NZ548557A

NZ548557A - Compression apparatus

Info

Publication number: NZ548557A
Application number: NZ548557A
Authority: NZ
Inventors: Elise Tordella; Christopher Tesluk; Malcolm Bock
Original assignee: Tyco Healthcare
Priority date: 2004-02-23
Filing date: 2005-02-23
Publication date: 2010-02-26

Abstract

A compression apparatus (10) is provided that includes a sleeve (12) configured for disposal about a limb. The sleeve includes a first portion (14) defining a first expandable chamber (16) and a second portion (18) defining a second expandable chamber (20) and a third expandable chamber (22). The second portion includes a connector (64) in fluid communication with a pressurized fluid source and the chambers thereby facilitating fluid communication between the pressurized fluid source and the chambers. The first portion is removable from the second portion. The first portion may be connected to the second portion via a perforated attachment. The sleeve may define at least one ventilation opening (46, 50). The connector can communicate with the chambers via a tubular pathway. The sleeve may be convertible from a length extending from below a knee to above the knee, to a length extending solely below the knee.

Description

<div class="application article clearfix" id="description"> WO 2005/082315 548557 PCT/US2005/005600 COMPRESSION APPARATUS 5 BACKGROUND 1. Technical Field The present disclosure generally relates to the field of vascular therapy for application to a limb of a body, and more particularly, to a compression apparatus having removable portions. 10 2. Description of the Related Art A major concern for immobile patients and persons alike are medical conditions that form clots in the blood, such as, deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and peripheral edema. Such patients and persons include those undergoing surgery, anesthesia, extended periods of bed rest, etc. These blood clotting conditions generally occur in the deep veins of the lower 15 extremities and/or pelvis. These veins, such as the iliac, femoral, popiteal and tibial return deoxygenated to the heart. For example, when blood circulation in these veins is retarded due to illness, injury or inactivity, there is a tendency for blood to accumulate or pool. A static pool of blood is ideal for clot formations. A major risk associated with this condition is interference with cardiovascular circulation. Most seriously, a fragment of the blood clot 20 can break loose and migrate. A pulmonary emboli can form blocking a main pulmonary artery, which may be life threatening. The conditions and resulting risks associated with patient immobility may be controlled or alleviated by applying intermittent pressure to a patient's limb, such as, for example, a leg to assist in blood circulation. Known devices have been employed to assist 25 in blood circulation, such as, one piece pads and compression boots. See, for example, U.S. Patent Nos. 6,290,662 and 6,494,852. For example, sequential compression devices have been used, which consist of an air pump connected to a disposable wraparound pad by a series of air tubes. The wraparound pad is placed around the patient's leg. Air is then forced into different parts of 30 the wraparound pad in sequence, creating pressure around the calves and improving venous return. 548557 These known devices may suffer from various drawbacks due to their bulk and cumbersome nature of use. These drawbacks reduce comfort, compliance and may disadvantageously prevent mobility of the patient as recovery progresses after surgery. Therefore, it would be desirable to overcome the disadvantages and drawbacks 5 of the prior art with a prophylaxis sequential compression apparatus that reduces bulk and is not cumbersome during use to improve comfort and compliance to a patient. It would be desirable if the prophylaxis sequential compression apparatus includes a removable portion to achieve the advantages of the present disclosure. It would be highly desirable if the prophylaxis sequential compression apparatus has a valve connector that facilitates 10 quick disconnect from a pressurized fluid source. It is contemplated that the prophylaxis sequential compression apparatus is easily and efficiently manufactured. Object of the Invention It is an object of the present invention to substantially overcome or at least 15 ameliorate one or more of the disadvantages of the prior art, or to at least provide a useful alternative. Summary of the Invention Accordingly, a compression apparatus is preferably provided that reduces bulk and is not cumbersome during use to improve comfort and compliance to a patient. 20 Desirably, the compression apparatus includes a removable portion to achieve the advantages of the present disclosure. Most desirably, the compression apparatus has a valve connector that facilitates quick disconnect from a pressurized fluid source. The compression apparatus is easily and efficiently fabricated. One aspect of the present invention provides a sleeve configured for disposal 25 about a limb, the sleeve including a first portion defining a first expandable chamber and a second portion defining a second expandable chamber and a third expandable chamber, the second portion including a connector for fluidly connecting a pressurized fluid source to the first expandable chamber, the second expandable chamber and the 30 third expandable chamber thereby facilitating fluid communication between the pressurized fluid source and the chambers, the first portion of the sleeve being removable from the second portion of the sleeve, and 2134718-1:bab:KLJ intellectual property office OF n.z. 25 AUG 2009 548557 2a perforations in the sleeve extending continuously across the sleeve between the first and second portions so that the sleeve may be torn along the perforations to completely remove the first portion of the sleeve located in use about a user's thigh away from the second portion of the sleeve located in use about a user's calf. Another aspect provides a compression apparatus comprising: a sleeve configured to wrap about a leg, the sleeve including a thigh portion defining a first inflatable chamber having sub-chambers, the sleeve further including a calf portion defining a second inflatable chamber having sub-chambers and an ankle portion defining a third inflatable chamber having sub-chambers, the calf portion of the sleeve including a valve connector that for fluidly connecting both a pressurized fluid source to the chambers via a tubular pathway, the pressurized fluid is delivered from said pressurized fluid source to said chambers to carry out vascular therapy, said tubular pathway comprising first tubing extending from the valve connector and fluidly connecting to the first expandable chamber, second tubing extending from the valve connector and fluidly connecting to the second expandable chamber, and third tubing extending from the valve connector and fluid connecting to the third expandable chamber, the thigh portion of the sleeve being removably connected to the calf portion of the sleeve via perforations in the sleeve extending continuously across the sleeve, said first and second portions of the sleeve being located on opposite sides of the perforations whereby the sleeve may be torn along the perforations to completely remove the thigh portion from the calf portion, and the first tubing of the tubular pathway being removable from the valve connector when the thigh portion is removed from the calf portion and the second tubing and third tubing remaining attached to the valve connector when the thigh portion is removed from the calf portion. A third aspect of the present invention provides a method of using a compression apparatus comprising the steps of: providing a sleeve configured for disposal about a member, the sleeve including a first portion defining a first inflatable chamber and a second portion defining a second inflatable chamber and a third inflatable chamber, the second portion including a connector in fluid communication with a pressurized fluid source and the chambers 213471B-1:bab:KLJ intellectual property officf OF M..z 25 AUG 2009 d c p c i \/ p n 548557 2b thereby facilitating fluid communication between the pressurized fluid source and the chambers, the first portion being removable from the second portion; disposing the sleeve about the member; delivering pressurized fluid to the first inflatable chamber; delivering pressurized fluid to the second inflatable chamber; delivering pressurized fluid to the third inflatable chamber; deflating the chambers; and completely removing the first portion of the sleeve from the second portion of the sleeve by tearing the sleeve along perforations in the sleeve. A fourth aspect of the present invention provides a compression apparatus comprising: an expandable sleeve configured for disposal about a leg, said sleeve having boundary edges, the sleeve having a length which in use extends below a knee of the leg to above the knee of the leg, wherein the sleeve in use is convertible from the length extending from below the knee to above the knee, to a length extending solely below the knee by tearing a thigh portion of the sleeve completely from a calf portion of the sleeve, along perforations in the sleeve extending continuously across the sleeve from adjacent one boundary edge of the sleeve to adjacent an opposite boundary edge of the sleeve. A fifth aspect of the present invention provides a method of using a compression apparatus comprising the steps of: providing an expandable sleeve configured for disposal about a member; disposing the sleeve about the member such that the sleeve has a length which in use extends below a first part of the member to above the first part of the member; delivering pressurized fluid to the sleeve; deflating the sleeve; and converting the sleeve from the length extending from below the first part to above the first part, to a length extending solely below the first part by tearing the sleeve along perforations in the sleeve to completely remove a portion of the sleeve extending above the first part. A sixth aspect of the invention provides a compression apparatus comprising: a sleeve configured for disposal about a member, the sleeve including a first portion defining a first expandable chamber and a second portion defining a second expandable chamber and a third expandable chamber, 2134718-1 :bab:KLJ intellectual property office of N.z 25 AUG 2009 Dcrcn/pn 548557 2c the second portion including a connector for fluidly connecting a pressurized fluid source and to the first expandable chamber, the second expandable chamber and the third expandable chamber, the fluid is delivered from said pressurized fluid source to said chambers to carry out vascular therapy, perforations in the sleeve extending continuously across the sleeve, said first and second portions of the sleeve being located on opposite sides of the perforations, the sleeve is torn along the perforations to completely remove the first portion of the sleeve from the second portion of the sleeve, first tubing extending from the connector and fluidly connecting to the first expandable chamber, second tubing extending from the connector and fluidly connecting to the second expandable chamber, third tubing extending from the connector and fluidly connecting to the third expandable chamber, said first tubing comprising a quick disconnect port communicating with a fluid port in said connector permitting easy removal of the first tubing from the connector when the first portion of the sleeve is completely removed from the second portion of the sleeve, said second tubing and said third tubing remaining attached to the connector when the first portion of the sleeve is removed from the second portion of the sleeve to completely remove a portion of the sleeve extending above a first part. The compression apparatus, in accordance with the principles of at least a preferred embodiment of the present disclosure includes a thigh length compression sleeve that converts to a knee length sleeve via tearing away or otherwise removing the thigh bladder and disconnecting the thigh bladder air supply line. In one embodiment, the thigh bladder air supply line will remove easily along with the thigh bladder, attaching at or near the point where the thigh bladder is removed from the sleeve. This would allow for a single motion to accomplish both removing of the thigh bladder and the thigh bladder supply line. The convertible sleeve allows the patient to use a more comfortable sleeve (knee vs. thigh) as risk for DVT decreases after surgery. This provides practitioners with various options while using a single apparatus. 2134718-1 :bab:KLJ intellectual property OFFICE OF N.Z. 25 AUG 2009 RECEIVED J WO 2005/082315 548557 PCT/US2005/005600 In another embodiment, the compression apparatus is perforated for improved compliance and comfort with the patient during the overall length of time for wearing the apparatus. It is contemplated that the apparatus can be used with both nomadic and/or stationary compression systems. A pressurized fluid source continues to deliver pressurized 5 fluid after removal of the valve. The pressurized fluid source can signal a high alarm if there are kinks in the tubing and a low alarm if there are leaks in the tubing. The compression apparatus is sequentially activated by increasing pressure through the tubes to correspond with the three portions of the sleeve. The distal end is the ankle bladder (high pressure), the proximal end is the thigh bladder (low pressure). The pressurized fluid source 10 pumps air to the sleeve in a 60 second cycle with 11 seconds being compression and the rest being decompression. In one embodiment, in accordance with the principles of the present disclosure, the compression apparatus includes a sleeve configured for disposal about a limb. The sleeve includes a first portion defining a first expandable chamber and a second portion defining a 15 second expandable chamber and a third expandable chamber. The second portion includes a connector in fluid communication with a pressurized fluid source and the first expandable chamber, the second expandable chamber and the third expandable chamber thereby facilitating fluid communication between the pressurized fluid source and the chambers. The first portion is removable from the second portion. 20 The first portion is connected to the second portion via a perforated attachment. The first portion may be configured for disposal about a first part of the limb and the second portion is configured for disposal about a second part of the limb. The second expandable chamber may be disposed with the second portion for disposal about a second part of the limb and the third expandable chamber is disposed with the second portion for disposal 25 about a third part of the limb. Alternatively, the compression apparatus can include a variety of welds and bladders forming a quilting effect. For example, the first, second and third expandable chambers can each define at least one sub-chamber. The sleeve may define at least one ventilation opening. The at least one opening can 30 include openings formed in a surface of the expandable chambers. The at least one opening 3 WO 2005/082315 548557 PCT/US2005/005600 may include a slit disposed between the second expandable chamber and the third expandable chamber. The connector can communicate with the chambers via a tubular pathway. The tubular pathway of the first expandable chamber may be removable from the connector. A 5 pressurized fluid may be delivered to the chambers for expansion thereof in a sequential time interval such that, for example, the first expandable chamber is expanded, followed by (2.5 seconds later) the second expandable chamber, followed by (3 seconds later) the third expandable chamber to a total of 11 seconds from the start of the first expandable chamber. The chambers are then all simultaneously vented to the atmosphere. 10 In an alternate embodiment, the compression apparatus includes a sleeve configured to wrap about a leg and defining a plurality of ventilation openings. The sleeve includes a thigh portion defining a first inflatable chamber having sub-chambers. The sleeve further includes a calf portion defining a second inflatable chamber having sub-chambers and an ankle portion defining a third inflatable chamber having sub-chambers. The ankle portion 15 includes a valve connector that fluidly communicates both a pressurized fluid source and the chambers via a tubular pathway to facilitate inflation of the chambers. The thigh portion is removably connected to the calf portion via a perforated attachment and the tubular pathway of the first inflatable chamber is removable from the valve connector. In an alternate embodiment, the compression apparatus includes an expandable 20 sleeve that is configured for disposal about a leg. The sleeve extends a length from below a knee of the leg to above the knee. The sleeve is convertible from the length extending from below the knee to above the knee, to a length extending solely below the knee. The length of the sleeve extending from below the knee to above the knee may include a first portion disposed about a thigh of the leg, the first portion being removable from the sleeve. The 25 first portion may be connected to the sleeve via perforations. 1 In one method, the ankle bladder is compressed for 2Vi seconds, the mid-section bladder is compressed for 2/4 seconds and the proximal section bladder is also compressed for 2 Vol seconds. After the 11th second elapses, all bladders are vented simultaneously. The thigh portion may be torn away, thereby converting from a full leg to a knee length. A 30 ventilation slit is disposed on the back of the calf portion. This dissipates heat, relieves 4 WO 2005/082315 548557 PCT/US2005/005600 itching and accommodates movement. A knit or hosiery under the compressive sleeve may be used. In an alternate embodiment, a method of performing compression on a limb of a body includes the steps of providing a sleeve configured for disposal about the limb, the 5 sleeve includes a first portion defining a first inflatable chamber and a second portion defining a second inflatable chamber and a third inflatable chamber, the second portion includes a connector in fluid communication with a pressurized fluid source and the chambers thereby facilitating fluid communication between the pressurized fluid source and the chambers, the first portion is removable from the second portion; disposing the sleeve 10 about the limb; delivering pressurized fluid to the first inflatable chamber; delivering pressurized fluid to the second inflatable chamber; delivering pressurized fluid to the third inflatable chamber; deflating the chambers; and removing the first portion from the second portion. The steps of delivering may each be performed for a duration of 2.5 seconds. The 15 step of removing may include disconnecting the first inflatable chamber from the connector. The step of removing can include tearing the first portion from the second portion via a perforated attachment. In an alternate embodiment, a method of performing compression on a limb of a body includes the steps of providing an expandable sleeve configured for disposal about a 20 leg; disposing the sleeve about the limb such that the sleeve extends a length from below a knee of the leg to above the knee; delivering pressurized fluid to the sleeve; deflating the sleeve; and converting the sleeve from the length extending from below the knee to above the knee, to a length extending solely below the knee. The step of disposing the sleeve about the limb such that the sleeve extends a length from below a knee of the leg to above 25 the knee can include a first portion of the sleeve being disposed about a thigh of the leg. The step of converting may include tearing the first portion from the sleeve. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS The objects and features of the present disclosure, which are believed to be novel, are set forth with the particularity in the appended claims. The present disclosure, both as to 30 its organization and manner of operation, together with farther objectives and advantages, 5 WO 2005/082315 548557 PCT/US2005/005600 may be best understood by reference to the following description, taken in connection with the accompanying drawings, which are described below. FIG. 1 is a perspective view of one particular embodiment of a compression apparatus in accordance with the principles of the present disclosure; 5 FIG. 2 is a side cross-sectional view of a chamber of the apparatus shown in FIG. 1; FIG. 3 is a top view of a connector of the apparatus shown in FIG. 1; FIGS. 4A and 4B are perspective views of the apparatus shown in FIG. 1 disposed about a limb as well as a pressurized fluid source; FIGS. 4C and 4D are perspective views of the apparatus shown; 10 FIGS. 5A and 5B are perspective views of the apparatus shown in FIGS. 4A-4D whereby a tubular pathway of a portion of the apparatus is removed from the connector; FIGS. 6A and 6B are perspective views of the apparatus shown in FIG. 5 whereby a portion of the apparatus is removed; FIG. 7 is a pressure versus time plot illustrating sequential compression of the 15 apparatus shown in FIG. 1; and FIG. 8 is an alternate embodiment of the compression apparatus shown in FIG. 1. 6 WO 2005/082315 PCT/US2005/005600 DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EXEMPLARY EMBODIMENTS The exemplary embodiments of the compression apparatus and methods of operation disclosed are discussed in terms of vascular therapy including a prophylaxis compression apparatus for application to a limb of a body and more particularly in terms of 5 a compression apparatus having removable portions. It is contemplated that the compression apparatus may be employed for preventing and overcoming the risks associated with patient immobility. It is further contemplated that the compression apparatus alleviates the conditions arising from patient immobility to prevent for example, DVT, peripheral edema, etc. It is contemplated that the compression apparatus according to 10 the present disclosure may be attributable to all types of venous compression systems, including, but not limited to a prophylaxis sequential compression apparatus. The term "prophylaxis sequential" shall not be construed as limiting the general venous compression apparatus described herein. It is envisioned that the present disclosure, however, finds application with a wide variety of immobile conditions of persons and patients alike, such 15 as, for example, those undergoing surgery, anesthesia, extended periods of bed rest, obesity, advanced age, malignancy, prior thromboembolism, etc. In the discussion that follows, the term "proximal" refers to a portion of a structure that is closer to a torso of a subject and the term "distal" refers to a portion that is further from the torso. As used herein the term "subject" refers to a patient undergoing vascular 20 therapy using the compression apparatus. According to the present disclosure, the term "practitioner" refers to an individual administering the compression apparatus and may include support personnel. The following discussion includes a description of the compression apparatus, followed by a description of an exemplary method of operating the compression apparatus 25 in accordance with the principals of the present disclosure. Reference will now be made in detail to the exemplary embodiments and disclosure, which are illustrated with the accompanying figures. Turning now to the figures, wherein. like components are designated by like reference numerals throughout the several views. Referring initially to FIGS. 1 and 2, there 30 is illustrated a prophylaxis sequential compression apparatus 10, constructed in accordance with the principals of the present disclosure. Compression apparatus 10 includes a sleeve 7 548557 12 configured for disposal about a limb, such as, for example, a leg L (FIGS. 4-6) of a subject's body. It is contemplated that sleeve 12 and other parts of compression apparatus 10 may be disposed, wrapped, mounted, etc., with various limbs, extremities, etc. of a subject's body, such as, for example, legs, arms, etc. 5 Sleeve 12 includes a first portion, such as, for example, thigh portion 14 that defines a first expandable chamber, such as, for example, first inflatable chamber 16. A second portion 18 of sleeve 12 defines a second expandable chamber, such as, for example, second inflatable chamber 20 and a third expandable chamber, such as, for example, third inflatable chamber 22. It is envisioned that the first portion 14 and the 10 second portion 18 may include one or a plurality of expandable chambers. It is further envisioned that sleeve 12 or portions thereof may be disposable. Second portion 18 has a calf portion 24 that includes second inflatable chamber 20 and an ankle portion 26 that includes third inflatable chamber 22. It is contemplated that the first portion and second portion 18 may be disposed about various portions of a 15 subject's limb, according to the requirements of a particular vascular therapy application. Ankle portion 26 includes a valve connector 64 in fluid communication with a pressurized fluid source 30 via valve connector 28 and tubing 62 (FIGS. 4C and 4D) and chambers 16, 20 and 22 via a fluid pathway including tubing, as will be discussed below (see, for example, the valve connector described in U.S. Patent Application Ser. No. 10/784,639 20 Feb. 23, 2004 (US 20050184264) and entitled Fluid Conduit Connector Apparatus, the entire contents of which is hereby incorporated by reference herein). Tubing 62 is made up of three separate tubes or lumens 65A, 65B and 65 C. This configuration facilitates fluid communication between pressurized fluid 30 and chambers 16,20 and 22. Thigh portion 14 is removable from second portion 18. For example, calf 25 portion 24 is removably connected to thigh portion 14 via a perforated attachment 32, as will be discussed. This removable configuration advantageously reduces the bulk of compression apparatus 10 via facile manipulation to increase comfort and compliance to a subject. Compression apparatus 10 also provides a subject with increased mobility. It is envisioned that sleeve 12 may include flexible sections, such as, elastic or spandex 30 materials, disposed between the portions to facilitate mobility of a limb during use. 1178109-1:KEH intellectual property office of n.z 11 APR 2008 RECEIVED WO 2005/082315 548557 PCT/US2005/005600 As best shown at FIGS. 1 and 2, sleeve 12 includes a top sheet 34 and a bottom sheet 36 that are overlaid to form the sleeve. Top sheet 34 and bottom sheet 36 are fixedly joined at seams that define inflatable chambers 16, 20 and 22. A seam 38 defines chamber 16, a seam 40 defines chamber 20 and a seam defines chamber 22. An edge 44 extends 5 beyond seams 38, 40 and 42 about sleeve 12. It is contemplated that sleeve 12 includes a plurality of seams, disposed variously thereabout, that join top sheet 34 and bottom sheet 36. It is further contemplated that the seams may be welded, sewn, formed by adhesive, heat sealed, etc. Top sheet 34 and bottom sheet 36 are fabricated from materials suitable for inflation 10 of chambers 16, 20 and 22, such as, for example, films and fabrics, such as PVC (polyvinyl chloride) and PE (polyethylene), depending on the particular vascular therapy application and/or preference. Semi-flexible and flexible fabrics, such as urethanes and silicones may also be used. Sleeve 12 may include separate structure that include chambers 16, 20 and 22 and are disposed with or mounted to sheets 34, 36. One skilled in the art, however, will 15 realize that other materials and fabrication methods suitable for assembly and manufacture, in accordance with the present disclosure, also would be appropriate. Sleeve 12 defines vent openings, such as, for example sleeve apertures 46 that provide cooling to an adjacent portion of the limb of the subject. Sleeve apertures 46 pass completely through top sheet 34 and bottom sheet 36. This advantageously improves 20 comfort to the subject during use. Sleeve 12 includes a weld portion 48 that surrounds sleeve aperture 46 to seal off the respective chamber from the aperture and prevent fluid communication therebetween. Sleeve 12 also includes vent holes 47 to provide cooling. It is envisioned that sleeve 12 may include a plurality of vent openings disposed variously thereabout. 25 A vent opening, such as, for example, vent slit 50 is disposed between inflatable chamber 20 and inflatable chamber 22. Vent slit 50 passes completely through top sheet 34 and bottom sheet 36. The vent slit advantageously provides cooling to the subject and increases mobility of the calf and ankle during use. It is contemplated that vent slit 50 may extend various lengths. 30 Thigh portion 14 includes an axial line of spot welds 52 that define sub-chambers 54 of inflatable chamber 16. Calf portion 24 similarly includes an axial line of spot welds 54 9 that define sub-chambers 56 of inflatable chamber 20 and ankle portion 26 includes spot welds 58 that define sub-chambers 60 of inflatable chamber 22. It is envisioned the sub-chambers may be alternatively formed via a continuous weld, adhesive, hot seal, etc. It is further envisioned that welds 58 may be disposed in various orientations to create alternative configurations for the sub-chambers. Valve connector 28 communicates with chambers 16, 20 and 22 via a fluid pathway. The fluid pathway includes tubing 62 that connects valve connector 28 to pressurized fluid source 30, which may include a pump (see, for example, the controller pump described in U.S. Patent Application Ser. No. 10/784,323 Feb. 23, 2004 (US 20050187500) and entitled Compression Treatment System, the entire contents of which is hereby incorporated by reference herein). Pressurized fluid source 30 may be stationary or portable. It is contemplated that pressurized fluid source 30 may include the necessary electronics, computer software, etc. to carry out vascular therapy, in accordance with the principles of the present disclosure. Tubing 62 attaches to valve connector 28 via a coupler 64, as shown in FIG. 3. Tubing 66 extends from valve connector 28 and fluidly connects to inflatable chamber 20. Tubing 67 extends from valve connector 28 and fluidly connects to inflatable chamber 22. Tubing 68 extends from valve connector 28 and fluidly connects to inflatable chamber 16. Tubing 68 includes a quick disconnect port 70. Port 70 attaches with valve connector 28 and is easily removable to facilitate removal of thigh portion 14 from calf portion 24. Tubing 62 and lumens 65A, 65B and 65C correspond with tubes 67, 66 and 68, respectively. It is envisioned that valve connector 28 may be fixed with sleeve 12, removable, tethered, etc. It is further envisioned that port 70 may be fixed with valve connector 28 and tubing 68 is removable from thigh portion 14. Sleeve 12 includes securing parts, such as, for example, hook and loop pads 72 mounted in an orientation for engagement with corresponding hook and loop pads 74. Hook and loop pads 72, 74 enable secure mounting of sleeve 12 with leg L of a subject. It is contemplated that one or a plurality of securing parts that may be variously disposed about sleeve 12. It is further contemplated that the securing parts may include for example, clips, adhesive, pins, etc. 10 1178109-1:KEH 1 1 Wr*R 2008 RFP.FIVED WO 2005/082315 548557 PCT/US2005/005600 Referring to FIGS. 4-7, compression apparatus 10, similar to that described above, is assembled, sterilized and packaged for use. In operation, compression apparatus 10 is provided and manipulated for disposal about leg L of the subject. Tubing 66 is connected with calf portion 24 and tubing 67 is connected with ankle portion 26. Tubing 68 is 5 connected to thigh portion 14. Tubing 66, 67 and 68 is connected to valve connector 28, which is connected with tubing 62 and pressurized fluid source 30 (FIGS. 4C and 4D). Therefore, the fluid pathway of compression apparatus 10 establishes fluid communication between pressurized fluid source 30 and chambers 16, 20 and 22. Sleeve 12 is wrapped about leg L and secured thereto via hook and loop pads 72, 74, 10 discussed above, as shown in FIGS. 4A and 4B. Sleeve 12 extends a length from below a knee of leg L, via second portion 18, to above the knee, via thigh portion 14. Compression apparatus 10 is sequentially activated by delivering pressurized fluid to chambers 16, 20 and 22 via the fluid pathway. In one embodiment and as shown at FIG. 7, pressurized fluid source 30 delivers air to sleeve 12 in a 60 second cycle including 11 seconds in compression 15 and 49 seconds in decompression. Compressed air is delivered to inflatable chamber 22 for 2.5 seconds. Then, compressed air is delivered to inflatable chamber 20 for 2.5 seconds. Compressed air is then delivered to inflatable chamber 16 for 2.5 seconds. Compression apparatus 10 maintains inflation for several seconds until the 11th second and then chambers 16, 20 and 22 are deflated simultaneously. It is contemplated that this sequential 20 compression may continue for a plurality of cycles, according to the requirements of a particular vascular therapy application. Other sequential compression cycles are also contemplated. It is envisioned that various forms of fluid may be delivered to sleeve 12, such as, for example, liquid, gases, etc. After a desired period of time for sequential compression elapses, e.g., recovery 25 time, etc. pursuant to the requirements of a particular vascular therapy application, thigh portion 14 may be removed from second portion 18. Thus, sleeve 12 is convertible from the length extending from below the knee to above the knee, to a length extending solely below the knee. Sleeve 12 is manipulated such that thigh portion 14 is removed and torn from calf portion 24 via perforations 32, as shown in FIGS. 6A and 6B. Port 70, connected to tubing 30 68, is easily manipulated to quick disconnect from valve connector 28, as shown in FIG. 5B. The remaining portion of sleeve 12, second portion 18 including calf portion 24 and ankle portion 26, is stand alone and continues to operate as described above. This converts sleeve 11 548557 12 from a full leg length apparatus to a knee length apparatus. Compression apparatus 10 may be employed to completion of a desired vascular therapy application. Other methods of use are also contemplated, for example, the thigh portion 14 may not be removed and remain with the sleeve 12. 5 As stated above, upon the optional removal of thigh portion 14, a user or practitioner disconnects tubing member 68 and disconnect port 70 from connector 28. Connector 28 (and optionally disconnect port 70) is configured such that upon separation of tube 68 from connector 28, a desired amount of fluid flow from fluid source 30 is continuously achieved through the connector 28. Such continued fluid flow is desirable 10 to maintain continuity with the pressurized fluid source 30. That is, fluid flow adjustments to the fluid source 30 need not be made if a user or practitioner decides to remove thigh portion 14 from the compression apparatus 10. Even after removal of thigh portion 14, the pressurized fluid source 30 will continue to deliver the same amount of fluid and pressure through tubing 65C into connector 28 and out into the atmosphere. 15 Referring to FIG. 8, an alternate embodiment of compression apparatus 10 is shown. Sleeve 12, similar to that described above, includes thigh portion 14 and a second portion 118. Second portion 118 has a calf portion 124 and an ankle portion 126 that include an inflatable chamber 122. Pressurized fluid source 30 (FIG. 1) fluidly communicates with sleeve 12 via valve connector 28 and tubing 62 (FIG. 1). Valve 20 connector 28 fluidly communicates with chambers 16 and 122 via separate tubes 68 and 166, respectively, for employment similar to that described above, including the optional removal of thigh portion 14 via perforations 32. It will be understood that various modifications may be made to the embodiments disclosed herein. For example, the tear away and removable features of the 25 instant compression apparatus 10 may be employed with other compression apparatuses (see, compression apparatus described in U.S. Patent Application Ser. No. 10/784,640 (US 20040182468) filed on Feb. 23, 2004 and entitled Compression Apparatus, the entire contents of which is hereby incorporated by reference herein). Therefore, the above description should not be construed as limiting, but merely as exemplification of the 30 various embodiments. Those skilled in the art will envision other modifications within the scope and spirit of the claims appended hereto. 12 1178109-1 :KEH INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY OFFICE OF N.Z. VI APR 2008 RECEIVED 548557 RECEIVED at IPONZ on 22 January 2010 13 </div>

Claims

<div class="application article clearfix printTableText" id="claims"> We claim:

1. A compression apparatus comprising: a sleeve configured for disposal about a limb, the sleeve including a first portion defining a first expandable chamber and a second portion defining a second expandable chamber and a third expandable chamber, the second portion including a connector for fluidly connecting a pressurized fluid source to the first expandable chamber, the second expandable chamber and the third expandable chamber thereby facilitating fluid communication between the pressurized fluid source and the chambers, the first portion of the sleeve being removable from the second portion of the sleeve, and perforations in the sleeve extending continuously across the sleeve between the first and second portions so that the sleeve may be torn along the perforations to completely remove the first portion of the sleeve located in use about a user's thigh away from the second portion of the sleeve located in use about a user's calf.

2. A compression apparatus as recited in claim 1, wherein the first portion is configured for disposal about a first part of the limb and the second portion is configured for disposal about a second part of the limb.

3. A. compression apparatus as recited in claim 1, wherein the second expandable chamber is disposed with the second portion for disposal about a second part of the limb and the third expandable chamber is disposed with the second portion for disposal about a third part of the limb.

4. A compression apparatus as recited in claim 1, wherein the first expandable chamber defines at least one sub-chamber.

5. A compression apparatus as recited in claim 4, wherein the second expandable chamber defines at least one sub-chamber.

6. A compression apparatus as recited in claim 5, wherein the third expandable chamber defines at least one sub-chamber.

7. A compression apparatus as recited in claim 1, wherein the sleeve defines at least one ventilation opening.

8. A compression apparatus as recited in claim 7, wherein the at least one opening includes openings formed in a surface of the expandable chambers. 2134654-1 :bab:KLJ:KEH RECEIVED at IPONZ on 22 January 2010 548557 14

9. A compression apparatus as recited in claim 7, wherein the at least one opening includes a slit disposed between the second expandable chamber and the third expandable chamber.

10. A compression apparatus as recited in claim 1, wherein the connector communicates with the chambers via a tubular pathway.

11. A compression apparatus as recited in claim 10, wherein the tubular pathway of the first expandable chamber is removable from the connector.

12. A compression apparatus as recited in claim 1, wherein a pressurized fluid is delivered to the chambers for expansion thereof in a sequential time interval such that the first expandable chamber is expanded for 2.5 seconds, then the second expandable chamber is expanded for 3.0 seconds and then the third expandable chamber is expanded for 5.5 seconds.

13. A compression apparatus as recited in claim 1, wherein the chambers are simultaneously contracted.

14. A compression apparatus as recited in claim 1, further comprising first tubing extending from the connector and fluidly connecting to the first expandable chamber, second tubing extending from the connector and fluidly connecting to the second expandable chamber, third tubing extending from the connector and fluidly connecting to the third expandable chamber, said first tubing comprising a quick disconnect port permitting easy removal of the first tubing from the connector when the first portion of the sleeve is removed from the second portion of the sleeve, said second tubing and said third tubing remaining attached to the connector when the first portion of the sleeve is removed from the second portion of the sleeve.

15. A compression apparatus comprising: a sleeve configured to wrap about a leg, the sleeve including a thigh portion defining a first inflatable chamber having sub-chambers, the sleeve further including a calf portion defining a second inflatable chamber having sub-chambers and an ankle portion defining a third inflatable chamber having sub-chambers, 2134654-1:bab:KLJ:KEH RECEIVED at IPONZ on 22 January 2010 548557 15 the calf portion of the sleeve including a valve connector for fluidly connecting both a pressurized fluid source to the chambers via a tubular pathway, the pressurized fluid is delivered from said pressurized fluid source to said chambers to carry out vascular therapy, said tubular pathway comprising first tubing extending from the valve connector and fluidly connecting to the first expandable chamber, second tubing extending from the valve connector and fluidly connecting to the second expandable chamber, and third tubing extending from the valve connector and fluid connecting to the third expandable chamber, the thigh portion of the sleeve being removably connected to the calf portion of the sleeve via perforations in the sleeve extending continuously across the sleeve, said first and second portions of the sleeve being located on opposite sides of the perforations whereby the sleeve may be torn along the perforations to completely remove the thigh portion from the calf portion, and the first tubing of the tubular pathway being removable from the valve connector when the thigh portion is removed from the calf portion, and the second tubing and third tubing remaining attached to the valve connector when the thigh portion is removed from the calf portion.

16. A compression apparatus as recited in claim 15, wherein the sleeve further includes a ventilation slit disposed between the second inflatable chamber and the third inflatable chamber.

17. A compression apparatus as recited in claim 15, wherein a pressurized fluid is delivered to the chambers such that the first inflatable chamber is inflated for 2.5 seconds, then the second inflatable chamber is inflated for 3.0 seconds, then the third inflatable chamber is inflated for 5.5 seconds and then the chambers are deflated simultaneously.

18. A compression apparatus comprising: an expandable sleeve configured for disposal about a leg, said sleeve having boundary edges, the sleeve having a length which in use extends below a knee of the leg to above the knee of the leg, wherein the sleeve in use is convertible from the length extending from below the knee to above the knee, to a length extending solely below the knee by tearing a thigh portion of the sleeve completely from a calf portion of the sleeve along perforations in the sleeve extending continuously across the sleeve from adjacent one boundary edge of the sleeve to adjacent an opposite boundary edge of the sleeve. 2134654-1 :bab:KLJ:KEH RECEIVED at IPONZ on 22 January 2010 548557 16

19, A compression apparatus comprising: a sleeve configured for disposal about a member, the sleeve including a first portion defining a first expandable chamber and a second portion defining a second expandable chamber and a third expandable chamber, the second portion including a connector for fluidly connecting a pressurized fluid source to the first expandable chamber, the second expandable chamber and the third expandable chamber, the fluid is delivered from said pressurized fluid source to said chambers to carry out vascular therapy, perforations in the sleeve extending continuously across the sleeve, said first and second portions of the sleeve being located on opposite sides of the perforations, the sleeve is torn along the perforations to completely remove the first portion of the sleeve from the second portion of the sleeve, first tubing extending from the connector and fluidly connecting to the first expandable chamber, second tubing extending from the connector and fluidly connecting to the second expandable chamber, third tubing extending from the connector and fluidly connecting to the third expandable chamber, said first tubing comprising a quick disconnect port communicating with a fluid port in said connector permitting easy removal of the first tubing from the connector when the first portion of the sleeve is completely removed from the second portion of the sleeve, said second tubing and said third tubing remaining attached to the connector when the first portion of the sleeve is removed from the second portion of the sleeve to completely remove a portion of the sleeve extending above a first part.

20. A compression apparatus substantially as hereinbefore described with reference to the accompanying drawings. Tyco Healthcare Group LP By the Attorneys for the Applicant SPRUSON & FERGUSON 2134654-1 :bab:KLJ:KEH </div>