A wound-care device works by applying a slight negative pressure to an open gash or sore to gently pull tissue and hold it together. In the process, the device also pulls potentially infectious fluid from the wound and collects it in a canister. Manufacturer of the VAC (Vacuum Assisted Closure) Therapy System, Kinetic Concepts Inc., San Antonio, Texas, (kci1.com) upgraded the portable version by molding the canister from shatter-resistant polymer, Eastar Copolyester. It withstands the rigors of hospitals and patient recovery rooms, according to developer Eastman Chemical Co. Kingsport, Tenn., (eastman.com). The portable version lets individuals care for wounds at work or during normal daily activities.

KCI also asked Eastman Chemical for help with production. For example, when KCI found problems with weld joints, the supplier redesigned the joint based on Eastman recommendations.

Eastman says the copolyester is the toughest of its family of plastics and works well in noninvasive medical devices. It releases easily from molds and resists many chemical cleaners, solvents, and lipids, making it well suited for the wound-drainage system.