CN112203621A

CN112203621A - Device and method for pressing on a toe portion to facilitate removal of a ring

Info

Publication number: CN112203621A
Application number: CN201980035717.0A
Authority: CN
Inventors: B·麦基尔; M·兰德瑞; C·汤普森; P·亨尼西; K·斯潘塞; R·N·普拉特; W·迪克; M·布朗
Original assignee: Ring Rescue Co
Current assignee: Ring Rescue Co
Priority date: 2018-03-29
Filing date: 2019-03-12
Publication date: 2021-01-08
Anticipated expiration: 2039-03-12
Also published as: EP3755279A1; CN112203621B; EP3755279A4; CA2999658A1

Abstract

A compression device for removing a ring caught on a digit of a finger includes a rigid outer body. The rigid outer body includes a toe cavity extending from a cavity opening at a body proximal end of the body toward a body distal end of the body, a fluid inlet, and a fluid flow path fluidly connecting the fluid inlet to one or more expansion chambers located in the toe cavity. The body proximal end includes an upper portion, a lower portion, and two laterally spaced apart side portions. At least one of the side portions is recessed distally as compared to the upper and lower portions to accommodate the interphalangeal folds. At least one flexible bladder lines the toe cavity, each flexible bladder defining at least one wall of one of the one or more expansion chambers.

Description

Device and method for pressing on a toe portion to facilitate removal of a ring

Technical Field

The present application relates generally to devices and methods for removing a ring or other hand/foot jewelry from a digit (i.e., finger, thumb or toe) and, more particularly, to devices and methods employing a rigid outer body into which the digit may be inserted and a bladder that may selectively apply pressure to the surface of the inserted digit to facilitate compression thereof.

Background

In hospital emergency rooms around the world, it is commonplace to remove hand/foot jewelry. In many, if not most cases, instances of toe swelling and/or associated hand/foot or arm/leg swelling, the ring must be removed from the patient's toe. In the event that the ring cannot be easily removed, the removal process can be time consuming and in some cases can compromise the health of the patient.

In cases where the ring is not easily removed from the swollen digit of the patient, there are two widely accepted methods of removing the ring: the "loop cutter method" and the "string method". In the ring cutter method, a finger ring is cut using, for example, a small rotary saw, and then mechanically deformed to be removed from the toe portion. In the string method, a string or an elastically contractible material (e.g., Penrose tube) is tightly wrapped over the swollen digit to press the digit against it to sufficiently reduce swelling so that the ring can be removed by sliding it outward and eventually past the distal end of the digit.

Disclosure of Invention

The following introduction is provided to introduce the reader to the more detailed discussion that follows. The introduction is not intended to limit or define any claimed or not yet claimed invention. One or more inventions may reside in any combination or subcombination of elements or process steps disclosed in any portion of this document including the claims and drawings hereof.

According to one aspect of the present disclosure, a compression device for removing a ring captured or "caught" on a digit of a finger includes a rigid outer body or shell; a toe cavity in which a toe portion with a ring worn thereon can be placed; and an expansion chamber located within the toe chamber. When the swollen digit is located in the cavity, the expansion chamber can be inflated to apply pressure to the exterior of the digit and maintain the pressure, thereby promoting compression of the digit by forcing localized fluid from the digit into the hand/foot and surrounding tissue. Once the volume and/or maximum diameter of the digit is reduced, the digit can be removed from the device and the ring can be removed by sliding the ring toward and eventually over the distal end of the digit.

The advantage of the described design is that the device can be positioned around the toe portion in a relatively simple manner, once it is determined to be required or desired, the time required to start pressing on the toe portion can be reduced.

Another advantage of said design is that the device may allow to apply a relatively uniform pressure on the whole of the toe in a relatively simple manner, for example with respect to the whole of the toe. The time and/or skill required to perform the string method is not required. This allows medically untrained personnel (e.g., jewelry shop personnel) to safely and successfully perform the operation of removing the ring.

Another advantage is that the device may allow a relatively uniform pressure to be maintained on the digit portion during compression thereof. For example, after the initial application of pressure, the volume of the digit may begin to decrease as the localized fluid is pressurized from the digit. By allowing the volume and/or pressure of the fluid within the expansion chamber to increase as the volume of the digit inserted decreases, a relatively constant pressure may be maintained at the exterior of the digit as the volume of the digit decreases. This may increase the amount of localized liquid that the device may remove from the digit over a given period of time. Thus, the apparatus can be used to quickly perform a annulus removal procedure.

Preferably, the opening of the toe cavity has at least one side that is concave towards the distal end of the compression device. The recess (also referred to as hollow) may allow the digit section to be positioned deeper into the digit cavity, e.g., placed in the digit cavity. By receiving the interphalangeal folds of the digit (also known as the toe web). An advantage of this design is that the expansion chamber may enclose more of the digit, which may allow most or preferably substantially all of the digit to be compressed. This may be particularly advantageous for removing loops trapped at or near the bottom of the fingertip, i.e. typical locations for wearing loops.

Optionally, two or more expansion chambers may be provided in the digit 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 digit length. For example, pressure may be applied first to the distal end of the digit, and while maintaining this initial pressure, pressure may be applied subsequently to the proximal end of the digit. This may promote a positive pressure gradient along the length of the inserted digit (which gradient increases from the distal end to the proximal end), inhibiting or preventing localized fluid flow to and/or accumulation at the distal end of the digit.

According to a broad aspect, there is provided a compression device for removing a ring trapped on a digit of a finger, the compression device comprising: a rigid outer body extending from a proximal end of the body to a distal end of the body, the rigid outer body comprising: a toe cavity extending from a cavity opening at the proximal end of the body to the distal end of the body; a fluid inlet; and a fluid flow path fluidly connecting the fluid inlet to one or more expansion chambers located in the toe cavity, wherein the proximal end of the body comprises an upper portion, a lower portion and two laterally spaced side portions, each side portion connecting the upper portion to the lower portion, at least one side portion being recessed distally compared to the upper portion and the lower portion to accommodate the interphalangeal folds; at least one flexible bladder lines the toe cavity, each flexible bladder defining at least one wall of an inflation chamber.

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

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.

In some embodiments, the pressure gauge includes a pressure indicator movable in response to fluid pressure within the fluid flow path, and a visual marker identifying a location of the pressure indicator corresponding to a target pressure.

In some embodiments, the pressure gauge is housed in a rigid outer body.

In some embodiments, the visual indicia is disposed on the rigid outer body.

In some embodiments, the rigid outer body defines at least one wall of each expansion chamber.

In some embodiments, the toe cavity has a closed distal end.

In some embodiments, the fluid inlet is at a distal end of the body.

In some embodiments, the fluid inlet comprises a normally closed valve that is openable by connection to a source of fluid.

In some embodiments, the toe cavity has a substantially cylindrical cross-sectional shape.

In some embodiments, the upper and lower portions extend proximally of both side portions.

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

In some embodiments, the flow control valve is a throttle valve.

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

In some embodiments, at least one of the expansion chambers is at least one of translucent or transparent.

In some embodiments, the compression device further includes a pressure relief valve in fluid communication with the fluid flow path and openable to the atmosphere in response to a predetermined excess fluid pressure within the fluid flow path.

In some embodiments, the flexible pouch comprises a tubular sheet extending from a sheet proximal end portion to a sheet distal end portion, each of the sheet proximal end portion and the sheet distal end portion being sealed to be fluid-tight with the rigid outer body.

One skilled in the art will appreciate that the apparatus or methods disclosed herein may embody any one or more of the features contained herein, and that these features may be used in any specific combination or sub-combination.

These and other aspects and features of various embodiments are described in more detail below.

Drawings

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:

FIG. 1 is an example of a swollen digit with a ring "stuck" on the digit;

FIG. 2 is a schematic view of the removal of the ring from the swollen digit by cutting the ring;

FIG. 3 is a schematic view of the ring removed by pressing on the digit using a string;

FIG. 4 is a perspective view of a compression device according to one embodiment;

FIG. 5 is a side view of the compression device of FIG. 4;

FIG. 6 is a top view of the compression device of FIG. 4;

FIG. 7 is an end view of the proximal end of the compression device of FIG. 4;

FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view of the compression device of FIG. 4 taken along line 8-8 in FIG. 7;

FIG. 9 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the compression device of FIG. 4 with a source of pressurized fluid connected to the compression device and the digit portion disposed in the digit cavity;

FIG. 10 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the compression device of FIG. 4 with the digit portion located in the digit cavity and the expansion chamber in an unexpanded state;

FIG. 11 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the compression device and finger toe portion of FIG. 11 with the expansion chamber in a partially expanded state;

FIG. 12 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the compression device and finger toe portion of FIG. 11 with the expansion chamber in an expanded state;

FIG. 13 is a schematic view of a pressure indicator of the manometer;

FIG. 14 is a perspective view of a compression device according to another embodiment;

FIG. 15 is an end view of the proximal end of the compression device of FIG. 14;

FIG. 16 is a cross-sectional view of the compression device of FIG. 14 taken along line 16-16 in FIG. 15;

FIG. 17 is a perspective view of the compression device of FIG. 14 with the flexible bladder partially removed from the toe chamber;

fig. 18 is a perspective view of the compression device of fig. 14 with the flexible bladder removed from the toe chamber;

FIG. 19 is a schematic view of a pressure circuit for the compression device;

FIG. 20 is a schematic view of another pressure circuit of the compression device;

FIG. 21 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a digit test model for evaluating a digit compression device;

fig. 22 is a perspective view of a device body according to another embodiment;

FIG. 23 is a top view of the device body of FIG. 22;

FIG. 24 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 24-24 of FIG. 23;

FIG. 25 is a side view of the device body of FIG. 22;

FIG. 26 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 26-26 of FIG. 23;

FIG. 27 is a perspective view of the digit pressing device connected to a fluid source according to another embodiment;

FIG. 28 is a side view of the digit pressing device of FIG. 27 being worn on the digit;

fig. 29 is a perspective view of the finger toe press device of fig. 27;

fig. 30 is a side view of a device body with a disengaged pouch engagement member according to one embodiment;

FIG. 31 is a side view of the device body of FIG. 30 with a tubular pouch inserted;

fig. 32 is a perspective view of the device body of fig. 30 with a tubular pouch inserted;

fig. 33 is a cross-sectional view of a device body having a tubular pouch folded over its outer surface according to one embodiment;

FIG. 34 is a cross-sectional view of the finger toe press according to one embodiment;

fig. 35 is a side view of a tubular bladder with an integrated gasket according to one embodiment;

FIG. 36 is a perspective view of the digit pressing device connected to a fluid source according to another embodiment;

FIG. 37 is a perspective view of the digit pressing device connected to a fluid source according to another embodiment;

FIG. 38 is a schematic diagram of an electronic control system according to an embodiment;

FIG. 39 is a schematic view of a display of the electronic control system of FIG. 38 showing progression through finger toe compression, according to one embodiment;

FIG. 40 is a perspective view of a digit press device connected to a fluid source and communicatively connected to an external mobile device, in accordance with another embodiment;

FIG. 41 is an exploded view of a finger toe press according to one embodiment;

FIG. 42 is the toe press of FIG. 41 with a pocket inserted therein;

FIG. 43 is the toe press of FIG. 41 with the bladder mounted; and

fig. 44 is the finger toe press of fig. 41 fully assembled.

The drawings included herein are for the purpose of illustrating various examples of articles, methods and apparatus of the teachings of the present specification and are not intended to limit the scope of the teachings in any way.

Detailed Description

Various apparatuses, methods and compositions are described below to provide examples of embodiments of each claimed invention. The embodiments described below do not limit any claimed invention, and any claimed invention may cover apparatuses and methods different from those described below. The claimed invention is not limited to devices, methods, and compositions having all of the features of any one of the devices, methods, or compositions described below, nor to features common to many or all of the devices, methods, or compositions described below. The apparatus, methods, or compositions described below may not be embodiments of any claimed invention. Any invention not claimed in this document, disclosed in the apparatus, methods or compositions described below, may be the subject of another protective apparatus, e.g., a continuing patent application, and the applicant, inventor and/or owner do not intend to disclaim, reject or dedicate any such invention to the public by disclosing it in this document.

Further, 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. Moreover, this description is not to be taken as limiting the scope of the example embodiments described herein.

The terms "embodiment," "embodiments," "the embodiment," "one or more embodiments," "some embodiments," and "one embodiment" mean "one or more" (but not all) embodiments of the invention, unless expressly specified otherwise.

The term "include" and its variants mean "including, but not limited to," unless expressly specified otherwise. The listing of items does not imply that any or all of the items are mutually exclusive, unless expressly stated otherwise. The terms "a", "an" and "the" mean "one or more", unless expressly specified otherwise.

As used herein and in the claims, two or more parts are referred to as "coupled," "connected," "attached," "engaged," "secured," or "fastened" where the parts are engaged or operated (as long as a link is formed, whether directly or indirectly (i.e., through one or more intermediate portions) together "rigidly connected", "rigidly attached", "rigidly joined", "rigidly fixed", or "rigidly fastened". The terms "coupled," "connected," "attached," "engaged," "secured," and "fastened" do not distinguish the manner in which two or more parts are coupled together.

Further, although the method steps (in the present application and/or claims) may be described in a sequential order, such methods may be configured to work in alternate orders. In other words, any order in which steps may be described does not necessarily imply that the steps are required to be performed in that order. The steps of the methods described herein may be performed in any practical order. Furthermore, some steps may be performed simultaneously.

As used herein and in the claims, a first element is said to be "communicatively connected" or "communicatively connected" to a second element, wherein the first element is configured to send or receive electronic signals (e.g., data) to or from the second element, and the second element is configured to receive or send electronic signals from or to the first element. The communication may be wired (e.g., the first and second elements are connected by one or more data cables) or wireless (e.g., at least one of the first and second elements has a wireless transmitter and at least the other of the first and second elements has a wireless receiver). The electronic signal may be analog or digital. The communication may be unidirectional or bidirectional. In some cases, the communication may conform to one or more standard protocols (e.g., SPI, I)²C，Bluetooth^TMOr IEEE^TM802.11)。

As used herein and in the claims, a group of elements is said to perform an action "collectively," where the action is performed by any one element of the group, or by two or more (or all) elements of the group in cooperation.

Certain elements herein may be identified by a part number that is followed by a base followed by a letter or a subscript numeric suffix (e.g., 112a or 112 a)₁) And (4) forming. Multiple elements herein may be composed of a common base and differ in suffix (e.g., 112)₁、112₂And 112₃) The part number of (c) is marked. All elements having a common base may collectively or universally reference a base without a suffix (e.g., 112).

Fig. 1 depicts a ring 10 "stuck" on a swollen digit 20 that cannot be removed by pulling or mechanically pushing the ring toward the distal end of the digit without damaging the digit and/or causing pain or discomfort. If the ring is not easily removed from the swollen digit or thumb, there are two widely used methods of removing the ring: the "loop cutter method" and the "string method".

In the ring cutter method, a small rotary saw (such as saw 30 shown in fig. 2) is used to cut the ring 10, which is then mechanically deformed to remove it from the digit. While this approach may be effective in many cases, it is difficult or impractical to use on certain rings (e.g., rings made of a particularly hard material such as tungsten), or if the geometry of the ring, finger toe and/or hand/foot makes it difficult or impractical to place a cutting blade to cut the ring without cutting or otherwise damaging the surrounding tissue. This method can also lead to ring damage.

In the string method, the string 40 is tightly wrapped around the swollen digit 20 to compress the digit (e.g., as shown in fig. 3) in an effort to reduce the swelling sufficiently so that the ring 10 can be removed by sliding the ring outward, and eventually over the distal end of the digit. While this approach may be effective in many situations, a great deal of skill and/or skill may be required to effectively wrap the string. It may also take a significant amount of time to properly wrap the string, which may be problematic where time is critical.

Fig. 4 shows a compression device, generally designated 100, for removing a ring trapped or "caught" on the toe or thumb of a finger. The compression apparatus 100 includes: a rigid outer body 110 (which may also be referred to as a rigid housing or a rigid body); a toe chamber 120 into which the toe portion with the ring captured therein can be placed, and an expansion chamber 130 located in the toe chamber. When the swollen digit is located in the digit cavity, the expansion chamber can be inflated to apply pressure to the exterior of the digit and maintain the pressure, thereby promoting pressure on the digit by forcing localized fluid from the digit into the hand and surrounding tissue.

Referring now to fig. 4-8, body 110 of compression device 100 has a body proximal end 102 and a body distal end 104. An opening 125 of the toe chamber 120 is provided at the body proximal end 102. When the digit is placed in the digit cavity, the body proximal end 102 covers the proximal end of the digit, and the body distal end 104 of the body is located at or near the distal end of the inserted digit.

In the example shown, an auxiliary opening 127 is provided at the body distal end 104 to provide access to the toe cavity 120. For example, when the digit is inserted into opening 125 at the proximal end 102 of the body, fluid (e.g., air) can be expelled from the digit cavity 120 via the secondary opening 127. Alternatively, the body distal end 104 may be substantially or completely closed such that the toe cavity 120 is inaccessible from the body distal end 104. Fig. 22-24 illustrate an embodiment of the body 110 in which the body distal end 104 is partially closed. As shown, the body distal end 104 may include a secondary opening 127 having a width (e.g., diameter) 304. The width 304 may be less than 60% of the toe cavity width 308 at the body distal end 104 (e.g., between 5% and 60% of the toe cavity width 308).

In the example shown, the toe cavity opening 125 includes an upper portion 122 and a lower portion 124. The first side 123a and the second side 123b each connect the upper portion 122 to the lower portion 124. At least one of the

side portions

123a, 123b is recessed distally relative to the upper and

lower portions

122, 124. Providing recessed side 123 can allow compression device 100 to be located on most or substantially all of the digit portions, as the recessed side can accommodate, for example, inter-digit folds (inter-digital folds) between adjacent digit portions.

In the example shown, the two

side portions

123a, 123b are recessed distally by the same distance D_{Concave part}Although it will be appreciated that the

side portions

123a, 123b may be recessed by different distances. For example, fig. 25 shows an embodiment in which side 123a is recessed more distally than side 123 b. That is, the recess 312a of the side portion 123a has a recess distal end 316b closer to the body tip 104 than the recess 312bA concave distal end 316a (e.g., a concave apex). An advantage of this design is that it may allow the digit section to be placed deeper into the digit cavity. For example, the inter-digit folds on either side of one digit are generally not aligned-rather, one inter-digit fold is generally located proximal to the other digit. Different recess distances D of the recesses 312a and 312b_{Concave part}May help the subject 110 better conform to the anatomical relationship.

Recess distance D_{Concave part}And can be any distance suitable to at least partially accommodate the interphalangeal folds of the digit. In some embodiments, the recess distance D_{Concave part}May be between 5mm and 40 mm. Groove distance D between grooves 312a and 312b_{Concave part}In various embodiments, the difference (e.g., the difference in distance between the distal end 316 of each groove and the distal end 104 of the body) may be between 2mm and 25 mm.

In some embodiments, only one side portion may be distally recessed.

Additionally, in the example shown, the two

side portions

123a, 123b have the same profile (e.g., as shown in fig. 5), but it should be understood that they may have different profiles in alternative embodiments.

Referring to fig. 22 and 26, in some embodiments, the body 110 has an outer surface 320 that includes one or two lateral recesses 324. Each lateral recess 324 provides some accommodation for the digit adjacent to the digit within the digit cavity 120. This may make wearing the compression device 100 more comfortable. As shown, each lateral recess 324 may extend from a respective side 123 of the body proximal end 102. This may provide a toe receiving space at the bottom of the wearer's toe, where the toe is connected to the hand/foot. There is little ability to expand the distance between the proximal ends of the digit portions to accommodate compression device 100 when worn as compared to the distal ends of the digit portions.

As shown, the lateral recess 324 may extend the entire length of the body 110 or may extend a portion of the length of the body 110. In the example shown, the lateral recess 324 has an axial length 328 that is less than the length of the body. As shown, the distal end 332 of each lateral recess 324 may be spaced apart from the body distal end 104. For example, the lateral recess distal end 332 may be spaced apart from the body distal end 104 by a distance 336 that is 15% or greater (e.g., between 15% and 50%) of the body length 340.

Each lateral recess 324 may have any depth 344 suitable for receiving at least a portion of an adjacent digit. In some embodiments, the depth 344 is at least 3mm (e.g., between 3mm and 10 mm).

Referring to fig. 8, the expansion chamber 130 is disposed in the toe cavity. In the example shown, the expansion chamber is defined by the inner surface 126 of the body 110 and the flexible bladder 140. In the embodiment shown in fig. 8, the pouch 140 comprises a flexible tubular sheet 145, wherein a distal portion 144 of the flexible tubular sheet 145 is secured at the distal end 104 of the body 110 and a proximal portion 142 of the flexible tubular sheet 145 is secured at the proximal end 102 of the body 110. In this example, the sheet 145 of the bladder 140 forms an inner wall 147 of the expansion chamber 130.

Expansion chamber 130 is in fluid communication with fluid inlet 150 of compression device 100 through fluid flow path 155. In this manner, fluid introduced to compression device 100 via fluid inlet 150 is directed directly into the interior of expansion chamber 130. Since the inner surface 126 of the rigid body 110 is relatively inflexible compared to the flexible sheet 145, when fluid is introduced into the expansion chamber 130, the flexible sheet 145 is forced inwardly and toward the longitudinal axis 129 of the toe cavity 120. So that the flexible sheet 145 can apply pressure to the toe portion located in the toe cavity 120.

In an alternative arrangement (not shown), the bladder 140 may define substantially all of the walls of the expansion chamber, e.g., one wall of the bladder faces or abuts the inner surface 126 of the rigid body 110 and another wall of the bladder faces the interior of the toe cavity 120. In this arrangement, as fluid is introduced into the flexible bladder 140, the bladder wall toward the interior of the toe chamber 120 is forced toward the longitudinal axis 129 of the toe chamber 120 (the bladder wall toward or abutting the inner surface 126 of the rigid body 110 is bounded by the housing inner surface 126).

The flexible pouch 140 may be made of any suitable material, such as silicone, elastomer, polyvinyl chloride (PVC) film, and the like. Preferably, at least the inner wall 147 of the flexible pouch is of a biocompatible material that is not expected to irritate or react with the skin of the digit of the inserted finger. Alternatively, the flexible pouch 140 may be made of a translucent or substantially transparent material, such as a translucent or transparent silicone elastomer. Providing a translucent or transparent pouch 140 may facilitate viewing of the inserted digit, particularly if the rigid body 110 is made of a translucent or substantially transparent material. As used herein, a material is referred to as "translucent" or "at least translucent" in that at least 25% of incident visible light can pass through the material. As used herein, a material is referred to as "transparent" or "substantially transparent" in that at least 75% of incident visible light can pass through the material.

Optionally, a flow control device (e.g., a valve) may be provided between the fluid inlet 150 and the fluid flow path 155. For example, as shown in fig. 8, a normally-closed check valve 151 may be provided to prevent fluid from flowing out of the flow path 155 via the fluid inlet 150.

Additionally or alternatively, a manual valve may be provided between the fluid inlet 150 and the fluid flow path 155. For example, in the illustrative pressure circuit example shown in fig. 19, a manual valve 152 is provided between the check valve 151 and the fluid flow path 155.

Optionally, a fluid pressure gauge may be connected to compression device 100 to provide an indication of the fluid pressure within expansion chamber 130. For example, as shown in fig. 4-8, a fluid pressure gauge 160 may be provided on the upper end of compression device 100. As shown in fig. 8, a fluid pressure gauge 160 is in fluid communication with the fluid flow path 155. In the example shown, as the fluid pressure in the fluid flow path 155 increases, the slider 165 is urged against the compression spring 167. The viewing window 169 allows visual observation of the relative position of the slider 165 (see fig. 13). It should be appreciated that the pressure gauge may be of any other type suitable for providing an indication of internal fluid pressure to a user.

Optionally, the pressure gauge may include visual indicia for a target pressure range and/or target pressure for the expansion chamber. For example, as shown in FIG. 13, the slider 165 has a line 166 or other visual reference mark, and marks 163 such as "HI", "OK", and "LO" are provided near the viewing window 169. It should be understood that any suitable visual indicia may alternatively and/or additionally be provided. For example, one or more colors may be provided in place of text labels.

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 expansion chamber from exerting excessive force on the inserted digit and/or damaging the pressing device. For example, in the illustrative pressure circuit example shown in fig. 19, a pressure relief valve 159 is provided near fluid pressure gauge 160.

The rigid body 110 may be made of any suitable material, such as metal, plastic, thermoplastic, composite materials (e.g., carbon fiber), and the like. Alternatively, the body 110 may be made of a translucent or substantially transparent material, such as a translucent or transparent plastic or thermoplastic. Providing a translucent or transparent body 110 may facilitate viewing of the expansion chamber and/or the inserted digit (e.g., where the flexible pouch is also translucent or transparent). This allows the operator and patient to monitor the digit during the procedure.

The use of the compression device 100 to facilitate removal of a ring that is caught on the toe portion will now be described with reference to fig. 9 to 13.

As shown in the example shown in fig. 9, the compression device 100 is positioned relative to the digit 20, with a ring (not shown) snapped onto the digit 20 so that the digit is positioned in the digit cavity 120. Preferably, after insertion into the digit region, the interphalangeal folds (i.e., the web between adjacent digit regions) are adjacent or abut at least one of the

side portions

123a, 123b of the digit cavity opening 125. As described above, the distally concave sides allow compression device 100 to enclose most or substantially all of the inserted digit, thereby applying a compression force to most or substantially all of the inserted digit.

Optionally, a lubricant may be provided on the outer surface of the digit to be inserted and/or on the inwardly facing surface of the flexible tubular sheet 145. The lubricant may help remove the ring after the digit has been pressed by the device 100. Any suitable lubricant may be used.

As also shown in the example shown in fig. 9, a fluid source is connected to fluid inlet 150 of compression device 100. The fluid source 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 example shown, the fluid source comprises a manually actuated syringe 170, but it should be understood that any suitable fluid source may be used. For example, the injector 170 may be used to introduce cold water into the expansion chamber 130. Alternatively, a compressed air source (e.g., compressed air line, manual pneumatic pump) may be used to introduce air or other suitable gas into the expansion chamber 130.

It will be appreciated that the digit portion may be placed in the digit cavity 120 before, after, or simultaneously with connecting a fluid source to the fluid inlet 150 of the compression device 100.

With the provision of auxiliary opening 127 at body distal end 104, auxiliary opening 127 may be completely or substantially closed once the digit portion is placed in digit cavity 120. For example, a rigid tube or other suitable blocking member (not shown) may be placed in secondary opening 127 to inhibit or prevent flexible pouch 140 from exerting a significant axial force on the distal end of the inserted digit. For example, once the digit portion is placed in the digit cavity 120, the blocking member may be inserted through the secondary opening 127 and advanced until it is adjacent or abutting the distal end of the inserted digit portion.

Once the digit portion is placed in the digit cavity 120 and a fluid source is connected, for example, to the fluid inlet 150, as shown in fig. 9, fluid can be introduced into the expansion chamber 130. (for ease of illustration, the fluid source is not shown in fig. 10-12.) as shown in fig. 11, continued introduction of fluid into the expansion chamber 130 causes the inner wall 147 of the flexible bladder 140 to be pushed toward and into contact with the digit of the finger. Once the expansion chamber 130 has expanded to substantially fill the entire digit cavity (e.g., as shown in fig. 12), further introduction of fluid into the expansion chamber 130 causes the inner wall 147 of the flexible bladder 140 to apply increased pressure to the exterior of the digit.

Once the pressure in the expansion chamber 130 is within the target pressure range and/or has reached the target pressure, introduction of fluid into the expansion chamber may be stopped. The target pressure range and/or target pressure may be selected to encourage (net) local fluid flow from the digit into the hand/foot and/or surrounding tissue without damaging the tissue of the digit and/or causing excessive discomfort. For example, the target pressure may be about 0 to 350mmHg, or about 300 mmHg. The target pressure is preferably between 150mmHg and 550 mmHg. This pressure range is generally sufficient to produce target digit pressure in a reasonable time while mitigating injury or discomfort to the wearer. While applying a higher pressure (e.g., up to 800mmHg) to the inserted digit may promote a slightly higher (net) flow of local fluid, it is believed that this increase in flow rate will be minimal. Significant discomfort associated with applying such elevated pressures is also expected, which may make their application undesirable. In some cases, however, such higher pressures may be employed as desired.

For example, where a pressure gauge is provided, such as fluid pressure gauge 160, fluid may be introduced into expansion chamber 130 until the pressure gauge provides an indication that the desired pressure has been reached. For example, using the example shown in FIG. 13, fluid may be introduced into the expansion chamber until line 166 is aligned with an "OK" reference mark 163 disposed adjacent the viewing window 169. Patient discomfort may also be considered when determining when the appropriate pressure is reached.

Once the desired pressure is reached, the compression device may remain on the digit for a period of time (e.g., at least 1 minute). During this time, continued application of pressure to the digit portion forces localized fluid from the digit portion into the hand/foot and surrounding tissue, thereby reducing the volume and/or maximum diameter of the digit portion.

As the volume of the digit decreases, the pressure applied to the digit by the pressing device may decrease. The reduction in pressure may result in a reduction in the (net) flow rate of the localized fluid, which may reduce the amount of fluid removed from the digit of the compression device 100 over a given period of time. Preferably, a pressure gauge, such as fluid pressure gauge 160, may be monitored during toe compression. If the pressure is observed to drop below an acceptable threshold, additional fluid may be introduced into the expansion chamber to return the pressure to the target pressure and/or within the target pressure range.

After pressure has been applied to the digit for a desired period of time, and/or once the volume of the digit has been reduced to a target level, the fluid may be removed from the expansion chamber and the digit subsequently removed from the digit cavity 120. For example, a collapsed syringe 170 may be used to expel fluid from the expansion chamber through the fluid inlet 150. To quickly release the pressure, the plunger of the syringe 170 may be removed while the syringe remains coupled to the fluid inlet 150, allowing the expansion chamber to vent to atmosphere via the syringe body. Alternatively, the fluid source may be disconnected and the check valve 151 may be depressed or otherwise actuated to allow the expansion chamber 130 to vent to atmosphere.

Once the digit is removed from the expansion chamber, a distal traction force should be applied to the (previously) "jammed" ring immediately to cause the ring to slide towards and eventually over the distal end of the digit. The reduction in the diameter of the toe portion should facilitate the removal of the ring.

If the ring is still jammed, the digit section may be replaced in the digit cavity and the expansion chamber re-inflated to increase the amount and/or duration of pressure applied to the digit section.

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

Each expansion chamber 130 a-130 c may be in fluid communication with a fluid inlet 150 of compression device 100 via a fluid flow path 155. In this manner, fluid introduced into compression device 100 via fluid inlet 155 may flow to the interior of each

expansion chamber

130a, 130b, 130 c.

Optionally, one or more valves or other flow control devices may be provided to control the flow of fluid to the expansion chamber. For example, in the example shown, a first orifice plate 153a is disposed in the fluid flow path between fluid inlet 150 and central expansion chamber 130b, and a second orifice plate 153b is disposed in the fluid flow path between central expansion chamber 130b and proximal expansion chamber 130 c. As another example, in the illustrative pressure circuit example shown in fig. 20, an orifice plate 153 is provided between fluid inlet 150 and proximal bladder 140 b.

An advantage of providing a flow control device in the fluid flow path 155 is that when fluid is introduced into the device through the fluid inlet 150, the first orifice plate 153a will restrict the flow rate of the fluid along the fluid flow path, thereby causing the flow rate into the distal expansion chamber 130a to be greater than the flow rate of the fluid into the central expansion chamber 130 b. Similarly, the second orifice plate 153b may restrict the flow rate of fluid along the fluid flow path, thereby causing the flow rate into the central expansion chamber 130b to be greater than the fluid flow rate to the proximal expansion chamber 130 c. In this manner, a positive pressure gradient may be formed along the length of the digit from the distal end of the digit to the proximal end of the digit, which may inhibit or prevent localized fluid flow to the tip of the digit.

In one or more alternative embodiments, a separate fluid inlet may be provided for each

expansion chamber

130a, 130b, and/or 130 c. In such embodiments, the fluid may be introduced into each expansion chamber in a manner suitable to cause a positive pressure gradient along the length of the digit.

Optionally, one or more flexible bladders 140 may be removably secured within the body or housing 110 of the compression device. For example, as shown in fig. 16-18, the removable bladder component 180 may include a flexible tubular bladder 140 and a rigid bladder mounting portion 185. Alternatively, a portion of the fluid flow path 155 may be disposed in the rigid bladder mount 185. In the example shown, 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 insertion and/or removal of the removable bladder element 185. An optional removable capsular bag retaining member 187 may be provided to retain the capsular component 180 in the insertion position. An optional biasing member, such as a spring 189, may be provided to urge the capsular member 180 to a partially removed position when the retaining member 187 is removed.

An advantage of providing one or more removable pouches is that the pouch element 180 can be removed and optionally placed after the device has been used on the first patient's digit, and a new or clean pouch element 180 can be installed in the device 100 before the device 100 is used on the patient and/or second digit. Because the housing and/or pressure monitoring system may be reused, operational costs associated with using the device may be reduced. This design may also improve the hygiene of the device to conform the device to various health and safety regulations (which may vary from jurisdiction to jurisdiction).

Referring to fig. 21, to evaluate the function of a digit compression device similar to device 100, a test model was developed to simulate the difficulties encountered by a doctor in an Emergency Room (ER) without manual testing. The test model is an analogue of the human toe and was made using a three-piece polyurethane casting technique developed specifically for this application. As shown in FIG. 21, rigid polyurethane 210 is used for the bones, flexible open-cell foam 220 is used for the middle meat, and thin polyurethane rubber 230 having mechanical properties similar to those of human skin is used for the outer skin of the model 200. Blood and edema flow through the open cell foam was simulated with water.

Several medical professionals receiving training in conventional ring removal techniques attempt to remove the trapped ring from the model using conventional techniques and a finger and toe compression device similar to device 100.

Testing indicated that the toe compression device did not cut the skin of the test pattern 200. In contrast, the traditional string method occasionally results in cuts to the test model. Medical experts have demonstrated that lacerations sometimes occur on patients using the string method, indicating that the test model is a suitable analog. This also suggests that in some cases, removal of the annulus using compression device 100 may be safer than conventional annulus removal methods.

Tests have also shown that the use of a finger toe press results in faster removal of the snap ring. For example, the engagement time of the device under test (i.e., the time until the toe is compressed) is shorter than conventional string methods. Also, the amount of fluid evacuated from the toe portion model using the tested device was greater than with the conventional string method.

Referring now to fig. 27-28, a compression device 100 is shown according to another embodiment. In some cases, the profile of the ring that is stuck on the toe portion may be high. For example, wedding rings and the like often include jewels that stand high from the lower trim. If pressure is applied to such a ring by the inflated bladder, it may be uncomfortable to wear. In addition, the capsular bag may be difficult to stretch sufficiently to conform to such a loop. The illustrated embodiment of compression device 100 is designed to be worn on the wearing digit 20, adjacent to snap-ring 10. In use, the compression device 100 can compress the portion of the digit 20 adjacent to and distal of the trapped ring 10. This may allow the compression device 100 to operate on a ring having a profile that is not suitable for full toe compression.

In some embodiments, compression device 100 may include a removable bladder. Fig. 29-33 show steps for installing a new bladder into compression device 100. Beginning with fig. 29-30, the bladder engagement member 348 may be disengaged (e.g., disconnected) from the body 110. Fig. 31-32 illustrate insertion of the tubular bladder 140 into the toe cavity 120. As shown, the proximal bladder portion 142 may protrude from the lumen proximal opening 125a and the distal bladder portion 144 may protrude from the lumen distal opening 125 b. Turning to fig. 33, the proximal pouch portion 142 is shown folded over the body proximal end 102 such that the proximal pouch portion 142 overlies the body outer surface 320. Although not shown, the distal pouch portion is similarly folded over the body distal end such that the distal pouch portion covers the body outer surface 320.

Finally, fig. 34 shows the bladder engagement member 348 re-engaged with the body 110. As shown, the pouch engagement member 348 functions to press (i.e., apply a compression force) the proximal and

distal pouch portions

142, 144 against the body 110. This results in a fluid tight seal of the annular expansion chamber 130 defined between the body inner surface 126 and the bladder 140. The body 110 may include a fluid inlet 150, the fluid inlet 150 being fluidly connected to the annular expansion chamber 130. In use, a fluid (e.g., a liquid or a gas) may be forced into annular expansion chamber 130 through fluid inlet 150 to expand expansion chamber 130 to apply pressure by bladder 140 to a digit extending within digit cavity 120.

An advantage of this design is that it allows for easy insertion and sealing of the tubular pouch 140 for removal of the ring, which is then removed and discarded (or sterilized for reuse).

Fig. 41-44 illustrate steps for installing a fresh pocket in compression device 100, in accordance with at least one embodiment. Starting with fig. 41, the pouch engagement member 348 may be disengaged. Fig. 42 shows the tubular bladder 140 with the washer 352 inserted into the toe cavity 120. As shown, the proximal bladder portion 142 may protrude from the lumen proximal opening 125a and the distal bladder portion 144 may protrude from the lumen distal opening 125 b. Turning to fig. 43, the proximal pouch portion 142 is shown folded over the body proximal end 102 such that the proximal pouch portion 142 is folded over the body outer surface 320. Similarly, the distal pouch portion 144 is shown folded over the body distal end 104 such that the distal pouch portion 142 covers the body outer surface 320. Finally, fig. 44 shows the bladder engagement members 348 re-engaged with the body 110 so that they form a fluid tight seal between the proximal and distal bladder end portions and the body. As shown in fig. 43, body 110 can include retainers 402 (e.g., proximal retainer 402a and distal retainer 402b) that, when engaged with body 110, help secure engagement member 348 in place. The retainer 402 may be any member suitable for increasing the retaining force of the engagement member 348 engaging the body 110. The member 348 on the body 110 remains unchanged while maintaining the non-destructive removable connection. For example, the retainer 402 may be a protrusion from the outer surface 320 that mates with the engagement member 348 when engaged with the body 110.

The body 110 may have a short length (e.g., 10mm to 50mm) intended to allow the distal end of the digit to protrude from the cavity distal opening 125b, or have a desired extended length (e.g., greater than 50mm, such as 50mm to 150mm) to extend to or beyond the distal end of the digit. The short body 110 has an advantage in that it may be manufactured at a lower cost and may also be less restrictive to the wearer. The extended body 110 is advantageous in that it can provide compression all the way to the distal end of the toe of the wearer's finger. This may reduce some of the discomfort of wearing on the distal end of the toe portion of the finger when the distal end of the toe portion is also not compressed during surgery.

Referring to fig. 34, compression device 100 may include one or more pouch engagement members 348 that work together to seal the proximal and

distal portions

142, 144 of the pouch to the body 110. In the example shown, compression device 100 is shown to include a proximal pouch engagement member 348a for pouch proximal portion 142 and a distal pouch engagement member 348b for pouch distal portion 144.

Referring to fig. 30 and 34, each bladder engagement member 348 may have any design suitable for forming a fluid tight seal when engaged with the body 110 and

bladder portions

142, 144, and allowing the

bladder portions

142, 144 to be removed from the body 110 when disengaged. For example, the bladder engagement member 348 may have a ring-shaped body that covers the body 110 and a portion of the bladder 140 when in the engaged position. This allows the bladder engagement member 348 to exert a radially inward force on the bladder 140 and the body 110 that may form a fluid tight seal between the bladder 140 and the body 110. In the illustrated embodiment, each bladder engagement member 348 is formed as a removable annular end cap. For example, end cap 348 may be engaged by pressing end cap 348 axially over the end of body 110. The end cap 348 may be held in engagement by friction until the user forcibly (but non-destructively) disconnects the end cap 348 from the body 110. In some embodiments, the bladder engagement member 348 may be connected to the body 110 by mating threads or other means.

In some embodiments, the bladder engagement member 348 may remain connected to the body 110 in both the engaged and disengaged positions. For example, the bladder engagement member 348 may be pivotally connected to the body 110 and may pivot between an engaged position and a disengaged position.

In some embodiments, the fluid-tight seal formed when the one or more bladder engagement members 348 are engaged may be assisted by one or more gaskets (e.g., compressed by the one or more bladder engagement members 348 when engaged). Fig. 30 shows an example in which the body 110 includes a gasket 352, the gasket 352 surrounding the body outer surface 320 at a body proximal portion 356 and a distal portion 360. In use, the pouch proximal and distal end portions 142, 144 (fig. 34) may cover the respective gaskets 352, and the pouch engagement member 348 may include pouch portions 142, 144 (fig. 34) that press against the gaskets 352 to form a fluid-tight seal.

Referring to fig. 34, each pocket engagement member 348 may include one or more washers 352, as shown, instead of or in addition to the body 110 having the washer 352. In use, the gasket 352 may be pressed against the

bladder portions

142, 144 to form a fluid tight seal.

Referring to fig. 33 and 35, alternatively or in addition to the body 110 with a gasket and/or the pocket engagement member 348 with a gasket, the

pocket portions

142, 144 may have a gasket 352 (as shown in fig. 33). As shown, the pocket washer 352 may be integrally formed with or connected to the

pocket portions

142, 144 and may have a thickness greater than the adjacent pocket material. The pocket washer 352 may be located at the end of the pocket 140 as shown, or inside the end of the pocket. In use, the bladder gasket 352 may be pressed against the body 110 by the bladder engagement member 348 to form a fluid seal.

Referring to fig. 27-28, the fluid inlet 150 may be fluidly connected to a fluid source 170 to receive a pressurized fluid (e.g., a liquid or a gas) into the expansion chamber. The fluid source 170 may be any source of pressurized fluid, whether manually or power operated, suitable for expanding the expansion chambers to the target expansion pressure. For example, the fluid source 170 may be a syringe as shown in FIG. 9, or may be a powered pump (e.g., a liquid pump or an air compressor) as shown. As shown, the fluid source 170 may be connected to the inlet 150 by a fluid conduit 364. In the example shown, the fluid conduit 364 is a flexible hose. An advantage of this design is that it allows the wearer some freedom to move the associated hand/foot while performing the procedure. In an alternative embodiment, the fluid conduit 364 may be a rigid conduit, which may be more durable.

Turning to fig. 36 and 37, the fluid flow path between the fluid source 170 and the expansion chamber may include a valve 362, i.e., the valve 362 may be located upstream of the expansion chamber. The valve 362 may be opened to allow pressurized fluid to enter the expansion chamber and may be sealed to seal the pressurized fluid in the expansion chamber. One example of the valve 362 is the check valve 151 shown in fig. 16, 19 and 20. The valve 362 may be opened while pressurizing the expansion chamber and sealed after a predetermined fluid pressure is reached. The valve 362 may remain sealed for a prescribed period of time (e.g., at least 1 minute, such as 3 to 10 minutes) before venting the expansion chamber. For example, the fluid source 170 can be disconnected from the compression device 100 (e.g., by disconnecting the fluid conduit 364 or associated connector) while sealing the valve 362, thereby allowing the wearer to move freely for approximately a prescribed time until the compression process is completed. For example, wearing may perform a loop removal procedure in a jewelry store, and may stroll the store for a hold period, while the compression apparatus 100 continues to compress its digit for a prescribed period of time, while being disconnected from the fluid source 170. When the hold period has elapsed, an operator (e.g., a jewelry store clerk) may try to vent the pressurized gas from the expansion chamber (e.g., by opening valve 362) and then remove the jammed ring from the pressurized finger toe.

In some embodiments, the fluid conduit connector 366 is located upstream of the fluid inlet 150 (e.g., as in fig. 36) or at the fluid inlet 150 (e.g., as in fig. 37). The fluid conduit connector 366 may be separate from the valve 362 or may include the valve 362. Where the fluid conduit connector 366 includes a valve 362, the fluid conduit connector 366 may be automatically sealed upon disconnection (e.g., the integrated valve 362 may be a one-way valve, such as a check valve or the like), or may be manually sealed prior to disconnection (e.g., the integrated valve 362 may include a manually operated valve actuator). The fluid conduit connector 366 may retain pressurized fluid in the expansion chamber by providing a fluid tight seal when disconnected. This may allow the wearer to be completely free from the fluid source 170 while waiting a prescribed period of time to complete the compression process.

Reference is now made to fig. 27 and 38. In some embodiments, compression apparatus 100 includes an electronic control system 367. As shown, the electronic control system 367 may include a controller 368, the controller 368 configured to direct operation of the pump 372 and/or the feedback device 376, and/or may be responsive to user inputs 380 and sensors 384. For example, the controller 368 may receive an activation signal from the user input 380 and, in response, direct the pump 372 to drive such that the pump 372 supplies pressurized fluid into the expansion chamber. The controller 368 may receive a signal from a sensor 384 (e.g., a pressure sensor) indicative of the pressure within the expansion chamber and in response directly direct a feedback device 376 (e.g., an electronic display) to provide an indication of the current pressure and/or progress toward the target pressure. When the controller 368 receives a signal from the sensor 384 indicating that a predetermined target pressure within the expansion chamber has been reached, the controller 368 may direct the pump 372 to deactivate. The controller 368 may further direct the feedback device 376 to provide an indication of the remaining time of the prescribed hold time. For example, the controller 368 may direct the feedback device 376 to alert the wearer that a prescribed hold time has elapsed. The expansion chamber can then be vented, the compression device 100 removed from the compression finger toe, and the snap ring removed from the compressed finger toe.

Controller 368 may include one or more processors 388 and memory 392. Processor 388 may be any processing device suitable for performing the functions described herein. For example, processor 388 may include one or more ARM' s^TM，RISC，Intel^TMOr AMD^TMA microprocessor or an integrated circuit (e.g., a fixed or FPGA (field programmable gate array)).

Memory 392 may include volatile memory (e.g., RAM) and/or nonvolatile memory (e.g., flash memory). The memory 392 may store computer-executable instructions (also referred to as computer-readable instructions) that, when executed by the one or more processors 388, configure the one or more processors 388 to collectively perform the functions and methods described herein. Memory 392 may include local storage (connected to processor 388 by wire or wirelessly), and/or remote storage (connected to processor 388 via a network such as the internet). Thus, as used herein and in the claims, content is stored in memory, where the content is stored in local memory or remote memory, or distributed across both local and remote memory, unless explicitly stated otherwise (e.g., "remote memory" or "local memory").

The sensor 384 may be any device suitable for providing an indication of the fluid pressure within the expansion chamber to the controller 368. For example, sensor 384 may include a pressure sensor fluidly connected to the expansion chamber. The controller 368 may continuously or intermittently receive signals from the sensor 384 indicative of the fluid pressure within the expansion chamber in order to direct the operation of the feedback device 376 to inform the user of the current fluid pressure and/or progress toward the target pressure (e.g., to alert the user that the target fluid pressure has been reached).

Feedback device 376 may be any device that can provide an audible, visual, or tactile indication to the user as to the progress in the toe compression process (e.g., current pressure, progress to target pressure, or time remaining in a prescribed hold time). For example, the feedback device 376 may include a speaker 376₁Electronic display 376₂(e.g., LCD, LED, or OLED display) and/or vibrator 376₃(e.g., a bias motor, a linear resonant actuator, and/or a piezoelectric vibrator). The feedback device 376 may be communicatively connected to the controller 368 via a wired or wireless means.

Loudspeaker 376₁Progress may be indicated in spoken language, such as "one hundred millimeters of mercury", "target pressure reached", "ten seconds remaining", or "hold time elapsed". Alternatively or additionally, the speaker may indicate progress with a non-verbal sound, such as a sound frequency (e.g., based on directional goals)A pressure or time-specified course of time with the tone increasing or decreasing), a sound pattern (e.g., a pattern of tones or beeps that vary based on pressure or time), and/or a volume (e.g., a volume that increases or decreases as a function of pressure or time). When the target pressure is reached or a specified hold time has elapsed, the speaker 376₁Special alerts (verbal or non-verbal) may be included.

Referring to FIG. 39, display 376₂Progress may be indicated in any visual form, such as with a numerical designation 396 (e.g., 1 minute or 100mmHg) and/or a graphical designation 404 (graphical, color-coded or other non-numerical visual designation). The

designations

396, 404 may indicate progress in absolute terms (e.g., current pressure or current time elapsed or remaining) or relative terms (e.g., percentage, patterned color coding, etc.).

Returning to FIG. 38, vibrator 376₃Progress may be indicated in any manner, in absolute or relative terms, such as by vibration intensity, frequency of vibration pulses, or vibration pattern (e.g., morse code or the like).

User input 380 may be any device that can receive input from a user, such as button 380₁ Touch screen 380₂Or dial 380₃. The user may interact with (e.g., manipulate) the user input 380, transmit commands to the controller 368, such as to start or stop a compression procedure, set a target inflation pressure, and/or set a specified hold time.

Referring to fig. 27 and 38, the electronic control system 367 may be located entirely within the fluid source 170, or the electronic control system 367 may include two or more subsystems 408 distributed between the fluid source 170, the body 110, and/or an external device (e.g., a tablet or smartphone), collectively forming the electronic control system 367. The subsystems 408 may be communicatively connected to each other by wire or wirelessly to exchange signals. Still referring to fig. 27 and 38, fig. 27 shows an example in which the electronic control system 367 includes the subsystem 408 in the fluid source 170₁And a subsystem 408 in the body 110₂. For example, subsystem 408₁ Processor 388 and/or place that may include controller 368A processor 392, and a pump 372, and optionally, one or more (or all) sensors 384, a user input 380, and a feedback device 376. Subsystem 408₂Another processor 388 and memory 392, which may include a controller 368, and one or more (or all) sensors 384, user inputs 380, and feedback devices 376. FIG. 28 shows an example in which electronic display 376₂Mounted to the body 110 for displaying the progress of the finger toe depression process to the wearer. This provides the wearer with immediate information about the progress of the finger and toe compression procedure. For example, the wearer may receive an indication of the progress of a prescribed hold time while they are walking around a jewelry store at will (e.g., may be notified when the hold time has elapsed).

Fig. 36 shows an alternative embodiment in which all of the electronic control system 367 is located in the fluid source 170. An advantage of this design is that it may reduce the size of the body 110 as compared to designs that include other components on the body 110. This may make the body 110 more comfortable on the wearer.

Fig. 40 illustrates another embodiment, wherein a portion of the electronic control system 367 is located in an external device 412 (e.g., an external mobile device such as a smartphone or tablet computer). For example, external device 412 may include subsystem 408₂The subsystem 408₂Another processor 388 and memory 392 having a controller 368, and one or more (or all) of the user inputs 380, and a feedback device 376 (see fig. 38). In the illustrated example, subsystem 408 on external device 412₂Including an electronic display 376 for displaying progress in the toe press process₂。

Returning to fig. 38, in some embodiments, controller 368 may store a pocket cycle counter in memory 392 and increment the counter when the toe compression routine is performed. This may allow the operator to track the number of uses of the sachet in the event that the sachet can be reused a set number of times before it has to be sterilised or replaced. The controller 368 may direct the feedback device 376 to provide an indication of the number of uses or remaining uses (e.g., to replace when the bladder cycle counter equals or exceeds a predetermined maximum number of cycles, the controller 368 may direct the feedback device 376 to provide visual, audible, and/or tactile indicia that the bladder should be replaced).

As used herein, the phrase "and/or" is intended to mean an inclusive or. That is, for example, "X and/or Y" means X or Y or both. As another example, "X, Y, and/or Z" is intended to mean X or Y or Z or any combination thereof.

While the above description describes features of example embodiments, it will be appreciated that some of the features and/or functionality of the described embodiments are susceptible to modification without departing from the spirit and principles of operation of the described embodiments. For example, various features described with the aid of the represented embodiments or examples may be selectively combined with one another. Accordingly, what has been described above is intended to be illustrative of the claimed concepts and is not limiting. It will be understood by those skilled in the art that other variations and modifications may be made without departing from the scope of the invention as defined in the following claims. 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.

Item

Item 1: a compression device for removing a ring caught on a toe portion, said compression device comprising

A rigid outer body extending from a body proximal end to a body distal end, the rigid outer body comprising:

a toe cavity extending from the cavity opening at the proximal end of the body to the distal end of the body;

a fluid inlet, and

a fluid flow path fluidly connecting the fluid inlet to one or more expansion chambers located in the toe cavity,

wherein said body proximal end includes an upper portion, a lower portion and two laterally spaced apart side portions, each side portion connecting said upper portion to said lower portion, at least one of said side portions being recessed distally as compared to said upper and lower portions to accommodate inter-toe plications; and

at least one flexible bladder lines the toe cavity, each flexible bladder defining at least one wall of an inflation chamber.

Item 2: a compression device of any preceding item, wherein each side portion is recessed distally as compared to the upper and lower portions.

Item 3: the compression device of any preceding item further comprises a fluid pressure gauge rigidly connected to the body and fluidly connected to the fluid flow path.

Item 4: the compression apparatus of any preceding item, wherein the pressure gauge comprises: a pressure indicator movable in response to fluid pressure within the fluid flow path; and a visual marker identifying a corresponding location of the pressure indicator corresponding to a target pressure.

Item 5: the compression apparatus of any preceding item, wherein the pressure gauge is housed in the rigid outer body.

Item 6: the compression apparatus of any preceding item, wherein the visual indicia is disposed on the rigid outer body.

Item 7: a compression apparatus of any preceding item, wherein the rigid outer body defines at least one wall of each of the expansion chambers.

Item 8: a compression device of any preceding item, wherein the digit cavity has a closed distal end.

Item 9: the compression device of any preceding item, wherein the fluid inlet is at the distal end of the body.

Item 10: the compression device of any preceding item, wherein the fluid inlet comprises a normally closed valve that is openable by connection to a source of fluid.

Item 11: a compression device of any preceding item, wherein the toe cavity has a substantially cylindrical cross-sectional shape.

Item 12: a compression device of any preceding item, wherein the upper and lower portions extend proximally of the two side portions.

Item 13: the compression apparatus of any preceding item, wherein the at least one expansion chamber comprises a first expansion chamber and a second expansion chamber, and the compression apparatus further comprises a flow control valve in a fluid flow path between the first expansion chamber and the second expansion chamber.

Item 14: the compression apparatus of any preceding item, wherein the flow control valve is a throttle valve.

Item 15: the compression apparatus of any preceding item, wherein the rigid outer body is at least one of translucent or transparent.

Item 16: the compression apparatus of any preceding item, wherein at least one of the expansion chambers is at least one of translucent or transparent.

Item 17: the compression apparatus of any preceding item, further comprising a pressure relief valve in fluid communication with the fluid flow path and openable to the atmosphere in response to a predetermined excess fluid pressure within the fluid flow path.

Item 18: a compression apparatus of any preceding item, wherein the flexible bladder comprises a tubular sheet extending from a sheet proximal end portion to a sheet distal end portion, each of the sheet proximal end portion and the sheet distal end portion being in fluid-tight seal with the rigid outer body.

Item 19: the compression device of any preceding item, wherein the at least one flexible bladder is removably coupled to the rigid outer body.

Item 20: a compression apparatus of any preceding item, wherein the rigid outer body has an outer surface, and the outer surface has at least one lateral recess extending distally from one of the sides of the body proximal end.

Item 21: a compression apparatus of any preceding item, wherein the rigid outer body has an outer surface, and the outer surface has lateral recesses extending distally from each side of the body proximal end.

Item 22: a compression apparatus of any preceding item, wherein one of the sides of the body proximal end extends proximally of the other side of the body proximal end.

Item 23: a compression device for removing a ring that is caught on a digit of 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 toe cavity extending from a cavity opening proximal end at the body proximal end to a cavity distal end opening at the body distal end; and

a fluid inlet, and

a moveable flexible tubular bladder extending from the liner proximal end to the liner distal end, the bladder comprising a bladder intermediate portion connecting the bladder proximal portion to the bladder distal portion, the bladder intermediate portion being located within the toe cavity,

wherein each of the bladder proximal portion and the bladder distal portion are removably sealable with the rigid outer body to define an annular inflation chamber within the toe cavity between the bladder and the rigid outer body, the fluid inlet being fluidly connected to the annular inflation chamber.

Item 24: a compression device of any of the preceding items, wherein:

the pouch proximal portion covers the body proximal end and the pouch distal portion covers the body distal end.

Item 25: the compression device of any preceding item, further comprising:

at least one bladder engagement member releasably engageable with the rigid outer body,

each pouch engagement member, when engaged, presses at least one of the pouch proximal end portion and the pouch distal end portion against the rigid outer body to provide a fluid tight seal between the pouch and the rigid outer housing.

Item 26: the compression device of any preceding item, further comprising:

a proximal capsular engagement member and a distal capsular engagement member, each of the proximal and distal capsular engagement members engageable with the rigid outer body,

each pouch engagement member, when engaged, presses a respective one of the pouch proximal end portion and the pouch distal end portion against the rigid outer body to provide a fluid tight seal between the pouch and the rigid outer housing.

Item 27: a compression device of any of the preceding items, wherein:

when engaged, each bladder engagement member overlies a portion of the rigid outer body and bladder.

Item 28: a compression device of any of the preceding items, wherein:

each pocket engagement member includes a removable end cap.

Item 29: a compression device of any of the preceding items, wherein:

one of the rigid outer body and the pocket includes a proximal gasket and a distal gasket, an

Each bladder engagement member, when engaged, compresses at least one of the proximal and distal gaskets to provide a fluid-tight seal.

Item 30: a compression device of any of the preceding items, wherein:

the rigid outer body includes a proximal gasket located below the proximal portion of the capsular bag and a distal gasket located below the distal portion of the capsular bag, an

Item 31: a compression device of any of the preceding items, wherein:

each pocket engagement member includes a gasket that presses against the pocket when the pocket engagement member is engaged.

Item 32: a compression device of any of the preceding items, wherein:

each of the pouch proximal portion and the pouch distal portion is folded over the outer surface of the rigid shell.

Item 33: the compression device of any preceding item, further comprising:

a valve upstream of the annular expansion chamber, the valve being openable to allow pressurised fluid to enter the annular expansion chamber and sealable to seal the pressurised fluid within the annular expansion chamber.

Item 34: a compression device of any of the preceding items, wherein:

the valve is part of a fluid conduit connector that provides connectivity to an upstream pressurized fluid supply conduit and is sealable when the fluid conduit connector is disconnected from the upstream pressurized fluid supply conduit.

Item 35: a compression device of any of the preceding items, wherein:

the valve automatically seals when the fluid conduit connector is disconnected from the upstream pressurized fluid supply conduit.

Item 36: the compression device of any preceding item, further comprising:

a user feedback device connected to the rigid housing, the user feedback device providing at least one of a visual, an audible, and a tactile in-progress indicia during the digit press.

Item 37: the compression device of any preceding item, further comprising:

a user feedback device coupled to the rigid housing, the user feedback device providing at least one of visual, audible, and tactile indicia of fluid pressure within the expansion chamber.

Item 38: the compression device of any preceding item, further comprising:

a controller having one or more processors and memory for storing computer-readable instructions that, when executed by the one or more processors, configure the one or more processors to collectively:

a source of fluid is directed to supply fluid to the expansion chamber through a fluid inlet,

the method further includes receiving a signal indicative of a fluid pressure in the expansion chamber while directing the fluid source to supply fluid, and in response to determining that the fluid pressure in the expansion chamber has reached a predetermined target pressure, directing the fluid source to slow or stop supplying fluid into the expansion chamber.

Item 39: the compression apparatus of any preceding item, wherein the computer readable instructions, when executed by the one or more processors, configure the one or more processors to collectively:

increment the pocket cycle counter memory.

Item 40: the compression apparatus of any preceding item, wherein the computer readable instructions, when executed by the one or more processors, configure the one or more processors to collectively:

in response to determining that the capsular bag cycle counter equals or exceeds the predetermined maximum cycle number, instructing the user feedback device to provide at least one of a visual, audible, and tactile indicia that the capsular bag should be replaced.

Item 41: a compression device for removing a ring that is caught on a digit of a finger, the compression device comprising:

a rigid outer body extending from a body proximal portion having a body proximal end to a body distal portion having a body distal end, the rigid outer body comprising:

a toe cavity extending from a cavity proximal opening at the proximal end of the body to a cavity distal opening at the distal end of the body, an

A fluid inlet; and

one or more bladder engagement members collectively having a disengaged position allowing insertion and removal of the flexible tubular bladder through the toe cavity and an engaged position to seal the flexible tubular bladder extending through the toe cavity to the proximal and distal portions of the body.

Item 42: the compression device of item 41, further comprising the features of any one or more of items 1-41.

Claims

1. A compression device for removing a ring caught on a digit of a finger, said compression device comprising:

a fluid inlet, and

at least one flexible bladder lining the toe chamber, each flexible bladder defining at least one wall of an expansion chamber.

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

3. A compression device as recited in 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. A compression device as recited in claim 3, wherein the pressure gauge includes: a pressure indicator movable in response to fluid pressure within the fluid flow path; and a visual marker identifying a corresponding location of the pressure indicator corresponding to a target pressure.

5. A compression device according to claim 4, wherein the pressure gauge is housed in the rigid outer body.

6. A compression device as recited in claim 4, wherein the visual indicia is provided on the rigid outer body.

7. A compression device according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the rigid outer body defines at least one wall of each expansion chamber.

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

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

10. A compression device according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the fluid inlet comprises a normally closed valve which is openable by connection to a source of fluid.

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

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

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

14. A compression apparatus according to claim 13, wherein the flow control valve is a throttle valve.

15. A compression device as recited in any one of claims 1-14, wherein the rigid outer body is at least one of translucent or transparent.

16. A compression device as recited in claim 15, wherein at least one of the expansion chambers is at least one of translucent or transparent.

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

18. A compression device according to any one of claims 1-17, wherein the flexible bladder comprises a tubular sheet extending from a sheet proximal end portion to a sheet distal end portion, each of the sheet proximal end portion and sheet distal end portion being in fluid seal with the rigid outer body.

19. A compression device according to any one of claims 1-18, wherein the at least one flexible bladder is removably coupled to the rigid outer body.

20. A compression device according to any one of claims 1-19, wherein the rigid outer body has an outer surface, and the outer surface has at least one lateral recess extending distally from one of the sides of the body proximal end.

21. A compression device according to any one of claims 1-19, wherein the rigid outer body has an outer surface, and the outer surface has lateral recesses extending distally from each side of the body proximal end.

22. A compression device according to any one of claims 1 to 21, wherein one of the sides of the proximal end of the body extends proximally of the other side of the proximal end of the body.

23. A compression device for removing a ring caught on a digit of a finger, said compression device comprising:

a rigid outer body extending from a body proximal end to a body distal end, the rigid outer body comprising: a toe cavity extending from a cavity proximal opening at the body proximal end to a cavity distal opening at the body distal end; and

a fluid inlet, and

each of the bladder proximal portion and the bladder distal portion are removably sealable with the rigid outer body to define an annular inflation chamber within the toe cavity between the bladder and the rigid outer body, the fluid inlet being fluidly connected to the annular inflation chamber.

24. A compression device according to claim 23, wherein the bladder proximal portion overlies the body proximal end and the bladder distal portion overlies the body distal end.

25. A compression device according to any one of claims 23 to 24, further comprising:

26. A compression device according to any one of claims 23-24, further comprising:

27. A compression device according to any one of claims 25-26, wherein:

28. A compression device according to any one of claims 25 to 27, wherein:

each pocket engagement member includes a removable end cap.

29. A compression device according to any one of claims 25 to 28, wherein:

30. A compression device according to any one of claims 25 to 28, wherein:

31. A compression device according to any one of claims 25-28, wherein:

32. A compression device according to any one of claims 23-31, wherein:

33. A compression device according to any one of claims 23-32, further comprising:

34. A compression device as recited in claim 33, wherein:

35. A compression device as recited in claim 34, wherein:

36. A compression device according to any one of claims 23-35, further comprising:

a user feedback device connected to the rigid housing, the user feedback device providing at least one of a visual, audible, and tactile indicia of progress during the digit press.

37. A compression device according to any one of claims 23-36, further comprising:

a user feedback device connected to the rigid housing, the user feedback device providing at least one of a visual, audible, and tactile indication of fluid pressure within the expansion chamber.

38. A compression device according to any one of claims 23-37, further comprising:

while directing the fluid source to supply fluid, receiving a signal indicative of a pressure of the fluid in the expansion chamber, an

The pilot fluid source slows or stops supplying fluid into the expansion chamber in response to determining that the fluid pressure in the expansion chamber has reached a predetermined target pressure.

39. A compression apparatus according to claim 38, wherein the computer readable instructions, when executed by the one or more processors, configure the one or more processors to collectively:

increment the pocket cycle counter memory.

40. A compression device according to claim 39, wherein the computer readable instructions, when executed by the one or more processors, configure the one or more processors to collectively:

41. A compression device for removing a ring caught on a digit of a finger, said compression device comprising:

A fluid inlet; and