SUMMARY
UCLA researchers in the Department of Surgery-Plastic have developed a postsurgical garment with anti-microbial and anti-edema/DVT compression can be used in surgery.
BACKGROUND
There are a vast array of post-surgical garments available on the market. Wearing these garments by patients after surgery however varies due to ease of wear, compatibility with post-surgical devices (such as drains), and post-surgical activity restrictions. Additionally, if a specific post-surgical garment is not available within a hospital system, surgeons may instruct patients to obtain their own garments. This can pose a problem as often times the garments purchased by patients were not designed to be used as a post-surgical garment. Finally, from a surgeon perspective, there can be concern for lack of hygiene around surgical sites when wearing these garments, if the garments are not frequently removed and washed.
INNOVATION
Researchers at UCLA have developed a postsurgical garment that provides adequate compression and anti-microbial properties. The garment uses a unique material and has been designed specifically to work with multiple reconstructive and cosmetic plastic surgeries while offering the patients easy on/take off. In addition, urination and post-surgical drain can be used without the need to remove the garment. The overall quality of the invention is descent for long-time usage.
POTENTIAL APPLICATIONS
ADVANTAGES
RELATED MATERIALS
STATUS OF DEVELOPMENT
The first successful demonstration with the first actual reduction to practice is done.