Breast and Abdominal Inspection Gown

This application claims the benefit of U.S. Application Ser. No. 63/660,056, “Breast and Abdominal Inspection Gown,” filed by Mathew Strode on Jun. 14, 2024.

This application incorporates the entire contents of the foregoing applications herein by reference.

Various embodiments relate generally to medical gowns and medical procedures.

Breasts may be regarded as key components in mammalian anatomy, primarily facilitating breastfeeding. Breasts contribute to body symmetry and are considered important in biological terms. Breasts may vary widely in size and shape, influencing aspects like posture and physical comfort.

Abdominals may serve as the foundation for core strength, crucial for overall body stability and health. Abdominals may impact posture significantly, enhancing both appearance and physical functionality. Strong abdominals may support the lower back, reducing the risk of injuries.

Surgical gowns may be important for maintaining sterility in medical environments. These gowns may be designed to resist fluids, reducing the risk of contamination during procedures. Moreover, surgical gowns may come in various sizes and materials to ensure comfort and functionality for healthcare professionals.

Apparatus and associated methods relate to a hospital gown designed for breast and abdominal examinations. In an illustrative example, the gown includes a first aperture and a second aperture conforming to the breast region. The first aperture may, for example, circumscribe a patient's left breast area, while the second aperture may, for example, circumscribe a patient's right breast area. The gown includes a first flap and a second flap. The first flap may, for example, be releasably coupled to the first aperture by at least one releasable coupler such as snaps or buttons, and the second flap may, for example, be releasably coupled to the second aperture by at least one releasable coupler. Various embodiments may advantageously be configured for selective exposure during examinations, enhancing patient comfort while providing necessary access for medical procedures.

Various embodiments may achieve one or more advantages. For example, some embodiments may facilitate easier and more respectful examinations by allowing health professionals to access only the necessary areas without fully undressing the patient. Some embodiments, may, for example, improve concealment during surgical operations. This may enhance patient comfort and preserve dignity during potentially vulnerable situations. Additionally, the releasable couplers may, for example, be positioned along the circumference of the flaps, which may include opposing couplers to the couplers of the flaps, providing a secure yet easily modifiable fit that can adapt to different patient sizes and needs.

The details of various embodiments are set forth in the accompanying drawings and the description below. Other features and advantages will be apparent from the description and drawings, and from the claims.

To aid understanding, this document is organized as follows: First, to help introduce discussion of various embodiments, a breast and abdominal inspection gown system is introduced with reference to.

depicts an exemplary breast and abdominal inspection gown employed in an illustrative use-case scenario. The illustrative use-case scenarioincludes a user. The useris wearing an exemplary breast and abdominal inspection gown. The breast and abdominal inspection gowninclude a split at the lower region of the gown. The split may, for example, allow a user to walk more easily in the gown. The exemplary breast and abdominal inspection gownis depicted in a covered modeA. The breast and abdominal inspection gownmay, for example, includes a lacing. The lacing may, for example, allow a user to advantageously secure the gown to the user. The breast and abdominal inspection gowninclude a lower abdominal flap. The lower abdominal flap includes a releasable fastener. The releasable fastener may, for example, include a button. The releasable fastener may, for example, include a hook & loop device. The releasable fastener may, for example, include ties. The releasable fastener may, for example, include snaps. The lower abdominal flap may, for example, be secured by fastening the fastener. The lower abdominal flap may, for example, be opened by a doctor and/or a nurse during a routine medical procedure. The inspection gownincludes an upper breast flap. The inspection gownincludes releasable fasteners. The inspection gownincludes a front surfaceconfigured to cover a user's legs. The upper abdominal flapincludes a zipper. The zippermay, for example, operate on a predetermined pathbisecting the inspection gown. The exemplary breast and abdominal inspection gownis depicted in an inspection modeIn the inspection mode a medical profession may, for example, inspect the left or right side, top left or top right side, or bottom right or bottom left side while covering the opposing side or top or bottom portion configured for concealment. The gown may, for example, be unzipped to have access to only half of the chest area, allowing the doctor and/or nurse to access the region to be treated without revealing the complete body. The abdominal inspection gownincludes a neck flatallowing a doctor and/or nurse access to the neck and/or upper breast while allow the doctor and/or nurse to cover the lower portion of the breast.

In some embodiments,illustrates a use-case scenario where a patient is wearing the inspection gown in a clinical setting. Some gown embodiments includes a split hem at the lower portion to enable walking without resistance. In some embodiments, this split may feature reinforced stitching or a triangular gusset to maintain durability. The lacing shown may, for example, be replaced with side ties or elasticized bands in alternate configurations to allow easier adjustment. In some embodiments, the lower abdominal flap includes a releasable fastener that may be engaged during non-invasive abdominal exams. In some embodiments, this fastener may be color-matched to the gown to create a seamless appearance.

In some embodiments, the upper breast flapmay be partially opened via zipperrunning along a central access path. This zipper may, for example, be covered with a flap or placket to maintain modesty when not in use. The flap design may allow clinicians to access either breast individually without exposing the full chest. In some embodiments, a neck flapmay provide upper chest access while still keeping the lower breast area covered. This configuration may be useful for listening to heart or lung sounds while maintaining as much coverage as possible. The gown design inmay, for example, promote efficient clinical workflow by enabling selective access points.

In some embodiments, the gownmay be made from a low-friction, breathable fabric to facilitate patient repositioning on exam tables or during imaging procedures. The inspection gown may, for example, include pre-folded seams to allow compact storage without wrinkling. In some embodiments, ties and fasteners may be placed only on one side of the gown to simplify donning for patients with limited mobility or post-surgical restrictions. The usermay experience improved comfort due to strategically placed seams and soft interior finishes. In some embodiments, additional gown variations may include versions for pediatric, bariatric, or maternity use with corresponding adjustments to fastener placement and flap dimensions. The layout shown inmay, for example, serve as a standard configuration adaptable across multiple patient types.

depicts a front view of an exemplary breast and abdominal inspection gown. The gown includes a unitary sleeve and body construction, which may improve comfort and fit while simplifying manufacturing. Breast apertures are covered by chest flap, which provides access to the patient's breasts for examination. The chest flapmay include a hidden zipper or other releasable fastener located at the center of the flap to allow one breast to be exposed at a time. In some embodiments, the fastener may include snaps, buttons, or hook-and-loop closures. The flap may include a single-needle edgestitch along its border for clean finishing. Fastenersare positioned along the chest flap for releasable attachment. The gown includes an abdominal flap, which allows targeted access to the abdominal region, and is secured with abdominal fasteners. Stitching along the sleeveand bottom hem may utilize a double-needle foldover seam for increased durability and finish quality. A collar fasteneris positioned at the neckline to provide adjustable fit around the neck, which may include a single-needle stitch at the collar. Tiesare provided for securing the gown around the patient's torso. The gown a potential logo spoton the upper chest region for institutional branding.

In some embodiments, the gown depicted inmay include reinforced chest flapsdesigned with a hidden zipper or snap closures that allow access to one breast at a time. The closure system may, for example, include tactile or audible feedback (e.g., a snap or click) to confirm that the flap is securely closed. In some embodiments, the zipperalong the centerline may use a fabric guard to prevent skin pinching during opening or closing. The abdominal flapmay include overlapping panels that maintain coverage even when opened, improving modesty during partial examinations. The sleeve and body panelmay be cut from a single piece of material to minimize seams and reduce points of irritation. The gown fabric may, for example, include a blend of polyester and rayon for softness, durability, and breathability.

In some embodiments, fastenersmay be positioned along the breast and abdominal flaps in a staggered layout to reduce fabric strain during repeated opening and closing. Flapmay, for example, include interior labeling (e.g., “Left” or “Right”) to simplify orientation for clinical staff. In some embodiments, the collar fastenermay be a hook-and-loop closure to allow one-handed adjustment without the need for fine motor control. The potential logo spotmay be used for facility branding, patient ID stickers, or laundry tracking barcodes. In some embodiments, the abdominal fastenermay be positioned away from skin contact points to minimize patient discomfort during extended use. The split hem atmay, for example, be reinforced with a bar tack to prevent tearing during patient movement.

In some embodiments, the chest flapmay include an optional privacy liner, such as a thin inner flap that remains in place when the outer flap is opened, to provide added modesty. The vertical zippermay, for example, be a low-profile coil zipper to reduce bulk and improve flexibility. In some embodiments, the lacingon the sides or back may be replaced with adjustable elastic to improve ease of dressing while maintaining a snug fit. The bottom hem and sleeves may feature double-needle foldover stitchingto increase the gown's durability through laundering cycles. In some embodiments, the gown fabric may be treated with a fluid-resistant coating to reduce the risk of soak-through during procedures. The abdominal flapmay, for example, have a contoured shape to better follow body curves and minimize bunching during seated exams.

depicts a rear viewof the breast and abdominal inspection gown. A neck flapis included at the upper rear portion to allow partial access while maintaining coverage. The back design emphasizes simplicity and coverage, with closure features to support secure and comfortable wear for various patient sizes. The rear configuration may assist healthcare personnel in dressing and undressing the patient efficiently.

In some embodiments, the rear viewof the gown may feature wide rear coverage to ensure modesty while the patient is seated or reclining. Rear tiesmay, for example, be positioned at two or more vertical points to create a more secure closure across the upper and mid-back. In some embodiments, the ties may be designed with extended pull-tabs to allow easier fastening by caregivers wearing gloves. The neckline flapmay include soft binding or bias tape to reduce skin irritation at the collar area. In some embodiments, a loop at the neck area may be included to facilitate hanging or storage on hooks when not in use. The gown material along the back may, for example, be made from a breathable knit to improve comfort during prolonged wear.

In some embodiments, the gown's rear panel may include a pleat or gusset to allow greater freedom of movement, particularly for patients undergoing physical exams or therapy. The rear viewmay, for example, include a central seam reinforced with bar tacking at stress points to reduce tearing. In some embodiments, the neckline closuremay use hook-and-loop fasteners or snap buttons, depending on the setting (e.g., emergency vs. outpatient). The back panel may include optional size markers sewn into the interior for easy identification in laundry services. In some embodiments, a rear slit may be integrated toward the lower back to accommodate movement or access to back-based medical devices. The gown may, for example, include a privacy panel or overlapping flap construction to reduce the risk of unintended exposure.

In some embodiments, the rear gown portionmay be fabricated using a slightly more flexible material than the front to aid in stretch and fit across varied patient body types. Tiesmay, for example, be replaced with wide fabric straps secured by hook-and-loop closures to improve donning efficiency for patients with limited mobility. In some embodiments, the rear section may feature a color-coded tag system to indicate gown size or orientation. The neck flapmay serve as a closure shield, covering the upper fastener to reduce chafing. In some embodiments, the gown may include rear pass-through ports or openings to accommodate medical lines, such as for epidurals or monitors. The fabric of the rear panel may, for example, include an antimicrobial finish to reduce surface contamination during extended wear.

depicts a rear perspective view of an exemplary open-back breast and abdominal inspection gown. The gown includes an open-back gown portion, which facilitates easy donning and doffing while allowing access for procedures. A tieis positioned at the back to secure the gown in place. This configuration supports both patient comfort and healthcare provider convenience, especially in examination or surgical contexts where quick removal or adjustment of the gown may be necessary.

In some embodiments, the side view of the gownillustrates an open-back configuration, which may enhance airflow and access during procedures while maintaining coverage with overlapping fabric. The side seams may, for example, include additional stitching or reinforcement in high-stress areas to prevent fraying or tearing. In some embodiments, the gown may incorporate angled side vents to allow placement of medical devices such as stethoscopes or leads without full gown removal. The armhole may be shaped with a curved cut to reduce chafing and accommodate a natural range of motion. In some embodiments, the gown side may feature a belt loop or tie guide to ensure the rear tiestays aligned and in place during use. The shoulder seammay, for example, be finished with a flatlock stitch for improved comfort when lying on an exam table.

In some embodiments, the gown's open-back portionmay be layered to allow overlapping coverage even when one layer is lifted or adjusted. The tiemay, for example, be located slightly below the waistline to distribute pressure away from the spine and improve sitting comfort. In some embodiments, the side of the gown may include an access slit to support side-entry imaging equipment like ultrasound probes. The side profile may help highlight the ergonomic shaping of the gown around the torso, providing coverage without bulk. In some embodiments, the side panel of the gown may be shaped to avoid bunching under the arm during arm movement. The gown may, for example, include a flexible insert at the side seam to allow stretch without distorting the gown's structure.

In some embodiments, the side view may feature a stitched channel to pass monitoring wires discreetly from the front to the back of the gown. Tiemay, for example, be constructed of a low-friction woven material to minimize snagging on furniture or medical equipment. In some embodiments, the gown's design may incorporate vertical side darts to create a more tailored fit without sacrificing ease of access. The open-back sectionmay include foldover flaps to maintain modesty when the patient is reclining. In some embodiments, a narrow elastic panel may be sewn into the side to allow expansion with patient breathing. The shoulder seammay, for example, be padded slightly to improve patient comfort during extended stays on firm surfaces.

In some embodiments, the breast and abdominal inspection gown may be designed to maximize patient modesty and privacy by utilizing an adaptable panel system, which may only expose specific areas as needed by the surgeon. For instance, individual panels may be unfolded or removed according to the specific needs of a procedure, allowing access to various body parts while keeping other areas concealed. This may be particularly beneficial in multi-phase surgeries or examinations where only certain body parts need to be accessed at different times.

In some embodiments, the breast and abdominal inspection gown may feature layered flaps that may be selectively opened or closed using a sliding mechanism, which may allow the surgeon to access only the necessary regions of the body. This design may prevent unnecessary exposure, thus respecting patient privacy while still providing the necessary access for medical procedures.

In some embodiments, the breast and abdominal inspection gown may incorporate color-coded edges on each panel or flap, which may correspond to different body regions. This may assist the surgical team in quickly identifying the correct panels to adjust for accessing required areas, thereby reducing preparation and ensuring targeted exposure.

In some embodiments, the breast and abdominal inspection gown may feature a reversible design, where each side of the gown provides different configurations of openings and closures. This may allow the gown to be used for various types of procedures by simply flipping it over, providing flexible options for access while maintaining patient coverage.

In some embodiments, the breast and abdominal inspection gown may be equipped with biodegradable seals on each of the adjustable panels, which may be broken only when access is needed. This feature may ensure that only the necessary areas are exposed and can serve as a visual indicator of sterility for each section before the procedure begins. This may help in maintaining the integrity and cleanliness of the operational field throughout the procedure.

In some embodiments, the gown may feature panels and flaps designed to provide essential access while maintaining patient privacy, essential for medical examinations. Snaps and ties are strategically placed to allow adjustments for different body sizes or specific medical needs. These adjustments in the breast and abdominal inspection gown may enable a customized fit, enhancing comfort and functionality during use. The back view of the gown emphasizes simplicity in design while still providing adequate coverage and ease of access.

Some embodiments may, for example, include loop tags that may be used for better size adjustment. Double needle-folded hems are shown, which may increase the gown's durability and ensure patient comfort during wear. The abdominal flap feature in the breast and abdominal inspection gown may allow for easy access to medical professionals while keeping other areas covered. Rear ties and adjustable neck closures are depicted, which may provide a secure and flexible fit. These elements of the breast and abdominal inspection gown may be essential for accommodating various patient needs and procedural requirements. This page may emphasize the importance of each component in maintaining the functionality and integrity of the gown during medical use.

Some embodiments, may, for example, include alternative configurations of panels and flaps, which can be adapted for different medical procedures, allowing for selective access to various body parts as needed. These optional placements of zippers and additional ties may be customized according to the healthcare setting's requirements, adding versatility to the gown's use. The breast and abdominal inspection gown may include reinforced areas that may enhance durability and patient safety during use. Each adjustment feature on the gown may be designed to provide maximum comfort and minimal disruption to the patient during medical examinations. This page may highlight the adaptability of the gown to meet specific medical needs while ensuring patient coverage and dignity.

Some embodiments may include a point of measurement guide for the breast and abdominal inspection gown, showing detailed locations and methods of measurement to ensure accurate sizing and fit. This guide may help manufacturers ensure that each gown is made to precise standards, which may be critical for functionality and patient comfort. The breast and abdominal inspection gown's measurements may be detailed here to guide production processes and quality control, ensuring each gown meets the necessary specifications for medical use. This detailed guidance may be essential for achieving the high standards required in medical garment manufacturing, ensuring that each gown performs well in various medical environments.

In some embodiments, the breast and abdominal inspection gown may incorporate a modular panel system that may allow specific areas of the gown to be replaced or modified according to the patient's needs. Each panel in the breast and abdominal inspection gown may be attached with a combination of zippers and Velcro, allowing for rapid customization and adaptation during various medical procedures. The modular design may provide the flexibility needed for a wide range of medical activities, ensuring that only the necessary parts of the body are exposed. This feature of the breast and abdominal inspection gown may enhance patient comfort and maintain dignity by minimizing unnecessary exposure. Moreover, the interchangeable panels may be washed or replaced individually, which may increase the gown's overall lifespan and improve hygiene. This embodiment of the breast and abdominal inspection gown may be particularly useful in busy clinical settings where quick adjustment and turnaround are crucial.

In some embodiments, the breast and abdominal inspection gown may include an integrated biometric monitoring system that may track vital signs such as heart rate, temperature, and blood pressure. Sensors embedded in the gown may continuously monitor these parameters, providing real-time data to healthcare providers. This system in the breast and abdominal inspection gown may help in early detection of potential complications during medical procedures or recovery. Additionally, the data collected by the breast and abdominal inspection gown may be wirelessly transmitted to medical staff, enhancing patient monitoring without the need for intrusive equipment. This feature may improve patient safety and allow for more precise management of care. The breast and abdominal inspection gown with biometric monitoring may be especially beneficial in surgical or intensive care settings.

In some embodiments, the breast and abdominal inspection gown may feature a photoluminescent trim that may glow in low-light conditions, ensuring that patients are visible in power outages or during nighttime in a hospital. This trim may enhance safety by making the patient more noticeable to staff in dimly lit environments. The glowing feature of the breast and abdominal inspection gown may provide a calming effect for patients, reducing anxiety during hospital stays. Additionally, the luminescent feature may be used to guide healthcare providers during emergency evacuations or power failures. The breast and abdominal inspection gown with this feature may be especially useful in large medical facilities where navigating corridors can be challenging. Overall, this embodiment of the breast and abdominal inspection gown may blend functionality with safety enhancements.

In some embodiments, the breast and abdominal inspection gown may be designed with a tear-away feature that may allow for quick removal in emergency situations. This feature may include perforated seams that can be easily torn by medical personnel to facilitate fast and safe access to the patient. The tear-away design of the breast and abdominal inspection gown may be particularly beneficial during critical care interventions where time is of the essence. Additionally, this design may help prevent further injury to the patient by allowing for a smoother and more controlled removal process. The materials used for the breast and abdominal inspection gown with the tear-away feature may be both durable under normal use and easily separable when required. This practical design approach may enhance emergency responsiveness in a hospital setting.

In some embodiments, the breast and abdominal inspection gown may utilize color-coded sections that may indicate different levels of protection or access points for medical staff. These color-coded areas may assist in training scenarios or in complex medical procedures where quick identification of access points is necessary. The colors on the breast and abdominal inspection gown may correspond to specific medical protocols, aiding in standardization and efficiency. This system may reduce errors and improve procedural times by guiding medical personnel to the correct access areas swiftly. The breast and abdominal inspection gown with color-coded sections may be particularly useful in teaching hospitals where clear visual cues can aid in educational purposes. Overall, this embodiment of the breast and abdominal inspection gown may enhance both training and operational efficiency in medical environments.

In some embodiments, the breast and abdominal inspection gown may incorporate environmentally sustainable materials that may reduce the ecological impact of disposable medical supplies. The gown may be made from biodegradable or recycled fabrics that may still meet the strict hygiene standards required for medical use. The use of sustainable materials in the breast and abdominal inspection gown may appeal to eco-conscious facilities looking to minimize their environmental footprint. Additionally, the gown may be designed for multiple uses, with a focus on easy cleaning and quick drying features that support repeated sterilization processes. This sustainable approach to the breast and abdominal inspection gown may benefit the environment and help medical facilities reduce costs associated with gown procurement. The eco-friendly design of the breast and abdominal inspection gown may represent a shift towards more responsible consumption in healthcare settings.

In some embodiments, the breast and abdominal inspection gown may include a series of adjustable waist and shoulder straps that may allow for a better fit for patients of various body sizes. These adjustable features in the breast and abdominal inspection gown may ensure that the gown remains secure and comfortable during procedures, without restricting patient movement or access needed by medical staff. The adjustable straps may be designed with a simple hook-and-loop fastener system for ease of use, ensuring quick adjustments can be made even by the patient themselves if necessary.

In some embodiments, the breast and abdominal inspection gown may be constructed with double-stitched seams that may enhance the durability and longevity of the gown. This reinforcement in the breast and abdominal inspection gown may be particularly important in high-use areas such as hospitals or clinics where gowns are frequently laundered. The double-stitched seams may prevent tearing and fabric degradation over time, ensuring that the gown maintains its integrity and protective capabilities through repeated use.

In some embodiments, the breast and abdominal inspection gown may feature a simplified closure system that may consist of a single tie at the back, making it easier for patients to don and doff the gown by themselves. This single tie closure on the breast and abdominal inspection gown may improve the efficiency of patient turnover in busy medical settings by reducing the time needed for staff assistance. Additionally, this design may enhance the gown's functionality by minimizing the potential for snags or discomfort associated with more complex closure systems.

In some embodiments, the breast and abdominal inspection gown may utilize a cuff design at the sleeves that may prevent the gown from slipping over the patient's hands during examinations or procedures. These cuffs in the breast and abdominal inspection gown may be elasticized to accommodate different wrist sizes while ensuring that the sleeves stay securely in place. This feature may be particularly useful during procedures where precise arm positioning is necessary, or when additional sterility measures are required.

In some embodiments, the breast and abdominal inspection gown may incorporate a high neckline that may offer additional coverage for patient modesty and protection. This high neckline on the breast and abdominal inspection gown may be especially appreciated in settings where patients are required to move or be in various positions during medical examinations. The additional coverage may help maintain the patient's dignity and comfort, while providing an extra layer of protection against possible fluid splashes or spills during procedures.

In some embodiments, the breast and abdominal inspection gown may be designed with a lower hemline that extends to the knees, which may provide more comprehensive coverage for patients. This extended hemline on the breast and abdominal inspection gown may offer additional warmth and modesty, particularly in cooler operating rooms or examination areas. The longer length may help prevent the gown from riding up, ensuring that the patient remains covered and comfortable throughout their medical procedure or examination.

In some embodiments of the breast and abdominal inspection gown, some types of releasable fasteners may be employed, each tailored to specific needs within medical environments. Snap fasteners on the breast and abdominal inspection gown may offer robustness and reliability, providing a secure connection that resists accidental openings due to patient movement and may be easily engaged and disengaged. Velcro fasteners on the breast and abdominal inspection gown may allow for adjustable fitting, which can be quickly altered to accommodate different patient sizes or to provide necessary access during medical procedures. Button fasteners on the breast and abdominal inspection gown may deliver a traditional closure method, appreciated for its security and ease of use, suitable for environments where more permanent closure may be necessary. Magnetic fasteners on the breast and abdominal inspection gown may provide the advantage of easy alignment and fastening without the need for direct visual or physical alignment, simplifying the process for healthcare providers, especially useful in high-stress or emergency conditions.

Although various embodiments have been described with reference to the figures, other embodiments are possible.

Although an exemplary system has been described with reference to, other implementations may be deployed in other industrial, scientific, medical, commercial, and/or residential applications.