MXPA98007553A - Improvements that refer to appliances for osto - Google Patents

Abstract

The present invention relates to an ostomy filter comprising a filter housing (24) having a cylindrical stoma (28) into which a cylindrical filter element (36) is received. The filter element (36) has an axial length greater than its radius, and slides longitudinally in the stoma (28). A user can select a filter element to be used by having appropriate flow rate characteristics to suit his needs. The filter could be a discrete filter mounted on the wall of the bag, or it could be incorporated into a stomatal opening coupling member (16) for the bag. In one form, the filter element (36) can be replaced by introducing a new filter element through the outer end (30) of the stoma, to move the prefilter element and to throw it through the inner end (32) of the stoma in the bag. The filter element could contain the superabsorbent to absorb any liquid spilled on the filter. The cylindrical filter element could be produced using conventional production facilities used in the cigar filter industry. A superabsorbent-containing material or an elongated bar of superabsorbent that can be placed in a bag, for example, a urostomy bag, is also exposed, without the need for an additional applicator.

Description

-and-EJORA IEI-TOS OUE REFER TO APPLIANCES FOR OSTOMIA The invention relates generally to ostomy appliances. In one aspect, the invention relates to a deodorizing filter arrangement for an ostomy bag. In another aspect, the invention relates to a superabsorbent member suitable for use in an ostomy bag, and also to a method for introducing the superabsorbent member into a bag. This aspect of the invention is particularly suitable for use with ileostomy bags or urostomy bags, but is not limited to these applications only.

The previous art is full of suggestions that aim to allow flatulent gases to be ventilated from an ostomy bag. Many such arrangements include means to deodorize these gases by using filters of various types.

For example, reference is made to the arrangements proposed in GB-A-2, 225, 952 and US-A-4, 451, 258 (both of E.R.

Squibb and Sons, Inc.) and GB-A-2, 177, 926 (Craig Medical Products Limited). Reference is further made to WO-A-96/10378, EP-A-0709076 and US 4211224. 028450 Such designs may provide advantages to the ostomate, for example, in terms of flow rate adjustability and filter replacement. However, there remains an additional need for compact, simple and effective filter arrays that can be economically processed.

In contrast to many conventional filter elements in which a flat filter is received within a flat filter housing, one aspect of the present invention is to employ a filter housing having a stoma therein, and a deodorizing filter element. elongate received or longitudinally admissible within the stoma. The stoma preferably has a dimension greater than its, or a, lateral dimension. Preferably, in use, the flow of gas through the deodorizing filter element is generally in an axial direction.

For the avoidance of doubt, the elongated term is used here broadly to represent that the length is greater than, or a lateral dimension.

During the development of work leading to this aspect of the invention, it was appreciated that compact filters are already mass produced in the cigar filter industry. Although the conventional cigarette filters themselves could not be completely effective in deodorizing the unpleasant odors of flatulent gases, for example, sulfur dioxide to which human smell is extremely sensitive, the production facilities could nevertheless be appropriate. for the production of ostomy deodorizing filters. In contrast to the prior art, the invention allows the advantage of being carried out for the first time of the existence of the production facilities used in the industry of filters for cigars to mass produce compact ostomy filters, very economically lengthened, for the better knowledge and confidence of the inventor, such type or construction of filter has not been contemplated for use in ostomy until now.

Preferably, the stoma and the filter element are generally cylindrical, although this is not essential in all modalities.

Preferably, the stoma is generally linear. The ends of the stoma could be generally transverse to the axis of the stoma, or one or both ends could be inclined relative to the axis. In the latter case, the stoma is preferably about the same length as the filter element, whereas in the latter case, the stoma is preferably larger than the filter element (to ensure that the filter element is contained within the stoma along its total length).

Preferably, the filter element is of exact fit within the stoma, and is held in position by frictional engagement between the filter and the inner surface of the stoma. One or more of the projections on the inner surface of the stoma could be provided to the holder of the filter element. Alternatively, or additionally, one or more end members, for example, end coverages, could be employed to contain the filter within the stoma.

In a preferred form, the filter element can be manually positioned within the stoma by being slid in the stoma through one end. Preferably, this can be done by the ostomate while the bag wears, or prior to the wear of the bag.

In a particularly preferred form, an existing filter element positioned within the stoma is displaceable, or ejectable, through one end of the stoma by inserting a new filter element through the opposite end. This may allow simple replacement of the filter without a person having to open, and then re-insure, the filter housing to access the filter element as in many designs of the prior art (which in some cases may require considerable skill).

More preferably, the stoma is arranged with an open end in the bag, so that the ejected filter element can fall into the bag. This is particularly advantageous, because it can allow the replacement of the filter without the ostomate having to handle and dispose the old filter. It will be appreciated that after some time in use, a filter could normally accumulate fecal material, or suspension, on its surface, particularly if the bag is almost full, or if the fecal material has been spilled in the compartment for other reasons. The handling of such contaminated filters presents a hygiene risk. Also, it could not always be convenient to have the old filter.

Another preferred feature is that a range of different filter elements be provided to allow an ostomate to select a filter with an optimum flow rate characteristic. The flow rate characteristic could be controlled by varying, for example, the density of the filter, the density of the pore, or the tortuosity through the filter. The bag could be supplied with a pack of such different filter elements, or the ostomate could be able to acquire a different pack, or the same, filter elements separately. The ostomate can then insert desired filter element into the housing prior to filter wear. Filter elements, for example, could be colored differently to indicate different flow rates.

In a preferred form, the filter housing is incorporated within a coupling member of an ostomy coupling. The filter is preferably incorporated in the bag-side coupling member, but could also be incorporated if desired into the side-body coupling member.

In a further aspect, the invention provides a filter for deodorizing ostomy comprising: a filter housing having a stoma therein, the orifice having a longitudinal dimension greater than a lateral dimension; Y an elongated or longitudinally admissible filter element inside the stoma.

Preferably, the gas flow path within the stoma is in one or more generally axial directions.

Preferably, the stoma and filter element are generally cylindrical.

Preferably, the filter element is inserted into one end of the stoma. More preferably, the filter element is thrown through one end of the stoma by inserting a replacement filter through an opposite end.

In a further related aspect, the invention provides an ostomy bag including a deodorizing filter, the deodorizing filter comprising: a filter housing having a stoma therethrough, the stoma includes an "inner" end communicating with an interior space of the bag, and an opposite outer end; a longitudinally elongated filter element received within the stoma to deodorize the gas escaping through the bag, the filter element that is thrown through the inner end of the stoma into the bag by inserting an object of displacement through the outer end of the stoma.

Preferably, the object is an element of the replacement filter.

In a further related aspect, the invention provides an element of the ostomy deodorizing filter, the element which is generally cylindrical and which has an axial length greater than its radial dimension, and preferably larger than its diameter. Preferably, the filter element is relatively rigid. The filter element could be attached to a cover to help retain the shape of the element. The cover could be rigid or semi-rigid. The cover could be a water soluble material, for example, polyvinyl alcohol.

Preferably, the filter element contains the superabsorbent material to absorb any liquid spilled or soaked into the filter element. This is particularly advantageous for filter or bag configurations in which no barrier is provided to obstruct the passage of liquid in the filter.

In a closely related aspect, the invention provides a method of replacing a filter element in a bag having a filter housing in a stoma from which an elongated filter element is received, the method comprising: throwing the existing filter through an inner end of the stoma by inserting an object through an opposite outer end of the stoma to press the existing filter through the inner end and into the bag; and insert a replacement filter into the stoma through the outer end.

The steps of the above method could be performed separately, but preferably carried out simultaneously as a single step of the method of inserting a new filter element into the stoma, which acts as an object to press the existing stoma filter and into the stoma. bag.

In a further related aspect, the invention provides a method of replacing a filter element in a bag having a filter housing in a stoma from which an elongated filter is received, the method comprising: inserting a replacement filter element longitudinally into a first end of the stoma; Y advancing the replacement filter element in the stoma to move the existing filter element and throw it through a second opposite end of the stoma.

In a further aspect, the invention provides a method of forming deodorizing filter elements for ostomy bags, the method comprising forming an elongated bar of the filter material, and cutting or sliding the bar into discrete elements.

The elements could have a transverse dimension that is smaller than, or a longitudinal dimension, as described above. Alternatively, the elements could be in the form of slices having a transverse dimension greater than their axial thickness. Such elements could then be used as filter "disks" or layers in a conventional filter cover of an ostomy bag.

Preferably, the filter elements are the general cylindrical.

In a further aspect, the invention provides an ostomy bag comprising a filter as stated above in any preceding aspect. The filter could be received inside a plastic housing, or it could be received inside a cover or compartment formed by one or more sheets of plastic films, or it could be attached directly to a wall of the bag.

Even in a further aspect that relates to superabsorbent members, there have been a number of purposes for using the superabsorbent material to gelatinize the liquid contents of a bag, for example, either a urostomy bag or an ileostomy bag. For example, reference is made to GB-A-2 268 882 (E.R. Squibb and Sons, Inc.) in which a urostomy bag is exposed in which a superabsorbent sheet can be introduced to gelatinize the urine in the bag. Such an effect can increase customer acceptance and confidence in the bag, because the gelatinized urine will not tend to fit in a slot near the bag in the same way as liquid urine. Such a groove is noisy and causes pain for the person who uses it, and can create doubts in the mind of the person who uses it if the bag is attached securely.

However, urostomy bags normally use a non-return valve in their uppermost region, through which the superabsorbent material has to be introduced. The valve is commonly formed by adhesion that holds the walls of the bag together. The effect is to allow the liquid to enter the bag to drip through the valve by gravity, but it substantially prevents any liquid in the bag from splashing through the valve as the person spending it moves nearby. GB-A-2 268 882 mentioned above describes a tubular applicator with which the superabsorbent sheet can be introduced through the non-return valve in the envelope form. Although such a technique can solve many of the problems in the art, it would be desirable to facilitate the introduction of a superabsorbent material without the need, and costs, of a separate applicator.

In general, the ileostomy bags do not employ a non-return valve, but nevertheless it can be very difficult for a user to insert a superabsorbent sheet into the bag, particularly for small opening diameter bags. In addition, such bags are frequently empty, and will require a new superabsorbent sheet to be introduced for each new use. It can be difficult for a user to insert the blade without contacting their hands on the inner surface of the bag that could be obstructed with the ileostomy suspension. Such contact is unhygienic, unpleasant and painful for the user.

The present invention has been invented supporting the above problems in mind.

In contrast to the prior art, one aspect of the invention is to provide a superabsorbent member (eg, a member comprising or containing the superabsorbent material) in a rigid or semi-rigid, elongate, rod or bar form.

Such a rod or bar can be simply inserted through the wrist end of the hand through the opening and the non-return valve of a urostomy bag, without becoming obstructed by the valve and without the need for an applicator. When used for such an application, the member is preferably at least sufficiently rigid that it can be forced through the non-return valve.

The rod or bar can also be easily inserted into the ileostomy bag and maneuvered or manipulated more easily in the position, without the user having to touch the inner surface of the bag.

Preferably, the superabsorbent member is made substantially completely of one or more gelatinizable materials soluble in water and / or one or more water-soluble materials. When the member comes into contact with the liquid (eg the urine in the bag), the member can disintegrate without leaving any solid part behind. This can avoid any solid part in the contents of the bag when the bag is, for example, emptied in a toilet in a conventional manner.

In one form, the superabsorbent member is formed in a manner similar to a conventional cigar filter. The granules, or powder-like microgranules, of the superabsorbent material can be packaged in, or distributed in or on an inner lining of material to form, a rod or bar using the processing similar to that conventionally used in the cigar filter production industry. .

A particular advantage is that such members could be produced using the proven, existing production facilities already used in the cigar filter industry, with small, if any of the modifications that are required to produce a series of superabsorbent-containing members.

The superabsorbent could be carried out on the material which is itself soluble in water. For example, a suitable material could be polyvinyl alcohol PVOH (either in the form of film, fiber or filament).

The member could comprise an outer cover or shell to protect and maintain the shape of the rod member. Preferably, the cover or sheath is made of water-soluble material, for example, polyvinyl alcohol.

The member could alternatively comprise a cover or envelope containing the superabsorbent granules. The cover or envelope could be of a soluble material, for example polyvinyl alcohol.

The superabsorbent materials are known per se, and are available from a number of different manufacturers. As an example is the Salsorb CL10 material produced by Allied Colloids.

It will also be appreciated that other "active" materials, such as odor counter-active agents, disinfectants and preservatives, could be included in the member.

In another aspect, the invention provides a member as discussed above, and an ostomy bag having an opening (either a permanent opening, or a closed opening) through the member that can be inserted into the bag. The opening could, for example, be the stoma opening, or it could be, for example, a closed drain.

In another aspect, the invention provides a bag (e.g., a urostomy bag) and a superabsorbent member or that contains the superabsorbent, the urostomy bag comprises an inlet opening and a non-return valve adjacent to the opening, and the member that is provided in the form of an elongated rigid or semi-rigid bar or rod, the member that is inserted directly through the opening and the non-return valve in the bag collecting chamber of the liquid.

Preferably, the length of the member is greater than the minimum distance between the opening and the non-return valve.

In a further aspect, the invention provides a method comprising: providing a urostomy bag having an inlet opening and a non-return valve adjacent to the opening; providing a superabsorbent or superabsorbent-containing member in the form of a rigid or semi-rigid, elongated rod or rod; and insert the member through the end of the wrist through the opening and the non-return valve into the liquid collecting region of the bag.

In yet an additional, the invention provides a method comprising: provide an ostomy bag that has a permanent opening (permanent or closed); providing a superabsorbent or superabsorbent-containing member in the form of a rigid or semi-rigid, elongated rod or rod; and insert the member through the end of the wrist through the opening and into the collecting region of the bag.

Although the above aspects could be used independently, additional developments can be obtained by using two or more of the above aspects in combination.

The embodiments of the invention are now described only by way of example, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which: Fig. 1 is a rear view of a first embodiment used in an ostomy bag; Fig. 2 is a sectional schematic view along line II-II of Fig. 1; Fig. 3 is a schematic perspective view of a filter element in isolation; Fig. 4 is a schematic sectional view similar to Fig. 2, but showing the replacement of the filter; Fig. 5 is a partial back view of a second embodiment; Fig. 6 is a schematic sectional view along line VI-VI of Fig. 4; Fig. 7 is a schematic sectional view by means of a third filter mode; Fig. 8 is a schematic sectional view by means of a fourth filter mode; Fig. 9 is a schematic sectional view through a fifth filter mode; Fig. 10 is a rear partial cutaway view of a urostomy bag; Fig. 11 is a schematic section illustrating the introduction of a superabsorbent member into the bag; Fig. 12 is a schematic illustration of the superabsorbent member; FIG. 13 is a partial cutaway rear view of a second embodiment of a urostomy bag; Y Fig. 14 is a partial cut back view of an ileostomy bag.

Referring to FIGS. 1 and 2, an ostomy bag 10 comprises a front wall 12 and a rear wall 14 of plastic films adhered together around it. periphery. A side-engaging member of the plastic bag 16 adheres to the back wall 14 of the bag as a half of a mechanical coupling to secure the bag to a conventional body side-engaging member (not shown) attached to the peripheral area of the ostomato. by means of a conventional adhesive adapter (not shown).

In the present embodiment, the lateral coupling member of the bag 16 generally consists of a flat flange 18 from which a generally cylindrical wall 20 projects around the stomal opening 22 of the bag . Although not illustrated in detail, the cylindrical wall 20 could be formed with, or support, a locking or latching element for coupling the body side engaging member. Such elements are well known in the art, the reader which relates in particular to the rupture coupling described in GB 1571657, and the split-ring coupling described in EP 0737456 and EP 0737458.

The design of the bag is thus far described largely conventional to those skilled in the art.

A filter housing 24 is integrally molded into an elongated uppermost portion 26 of the flange 18 (eg, the uppermost one when the bag is observed in its normal orientation). The filter housing 24 consists of a raised profile through which a cylindrical stoma 28 generally extends. The stoma has an outer end, or opening 30, open to the external atmosphere, and an inner end 32 that is open to the interior of the bag through a vent opening 34 in the back wall 14 of the bag. The axial length of the stoma is greater than the radius of the stoma (and, in this modality, greater than the diameter of the stoma).

An elongated, generally cylindrical filter element 36 is received longitudinally within the stoma 28. The filter element 36 is dimensioned to be just of exact fit within the stoma 28 and, in use, is held in position by friction. If desired, "one or more projecting tabs (not shown) could be provided on the inner side of the stoma 28 to increase the hold on the filter element 36.

Referring to Fig. 3, the filter element 36 consists of a cylindrical inner liner or packing 38 of an appropriate filter material such as activated carbon, or a material containing or carrying activated carbon. The inner lining could be at least slightly compressible to allow it to be received as a forced fit within the stoma 28. In this embodiment, there is no permeable gas, the wall of impermeable liquid in the bag to prevent the liquid from coming in contact with the filter . Therefore, it is preferred that the filter contain superabsorbent material (expandable liquid) to absorb any liquid spilled on the filter element 36. This can substantially prevent, or at least delay, the passage of liquid penetrates the material of the filter. filter, and in this way increase the effective life of the filter.

A suitable superabsorbent material is a crosslinked hydrophilic polymer, for example, sodium polyacrylate. The superabsorbent could either be completely distributed through the filter material, or it could be a discrete mass (represented by lines punctuated by the number 40) received, for example, within a space or bag of the inner lining 38. In this embodiment , the inner liner 38 is surrounded by a cylindrical cover 42, for example, of paper or plastic film (for example, water-soluble plastics (PVOH)), to contain and protect the inner lining, and to provide the element with a degree of rigidity The cover 42 is preferably made of a flexible material, instead of a rigid shell.

Depending on the amount, and the configuration, of the superabsorbent in the filter element 36, the expansion of the superabsorbent due to the absorption of the liquid could be used to block the filter once the superabsorbent has reached absorption saturation; the resulting balloon from the bag caused by trapping gas that is not capable of venting through the filter would then indicate to the stomate that the filter needs to be replaced, as described above.

The filter element 36 is typically between about 1 cm and about 3 cm in length, with a diameter between about 0.5 cm and about 1 cm. The stoma 28 has dimensions that approximately correspond to those of the filter, so that the raised portion of the housing does not need to be unnecessarily protected from the face of the bag, and to provide frictional retention of the filter within the bag. Although not illustrated in the drawings, the tab 16 could have a rear projection that protects inside the bag. This would allow the "height" of the exterior projection to be reduced, and could also provide a separation function to prevent the walls of the bag from adhering together.

It has been appreciated during the work leading to the present invention that such an elongated, cylindrical filter containing activated carbon and / or containing superabsorbent can be produced using conventional production facilities in the cigar industry. This can allow appropriate compact filters to be mass produced very economically. In general, the s.e filters would produce as a continuous or elongated bar, which is then cut or sliced into discrete filter elements.

Typically, the inner liner of the filter would then comprise a plurality of fibers or filaments packed together tightly, and generally aligned in the longitudinal direction. In one form, the inner liner and / or the cover include or define one or more spaces or chambers for receiving the deodorizing material. In another form, the filaments could comprise, or carry the deodorizing material.

With reference to Fig. 4, when it is desired to replace the filter element 36, a fresh filter element 44 is advanced into the stoma 28, this contacts the existing filter element 26 and presses it back to be discharged or thrown through the inner end 32 of the stoma. Discharge filter element 36 falls into the bag, fresh filter element 44 leaving in place in stoma 28. It would be appreciated that such a filter replacement is extremely simple, and there is no need to separately dispose of the prefilter element 36. , since this is automatically added to the contents of the bag.

If preferred, the prefilter element 36 can be thrown before the element of the new filter 44 is introduced. For example, the tip of a pencil could be introduced into the stoma to force the existing filter element 36 into the bag.

In the above embodiment, the length of the filter element 36 has to be accommodated within the profile of the filter housing, the stoma 28 which is generally perpendicular to the plane of the flange 18. As explained above, the "height" projected onto the exterior of the pouch can be reduced by using a rear extension of the housing, and "decreasing" the stoma 28 relative to the flange. Additionally, or alternatively, stoma 28 could be inclined diagonally relative to the flange, to accommodate the length of stoma 28 at a smaller "height" or lodging thickness. Such modifications are illustrated in the fourth subsequent embodiment.

In a second embodiment, referring to Figs. 5 and 6, the filter that receives the stoma does not extend through the tab and into the bag. Instead, stoma 50 extends generally parallel to the plane of the flange, adjacent to its outer surface. Opposite ends 52 and 54 of stoma 50 both open to the outside atmosphere, and gas enters the filter from the bag through a central opening 56 in stoma wall 50 and flange 18. The gas flow divides into two axial routes opposite the opposite ends 52 and 54 of the stoma.

In this embodiment, the filter element 36 is similar to that described above (but it is a requirement that the gas can enter the filter half along its length). The filter element 36 is replaceable by introducing a replacement filter element (not shown) at one end of the stoma, to force the prefilter element to be thrown through the opposite end. However, with this embodiment, the prefilter element 36 does not fall into the bag, and will need to be disposed separately. However, such an arrangement does not allow a permeable, substantially impermeable liquid barrier to be used (e.g. ex. as illustrated in dotted lines by numbering 58) to avoid, or at least reduce, the liquid contact with the filter.

Fig. 7 illustrates a further embodiment that is similar to the second embodiment described above, but stoma 60 has only one end 62 open to the outside atmosphere. The inner end 64 is closed, except for a passage 66 leading to the flange 18 and the wall of the bag. In use, gas from the bag vent through the passage 66, the inner end 64 of the stoma 60, and axially through the filter element 36 to the outer end 62 of the stoma.

Although it is possible to remove the filter element 36 from the stoma 60, and introduce a replacement filter element, this arrangement is more appropriate for filters that are not intended to be replaceable in use.

Although the foregoing embodiments illustrate arrays of filters that are incorporated into a bag engaging member, it will be appreciated that the same arrangements could be employed in discrete filters fitted either to the front or back wall of a bag. For example, Fig. 8 illustrates such a discrete filter mode. This is similar to the first embodiment described above, filter housing 70 has a stoma from side to side 72 similar to stoma 28 to allow filter elements to be discharged into the bag. In this embodiment, the housing includes a peripheral flange 74 to allow the housing 70 to be attached or adhered to the wall of the bag. The housing also includes a rear extension 76 of the type discussed previously to reduce the projector profile of the housing. The stoma 72 inclines diagonally in relation to the flange 74, to further reduce the projector profile of the housing.

Fig. 9 illustrates a fifth embodiment that is similar to the fourth embodiment described above. However, in the fifth mode the stoma 80 is generally parallel to the flange. A long open region 82 is provided at the inner end 84 of the stoma 80 to allow a filter element to be discharged from the stoma to fall sideways into the bag. The length of the open region 82 is slightly larger than the length of the filter element, so that the filter element should be free to fall into the bag. The open region 82 could be wider than the stoma 80 so that there should be no tendency for the filter element discharged to adhere the wall of the housing.

It will be appreciated that prior filter designs for a coupling member could also be used for a discrete filter, and designs for a discrete filter could also be incorporated into a coupling member.

With the above modalities, it is preferred that a range of filter elements having different flow rate characteristics be provided, to allow the ostomate to choose the best filter to suit his personal needs. It will be appreciated that different people produce different amounts of flatulence, and this also depends on the type of food eaten. The filter should be able to vent flatulence at such a rate to prevent the bag from inflating under normal conditions, but it should also provide sufficient strength to avoid collapsing the bag (which could cause the front and back walls to adhere).

For example, each bag could be accompanied by different filter elements to allow the ostomate to select the most appropriate filter. Alternatively, the ostomate could be able to choose filter packages separately. Particularly, with the first, second and third modes described above, the filters could be initially supplied with a "standard" filter element, the ostomate has the opportunity to use the filter by inserting a different filter element - to suit its needs.

The filter could also be initially supplied with a solid plug element which blocks the stoma 28. The stomate then needs - if desired only to fit a filter element.

It will also be appreciated that the first, second and fourth embodiments described above provide a very simple way of replacing the filter element. The disposition in the bag of the used filter element, provided with the first and fourth modes, is very hygienic and avoids the need to separately handle and dispose of the old filter element.

It will also be appreciated that this aspect of the invention, particularly as described in the preferred embodiments, may allow the use of the new type of filter that can be provided very economically with the experienced production facilities normally used in the cigar filter industry.

Referring to Fig. 10, a urostomy bag 110 is formed by a front wall 112 and a rear wall 114 of plastic sheets, adhered together around its periphery. A side connector of the bag 116 is secured to the rear wall 114 near the urine inlet opening 118 in the rear wall 114. The connector 116 allows the bag to be mechanically coupled to a side adhesive body component (not shown). ) used by the stomate.

Prior to opening 118 there are a number of spot welds 120 securing the front and rear walls 112 and 114. Spot welds form a non-return, splash valve to prevent urine in the main collection region 122 from splashing above the opening 118 where the user moves nearby. In the region of the spot welds 120, the front and rear walls are kept in close contact with one another. The liquid entering the bag through the opening 118 is capable of dripping through the spaces 124 between the spot welds, by gravity; however, the liquid that splashes into the bag in general is not capable of trailing through the small spaces 124 (although the liquid could escape if the bag was reversed for any length of time).

Other forms of non-return valves, in particular other welded arrangements (eg as described in the aforementioned GB-A-2 268 882) could also be used.

At the lower end of the bag, the front and rear walls 112 and 114 define an outlet conduit or tube 126 to facilitate emptying the bag. In normal use, the outlet tube 126 is closed by means of a conventional fastener (not shown), which tightens the walls. to form a tight seal of liquid. In this embodiment, the tube 126 could be relatively narrow, since the bag will not be used to contain any solid matter.

Referring to Figs. 11 and 12, a superabsorbent member 130 is provided for insertion into the bag. The member 130 is generally rigid, or semi-rigid, and is in the form of an elongated rod or bar. In this embodiment, member 130 is the general cylindrical, having a diameter between about 0.5 and about 2 cm, and a length between about 2 and about 20 cm. The member 130 is sufficiently rigid to allow it to be introduced through the opening, and is forced through the non-return valve (eg through a space 124 between two spot welds 120), in the region of collection of liquid 122 without the need for an applicator.

This can easily be done manually, by inserting the member 130 from the outside through the opening, and advancing it downwards. Once the member 130 has passed to the non-return valve it sits in the liquid collecting region 122 where it will gelatinize. urine as urine is collected in the bag.

The superabsorbent member is preferably produced by conventional production facilities used in the cigar filter industry. By using a superabsorbent-containing or superabsorbent-bearing material, the material packed in an inner lining, the appropriate elongate members can be formed by processing the material in the same manner as in the production of conventional cigar filters.

In the present embodiment, the material is soluble in water, for example, polyvinyl alcohol, The member also includes an external cylindrical overall cover, also of water-soluble material, for example, polyvinyl alcohol. The cover serves to protect and contain the superabsorbent-containing material, and may aid in the retention of the member's shape.

In use, when the urine comes in contact with the member 130, the outer shell 132 dissolves, thereby allowing the superabsorbent material to contact and gelatinize the urine. The material in which the superabsorbent material is carried also dissolves, such that there are no solid parts remaining in the contents of the bag, in this preferred embodiment. In other embodiments which could employ at least some non-gelatinous / non-soluble material in the member 130, the remains could remain and require disposal with the contents of the bag when the bag is emptied.

Upon emptying, the user would have to squeeze the bag to ensure that all the gelatinized material is discharged through drain tube 126.

It will be appreciated that, if desired, a new member 130 could be introduced through drain tube 126, for example, after emptying, instead of through the inlet opening. In such a case, the use of a rigid (or semi-rigid) elongated member 130 can simplify the introduction, which is easily controllable, and reduces the risk of the user's hands touching the inner surfaces of the bag and being soiled. by the urine on the walls of the bag.

Fig. 13 illustrates a second mode of the urostomy bag - This mode is very similar to that of the first modality described above, but the drain tube 126 is replaced by a shunt positioned, for example on the front wall (shown schematically in 140). Many bypass designs are known in the art, ranging from a narrow stoma tube, which can be bent over the seal of the tube (for example as illustrated in GB-A-2 058 011 - Kingsdown Medical Consultants), to a multipiece bypass (for example, a rotary bypass as illustrated in GB-A-2 101 274 - Craig Medical Products).

It will be appreciated that, with this embodiment, the superabsorbent member 130 can only be introduced through the inlet opening, which emphasizes the conventional problem of being able to maneuver the member through the non-return valve. The shunt would be designed to allow the gelatinized contents of the bag to be forced through the shunt because the bag is tightened.

Fig. 14 illustrates an ileostomy bag 142. In contrast to a urostomy bag, an ileostomy bag is not normally provided with a nonreturn valve, and therefore such a valve is omitted in this mode. The ileostomy bag is similar to the first embodiment in that it has a drain conduit 144 at its lower ends, defined by the front and back walls of the bag. The drain conduit is closed in normal use by means of a fastener (not shown). As seen in Fig. 14 the duct is generally wider than the duct 126 of the urostomy bag, since the ileostomy bag is required to be capable of containing at least some solid fecal material, and allow such solid matter is emptied.

The ability to be able to maneuver a rigid or semi-rigid superabsorbent member in the bag (either through an entry opening, or through drain conduit 144) is especially advantageous for an ileostomy bag, because after use initial, the walls of the bag will be contaminated with fecal suspension. It can be very unhygienic, unpleasant and painful for the user if their hands come in contact with the inside faces of the bag walls when the superabsorbent material is introduced. This is a serious problem when the sheets of superabsorbent material are used, but can be overcome by using a rigid or semi-rigid rod or rod member as in the present invention.

It will be appreciated that this aspect of the present invention can provide a superabsorbent member, or a superabsorbent-containing member, which is simple and clean to manually enter a bag, even a urostomy bag or an ileostomy bag, without requiring use. of an applicator. Of course, if desired, an applicator may be used for hygiene reasons. The superabsorbent member can be produced compactly, using conventional production facilities used in the cigar filter industry, which means that production costs need not be expensive.

Although the features and aspects of the invention are believed to be of particular importance have been established in the above description and in the appended claims, the Applicant claims protection for any new ideas, features or combination of features described herein or illustrated in the drawings. that accompany without considering if they have been emphasized in them.

It is noted that in relation to this date, the best method known by the applicant to carry out the aforementioned invention, is the conventional one for the manufacture of the objects to which it refers.

Having described the invention as above, the content of the following is claimed as property.

Claims (26)

1. A coupling member of an ostomy bag for attaching an ostomy bag to a complementary coupling member that includes a deodorizing filter assembly; characterized in that the assembly comprises a filter housing having a stoma therein, and an elongated filter element received or longitudinally within the stoma.

2. The coupling member of claim 1, characterized in that the stoma has a longitudinal dimension greater than a lateral dimension.

3. The coupling member of claim 1, characterized in that the gas flow path through the filter element is generally in an axial direction.

4. The coupling member of claim 1, characterized in that the stoma and the filter element are generally cylindrical.

5. The coupling member of claim 1, characterized in that the filter when positioned within the stoma is thrown through one end of the stoma by inserting a pressing object through the opposite end of the stoma.

6. The coupling member of claim 1, characterized in that the filter element is inserted into the member by sliding the filter through an open end of the stoma.

7. The coupling member of claim 1, characterized in that the member comprises a flange projecting laterally to allow the flange to be joined in face-to-face contact with a wall of the pouch, and the stoma has a first end open on one end open the tab, and a second open end, on the other side of the tab.

8. The coupling member of claim 1, characterized in that the member comprises a flange projecting laterally to allow the flange to be joined in face-to-face contact with a wall of the pouch, and the stoma has a first and second opposite end of the pouch. Same side of the tab.

9. The coupling member of claim 8, characterized in that it further comprises a gas inlet opening positioned at or near the center of the length of the stoma, the opening that is open at the opposite end of the flange to the open ends of the stoma.

10. The coupling member of claim 1, characterized in that the filter element comprises the superabsorbent material.

11. An ostomy bag, characterized in that it comprises a first wall of the bag with a flatulence vent in it, and a filter assembly, the filter assembly comprises a housing attached to the wall of the bag and has a stoma in the same as communicating with the flatulence vent, the stoma includes a filter that receives the array of the region or arranged to extend generally externally of the bag wall, and the assembly further comprises an elongated filter element that A gas flow path through the filter that is generally in an axial direction is received longitudinally within the stoma.

12. The ostomy bag according to claim 11, characterized in that the filter element is ejectable in the bag introducing a pressing object at one end of the stoma.

13. The ostomy bag according to claim 11, characterized in that the filter element is generally cylindrical.

14. A deodorizing filter element for one. ostomy bag, the lengthening filter element and, characterized in that it comprises a plurality of longitudinally aligned filaments, the filter element includes the deodorizing material for masking, absorbing or changing odor of the ostomy and a covering of flexible material surrounding said filaments.

15. The deodorizing filter element according to claim 14, characterized in that the cover comprises a sheet or film wrapped around the filaments.

16. The deodorizing filter element according to claim 14, characterized in that the element further comprises the superabsorbent material.

17. The deodorizing filter element according to claim 16, characterized in that the superabsorbent material is sodium polyacrylate.

18. The deodorizing filter element according to claim 14, characterized in that the superabsorbent material is activated carbon.

19. A deodorizing filter assembly, characterized in that it comprises a plurality of elongated deodorizing filter elements, each for insertion into an elongated stoma of a filter housing of an ostomy bag to deodorize the flatulence passing through the housing, each element of filter includes the deodorizing material for masking, absorbing or changing the odor of the flatulent gases, and the filter elements having in general the same transverse dimension, the plurality of the filter elements include the first and second filter elements having resistances flow rates different to the passage of gas through the filter to provide flow velocities to vent flatulent gases.

20. The deodorizing filter assembly according to claim 19, characterized in that each filter element is generally cylindrical.

21. A deodorizing filter apparatus for an ostomy bag, characterized in that it comprises: a filter housing having a stoma therein; first and second elongated filter elements, whether received within the stoma, the first and second element having different flow resistances to the passage of gas through the filter- into the stoma to allow the user to select a filter element that provides a desired flatulent gas ventilation flow rate.

22. A superabsorbent or superabsorbent-containing member for an ostomy bag, characterized in that it comprises a member that is inserted into an ostomy bag without the need for an applicator, the member is provided in a rigid or semi-rigid bar or rod form and a cover of water-soluble material surrounding said member.

23. In combination, an ostomy bag, and a superabsorbent or superabsorbent-containing member for an ostomy bag, characterized in that it comprises a member that is inserted into an ostomy bag without the need for an applicator and that is provided in a bar form or rigid or semi-rigid rod, elongated.

24. The bag and member as defined in claim 23, characterized in that the bag is a urostomy bag and the urostomy bag includes one or more adhesions between the front and back walls of the bag defining a non-return valve to allow that the liquid through it by gravity, but to prevent the liquid from splashing through the valve.

25. The bag and member according to claim 24, characterized in that the member is inserted directly through an opening in the bag, and through the non-return valve, in the liquid collecting region of the bag.

26. A method, characterized in that it comprises: providing an ostomy bag having an opening; providing a superabsorbent or superabsorbent-containing member in the form of a rigid or semi-rigid rod or rod; and introducing the member in the final part through the opening and in the collection region of the ostomy bag, without the use of an applicator apparatus. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION An ostomy filter comprises a filter housing (24) having a cylindrical stoma (28) into which a cylindrical filter element (36) is received. The filter element (36) has an axial length greater than its radius, and es longitudinally in the stoma (28). A user can select a filter element to use having appropriate flow velocity characteristics to suit his needs. The filter could be a discrete filter mounted on the wall of the bag, or it could be incorporated in a stomatal opening coupling member (16) for the bag. In one form, the filter element (36) can be replaced by introducing a new filter element through the outer end (30) of the stoma, to move the prefilter element and to throw it through the inner end (32) of the stoma in the bag. The filter element could contain the superabsorbent to absorb any liquid spilled on the filter. The cylindrical filter element could be produced using conventional production facilities used in the cigar filter industry. A superabsorbent-containing material or an elongated bar of superabsorbent that can be placed in a bag, for example, a urostomy bag, is also exposed without the need for an additional applicator.