JP5902744B2 - Drainable ostomy pouch - Google Patents

Description

(Field of Invention)
The present invention relates to the field of ostomy pouches, and specifically to an ostomy pouch capable of draining.

  Several patents and published applications teach drainable ostomy pouches whose walls define a narrow drainage chute for draining the pouch contents. The pouch includes an integrated closure system for sealing the pouch that is closed by folding or folding the drainage chute towards the main body of the pouch. A closed system, when in its closed configuration, is one that is partially folded around, below, or above the wound drainage chute as a primary or secondary arrangement to retain the drainage chute in the closed configuration. Including the above flaps. Examples of the patent of interest and published applications in this area include Patent Document 1 and Patent Document 2, Patent Document 3, Patent Document 4, Patent Document 5, and Patent Document 6.

  For some wearers, it may be desirable to hide the drain chute more completely and isolated when in its closed configuration. The present invention has been devised in view of these problems.

US Patent Application Publication No. 2005/0131360 US Pat. No. 3,825,005 US Pat. No. 4,519,797 US Pat. No. 7,306,581 US Pat. No. 6,589,221 US Pat. No. 6,780,172

  The present invention provides a drainable pouch with first and second flaps that are on opposite sides of the pouch and extend into the area of the drainage chute portion.

  In one form, the flaps each extend (i) when the drainage chute portion is in its open state, the drainage chute portions extend beyond the distal end of each flap and away from the collection portion; (ii) When the drainage chute portion is in its closed state, at least one of the flaps is dimensioned to extend beyond the drainage chute portion and away from the collection portion. The pouch may further comprise at least one fastener for releasably fastening the flap to a closed state.

  Additionally or alternatively, each flap has a perimeter that includes a convex curved portion. The pouch may further comprise at least one fastener for releasably fastening the flaps to each other when the drainage chute portion is in its closed configuration. The convex curved portion of the flap may provide a convex curved peripheral shape to the pouch within the drain chute region.

  In another aspect, the present invention is a flap disposed on a first surface of a pouch comprising a proximal end, a side edge, and a distal end, wherein (i) the drainage chute portion is closed When in the configuration, at least a portion of the flap is foldable under the drain chute portion so as to oppose the second surface of the pouch opposite the first surface, and (ii) the flap is the drain chute portion. When folded down, the side edges of the flaps provide a pouch that includes a flap that is dimensioned to have a shape that matches the side edges of the pouch in the opposing area.

  In another aspect, the present invention is a distributed, peelable mechanical engagement fastener component mounted on a wall welded in a peripheral seam of a pouch, the edge of which is opposed to the pouch. A fastener that forms a part of the peripheral portion or extends to it, has the same extent as the first and second edges of the wall, and extends as a continuous piece between the first and second edges Providing a pouch including parts. Such a configuration can facilitate production by drilling or cutting from continuous roll stock. For example, the fastener component may be pre-mounted as a continuous strip on roll stock to form a welded wall in the pouch seam. This avoids the need to attach discrete fastener parts to the pouch wall as a separate operation after the pouch profile is initially formed.

  In another alternative, the present invention is a drainage chute having a collection portion and a drainage opening depending from the collection portion to allow depletion of contents from the pouch, wherein the drainage chute is A drainable ostomy pouch is provided comprising a drainage chute that is foldable between an open state extended from a collection part and a closed state in which the drainage chute is folded towards the collection part. The pouch further includes at least one flap having an outer shape that matches the peripheral shape of the pouch. In one form, when the drainage chute portion is closed, the two flaps provide a curved convex peripheral profile of the pouch. In another alternative, the single flap has flared side edges that are shaped to align with the tapered pouch periphery when the flap is folded under a closed drain chute portion.

  Features and advantages achieved by the present invention include one or more of the following. (I) Ability to conceal the drainage chute portion of the drainable pouch more isolated and / or (ii) Ability to provide the lower region of the drainable pouch with a shape that matches the convex lip shape of the non-drainable pouch.

  Additional aspects, features, and advantages of the present invention will become apparent from the following description of preferred embodiments. Protection may be sought for any new feature or idea disclosed herein and / or illustrated in the drawings, whether or not there is a focus thereon.

FIG. 1 is a schematic front view of a first embodiment of an ostomy pouch in its open configuration. 2 is a schematic side cross-sectional view of the pouch of FIG. FIG. 2a is a schematic side cross-sectional view showing the folding of the drain chute portion of the pouch of FIG. FIG. 3 is a schematic side sectional view of a portion of the first embodiment, wherein the drain chute portion is folded into a closed configuration. FIG. 4 is a schematic front perspective view similar to FIG. 1 showing the pouch in its open configuration. FIG. 5 is a schematic rear view of the pouch in a closed configuration. FIG. 6 is a schematic front view of a second embodiment of an ostomy pouch in its open configuration. FIG. 7 is a schematic side cross-sectional view of the pouch of FIG. FIG. 8 is a schematic front view of a second embodiment of a pouch with a draining chute in its closed configuration. FIG. 9 is a schematic front view similar to FIG. 8 showing the flap in its closed position. FIG. 10 is a schematic partial cross-sectional view showing the modified drainage chute in the open position. FIG. 11 is a schematic partial cross-sectional view similar to FIG. 10 but showing the drainage chute portion where the initial fold goes to the closed position and the winding starts from below the reinforcement member. FIG. 11b is a schematic partial cross-sectional view similar to FIG. 10, but with the initial fold toward the closed position and the winding starting from the top of the reinforcement member, showing the drain chute portion. FIG. 11 c is a schematic cross-sectional view showing the winding of FIG. 11 b after being wound from above the reinforcing member. FIG. 11 a is a schematic side cross-sectional view showing folding of the drain chute portion of the pouch of FIG. 11.

  Preferred embodiments of the present invention will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. The drawing illustrates an ostomy pouch in a generally upright orientation with which the pouch is normally mounted. The same reference numerals illustrate the equivalent features in each embodiment.

  FIGS. 1-5 show a first implementation of an ostomy pouch 10 comprising a front wall 12 and a rear wall 14 of flexible impermeable plastic film that are welded around a common peripheral seam 16. The form is illustrated. Many suitable materials for the walls 12, 14 are well known in the art. For example, the material may be a laminate of one or more layers of ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA) and a barrier layer of, for example, polyvinylidene chloride (PVDC).

  The rear wall 14 of the pouch 10 has an inlet opening 18 in its upper region for receiving human waste from the wearer's stoma. In the illustrated embodiment, the pouch 10 is intended as an ileostomy pouch for receiving semi-solid ileal fluid from the wearer's ileal stoma. The pouch 10 can be secured to a stoma-peripheral region of the wearer's body by a body fitment generally indicated as 20. Body fitment 20 typically includes a pad or wafer of hypoallergenic skin adhesive (not shown). The pouch 10 may be of the so-called “one-piece” type, and the body fitment 20 is permanently secured to the rear wall 14 of the pouch 10 at or around the entrance opening 18. Alternatively, the pouch 10 may be of a so-called “two-piece” type, where the pouch 10 and the body fitment 20 are separate items and can be removably attached to each other by an ostomy connector. Exemplary connectors include adhesive ostomy connectors or mechanical ostomy connectors.

  As is conventional, the pouch 10 may include one or more internal compartments (not shown) for containing human waste collected in the pouch 10. Additionally or alternatively, the pouch 10 may include a well-known deodorizing filter (not shown) for venting and deodorizing the release from the inside of the pouch 10. The deodorizing filter can be mounted, for example, in communication with a vent opening in one of the front and rear walls 12,14.

  The pouch 10 includes an outlet 22 as a form of the drain chute portion 24 of the pouch 10. The drain chute portion 24 is narrower than the upper portion of the pouch 10. As can be seen from the drawing, the drainage chute portion 24 may generally be disposed symmetrically with respect to the inlet opening 18. However, alternatively (not shown), the drain chute portion 24 may generally be asymmetric with respect to the inlet opening 18.

  The drain chute portion 24 is defined by extensions of the front and rear walls 12, 14 that are welded together on both sides of the drain chute portion 24. A discharge opening 26 is defined between the non-stick distal edges of the front and rear walls 12,14. In the illustrated embodiment, the front and rear walls 12, 14 have substantially the same extent. However, in an alternative embodiment (not shown), one of the front and rear walls 12, 14 is the other such that the discharge opening 26 is defined near or between the stepped walls. You may protrude beyond the periphery. Alternatively (not shown), the discharge opening 26 may instead be provided as a slit in one of the walls 12,14.

  Here, the description of the closure system integrated with the pouch 10 for sealing the drain chute portion 24 in a closed state continues. While this closure system is highly preferred, other types of integrated or non-integrated closure systems may be used as desired. An integrated closure system is preferred because it can provide a compact size (as described below) that is beneficial to isolate and hide behind one or more flaps used in the present invention. The closure system comprises one or both of the following:

  (A) At least one resiliently flexible reinforcing member 32 attached to at least one of the front and rear walls 12, 14 in the drain chute portion 24. In the illustrated form, the reinforcing member 32 is installed at or near the discharge opening 26. In the alternative described below with respect to FIGS. 10 and 11, the reinforcing member 32 is spaced from the discharge opening 26. The (each) reinforcement member 32 may be attached to the walls 12, 14 along its length. In the illustrated form, the reinforcing member 32 is attached to the outer surface of the walls 12, 14, but the reinforcing member 32 may instead be attached to the inner surface or embedded within the walls 12, 14. . The purposes and advantages of the reinforcing member 32 may include one or more of the following. (I) The drainage chute portion 24 defines a folding interval for the unit to be folded into its closed configuration (as described below). (Ii) The degree of expansion of the discharge opening 26 can be controlled. For example, the reinforcement member 32 may necessarily bias the discharge opening 26 toward at least partially closed or constricted state. The reinforcing member 32 may have a substantially planar shape that urges the discharge opening 26 in a closed state, or has a natural shape that is bent or curved, and the discharge opening 26 is slightly changed according to the degree of curvature. Can be energized. The reinforcing member 32 may be manually operated at its opposite edge by squeezing the reinforcing member 32 and bending the reinforcing member 32 or by pressing and flattening the surface of the reinforcing member 32. Typically, the reinforcing member 32 is made of a resiliently flexible plastic material that is incompressible. However, a compressible material such as a compressible foam can be used if desired. And / or (iii) providing a seal when the outlet 22 is rolled or folded. Preferably, the reinforcing member 32 extends entirely across the width of the internal passage in the drain chute portion 24 and at least partially overlaps the peripheral weld seam 16. When multiple reinforcing members 32 are used, at least one reinforcing member 32 extends generally across the width of the internal passage, or the combined footprint of the reinforcing members 32 extends across the width of the internal passage.

  In the illustrated embodiment, two reinforcing members 32 are provided and attached to each wall 12, 14 one at a time. The reinforcing members 32 are preferably at least partially overlapping one another, but the reinforcing members 32 may be mutually or partially, if desired, in the axial and / or transverse direction of the drainage chute portion 24. It may be shifted. The reinforcing members 32 are separated from each other by the film material of one or both of the walls 12, 14 such that the reinforcing members 32 do not contact each other directly. However, if desired, the reinforcing members 32 may contact each other at one or more points, either permanently or when the drainage chute portion 24 is placed in its closed configuration.

  (B) A fastener for fastening the drainage chute portion 24 in a wound closed configuration, as illustrated in FIG. The fastener generally comprises first and second fastener parts 36, 38 on the front and rear walls 12, 14, respectively. Each fastener part 36, 38 may be an element attached to the wall 12, 14, or may consist of the surface of the respective wall 12, 14 itself. In a preferred form, the fastener is a peelable and distributed mechanical engagement fastener, such as a male-male interlock, such as a velcro, mushroom head or interlock hook. Alternatively, the fastener may be a peelable and releasable adhesive, and at least one adhesive for adhesively engaging a fully adhesive or non-adhesive flat surface, such as a wall of drain chute portion 24 Including the surface. The fastener can be a single piece. The fastener parts 36, 38 may be identical to one another (in terms of material and / or configuration) or the fastener parts 36, 38 may be different.

  In the illustrated embodiment, the reinforcement member 32 and the fastener parts 36, 38 are separate items. However, at least one of the fastener components 36, 38 may be integrated with the respective reinforcing member 32 as desired.

  1 and 2 show the drainage chute portion 24 in its open configuration to allow the discharge of stoma waste from the pouch 10, which extends from the collection portion of the pouch 10 in a first direction. To do. To close the drainage chute portion 24, the drainage chute portion 24 is folded (indicated by the arrow 39 in FIG. 2a) one or more times (defined by the unit size of the reinforcing member 32) around the assumed fold line 40. ). In this embodiment, the drain chute portion 24 is folded upwards four times with respect to its closed configuration, but more or fewer folds may be implemented as desired (e.g., a second described below). In the second embodiment, 3 times). The folding results in a closed configuration of the drain chute portion 24, and in this embodiment a coil 43 is formed. The fastener parts 36, 38 are installed such that the fastener parts 36, 38 are aligned with each other by folding the drain chute portion 24 to its closed position. Fastener parts 36, 38 are manually engaged by finger squeezing the two fastener parts 36, 38, thereby securing drain chute portion 24 in its closed position.

  As described above, other types of integrated or non-integrated closure systems may be implemented as desired. For example, the reinforcing member 32, or fasteners, or fastener parts 36, 38 may be omitted, or an entirely different closure system may be used.

  A feature of this embodiment is the provision of one or more flaps for substantially discrete concealment of the wound drain chute coil 43. The present embodiment includes a front flap 41 and a rear flap 42. The flaps 41, 42 may define a pocket that is at least partially closable. Each flap 41, 42 is provided on or adjacent to the front or rear wall 12, 14, respectively, and hangs in the same direction as the drain chute portion 24 when extended. Each flap 41, 42 includes a proximal portion or end 41a, 42a and a distal portion or end 41b, 42b, respectively. As can be seen from FIGS. 1 and 2, each flap 41, 42 is dimensioned such that the hanging length of the flaps 41, 42 is shorter than the length of the drain chute portion 24 when the drain chute portion 24 is in its extended state. Is set. Or, in other words, the drain chute portion 24 extends beyond the distal end 41b, 42b of each flap 41, 42 in a (first) direction from the collection portion of the pouch 10. The discharge opening 26 is installed away from the flaps 41 and 42. This geometry ensures that there is little risk of waste liquid coming into contact and fouling the flaps 41, 42 while emptying the pouch 10 through the discharge opening 26.

  Also, as can be seen from FIGS. 3-5, the flaps 41, 42 have a hanging length of at least one of the flaps 41, 42 when the drain chute portion 24 is in its closed coil configuration. The dimension is set to be longer than the dimension. In other words, the distal ends 41b, 42b of the at least one flap 41, 42 extend beyond the periphery of the coil 43 and away from the collection portion of the pouch 10 (and, for example, in all directions) ) Protruding. In the illustrated form, both flaps 41, 42 have this feature. Also, optionally, the flaps 41, 42 are substantially the same size and shape and mirror each other. The flaps 41 and 42 are substantially coextensive with each other.

  A flap fastener 44 is provided for releasably fastening the flaps 41, 42 together. The flap fastener 44 can be any of the types of fasteners described above. Optionally, the same type of flap fastener 44 may be selected for the fastener. The flap fastener 44 includes complementary surfaces or parts 46, 48. In the illustrated form, the flap fastener components 46, 48 are installed so as not to substantially overlap the drain chute coil 43. This geometry prevents the flap fastener 44 from increasing the volume and stiffness of the pouch 10 in the drain chute coil 43. It will be appreciated that the coil 43 itself includes the reinforcing member 32 and / or that the fastener may be less flexible than the rest of the pouch 10 in advance. Avoiding additional stiffness improves comfort for the wearer. Also, when the flap fastener 44 fastens the flaps 41 and 42 together, the flap fastener 44 prevents accidental movement of the drain chute portion 24 to its extended position. When the drain chute portion 24 is folded to its closed state, the flap fastener 44 is fastened by pressing the flaps 41 and 42 together as indicated by the arrow 49.

  In the illustrated form, each of the flaps 41, 42 has a generally convex curved outer contour that smoothly and continuously continues the overall outer shape of the pouch 10 without abruptly changing the shape or curvature. This geometry gives a substantially complete impression that the pouch 10 is a closed pouch and can effectively and isolatedly hide the drain chute coil 43. This is aided by the use of a preferred embodiment integrated closure system having a substantially low profile without the additional volume of an external closure clamp.

  A further geometric feature is that the flaps 41, 42 adhere to each other under the lower end of the pouch 10 without substantial folding of either of the flaps 41, 42. This maintains the curved profile of the pouch 10 at its lower end compared to prior art flaps that fold under the lower end of the pouch 10. The folding of the flaps 41, 42 will generally fold along a straight line, resulting in a straight edge profile on the back side of the pouch 10. Instead, this embodiment achieves the technically difficult feature of a drainable pouch having a convex lip profile at its lower end, which can more closely approximate a permanently closed pouch.

  One or both outer surfaces of the front and rear walls 12, 14 may be at least partially covered by the comfort layer 30. The comfort layer 30 is an additional panel outside the front wall 12 and / or the rear wall 14 and can be secured to the pouch 10, for example, at the peripheral seam 16. Alternatively, the comfort layer 30 may be a surface layer carried by or forming part of the respective wall 12,14. The comfort layer 30 is typically made of a soft cushioning material. Typical materials include woven fabrics, non-woven fabrics, or plastic films with openings. The comfort layer 30 can be elastically stretchable or substantially non-stretchable. The comfort layer 30 is typically made of a soft cushioning material. Each of the flaps 41, 42 may consist of or comprise a comfort layer 30. In a preferred form, the comfort layer 30 on the flaps 41, 42 is an extension of the comfort layer 30 on the respective pouch walls 12, 14. Such an arrangement enhances the visual effect of the closed pouch, particularly with a surface or surface area that is substantially smooth and uninterrupted near the lower end of the pouch 10.

  Each flap 41, 42 may further comprise a backing layer 50, 52, respectively. The backing layers 50, 52 can be made of the same film material as the pouch walls 12, 14, for example. Alternatively, the backing layer 50, 52 can be an extension of the comfort layer 30 that is folded onto itself such that each flap 41, 42 is comprised of multiple layers or laminates of comfort layer material. The backing layers 50, 52 extend to the pouch walls 12, 14, and can be attached at points 54, 56, respectively.

  In the illustrated embodiment, the flaps 41, 42 and the flap fasteners 44 provide a secondary retainer for retaining the drain chute portion 24 in its closed coiled configuration. Alternatively, the closure fasteners may be omitted and the flaps 41, 42 and flap fasteners 44 may provide a primary retainer for retaining the drain chute portion 24 in its closed configuration.

  In the first embodiment, none of the flaps 41, 42 is folded under the folded drain chute coil 43. However, as shown in the second embodiment, such a flap fold may be used. 6-9, the second embodiment of the ostomy pouch 10 is similar to the first embodiment with respect to the pouch structure, drainage chute portion 24, and closure system for the drainage chute portion 24. The main difference is to provide a profiled flap 60 on one side of the pouch 10 instead of the pair of flaps 41, 42 of the embodiment described above.

  The cross-section shaped flap 60 has side edges 62 that are flared outwardly toward the distal region or end 64 of the cross-section shaped flap 60. The cross-sectionally shaped flap 60 is dimensioned such that when the drain chute portion 24 is in its extended state (FIGS. 6 and 7), the droop length of the cross-section shaped flap 60 is shorter than the length of the drain chute portion 24. . Or, in other words, the drain chute portion 24 extends beyond the distal end 64 of the cross-sectionally shaped flap 60. The discharge opening 26 is installed away from the cross-sectionally shaped flap 60. This geometry ensures that waste liquid is in contact and seldom contaminates the cross-section shaped flap 60 while emptying the pouch 10 through the discharge opening 26. Further, as can be seen from FIG. 8, the cross-sectionally shaped flap 60 has a drooping length of the cross-sectionally shaped flap 60 longer than the dimension of the coil 43 when the drain chute portion 24 is in its closed coiled configuration. Dimensioned to In other words, the distal end 64 protrudes beyond the periphery of the coil 43 and allows the cross-sectionally shaped flap 60 to be folded against the other surface of the pouch 10 under the coil 43 (FIG. 9). As shown in FIG. 9, when the cross-section shaped flap 60 is folded around the folded drain chute coil 43 (downward), the side edge 62 has the side edge 62 facing the cross-section shaped flap 60. The outer peripheral portion 66 is shaped to have substantially the same outer shape. The side edges 62 may be substantially aligned with or coextensive with the peripheral portion 66, or one of the pouch peripheral side edges 62 and portions 66 may be located slightly inward of the other. The degree of deviation may be less than 5 mm, preferably less than 4 mm, more preferably less than 3 mm, and most preferably less than 2 mm. Portion 66 may be tapered toward the drainage chute portion 24 as a trapezoidal shape (having straight or curved tapered sides). The side edges 62 may define a similar trapezoidal shape such that the cross-sectionally shaped flap 60 has triangular wings on its sides as compared to the drain chute portion 24.

  A flap fastener 68 is provided for retaining the flap 60 when in its folded configuration. A flap fastener 68 includes a first fastener surface or component 70 at or near the distal end 64 of the cross-section shaped flap 60 and a second fastener on the opposite side of the pouch 10 relative to the cross-section shaped flap 60. Surface or part 72. The flap fastener 68 can be any of the fastener types described above. Optionally, the same type of flap fasteners 68 may be selected for the fasteners. The first flap fastener part 70 on the cross-section shaped flap 60 generally extends across the width of the distal end 64 of the cross-section shaped flap 60 and is substantially the size of the second flap fastener part 72. Dimensioned to match.

  The advantage that the cross-sectionally shaped flap 60 matches the outer shape of the pouch 10 when the cross-sectionally shaped flap 60 is folded under or around the drain chute coil 43 is that each fastener component 70, 72 is similarly continuous. To facilitate the production of the pouch 10 using a pre-attached material in the form of a continuous roll stock. For example, the second fastener part 72 pre-attached on the surface of the pouch 10 may be cut or stamped so that the pre-attached second fastener part 72 is cut into a shape that matches the pouch profile. When manufactured into a contour shape, it is cut or stamped from roll stock. The second fastener part 72 extends from one cut or stamped periphery of the pouch 10 as a substantially continuous piece to the opposite edge. This avoids the need to attach an isolated second fastener part 72 to the pouch surface as a separate operation, thereby simplifying the manufacturing process and reducing costs. Similarly, the cross-section shaped flap 60 is cut or stamped from roll stock material, for example, with the first fastener component 70 pre-attached as a continuous strip. The cross-section shaped flap 60 and the first fastener part 70 are integrally formed by a single cutting or stamping operation. The first fastener component 70 extends from one cut or stamped periphery of the cross-section shaped flap 60 as a substantially continuous piece to the opposing edge. These edges extend to the welded periphery of the collection portion of the pouch 10. This also avoids the need to attach an isolated fastener part to the cross-section shaped flap 60 and provides the same manufacturing improvements and efficiencies for the second fastener part 72 as described above.

  In use, matching the shape of the cross-sectionally shaped flap 60 and portion 66 at the periphery of the pouch allows the cross-shaped shaped flap 60 (and each first fastener component 70) to be second on the surface of the pouch 10. It is ensured that the fastener parts 72 are substantially covered. This substantially avoids exposing the fastener surface of the second fastener component 72 that could otherwise get caught in the wearer's clothes or underwear or irritate the skin.

  In the illustrated form, the fastener parts 70, 72 are part of the same fastener part or member 74. The second flap fastener part 72 engaged by the first fastener part 70 on the cross-section shaped flap 60 is the upper portion of the fastener member 74 and the first fastener part 70 is fastened. It is a lower part of the tool member 74. Fastener member 74 has a shape that substantially matches the shape of pouch peripheral portion 66 in the region of fastener member 74. Fastener member 74 may be coextensive with pouch peripheral portion 66 or may be slightly inward of pouch peripheral portion 66 to provide an area of pouch wall material as a comfortable cushion for the edges of fastener member 74. Can be provided.

  By using a fastener member 74 having the same extent, the fastener member 74 can be previously attached to the roll stock material as a continuous strip, as described above. The first flap fastener part 70 on the cross-section shaped flap 60 generally extends across the width of the second fastener part 72 in the upper portion of the fastener member 74, and the cross-section shaped flap 60 is the first Covers any exposed portion of the fastener member 74 that is not engaged by the fastener component 70 or fastener component 38.

  As in the first embodiment, the pouch 10 may carry a comfort layer 30 on the front wall 12 and / or the rear wall 14. The comfort layer 30 may extend to cover the surface of the cross-sectionally shaped flap 60. In one form, the cross-section shaped flap 60 consists essentially of one or more comfort layer materials. In another alternative (not shown), the flap 60 further comprises a backing film, similar to the first embodiment. Fastener components 70, 72 and / or fastener members 74 may be mounted on comfort layer 30. In a preferred form, the fastener component is pre-mounted as a continuous piece on each part of the comfort layer material in roll stock form. The shape of the fastener parts 70, 72 is defined when the comfort layer material is cut or stamped from roll stock and welded into the peripheral seam 16.

  In use, the drain chute portion 24 is folded into its closed coiled configuration and the cross-section shaped flap 60 is folded under the coil 43 and fastened by a fastener 68. The cross-section shaped flaps 60 are arranged in isolation by cross-section shaped flaps 60 that substantially cover and conceal the drain chute coil 43 and match the outline of the pouch periphery. The cross-sectionally shaped flap 60 can be much more isolated than, for example, a straight-edged rectangular flap having a shape different from the pouch periphery.

  In the illustrated form, the cross-sectionally shaped flap 60 hangs from the rear wall 14 of the pouch 10 and is folded under the coil 43 relative to the front wall 12. However, it will be appreciated that the arrangement of the cross-sectionally shaped flaps 60 can be reversed so that the cross-sectionally shaped flaps 60 depend from the front wall 12 as desired. The folding direction of the drainage chute portion 24 can also be reversed if desired, but the folding direction of the drainage chute portion 24 is such that the cross-sectionally shaped flap 60 is located on the front or rear walls 12, 14 of the pouch 10. It will be understood that it can be independent of whether or not it is done.

  In the illustrated form, the cross-sectionally shaped flap 60 and flap fastener 68 provide a secondary retainer for retaining the drain chute portion 24 in its closed coiled configuration. In a modified form, the closure fastener may be omitted and the cross-section shaped flap 60 and the flap fastener 68 may provide a primary retainer for retaining the drain chute portion 24 in its closed configuration.

  The fastener parts 70, 72 are characterized by the same extent as the walls 12, 14 on which the fastener parts 70, 72 are carried, from the roll stock in which the fastener parts 70, 72 are pre-mounted as a continuous piece. Although it will be possible to cut walls, it will be described in detail only for the second embodiment, but it will be understood that the first embodiment may also incorporate this idea.

  FIGS. 10 and 11 illustrate modifications to the arrangement of the reinforcing members 32 on the drain chute portion 24. This modification can be utilized with or without the flap arrangement described above. The main difference in the correction is that at least one reinforcing member 32 is spaced from the discharge opening 26 by a distance “c” that is at least 0.5 cm, more preferably at least 1 cm, more preferably at least about 1.5 cm. It is to be done. Separating the reinforcing member 32 from the discharge opening 26 provides a protective distance between the waste drainage and the point at which the wearer needs to treat the ostomy pouch 10 at the reinforcing member 32. It is possible to improve hygiene. This can also reduce the risk of the wearer's hands getting dirty due to splashing of waste water waste (which may have a high fluid consistency). Further, the separation allows the wearer to controllably inflate the drain chute portion 24 for cleaning after draining.

  Where outlet fasteners 34 are provided, the reinforcing members 32 are placed between the respective outlet fastener parts 36, 38 and the discharge opening 26. When the drain chute portion 24 is wound into the closed position, the wearer can start the first folding down or above the reinforcing member 32 (FIG. 11) (FIG. 11b). In one embodiment, the distance “c” is greater than the distance “d” between the distal most reinforcing member 32 and the respective fastener component 36 from the drain opening 26. Such a distance “c” is sufficient to allow the region 80 of the drainage chute portion 24 between the reinforcement member 32 and the discharge opening 26 to begin the folding operation without interfering with the fastener part 36. Ensure that it is foldable.

  In a highly preferred form, the distance “c” is approximately equal to or slightly less than the dimension “e” of the reinforcing member 32 that defines the unit fold length of the drainage chute portion 24 (ie, the distance between the assumed fold lines 40). . Such a length allows the drainage chute portion 24 to be folded under or over the reinforcing member 32 without the material under the reinforcing member 32 interfering with the fastener engagement. The height A of the end of the drainage chute portion 24 to be wound preferably does not exceed the height C of the back surface of the fastener 36, or most preferably does not exceed the height B of the apex of the formed coil 43 (see FIG. 11c). The drain chute portion 24 can be folded as shown by the arrow 39 in FIG. 11a.

  In an additional aspect, the present invention provides a collapsible drain chute 24 for the ostomy pouch 10 that is provided on the face of the drain chute 24 and spaced from the discharge opening 26 of the drain chute 24. And at least one reinforcing member 32 defining a region of the plastic pouch film on a surface between the reinforcing member 32 and the discharge opening 26. The spacing may be at least 0.5 cm, more preferably at least 1 cm, more preferably at least about 1.5 cm. The footprint of the at least one reinforcing member 32 extends substantially completely across the internal drainage channel in the drainage chute 24 and may preferably overlap the weld seams 16 on either side of the internal drainage channel. If the reinforcing member 32 defines a unit fold length of the drain chute 24, the spacing may optionally be substantially the same as the unit fold length. As described above, the reinforcement member 32 may be substantially planar and may deflect the drain chute 24 and / or the outlet 22 opening to a closed state, or the reinforcement member 32 may be slightly or substantially pre-curved. The outlet 22 opening and / or the drain chute 24 can be deflected to the open state.

  It should be noted that the above-described embodiments are illustrations of preferred forms of the invention in preferred forms. There may be many modifications, improvements and equivalents within the scope and / or spirit of the claimed invention.

Claims (20)

A drainable ostomy pouch,
A collection part consisting of opposing faces joined together with a common peripheral seam defining the overall profile;
A drainage chute portion depending from the collection portion and having a discharge opening for allowing the contents to be emptied from the pouch, wherein the drainage chute portion is in a first direction from the collection portion. A drainage chute portion foldable between an extended open state and a closed state in which the drainage chute portion is folded toward the collection portion;
A first flap and a second flap on opposite sides of the pouch and extending into the region of the drainage chute portion, each having a proximal end attached to each side; A generally convex curved outer contour extending to the distal end, and the entire outer shape of the collection portion is smoothly and continuously continued without abruptly changing the shape or curvature, each of the flaps comprising: (i) the drainage When the chute portion is in its open state, the drain chute portion extends beyond the distal end of each flap in the first direction; and (ii) when the drain chute portion is in its closed state; At least one of the flaps is dimensioned to extend beyond the drain chute portion in the first direction; and a first flap and a second flap;
And at least one fastener for releasably fastening the flap in the closed state,
A drainable ostomy pouch, wherein the drainage chute portion is in its closed configuration and the flap has a generally convex curved periphery in the region of the drainage chute portion when the flap is fastened closed.   Both the first flap and the second flap such that when the drain chute portion is in its closed state, both of the flaps extend beyond the drain chute portion in the first direction. The drainable ostomy pouch of claim 1, dimensioned.   The drainable ostomy pouch of claim 1, wherein the at least one fastener comprises a fastener for releasably fastening the flaps to each other.   4. The drainable ostomy pouch of claim 3, wherein the flap fastener comprises a respective fastener part or surface provided at the distal end of each flap.   The drainable ostomy of claim 1, wherein the fastener is installed to fasten the flaps to each other at a position below the level of the drain chute when the drain chute is in its closed configuration. Pouch.   The drainable ostomy pouch according to claim 1, wherein the first flap and the second flap are substantially the same size and shape as each other.   The drainable ostomy pouch of claim 1, wherein the first flap and the second flap are dimensioned such that the flaps are generally coextensive with one another.   The drainable ostomy pouch according to claim 1, wherein each of the first flap and the second flap has a convex curved shape.   The drainable ostomy pouch of claim 1, wherein at least one of the flaps comprises a comfort layer material.   The drainable ostomy pouch of claim 1, further comprising at least one reinforcing member disposed at or near a discharge opening of the drain chute portion, the reinforcing member being stiffer than the material of the drain chute portion.   The drainable ostomy pouch of claim 1, comprising at least one fastener for releasably retaining the drain chute portion in a closed configuration. A drainable ostomy pouch,
A collection part consisting of opposing faces joined together with a common peripheral seam defining the overall profile;
A drain chute portion depending from the collection portion and having a drain opening for allowing the contents to be emptied from the pouch, wherein the drain chute portion extends from the collection portion A drainage chute portion that is foldable between a state and a closed state in which the drainage chute portion is folded toward the collection portion;
A first flap and a second flap on opposing surfaces of the pouch and extending into the region of the drainage chute portion, each of the flaps being generally convex surfaces extending from the proximal end to the distal end, respectively A first flap and a second flap having a perimeter that includes a curved outer profile, and wherein the overall outer shape of the collection portion is smoothly continuous without abruptly changing shape or curvature;
At least one fastener for releasably fastening the flaps to each other ;
When said drainage chute portion is in its closed configuration, the convex curved portion of the flap, in the region of the drainage chute portion, that provides a convex curved peripheral shape to the pouch, drainable ostomy pouch.   The drainable ostomy pouch of claim 12, wherein the convex curved portions of the flap are substantially aligned with each other.   The drainable ostomy pouch of claim 12, wherein the flaps are substantially aligned with each other on the front and rear surfaces of the pouch.   13. A drainable ostomy pouch according to claim 12, wherein the flap fastener comprises a respective fastener part or face provided at the distal end of each flap.   13. The drainable ostomy according to claim 12, wherein the fastener is arranged to fasten the flaps to each other at a level below the drain chute portion when the drain chute portion is in its closed configuration. Pouch.   The drainable ostomy pouch of claim 12, wherein at least one of the flaps comprises a comfort layer material.   18. A drainable ostomy pouch according to claim 17, wherein the comfort layer on the flap is an extension of the comfort layer on each side of the pouch.   The drainable ostomy device according to claim 12, further comprising at least one reinforcing member disposed at or near the discharge opening of the drain chute portion, the reinforcing member being stiffer than the material of the drain chute portion. Pouch.   The drainable ostomy pouch of claim 12, comprising at least one fastener for releasably retaining the drain chute portion in a closed configuration.

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