The present invention relates to a medical device including a collection pouch such as an ostomy, wound care or similar pouch and, more particularly, to a pouch with multiple odor absorbing vent filters.
Certain types of abdominal surgery, such as colostomies, ileostomies and urostomies result in an opening in the abdominal wall, known as a stoma, through which waste is discharged. Since the patient has no control over the waste discharge, a device including a waste collection receptacle or pouch is utilized in order to protect the stoma and collect the waste as it is discharged. Similarly, wound irrigation and other medical procedures require the use of devices which include collection receptacles or pouches in various forms.
Many different types of collection receptacles are known. In general, they include a thin walled pouch or bag which is affixed to the body surrounding the wound or stoma. The pouch or bag collects solid, semisolid and gaseous waste. Because the pouch is closed, the accumulation of gas within the pouch may become a problem. It can cause a distension of the pouch which may be distressing and/or embarrassing to the patient. However, the release of the gas may result in an odor which can be unpleasant and embarrassing as well.
In order to overcome the problem of gas buildup within the pouch, it has been suggested that the pouch be provided with a tortuous path vent. It has also been suggested that a deodorizing filter be used within the vent.