MX2011010458A - Improved fabric for preventing and reducing skin wounds. - Google Patents

Abstract

A fabric for the prevention and treatment of skin wounds, and pressure wounds in particular, which includes a woven fabric having warp yarns and filling yarns woven to provide a smooth fabric surface. One of the warp or filling yarns is at least about 40% by weight of the fabric of continuous filament nylon, and the other of the warp or filling yarns is from about 0% to about 60% by weight of the fabric of continuous filament polyester or nylon having non-round filament cross sections. The fabric includes a conductive yarn at about 0% to about 2% by weight to control static dissipation, and an antimicrobial substance is topically applied or inherently available in the fabric. The fabric can be used in bedding, including underpads, and patient gowns. Methods of preventing and treating skin wounds, and pressure wounds in particular, are also disclosed.

Description

IMPROVED FABRIC TO PREVENT AND REDUCE THE WOUNDS OF THE SKIN BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION The present invention relates generally to therapeutic fabrics, and more specifically, to articles including a woven fabric having antimicrobial, antistatic, wicking and drying properties advantageous, to aid in the prevention and treatment of dermatitis, skin wounds, pressure wounds and other skin problems. Medical research supporting the technology described in these applications has been published in Pediatric Dermatology, Vol. 25, No. 4, 439-433, July / August 2008, in an article entitled "Use of a Silklike Bedding Fabric in Patients with Atopic Dermatitis ", the full description of which is incorporated herein by reference. On January 25, 2007, the Food and Drug Administration of the United States granted a 5 0 (k) authorization as a Class 1 medical device (registration number K061242), the full description of which is incorporated herein as reference.

A significant portion of the world's population is afflicted with skin problems. Almost 15 million Americans have eczema, a chronic condition of the skin, marked by red patches of inflamed skin that itch. Six to seven million Americans have psoriasis, which is a skin disease that causes unsightly skin ulcers and scales. Such skin diseases make up a large portion of the annual medical costs. For example, psoriasis constitutes approximately $ 3 billion dollars a year in medical care. Of course, this does not include non-financial costs such as time spent on treatment, sleep deprivation, intractable itching, skin damage, pain, the social stigma of a visible skin disease and the inconvenience associated with treatment. , the evasion of certain clothes, use special detergents in clothing and bedding, and control environmental conditions to maintain the appropriate level of moisture of the affected skin.

Likewise, skin wounds, and in particular pressure wounds, continue to be a growing problem for medical systems around the world, which particularly concern the elderly population, bedridden, unconscious, unable to feel pain or still. Pressure wounds, also known as decubitus bedsores, are areas of localized tissue destruction, caused by compression of the soft tissue between a bony prominence and an external surface over a prolonged period of time. They develop when the blood supply to the skin is cut for more than two to three hours. As the skin dies, the pressure wound begins as a red, painful area that eventually becomes purple. Frequently, they occur in areas of the skin that are under pressure of the patient lying on the bed, sitting in a wheelchair and / or using a cast or plaster for a prolonged period of time. Common areas include the buttocks (on the sacrum or the iliac crest), or the heels of the feet. An untreated wound can open and become infected and / or extend deep into the muscle. Once a pressure wound develops, it often heals very slowly. Known methods of prevention include inspecting the skin for areas of redness (the first sign of skin breakdown), frequent laps and repositioning, providing soft pads on wheelchairs and beds to reduce pressure, and / or provide good skin care by keeping the skin clean and dry. Treatment may include removing pressure from the affected area, protecting the wound with medicated gauze or other special dressings, keeping the wound clean, transplanting healthy skin to the wound area and / or medication (ie, antibiotics to treat infections).

More than 1 million people in the U.S. they develop pressure wounds every year, approximately 7% of which are acquired in a hospital. The average cost of treating a person admitted to the hospital for pressure injuries is $ 37,288 dollars, which translates to approximately $ 2.2 to $ 3.6 billion dollars per year spent on the treatment of pressure wounds in a caring environment acute. Again, this does not take into account the physical or emotional burden on the affected person, their families and caregivers.

Moisture, friction and shear stress can cause or exacerbate skin problems, such as dermatitis, eczema, psoriasis and pressure wounds. For example, a person who has been exposed to too much moisture will have vulnerable skin. When this person moves through a thick wet surface, such as a sheet, his skin is subjected to injuries by the shear force caused by friction. Likewise, they may be injured by their clothing, or other article of bedding that is in contact with their skin, particularly where the article has increased frictional force or decreased shear strength. The problem becomes more complex to the extent that skin that has been damaged by moisture, friction and / or shear is much more likely to develop pressure-related damage, such as ulcers or pressure wounds. In addition, the probability of injury increases when the skin is in the presence of biological substances, such as urine, feces, perspiration or drainage of the wound, which may contain factors other than moisture, which irritate the skin.

Consequently, it is not only important to provide bedding and clothing with properties that prevent skin disorders, it is important that the bedding and clothes really treat the disorders that they may present on their own. Unfortunately, however, fabrics for building bedding and clothing to prevent and treat skin disorders, and pressure wounds in particular, do not predominate in the art.

Hospital linens, such as lower sheets, top sheets, and pillowcases, are generally considered by hospitals to be comfort items, as opposed to therapeutic items. Accordingly, those articles of bedding are typically constructed of a low-tech, low-cost fabric, such as conventional cotton-polyester blends. A typical conventional hospital bedding fabric, is a flat woven construction of 120 warp threads per inch and 74 threads of weft per inch, producing a fabric that is 4.12 ounces per square inch. The warp yarns are spun yarns 39/1, equivalent to a denier of 136, in a mixture of 50% cotton and 50% polyester fiber. The weft yarns are 35.6 / 1 spun yarns, equivalent to a denier of 149, in a blend of 50% cotton and 50% polyester fiber. These fabrics do not have special finishes, characteristics to handle moisture, antimicrobial properties, antistatic properties or properties to release dirt. Briefly, these are low quality bedding products, similar to those one can find at home or a hotel, and are not made to prevent or treat skin disorders.

Another article of bedding often used in a hospital is a mattress, also known as a protective mat, which provides a means to protect the mattresses of biological fluids emanating from a person in bed. They can vary from a very simple sheet of a waterproof material such as rubber, to a device with multiple layers, more complex. They can be intended for use (disposable), or they can be reusable. The lower mats intend to be placed between the lower sheet and the upper sheet of a bed, so that a person in the bed is lying directly on the mat, with the gravity that carries the biological fluids emanating to the mat. For varying degrees, this protects the bottom sheet and the mattress below. Since the mat is typically in direct contact with the patient, efforts have been made to make the mat more comfortable. For example, the rubberized mats may include eraser to come into contact with the patient, or a vinyl backing may include a quilted fabric.

As the sheets, the lower mats are considered by the hospital administration as maintenance items comfort products that aim to maintain the cleanliness of the patients and protect the furniture, at the lowest possible cost. However, in situations where patients are at risk of developing pressure wounds, comfort products are insufficient and ineffective. Research indicates that standard hospital comfort products actually exacerbate the development of wounds. Specifically, with patients dressed conventionally using conventional bedding, including lower mats, the average number of injuries per patient increased 41% between admission and discharge.

The lower mats may comprise an absorbent material that is covered with the fabric of the conventional hospital bedding discussed above. Although a mattress of this construction can effectively protect the mattress, and possibly even be relatively comfortable, it does not raise the level of being therapeutic, insofar as it does not prevent or treat skin problems, and pressure wounds. in particular.

Another example of a hospital article that is considered to be a comfort product for the detriment of patients, is the gown for the patient, also known as a hospital gown. These garments are typically constructed of cotton / polyester blends, for example, the fabric of the conventional bedding mentioned above. They are typically relatively inexpensive and easy to wash, but they do not possess properties that would actually prevent or treat skin disorders, and particularly pressure wounds.

Although most of the technological advances in the gown technique for the patient are directed toward improving patient coverage for privacy purposes, some progress has been made in treating the disease with the garments. For example, the Patent of E.U.A. 6,868,854 to Kempe, teaches a method for treating fibromyalgia with a gown that protects from radiation, and U.S. Pat. 7,003,804 from Lewis, who teaches a surgical gown with an applied skin-care agent, which sheds to the wearer.

A line of products marketed under the brand name DermaSilk ™ has applications in skin care clothing. Specifically, the DermaSilk technology has shown excellent clinical results to help cure atopic dermatitis and psoriasis, as well as skin ulcers that are formed as a result of diabetes. The DermaSilk therapeutic clothing includes underwear and robes woven with 100% silk threads and treated with a durable antimicrobial agent.

Silk is effective in this case since silk fibers have a chemical structure very similar to that of human hair (97% protein, 3% fat and waxy matter). The silk fibers are perfectly smooth and cylindrical. Therefore, they do not create mechanical friction with the skin. In addition, silk is naturally hygroscopic, absorbing up to 30% of its own weight in sweat without getting wet. This is important to help the cure of atopic dermatitis, because silk is able to maintain the moisture balance of the skin, providing a softening and soothing microclimate close to the skin. Silk is also able to absorb and release moisture without causing irritation, because the diameter of the cylindrical fibers of silk simply increases or decreases as moisture is absorbed or released. Since the silk threads are made of continuous thin filaments, the delicate skin is not disturbed as the moisture content changes. Silk helps reduce severe sweating (common in children affected by atopic dermatitis), as well as to minimize the loss of moisture that can aggravate the dryness and itching of the skin. Silk is also naturally elastic. When used in a woven construction, silk fabrics allow garments to move with the body, and remain tightly attached to the skin, thereby reducing friction.

DermaSilk fabrics and clothing also incorporate a topical antimicrobial agent that provides protection to silk fibers against a wide range of bacteria, germs, molds and fungi. This antimicrobial treatment inhibits the survival of the bacteria in the fabric, and is highly effective against Staphylococcus aureus, one of the main factors of worsening of atopic dermatitis.

Although silk has proven to be effective in clothing and gowns, there are inherent deficiencies in the use of silk fibers, yarns and fabrics, in regard to therapeutic bedding and gowns for patients. Unlike woven clothing and gowns, hospital items such as sheets, pillowcases, lower mats and gowns for patients must withstand continuous use exceeding 8 to 9 hours per day, and extensive washing and drying. Also, hospital items are typically subjected to various chemicals and stains associated with personal hygiene, and must withstand much greater stress and friction associated with adults who sleep. Chloride salts in perspiration and deodorants weaken silk, and alcohol-based products such as hair sprays and perfumes, and chemicals such as nail varnish remover, easily damage silk fabrics. Water applied to a spot on the silk can fix the stain or cause a permanent stain ring. The silk can not be pre-heated in detergents or bleaches, since both would damage the silk. In addition, silk fabrics can not be dried in the air in the sun, since ultraviolet rays degrade the silk. Therefore, silk fabrics are less than ideal for extended use in hospital therapeutic articles.

An inventor of the present invention developed a new fabric technology for therapeutic bedding, which overcomes some of the disadvantages of DermaSilk by using synthetic fibers, some of which have non-round cross-sectional shapes. This fabric has shown great promise for treating mild atopic dermatitis, which is the most common type of eczema. In fact, on January 25, 2007, the Food and Drug Administration of the U.S.A. granted a 510 (k) authorization for the invention as a Class 1 medical device (registration number K061242) for the treatment of mild atopic dermatitis. Notably, that invention represented the first therapeutic bedding to which an FDA marketing authorization was granted as a Class 1 medical device for skin care therapy.

Although impressive, this FDA marketing authorization was not to be used within the context of preventing and treating pressure wounds, because dermatitis and pressure wounds are considered different disorders. In fact, nobody would expect a fabric for the treatment of dermatitis will provide substantial anti-injury properties by pressure, particularly, since the fabric itself does not relieve pressure or otherwise cushion bony prominences.

Since the prevention and treatment of pressure wounds remain a serious medical necessity without a clear solution, there is a need for a woven fabric having antimicrobial, antistatic, wicking and drying properties that are capable of treating and Prevent dermatitis, skin wounds, pressure wounds and other skin problems. This fabric should be non-abrasive, cost effective and should be able to withstand many washes, detergents, autoclave, irradiation and overnight use as needed. There is also a need for hospital items, including sheets, lower mats and gowns for patients, constructed of this fabric and suitable for continuous use in a hospital or other care facility.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION The present invention satisfies one or more of these needs in the art, providing a fabric for bedding, including lower mats, and gowns for patients, which utilizes a unique combination of polymer types and fiber configurations to form woven fabrics that They are similar to silk in terms of aesthetics, smoothness, lengthening and moisture management, but more durable, more resistant to stains and more suitable for items such as bedding and scrubs for patients. In addition, the fabric is also superior to fabrics that contain cotton, because it dries faster and remains soft when wet.

The fabric includes a woven fabric that has warp threads and woven weft threads to provide a smooth surface of the fabric. In the preferred embodiment, one of the warp and weft yarns is at least 40% by weight of the continuous filament nylon fabric. The other of the warp and weft yarns may be from about 0% to 60% by weight of the continuous filament nylon or polyester fabric having non-round cross sections of the filament. Preferably, the fabric includes a conductive yarn from about 0% to about 2% by weight of the fabric. Preferably, an antimicrobial substance is applied topically or is inherently available in the fabric.

Also, the warp yarns can be 100% nylon, and the weft yarns can be polyester or nylon.

The fabric is preferably woven as a twill fabric or a plain weave. Plain fabric is preferred and if a twill weave is used, it is preferably balanced, so that both sides of the fabric are the same. The warp yarn can be a nylon thread 6-6 continuous filament, denier 40, 34 filaments, five twists per inch, with the weft yarn being textured filament polyester Continuous Denier 75, 48 filaments. In the most preferred embodiment, the warp yarn is a 48 filament continuous denier 70 filament textured nylon yarn, the weft yarn is textured, continuous filament polyester, non-round cross section, denier 75 , of 36 filaments, and the conductive thread is from about 0% to about 2% by weight of the fabric.

Preferably, the continuous filaments have a cross section of the non-round fiber, such as fibers with cross-section in the shape of a star, trefoil, trilobal or bow tie. Continuous filaments with non-round cross sections of the fiber typically have a cross section, such that the adjacent filaments form capillarity absorption channels to improve wicking of moisture and rapid drying.

Also, preferably, the fabric has a finish to produce a fabric with an elongation greater than about 30% according to the test of ASTM D5034-95 for the breaking strength and elongation of textile fabrics.

In the preferred embodiment, the fabric has a topical dirt release finish.

In one aspect, the present invention provides a therapeutic woven fabric for preventing and reducing wounds of the skin, which has warp threads and woven weft threads to provide a smooth surface of the fabric and to make it into a sheet size for cover a bed. Savannah it typically has hems to prevent the woven fabric from fraying. One of the warp and weft yarns is at least 40% by weight of the continuous filament nylon fabric, the other of the warp and weft yarns is from about 0% to 60% by weight of the yarn. the continuous filament polyester or nylon fabric having non-round cross sections of the filament, and the conductive yarn from about 0% to about 2% by weight of the fabric. Preferably, an antimicrobial substance is applied topically or is inherently available in the fabric.

Another aspect of the present invention is to provide a therapeutic woven fabric for use in articles that are in contact with the skin. One of the warp and weft threads is at least 40% by weight of continuous filament nylon, the other of the warp and weft threads is from about 0% to 60% by weight of polyester or nylon of continuous filament having non-round cross sections of the filament, and a conductive thread is from about 0% to about 2% by weight of the fabric. In the preferred embodiment, an antimicrobial substance is applied topically or is inherently available in the fabric.

Yet another aspect of the present invention is to provide a therapeutic woven fabric with a smooth surface for building bedding, including lower mats and / or garments such as gowns for patients. The warp and weft threads are continuous and substantially free of villi. One of the warp and weft threads is preferably a continuous filament yarn having a cross section of the non-round filament, so that the adjacent filaments form absorption channels by capillary action, and a conducting wire is integrated to control the static. An antimicrobial substance can be applied topically or be inherently available in the fabric.

An invention can also be considered as providing a method of therapy for the patient, which includes covering the patient's bed with sheets having surfaces that are smooth even when wet; and allow the patient to rest between the sheets. Preferably, the patient's bed includes a mat, and the patient is wearing a gown for the patient, with the mat and gown constructed of a fabric having these same properties as the sheets. The roughness of the surface between the sheets, the mattress and the dressing for the patient, and the patient's skin is reduced compared to the roughness of the surface that would exist between the sheets of cotton fabric or polyester / cotton blend and the Patient's skin An invention can also be considered as providing a method of patient therapy, which includes dressing or providing the patient with a gown for the patient, which has smooth surfaces even when wet. Preferably, the patient's bed includes bedding, including a mat, constructed with the same fabric as the gown for the patient. The roughness of the surface between the gown for the patient and the patient's skin is reduced compared to the roughness of the surface that would exist between the sheets of cotton fabric or polyester / cotton blend and the patient's skin.

Other aspects of the invention provide methods for preventing or treating wounds and disorders of the skin, dressing or providing a patient with a gown for the patient, constructed of a therapeutic fabric, and replacing the article when it becomes soiled. Alternatively, the item can be replaced according to the hospital protocol, for example, every 24 hours. Desirably, the therapeutic fabric is constructed of a woven fabric having warp threads and woven weft threads to provide a smooth surface of the fabric, with one of the warp and weft threads that is at least 40% by weight of the continuous filament nylon fabric, the other of the warp and weft yarns is from about 0% to 60% by weight of the continuous filament nylon or polyester fabric, which has cross sections of the non-round filament, and including a conductive yarn from about 0% to about 2% by weight of the fabric. Preferably, the patient is also provided with one of at least one lower bed sheet, upper bed sheet, pillow cover and / or mattress. The article must have a roughness of the average geometric surface of 1.0 to 1.75 microns when it is dry, measured by the Surface Tester FB4 of the Kawabata Evaluation System. Preferably, the article or articles provide an antimicrobial reduction of Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus and Staphylococcus epidermidis of at least 98.0% after a contact time of 24 hours.

Another aspect of this invention is a gown for the patient comprising a woven textile fabric of 100% continuous synthetic threads, with the finished fabric achieving an antimicrobial reduction greater than 99% of Staphylococcus aureus and Enterococcus faecalis after a time 24-hour contact test, when tested by the AATCC 100 Test Method, which has an average surface roughness of approximately 1.75 microns, using the Kawabata Surface Roughness Evaluation, which has a rate of absorption by capillarity of humidity greater than 15 mm / minute, and having a drying speed greater than 1.0% per minute.

In one aspect, the present invention provides a therapeutic woven fabric for constructing a mat, capable of preventing and reducing wounds of the skin, having warp threads and woven weft threads to provide a smooth surface of the fabric, and sized to fit a bed. The mat may have hems or seams to prevent the woven fabric from fraying, including a lower layer impervious to liquids and / or a medium layer that absorbs fluids, and may be at least 86.36 centimeters (34 inches) wide at length of the upper edge, at least 106.68 centimeters (42 inches) at the bottom edge, and a total length of 165.1 centimeters (65 inches) to increase protection for the knees and feet of patients.

An invention can also be considered as providing a method of therapy for the patient, which includes covering the patient's bed with a mat, whose top fabric layer has a smooth surface, even when wet; and allow the patient to rest on this mat. Preferably, the patient's bed includes at least one other article of bedding such as a bottom sheet, upper sheet and / or pillowcase, and / or the patient is wearing a gown for the patient, with the articles and the gown for the patient constructed of the same fabric as the layer of the upper fabric of the mattress. The roughness of the surface between the upper fabric layer and the patient's skin is reduced compared to the roughness of the surface that would exist between the upper fabric layer of a conventional mattress constructed of a cotton fabric or a mixture of polyester / cotton, and the skin of the patient.

Other aspects of the invention provide methods for preventing or treating wounds and disorders of the skin, providing a mattress to a patient, and replacing the mat when it becomes soiled. Alternatively, the mat can be replaced according to the hospital protocol, for example, after 24 hours of use. Desirably, the upper fabric layer of the mat is constructed of a woven fabric having warp threads and woven weft yarns to provide a smooth surface of the fabric, with one of the warp and weft yarns. the weft being at least 40% by weight of the continuous filament nylon fabric, the other of the warp and weft yarns is of about 0% to 60% by weight of the continuous filament nylon or polyester fabric, having non-round cross sections of the filament, and including a conductive yarn from about 0% to about 2% by weight of the fabric. The upper fabric layer of the mat must have a roughness of the average geometric surface of 1.0 to 1.75 microns, when dry, as measured by the Surface Tester FB4 of the Kawabata Evaluation System. Preferably, the upper layer of the mat provides an antimicrobial reduction of Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus and Staphylococcus epidermidis of at least 98.0% after a contact time of 24 hours.

Another aspect of this invention is a mat with a top fabric layer comprising a woven textile fabric of 100% continuous synthetic yarns, with the finished fabric to achieve a greater antimicrobial reduction than a 99% reduction of Staphylococcus aureus and Enterococcus faecalis after a contact time of 24 hours, when tested by the AATCC 100 Test Method, which has a harshness of the average surface area of approximately 1.75 microns using the Kawabata Surface Roughness Assessment, which has a moisture wicking absorption rate greater than 15 mm / minute, and which has a drying speed greater than 1.0% per minute. Preferably, this mat also includes a lower layer impermeable to liquids and a middle layer that absorbs fluids, with the three layers secured together.

Other aspects of the invention provide methods for preventing or treating wounds or disorders of the skin by providing an article to a patient, and replacing the article when it becomes soiled. Desirably, the article is constructed of a woven fabric having warp threads and woven weft threads, to provide a smooth surface of the fabric, with one of the warp and weft threads which is at least 40% by weight of the continuous filament nylon fabric, the other of the warp and weft yarns is from about 0% to 60% by weight of the continuous filament nylon or polyester fabric, which has cross sections of the non-round filament, and including a conductive yarn from about 0% to about 2% by weight of the fabric, The articles of this method could be one or more of a lower bed sheet, upper bed sheet, pillow cover , mattress and / or gown for the patient. The article should have a roughness of the average geometric surface of 1.0 to 1.75 microns when it is dry, measured by the Surface Tester FB4 of the Kawabatá Evaluation System. Preferably, the article or articles provide an antimicrobial reduction of Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus and Staphylococcus epidermidis of at least 98.0% after a contact time of 24 hours.

These and other aspects of the present invention will become apparent to those skilled in the art after reading the following description of the preferred embodiment when considered with the drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS Figure 1 is an illustration of a bed having a top sheet and pillowcases constructed of the fabric of the present invention; Figure 2 is an illustration of a bed having a bottom sheet and a mat constructed of the fabric of the present invention; Figure 3 describes a patient using a gown modality for the patient of the present invention; Figure 4 is a schematic representation of a mat in cross section; Figure 5 is a schematic representation of a model of a gown for the patient; Figure 6 is a photomicrograph of a yarn whose fibers are star-shaped in cross section; Figure 7 is a photomicrograph of a yarn whose fibers have the shape of a trefoil leaf in cross section; Figure 8A is a photomicrograph of one embodiment of the fabric of the present invention; Figure 8B is a photomicrograph of a conventional hospital bed blunt fabric; Figure 9 is a graph showing high moisture recovery. Nylon, with one of the highest moisture recoveries of any synthetic fiber, absorbs moisture, and aids absorption by capillarity and evaporation. This contributes to the superior capillarity absorption capacity of the present invention, which is demonstrated in the Figure; Y Figure 10 is a graph showing the excellent transport of moisture. Non-round fiber cross sections create channels along the surface of the fiber to encourage and improve the transport of moisture away from contact with the skin. The moisture evaporates and dries more quickly, and therefore reduces the amount of moisture next to the skin. The capacity of the therapeutic fabric dries to more than 95% after 45 minutes, is a considerable improvement with respect to the cotton blend, as shown in the Figure.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED MODALITIES A therapeutic fabric for the prevention and treatment of wounds and skin disorders is described. As used herein, "the fabric" or "the therapeutic fabric" will refer to this fabric, unless the context implies it differently. The fabric is used to form articles that go into contact with the skin, such as bedding and scrubs for patients. As used in this"Bedding" should refer to lower bed sheets, upper bed sheets, pillow covers and / or lower mats, and "articles" should refer to bedding and gowns for patients. The therapeutic fabric includes warp threads and woven weft threads, to provide a smooth surface of the fabric. In the preferred embodiment, one of the warp or weft threads is at least 40% by weight of the continuous filament nylon fabric, and the other of the warp or weft threads is approximately 0% to about 60% by weight of the continuous filament nylon or polyester fabric having non-round cross sections of the filament. The most preferred embodiment includes from about 1% to about 2% of a conductive wire to control static electricity.

Preferably, an antimicrobial substance is applied topically or is inherently available in the fabric. In the preferred embodiment, an antimicrobial substance such as EGIS Microbe Shield, manufactured by / EGIS Environments, Inc., is applied topically to the woven fabric in a standard textile finishing operation. The antimicrobial substance is preferably applied from 0.25% to 2.0% by weight of the active ingredient to 100% by weight of the fabric. / EGIS Microbe Shield works well against the following common microbes: Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, Epidermal Staphylococcus and Pseudomonas aeruginosa The antimicrobial substance can also prevent odors in the fabric.

The warp threads can be 100% nylon, and the weft threads can be polyester or nylon.

In one embodiment, the fabric is woven like a twill fabric (typically a twill of 2X1) or in another modality, like a smooth fabric. The threads are woven in fabric constructions that have 80% to 100% coverage. The warp yarn may be a nylon thread 6-6 of continuous filament of denier 40, of 34 filaments, of five twists per inch, and the weft yarn may be a continuous filament textured, denier polyester 75 , of 48 filaments. In another embodiment, the warp yarn is a continuous filament textured nylon, denier 70, 48 filament, and the weft yarn is a continuous filament textured, denier 75, 36 filament polyester. Continuous filament yarns are preferred because those yarns do not have short fibers that extend beyond the flat surface of the fabric, thereby decreasing irritation for sensitive skin. The smooth surface of the fabric also accentuates this effect. The continuous filaments that form a smooth surface and the short fibers that form an irritant surface are shown in the photomicrographs of Figures 8A and 8B, respectively. Warp yarns from about denier 30 to denier 100, and yarns from the weft of about denier 30 to denier 100 can be used.

Preferably, the continuous filament has non-round cross sections of the filament such as a cross section in the shape of a star or a cross section in the shape of a cloverleaf. The cross section shaped like a clover leaf also improves the smoothness and softness of the fabric. Examples of these are seen in Figures 6 and 7. With non-round cross sections, the adjacent filaments form capillarity absorption channels along the filament surfaces to encourage and improve the transport of moisture away from contact with the filament. skin. The moisture moves along the fabric away from its original source, from where it can evaporate or be absorbed further. Thus, moisture evaporates more quickly and dries from the surface of the fabric, reducing the amount of moisture in contact with the skin. Therefore, the capillary absorption channels also help the user maintain body temperature by reducing excessive sweating.

In the preferred embodiment, nylon is used because it has one of the highest moisture recoveries of any synthetic fiber. The nylon absorbs moisture, and helps absorption by capillarity and evaporation. Although nylon is preferred, polyester can also be used if a durable auxiliary hydrophilic treatment is applied as a subsequent finish.

In the preferred embodiment, the fabric may also contain a topical soil release finish, such as Hydro Wick ™ NA, from HydroTex USA, Inc., at 40% solids applied at 8% depleted by the weight of the fabric Thus, the fabric is able to release the stains associated with antibiotic creams and ointments for the skin, drained from wounds and tissue debris.

In the preferred embodiment, the fabric may also include a conductive wire such as carbon, silver or other metal. The wire is not critical for the therapeutic properties of the present invention, but it is useful for reducing the potential for static electricity that may occur during institutional washing processes. Specifically, the conductive wire controls the static dissipation by driving the static charges away, and avoiding an accumulation of the static charge. The wire is preferably included at various ends of the warp threads and / or courses of the weft threads. Preferably, the conductive yarn is from about 1% to about 2% by weight of the fabric.

As will be understood by those skilled in the art, when the conductive thread is included in the fabric, the percentage of non-round nylon filament and the conductive wire will constitute 100%, not 102%. Consequently, the other threads in the final fabric will be reduced proportionally. For simplicity in the present, however, the slots are exposed as the nylon being at least 40% by weight, the non-round nylon being from about 0% to about 60% by weight, and the conducting wire being about 0% at about 2% by weight.

The fabric provides exceptional antimicrobial, antistatic, capillary and drying properties, and is able to avoid and treat the dermatitis, skin wounds, pressure wounds and other skin problems. In addition, the fabric is non-abrasive, effective in cost, and capable of withstanding many washes, detergents, autoclave, irradiation and night use. Consequently, this fabric is exceptionally well suited for bedridden persons who receive rehabilitation, assistance or care by nurses, and particularly those who are exposed to biological fluids, including sweat, urine, feces, vomit, wound drainage.

Preferably, the fabric is finished to produce a fabric with an elongation greater than about 30%, as measured by ASTM D5034-95. Those of ordinary skill in the art are familiar with the proper finishing technologies to achieve this result.

The fabric lends itself to the construction of various articles that come into contact with the skin, including the upper sheet 10 which includes the hem 14 to prevent tearing, and the pillowcase 12 which also has a hem (not shown), both shown in Figure 1. As shown in Figure 2, the fabric can also be used to construct the bottom sheet 20, the mat 60, and the gown for the patient 30, as shown in Figure 3.

Referring to Figure 2, the mat 60 is placed on the lower sheet 20, which preferably includes adjusted corners 21. Typically, a patient (not shown), lies directly on the upper part of the mat 60, with the upper sheet (not shown) placed about the patient. The mat 60, preferably has a trapezoidal shape with the upper edge 62 being less wide than the lower edge 64 when placed on a bed. More preferably, the upper edge 62 of the mat is at least 86.36 centimeters (34 inches) wide, the lower edge 64 is at least 106.68 centimeters (42 inches) wide, and the length 68 is approximately 165.1. centimeters (65 inches). These dimensions advantageously provide the mat with a sufficient area to extend below the knees and feet of patients, who are particularly susceptible to pressure injuries.

Figure 4 shows a cross-sectional view of the mat 60, which includes the upper fabric layer 75, which is comprised of the therapeutic fabrics discussed herein, the middle layer 77 and the lower layer 79. The absorbent media layer 77 it is preferably constructed of a nonwoven or foam material. The lower layer 79 is preferably impermeable to liquids, and can be constructed of materials such as vinyl, rubber, polyurethane-coated materials and other liquid barriers known in the art. The upper layer of the fabric 75, the middle layer 77 and the bottom layer 79 are preferably secured together to form the mat 60 by the perimeter stitches 85, shown in Figure 2.

The fabric also lends itself to the construction of the gown for the patient 30, shown in Figure 3, which includes the panels for the arm 32 and the body 33. Figure 5 describes a preferred model for building the gown for the patient 30. Preferably, a continuous piece of the therapeutic fabric comprises the body 33. Two sets of panels for the arm 32 (for a total of four) are all preferred, all of which are comprised of the therapeutic fabric. Each individual panel 32 is attached to another panel for the arm 32 via the seams of the bore for the arm 35. Each pair of two panels for the arm 32 are attached to the body 33 via the seams of the panel for the arm 36. The panels for the arm 32 defines the holes for the arm 34, through which the arms extend when the mounted gown is worn by the patient, as shown in Figure 3.

Running along the upper edge of the arm panels 32, there are first fasteners 40 and second fasteners 42, each corresponding to the other, for example, such as snaps or male and female push buttons, ring and socket connections. hook, and the like. The innermost arm panels 32 define the hole in the neck 37 (shown in Figure 3), which may be a v-neck, semicircular, or the like. The loops 38 secure one another (such as by fastening) behind the patient, as shown in Figure 3. Alternate means for securing the gown for patient 30 to the patient include snaps, buttons, ring assemblies and hook, hooks, zippers, stickers and the like. As shown with respect to the lower right loop 39 of Figure 5, the loop 39 can be attached to the body 33 at a position different from the outermost edge 50.

Preferably, the patient gown 30 includes the hem 48 and / or the border 52 for finishing the edges, the pocket 44 for holding personal or small medical articles, and the identification 46 indicating the name of the hospital, department, brand of the article or other desirable indication.

A comparative example of the fabric is a construction of 84 warp threads per inch and 96 threads of the weft per inch, to produce a fabric that is 2.36 ounces per square inch. The warp yarn is a textured nylon with a continuous filament of denier 70 of 49 filaments, with the yarn of the dense 75 filament continuous filament 75 textured filamentary primary polyester weft, of non-round cross section. A secondary weft yarn is a two-ply yarn made by twisting a 25 denier, 3-filament denier carbon yarn with a 68-filament continuous filament polyester yarn, 68, and woven into a 2.5-yarn cloth of fabric per inch or 1% of the total weight of the fabric. For purposes of interpreting the following Figures 9 and 10 and Table 1, this construction will be referred to as a therapeutic fabric, which is only one embodiment of the present invention.

In contrast, the typical hospital bedding fabric is a plain weave of a 120 thread warp construction per inch and 74 weft threads per inch, producing a fabric that is 4.12 ounces per square inch, or 75% heavier than the present invention. The warp threads are spun yarns 39/1 (equivalent to denier 136) in one mix of 50% cotton and 50% polyester fiber. The weft yarns are spun yarns 35.6 / 1 (denier equivalent 149) in a blend of 50% cotton and 50% polyester fiber. These cotton blend fabrics do not have special finishes, moisture management characteristics, antimicrobial properties or dirt release properties. For purposes of interpreting Figures 9 and 10, this construction will be referred to as the "Cotton Blend".

As indicated in the leftmost column of Table 1 below, conventional hospital bedding fabric constructions, not limited to the "Cotton Blend" of Figures 9 and 10, are used for comparison purposes. in Table 1.

Preferred fabrics have the following properties: • High moisture recovery. Nylon, with one of the highest moisture recoveries of any synthetic fiber, absorbs moisture, and aids absorption by capillarity and evaporation. This contributes to the superior capillarity absorption capacity of the present invention, which is demonstrated in Figure 9.

• Excellent moisture transport. Non-round fiber cross sections create channels along the surface of the fiber to encourage and improve the transport of moisture away from contact with the skin. The moisture evaporates and dries more quickly, and therefore reduces the amount of moisture next to the skin. The capacity of the therapeutic fabric dries to more than 95% after 45 minutes, is an improvement considerable with respect to the cotton blend, as shown in Figure 10.

• Minimal friction with the skin. The continuous filament yarns do not have short fibers that extend beyond the surface of the fabric to irritate sensitive skin. A smooth surface of the fabric accentuates this effect. Preferably, the fabric has an average geometric roughness of less than about 1.7 microns average by the Surface Tester FB4 of the Kawabata Evaluation System. The photomicrographs of the present invention and the cotton blend, Figures 8A and 8B respectively, demonstrate their substantial surface differences.

• Substantial antimicrobial properties. According to Test Method 100 of the AATCC, the preferred embodiment of the present invention demonstrates substantial microcidal efficacy (> 99.9%) against Staphylococcus aureus and Enterococcus faecalis in a variety of articles, while several conventional hospital fabrics do not. This is shown in Table 1: TABLE 1 Percent reduction (%) to 24 hours contact time • A good degree of stretching and recovery. Such fabrics help the bed sheets adjust more tightly and therefore reduce wrinkles that cause skin irritation. Such fabrics They also adapt better to the body and reduce the cutting forces on the skin sensitive. Preferably, the fabric has a finish to produce a fabric with an elongation greater than about 30%, as measured by ASTM D5034-95. The superior elongation properties are demonstrated in the Table 2 • Durability for extended washing and drying. Such fabrics will not lose fibers during washing (compared to mixtures of cotton), and do not suffer from pellets of fibers that irritate the skin additionally.

• Ability to withstand high wash temperatures and the use of strong detergents.

• Ability to release stains associated with antibiotic skin creams and ointments, drained from wounds and tissue debris. This is demonstrated in Table 2.

The data relating to various properties of yarns with star cross section and trefoil leaf, and one embodiment of the invention, are compared with fabrics for typical cotton / cotton 55/45 and 100% cotton bedding in Table 2: TABLE 2 Units Thread with Thread with Modality Sheet Shroud section section of the conventional conventional cross transverse invention of sheet star clover Nylon thread 7z Nylon 7z Nylon Polyester / 100% Cotton warp 40/34 40/34 textured cotton 55/45 70/48 Polyester Thread Nylon Polyester Polyester / 100% Cotton texturised textured textured cotton 55/45 75/48 70/72 75/36 Weight of fabric osy 2.53 2.51 2.43 3.72 3.44 Threads per epi 180 173 102 111 113 inches, address of the machine Threads per ppi 110 107 104 79 84 inch, address transversal to machine Elongation% 37.6 37.4 39.6 17.2 12.8 average Permeability cfm / foot2 10.7 9.2 30.5 39.5 39.4 to the air Flexion N 0.7 0.6 0.3 0.9 0.7 circular Value of the Cío 0.49 0.50 n / a 0.53 0.55 isolation thermal Release of 3.0 2.5 5.0 3.5 3 0 dirt to the spots oily Units Thread with Thread with Modality Sheet Shroud section section of the conventional conventional cross transverse invention of sheet star clover Coefficient of 0.53 0.35 0.22 1.10 1.00 friction Kinetics (COF) - Direction of the warp COF Kinetics - 0.50 0.56 0.23 1.08 1.03 Plot Roughness μ 1.4 1.1 1.5 3.7 2.3 Superficial Average Dryness of% 100% 100% 100% 51% 52% the Fabric after 1 hour Although the physical properties of the fabric are significantly superior to conventional fabrics, the inventors, textile experts and medical experts were surprised by the dramatic clinical results when the therapeutic fabric was tested in a clinical study in a real patient hospital. Briefly, patients who used articles constructed of the fabric of the present invention were significantly less likely to develop pressure wounds, and significantly less likely to be discharged with pressure wounds, versus patients who used standard hospital items.

In the study, 307 patients in the Medical Renal Room of a regional hospital were recruited into the study. This patient population was selected due to its affliction with multiple comorbidities in addition to renal failure, and because they had a high risk of developing pressure wounds. The purpose of the study was to evaluate 1) the reduction in damage by friction, cut and pressure to the skin, and 2) the reduction to the maceration and the breaking of the skin fold, where the bedding, including the lower mats and the gowns for the patients helped to protect the folds of the skin. Wet skin caused by sweat and incontinence. Hospital bedding, including lower mats, and gowns for patients made with the invention of the fabric (hereinafter referred to as the "invention set"), were compared with cotton-blend blankets, including the lower mats, and the gowns for the patients used in the hospital (hereinafter referred to as the "standard set").

During the trial, all newly admitted patients received the set of the invention or the standard set, depending on when they were admitted. Specifically, all patients admitted during the first eight weeks of the study used the standard set, patients admitted during the second eight weeks received the whole of the invention, and patients admitted during the final seven weeks received the standard set. The 307 subjects of the test were statistically similar with respect to demographic factors, such as weight, age and comorbidities. His average length of stay was just over five days. The study data were analyzed using the statistical method of the t test to determine if two means of the sample were equal. Statistical significance was indicated when p < 0.05; that is, when there was a 95% probability more than the differences in the means were not due to probability. The key findings are provided below. • 61.7% fewer injuries were developed using the assembly of the invention, compared to the standard set. The results had a p-value of 0.0137, and were considered statistically significant. • 39.6% fewer injuries were found in the discharge of the patient using the whole of the invention, compared to the standard set. The results had a p-value of 0.0315, and were considered statistically significant.

• Normalizing the data to take into account the length of stay of patients in the renal ward, 56.8% fewer wounds per 1,000 patients days are developed using the whole of the invention, compared to the standard set. The results had a p-value of 0.0137, and were considered statistically significant. • 32.0% fewer injuries per 1,000 patient days were found to be discharged using the whole of the invention, compared to the standard set. The results had a p-value of 0.0315, and were considered statistically significant.

The above results showed that the inventors have conceived and reduced to practice a successful therapy for the prevention and treatment of pressure wounds in medical environments.

To prevent or treat wounds or skin disorders, a patient is provided with one or more articles that are constructed of the fabric. Suitable items include a lower bed sheet, a top sheet for bed, a pillowcase, a mattress and / or gown for the patient. These articles are considered as in "substantial contact with the skin" with the patient, insofar as it is foreseeable that the skin of a bedridden patient will come into contact with the article during a period of 24 hours in the patient. hospital. The item or items must be replaced when they are wetted or stained undesirably, or otherwise, in accordance with standard hospital procedures, which require, for example, complete changes in bedding every 24 hours.

Pressure wounds can also be prevented or cured by obtaining a lower sheet, an upper sheet, a pillow cover, a mattress, and / or a patient's dressing sold as preventive or curative of pressure wounds, providing that article for use, and optionally providing instructions or information. "Marketed" as used herein, refers to the written or electronic dissemination of information about the sheet, pillowcase, mat or gown.

The invention also covers a method for preventing and / or treating pressure wounds by obtaining an article marketed as a preventive of pressure wounds, using the article in connection with the care of a patient who would undergo the development of pressure wounds under conventional therapies, and verifying the patient for the development of pressure wounds. This article can be replaced when it is wetted or stained undesirably, it can have a roughness of the average geometric surface of about 1.0 to 1.75 microns when it is dry, and / or it can have a conductive thread.

The invention also covers a method for preventing or treating pressure wounds by marketing at least one article as a preventive and for the treatment of pressure wounds, providing the item to the health care provider, and providing information to the health care provider about the use of the article to prevent or treat pressure wounds.

The invention also covers knitting a fabric, applying an antimicrobial to the fabric, cutting and sewing the fabric to form an article, encouraging the sale of the article as a preventive or for the treatment of pressure wounds, and providing the item to a supplier of medical assistance. This article may include a common thread.

Certain modifications and improvements will occur to those with experience in the technique after reading the above description. For example, the invention can be carried out with fabrics other than plain fabrics or twill fabrics. The fabrics of the invention create a smooth flat surface, without any three dimensional structure of the surface that can abrade the skin unduly. Other tissues that can be substituted They include satin, satin or denim fabrics. It should be understood that all such modifications and improvements have been deleted herein for the sake of conciseness and legibility, but are appropriately within the scope of the following claims.

Claims (45)

1. NOVELTY OF THE INVENTION CLAIMS 1 .- A linen cloth, comprising: a woven fabric having warp threads and woven weft threads, to provide a smooth surface of the fabric; one of the warp or weft threads is continuous filament nylon and constitutes up to at least 40% by weight of the fabric; the other of the warp or weft threads is continuous filament polyester having non-round cross sections of the filament or nylon having non-round cross sections of the filament and constituting substantially all the rest of the weight of the fabric. 2 - . 2 - The fabric according to claim 1, further characterized in that the warp yarns are 100% nylon. 3 - . 3 - The fabric according to claim 2, further characterized in that the weft yarns are 100% polyester. 4 - . 4 - The fabric according to claim 1, further characterized in that the weft yarns are 100% nylon. 5. - The fabric according to claim 1, further characterized in that the fabric is woven as a twill fabric or a plain weave. 6. - The fabric according to claim 1, further characterized in that the warp yarn is a continuous, denier 70, 48 filament textured filament nylon yarn. 7. - The fabric according to claim 1, further characterized in that the weft yarn is textured denier 75 filament continuous filament polyester, 36 filaments. 8. - The fabric according to claim 1, further characterized in that the continuous filament having non-round cross sections of the fiber has a star-shaped cross section. 9. - The fabric according to claim 1, further characterized in that the continuous filament having the cross sections of the non-round fiber has a trefoil leaf cross section. 10. - The fabric according to claim 1, further characterized in that the continuous filament having the cross sections of the non-round fiber has a cross section such that the adjacent filaments form channels for capillary absorption. eleven . - The fabric according to claim 1, further characterized in that it comprises a topical finish that releases dirt. 12. - The linen fabric according to claim 1, further characterized in that the woven fabric is woven as a twill fabric or a plain weave; the warp yarns are a continuous filament textured nylon yarn, denier 70, 48 filament, and constituting up to at least 40% by weight of the fabric; the weft threads are up to about 60% by weight of denier 75 continuous filament textured filament polyester fabric, having 36 sections cross-sections of the non-round filament, which are star-shaped or trefoil-shaped and constitute the rest of the weight of the fabric. 13. - The fabric according to claim 12, further characterized in that it additionally comprises a topical finish that releases the dirt. 14. - The linen fabric according to claim 1, further characterized in that it additionally comprises an antimicrobial substance applied topically or inherently available in the fabric. 15. - The fabric according to claim 1, further characterized in that the finished fabric has an elongation (according to D5034-95) greater than about 30%. 16. - The fabric according to claim 1, further characterized in that the fabric has an average Kawabata geometric roughness of less than about 1.7 microns. 17. - The fabric according to claim 1, further characterized in that the fabric has a percent (%) of dryness after 45 minutes greater than 95%. 18. - The fabric according to claim 1, further characterized in that the fabric has an antimicrobial reduction of Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, and Staphylococcus epidermidis of at least 98.0% after a contact time of 24 hours (according to the AATCC 100). 19. - A sheet for a bed, cut and sewn of the fabric of claim 1, comprising; a smooth surface of the fabric and sized to cover a bed, and having hems to prevent fraying of the woven fabric. 20. - The sheet according to claim 19, further characterized in that the fabric has a roughness of the average geometric surface of about 1.0 to 1.75 microns when dry, as measured by the Surface Tester FB4 of the Kawata Bata Assessment System. twenty-one . - A pillowcase sewn and cut from the fabric of claim 1, to form a pocket for enclosing a pillow, with an opening at one end to allow insertion of the pillow therein. 22. - A therapeutic woven fabric for preventing and reducing skin wounds, comprising the fabric of claim 1, wherein a conductive thread is woven on the fabric, the conductive thread is on the warp or weft threads and it is from about 0% to about 2% by weight of the fabric. 23. - The fabric according to claim 22, further characterized in that the conductive wire is carbon. 24. - The fabric according to claim 22, further characterized in that the composite conductive yarn is a 25/3 carbon yarn folded with a textured 70/68 polyester yarn. 25. - A therapeutic woven fabric of claim 22, for use in articles that come into contact with the skin, wherein: the warp threads and the weft threads are woven like a twill weave, the warp threads are a continuous filament textured, denier 70, 48 filament nylon yarn, the weft yarns are from about 0% to about 60% by weight of the continuous filament textured, denier 75, 36 filament polyester fabric , having non-round cross sections of the filament, which are star-shaped or trefoil-shaped; a thread is integrated with the warp and weft threads. 26. - The fabric according to claim 25, further characterized in that it additionally comprises a topical finish that liberates dirt. 27. - A therapeutic woven fabric of claim 22, wherein the fabric is used to build bedding or clothing. 28. - The fabric according to claim 27, further characterized in that the fabric is finished to produce a fabric with an elongation (according to D5034-95) greater than about 30%. 29. - The fabric according to claim 27, further characterized in that the fabric has a geometric roughness of Average Kawabata of less than approximately 1.7 micras. 30. - The fabric according to claim 27, further characterized in that the fabric has a percent (%) of dryness after 45 minutes greater than 95%. 31. - The fabric according to claim 27, further characterized in that the fabric has an antimicrobial reduction of Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus and Staphylococcus epidermidis of at least 98.0% after a contact time of 24 hours (according to AATCC 100). 32. - A gown for the patient or mat, comprising a woven textile fabric of 100% continuous synthetic filament yarn, the fabric: is finished to achieve an antimicrobial efficacy of a greater than 99% reduction of Staphylococcus aureus for 24 hours depending on the Test Method 100 of the AATCC; has a finish to achieve an antimicrobial efficacy of a greater than 99% reduction of Enterococcus faecalis for 24 hours according to Test Method 100 of the AATCC; has an average surface roughness of approximately 1.75 micras using the Kawabata Surface Roughness component; has an absorption rate by capillary moisture greater than 15 mm / minute; and has a drying speed greater than 1.0% per minute. 33. - The gown for the patient according to claim 32, further characterized in that the fabric includes a conductive thread of about 1% to about 2% by weight of the fabric, the conductive wire is able to control the static dissipation. 34. - The gown for the patient according to claim 32, further characterized in that the threads of the weft of the fabric are 100% polyester. 35. - The gown for the patient according to claim 32, further characterized in that the fabric is 100% nylon. 36. - The gown for the patient according to claim 32, further characterized in that the fabric includes a durable finish that releases the stains. 37. - A gown for the patient able to prevent or reduce the wounds of the skin, comprising a garment to be used by a patient, made of a fabric using the fabric of claim 22. 38. - A method for making a gown for the patient or mattress, comprising the steps of: obtaining a fabric having warp threads and weft threads, which provides a smooth surface of the fabric, with one of the threads of the warp or weft that is at least 40% by weight of the continuous filament nylon fabric, the other of the warp or weft yarns is from about 0% to about 60% by weight of the polyester fabric or continuous filament nylon having non-round cross sections of the filament; cut the fabric according to the pattern to form a model; and sew the model to form a gown for the patient or sew the model as a more superior layer of a mat. 39. - The mat according to claim 32, further characterized in that the fabric includes a conductive yarn from about 1% to about 2% by weight of the fabric, the conductive yarn is capable of controlling the static dissipation. 40. - The mat according to claim 32, further characterized in that the weft yarns of the fabric are 100% polyester. 41. The mattress according to claim 32, further characterized in that the fabric is 100% nylon. 42. - The mat according to claim 32, further characterized the fabric includes a durable stain release finish. 43. - The mat according to claim 32, which includes an upper edge and a lower edge, the upper edge is less broad than the lower edge. 44- A mattress for a bed, capable of preventing or reducing the wounds of the skin of a person who lies on the mattress on the bed, constructed of a fabric of claim 22. 45. - The mat according to claim 44, further characterized in that it includes an upper edge and a lower edge, the upper edge is less broad than the lower edge.