WO2023191677A1 - Holder for fastening a tube-like object to the skin of a user - Google Patents

Abstract

The present invention relates to a holder (1) for fastening of at least one tube-like object (2) to the skin of a user. The holder (1) comprises at least two recesses (4). The form and size of respective recess (4) is adapted to hold a tube-like object (2). The holder (1) is designed so that a recess (4) selected for holding is facing the skin of the user.

Description

HOLDER FOR FASTENING A TUBE-LIKE OBJECT TO THE SKIN OF A USER

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present invention relates to a holder for fastening of a tube-like object to the skin of a user.

PRIOR ART

It is often necessary to fasten tube-like objects to the skin of a health care patient. Examples of such tube-like object include a probe, a catheter, a feeding tube, or a wire for electrical signals, such as a cord for ECG or EEG.

One way to fasten tube-like objects to the skin of a health care patient is by applying adhesive patches or tape, such that the tube-like object is secured between the adhesive side of the tape and the skin.

Patent publication US 4 702 736 discloses a medical clamp comprising an adhesive patch and hook-and-loop fastener. The adhesive patch is adapted as to fasten the patch to the skin of the user and the hook-and-loop fastener is adapted as to fasten at least one tube-like object.

Patent publication US 3 677 250 discloses a tabbed anchoring means comprising two fastening pads connected by an adhesive tape adapted as to form a loop into which a tube-like object can be secured.

Patent publication US 3 782 383 discloses a tiedown wing comprising two wing portions and integral with a hub portion which is outfitted with a channel. When the lower surface of the wings can be pressed towards each other and bent to permit coupling of channel with a tube.

Patent publication DE 201 21 558 U1 discloses a holder which is fixed to a drainage sleeve and a fixer secured to the body surface or skin. The holder comes in closable ring collar form placed when open on the sleeve and holding this firm when closed to prevent sliding. The bendable fixing part has end connectors to close the holder parts together, either releasably or by engagement.

Patent publication WO 2019/119935 A1 discloses a catheter fixation device, comprising at least: a fixing body, a locking mechanism, a skin adhesive layer, at least one of clamp bar and a rotation guide mechanism.

Patent publications US 2009/0036835 A1 and US 2015/0297866 A1 discloses various solutions for a catheter securement. Patent publication US 10 143 825 B2 discloses a catheter management system comprising a rectangular device having a first layer which has multiple grooves, and a second, opposite layer, which is attached to the skin of the user. The device has multiple layers of material with different properties, wherein the utmost layer facing the side with grooves is of a firm material, and the material between the first and second side is of a flexible material. This allows for the device to be bent and the grooves to be opened, when in unbent position the firm material enables for the device to hold onto said tubes.

SUMMARY OF THE PRESENT INVENTION

Problems

It is a technical problem to fasten tube-like objects to the skin of a user without causing discomfort for the user. The tube-like object may cause bedsores when fastened for long periods of time at the same place.

It is also a problem to find a holder that is robust, maintains its position and effectively holds the tube-like object as the object is pulled and as the user moves, or turn around in the bed during sleep.

With users or patients that require several tube-like objects, it is a problem to fasten and manage all of these objects and to separate them from each other when required.

One way to fasten tube-like objects to the skin of a health care patient is by applying adhesive patches or tape, such that the tube-like object is secured between the adhesive side of the tap and the skin.

However, there is a number of problems with adhesive patches or tape exhibited in prior art. For example, pressure sensitive adhesive tape tends to prematurely peel due to accumulated tensioning forces applied to it resulting from movements by the user of the adhesive tape. As such the adhesion is not secure over longer periods of time and requires daily checks.

Another problem with adhesive patches or tape is they could be uncomfortable to remove, the adhesion may even be difficult to remove and cause soreness after being removed.

Another problem with adhesive patches or tape is that it does not allow for movement of the tube-like object in any direction, as such the tube-like object is positioned at the same place and may cause bedsores. The medical clamp as shown in publication US 4 702 736 is connected with a number of problems. For example, the clamp comprises several different elements of different materials, resulting in a complex product with a high manufacturing cost.

Another problem with the foregoing medical clamp is that the hook-and- loop fastener has a limited lifespan as the hooks and loops tear from repeated use and/or can become clogged with dirt, hair or debris and will not work. Yet another problem with the hook-and-loop fastener is the risk of the hook side have a tendency to snag onto textiles, often resulting in ruined textiles and/or damaged hooks, and in pulling the clamp from the skin of the user.

Another problem with the foregoing clamp is the size of the adhesive patch required to ensure secure holding of tube-like object by a hook-and-loop fastener.

The tabbed anchoring means as shown in publication US 3 677 250 is connected with a number of problems. For example, there is a problem to apply the anchoring means as the tape has to be spun around the object to hold the object, whereafter the fastening pads are to be secured to the skin of the user, which is a cumbersome and difficult procedure.

The catheter management system as shown in publication US 10 143 825 B2 is connected with a number of problems. For example, there is a problem to secure the objects in the grooves during daily use. This is especially challenging because movement of the user may cause the device to bend and consequently release the held objects. Also, to what extent release is hindered due to external radial force on the object is largely dependent on the length of the grooves in which the objects are placed. This is because a greater length results in that additional material has to be deformed in order to allow release of held objects. Consequently, the device is either quite large, making it unwieldly, or the device is smaller but does not secure objects reliable enough to resist release during daily use.

Solution

With the purpose of solving one or several of the above mentioned problems, and from the standpoint of prior art such as it has been shown above and the indicated technical field, the present invention teaches a holder for fastening of one or multiple tube-like object to the skin of a user comprising at least two recesses. The form and size of respective recess is adapted to hold a tube-like object. The holder is adapted so that the recess or recesses selected for holding is facing the skin of the user, thereby fastening the object between the holder and the skin of the user, enabling for a compact and secure holder.

In one embodiment of the present invention it is proposed that the holder may comprise a first side adapted to be attached to the skin of the user, and that the first side comprises at least two recesses.

In another embodiment of the present invention it is proposed that the holder may comprise a first side and a second side opposite to said first side, wherein the first and second side is selectable for attachment to the skin of the user, both of them being adapted for said attachment, and that said first side and said second side respectively may comprise at least one of said at least two recesses.

It is proposed that at least two of the at least two recesses may be on the same side of the holder and positioned to either cross each other or to not cross each other.

It is proposed that the length and/or shape of said recess may be adapted to allow the holding of several objects.

It is proposed that the form and size of respective recess may be adapted as to hold tube-like objects with diameters of different sizes.

It is proposed that at least one of said at least two recesses may comprise ledges adapted to lift the object from the skin of the user, wherein the ledges form an opening which is smaller than the diameter of the object and adapted to snap the object into the at least one recess.

In one embodiment of the present invention it is proposed that the width of at least one of said at least two recesses may be smaller than the diameter of the object and adapted to hold the object and hinder axial movement

In another embodiment of the present invention it is proposed that the width of at least one of said at least two recess may be larger than the diameter of the object as to hold the object and enable axial movement

It is proposed that the holder may comprise at least one side on which there is an adhesive adapted to be fastened to the skin of said user, and that said adhesive is a medical grade adhesive. It is also proposed that the adhesive may be waterproof. It is proposed that said holder may have a first marking, or can be marked with a first sticker, to enable coding of said object. It is also proposed that the fist marking on said holder may be matched with a second marking adapted to be put on the distal end of said object, and/or to be put on an equipment, such as a pump or machine, to which said object is connected. It is also proposed that said marking may be colours and/or symbols.

It is proposed that at least one of said at least two recesses may be adapted to an object where said object is:

- a probe, such as a probe or tube for sampling, feeding or medication,

- a catheter, such as a passageway for sampling, medication, drainage, or passage for surgical instruments, or

- a wire for electrical signals, such as a cord for ECG or EEG.

Advantages

The advantages that foremost may be associated with a holder according to the present invention are that tube-like objects can be fastened to the skin of a user without causing discomfort or bedsores for the user.

The inventive holder is robust, maintains its position and effectively holds the tube-like object as the object is pulled and as the user moves, or turn around in the bed during sleep.

Furthermore, since the held object is positioned between the holder and the skin of the user the object is securely held and thus the inventive holder allows for a compact design which is comfortable and suitable for daily use.

The design of the holder enables for a variety of manufacturing methods, such as moulding or 3D printing, allowing for a cost efficient production of the inventive holder.

The direction of the recesses on the holder can be adapted as to hold tube-like objects of varying direction, further increasing comfortability and ability to effectively hold tube-like objects as the user moves.

The size of recesses can be further adapted as to enable, or hinder, axial movement of held tube-like objects, enabling for a wide variety of situations in which the holder is suitable.

The holder also holds and enables the organisation and management of several tube-like objects. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

A holder according to the present invention will now be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

Figure 1 a is a perspective view of a holder with three recesses of different sizes for fastening of a tube-like object,

Figure 1 b shows the holder with three recesses wherein one of said recesses can be chosen for holding a tube-like object to the skin of a user,

Figure 2 is a side perspective view of a holder with two recesses positioned on the same side and wherein the two recesses are of the same size,

Figure 3a is a perspective view of a holder with two recesses positioned on opposite side of each other,

Figure 3b illustrates the larger of the two recesses holding a tube-like object,

Figure 3c illustrates the smaller of the two recesses holding a tube-like object,

Figure 4a is a first perspective view of a holder with four recesses,

Figure 4b is a second perspective view of a holder with four recesses,

Figure 5 illustrates a holder holding several tube-like objects,

Figure 6 illustrates a holder with several recesses of different sizes, adapted to hold tube-like objects with different diameters,

Figure 7 illustrates a holder with several recesses with the same size, adapted to hold tube-like objects with the same diameter,

Figure 8 illustrates a holder with three recesses which have ledges adapted to lift held objects from the skin of the user, and

Figure 9 shows a front view of a holder with two recesses and adhesive on two sides which are opposite to each other.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

In the following, the present invention will be described with a reference to the Figures. Figure 1 a and figure 1 b illustrates a holder 10 for fastening of one or multiple tube-like objects 13 to the skin 12 of a user comprising three recesses, 11 a, 11 b, 11 c. The form and size of respective recess 11 a, 11 b, 11 c is adapted to hold a tube-like object 13. The holder is adapted so that the recess or recesses 11 a, 11 b, 11 c selected for holding is facing the skin 12 of the user. In figure 1 b it is illustrated wherein recess 11 b is selected for fastening a tube-like object 13 to the skin 12 of the user. The inventive holder 10 as illustrated in figure 1 b enables for the user to fasten an additional tube-like object in recesses 11 c, in figure 1 b recess 11 c is not utilized. In one embodiment, which is not illustrated, the holder 10 is of a material enabling for the user to cut the holder 10 as to make the holder 10 even smaller. In such an embodiment the user might cut the holder 10 in half by the recess 11 a and use either recess 11 b, as illustrated in figure 1 b, and/or use recess 11 c separately.

In one embodiment the holder comprises a first side adapted to be attached to the skin of the user, wherein the first side comprises said at least two recesses. Figure 2 illustrates one such embodiment, the holder 20 comprises a first side 21 adapted to be attached to the skin of the user. The first side comprises two recesses 22a, 22b. In figure 2 the recesses 22a, 22b run in parallel and are of the same size as to enable for the user to fasten multiple tube-like objects with the same diameter.

The holder may also have recesses on different sides, figure 3a, figure 3b and figure 3c show one such embodiment. Here it can be seen that the holder 30 comprises a first side 31 and a second side 32 opposite to said first side 31 , wherein the first and second side 31 , 32, is selectable for attachment to the skin of the user, both of them being adapted for said attachment. In figure 3a it is illustrated a larger recess 33 positioned on the first side 31 , and a smaller recess 34 positioned on the second side 32. This enables for the holder 30 to hold a tubelike object with a larger diameter, as shown in figure 3b, or hold a tube-like object with a smaller diameter, as shown in figure 3c. The holder 30 might however in other embodiments comprise several recesses positioned on the same side as to enable for additional tube-like objects to be fastened to the skin of the user, as for example illustrated in figure 1 a-1 b.

In a scenario wherein the at least two of the at least two recesses are on the same side of the holder they can be positioned to either cross each other or to not cross each other. Figure 4a and 4b illustrated an embodiment wherein the holder 40, comprises a first side 41 and a second side 42 opposite to said first side 41 , wherein the first side 41 and second side 42 is selectable for attachment to the skin of user. In the illustrated embodiment two recesses 43a, 43b are positioned on the first side 41 are and are adapted as to cross each other, and two recesses 44a, 44b are positioned on said second said 42 and are adapted as to run in parallel. There are however multiple ways of positioning the recesses. In some scenarios it is beneficial to have the recesses cross each other, for example, when the tube-like objects are best fastened as to run in different direction. Another example of when it’s beneficial for the recesses to cross each other is when the holder is designed in a circular shape and it’s desirable to make the recesses as long as possible as to increase the surface against which the tube-like object is held. Another benefit of having the recesses positioned as to cross each other as illustrated in 4a is to enable for the user to cut the holder in half and retain two smaller holders having the same sized recesses. In other scenarios its more beneficial to have the recesses run in parallel, for example, when the tube-like objects are best fastened as to run in the same direction.

In one embodiment the length and/or shape of recesses are adapted to allow the holding of several objects. In figure 5 it is illustrated an embodiment wherein the holder 50 comprises two recesses positioned on opposite sides, wherein one recesses is holding several tube-like objects 51 of different sizes.

The form and size of respective recess can be adapted as to hold tube-like objects with diameters of different sizes or with diameter of the same size. In figure 6 it is illustrated an embodiment wherein the recesses 61a-61e, are adapted as to hold tube-like objects with diameters of different sizes. In figure 7 it is illustrated an embodiment wherein the recesses 7a-7c are adapted as to hold tube-like objects with diameters of the same size.

It is proposed that at least one of said at least two recesses comprises ledges adapted to lift the object from the skin of the user, wherein the ledges form an opening which is smaller than the diameter of the object and adapted to snap the object into the at least one recess. In figure 8 one such embodiment is illustrated, the holder 80 comprises three recesses 81a, 81 b, 81c wherein each recess 81a, 81b, 81c comprises a ledge 82 which form an opening 83 as to snap a object into a selected recess. In figure 8 a tube-like object 84a with a diameter smaller than the recesses 81c but larger than the opening 83 is selected for holding as to enable movement in axial direction of the tube-like object 84a. In recesses 81 b a tube-like object 84b with a diameter larger than the size of the recesses 81b is chosen for attachment as to hinder movement in axial direction.

It is proposed that the holder comprises at least one side on which there is an adhesive adapted to be fastened to the skin of said user, and that said adhesive is a medical grade adhesive. It is also proposed that the adhesive may be waterproof. In figure 9 there is illustrated a exemplifying embodiment where a holder 90 comprises a first side 911 , 921 , and a second side 912, 922, which both have an adhesive layer.

It is proposed that said holder has a first marking, or can be marked with a first sticker, to enable coding of said object. It is also proposed that the fist marking on said holder may be matched with a second marking adapted to be put on the distal end of said object, and/or to be put on an equipment, such as a pump or machine, to which said object is connected. It is also proposed that said marking may be colours and/or symbols. In figure 8 there is illustrated a exemplifying embodiment where a first marking 85 is positioned on a holder 80 comprising several recesses 81a, 82b, 82c.

It is proposed that at least one of said at least two recesses is adapted to an object where said object is:

- a probe, such as a probe or tube for sampling, feeding or medication,

- a catheter, such as a passageway for sampling, medication, drainage, or passage for surgical instruments, or

- a wire for electrical signals, such as a cord for ECG or EEG.

The inventive holder will now be explained in relation to figure 9 using different terminology than previously as to facilitate understanding of the inventive concept. The holder 90 can be expressed as having a first and second fastening pad 91 , 92 which have a second side 912, 922 opposite to the first side 911 , 921. Both the first 911 , 921 and the second 921 , 922 side may be adapted to be attached to the skin of the user, where either one is selectable for attachment.

Here it can be seen that a bridge 93 and the first and second fastening pad 91 , 92 form two gaps 94, 95, wherein a first gap 95 is positioned between the first and second fastening pad 91 , 92 on the first side 911 , 921 and a second gap 94 is positioned between the first and second fastening pad 91 , 92 on the second side 912, 922. It is proposed that the distance between the first and second fastening pad 91 , 92 is different on the first 911 , 921 and second 921 , 922 side, thereby being adapted as to form two gaps 94, 95 of different sizes so that the first and second gap 94, 95 are adapted to hold objects with mutually different outer diameters.

It will be understood that the invention is not restricted to the aforede- scribed and illustrated exemplifying embodiments thereof and that modifications can be made within the scope of the invention as defined by the accompanying claims

Claims

1 . Holder for fastening of at least one tube-like object to the skin of a user, characterised in that, said holder comprises at least two recesses, wherein the form and size of respective recess is adapted to hold a tube-like object, and wherein a recess selected for holding is facing the skin of the user.

2. The holder according to claim 1 , characterised in that, said holder comprises a first side adapted to be attached to the skin of the user, and that said first side comprises said at least two recesses.

3. The holder according to claim 1 , characterised in that, said holder comprises a first side and a second side opposite to said first side, wherein the first and second side is selectable for attachment to the skin of the user, both of them being adapted for said attachment, and that said first side and said second side respectively comprises at least one of said at least two recesses.

4. The holder according to any previous claim, characterised in that, at least two of the at least two recesses are on the same side of the holder and positioned to either cross each other or to not cross each other.

5. The holder according to any preceding claim, characterised in, that the length and/or shape of said recess is adapted to allow the holding of several objects.

6. The holder according to any previous claim, characterised in that, the form and size of respective recess is adapted as to hold tube-like objects with diameters of different sizes.

7. The holder according to any previous claim, characterised in that, at least one of said at least two recesses comprises ledges adapted to lift the object from the skin of the user, wherein the ledges form an opening which is smaller than the diameter of the object and adapted to snap the object into the at least one recess.

8. The holder according to any previous claim, characterised in that, the width of at least one of said at least two recesses is smaller than the diameter of the object and adapted to hold the object and hinder axial movement

9. The holder according to one of claims 1 to 7, characterised in that, the width of at least one of said at least two recess is larger than the diameter of the object as to hold the object and enable axial movement

10. The holder according to any preceding claim, characterised in, that the holder comprises at least one side on which there is an adhesive adapted to be fastened to the skin of said user, and that said adhesive is a medical grade adhesive.

11 . The holder according to claim 10, characterised in, that said holder, and that said adhesive, is waterproof.

12. The holder according to any preceding claim, characterised in, that said holder has a first marking, or can be marked with a first sticker, to enable coding of said object.

13. The holder according to claim 12, characterised in, that the fist marking on said holder is matched with a second marking adapted to be put on the distal end of said object, and/or to be put on an equipment, such as a pump or machine, to which said object is connected.

14. The holder according to claim 12 or 13, characterised in, that said marking are colours and/or symbols.

15. The holder of any preceding claim, characterised in, that at least one of said at least two recesses is adapted to an object where said object is:

- a probe, such as a probe or tube for sampling, feeding or medication,

- a catheter, such as a passageway for sampling, medication, drainage, or passage for surgical instruments, or

- a wire for electrical signals, such as a cord for ECG or EEG. 