CA2228163A1 - Medical device easily removed from skin and a method of removal therefrom - Google Patents
Medical device easily removed from skin and a method of removal therefrom Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- CA2228163A1 CA2228163A1 CA002228163A CA2228163A CA2228163A1 CA 2228163 A1 CA2228163 A1 CA 2228163A1 CA 002228163 A CA002228163 A CA 002228163A CA 2228163 A CA2228163 A CA 2228163A CA 2228163 A1 CA2228163 A1 CA 2228163A1
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- CA
- Canada
- Prior art keywords
- electrode
- patient
- adhesive
- flexible
- monitoring according
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
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Classifications
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
- A61N—ELECTROTHERAPY; MAGNETOTHERAPY; RADIATION THERAPY; ULTRASOUND THERAPY
- A61N1/00—Electrotherapy; Circuits therefor
- A61N1/02—Details
- A61N1/04—Electrodes
- A61N1/0404—Electrodes for external use
- A61N1/0472—Structure-related aspects
- A61N1/0492—Patch electrodes
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
- A61B—DIAGNOSIS; SURGERY; IDENTIFICATION
- A61B5/00—Measuring for diagnostic purposes; Identification of persons
- A61B5/24—Detecting, measuring or recording bioelectric or biomagnetic signals of the body or parts thereof
- A61B5/25—Bioelectric electrodes therefor
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
- A61N—ELECTROTHERAPY; MAGNETOTHERAPY; RADIATION THERAPY; ULTRASOUND THERAPY
- A61N1/00—Electrotherapy; Circuits therefor
- A61N1/02—Details
- A61N1/04—Electrodes
- A61N1/0404—Electrodes for external use
- A61N1/0408—Use-related aspects
- A61N1/0428—Specially adapted for iontophoresis, e.g. AC, DC or including drug reservoirs
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
- A61N—ELECTROTHERAPY; MAGNETOTHERAPY; RADIATION THERAPY; ULTRASOUND THERAPY
- A61N1/00—Electrotherapy; Circuits therefor
- A61N1/02—Details
- A61N1/04—Electrodes
- A61N1/0404—Electrodes for external use
- A61N1/0472—Structure-related aspects
Abstract
An electrode for attachment to a patient comprises a flexible planar member, an electrically conductive member embedded in said flexible member and adapted for contact with the patient, a layer of electrically conductive adhesive applied to the conductive member and the flexible planar member on a side of the flexible planar member facing the patient. Through holes extend completely through the electrode and, optionally, may also extend through the layer of adhesive.
Alternatively, a permeable electrode having a permeable member which allows a solvent to pass through to the adhesive may be used to eliminate the need for through holes in the electrode. The permeable electrode may also be coated with sodium chloride or potassium chloride and used in conjunction with an applicatorcontaining an alcohol gel which liquefies upon contact with the sodium chloride or potassium chloride. A transdermal patch comprises a layer or compartment where the medication is stored and a layer of adhesive through which the medication diffuses. Again, a plurality of through holes are formed completely through the product and, optionally, through the adhesive as well. An applicator containing the solvent can be placed in direct contact with the top of the electrode or the top of the transdermal patch. In this manner, the solvent can be directed through the through holes formed in either the electrode or the patch to release the solvent and to facilitate its removal.
Alternatively, a permeable electrode having a permeable member which allows a solvent to pass through to the adhesive may be used to eliminate the need for through holes in the electrode. The permeable electrode may also be coated with sodium chloride or potassium chloride and used in conjunction with an applicatorcontaining an alcohol gel which liquefies upon contact with the sodium chloride or potassium chloride. A transdermal patch comprises a layer or compartment where the medication is stored and a layer of adhesive through which the medication diffuses. Again, a plurality of through holes are formed completely through the product and, optionally, through the adhesive as well. An applicator containing the solvent can be placed in direct contact with the top of the electrode or the top of the transdermal patch. In this manner, the solvent can be directed through the through holes formed in either the electrode or the patch to release the solvent and to facilitate its removal.
Description
.. . .
MEDICAL DEVICE ~SILY REMOVED FROM SKIN AND A
METHOD OF REMOVAL THEREFROM
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
The present invention relates, in general, to medical devices (such as mP-lic~l electrodes and transdermal patches) which are ~ ched to a patient's skin.
In particular, a medical electrode and ~ransdermal patch are each disclosed which have featnres that enable them to be easily removed from the skin of a patient. A
method o~F easily removing such medical devices is also disclosed.
BACKGRO~-D OF THE INVENTION
Medical electrodes and transdermal patches are well known in the art.
l0 Many types of medical electrodes have been introduced in recent years. Typically they comprise: (1) a metallic or elec~rically conductive carbon terminal member electrical]y connPcted to an electro-medical apparatus such as an electrocardiograph;
~GI:~GCC~390~AT-003.DOC
.
GCC-23',10 - 2 - PATENT
MEDICAL DEVICE ~SILY REMOVED FROM SKIN AND A
METHOD OF REMOVAL THEREFROM
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
The present invention relates, in general, to medical devices (such as mP-lic~l electrodes and transdermal patches) which are ~ ched to a patient's skin.
In particular, a medical electrode and ~ransdermal patch are each disclosed which have featnres that enable them to be easily removed from the skin of a patient. A
method o~F easily removing such medical devices is also disclosed.
BACKGRO~-D OF THE INVENTION
Medical electrodes and transdermal patches are well known in the art.
l0 Many types of medical electrodes have been introduced in recent years. Typically they comprise: (1) a metallic or elec~rically conductive carbon terminal member electrical]y connPcted to an electro-medical apparatus such as an electrocardiograph;
~GI:~GCC~390~AT-003.DOC
.
GCC-23',10 - 2 - PATENT
(2) an adh.esive tape or pad for holding the terminal member in place on the skin;
and (3) an. electrically conductive .on~ormable interfacing material such as electrolyte gel or paste over the surface of the terminal member which contacts the skin to reduce skin impedance and tO irnprove electrical contact between the skin 5 and the terminal member. The adhesive may be introduced into the electrically conductive material.
Medical electrodes should not be confused with sensor support bases. Such bases are described, for example. in l,-.S. Patents No. 4,947,853, No. 4,947,865, and No. 5,070,880. Such support de~iices are used in conjunction with Doppler o tr~n~ ers and, hence, are not deFendent on electrical conductivity to obtain proper readings. The '853 patent and the '865 patent relate, for example, to devices for monitoring the contractions of a patient in labor. The '880 patent relates to a stabilization device for supporting a transcranial Doppler tr~n~ ]cer housing adjacent to the temporal bone of the head. This is useful, for example, for 5 obtaining accurate blood flow velocitv measurements. Because none of these devices depend on electrical conduc~ivity to obtain proper readings, the use of an adhesive which is electro-conductive to secure these devices to the patient is completely l-nn~cess~ry.
Various devices are also known in the art for delivering medication to a 20 patient traLnsderrnally. Iontophoretic devices for delivering ionized drugs through the skin have been known since the early 1900's. U.K. Patent No. 410,009 (1934) describes an iontophoretic device which is powered by a galvanic cell aLnd whichincludes a. material cont~inino the druo to be delivered transdermally. The galvanic cell produces the current n~ceSs~r~ for iontophoretically delivering the drug.
25Today, iontopheresis is nol limited solely to the delivery of ions (e.g., drugions) into the body by meaLns of electric current. For exarnple, it is now recognized that iontopheric delivery devices can be used to deliver an uncharged drug or agent into the body. This is accomplished by a process called electro-osmosis. Electro-osmosis is the transderrnal flu.~ of a liquid solvent (e.g., the liquid solvent cont~inin~ the uncharged drug or agent) which is in~lce~ by the presence of an electric field imposed across the ,kin by the donor electrode. As used herein, the 5 terms "iontopheresis" and ~ionopheretic" refer to one or more of (1) the delivery of charged drugs or agents by electromigration, (2) the delivery of uncharged drugs or agents by the process of electro-osmosis, (3) the delivery of charged drugs or agents by the connbined processes of electromigration and electro-osmosis, and (4) the delivery of a mixture of charged and uncharged drugs or agents by the combined 0 processes of electromigration and electro-osmosis.
Other transdermal patches do not require electrical power for proper operation. An example of such ~n item is the Nicotrol transdermal nicotine patchproduct (~icotrol is a registered trademark of the Pharmacia AB Corporation).
This patch. comprises two distinct la-ers. The layer nearest the patient's skin is a 5 combination of a non-woven poly,ester and a polyisobutylene and polybutene adhesive. Covering this layer is an imperrneable l~min~te~1 polyester backing layer.
This backing layer prevents evapora~ion of nicotine from, or tr~n~mi~sion of light to, the nicotine-cont~ining laver beneath. A layer of adhesive is applied on theimpermealble backing layer. The non-woven polyester layer is placed over the 20 adhesive and another adhesive la~er is applied over the polyester. The two adhesive layers penetrate the poly,esler (non-uniforimly) to form a single adhesive/polyester composite layer. The nicotine is introduced by printing it on the non-woven polyester layer before the second application of adhesive. Once the patch is applied, the nicotine diffuses out of the adhesive/polyester layer and into 25 the skin oiF the patient. As sold, the patch includes a release layer which protects the adhesive and which is removed before applying the patch to the skin of the patient.
The removal of medic31 ele~lrodes or transdermal patches from the skin of patients risks discomfort or pain. .~ clinician can apply a specific solvent, such as isopropyl alcohol, to help remo~e ~he electrode from the skin painlessly. An eyedropper c~m be used to wet the sk~n-adhesive boundary while the user 5 simultaneously lifts the edge of Ihe electrode. This approach is slow and cumbersorne and it requires a skilled person. The reason for these disadvantages is that the solvent reaches only a sm~ll portion of the adhesive at a time and, because the solvent penetrates slowly, the whole process of removal is slow. The uneven distribution of the solvent at the edge of the electrode while lifting it might cause 0 pain to the patient.
SIJ~L~RY OF THE INVENTION
AII electrode for ~tt~hment to a patient comprises a flexible planar member, an electrically conductive member embedded in the flexible member and adapted 15 for contact with the patient, and a layer of electrically conductive adhesive applied to the conductive member and lo the flexible planar member on a side of the flexible planar member facing Ihe 2atient. Through holes extend completely through the flexible planar member IO the layer of adhesive and may also, optionally, extend through the adhesive layer. Alternatively, a permeable electrode 20 having a permeable member which allows a solvent to pass through to the adhesive may be used to elimin~te the ne d lor through holes in the electrode. The permeable electrode may also be coated with sodium chloride or potassium chloride and used in conjunction with an applicator cont~ining an alcohol gel which liquefies upon con~act with the sodium chloride or potassium chloride. A transdermal patch25 comprises a layer or comparcment where the medication is stored and a layer of adhesive Ihrough which the medication diffuses. Again, a plurality of through holes are formed completel,v through lo the adhesive and, optionally, through the adhesive Is well. An applicator Cont~ining the solvent can be placed in direct contact with the top of the electrode or the top of the transdermal patch. In this manner, the solvent can be directed through the through holes formed in either the electrode or the patch t~ r '~ llL. l to facilitate its removal.
g. ~ ~ /2~/q 7 BRIEF DESCRIPIION OF THE DRAWINGS
Fig. 1 is a cross-sectional side view of an electrode in accordance with a first exemplary embodiment of the present invention;
Fig. 2 is a bottom view of the electrode shown in Fig. 1;
Fig. 3A is a cross-sectional side view illustrating the use of an applicator to facilitate electrode removal in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present irlvention;
Fi.g. 3B is a cross-sectional side view illustrating the use of an applicator to5 facilitate electrode removal in accordance with another exemplary embodiment of the present invention;
Fi.g. 4A is a cross-sectional top view illustrating the use of an applicator to facilitate electrode removal in accordance with another exemplary embodiment of the prese:nt invention;
Fig. 4B is a cross-section~l side view illustrating the use of the applicator shown in Fig. 4A to facilitate electrode removal in accordance with the present invention;
Fi'g. 5A is a cross-sectionai side view similar to that shown in Fig. 3B which illustrates the use of an applicator _ont~ining an alcohol gel to facilitate the removal of a permeable electrode coated ~ith sodium chloride or potassium chloride in accordance with another exemplar, -mbodiment of the present invention;
Fig. 5B is a cross-sectional side view similar to that shown in Fig. 4B which illustrates the use of an applicalor .om~iningr an alcohol gel to facilitate the removal of a permeable electrode coated with sodium chloride or potassium chloride in accordance with another exemplar~ embodiment of the present invention;
Fig 6A is a cross-sectional side view illustrating the use of an applicator to 0 facilitate electrode removal in accordance with another exemplary embodiment of the present invention;
Fig. 6B is a cross-sectional side view illustrating the use of an applicator to facilitate e:lectrode removal in accordance with another exemplary embodiment ofthe present invention;
Fig. 6C is a front plar~r view illustrating an embodiment of the applicator shown in Fig. 6B for facilit~ting -lectrode removal in accordance with the present invention;
Fig. 6D is a front planar view illustrating another embodiment of the applicator shown in Fig. 6B for facilitatirlg electrode removal in accordance with the presen.t invention; and Fig 7 is a cross sectional ,ide view of a transdermal patch in accordance with an exemplary embodiment or the present invention.
DET.~ILED DESCRIPTION
The present invention relales IO the use of medical devices having through holes or permeable members (such as electrodes and transdermal patches) which are 5 attached with adhesive to a pa~iem's skin. By applying a solvent through the through holes or permeable members, the adhesive is dissolved or neutralized andremoval of the m~ l device from the patient's skin is facilitated.
A first embodiment of the present invention is shown in Fig. 1. Fig. 1 is a cross-sectional side view (nol drawn to scale) of a medical electrode 1 in o accordance with an exemplarv embodiment of the present invention. The medical electrode 1 shown in Fig. 1 is used to make electrical contact between the patient's skin 11 and an approp~iate device 10 used for acquisition of medical data (e.g., an ECG or lhe like). Eyelel 13 is embedded in planar member 15 which, preferably, is made of a flexible material such as foam polymer. A label 16 typically is placed on the top of planar member 1~. Stud 14 is in contact with eyelet 13 and engagesflange 1~ to sandwich planar member 15 and label 16 thereby securing stud 14 in place. Electrical wires are attached between stud 14 and the medical data acquisition device 10. Electrode 1 includes an electrically conductive adhesive 12 which covers eyelet 13 and is placed on the side of planar member 15 which faces20 skin 11 of a patient. The elec~rically conductive adhesive 12 assures that electrode 1 is held in place on the patiem's skin 11. In this way, the required electricalconductivity between the patiem's skin 11 and eyelet 13 is obtained.
I'hrough holes 17 are also formed in electrode 1. As shown in Fig. 2, holes 17 are forrned in multiple locations throughout planar member 15. Also, as shown25 in Fig. 1, these through holes mav be formed through conductive adhesive 12 (although this is not required for some applications). The size, shape, and number GCC-2391~ - 8 - PATENT
of holes depend on numerous faclors. including the size of the electrode and thematerial and thickness of ~he adhesi~e. The size of the holes typically ranges between 0 1 to 10 mrn in diame~er. lhe number of holes typically ranges between 4 to 100. The greater the number OI holes or the greater the size of the holes, the easier it is for the solvent to reach ~e adhesive and dissolve or_neutralize the o m ~ ~/2~/~7 ~.~ ,Z/2~/~7 adhesive. It is also desirable. ho~ever, to~ the number and size of the hole4.
to assure that there is adequate adhesion between the electrode and the patient's shn.
It rnay be desirable, given a certain sized electrode, to vary the number and lo size of holes until an applopliate level of adhesion and removal ease is obtained.
The invem:ors have found, for e.~mple, for a 40 rnm diameter electrode, a total of 25 holes of 0.3 mm diameter ~re ~esirable. Although an increased number of holeswill facilitate t'he removal of ~he ~dhesive, it is understood that the applicator of the present invention is not limited for use with electrodes having any specified number of holes. As will be readily reco~nized by those having ordinary skill, the present invention may be used with elec~odes such as the neonatal Model 1801 PELLET
FOAM~ electrode having four through-holes and manllfartured by Graphic Controls C'orporation, Buffalo~ ~Y.
Typical materials for the adhesive are described, for example, in U.S.
Patent No. 5,124,076. The adhesive is of sufficient thickness to adhere the electrode l:O the patient's skin (t~pically 0.2 - 0.5 mm). Each of these numbers is desirably selected to assure tha~ rhe holes do not interfere with the mechanical and electrical properties of the electrode.
Shown in Figs. 3A and ~B Is an applicator 20 comprising absorbent dispensing material 21 which contains a solvent or adhesive-neutralizing material.
Dispensing material 21 may comprise a sponge or cloth material such as felt, cotton, a non-woven material (e.g.. Rayon), or foam which is saturated with a solvent (e.g., isopropyl alcohol. acelone, or water) or other adhesive-neutralizing material. Dispensing material '1 is partly surrounded with a thin, flexible, plastic layer 22. As shown in Fig 3A. bv placing the applicator on the top of the electrode 1 and applying pressure m the direction of arrow R on tlne top of the 5 applicator, the user forces the soivent or adhesive-neutralizing material uniformly and with proper pressure through holes 17 of planar member 15. In this manner, the solven.t or adhesive-neutralizing material is placed in contact with the adhesive 12 and, if through holes 17 extend through the adhesive 12, as shown, placed at the interface between adhesive 1~ and skin 24.
As shown in Fig. 3B. the applicator may also be used in conjunction with a permeable electrode 2 having conductive adhesive 12 and permeable member 3.
Permeable member 3 permits the solvent or a&esive-neutralizing material to penetrate through to adhesive 1~ thus elimin~ting the need for through holes to achieve painless electrode remo~-al from a patient's skin 24. Any electrode having 15 a perrneable material which permits penetration by the solvent or adhesive-neutralizi]lg material may be used with applicator 20. Such permeable materials may preferably include, but are nol limited to, cloth materials such as felt, cotton, a non-woven material (e.g., Rayon!. foam, or GORE-TEX~ expanded fiber materials. GORE-TEX~ e~panded fiber materials are available from W.L. Gore 20 and Associates, Newark, DE. To avoid evaporation of the solvent from dispensing material 21, applicator 20 is desirably kept in a sealed plastic bag when not in use.
Sh.own in Figs. 4A and lB is applicator 50 in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention which provides for easy and painless removalof permeable electrodes 2 having permeable substrates from the skin. Applicator 25 50 comprises absorbent dispensing material 51 which contains a solvent or adhesive-neutralizing material. The dispensing material 51 is placed in box 52 and may comprise a sponge or cloth material such as felt, cotton, a non-woven material GCC-23~,10 - 10- PATENT
(e.g., Rayon), or foam which is saturated with a solvent (e.g., isopropyl alcohol, acetone, or water) or otner adhesi~e-neutralizing material. The bottom 59 and sides 60 of box 52 are made of a rigid material such as a thin metal (e.g., al--minllm), or a rigid pla,stic material which, prererably, is moldable (e.g., polypropylene or5 ABS). The top 53 of box 52 is a membrane made of a flexible material such as athin elastic rubber or silicon rubber. Located in the bottom 59 of box 52 is an opening 54 which is larger than the permeable electrode 2 to be removed. The bottom 551 of box 52 also includes an extension 55 having a wedge 56.
The procedure for removing permeable electrode 2 from the skin 58 of a o patient is as follows. First, opening 54 of applicator 50 is placed over permeable electrode 2 as shown in Fig. ~B. ~e.YI, the membrane of top 53 is pushed downwarcl in the direction of arrow D. The applied pressure presses the solvent or adhesive-lleutralizing material from dispensing material 51 uniformly and with proper pressure into and through permeable member 3 of permeable electrode 2 andacts to weaken adhesive 12 underneath. Upon lifting applicator 50, wedge 56 is then used to "shave off" electrode 2 from a patient's skin 58. The rigid structure of applicator 50 allows the applicalor to be held by hand.
Shown in Figs. 5A and 5B are applicators 80 and 90, respectively, in accordance with additional exemplarv embodiments of the present invention which 20 may be used in conjunction with permeable electrodes 82 and 92, respectively.Permeable electrodes 82 and 92 have permeable members 83 and 93, respectively, which are made preferably of clo~h. The permeable members 83 and 93 are treated by applying sodium chloride or potassium chloride, preferably, either during themanufacture of the electrode or imrnediately before removing the electrode from the 25 skin with the applicator. Fig. 5.~ ,hows applicator 80 which corresponds substantially to applicator ~0 shown in Fig. 3B but with alcohol gel 81 replacing dispensing material 21. Fig. 5B shows applicator 90 which corresponds GCC-239() - 11 - PATENT
substantial]y to applicator 50 shown in Fig. 4B but with alcohol gel 91 replacing dispensing material 51. Alcohol gels 81 and 91 are exposed along the surfaces ofapplicators 80 and 90, respectively. which contact permeable members 83 and 93 upon applying pressure in the direction of arrows P as shown in Figs. 5A and 5B.5 Upon contact with the sodium or potassium chloride contained in permeable members 83 and 93, the respective alcohol gels 81 and 91 liquefy. T'ne liquefiedportion of alcohol gels 81 and 91 then penetrate through permeable members 83 and 93 to contaLct and weaken the conductive adhesive 12, thereby facilit~ting removal of permeable electrodes 82 and 92 from a patient's skin. By applying alcohol gelo 81 and 91 to permeable electrodes trealed in this manner, the sodium or potassium chloride contained in the treated electrode upon contact with the alcohol gel only liquefies that amount of alcohol gel required to convert the salt such that the applicators 80 and 90 can be removed and stored until needed again.
Shown in Figs. 6A and 6B are applicators 68 in accordance with another exemplary embodiment of the present invention which may be used in conjunction with permeable electrodes, preferably of cloth, which have been treated with sodium ch]oride or potassium chloride. The removal process is illustrated in Figs.
6A and 6B, in which upon applying pressure in the direction of arrows A and B, alcohol gel 61 is dispensed in the direction of arrow C for application to a treated cloth electrode (not shown) to weaken the electrode adhesive after which the electrode may be easily removed from a patient's skin. The electrodes are treated by applying sodium chloride or potassium chloride to the surface of the electrode, preferably either during the ma~nufacture of the electrode or immediately beforeremoving it from the skin with the applicator. By applying alcohol gel 61 to thepermeable electrodes treated in this manner, the sodium or potassium chloride contained in the treated electrode liquefies the alcohol gel upon contact and perrnits GCC-~390 - 12- PATENT
the liquid lo penetrate through the ?ermeable electrode to weaken the electrode adhesive, thereby facilitating resnoval of the permeable electrode from a patient's skin.
Such permeable electrodes capable of being used with applicator 68 include 5 permeable electrodes 82 and 9'2, ~icc~lcse~ above, but it is understood that any electrode having a perrneable material such as cloth which permits the penetration by the liquefied alcohol may also be used. Such permeable materials may include,but are not limited to, felt, cotton. a non-woven material (e.g., Rayon), foarn, or GORE-TEX~ expanded fiber mate-ials. GORE-TEX~ expanded fiber materials are 10 available from W.L. Gore and .~ssociates, Newark, DE. The applicator 68 shownin Figs. 6A and 6B may be corlstructed from a thin tube 62 which is similar in construction to a toothpaste tube and made of a material which is squeezable andselected to provide the desired fle:~ing~ characteristics. For example, a deformable material such as al--min~m is preferred if it is desired that tube 62 remain in a 5 collapsed condition after sque~7ing. On the other hand, a resilient material such as plastic is preferred if it is desired ~hal tube 62 return to and substantially retain its original shape after sq~lee7ing. Tube 62 is filled with an alcohol gel 61 which preferably contains about 75Ga to 100~ alcohol by volume. Tube 62 is closed at one end by a stopper 67 and has an opening 63 at the opposite end for dispensing20 the alcohol gel 61. The opening of the tube may be formed into a taper 64 as shown in Fig. 6B which may include a slit 65 (as shown in Fig. 6C) or a plurality of holes 66 (as shown in Fig. 6D). B,v moving the applicator 68 along the top ofthe electrode and squeezing the tube 62 in the direction of arrows A and B, alcohol gel 61 can be distributed on the surface of a permeable electrode in a controlled 25 manner.
Fig. 7 illustrates an exemplar,v embodiment of the present invention with regard to transdermal patches. In Fig. 7, a side cross sectional view (not drawn to GCC-23'~0 - 13- PATENT
scale) of transdermal patch 30 is shown. Transdermal patch 30 includes layer 35 in which thLe medicine to be ~-lminictered to the patient is located. As with electrode 1 shown in Fig. 3A, an adhesive 32. which need not be conductive, is shown in Fig.7 which rn:~int~ins transdermal palch 30 in contact with the patient's skin 31. The medicine diffuses from layer 35 through adhesive 32 and imo the patient's skin 31.
Again, a desirable number of through holes 37 are formed in transdermal patch 30.
Again, th.e holes may optionally e.~ctend through adhesive 32 if desired. Removal of transdermal patch 30 is accomplished by applying an applopliate solvent or adhesive-neutralizing material through the through holes 37 to dissolve or neutralize adhesive 32 at the adhesive-skin interference. An applicator such as applicator 20 shown in Fig. 3A may be used in a similar manner to the manner in which applicator 20 is used to remove a medical electrode.
It is understood that the invention may be used to remove any devices having a permeable structure or construction in conjunction with an adhesive. It is also understood that the invention may be applied to numerous types of transderrnal patches including battery-powere patches which use such techniques as iontopheresis for delivering the mediicine to the patient. Although the invention has been described in terms of exemplarv embodiments, it is contemplated that it maybe practiced as outlined above with modifications within the spirit and scope of the appendedi claims.
and (3) an. electrically conductive .on~ormable interfacing material such as electrolyte gel or paste over the surface of the terminal member which contacts the skin to reduce skin impedance and tO irnprove electrical contact between the skin 5 and the terminal member. The adhesive may be introduced into the electrically conductive material.
Medical electrodes should not be confused with sensor support bases. Such bases are described, for example. in l,-.S. Patents No. 4,947,853, No. 4,947,865, and No. 5,070,880. Such support de~iices are used in conjunction with Doppler o tr~n~ ers and, hence, are not deFendent on electrical conductivity to obtain proper readings. The '853 patent and the '865 patent relate, for example, to devices for monitoring the contractions of a patient in labor. The '880 patent relates to a stabilization device for supporting a transcranial Doppler tr~n~ ]cer housing adjacent to the temporal bone of the head. This is useful, for example, for 5 obtaining accurate blood flow velocitv measurements. Because none of these devices depend on electrical conduc~ivity to obtain proper readings, the use of an adhesive which is electro-conductive to secure these devices to the patient is completely l-nn~cess~ry.
Various devices are also known in the art for delivering medication to a 20 patient traLnsderrnally. Iontophoretic devices for delivering ionized drugs through the skin have been known since the early 1900's. U.K. Patent No. 410,009 (1934) describes an iontophoretic device which is powered by a galvanic cell aLnd whichincludes a. material cont~inino the druo to be delivered transdermally. The galvanic cell produces the current n~ceSs~r~ for iontophoretically delivering the drug.
25Today, iontopheresis is nol limited solely to the delivery of ions (e.g., drugions) into the body by meaLns of electric current. For exarnple, it is now recognized that iontopheric delivery devices can be used to deliver an uncharged drug or agent into the body. This is accomplished by a process called electro-osmosis. Electro-osmosis is the transderrnal flu.~ of a liquid solvent (e.g., the liquid solvent cont~inin~ the uncharged drug or agent) which is in~lce~ by the presence of an electric field imposed across the ,kin by the donor electrode. As used herein, the 5 terms "iontopheresis" and ~ionopheretic" refer to one or more of (1) the delivery of charged drugs or agents by electromigration, (2) the delivery of uncharged drugs or agents by the process of electro-osmosis, (3) the delivery of charged drugs or agents by the connbined processes of electromigration and electro-osmosis, and (4) the delivery of a mixture of charged and uncharged drugs or agents by the combined 0 processes of electromigration and electro-osmosis.
Other transdermal patches do not require electrical power for proper operation. An example of such ~n item is the Nicotrol transdermal nicotine patchproduct (~icotrol is a registered trademark of the Pharmacia AB Corporation).
This patch. comprises two distinct la-ers. The layer nearest the patient's skin is a 5 combination of a non-woven poly,ester and a polyisobutylene and polybutene adhesive. Covering this layer is an imperrneable l~min~te~1 polyester backing layer.
This backing layer prevents evapora~ion of nicotine from, or tr~n~mi~sion of light to, the nicotine-cont~ining laver beneath. A layer of adhesive is applied on theimpermealble backing layer. The non-woven polyester layer is placed over the 20 adhesive and another adhesive la~er is applied over the polyester. The two adhesive layers penetrate the poly,esler (non-uniforimly) to form a single adhesive/polyester composite layer. The nicotine is introduced by printing it on the non-woven polyester layer before the second application of adhesive. Once the patch is applied, the nicotine diffuses out of the adhesive/polyester layer and into 25 the skin oiF the patient. As sold, the patch includes a release layer which protects the adhesive and which is removed before applying the patch to the skin of the patient.
The removal of medic31 ele~lrodes or transdermal patches from the skin of patients risks discomfort or pain. .~ clinician can apply a specific solvent, such as isopropyl alcohol, to help remo~e ~he electrode from the skin painlessly. An eyedropper c~m be used to wet the sk~n-adhesive boundary while the user 5 simultaneously lifts the edge of Ihe electrode. This approach is slow and cumbersorne and it requires a skilled person. The reason for these disadvantages is that the solvent reaches only a sm~ll portion of the adhesive at a time and, because the solvent penetrates slowly, the whole process of removal is slow. The uneven distribution of the solvent at the edge of the electrode while lifting it might cause 0 pain to the patient.
SIJ~L~RY OF THE INVENTION
AII electrode for ~tt~hment to a patient comprises a flexible planar member, an electrically conductive member embedded in the flexible member and adapted 15 for contact with the patient, and a layer of electrically conductive adhesive applied to the conductive member and lo the flexible planar member on a side of the flexible planar member facing Ihe 2atient. Through holes extend completely through the flexible planar member IO the layer of adhesive and may also, optionally, extend through the adhesive layer. Alternatively, a permeable electrode 20 having a permeable member which allows a solvent to pass through to the adhesive may be used to elimin~te the ne d lor through holes in the electrode. The permeable electrode may also be coated with sodium chloride or potassium chloride and used in conjunction with an applicator cont~ining an alcohol gel which liquefies upon con~act with the sodium chloride or potassium chloride. A transdermal patch25 comprises a layer or comparcment where the medication is stored and a layer of adhesive Ihrough which the medication diffuses. Again, a plurality of through holes are formed completel,v through lo the adhesive and, optionally, through the adhesive Is well. An applicator Cont~ining the solvent can be placed in direct contact with the top of the electrode or the top of the transdermal patch. In this manner, the solvent can be directed through the through holes formed in either the electrode or the patch t~ r '~ llL. l to facilitate its removal.
g. ~ ~ /2~/q 7 BRIEF DESCRIPIION OF THE DRAWINGS
Fig. 1 is a cross-sectional side view of an electrode in accordance with a first exemplary embodiment of the present invention;
Fig. 2 is a bottom view of the electrode shown in Fig. 1;
Fig. 3A is a cross-sectional side view illustrating the use of an applicator to facilitate electrode removal in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present irlvention;
Fi.g. 3B is a cross-sectional side view illustrating the use of an applicator to5 facilitate electrode removal in accordance with another exemplary embodiment of the present invention;
Fi.g. 4A is a cross-sectional top view illustrating the use of an applicator to facilitate electrode removal in accordance with another exemplary embodiment of the prese:nt invention;
Fig. 4B is a cross-section~l side view illustrating the use of the applicator shown in Fig. 4A to facilitate electrode removal in accordance with the present invention;
Fi'g. 5A is a cross-sectionai side view similar to that shown in Fig. 3B which illustrates the use of an applicator _ont~ining an alcohol gel to facilitate the removal of a permeable electrode coated ~ith sodium chloride or potassium chloride in accordance with another exemplar, -mbodiment of the present invention;
Fig. 5B is a cross-sectional side view similar to that shown in Fig. 4B which illustrates the use of an applicalor .om~iningr an alcohol gel to facilitate the removal of a permeable electrode coated with sodium chloride or potassium chloride in accordance with another exemplar~ embodiment of the present invention;
Fig 6A is a cross-sectional side view illustrating the use of an applicator to 0 facilitate electrode removal in accordance with another exemplary embodiment of the present invention;
Fig. 6B is a cross-sectional side view illustrating the use of an applicator to facilitate e:lectrode removal in accordance with another exemplary embodiment ofthe present invention;
Fig. 6C is a front plar~r view illustrating an embodiment of the applicator shown in Fig. 6B for facilit~ting -lectrode removal in accordance with the present invention;
Fig. 6D is a front planar view illustrating another embodiment of the applicator shown in Fig. 6B for facilitatirlg electrode removal in accordance with the presen.t invention; and Fig 7 is a cross sectional ,ide view of a transdermal patch in accordance with an exemplary embodiment or the present invention.
DET.~ILED DESCRIPTION
The present invention relales IO the use of medical devices having through holes or permeable members (such as electrodes and transdermal patches) which are 5 attached with adhesive to a pa~iem's skin. By applying a solvent through the through holes or permeable members, the adhesive is dissolved or neutralized andremoval of the m~ l device from the patient's skin is facilitated.
A first embodiment of the present invention is shown in Fig. 1. Fig. 1 is a cross-sectional side view (nol drawn to scale) of a medical electrode 1 in o accordance with an exemplarv embodiment of the present invention. The medical electrode 1 shown in Fig. 1 is used to make electrical contact between the patient's skin 11 and an approp~iate device 10 used for acquisition of medical data (e.g., an ECG or lhe like). Eyelel 13 is embedded in planar member 15 which, preferably, is made of a flexible material such as foam polymer. A label 16 typically is placed on the top of planar member 1~. Stud 14 is in contact with eyelet 13 and engagesflange 1~ to sandwich planar member 15 and label 16 thereby securing stud 14 in place. Electrical wires are attached between stud 14 and the medical data acquisition device 10. Electrode 1 includes an electrically conductive adhesive 12 which covers eyelet 13 and is placed on the side of planar member 15 which faces20 skin 11 of a patient. The elec~rically conductive adhesive 12 assures that electrode 1 is held in place on the patiem's skin 11. In this way, the required electricalconductivity between the patiem's skin 11 and eyelet 13 is obtained.
I'hrough holes 17 are also formed in electrode 1. As shown in Fig. 2, holes 17 are forrned in multiple locations throughout planar member 15. Also, as shown25 in Fig. 1, these through holes mav be formed through conductive adhesive 12 (although this is not required for some applications). The size, shape, and number GCC-2391~ - 8 - PATENT
of holes depend on numerous faclors. including the size of the electrode and thematerial and thickness of ~he adhesi~e. The size of the holes typically ranges between 0 1 to 10 mrn in diame~er. lhe number of holes typically ranges between 4 to 100. The greater the number OI holes or the greater the size of the holes, the easier it is for the solvent to reach ~e adhesive and dissolve or_neutralize the o m ~ ~/2~/~7 ~.~ ,Z/2~/~7 adhesive. It is also desirable. ho~ever, to~ the number and size of the hole4.
to assure that there is adequate adhesion between the electrode and the patient's shn.
It rnay be desirable, given a certain sized electrode, to vary the number and lo size of holes until an applopliate level of adhesion and removal ease is obtained.
The invem:ors have found, for e.~mple, for a 40 rnm diameter electrode, a total of 25 holes of 0.3 mm diameter ~re ~esirable. Although an increased number of holeswill facilitate t'he removal of ~he ~dhesive, it is understood that the applicator of the present invention is not limited for use with electrodes having any specified number of holes. As will be readily reco~nized by those having ordinary skill, the present invention may be used with elec~odes such as the neonatal Model 1801 PELLET
FOAM~ electrode having four through-holes and manllfartured by Graphic Controls C'orporation, Buffalo~ ~Y.
Typical materials for the adhesive are described, for example, in U.S.
Patent No. 5,124,076. The adhesive is of sufficient thickness to adhere the electrode l:O the patient's skin (t~pically 0.2 - 0.5 mm). Each of these numbers is desirably selected to assure tha~ rhe holes do not interfere with the mechanical and electrical properties of the electrode.
Shown in Figs. 3A and ~B Is an applicator 20 comprising absorbent dispensing material 21 which contains a solvent or adhesive-neutralizing material.
Dispensing material 21 may comprise a sponge or cloth material such as felt, cotton, a non-woven material (e.g.. Rayon), or foam which is saturated with a solvent (e.g., isopropyl alcohol. acelone, or water) or other adhesive-neutralizing material. Dispensing material '1 is partly surrounded with a thin, flexible, plastic layer 22. As shown in Fig 3A. bv placing the applicator on the top of the electrode 1 and applying pressure m the direction of arrow R on tlne top of the 5 applicator, the user forces the soivent or adhesive-neutralizing material uniformly and with proper pressure through holes 17 of planar member 15. In this manner, the solven.t or adhesive-neutralizing material is placed in contact with the adhesive 12 and, if through holes 17 extend through the adhesive 12, as shown, placed at the interface between adhesive 1~ and skin 24.
As shown in Fig. 3B. the applicator may also be used in conjunction with a permeable electrode 2 having conductive adhesive 12 and permeable member 3.
Permeable member 3 permits the solvent or a&esive-neutralizing material to penetrate through to adhesive 1~ thus elimin~ting the need for through holes to achieve painless electrode remo~-al from a patient's skin 24. Any electrode having 15 a perrneable material which permits penetration by the solvent or adhesive-neutralizi]lg material may be used with applicator 20. Such permeable materials may preferably include, but are nol limited to, cloth materials such as felt, cotton, a non-woven material (e.g., Rayon!. foam, or GORE-TEX~ expanded fiber materials. GORE-TEX~ e~panded fiber materials are available from W.L. Gore 20 and Associates, Newark, DE. To avoid evaporation of the solvent from dispensing material 21, applicator 20 is desirably kept in a sealed plastic bag when not in use.
Sh.own in Figs. 4A and lB is applicator 50 in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention which provides for easy and painless removalof permeable electrodes 2 having permeable substrates from the skin. Applicator 25 50 comprises absorbent dispensing material 51 which contains a solvent or adhesive-neutralizing material. The dispensing material 51 is placed in box 52 and may comprise a sponge or cloth material such as felt, cotton, a non-woven material GCC-23~,10 - 10- PATENT
(e.g., Rayon), or foam which is saturated with a solvent (e.g., isopropyl alcohol, acetone, or water) or otner adhesi~e-neutralizing material. The bottom 59 and sides 60 of box 52 are made of a rigid material such as a thin metal (e.g., al--minllm), or a rigid pla,stic material which, prererably, is moldable (e.g., polypropylene or5 ABS). The top 53 of box 52 is a membrane made of a flexible material such as athin elastic rubber or silicon rubber. Located in the bottom 59 of box 52 is an opening 54 which is larger than the permeable electrode 2 to be removed. The bottom 551 of box 52 also includes an extension 55 having a wedge 56.
The procedure for removing permeable electrode 2 from the skin 58 of a o patient is as follows. First, opening 54 of applicator 50 is placed over permeable electrode 2 as shown in Fig. ~B. ~e.YI, the membrane of top 53 is pushed downwarcl in the direction of arrow D. The applied pressure presses the solvent or adhesive-lleutralizing material from dispensing material 51 uniformly and with proper pressure into and through permeable member 3 of permeable electrode 2 andacts to weaken adhesive 12 underneath. Upon lifting applicator 50, wedge 56 is then used to "shave off" electrode 2 from a patient's skin 58. The rigid structure of applicator 50 allows the applicalor to be held by hand.
Shown in Figs. 5A and 5B are applicators 80 and 90, respectively, in accordance with additional exemplarv embodiments of the present invention which 20 may be used in conjunction with permeable electrodes 82 and 92, respectively.Permeable electrodes 82 and 92 have permeable members 83 and 93, respectively, which are made preferably of clo~h. The permeable members 83 and 93 are treated by applying sodium chloride or potassium chloride, preferably, either during themanufacture of the electrode or imrnediately before removing the electrode from the 25 skin with the applicator. Fig. 5.~ ,hows applicator 80 which corresponds substantially to applicator ~0 shown in Fig. 3B but with alcohol gel 81 replacing dispensing material 21. Fig. 5B shows applicator 90 which corresponds GCC-239() - 11 - PATENT
substantial]y to applicator 50 shown in Fig. 4B but with alcohol gel 91 replacing dispensing material 51. Alcohol gels 81 and 91 are exposed along the surfaces ofapplicators 80 and 90, respectively. which contact permeable members 83 and 93 upon applying pressure in the direction of arrows P as shown in Figs. 5A and 5B.5 Upon contact with the sodium or potassium chloride contained in permeable members 83 and 93, the respective alcohol gels 81 and 91 liquefy. T'ne liquefiedportion of alcohol gels 81 and 91 then penetrate through permeable members 83 and 93 to contaLct and weaken the conductive adhesive 12, thereby facilit~ting removal of permeable electrodes 82 and 92 from a patient's skin. By applying alcohol gelo 81 and 91 to permeable electrodes trealed in this manner, the sodium or potassium chloride contained in the treated electrode upon contact with the alcohol gel only liquefies that amount of alcohol gel required to convert the salt such that the applicators 80 and 90 can be removed and stored until needed again.
Shown in Figs. 6A and 6B are applicators 68 in accordance with another exemplary embodiment of the present invention which may be used in conjunction with permeable electrodes, preferably of cloth, which have been treated with sodium ch]oride or potassium chloride. The removal process is illustrated in Figs.
6A and 6B, in which upon applying pressure in the direction of arrows A and B, alcohol gel 61 is dispensed in the direction of arrow C for application to a treated cloth electrode (not shown) to weaken the electrode adhesive after which the electrode may be easily removed from a patient's skin. The electrodes are treated by applying sodium chloride or potassium chloride to the surface of the electrode, preferably either during the ma~nufacture of the electrode or immediately beforeremoving it from the skin with the applicator. By applying alcohol gel 61 to thepermeable electrodes treated in this manner, the sodium or potassium chloride contained in the treated electrode liquefies the alcohol gel upon contact and perrnits GCC-~390 - 12- PATENT
the liquid lo penetrate through the ?ermeable electrode to weaken the electrode adhesive, thereby facilitating resnoval of the permeable electrode from a patient's skin.
Such permeable electrodes capable of being used with applicator 68 include 5 permeable electrodes 82 and 9'2, ~icc~lcse~ above, but it is understood that any electrode having a perrneable material such as cloth which permits the penetration by the liquefied alcohol may also be used. Such permeable materials may include,but are not limited to, felt, cotton. a non-woven material (e.g., Rayon), foarn, or GORE-TEX~ expanded fiber mate-ials. GORE-TEX~ expanded fiber materials are 10 available from W.L. Gore and .~ssociates, Newark, DE. The applicator 68 shownin Figs. 6A and 6B may be corlstructed from a thin tube 62 which is similar in construction to a toothpaste tube and made of a material which is squeezable andselected to provide the desired fle:~ing~ characteristics. For example, a deformable material such as al--min~m is preferred if it is desired that tube 62 remain in a 5 collapsed condition after sque~7ing. On the other hand, a resilient material such as plastic is preferred if it is desired ~hal tube 62 return to and substantially retain its original shape after sq~lee7ing. Tube 62 is filled with an alcohol gel 61 which preferably contains about 75Ga to 100~ alcohol by volume. Tube 62 is closed at one end by a stopper 67 and has an opening 63 at the opposite end for dispensing20 the alcohol gel 61. The opening of the tube may be formed into a taper 64 as shown in Fig. 6B which may include a slit 65 (as shown in Fig. 6C) or a plurality of holes 66 (as shown in Fig. 6D). B,v moving the applicator 68 along the top ofthe electrode and squeezing the tube 62 in the direction of arrows A and B, alcohol gel 61 can be distributed on the surface of a permeable electrode in a controlled 25 manner.
Fig. 7 illustrates an exemplar,v embodiment of the present invention with regard to transdermal patches. In Fig. 7, a side cross sectional view (not drawn to GCC-23'~0 - 13- PATENT
scale) of transdermal patch 30 is shown. Transdermal patch 30 includes layer 35 in which thLe medicine to be ~-lminictered to the patient is located. As with electrode 1 shown in Fig. 3A, an adhesive 32. which need not be conductive, is shown in Fig.7 which rn:~int~ins transdermal palch 30 in contact with the patient's skin 31. The medicine diffuses from layer 35 through adhesive 32 and imo the patient's skin 31.
Again, a desirable number of through holes 37 are formed in transdermal patch 30.
Again, th.e holes may optionally e.~ctend through adhesive 32 if desired. Removal of transdermal patch 30 is accomplished by applying an applopliate solvent or adhesive-neutralizing material through the through holes 37 to dissolve or neutralize adhesive 32 at the adhesive-skin interference. An applicator such as applicator 20 shown in Fig. 3A may be used in a similar manner to the manner in which applicator 20 is used to remove a medical electrode.
It is understood that the invention may be used to remove any devices having a permeable structure or construction in conjunction with an adhesive. It is also understood that the invention may be applied to numerous types of transderrnal patches including battery-powere patches which use such techniques as iontopheresis for delivering the mediicine to the patient. Although the invention has been described in terms of exemplarv embodiments, it is contemplated that it maybe practiced as outlined above with modifications within the spirit and scope of the appendedi claims.
Claims (29)
1. Apparatus for biomedical monitoring of a patient, comprising:
a) an electrode including:
a flexible member including a plurality of through holes extending through said flexible member;
an electrically conductive member embedded in said flexible member and adapted for electrical contact with said patient;
a layer of electrically conductive adhesive applied to at least one of said conductive member and said flexible member on a side facing said patient; and b) an electrode removal apparatus including:
a solution including one of a solvent and an adhesive-neutralizing material;
a non-permeable member surrounding said solution;
wherein said electrode removal apparatus is placed above said electrode to enable said solution to penetrate said through holes to facilitate removal of said electrode from said patient.
a) an electrode including:
a flexible member including a plurality of through holes extending through said flexible member;
an electrically conductive member embedded in said flexible member and adapted for electrical contact with said patient;
a layer of electrically conductive adhesive applied to at least one of said conductive member and said flexible member on a side facing said patient; and b) an electrode removal apparatus including:
a solution including one of a solvent and an adhesive-neutralizing material;
a non-permeable member surrounding said solution;
wherein said electrode removal apparatus is placed above said electrode to enable said solution to penetrate said through holes to facilitate removal of said electrode from said patient.
2. Apparatus for biomedical monitoring according to claim 1, wherein said plurality of through holes are also formed in said adhesive and extend through said adhesive.
3. Apparatus for biomedical monitoring according to claim 1, wherein said electrode removal apparatus further comprises an absorbent dispensing material with said solution saturated therein.
4. Apparatus for biomedical monitoring according to claim 3, wherein said non-permeable member includes a rigid member surrounding said absorbent dispensing material and a flexible member which is depressable to cause said solution to flow out of said absorbent material.
5. Apparatus for biomedical monitoring according to claim 1, further comprising a wedge coupled to said non-permeable member for pushing saidelectrode off said patient.
6. Apparatus for biomedical monitoring according to claim 1, wherein said solution includes an alcohol solvent.
7. Apparatus for biomedical monitoring according to claim 1, wherein said flexible member is a cloth.
8. Apparatus for biomedical monitoring of a patient, comprising:
a) an electrode including:
a flexible permeable member;
an electrically conductive member embedded in said flexible permeable member and adapted for electrical contact with said patient;
a layer of electrically conductive adhesive applied to at least one of said conductive member and said flexible permeable member on a side facing said patient; and b) an electrode removal apparatus including:
a solution including one of a solvent and an adhesive-neutralizing material;
a non-permeable member surrounding said solution;
wherein said electrode removal apparatus is placed above said electrode to enable said solution to penetrate said flexible permeable member to facilitate removal of said electrode from said patient.
a) an electrode including:
a flexible permeable member;
an electrically conductive member embedded in said flexible permeable member and adapted for electrical contact with said patient;
a layer of electrically conductive adhesive applied to at least one of said conductive member and said flexible permeable member on a side facing said patient; and b) an electrode removal apparatus including:
a solution including one of a solvent and an adhesive-neutralizing material;
a non-permeable member surrounding said solution;
wherein said electrode removal apparatus is placed above said electrode to enable said solution to penetrate said flexible permeable member to facilitate removal of said electrode from said patient.
9. Apparatus for biomedical monitoring according to claim 8, wherein said electrode removal apparatus further comprises an absorbent dispensing material with said solution saturated therein.
10. Apparatus for biomedical monitoring according to claim 9, wherein said non-permeable member includes a rigid member surrounding said absorbent dispensing material and a flexible member which is depressable to cause said solution to flow out of said absorbent material.
11. Apparatus for biomedical monitoring according to claim 8, further comprising a wedge coupled to said non-permeable member for pushing saidelectrode off said patient.
12. Apparatus for biomedical monitoring according to claim 8, wherein said solution includes an alcohol solvent.
13. Apparatus for biomedical monitoring according to claim 8, wherein said flexible permeable member is a cloth.
14. Apparatus for biomedical monitoring of a patient, comprising:
(a) an electrode including:
a flexible permeable member, an electrically conductive member, a salt layer applied to said flexible permeable member, and a layer of electrically conductive adhesive; and (b) a dispenser including an alcohol gel;
wherein said alcohol gel is dispensed from said dispenser and onto said electrode to facilitate removal of said electrode from said patient.
(a) an electrode including:
a flexible permeable member, an electrically conductive member, a salt layer applied to said flexible permeable member, and a layer of electrically conductive adhesive; and (b) a dispenser including an alcohol gel;
wherein said alcohol gel is dispensed from said dispenser and onto said electrode to facilitate removal of said electrode from said patient.
15. Apparatus for biomedical monitoring according to claim 14, wherein said dispenser further comprises a non-permeable member surrounding saidalcohol gel.
16. Apparatus for biomedical monitoring according to claim 15, further comprising a wedge coupled to said non-permeable member for pushing saidelectrode off said patient.
17. Apparatus for biomedical monitoring according to claim 14, wherein said dispenser further comprises a rigid member surrounding said alcoholgel and a flexible member which is depressable to cause said alcohol gel to contact said flexible permeable membrane of said electrode.
18. Apparatus for biomedical monitoring according to claim 17, further comprising a wedge coupled to said rigid member for pushing said electrode off said patient.
19. Apparatus for biomedical monitoring according to claim 14, wherein said dispenser is an applicator comprising a tube.
20. Apparatus for biomedical monitoring according to claim 19, wherein said tube is made of a deformable material.
21. Apparatus for biomedical monitoring according to claim 20, wherein said deformable material comprises aluminum.
22. Apparatus for biomedical monitoring according to claim 19, wherein said tube is made of a resilient material.
23. Apparatus for biomedical monitoring according to claim 22, wherein said resilient material is plastic.
24. A biomedical electrode, comprising:
a flexible permeable member;
an electrically conductive member;
a layer of electrically conductive adhesive; and a salt layer applied to said flexible permeable member wherein said salt layer releases said adhesive upon activation.
a flexible permeable member;
an electrically conductive member;
a layer of electrically conductive adhesive; and a salt layer applied to said flexible permeable member wherein said salt layer releases said adhesive upon activation.
25. A transdermal patch for attachment to a patient, comprising:
a flexible member adapted for application of a medication to be administered to said patient through said skin of said patient;
an adhesive for attaching said flexible member to said skin of said patient; and a plurality or through holes included in said flexible member and extending through said flexible member.
a flexible member adapted for application of a medication to be administered to said patient through said skin of said patient;
an adhesive for attaching said flexible member to said skin of said patient; and a plurality or through holes included in said flexible member and extending through said flexible member.
26. A transdermal patch according to claim 25, wherein said plurality of through holes are also formed in said adhesive and extend through said adhesive.
27. A method or attaching a transdermal patch to the skin of a patient and subsequently removing said patch, comprising the steps of:
a) attaching said patch to the skin of said patient using an adhesive;
b) allowing medicine delivered by said patch to be administered to said patient;
c) introducing a solvent through a plurality of through holes formed in said patch to release said adhesive; and d) removing said patch.
a) attaching said patch to the skin of said patient using an adhesive;
b) allowing medicine delivered by said patch to be administered to said patient;
c) introducing a solvent through a plurality of through holes formed in said patch to release said adhesive; and d) removing said patch.
28. A method of attaching a transdermal patch according to claim 27, wherein said plurality of through holes are also formed in said adhesive andextend through said adhesive.
29. A method of removing an electrode from a patient, comprising the steps of:
dispensing alcohol gel onto said electrode; and separating said electrode from said patient.
dispensing alcohol gel onto said electrode; and separating said electrode from said patient.
Applications Claiming Priority (2)
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| US08/813,002 US5848966A (en) | 1997-03-04 | 1997-03-04 | Medical device easily removed from skin and a method of removal therefrom |
| US08/813,002 | 1997-04-04 |
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| CA2228163A1 true CA2228163A1 (en) | 1998-10-04 |
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| CA002228163A Abandoned CA2228163A1 (en) | 1997-03-04 | 1998-01-27 | Medical device easily removed from skin and a method of removal therefrom |
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| JP2818075B2 (en) * | 1992-05-27 | 1998-10-30 | 久光製薬株式会社 | Interface for iontophoresis |
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-
1997
- 1997-03-04 US US08/813,002 patent/US5848966A/en not_active Expired - Lifetime
-
1998
- 1998-01-23 US US09/012,705 patent/US5961484A/en not_active Expired - Lifetime
- 1998-01-27 CA CA002228163A patent/CA2228163A1/en not_active Abandoned
- 1998-03-03 EP EP98103713A patent/EP0862924A3/en not_active Withdrawn
Also Published As
| Publication number | Publication date |
|---|---|
| EP0862924A2 (en) | 1998-09-09 |
| EP0862924A3 (en) | 1999-09-29 |
| US5961484A (en) | 1999-10-05 |
| US5848966A (en) | 1998-12-15 |
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Legal Events
| Date | Code | Title | Description |
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| FZDE | Dead |