Heating System and Method for Heating a Breast Support Platform

Abstract

A breast support platform for an x-ray imaging system includes a housing having a squeeze plate and a front wall, and a heating system at least partially deployed within the housing. The heating system is configured to heat at least a portion of the squeeze plate, at least a portion of the front wall, or at least portions of the front wall and the squeeze plate. In an example, the heating system includes a transparent conductive film coupled to an inner surface of the housing. In another example, the heating system includes a blower at least partially deployed within the housing, and the blower is configured to direct hot air across the inner surface of the housing.

Description

[0001] Cross - Reference to Related Applications

[0002] This application is being filed as a PCT international patent application on September 20, 2019, and claims the benefit and priority of U.S. Provisional Application No. 62 / 734,748, filed on September 21, 2018, which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety. Background Art

[0003] Compression during mammography and tomosynthesis imaging serves multiple purposes. For example, it: (1) thins the breast in the direction of the x - ray flux, thereby reducing the patient's radiation exposure compared to the level required to image the thicker, uncompressed part of the breast; (2) makes the thickness of the breast in the direction of the x - ray flux more uniform, thereby facilitating more uniform exposure of the entire breast image at the image plane; (3) immobilizes the breast during x - ray exposure, thereby reducing image blurring; and (4) brings breast tissue from the chest wall into the imaging exposure field, thereby enabling imaging of more tissue. When the breast is compressed, typically, a technician manipulates the breast to properly position the breast and counteract the tendency of the compression to push breast tissue toward the chest wall and out of the image field.

[0004] Standard compression methods for mammography and tomosynthesis use a movable, rigid, radiolucent compression paddle. The breast is placed in the imaging area on a generally flat breast support platform, and then the paddle compresses the breast, usually while a technician or other healthcare professional holds the breast in place. The technician can also manipulate the breast to ensure proper tissue coverage in the field of view of the image receptor.

[0005] One known challenge in mammography and breast tomosynthesis is that patients may experience discomfort when the breast is compressed. Compression must be performed with sufficient force to immobilize the breast and spread breast tissue for x - ray imaging. Discomfort can potentially cause the patient to move, which has a negative impact on image quality. Discomfort can also potentially prevent patients from undergoing breast cancer screening. Some known discomfort may be caused by the temperature of the breast compression system. Generally, for the performance of the imaging system, the imaging system is deployed in a relatively cold room. Accordingly, during breast compression, the compression system, including the support platform and the paddle, is typically felt by the patient as cold, especially for the sensitive skin of the breast. Summary of the Invention

[0006] In one aspect, the technology relates to a breast support platform for an x - ray imaging system, the support platform comprising: a housing that includes a compression plate and a front wall; and a heating system that is at least partially deployed within the housing and is configured to heat at least a portion of the compression plate, at least a portion of the front wall, or at least portions of the front wall and the compression plate.

[0007] In an example, the heating system includes a transparent conductive film coupled to the inner surface of the housing. In another example, the transparent conductive film has a resistivity between 14 and 24 ohms per square. In yet another example, the heating system further includes a power supply configured to generate approximately 24 volts at approximately 50 watts. In yet another example, a transfer adhesive secures the transparent conductive film to the inner surface. In an example, the transfer adhesive is substantially free of dust and / or air bubbles.

[0008] In another example, an imaging area is defined on the extrusion plate, and the heating system further includes one or more electrical contact points disposed on the transparent conductive film and outside the imaging area. In yet another example, the housing further includes two sidewalls substantially orthogonal to both the extrusion plate and the front wall, and the one or more electrical contact points are disposed close to the sidewalls. In yet another example, the transparent conductive film is positioned between the inner surface of the housing and the one or more electrical contact points. In an example, the one or more electrical contact points are at least partially encapsulated by the transparent conductive film. In another example, at least a portion of the inner surface is close to at least a portion of the extrusion plate, at least a portion of the front wall, or at least a portion of the front wall and the extrusion plate.

[0009] In yet another example, a recess is at least partially defined in the inner surface of the front wall, and the transparent conductive film is at least partially disposed within the recess. In yet another example, the transparent conductive film is adjacent to at least a portion of the extrusion plate and the front wall. In an example, the transparent conductive film is configured to heat the extrusion plate independently of the front wall. In another example, the heating system includes a conductor element embedded within the housing. In yet another example, the conductor element is a carbon fiber-based material.

[0010] In yet another example, the heating system further includes one or more electrical contact points in direct electrical contact with the conductor element. In an example, the extrusion plate includes the conductor element. In another example, the heating system includes a blower at least partially disposed within the housing, and the blower is configured to direct hot air across the inner surface of the housing. In yet another example, the heating system further includes a heating element close to the blower. In yet another example, the heating system further includes a wind deflector close to the blower.

[0011] In an example, the heating system further includes a temperature sensor, and the heat generated by the heating system is at least partially based on the temperature measured by the temperature sensor. In another example, the temperature sensor includes one or more thermocouples. In yet another example, the temperature sensor is disposed close to the extrusion plate and opposite the front wall. In yet another example, the heating system is fully enclosed within the housing.

[0012] In another aspect, the technology relates to a method of heating a breast support platform of an x-ray imaging system, the method comprising: generating heat by a heating system at least partially deployed within a housing of the breast support platform, wherein the housing includes an extrusion plate and a front wall; and directing the generated heat toward at least a portion of the extrusion plate, at least a portion of the front wall, or at least a portion of the front wall and the extrusion plate.

[0013] In an example, generating heat includes inducing a flow of current across a transparent conductive film coupled to an inner surface of the housing. In another example, the transparent conductive film is adjacent to at least a portion of the extrusion plate and the front wall, and inducing a flow of current includes independently controlling the current applied to the transparent conductive film at the extrusion plate and the current applied to the transparent conductive film at the front wall. In yet another example, generating heat includes directly inducing a flow of current across the extrusion plate. In yet another example, generating heat includes heating an air flow and blowing the hot air across an inner surface of the housing. In an example, the method further includes measuring a temperature of the support platform. In another example, the heat generated by the heating system is at least partially based on a temperature measured by a temperature sensor.

[0014] In another aspect, the technology relates to a squeezing system for an x-ray imaging system, the squeezing system comprising: a support arm; a breast support platform coupled to the support arm and including a squeezing surface and a rear portion; and a heating system at least partially deployed within the support arm and configured to direct an air flow across the squeezing surface, wherein the heating system includes an outlet proximate the rear portion and oriented in a direction generally downward relative to the squeezing surface.

[0015] In an example, the rear portion extends upward from the squeezing surface and includes a curved section. In another example, the support arm includes at least one inlet.

[0016] In another aspect, the technology relates to a squeezing paddle for an x-ray imaging system, the squeezing paddle comprising: an extrusion plate; a front wall; and a heating system configured to heat at least a portion of the extrusion plate, at least a portion of the front wall, or at least a portion of the front wall and the extrusion plate.

[0017] In an example, the heating system includes a transparent conductive film. In another example, a transfer adhesive secures the transparent conductive film to the extrusion plate. In yet another example, one or more electrical contact points are at least partially encapsulated by the transparent conductive film.

[0018] In another aspect, the technology relates to a method of fixing a patient's breast to an x-ray imaging system, the method comprising: heating at least a portion of the pressing surface of one of the support platform and the pressing paddle to a first temperature, wherein the pressing surface of the other of the support platform and the pressing paddle is at a second temperature; positioning the patient's breast on the pressing surface of the support platform; and moving the pressing surface of the pressing paddle towards the support platform so as to press the patient's breast between the two pressing surfaces.

[0019] In an example, the method further comprises heating at least a portion of the pressing surface of the other of the support platform and the pressing paddle to the second temperature. In another example, the first temperature is different from the second temperature. In yet another example, the temperature difference is at least 5 °C. In yet another example, the method further comprises imaging the pressed breast in at least one of a mammography mode, a tomosynthesis mode, and a CT mode. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0020] Figure 1A is a schematic diagram of an exemplary imaging system.

[0021] Figure 1B is Figure 1A a perspective view of the imaging system of

[0022] Figure 2A is a perspective view of an exemplary breast support platform.

[0023] Figure 2B is Figure 2A a top view of the pressing surface of the breast support platform shown in

[0024] Figure 3 is a schematic diagram of an exemplary heating system.

[0025] Figure 4 is a cross-sectional view of the heating system.

[0026] Figure 5 is a schematic diagram of another heating system.

[0027] Figure 6 depicts a flowchart illustrating a method of heating a breast support platform of an x-ray imaging system.

[0028] Figure 7A is a perspective view of another heating system.

[0029] Figure 7B is Figure 7A a perspective view of the heating system shown in

[0030] Figure 7C is Figure 7A an enlarged perspective view of the heating system shown in

[0031] Figure 8 is a perspective view of an exemplary squeegee paddle.

[0032] Figure 9 Depicts a flowchart illustrating a method of securing a patient's breast to an x-ray imaging system. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0033] The techniques described herein relate to a breast compression and imaging system that utilizes a heating system at least partially deployed within a support platform and / or a compression platform of the compression system. The heating system is configured to heat at least a portion of the compression surface in order to reduce discomfort and anxiety of a patient during a breast compression and imaging procedure. By heating at least a portion of the compression surface, the patient can be less sensitive to the contact of the compression system (since it can be closer to room temperature or body temperature), thus reducing unwanted patient movement and improving the efficiency of a technician in positioning and adjusting the patient's breast as well as the comfort of the patient's experience.

[0034] In some known heating systems, the heating system is deployed external to the support platform and directs (e.g., blows) hot air across the compression surface and directly onto the patient's breast. However, these systems can be loud and difficult to properly position on the imaging system. For the latter aspect, the channel openings can allow accidental infiltration of body fluids (e.g., sweat or blood – if a biopsy is performed with the system). Additionally, such a blowing heating system may require space that would otherwise be used for other system components (e.g., a biopsy device). In other known heating systems, a heating pad can be positioned on top of the support platform, but it needs to be removed before patient use. In still other known heating systems, the heating elements may undesirably interfere with the x-ray receiver due to heat and / or electromagnetic. In contrast, the heating systems described herein are deployed within the support platform and / or at least partially embedded within the compression plate such that they can be used during the compression and imaging procedures and do not require penetration or openings close to the breast. Additionally, the heating systems require less space than existing systems. To achieve these features, the heating systems described herein are deployed within the support platform and are configured to not form unwanted image artifacts. The heating systems are further positioned such that they do not impede the functionality of other components within the support platform (e.g., an image receiver and / or an anti-scatter grid).

[0035] In one aspect, the heating system can include a transparent conductive film that is adhered to the non-patient contact side of the compression surface. The transparent conductive film receives a flow of current, which generates heat that then passes through the housing and conducts towards the compression surface. By using the transparent conductive film, the compression surface can receive heat from the heat source to make the patient comfortable. Additionally, the transparent conductive film is x-ray transmissive, thereby reducing or eliminating image artifacts in the x-ray image. Further, the transparent conductive film is relatively thin such that it can be fitted between the support platform housing and the image receptor and does not undesirably affect the profile of the support platform housing. The thin and low profile of the transparent conductive film also reduces or eliminates interference with the x-ray receptor (e.g., via temperature and / or electromagnetic). In other examples, the heating system can be at least partially embedded within the housing such that the resistive heating element (e.g., conductor) is the housing itself. For example, the compression surface can be a conductor element and receive a flow of current.

[0036] In another aspect, the heating system can include a heating element and a blower deployed within the support platform and / or the compression paddle. The heating element heats a fluid flow (e.g., air), which is then directed through the non-patient contact side of the compression surface and conducts heat towards the compression surface through the housing. The blower and the heating element are deployed outside the imaging area such that image artifacts are eliminated. Additionally, since the air flow is contained on the opposite side of the (one or more) compression surfaces, openings on the patient contact surface are not required. In yet another aspect, the heating system can include a heating element and a blower deployed within the support arm of the support platform and the compression paddle. The heating element heats an air flow, and then the air deflector directs the heated air through the compression surface of the support platform. By directly heating the compression surface, the efficiency of the heating system is increased. Further, the outlet of the air deflector is oriented in the downward direction and is partially elevated from the compression surface. Thus, the infiltration of body fluids accumulated on the compression surface is reduced or eliminated.

[0037] The heating system described herein is designed to be shaped and sized to fit within the support platform and / or the compression paddle such that contact with the patient is eliminated. As such, no additional components need to be cleaned and disinfected after use. In some aspects, the heating system can include a temperature sensor that measures the temperature of the compression surface. The temperature sensor enables the operation of the heating system to be at least partially based on real-time temperature measurements, thereby further increasing patient comfort. The temperature sensor is also deployed outside the imaging area such that image artifacts are reduced and / or eliminated.

[0038] Figure 1A is a schematic diagram of an exemplary imaging system 100. Figure 1B is a perspective view of the imaging system 100. Also refer to Figure 1A and Figure 1B, the imaging system 100 is configured to fix the patient's breast 102 via a breast compression holder unit or compression system 104 for x-ray imaging (one or more of mammography mode, tomosynthesis mode, and computed tomography (CT) mode). In an example, the compression system 104 includes a breast support platform 106 and a movable compression paddle 108. The breast support platform 106 and the compression paddle 108 each have a compression surface 110 and 112 respectively, and the compression surface 112 is configured to move towards the support platform 106 to compress and fix the breast 102. In known systems, the compression surfaces 110, 112 are exposed and thus directly contact the breast 102. The support platform 106 also houses an image receiver 114 and an optional tilting mechanism 116. In some examples, the support platform 106 also houses an anti-scatter grid 117. The compression system 104 is in the path of the imaging x-ray beam 118 emitted from the x-ray source 120 such that the beam 118 impinges on the image receiver 114.

[0039] The compression system 104 is supported on a first support arm 122, and the x-ray source 120 is supported on a second support arm (also known as a tube arm) 124. For mammography, between different imaging orientations (such as the craniocaudal (CC) and mediolateral oblique (MLO) views), the support arms 122 and 124 can rotate as a unit about an axis 126 so that the imaging system 100 can take mammography projection images at each orientation. In operation, when taking an image, the image receiver 114 remains in place relative to the support platform 106. The holder unit 104 releases the breast 102 to move the support arms 122, 124 to different imaging orientations. For tomosynthesis, when the x-ray source 120 rotates about the axis 126 relative to the holder unit 104 and the compressed breast 102, the support arm 122 stays in place and the breast 102 is fixed and held in place. The imaging system 100 takes a plurality of tomosynthesis projection images of the breast 102 at various angles of the x-ray beam 118 relative to the breast 102. Thus, the compression system 104 and the tube arm 124 can rotate separately from each other, unless a matched rotation is required or desired for the imaging process.

[0040] In some examples, the anti-scatter grid 117 is positioned between the compression surface 110 and the image receptor 114 and is configured to reduce the x-rays scattered by breast tissue during mammography and / or tomosynthesis x-ray imaging from reaching the image receptor 114. The anti-scatter grid 117 can include a plurality of septa formed of a radiopaque material or a high x-ray absorbing material (such as lead) and separated by gaps formed of a radiation-permeable material or a low x-ray attenuation material (such as carbon fiber or aluminum). In operation, the anti-scatter grid 117 is moved relative to the image receptor 114 to reduce Moire patterns in the resulting image. The anti-scatter grid 117 can also be retracted from the image receptor 114 as needed or desired.

[0041] Simultaneously and optionally, the image receptor 114 can be tilted relative to the breast support platform 106 and coordinated with the rotation of the second support arm 124. The tilt can be by the same angle as the rotation of the x-ray source 120, but can also be by a different angle, selected such that for each of a plurality of images, the x-ray beam 118 remains substantially in the same position on the image receptor 114. The tilt can be about an axis 128, which can but need not be in the image plane of the image receptor 114. A tilt mechanism 116 coupled to the image receptor 114 is capable of driving the image receptor 114 in a tilting motion. In some examples, the anti-scatter grid 117 can be coupled to the image receptor 114 such that the grid 117 tilts with the receptor 114. In other examples, the anti-scatter grid 117 can be independent of and not tilt with the image receptor 114.

[0042] For tomosynthesis imaging and / or CT imaging, the breast support platform 106 can be horizontal or can be at an angle to the horizontal, such as an orientation similar to the orientation of conventional MLO imaging in mammography. The imaging system 100 can be just a mammography system, just a CT system, or just a tomosynthesis system, or a "combination" system that can perform multiple forms of imaging.

[0043] When the system is operated, the image receptor 114 generates imaging information in response to irradiation by the imaging x-ray beam 118 and supplies it to the image processor 130 for processing and generating a mammogram. The system control and workstation unit 132, including software, controls the operation of the system and interacts with the operator to receive commands and deliver information including the processed radiographic images.

[0044] One challenge for imaging system 100 is how to efficiently immobilize and compress breast 102 for desired or required imaging. Healthcare professionals (usually x-ray technicians) generally position and adjust breast 102 between support platform 106 and compression paddle 108 while pulling tissue towards the imaging area to immobilize breast 102 and hold it in place, and, where feasible, have as much breast tissue as possible between compression surfaces 110, 112. However, when support platform 106 and / or compression paddle 108 are cold, the patient experiences discomfort and anxiety, which can lead to movement and improper breast placement. This sometimes even requires retaking x-ray images, which delivers an unnecessary x-ray dose to the patient.

[0045] Imaging system 100 is typically deployed in a patient room that is relatively cold to facilitate operation of the imaging system. As such, the outer surfaces of imaging system 100 (e.g., compression surfaces 110, 112) are generally cold to the touch. Accordingly, heating system 134 can be coupled to support platform 106, compression paddle 108, or both support platform 106 and compression paddle 108 to generate heat and increase the temperature of compression surfaces 110, 112. For example, the typical temperature of the outer surfaces of an unheated imaging system 100 can be about 65°F (about 18.3°C) to 70°F (about 21.1°C), while heating system 134 can be configured to raise the temperature to about 85°F (about 29.4°C) to 90°F (about 32.2°C) or higher, thereby reducing patient discomfort and anxiety during breast compression and imaging procedures. Exemplary heating system 134 is described in further detail below.

[0046] Figure 2A is a perspective view of an exemplary breast support platform 200. Breast support platform 200 includes a housing 202 that houses a receiver and an anti-scatter grid (both not shown for clarity). Housing 202 includes a compression plate 204, a front wall 206, a bottom plate 208, and two side walls 210, 212 that extend generally orthogonally to walls 204, 206, and 208. A compression surface 214 is formed on the outer surface of compression plate 204. In operation, a patient's breast is supported on compression surface 214 for compression and immobilization, and the patient's chest wall is positioned against front wall 206. Compression plate 204 is typically formed of a carbon fiber-based material, while the remainder of housing 202 is typically formed of a plastic-based material. In an example, at least a portion of the carbon fiber compression plate 204 can extend along front wall 206 and / or side walls 210, 212.

[0047] An imaging region 216 is defined on the compression surface 214, which corresponds to the shape and size of the image receptor and forms a visual peripheral boundary for placing the breast on the compression surface 214. To enable imaging of breast tissue close to the patient's chest wall, the imaging region 216 extends from the front wall 206 towards the rear 218 of the housing 202 coupled to the support arm 220. Generally, the imaging region 216 is positioned as close as possible to the front wall 206 so that as much breast tissue as possible towards the patient's chest wall can be imaged. The imaging region 216 is offset from the two side walls 210, 212 to accommodate the tilting movement of the image receptor as described above.

[0048] In this example, the breast support platform 200 includes a heating system 222 (shown in Figure 2B ) that is at least partially deployed within the housing 202 and is configured to heat at least a portion of the compression plate 204 and / or at least a portion of the front wall 206. In some examples, at least a portion of the heating system 222 may be embedded within the housing 202. In other examples, the heating system 222 may be fully enclosed within the housing 202. Additionally, at least a portion of the heating system 222 is mounted within the housing 202 outside of the imaging region 216, which allows for maintaining the range of motion of the image receptor and the anti-scatter grid.

[0049] Figure 2B is a top view of the compression plate 204 of the breast support platform 200 (shown in Figure 2A ). In Figure 2B , the compression plate 204 is shown as transparent so that the location of the heating system 222 beneath the wall 204 can be shown. In the example, the heating system 222 includes a transparent conductive film 224 that is coupled to the inner surface of the compression plate 204 opposite the compression surface 214. That is, the inner surface of the compression plate 204 is the non-patient contact side of the support platform. The heating system 222 also includes electrical contact points 226 and one or more temperature sensors 228 deployed on the transparent conductive film 224. The shape and size of the transparent conductive film 224 are determined to fully cover the imaging region 216 so that the entire imaging region 216 can be heated for patient comfort. Additionally, the contact points 226 and the temperature sensors 228 are deployed outside of the imaging region 216 to reduce or eliminate image artifacts.

[0050] In the example, the imaging region 216 is generally rectangular and has a depth 230 that extends from the front wall 206 towards the rear 218, and a width 232 that extends between the side walls 210, 212. In one aspect, the depth 230 can be approximately 240 millimeters (mm), while the width 232 can be approximately 290 mm. These dimensions create a gap distance 234 of approximately 25 mm between the side walls 210, 212 of the housing 202 and the imaging region 216. This gap distance 234 at least partially defines the space in which the contact points 226 of the heating system 222 must be assembled to eliminate unwanted image artifacts while also allowing the image receptor and the anti-scatter grid to move. The transparent conductive film 224 is generally larger than the size of the imaging region 216 so that the contact points 226 and the temperature sensors 228 can be positioned outside the imaging region 216. In the example, the transparent conductive film 224 is also substantially rectangular and has a depth 236 that extends from the front wall 206 towards the rear 218, and a width 238 that extends between the side walls 210, 212. In one aspect, the depth 236 can be approximately 245 mm, while the width 238 can be approximately 320 mm. These dimensions create an approximately 15 mm width overlap 240 for the contact points 226 near the two side walls 210, 212, and an approximately 5 mm depth overlap 242 for the temperature sensors 228 near the rear 218. It should be appreciated that these shapes and / or dimensions are merely exemplary, and the imaging region 216 and the transparent conductive film 224 can have any other size and / or shape that enables the heating system 222 to function as described herein.

[0051] By positioning the contact points 226 near the side walls 210, 212 and positioning the temperature sensors 228 near the rear 218, not only are no image artifacts formed, but the image receptor and / or the anti-scatter grid can still move as described herein. For example, the image receptor and the anti-scatter grid can be tilted up to 30°, and the shown placement of the heating system 222 still accommodates this movement. In other examples, the contact points 226 and / or the temperature sensors 228 can extend into the gap space of the image receptor and / or the anti-scatter grid within the housing 202. For example, during an imaging operation, the movement of the image receptor and the anti-scatter grid is typically less than the designed maximum range of motion and is only tilted approximately 15°. Accordingly, hard stops (not shown) for the image receptor and / or the anti-scatter grid can be positioned within the housing 202 to prevent the assembly from contacting the heating system 222 when tilted greater than 15°. In other examples, the contact points 226 and / or the temperature sensors 228 can be placed in any other position that enables the heating system 222 to function as described herein.

[0052] As Figure 2BAs shown, the transparent conductive film 224 is positioned on the extrusion plate 204 and adjacent to the front wall 206, and the contact points 226 and the temperature sensors 228 are deployed away from the front wall 206 to reduce image artifacts. Additionally or alternatively, the transparent conductive film 224 can extend at least partially along the front wall 206 of the housing 202. This causes the front wall 206 to be heated to make the patient comfortable. However, since the image receptor and / or the anti-scatter grid typically fit closely with the front wall 206, the front wall 206 can include recesses or cavities (not shown) so that the transparent conductive film 224 can be at least partially recessed within the front wall 206. This placement of the heating system 222 limits or eliminates contact with the image receptor and / or the anti-scatter grid. In some examples, the heating system 222 can heat the extrusion plate 204 and the front wall 206 together. In other examples, the heating system 222 can heat the extrusion plate 204 and the front wall 206 independently. For example, the extrusion plate 204 and the front wall 206 each have a separate transparent conductive film 224, to which the contact points 226 and the temperature sensors 228 are coupled.

[0053] In this example, the transparent conductive film 224 is heated via resistive heating, whereby an electric current is passed through the film 224 to generate heat. In other examples, the extrusion plate 204 itself and / or any other part of the housing 202 can act as a resistive heating element. For example, the contact points 226 can be directly electrically coupled to the extrusion plate 204 so that an electric current can pass directly through the extrusion plate 204. The extrusion plate 204 then acts as a conductor element and is directly heated via resistive heating. In one aspect, the extrusion plate 204 is formed of a carbon fiber-based material that acts as a conductor element. In another aspect, conductor elements are woven within the carbon fiber-based material for resistive heating. In this example, the transparent conductive film 224 is not required, and the conductor elements of the heating system 222 are directly embedded within the housing 202 (e.g., the extrusion plate 204). In still other examples, the components of the transparent conductive film 224 can be at least partially embedded within the extrusion plate 204 and / or any other part of the housing and act as a resistive heating element.

[0054] Figure 3 is a schematic diagram of an exemplary heating system 300. As described above, the heating system 300 includes a transparent conductive film 302, electrical contact points 304, and temperature sensors 306. The heating system 300 can be as described above in Figure 2A and Figure 2Bcoupled to the breast support platform as described, and / or may be coupled to the extrusion paddle. The transparent conductive film 302 is coupled to a power source 308 via one or more wires 310 attached through contact points 304 such that current can flow through the transparent conductive film 302 to generate heat. In various aspects, the power source 308 is configured to produce 1 - 5 amperes, 1 to 150 volts, and approximately 50 watts. In one example, the power source 308 produces approximately 24 volts at approximately 50 watts.

[0055] The current directed through the transparent conductive film 302 can be based on the measured temperature of the extrusion plate as measured by the temperature sensor 306. The temperature sensor 306 is coupled to a controller 312 that communicates with the power source 308 via a relay 314. Accordingly, the current flowing through the transparent conductive film 302 can be controlled in real time so that the extrusion surface does not become too hot or too cold. In one example, the temperature sensor 306 can include one or more thermocouples. In other examples, the temperature sensor 306 can be positioned on the image receptor, anti-scatter grid, and / or extrusion surface. Additionally, the power source 308, controller 312, and / or relay 314 can be deployed remote from the support platform 316 and / or extrusion paddle. For example, the remote components can be deployed in the support arm or gantry of the imaging system.

[0056] In this example, the transparent conductive film 302 is configured to receive the flow of current and act as a resistor to generate heat. The heat generated is then conducted through the extrusion plate. Generally, a carbon fiber extrusion plate conducts heat better through the thickness of the plate than in the radially extending direction. Accordingly, the transparent conductive film 302 is a planar sheet that covers the entire imaging area. In other examples, individual strips and / or patches of resistor film can be used as needed or desired. In still other examples, heating tapes, transparent conductive paints, or other conductive coatings can be used on the extrusion plate. In still other examples, the extrusion plate can be formed of a conductive material such that heat can be generated through the resistance of the plate material, although carbon fiber is only slightly conductive. However, by adding the transparent conductive film 302 to the carbon fiber plate, the plate itself acts as an electrical insulator so that current does not flow through components that come into direct contact with the patient.

[0057] The transparent conductive film 302 can be formed of indium tin oxide (e.g., ITO on glass or polycarbonate), transparent conductive oxides, conductive polymers, metal grids and random metal networks, carbon nanotubes, graphene, nanowire meshes (e.g., silver nanowires or copper nanowires), ultrathin metal films, etc. These materials are generally x-ray transmissive, such that the film 302 reduces or eliminates unwanted image artifacts in the x-ray image. The film 302 is configured to have a resistivity of up to 150 ohms per square. In one example, the resistivity is between 14 and 24 ohms per square. In another example, the resistivity can be between 1 and 20 ohms per square. In yet another example, the resistivity can be between 10 and 30 ohms per square. It should be appreciated that the above resistivity values are merely exemplary, and the film 302 can have any resistivity value that enables the heating system 300 to function as described herein. Accordingly, the plate can be a conductor that directly generates heat. However, as the resistivity of the film 302 increases, the current directed through the film 302 is required to have a higher voltage to generate heat. However, for components that are in close proximity to the patient, a high voltage may not be desirable.

[0058] Figure 4 is a cross-sectional view of the heating system 300. The heating system 300 includes a transparent conductive film 302 that receives current through a wire 310 that is coupled to the film 302 at a contact point 304. The transparent conductive film 302 is secured to the inner surface of the breast support platform by a transfer adhesive 318. The transfer adhesive 318 is resistant to dust and bubbles in order to reduce or eliminate unwanted image artifacts that form during x-ray imaging. In some examples, to reduce or eliminate dust and bubbles in the adhesive 318, the heating system 300 can be secured to the breast support platform in a dust-free and / or electrostatic-free environment. This can result in an adhesive 318 that is substantially free of dust and bubbles. The transfer adhesive 318 is also heat resistant, but thermally conductive such that the transparent conductive film 302 remains adhered to the support platform and / or compression paddle and is capable of heating the compression surface.

[0059] In this example, a heat-treated polyester layer 320 covers the side of the transparent conductive film 302 that is opposite the transfer adhesive 318. The polyester layer 320 thermally insulates the breast support platform components (e.g., image receptor and / or anti-scatter grid) from the heat generated by the heating system 300. The contact point 304 (e.g., hot melt potting) is deployed on the polyester layer 320 side of the transparent conductive film 302. This positions the active side of the transparent conductive film 302 away from the support platform. In other examples, the transparent conductive film 302 has a thickness 322 such that the contact point 304 is at least partially encapsulated by the film 302.

[0060] Generally, the transparent conductive film 302 is relatively thin so that the film can be retrofitted onto an existing imaging system without modifying the profile of the support platform housing. For example, adjacent to the compression plate, there is generally sufficient space to attach the heating system 300 without having to move the image receptor and / or the anti-scatter grid. However, a thicker transparent conductive film 302 (e.g., a glass-based film) may require the image receptor and / or the anti-scatter grid to be moved further away from the compression plate. Additionally, the thin and low-profile of the transparent conductive film 302 also reduces or eliminates interference with the x-ray receptor. For example, heat and / or electromagnetic interference to the receptor.

[0061] Figure 5 is a schematic view of another heating system 400. In this example, the heating system 400 includes a blower 402 that is at least partially deployed within the housing 404 of the breast support platform and / or the compression paddle. In some examples, the heating system 400 can be fully enclosed within the housing 404. The blower 402 is oriented to direct hot air through the inner surface of the compression plate 406 to heat the compression surface 408 for patient comfort. The blower 402 is fluidly coupled to a remotely located fluid source 410. In this example, the fluid source 410 directs a fluid stream (e.g., air or other gaseous substance) to the blower 402 for discharge through the inner surface of the compression plate 406. In other examples, a liquid stream can be used as needed or desired. The heating element 412 is positioned adjacent to the blower 402, either upstream or downstream, to heat the fluid stream just before it is discharged into the compression plate 406. Additionally, a wind deflector 414 or other flow-directing device is positioned downstream of the blower 402 such that the flow of the heated fluid can be directed within the housing 404 as needed or desired. Generally, the heating system 400 is positioned such that fluid entry into the housing 404 is reduced, thereby reducing or eliminating thermal interference with the x-ray receptor while still being able to heat the compression surface 408 as described herein.

[0062] In this example, the blower 402 can direct a heated fluid stream towards the extrusion plate 406, or generally heat the entire interior of the housing 404. Additionally, the heating system 400 is deployed external to the imaging region 416 of the extrusion surface 408. This positions the heating system 400 away from the image detector and / or anti-scatter device and does not create unwanted image artifacts during x-ray imaging. In one example, the heating system 400 can be positioned adjacent to the rear portion 418 of the extrusion plate 406. In other examples, the heating system 400 can be located anywhere within the housing 404 such that the heating system 400 can operate as described herein. Additionally, similar to the example above, the heating system 400 can include one or more temperature sensors 420 to measure the temperature of the extrusion surface 408 and operate the heating system 400 based thereon (e.g., the flow rate of the blower 402 and the temperature of the heating element 412).

[0063] Figure 6 FIG. 500 depicts a flow chart of a method 500 for exemplifying a breast support platform of a heating x-ray imaging system. The method 500 includes generating heat (operation 502) by a heating system at least partially deployed within a housing of the breast support platform. The housing includes at least an extrusion plate and a front wall. The method 500 further includes directing the heat generated from the heating system towards at least a portion of the extrusion plate, at least a portion of the front wall, or at least a portion of the front wall and the extrusion plate (operation 504). Then, the heat conducts through the housing to increase the temperature of the breast support platform, thereby increasing patient comfort during breast compression and imaging.

[0064] In some examples, generating heat (operation 502) can include inducing a flow of current across a transparent conductive film coupled to the inner surface of the housing (operation 506). The resistance from the transparent conductive film generates heat for the heating system. In other examples, the transparent conductive film is adjacent to at least a portion of the extrusion plate and the front wall. As such, the current applied to the transparent conductive film at the extrusion plate can be controlled independently of the current applied to the transparent conductive film at the front wall (operation 508). This enables heating the front wall to a different temperature than the extrusion plate as needed or desired. On the other hand, generating heat (operation 502) can include directly inducing a flow of current across the extrusion plate. The extrusion plate acting as a conductor element provides resistance and generates heat for the heating system. Alternatively, generating heat (operation 502) can include heating an air stream and blowing the hot air across the inner surface of the housing (510). The method 500 can further include measuring the temperature of the support platform (operation 512) such that the heat generated by the heating system can be at least partially based on the temperature measured by the temperature sensor (operation 514).

[0065] Figure 7A is a perspective view of another heating system 600.Figure 7B is a perspective view of a heating system 600 with a portion of the housing 602 removed. Figure 7C is an enlarged perspective view of the heating system 600. In this example, the heating system 600 is at least partially deployed within a support arm housing 602 that supports a breast support platform 604 and an extrusion paddle (not shown). Similar to the above example, the breast support platform 604 houses a receiver (not shown) and has an extrusion plate 606 with an extrusion surface 608. The breast extrusion plate 606 includes a rear portion 610 that, in this example, extends in an upward direction from the extrusion surface 608. For example, the rear portion 610 can be substantially curved and positioned between the planar extrusion surface 608 and the housing 602. In this example, the heating system 600 includes an outlet 612 positioned adjacent to the rear portion 610 of the extrusion plate 606 to direct hot air toward the rear portion 610, which then directs the hot air across at least a portion of the extrusion surface 608. By directing hot air across the extrusion surface 608, the extrusion surface 608 and / or a portion of the patient's breast can be heated before and / or during the extrusion process to make the patient more comfortable.

[0066] The heating system 600 includes a blower 614 that is positioned within the support arm housing 602 and at least partially above the breast support platform 604. In this example, the blower 614 can be a centrifugal fan (e.g., a squirrel cage fan) that is drum-shaped and has a plurality of blades mounted around a hub. The blower 614 can have one or more air vents 616 such that air from within the housing 602 can be drawn through the blower 614. In some examples, the housing 602 can have one or more inlets 618 so that air can flow through the housing 602 and into the blower. Additionally, a deflector 620 extends between the blower 614 and the rear portion 610 of the extrusion plate 606. The deflector 620 forms the outlet 612 and can have one or more vanes configured to direct the flow across a predetermined area of the extrusion surface 608. A heating element 622 is positioned adjacent to the blower 614, either upstream or downstream, to heat the air before it is discharged to the extrusion plate 606. Additionally, similar to the above example, the heating system 600 can include one or more temperature sensors (not shown) to measure the temperature of the extrusion surface 608 and operate the heating system 600 based thereon (e.g., the flow rate of the blower 614 and the temperature of the heating element 622).

[0067] In this example, the heating system 600 is positioned such that the outlet 612 that provides the heating fluid is located above the platen 606 and faces generally downward. As such, the heating system 600 is deployed outside of the imaging area such that image artifacts are eliminated and the operation of the receiver and anti-scatter grid (not shown) is not disrupted. Additionally, the downward orientation of the outlet 612 and the offset relative to the platen 606 reduces or eliminates the wetting of body fluids (e.g., sweat or blood if a biopsy is being performed) that may accumulate on the platen surface 608. Further, by placing the outlet 612 adjacent to the platen surface 608, the efficiency and performance of the heating system 600 is increased.

[0068] Figure 8 is a perspective view of an exemplary squeegee paddle 700. The squeegee paddle 700 includes a platen 702, a front wall 704, two opposing side walls 706, 708, and a bracket 710. The platen 702 forms a bottom platen surface 712 for pressing a patient's breast against a support platform (e.g., the platforms 200 and / or 604 described above). The front wall 704 of the paddle 700 is configured to be positioned against the patient's chest wall. The bracket 710 is sized and shaped to removably couple to a support arm of an imaging system.

[0069] Additionally, the squeegee paddle 700 includes a heating system 714 that is configured to heat at least a portion of the platen 702 and / or at least a portion of the front wall 704. The heating system 714 can include a transparent conductive film 716 that is coupled to the outer surface of the platen 702 and is opposite the platen surface 712. That is, the outer surface of the platen 702 is the non-patient contact side (e.g., the top surface) of the squeegee paddle 700. In some examples, the transparent conductive film 716 can be at least partially encapsulated by the body of the squeegee paddle 700. In other examples, the platen 702 and / or any other portion of the paddle 700 can form a conductor element of the heating system 714 and directly receive the flow of current as described herein. The heating system 714 also includes electrical contact points 718 and one or more temperature sensors 720 that are deployed on the transparent conductive film 716. The transparent conductive film 716 is shaped and sized to completely cover the imaging area such that the entire imaging area can be heated to comfort the patient. In other examples, only a portion of the imaging area can be heated. Additionally, the contact points 718 and temperature sensors 720 are deployed outside of the imaging area to reduce or eliminate image artifacts.

[0070] As Figure 8As shown, the transparent conductive film 716 is positioned on the extrusion plate 702 and adjacent to the front wall 704, and the contact points 718 and the temperature sensor 720 are deployed close to the side walls 706, 708, and / or the bracket 710 to reduce image artifacts. Additionally or alternatively, the transparent conductive film 716 may extend at least partially on the front wall 704 as needed or desired. This enables heating of the front wall 704 to make the patient comfortable. In an example, the transparent conductive film 716 may be substantially similar to the film 302 referenced above Figure 3 and Figure 4 described. In some examples, the extrusion surface 712 may be substantially curved as needed or desired.

[0071] In other examples, the heating system 714 may include a blower (not shown) that may direct hot air across the extrusion plate 702 to heat at least a portion of the extrusion surface 712. Additionally, since the heating system 714 is not directly positioned on the extrusion surface 712, the height of the paddle 700 relative to the platform during the extrusion process can still be used to directly measure breast thickness (e.g., for x-ray dose calculation).

[0072] As described herein, an exemplary heating system is configured to heat at least a portion of the extrusion surface of the support platform and / or the extrusion paddle to reduce patient discomfort and anxiety during breast extrusion and imaging procedures. This reduces unwanted patient movement and increases the efficiency of the imaging procedure. Generally, due to the squeezing force applied to the breast, the patient experiences discomfort during the breast extrusion procedure. Additionally, the temperature of the (one or more) extrusion surfaces (e.g., cold or low temperature) can also cause patient discomfort. In aspects of the present disclosure, the (one or more) extrusion surfaces can be heated to reduce patient discomfort. Additionally or alternatively, the heating system can be used to distract the patient from the discomfort of the extrusion process. For example, selectively heating the extrusion surface to different temperatures and substantially maintaining different temperatures during the extrusion procedure. This temperature change between the extrusion surfaces creates a certain sensation on the patient's breast (e.g., via the patient's thermoreceptors) that serves to distract the patient during the extrusion procedure. Thereby, patient discomfort is also reduced.

[0073] Using the heating system described herein, a temperature change between the extrusion surface of the support platform and the extrusion surface of the extrusion paddle can be generated in any of a variety of ways. For example, the heating system can be coupled to the support platform to heat the extrusion surface while the extrusion paddle is maintained at room temperature. In another example, the heating system can be coupled to the extrusion paddle to heat the extrusion surface while the support platform is maintained at room temperature. In still other examples, both the support platform and the extrusion paddle can have heating systems, but the extrusion surfaces of each are heated to different temperatures.

[0074] In some examples, room temperature or unheated temperature can be between about 65°F (about 18.3°C) and 70°F (about 21.1°C), while the heated temperature can be between about 85°F (about 29.4°C) and 90°F (about 32.2°C). In other examples, the heated temperature can be raised to between about 85°F (about 29.4°C) and 95°F (about 35°C). In still other examples, the heated temperature can be raised to about 113°F (about 45°C). It should be appreciated that these temperature values are exemplary, and the heated and unheated temperatures can be higher or lower than the desired or expected ranges. Accordingly, when one is unheated and the other is heated, the temperature change between the support platform and the extrusion paddle can be between about 20°F (about 11.1°C) and 25°F (about 13.9°C). When both the support platform and the extrusion paddle are heated, the temperature change can be between 10°F (about 5°C) and 30°F (about 17°C). In other examples, depending on need or desire, the temperature change between the heated support platform and the extrusion paddle can be less than or equal to 10°F (about 5°C) or greater than or equal to 30°F (about 17°C).

[0075] Figure 9 A flowchart depicting an exemplary method 800 for securing a patient's breast to an x-ray imaging system is shown. Method 800 includes heating at least a portion of the extrusion surface from one of a support platform and an extrusion paddle to a first temperature (operation 802). The extrusion surface of the other of the support platform and the extrusion paddle is at a second temperature. In some examples, this other extrusion surface is heated to the second temperature (operation 804). As described above, each extrusion surface can have an approximately equal heated temperature (e.g., between about 85°F (about 29.4°C) and 95°F (about 35°C)). In other examples, each extrusion surface can have a different temperature. For example, one extrusion surface can be unheated while the other extrusion surface is heated. In another example, one extrusion surface can be heated while the other extrusion surface is heated to a higher temperature. In one aspect, the temperature difference between the two extrusion surfaces can be at least 10° (about 5°C). In some examples, the extrusion paddle can be heated on a separate paddle stand and then connected to the imaging system as needed or desired, while the extrusion surface of the support platform can be maintained at a constant heated temperature throughout the operation of the imaging system.

[0076] Once one or more of the compression surfaces are heated (operations 802 and 804), a technician can position the patient's breast on the compression surface of the support platform (operation 806). Then, the compression paddle can be moved toward the support platform to compress the patient's breast between the two compression surfaces (operation 808). In some examples, method 800 may then further include imaging the compressed breast in at least one of a mammography mode, a tomosynthesis mode, and a CT mode (operation 810).

[0077] By heating one or more of the compression surfaces, patient discomfort is reduced (e.g., by reducing cold surfaces). Additionally, by creating a temperature difference between the two compression surfaces, a distracting sensation is generated to distract the patient from the compression process, thereby also reducing patient discomfort.

[0078] This disclosure describes some examples of the technology with reference to the accompanying drawings, where only some possible examples are shown. However, other aspects may be implemented in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the examples set forth herein. Instead, these examples are provided to make the disclosure thorough and complete and to fully convey the scope of possible examples to those skilled in the art. Any number of features of the different examples described herein may be combined into a single example, and alternative examples with fewer or more than all of the features described herein are possible. It should be understood that the terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular examples only and is not intended to be limiting. It must be noted that, as used in this specification, the singular forms "a," "an," and "the" include plural referents unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.

[0079] While specific examples are described herein, the scope of the technology is not limited to those specific examples. Those skilled in the art will recognize other examples or improvements within the scope of the technology. Accordingly, specific structures, acts, or media are disclosed only as illustrative examples. Unless otherwise stated herein, elements or components that are generally disclosed but not explicitly exemplified in a combination may also be combined according to examples of the technology. The scope of the technology is defined by the appended claims and any equivalents thereof.

Claims

1. A breast support platform for an x-ray imaging system, the support platform comprising: a housing including a pressing plate and a front wall; and a heating system at least partially deployed within the housing and configured to heat at least a portion of the pressing plate, at least a portion of the front wall, or at least portions of the front wall and the pressing plate, wherein the heating system includes a conductor element embedded within the housing and the pressing plate includes a conductor element, and wherein the heating system further includes one or more electrical contact points directly electrically coupled to the pressing plate, thereby allowing current to pass directly through the pressing plate.

2. The breast support platform according to claim 1, wherein an imaging area is defined on the pressing plate, and wherein the one or more electrical contact points are deployed outside the imaging area.

3. The breast support platform according to claim 2, wherein the housing further includes two side walls substantially orthogonal to both the pressing plate and the front wall, and wherein the one or more electrical contact points are deployed close to the side walls.

4. The breast support platform according to claim 1, wherein at least a portion of the pressing plate is formed of a carbon fiber-based material serving as a conductor element.

5. The breast support platform according to claim 1, wherein the heating system further includes one or more electrical contact points in direct electrical contact with the conductor element.

6. The breast support platform according to claim 1, wherein the front wall includes a conductor element.

7. The breast support platform according to claim 1, wherein the heating system further includes a temperature sensor, and wherein the heat generated by the heating system is at least partially based on the temperature measured by the temperature sensor.

8. The breast support platform according to claim 7, wherein the temperature sensor includes one or more thermocouples.

9. The breast support platform according to claim 7, wherein the temperature sensor is deployed close to the pressing plate and opposite the front wall.

10. The breast support platform according to claim 1, wherein at least a portion of the pressing plate and / or the front wall is formed of a carbon fiber-based material serving as a conductor element.

11. The breast support platform according to claim 1, wherein the conductor element is woven within at least a portion of the pressing plate and / or a portion of the front wall.

12. A method of heating a breast support platform of an x-ray imaging system, the method comprising: generating heat by a heating system at least partially deployed within a housing of the breast support platform, wherein the housing includes a pressing plate and a front wall, and wherein generating heat includes directly inducing a flow of current across the pressing plate and allowing the flow of the current to pass directly through the pressing plate; and directing the generated heat toward at least a portion of the pressing plate, at least a portion of the front wall, or at least portions of the front wall and the pressing plate.

13. The method according to claim 12, wherein generating heat includes inducing a flow of current across the front wall.

14. The method according to claim 13, wherein inducing a flow of current includes independently controlling the current applied to the pressing plate and the current applied to the front wall.

15. The method according to claim 14, further comprising measuring the temperature of the support platform.

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