherein at least one of the inflation chambers is at least one of translucent or transparent.

17. The compression device of any one of claims 1 to 16, further comprising a pressure relief valve in fluid communication with the fluid flow path, and openable to atmosphere in response to a predetermined excessive fluid pressure within the fluid flow path.

18. The compression device of any one of claims 1 to 17, wherein the flexible bladder comprises a tubular sheet extending from a sheet proximal portion to a sheet distal portion, each of the sheet proximal portion and sheet distal portion being sealed fluid tight to the rigid outer body.