WO2012120308A2

WO2012120308A2 - Receptacle for and treatment of an end portion of a limb

Info

Publication number: WO2012120308A2
Application number: PCT/GB2012/050521
Authority: WO
Inventors: Thomas Robert Etienne Pellereau; Christopher Huw Douglas MALLET
Original assignee: Biomimetics Health Industries Limited
Priority date: 2011-03-09
Filing date: 2012-03-08
Publication date: 2012-09-13
Also published as: WO2012120308A3; GB2488989A; GB201104031D0

Abstract

A receptacle for receipt of an end portion of a limb and a therapeutic liquid. The receptacle defines a liquid-tight region for containing a therapeutic liquid, and includes a bottom support frame (16). The receptacle is collapsible and expandable for receipt of the therapeutic liquid. In particular, the bottom support frame is expandable to provide a stable support for the receptacle such that the receptacle can be free-standing when at least partially filled with the therapeutic liquid. The receptacle is preferable boot shaped.

Description

RECEPTACLE FOR AND TREATMENT OF AN END PORTION OF A LIMB

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The invention relates to a receptacle and apparatus for treatment of an end portion of a limb. The invention also relates to a method of treatment of an end portion of a limb.

BACKGROUND

Skin damage or wounds, for example cuts, abrasions, lesions, burns including flash burns and ulcers, are common problems. Infection of such damaged skin or wounds may occur. In particular, leg ulceration is a common problem. The most common type of leg ulcer is a venous leg ulcer, accounting for a high proportion of cases. The amount of money spent on care of patients with leg ulceration is high.

Treatment of leg ulcers usually involves cleaning and dressing the wound and using compression bandages to control the blood pressure inside the legs. Unless underlying risk factors such as immobility, obesity and varicose veins are addressed, there is a high risk of a venous leg ulcer recurring. There is a general need for effective means for treatment of leg ulcers to assist healing and prevent recurrence of infection. A known document, GB2465866, discloses a limb bath having a frame releasably holding a disposable bag. There are various drawbacks to this limb bath. The limb bath is bulky. Thus it is difficult to move around and disadvantageously takes up space. It would be awkward to fill the limb bath with cleansing agent. Several frames would be needed in a hospital for simultaneous treatments since a frame is required for each treatment, with associated cost and problem of storage. Splash may also inconveniently occur. Large volumes of liquid can also be difficult to handle.

It is an object of the present invention to address at least some of these drawbacks. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

According to an aspect of the present invention, there is provided a receptacle for treatment of an end portion of a limb, the receptacle being for receipt of an end portion of a limb and a therapeutic liquid, the receptacle defining a liquid-tight region for containing a therapeutic liquid, and including a bottom support frame, wherein the receptacle is collapsible and expandable for receipt of the therapeutic liquid, the bottom support frame being expandable to provide a stable support for the receptacle such that the receptacle can be free-standing when at least partially filled with the therapeutic liquid. The receptacle may be formed at least in part of flexible sheet material, the sheet material being joined at seams so as to form the liquid-tight region and the bottom support frame. The sheet material defining the liquid-tight region may be formed of sides formed of pieces of sheet material and a base piece. The pieces forming the sides may extend to form the bottom support frame. The bottom support frame may extend substantially around the circumference of the base piece. The bottom support frame may be shaped so that a rear surface of the receptacle is backwardly sloped.

The receptacle may further comprise means enabling a person to see when the receptacle is filled with a predetermined volume of the therapeutic liquid, for example a transparent portion. Additionally or alternatively, the receptacle may comprise a hold in the bottom support frame to facilitate tipping of the therapeutic liquid.

Conveniently, the receptacle may comprise tightening means for tightening the material of the receptacle at an upper part thereof around the end portion of the limb so as to prevent egress of liquid. The receptacle may further comprise means for cushioning, located partially or wholly around an interior surface of the receptacle at an upper part thereof concentrically with and inside of the tightening means to impede or prevent injury or soreness to the end portion of the limb from the tightening means. The receptacle may comprise adhering means extending partially or wholly circumferentially around an interior surface of the receptacle at an upper part thereof to adhere the material of the receptacle to the end portion of the limb.

The receptacle may further comprise at least one rib projecting from an interior surface of the receptacle at an upper part thereof positioned so as impede egress of the therapeutic liquid from the receptacle when the material of the receptacle is tightened against and/or adhered to an end portion of a limb.

The receptacle may further comprise means, extending partially or wholly circumferentially around an interior surface of the receptacle at an upper part thereof, for at least partially drying the end portion of the limb when removing the end portion from the receptacle. There may be provided a receptacle, as described above, and a pocket, wherein the receptacle and the pocket are formed of at least one piece of flexible sheet material joined at seams to define the liquid-tight region for containing the therapeutic fluid and a containment region of the pocket. A one of the seams separates the liquid-tight region for containing therapeutic fluid and the containment region.

There may be provided apparatus comprising the receptacle described above. The apparatus may comprise means for circulating therapeutic liquid including an inlet tube for supply of the therapeutic liquid to the liquid-tight region and an outlet tube for exit of the therapeutic fluid. The inlet and outlet tubes may extend through respective apertures in the receptacle. Alternatively or additionally, the apparatus may comprise bubbling means for causing movement of the therapeutic liquid in the receptacle. Alternatively or additionally, the apparatus may comprise vibration means located such that vibration of the vibration means causes movement of the therapeutic liquid in the receptacle.

According to another aspect of the present invention, there may be provided apparatus comprising a receptacle for receipt of an end portion of a limb and a therapeutic medium, and means, extending at least partially circumferentially around an interior surface of an open end of the receptacle, for drying the end portion on removing of the end portion of the limb from the receptacle. The apparatus may further comprise tightening means for locating material of the receptacle at an upper part thereof against the end portion of the limb to impede or prevent egress of therapeutic liquid. Preferably, the material of the receptacle, when located against the end portion of the limb, forms a barrier for preventing or impeding wetting of the drying means. In this case, the therapeutic liquid is located on a one side of the barrier and the drying means is located on another side of said barrier.

The apparatus may further comprise at least one of: adhering means extending partially or wholly circumferentially around an interior surface of the receptacle at an upper part thereof to adhere the material of the receptacle to the end portion of the limb; at least one rib projecting from an interior surface of the receptacle at an upper part thereof to assist in preventing egress of the therapeutic liquid from the receptacle when the material of the receptacle is tightened against and/or adhered to an end portion of a limb. The apparatus may further comprise non-absorbent compressible/cushioning material extending partially or wholly circumferentially around an interior surface of the receptacle at an upper part thereof, wherein the non-absorbent compressible material is located adjacent the barrier between the barrier and a region for containing therapeutic liquid. Preferably, the receptacle may comprise at least one flexible piece of sheet material, wherein the receptacle is collapsible when empty to be substantially flat and is expandable for receipt of the therapeutic liquid.

According to another aspect of the present invention, there is provided apparatus comprising a receptacle for receipt of an end portion of a limb and a therapeutic liquid, and at least one pocket, wherein the receptacle and the pocket are formed of at least one piece of flexible sheet material having seams to define respective containment regions, wherein a one of the seams separates the containment regions. According to yet another aspect of the present invention, there is provided apparatus comprising a receptacle for receipt of an end portion of a limb, and a therapeutic agent having a solubility in an aqueous solution, wherein the therapeutic agent is located inside said receptacle, and an end of the receptacle is sealed, the end being openable to enable at least partial filling with the aqueous solution to form a therapeutic liquid suitable for treatment.

There may be provided a kit comprising an above described receptacle or apparatus as described above comprising a receptacle, and a therapeutic agent, located in the receptacle, having solubility in an aqueous solution. The agent may be packaged in packaging having solubility in the aqueous solution. The packaging may be affixed to an interior surface of the receptacle. The end of the receptacle through which an end portion of a limb can be inserted may be sealed and be openable for use. The kit may further comprise at least one of: a compression bandage for use after treatment of a portion of a limb; drying material for drying of the end portion of the limb; and a hand sanitizer. According to another aspect of the invention, there is provided a method of treatment of an end portion of a limb with a therapeutic liquid, comprising partially filling a receptacle with a therapeutic liquid, standing the receptacle on a substantially horizontal surface with the therapeutic liquid medium therein such that the receptacle is free-standing, and inserting an end portion of a limb into the receptacle so as to bath the end portion of the limb in the therapeutic liquid. Additionally, the method may comprise affixing material of the receptacle near an open end thereof against a part of the end portion of the limb to impede or prevent egress of therapeutic liquid from the receptacle. The receptacle may be a receptacle as hereinbefore described. In particular, the receptacle may be boot-shaped.

According to another aspect of the invention, there is further provided a method of treatment of an end portion of a limb with a therapeutic liquid in a receptacle, the receptacle including absorbent material extending at least partially circumferentially around an interior surface of an open end of the receptacle, the method comprising inserting the end portion of a limb in a receptacle and bathing the end portion therein with a therapeutic liquid medium, and drying the end portion of the limb on withdrawing of the end portion from the receptacle on the absorbent material. The receptacle may be a receptacle as hereinbefore described.

According to another aspect of the invention, there is further provided a method of preparing a receptacle suitable for treating an end portion of a limb, comprising providing a boot- shaped receptacle, partially filling the boot-shaped receptacle with a therapeutic liquid, and standing the receptacle on a substantially horizontal surface with the therapeutic liquid therein such that the receptacle is free-standing and such that the receptacle is capable of receiving an end portion of a limb. The receptacle may be a receptacle as hereinbefore described.

According to yet another aspect of the invention, there is yet further provided apparatus for treatment of an end portion of a limb, comprising a receptacle for receipt of a therapeutic liquid and bubbling or vibration means for causing movement or agitation of the therapeutic liquid in the receptacle.

According to another aspect of the invention, there is yet further provided a device or dressing or patch for mounting on a body surface to enclose a treatment area, comprising a cover, adhering means for adhering the cover to the body surface, extending circumferentially around a surface portion of the cover so that, when adhered to the body surface, a cavity is formed between the surface portion and the body surface, and at least one of: barrier means on the surface portion for impeding leakage of therapeutic liquid from within the cavity; and absorbent means, extending between the cover and the body surface, partially or wholly circumferentially around the outside of the adhering means, for absorbing therapeutic liquid. The device, dressing or patch advantageously allows therapeutic liquid to be held against damaged skin or a wound, for example against a chest, and prevents or impedes leakage of the liquid. Also, advantageously external pressure may not need to be applied to the device to keep the device in place and prevent leakage.

Although each aspect and various features of embodiments may be defined herein independently or in combination with other aspects or features, it will be appreciated that, where appropriate, each aspect can be used in any combination with any other aspect(s) or feature(s) of the embodiments.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF FIGURES

For better understanding, embodiments of the invention will now be described by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

Figure 1A is a perspective side view of a receptacle for treatment of a portion of the leg in accordance with an embodiment of the invention;

Figure IB is a perspective front view of the receptacle of Figure 1;

Figure 1C is a perspective view of the base region of the receptacle of Figures 1A and

IB;

Figure ID is a side view of the receptacle of Figure 1 when the receptacle is collapsed;

Figure IE is a perspective view of the receptacle of Figure indicating a possible arrangement of an opening of the receptacle;

Figures 2A to 2D are side views of different examples of a variant of the receptacle of Figures 1A to ID;

Figure 3 A is a side view of an example of a variant of the receptacle of Figures 1A to

ID;

Figure 3B is a side view of an example of another variant of the receptacle of Figures 1A to ID with a scale for measuring the size of a wound;

Figure 4A is a side view of another embodiment of the invention, wherein the receptacle includes a pocket;

Figure 4B is a side view is an example of a variant of the embodiment of Figure 4A;

Figures 5A is a side view of an embodiment of the receptacle, when collapsed, having an adhesive portion on an interior surface at an open end thereof; Figure 5B is a perspective view of the receptacle of Figure 5 A, when the receptacle is partially expanded;

Figures 6A is a side view of an embodiment of the receptacle, when collapsed, having a plurality of ribs on an interior surface at an open end thereof;

Figure 6B is a perspective view of the receptacle of Figure 6A, when the receptacle is partially expanded;

Figure 7A is a side view of an embodiment of the receptacle, when collapsed, having material on an interior surface at an open end thereof, in which the material can take a number of forms;

Figure 7B is a perspective view of the receptacle of Figure 7A, when the receptacle is partially expanded;

Figure 8 is a side view of an embodiment of the receptacle, when collapsed, having at an open ended thereof on an interior surface material like in Figures 7A and 7B, ribs like in Figures 6A and 6B and adhesive like in Figures 5A and 5B;

Figure 9A is a perspective side view of a receptacle in accordance with an embodiment, when partially expanded, wherein the receptacle includes tightening means extending around the outside of the receptacle near an open end;

Figure 9B is a perspective front view of the receptacle of Figure 9A;

Figure 10 is a perspective view of a receptacle in accordance with another embodiment, when partially expanded, wherein the receptacle includes another form of tightening means;

Figure 11A is a perspective view of a receptacle according to an embodiment, when collapsed and folded;

Figure 1 IB is a perspective view of the receptacle of Figure 11A when unfolded; Figure 12 is a view of a receptacle in accordance with an embodiment during disposal of a therapeutic liquid contained therein;

Figures 13 and 14 show examples of different shapes that the receptacle may take;

Figure 15 is a schematic view of a receptacle in accordance with an embodiment including a tube allowing provision of therapeutic liquid;

Figure 16 is a perspective side view of the receptacle of Figure 15;

Figures 17 to 20 are each a perspective side view of an example of a receptacle in accordance with an embodiment including tubing enabling circulation of therapeutic liquid, wherein in each example the tubing is differently located; Figure 21 is a schematic view of a receptacle in accordance with an embodiment, including a bubbling system;

Figures 22 to 24 are each a perspective view of an example of a receptacle in accordance with an embodiment including a vibration unit, wherein each example the vibration unit is differently located;

Figure 25A is a perspective view of a first side of a receptacle in accordance with an embodiment;

Figure 25B is a perspective view of a second side of the receptacle of Figure 25 A;

Figure 26A is a perspective view of a receptacle in accordance with another embodiment of the invention;

Figure 26B is another view of the receptacle of figure 26A;

Figure 27 is side views of different shapes that the receptacle can take;

Figures 28 to 32 are each an illustrative plan view of an example of a patch in accordance with another embodiment of the invention;

Figures 33A to 33E show illustratively further examples of the patch;

Figures 34 and 35A are each also a plan view of an example of a patch, which includes a pair of apertures or valves to allow insertion of inlet and outlet tubes;

Figure 35B is a plan view of the patch of figure 35A, with an inlet tube and outlet tube inserted; and

Figures 36 to 38 are views of parts of the limbs having patches thereon wherein each case a tip of a syringe extends through an aperture in the patch.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS

Like parts are denoted by like reference numerals throughout.

Certain terminology will be used in the following description for convenience and reference only, and is not limiting. For example, a boot-shaped receptacle has a conventional orientation and the words "front", "rear", "side", "bottom", "top", "right", "left", "upper" and "lower" are to be construed in view of that orientation. The words "inwardly" and "outwardly" refer to directions towards and away from, respectively, the geometric centre of the receptacle or relevant part thereof. The term "liquid" is to be construed as "flowable material"; for example a gel is included within scope of this term. Referring to Figures 1A to ID, the receptacle is for the treatment of ulcers, lesions, wounds or the like, on an end portion of a leg with a therapeutic liquid. The receptacle is boot-shaped for insertion of a foot and a part of the lower leg extending from the foot. The receptacle is formed of two side pieces 4, 6 and a base piece 8 of flexible sheet material. The side pieces 4, 6 respectively joined at liquid-tight side seams 10, 12 or joins at respective front and rear edges of the side pieces. The base piece 8 bridges the side pieces 4, 6 at the bottom of the receptacle and is joined to the side pieces 4, 6 at base seams 14 or joins so that the sides 4, 6 and the base piece 8 form a liquid-tight region for receipt of a therapeutic liquid. To provide sufficient structural support to enable the receptacle to be freestanding when the receptacle is at least partially filled, portions of the side pieces 4, 6 extend downwardly beyond the base seams 14 to form a bottom support frame 16. The bottom support frame 16 has an edge that contacts a substantially horizontal surface on which the partially filled receptacle can stand freely. The edge defines a support frame plane. The bottom support frame 16 extends substantially around the circumference of the base piece 8.

In an embodiment, the bottom support frame 16 may be formed, wholly or in part, of seams joining i) the portions of the side pieces 4, 6 that extend below a bottom surface, provided by the base piece 8, of the region for containing therapeutic liquid, and ii) those portions of the side pieces 4, 6 and a flange portion of the base piece 8 extending circumferentially around and downwardly from the bottom surface.

The receptacle is collapsible into a substantially flat form and expandable for receipt of the therapeutic liquid. The bottom support frame 16 is expandable to provide a stable support for the receptacle such that the receptacle can be free-standing when at least partially filled with the therapeutic liquid.

The base piece 8 has a least one fold therein when the receptacle is collapsed. Preferably, but not essentially, a portion of the base piece 8 contacts a substantially horizontal surface on which the partially filled receptacle can stand, thereby allowing transmission of some of the weight of the therapeutic liquid to the horizontal surface.

The sheet material can be formed of a foil or a plastic layer or a laminate comprising a foil and/or at least one plastic layer. Preferably the foil is metal, for example aluminium. Preferably the foil has thickness of greater than 0.5 μηι, preferably still greater than 1 μη , preferably still greater than 5 μηι, and yet preferably still greater than 10 μηι. Preferably the foil has a thickness less than 250 μηι, preferably less than 200 μηι, preferably still less than 150 μηι, preferably still less than 100 μη , preferably still less than 50 μηι, and preferably still less than 20 μηι.

Each piece of sheet material may be formed from more than one smaller pieces. The sheet material may include a layer of plastics material. Suitable plastics materials include polyolefms, PVC (polyvinyl chloride), PVDC (polyvinylidene chloride), LLDPE (linear low- density polyethylene), LDPE (low-density polyethylene) and/or PET (polyethylene terephthalate). Preferably the sheet material has, other than where a rib is, thickness of greater than 0.5 μηι or 1 μηι or 10 μιη. Preferably the sheet material has a thickness less than 500 μηι, preferably less than 250 μηι, preferably still less than 200 μηι, preferably still less than 150 μιη, yet preferably still less than 100 μηι and yet preferably still less than 50 μιτι.

The disclosure of alternative values for the upper or lower limit of the permitted thickness of the foil or the sheet material, coupled with an indication that one of said values is more highly preferred than the other, is to be construed as an implied statement that each intermediate value (although not explicitly stated ) of said thickness, lying between the more preferred and the less preferred of said alternatives, is itself preferred to said less preferred value and also to each value lying between said less preferred value and said intermediate value.

Methods of manufacture of containers from sheet material are known to persons skilled in the art. For example, the sheet material can be cut to size through the use of a suitable die. Pieces of sheet material can be sealingly joining by a heat sealing operation.

The therapeutic liquid can be prepared externally to the receptacle and poured in, or prepared in the receptacle. The therapeutic liquid can conveniently be prepared from a dry therapeutic agent, the quantity of the dry therapeutic agent being selected so that upon dissolution in a suitable aqueous medium, a solution of the therapeutic liquid at a therapeutic concentration is formed. Alternatively, the therapeutic liquid can conveniently be prepared from a concentrate. The therapeutic liquid is preferably a hypochlorous acid (HOC1) solution at a skin neutral pH, which is particularly effective at disinfecting wounds and aiding the healing process by preventing the sloughing of dead flesh. The quantity of liquid used for dissolution should be no more than the free volume within the receptacle after insertion of a patient's leg portion. While the receptacle is intended for receipt of a therapeutic liquid, its use is not limited to containing liquids that have therapeutic effect. Referring to Figure IE, in a particular example of the receptacle of Figures 1A to ID, an opening is arranged to facilitate inserting of an end portion of a limb, in this case the leg. The seam 10 extends only to join the sides to a predetermined height, indicated at X. Above this height, the sides 4, 6 may be pulled apart. Preferably, the border 15a, 15b of one or both of the sides 4, 6 has an adhesive layer on it, preferably covered by a layer of release paper, so that the borders 15a, 15b can be affixed thereby to prevent splash or leakage. The adhesive layer is preferably a water resistant adhesive.

Preferably the adhesive is conveniently provided in an arrangement with the adhesive means described below for sealing the receptacle around an end portion of a limb. Thus, in use, the receptacle is slipped on and then sealed.

A variant embodiment to that of Figure 1 has the bottom support frame 16 shaped so that a portion of the bottom support frame contacts a substantially horizontal surface on which the receptacle can be free-standing when at least partially filled with the therapeutic liquid, so that a plane of or plane tangential to a rear surface 18 of the receptacle meets the support frame plane at an obtuse angle. In other words, the bottom support frame 16 is shaped so that the rear surface is backwardly inclined or backwardly sloped. Referring to Figures 2A to 2D, examples of this variant embodiment of the receptacle have bottom support frames shaped accordingly. The obtuse angle is such that the centre of mass of the receptacle with therapeutic liquid therein is such that the receptacle does not topple. The obtuse angle is preferably greater than 95 degrees, preferably still greater than 90 degrees. The obtuse angle is preferably less than 130 degrees, preferably still less than 120 degrees.

In another variant embodiment, the receptacle includes means enabling a person to see when the receptacle is filled with a predetermined volume of the therapeutic liquid. In an example of Figure 3A, the right side 4 is formed of a sheet of transparent plastics material. The plastics material has a volume scale 20 thereon so that a person can accurately measure the volume of therapeutic liquid added to the receptacle. This facilitates dilution of an agent (for example a powder, crystals or a concentrate) to an appropriate concentration for treatment. It may also allow the user to see how much therapeutic liquid is in the receptacle. Furthermore, the scale may have markers to show how much liquid to add dependent upon the patient's foot size or an estimate of limb size. For example, the markers might indicate the amount of fluid that should be added for a "large", "medium" or "small" end portion of a limb. Additionally or alternatively, a kit may include a measuring device to enable a user's leg or foot to be measured thus ensuring a correct volume of therapeutic fluid is added. Thus the receptacle can be filled sufficiently for immersion of the desired limb portion, but not such that that the receptacle is excessively full or overflows. In one embodiment, the scale 20 may serve the function of a volume indicator and additionally include means for measuring limb portion size (e.g. foot size). In another example instead of the scale, only a marker is present.

In another example, only a portion of a side is formed of transparent material. In this case a person can understand that the required volume of therapeutic liquid is present simply by the fact that the volume has reached this portion.

The transparent portion, which may appear on one or more sides of the receptacle, may also allow a user or observer to see and monitor the wound whilst the receptacle is on. The scale 20, or a circular equivalent illustrated in Figure 3B, may have marking allowing measurement when the receptacle is empty of the size of a wound to enable, based on the measurement, a therapeutic liquid having an appropriate strength to be provided, or so that an appropriate type of therapeutic liquid to be used can be selected. For example a large wound would benefit from a higher ppm of HOC1 than a smaller wound, hence measuring the wound size before may be beneficial. In any of the embodiments or variant embodiments, a hold (not shown) may be present in the bottom support frame 16 to facilitate tipping of the therapeutic liquid.

Turning to Figures 4A and 4B, in addition to the receptacle, in an embodiment there is provided a pocket. The pocket 22 is also formed of flexible sheet material joined at seams to define a containment region defined by the pocket. A one of the seams separates the liquid- tight region for containing therapeutic fluid and a containment region defined by the sides of the pocket. Such a pocket is conveniently manufactured. The pocket may be used to hold useful items such as cloth suitable for drying the skin after treatment. In Figure 5A, the receptacle includes at least one adhering layer or band 24 extending circumferentially around an interior surface of the receptacle near the opening of the receptacle to adhere the material of the receptacle to the end portion of the limb. Preferably, the receptacle is provided with release paper (not shown) on the adhering layer 24, which is removable before or after, preferably after, the therapeutic liquid has been added to the receptacle. The adhering of the receptacle at the upper part to the leg portion advantageously prevents or impede splash. The receptacle may include multiple spaced bands of adhesive layer, each band extending circumferentially to ensure a good hold and prevent the therapeutic liquid from spilling. In Figure 5A the receptacle is in a collapsed form. In Figure 5B the receptacle is partially expanded and the adhesive layer can be seen.

The adhesive may have any one of a number of possible adhesive strengths, for example the adhesive can be a strong or a permanent adhesive, a semi-permanent adhesive, a temporary adhesive or simply a tacky surface which when a force is applied holds in place. The adhesive may be water resistant and mounted on a foam, preferably a closed cell foam, which is in turn mounted on the receptacle. The adhesive means may be a hypoallergenic adhesive kind and is preferably such that the receptacle can be easily removed without damaging the skin. In Figure 6A, in which the receptacle is again in a collapsed form, the receptacle includes one or more adhesive layers 24 and also a plurality of ribs 26 which project from an interior surface of the receptacle near the opening of the receptacle. The ribs extend circumferentially around an interior surface of the receptacle. The ribs 26 function to impede or prevent escape of therapeutic liquid. In particular, at least one rib is preferably arranged to partially shield the adhesive layer from the therapeutic liquid. The ribs may be made from the sheet material through a form of embossing, or folding; alternatively they may be separate and affixed to the inside surface of one or both sides 4, 6. The ribs 26 made be made from rubber, plastic or foam or other suitable material. The ribs may be soft or firm and may have a sticky, tacky or adhesive surface. In Figure 6B the receptacle is partially expanded.

In Figure 7A, in which the receptacle is again in a collapsed form, the receptacle includes a cushioning layer or drying layer 28 extending circumferentially around an interior surface of the receptacle near the opening. The cushioning layer 28 is optionally in the form of closed cell foam or soft material. The drying layer 28 may also be made from absorbent material which can be used to dry the limb as it is removed from the receptacle. This action will prevent therapeutic liquid from spilling onto surrounding surfaces. The absorbent material may be pre-sterilised. The absorbent material may be made from cellulose tissue, polypropylene, cotton wool or any similar material. This absorbent material may prevent leakage or spillage of the therapeutic liquid during use. The cushioning layer 28 functions to make contact with the receptacle more comfortable for patients. In another embodiment, the adhesive means is located on of the cushioning layer.

The adhesive layer 24, the ribs 26 and the cushioning layer 28 described in relation to Figures 5A, 5B, 6A, 6B, 7A and 7B may each be provided on the receptacle alone or in any permutation and in any order. The adhesive layer or band may be at the bottom or top with the ribs above or below and the absorbent material also above or below. In a preferred embodiment there is a layer of ribs at the bottom, with a layer of adhesive about and a large layer of absorbent material above this. There may also be one or more of each layer in combination, to thus ensure comfort, a good seal during use, easy removal of the limb, minimise dripping of the therapeutic liquid and easy disposal of the solution. The layers may extend circumferentially the entire way around the inside of the receptacle or only partially. For example to pour the therapeutic liquid out of the receptacle it may be beneficial for the absorbent material not to extend the entire circumference. The adhesive layer may be located concentrically with the cushioning layer 28, the adhesive layer 24 being located interiorly of the cushioning or absorbent layer 28. In the exemplary receptacle of Figure 8, the adhesive layer 24, the ribs 26 and the cushioning layer 28 are all present.

The receptacle optionally includes a tightening means, for example in the form of a strap or cord for tightening the material of the receptacle near the open end of the receptacle around the end portion of the limb. Turning to Figures 9A and 9B, a strap 30 is shown extending circumferentially around the outside of the receptacle near the open end. Alternatively or additionally, the tightening means may take the form of one or more adhesive labels, for example, the two labels 32 present in the embodiment of Figure 10. The flexible sheet material of the sides 4, 6 is folded so that the material of the receptacle is tight around the limb portion and then affixed in place with the one of more adhesive labels. The tightening means causes material of the receptacle to be held against a part of the end portion of the limb to impede or prevent egress of therapeutic liquid from the receptacle. Preferably, the tightening means is used in combination with one or more of the adhesive layer 24, the ribs 26 and the cushioning layer 28 described in relation to Figures 5A, 5B, 6A, 6B, 7A and 7B, to better impede or prevent leakage. Preferably, the combination is such as to allow a patient to move the limb portion, for example so that it is elevated, without leakage.

In Figures 11A and 1 IB a way of packaging the receptacle is shown, wherein, in Figure 11A the collapsed receptacle is folded and, in Figure 1 IB, the collapsed receptacle is unfolded and the fold line is indicated by a dashed line 34. The receptacle may be folded one or more times and/or rolled. Preferably, any one of the embodiments or variant embodiments described above may be packaged in this way.

In use, the receptacle can be used to treat an end portion of a limb with the therapeutic liquid. The receptacle may be partially filled with the therapeutic liquid and then stood on a substantially horizontal surface with the therapeutic liquid medium therein such that the receptacle is free-standing. It may be necessary to fill the receptacle with a predetermined minimum amount of liquid. Alternatively, the receptacle may be stood on the substantially horizontal surface first and then partially filled. Preferably a therapeutic agent having solubility in water is located in the receptacle, and then water is added.

An end portion of a limb is then inserted into the receptacle so that the end portion is immersed in the therapeutic liquid. Thus the end portion of the limb is bathed in the therapeutic liquid. The end portion of the limb is then removed from the receptacle. The therapeutic liquid is then disposed of, as illustrated in Figure 12. The receptacle is preferably also disposed of. The limb of the patient is then dried and a compression bandage is applied by a carer. The limb may be partially or completely dried by the applying it to the absorbent material 28 as it is withdrawn from the receptacle.

In Figures 13 and 14 receptacles shown have a bottom support frame 16 like others described above, but are of different shape. It will be understood that, while desirable for the receptacle to be boot-shaped for bathing of an end portion of a leg, it is not essential. The receptacle can optionally be provided as part of the kit. The kit can include an agent, located in the receptacle, which has solubility in an aqueous solution and which on dissolution becomes the therapeutic liquid. Thus the therapeutic agent can conveniently be provided for easy use.

The therapeutic agent is optionally packaged in packaging having solubility in the aqueous solution. Thus when water is poured into the receptacle, the packaging dissolves to release the therapeutic agent. The packaging is optionally affixed to an interior surface of the receptacle. This prevents it falling out.

The end of the receptacle through which an end portion of a limb can be inserted can optionally be sealed and opened prior to use. This also stops the therapeutic agent falling out (packaged or otherwise). It may also stop contamination entering the receptacle. For example, the inside of the receptacle may come pre-sterilised.

The kit can also include one or more of: a compression bandage for use after treatment of a portion of a limb; an absorbent material for drying of the end portion of the limb; a hand sanitizer for use by the person handling the compression bandage; a foldable waterproof mat or tray, which the receptacle can be mounted on to prevent damage to an underlying surface; test strips to measure the strength of the therapeutic liquid including Free or Total chlorine test strips; a syringe; a measuring device; a filter; and a mixing device In an embodiment, a tube extends into the receptacle. Referring to the example of Figures 15 and 16, the tube 34 extends into the receptacle through the open end and follows the shape of the front of the receptacle to substantially the lowest point of the receptacle. Liquid is pumped in through the tube to prevent spillage. Alternatively or additionally, liquid may be removed from the interior of the receptacle by suction through the tube 34. In an alternative embodiment, air is pumped through the tube 34 when the receptacle is partially filled and a limb portion is in an inserted position to cause movement of the therapeutic liquid.

In another embodiment, a liquid circulation system is provided. Referring to the example of Figure 17, an inlet tube 36 and an outlet tube 38 extend through the opening of the receptacle. The therapeutic liquid is supplied through the inlet tube 36 and removed through the outlet tube 38.

In others examples illustrated in Figures 18, 19 and 20, the inlet tube 36 and the outlet tube 38 extend into the receptacle each through a respective aperture in the receptacle. As shown in these examples, the apertures may be located in different places. In a variant (not shown) the inlet 36 and the outlet tube 38 may be formed of a single piece of material, which would require only a single aperture in the receptacle. A seal is provided for each tube to prevent leakage. Additionally, the example of Figure 19 includes a tube 34 extending through the opening of the receptacle through which air is preferably pumped to cause movement of the therapeutic liquid. The tubes may also be used to apply different therapeutic liquids during use. For example the concentration of the therapeutic liquid could be changed by adding through one of the tubes a higher or lower concentration or the kind of liquid can be changed, for example to one including a substance causing pain relief. The tubes 38, 36 may be attached to an external device. The external device may apply and monitor air, liquid or therapeutic liquid during the process. The external device may also monitor time and thus automatically remove the liquid as required. This may reduce the need for a nurse or observer to be present during the process. To avoid contamination a peristaltic pump may be used in conjunction with the external device. Liquid may be added circulated from the top or bottom. The tubes may be of different diameters and larger or smaller than the scale in the figures of tubes 38, 36 suggests. The tubes may also have filters, especially to prevent passage of debris from a wound.

With reference to Figure 21, in another embodiment the tube 40 extends through the opening of the receptacle and is fixed to extend around the interior surface of the front of the receptacle and along the base piece 8. A portion of the tube 40 that extends along the base piece 8 has a plurality of apertures therein. These apertures are sized so that air pumped through the tube 40 bubbles through these apertures causing movement of the therapeutic liquid. Tube 40 may also be built into the material or surface of the receptacle.

In an embodiment of vibration unit 42 is provided. The vibration unit 42 may act to mix or agitate the liquid, reduce discomfort during use, be further configured to notify the user of time or create cavitation within the therapeutic liquid. The vibration unit can be located in one of a number of positions. In an example shown in Figure 22, the vibration unit 42 is located on the side 6 of the receptacle. In an example shown in Figure 23, the vibration unit 42 is also located on the side 6, but in a different position. In another example shown in Figure 24, the vibration unit is located underneath the base piece 8 in a cavity provided by the bottom support frame 16. The receptacle may include one or more vibration units at different locations. The vibration may be of any frequency and amplitude. For example the vibration may be strong and quick, low and fast or strong and slow. The frequency and amplitude may also vary during use. The vibration may pulse. The vibrations may indicate time potentially changing or pulsing to notify the user of certain timings durig use or that the process is now complete.

In the embodiments, the receptacle may have attached a stop watch or timer or a buzzer configurable to sound after a predetermined period. In the embodiments, the receptacle may have attached an audio device with pre-recorded instructions on use. It should be understood that the liquid circulation system, air bubbling arrangements and vibrating units described above need not be used only with a receptacle made of sheet material. They can be implemented in receptacles for receipt of an end portion of a limb, which are made of other materials and may be more rigid and non-collapsible, so as to cause movement of therapeutic liquid in the receptacle.

Many of the embodiments and variant embodiments described above are not limited to use with the end portion of a leg. The receptacle may be provided in different sizes for different end portions of limbs. Referring to Figure 25 A, the receptacle in this example is sized for use with a thumb. Similarly, an example of a receptacle for use with a finger is shown in Figure 26B. In each case, the receptacle includes a bottom support frame 16 which allows the receptacle to stand freely when partially or wholly filled with a therapeutic liquid. An adhesive label 44 functionally identical to the adhesive label mentioned above enables tightening of an opening end of the receptacle around the thumb or finger. A receptacle suitable for use with an end portion of an arm, that is a hand and forearm, is illustrated in Figure 26A. Again, an adhesive label 44 functionally identical to the adhesive label mentioned above enables tightening. Examples of different shapes that the receptacle can take are illustrated in Figure 27. Also, the receptacle can be frustum shaped, particularly when for use with a thumb.

Embodiments can be used to receive an end portion of a limb of an animal body. Receptacles may be shaped to correspond to the shape of such a limb. For example, the receptacles may be used in treatment of sheep, horses or cows.

The remaining figures relate to a patch, dressing or device (referred to as a "device") for enclosing a treatment area of the body, which is typically but not necessarily the human body. A therapeutic liquid, as described above, is supplied to a cavity formed between a surface portion of the device and the treatment area.

The device has an adhering means on one side thereof for adhering the cover to skin. The adhering means forms a closed loop to prevent egress of the therapeutic liquid from the cavity. The cover may be formed of liquid-tight flexible sheet material such as described above. Flexibility of the material facilitates a good seal on skin. The sheet material may be recessed, for example substantially dome shaped, to allow supply of a greater volume of therapeutic fluid within the cavity. Sheet material having at least one foil and/or at least one plastics layer is malleable at high temperature and can be recessed or stretched to have a recess in accordance with known techniques.

The adhesive may be water resistant and mounted on a foam, preferably a closed cell foam, which is in mounted on the cover. The adhesive means may be a hypoallergenic adhesive kind and is preferably such that the receptacle can be easily removed without damaging the skin.

The cover may be formed of a stretchable material. This allow more therapeutic material to be added between the surface portion of the device and the treatment area. The cover may be formed of resiliently stretchable material. The therapeutic liquid in the cavity can thereby be pressurised, so that the therapeutic liquid is pushed into an ulcer, lesion or wound.

A barrier may be concentrically inwardly located with respect to the adhering means and extend wholly around a treatment area for impeding egress of the therapeutic liquid and holding the therapeutic liquid in the vicinity of the treatment area. The barrier can be in the form of at least one rib protruding towards the skin from the cover. Alternatively, the barrier may be in the form of a foam for example a closed cell foam.

Additionally or alternatively, absorbent material, for example tissue, is located outwardly with respect to the adhering means. This allows absorption of leaked material, if any, and/or facilitates drying after removal of the device from the skin. The absorbent material preferably forms a loop extending concentrically around the outside of the loop of the adhesive means. Each device includes at least one means allowing insertion of a tube into the cavity. Preferably, the device includes a portion of self-sealing material through which the tube can be inserted and which will close on withdrawal of the tube. The tube allows supply of the therapeutic liquid to the cavity. Alternatively, at least one tube is inserted between the device and the skin. Alternatively, the device may include a valve, for example of rubber, to receive an end of a tube. The or each tube may be part of syringe for injecting therapeutic liquid.

The embodiments may include visual material in contact with the therapeutic liquid that changes colour in dependence on the Free or Total chlorine level or of the pH of the therapeutic liquid or on temperature of the therapeutic liquid.

In the example of Figure 28, the device includes the adhesive means 100 and the absorbent material 102 extending around the circumference of the adhesive means. The device also includes a self sealing valve portion 101.

In the example of Figure 29, the device includes the adhesive means 100 and the closed cell foam 104 extending in a closed loop concentrically inwardly of the adhesive means 100. The device also includes a self sealing valve portion 101.

In the example of Figure 30, the device includes the adhesive means 100 and the barrier 106 extending in a closed loop concentrically inwardly of the adhesive means 100. The device also includes a self sealing valve portion 101. In the example of Figure 31 , the device includes the adhesive means 100, the barrier 106 extending in a closed loop concentrically inwardly of the adhesive means 100, and the absorbent material 102 extending around the circumference of the adhesive means. In the example of Figure 32, the device includes the adhesive means 100 and the barrier 106. Rather than including a self-sealing valve, a plurality of tubes is inserted between the cover and the skin. The tube can be inserted in more than one location, as indicated. Alternatively one a single tube can be inserted. Figures 33 A to 33C each shows illustratively an example of the device from the underneath. In the example of Figure 33A, the device includes a hole 108 in the cover 110. The surface portion of the cover 110 is defined by a loop of the adhesive material 100. The height of the adhesive material 100 results in the formation of the cavity when the device is applied. The absorbent material 102 extends circumferentially around the outside of the loop of the adhesive material 100.

In the example of Figure 33C, the device is like the device in Figure 33A, except a plurality of ribs 112 is located extending around the interior of the loop of the adhesive material 100. In the example of Figure 33B, the device is like the device in Figure 33C, but a further loop of adhesive material 114 extends circumferentially around the outside of the absorbent material 102.

Figures 33D and 33E each shows illustratively a perspective side view of an example of the device. In both examples, the cover 110 is dome shaped with a hole located therein. In the example in Figure 33D, material located on the cover, as described above, functions to space the cover 110 from a treatment area, thereby to allow a greater volume of fluid to be present in the cavity. In the example of Figure 33D, such material is thin such that there is no significant spacing.

In the embodiment of Figure 34, which shows an alternative shape of the device, the device includes the adhesive means 100 and the barrier 106 extending in a closed loop concentrically inwardly of the adhesive means 100. The device includes two self-sealing valves in the cover, through one of which an inlet tube can be inserted and the other of which an outlet tube can be inserted. Therapeutic fluid can thus be circulated over the treatment area.

In the embodiment of Figure 35 A, the device includes the adhesive means 100 and the closed cell foam 104 extending in a closed loop concentrically inwardly of the adhesive means 100. The device includes two self-sealing values in the cover, through one of which an inlet tube or syringe can be inserted and the other of which an outlet tube can be inserted. Therapeutic fluid can thus be circulated over the treatment area. In Figure 35B, the tubes are shown inserted. The adhesive layer 100 may be mounted on foam and have varying levels or strengths of adhesive.

In use, the device is affixed over an area to be treated and the therapeutic liquid is supplied. Figure 36 illustrates this on an upper thigh portion. Figure 37 illustrates this on a different portion of the leg. Figure 38 illustrates this on a calf portion of the leg. Generally, the device can be affixed to any portion of the body. As can be understood, the therapeutic fluid can be supplied to the cavity formed by the device by the patient without need for carer assistance.

It will be appreciated by persons skilled in the art that various modifications are possible to the embodiments. The receptacle may include one or more holes to act as handles for carrying when containing therapeutic liquid. The device may include one or more holes to facilitate application. The receptacle or device may also be coloured or printed to improve aesthetics, or where there are several devices, to indicate to users which device should be used and optionally criteria for selection. For example colours could indicate different applications, wound sizes or limb sizes. Instructions could also be printed onto surface to ensure the device and the kit are used correctly.

The applicant hereby discloses in isolation each individual feature or step described herein and any combination of two or more such features or steps, to the extent that such features or steps or combinations are capable of being carried out based on the present specification as a whole in the light of the common general knowledge of a person skilled in the art, irrespective of whether such features or steps or combinations of features or steps solve any problems disclosed herein, and without limitation to the scope of the claims. The applicant indicates that aspects of the present invention may consist of any such individual feature or combination of features. In view of the foregoing description it will be evident to a person skilled in the art that various modifications may be made within the scope of the invention.

Claims

1. A boot-shaped receptacle for treatment of an end portion of a limb, the receptacle being for receipt of an end portion of a limb and a therapeutic liquid, the receptacle defining a liquid-tight region for containing a therapeutic liquid, and including a bottom support frame, wherein the receptacle is collapsible and expandable for receipt of the therapeutic liquid, the bottom support frame being expandable to provide a stable support for the receptacle such that the receptacle can be free-standing when at least partially filled with the therapeutic liquid.

2. A receptacle according to claim I, wherein the receptacle is formed at least in part of flexible sheet material, the sheet material being joined at seams so as to form the liquid-tight region and the bottom support frame.

3. A receptacle according to claim 2, wherein the sheet material defining the liquid-tight region is formed of sides formed of pieces of sheet material and a base piece.

4. A receptacle according to claim 3, wherein the pieces forming the sides extend to form the bottom support frame.

5. A receptacle according to claim 3 or claim 4, wherein the bottom support frame extends substantially around the circumference of the base piece.

6. A receptacle according to claim 5, wherein the bottom support frame is shaped so that a rear surface of the receptacle is backwardly sloped.

7. A receptacle according to any one of the preceding claims, further comprising means enabling a person to see when the receptacle is filled with a predetermined volume of the therapeutic liquid.

8. A receptacle according to any one of the preceding claims, further comprising a hold in the bottom support frame to facilitate tipping of the therapeutic liquid.

9. A receptacle according to any one of the preceding claims, further comprising tightening means for tightening the material of the receptacle at an upper part thereof around the end portion of the limb.

10. A receptacle according to claim 9, including means, located partially or wholly for cushioning around an interior surface of the receptacle at an upper part thereof concentrically with the tightening means to impede or prevent injury or soreness to the end portion of the limb from the tightening means.

11. A receptacle according to any one of the preceding claims, further comprising adhering means extending partially or wholly circumferentially around an interior surface of the receptacle at an upper part thereof to adhere the material of the receptacle to the end portion of the limb.

12. A receptacle according to any one of claims 9 to 11, further comprising at least one rib projecting from an interior surface of the receptacle at an upper part thereof to assist in preventing egress of the therapeutic liquid from the receptacle when the material of the receptacle is tightened against and/or adhered to an end portion of a limb.

13. A receptacle according to any one of the preceding claims, further comprising means, extending partially or wholly circumferentially around an interior surface of the receptacle at an upper part thereof, for at least partially drying the end portion of the limb when removing the end portion from the receptacle.

14. Apparatus comprising a receptacle according to any one of the preceding claims and a pocket, wherein the receptacle and the pocket are formed of at least one piece of flexible sheet material joined at seams to define the liquid-tight region for containing the therapeutic fluid and a containment region of the pocket, wherein a one of the seams separates the liquid- tight region for containing therapeutic fluid and the containment region.

15. Apparatus according to claim 14 or comprising a receptacle according to any one of claims 1 to 13, further comprising means for circulating therapeutic liquid including an inlet tube for supply of the therapeutic liquid to the liquid-tight region and an outlet tube for exit of the therapeutic liquid.

16. Apparatus according to claim 15, wherein the inlet and outlet tubes extend through respective apertures in the receptacle.

17. Apparatus according to claim 14 to 16 or comprising a receptacle according to any one of claims 1 to 13, further comprising bubbling means for causing movement of the therapeutic liquid in the receptacle.

18. Apparatus according to claim 14 to 17 or comprising a receptacle according to any one of claims 1 to 13, further comprising vibration means located such that vibration of the vibration means causes movement of the therapeutic liquid in the receptacle.

19. Apparatus comprising a receptacle for receipt of an end portion of a limb and a therapeutic medium, and means, extending at least partially circumferentially around an interior surface of an open end of the receptacle, for drying the end portion on removing of the end portion of the limb from the receptacle.

20. Apparatus according to claim 19, further comprising tightening means for locating material of the receptacle at an upper part thereof against the end portion of the limb to impede or prevent egress of therapeutic liquid.

21. Apparatus according to claim 20, wherein the material of the receptacle, when located against the end portion of the limb, forms a barrier for impeding or preventing egress of the therapeutic liquid, wherein the therapeutic liquid is located on a one side of the barrier and the drying means is located on another side of said barrier.

22. Apparatus according to any one of claims 18 to 21, further comprising at least one of: adhering means extending partially or wholly circumferentially around an interior surface of the receptacle at an upper part thereof to adhere the material of the receptacle to the end portion of the limb;

at least one rib projecting from an interior surface of the receptacle at an upper part thereof to assist in preventing egress of the therapeutic liquid from the receptacle when the material of the receptacle is tightened against and/or adhered to an end portion of a limb.

23. Apparatus according to any one of claims 18 to 22, further comprising:

non-absorbent compressible material extending partially or wholly circumferentially around an interior surface of the receptacle at an upper part thereof, wherein the non- absorbent compressible material is located adjacent the barrier between the barrier and a region for containing therapeutic liquid.

24. Apparatus according to claim 19 to 23, wherein the receptacle comprises at least one flexible piece of sheet material, wherein the receptacle is collapsible when empty to be substantially flat and is expandable for receipt of the therapeutic liquid medium.

25. Apparatus comprising a receptacle for receipt of an end portion of a limb and a therapeutic medium, and at least one pocket, wherein the receptacle and the pocket are formed of at least one piece of flexible sheet material having seams to define respective containment regions, wherein a one of the seams separates the containment regions.

26. Apparatus comprising a receptacle for receipt of an end portion of a limb, and a therapeutic agent having a solubility in an aqueous solution, wherein the therapeutic agent is located inside said receptacle, and an end of the receptacle is sealed, the end being opened to enable at least partial filling with the aqueous solution to form a therapeutic liquid suitable for treatment.

27. A kit comprising:

apparatus according to claim 14 to 26 or a receptacle according to any one of claims 1 to 13; and

a therapeutic agent, located in the receptacle, having solubility in an aqueous solution.

28. A kit according to claim 27, wherein the agent is packaged in packaging having solubility in the aqueous solution.

29. A kit according to claim 28, wherein the packaging is affixed to an interior surface of the receptacle.

30. A kit according to claim 28 or claim 29, wherein the end of the receptacle through which an end portion of a limb can be inserted is sealed and is openable for use.

31. A kit according to any one of claims 28 to 30 , further comprising at least one of: a compression bandage for use after treatment of a portion of a limb;

drying material for drying of the end portion of the limb; and

a hand sanitizer.

32. A method of treatment of an end portion of a limb with a therapeutic liquid, comprising:

partially filling a receptacle with a therapeutic liquid;

standing the receptacle on a substantially horizontal surface with the therapeutic liquid medium therein such that the receptacle is free-standing;

inserting an end portion of a limb into the receptacle.

33. A method according to claim 32, further comprising bathing the end portion of the limb in the therapeutic liquid.

34. A method according to one of claim 32 and claim 33, further comprising affixing material of the receptacle near an open end thereof against a part of the end portion of the limb to impede or prevent egress of therapeutic liquid from the receptacle.

35. A method according to any one of claims 32 to 34, wherein:

the receptacle is the receptacle of any one of claims 1 to 13, or

the receptacle is the receptacle in claims 14 to 26 and the method is carried out using the apparatus of claims 14 to 26, or

the receptacle is the receptacle in claims 27 to 31 and the method is carried out using the kit of claims 20 to 25.

36. A method of treatment of an end portion of a limb with a therapeutic liquid in a receptacle, the receptacle including absorbent material extending at least partially circumferentially around an interior surface of an open end of the receptacle, the method including: inserting the end portion of a limb in a receptacle and bathing the end portion therein with a therapeutic liquid medium; drying the end portion of the limb on withdrawing of the end portion from the receptacle on the absorbent material.

37. A method according to claim 36, wherein:

the receptacle is the receptacle of any one of claims 1 to 13, or

38. A device for mounting on a body surface to enclose a treatment area, comprising a cover; adhering means for adhering the cover to the body surface, extending circumferentially around a surface portion of the cover so that, when adhered to the body surface, a cavity is formed between the surface portion and the body surface; and at least one of:

barrier means on the surface portion for impeding leakage of therapeutic liquid from within the cavity; and

absorbent means, extending between the cover and the body surface, partially or wholly circumferentially around the outside of the adhering means, for absorbing therapeutic liquid.

39. A device according to claim 38, wherein the barrier means substantially extends around the circumference of said surface portion.

40. A device according to claim 38 or 39, wherein the cover includes self-sealing material for receiving at least one tube through which the therapeutic liquid can be passed.

41. A device according to claim 38 or 39, wherein the cover includes at least one aperture for receiving respective at least one tube through which the therapeutic liquid can be passed.

42. A device according to claim 40 or claim 41, wherein the at least one tube includes an inlet tube and an outlet tube, said inlet and outlet tubes being connected to a fluid circulation system.

43. A device according to any one of claims 38 to 43, wherein the device includes the absorbent means, wherein a further adhering means extends partially or wholly circumferentially around the outside of the adhering means for adhering the cover to the body surface, the absorbent means thereby being substantially being located between the adhesive means and the further adhesive means.

44. A device according to any one the claims 38 to 43, wherein the adhering means and, if present, the barrier means, the absorbent means and the further absorbent means are respectively located in a concentric manner.

45. A device according to any one the claims 38 to 44, wherein the cover is formed at least in part of stretchable material, optionally wherein the stretchable material is resiliency stretchable.

46. A method of preparing a receptacle suitable for treating an end portion of a limb, comprising:

providing a boot-shaped receptacle;

partially filling the boot-shaped receptacle with a therapeutic liquid;

standing the receptacle on a substantially horizontal surface with the merap -jtic liquid therein such that the receptacle is free-standing and such that the receptacle is capable of receiving an end portion of a limb.

47. A method according to claim 46, wherein: the boot-shaped receptacle is a receptacle according to any one of claims 1 to 13; or the boot-shaped receptacle is the receptacle in claims 14 to 26 and the method is carried out using the apparatus of claims 14 to 26; or the boot-shaped receptacle is the receptacle in claims 27 to 31 and the method is carried out using the kit of claims 20 to 25.

48. Apparatus for treatment of an end portion of a limb, comprising: a receptacle for receipt of a therapeutic liquid; and bubbling or vibration means for causing movement or agitation of the therapeutic liquid in the receptacle.

49. Apparatus according to claim 48, wherein the interior surfaces of the receptacle are shaped to approximately correspond to the shape of the end portion of a human or animal limb.