Remote treatment patient support and method

Abstract

This application discloses a remote treatment patient support, comprising: a pelvic support member having a first surface and a second surface opposite to the first surface; a trunk support member extending from the pelvic support member and facing the first surface of the pelvic support member; a first leg support member extending from the pelvic support member and facing the second surface of the pelvic support member; and a second leg support member having at least one connecting member, wherein the second leg support member also has at least one receiving portion, and the pelvic support member is arranged to alternately perform the following operations: being attached to the pelvic support member by being positioned within at least one receiving portion of the pelvic support member by at least one connecting member; and being separated from the pelvic support member by not being positioned within at least one receiving portion of the pelvic support member by at least one connecting member.

Description

[0001] Cross-reference to related applications

[0002] This application claims the benefit of priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 070853, filed August 27, 2020, entitled “TELETHERAPY PATIENT SUPPORT AND METHOD,” the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety. Technical Field

[0003] This invention relates generally to the field of teletherapy, and more particularly to a support system and method for teletherapy patients. Background Technology

[0004] Teletherapy is defined as a treatment method in which a radiation source is located at a certain distance from the body being treated. X-rays and electron beams have long been used in teletherapy to treat various cancers, and more recently, the use of heavy particles (such as protons) in teletherapy has increased.

[0005] Radiation can be focused onto a target volume with a variable penetration depth. In this way, the dose distribution can be closely matched to the target volume with high precision. To ensure complete radiation of the target growth (i.e., the target volume), multiple beams arriving at the target growth from several different directions are preferred. The point where the multiple beams (whether emitted sequentially or simultaneously) intersect is called the isocenter, and to maximize bioeffectiveness, the isocenter must be precisely juxtaposed with the target growth.

[0006] Radiation therapy is performed on the target growth in a defined process. In the first phase, called the treatment planning phase, the target growth is imaged and the treatment plan is defined, including the dose, patient position, and radiation angle. Placement markers are also defined to ensure correct targeting in subsequent radiation phases. Radiation is then performed in multiple treatment phases over a period of time, in response to the established treatment plan; each treatment phase is called a radiation fraction. During each such radiation fraction, proper patient positioning must be carefully ensured in response to the placement markers to avoid damage to organs near the target growth. Patient positioning is performed based on the patient's visualization, in response to the defined markers.

[0007] Specifically, during each radiation session, the patient is positioned on a patient support structure (e.g., a bed) in a set position. The set position is preferably the same as the patient position during imaging in the treatment planning phase, except that the set position is within the treatment room and the center of the target growth is positioned at the isocenter of the radiation source. The patient's set position is typically verified using imaging and / or positioning equipment. What the prior art desires but does not provide is a patient support structure that allows for remote treatment and imaging at various angles and in various patient positions.

[0008] U.S. Patent S / NUS 7,847,275 to Lifshitz et al., issued December 7, 2010 (the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference), relates to a remote treatment positioning device adapted to translate a patient support member along any one of three orthogonal axes and to rotate the patient support member at least 180 degrees about each of the three axes in order to position the patient support member relative to a fixed treatment bundle, thereby allowing treatment of a lying patient at any desired angle. While this allows treatment at various angles, it is limited to a flat patient support member with the patient lying down. Summary of the Invention

[0009] Therefore, the main objective of this invention is to overcome the disadvantages of existing remote treatment methods and arrangements. In one embodiment, this is provided by a remote treatment patient support comprising: a pelvic support member exhibiting a first surface and a second surface opposite to the first surface; a trunk support member extending from the pelvic support member and facing the first surface of the pelvic support member; a first leg support member extending from the pelvic support member and facing the second surface of the pelvic support member; and a second leg support member exhibiting at least one connecting member, wherein the second leg support member also exhibits at least one receptacle, the pelvic support member being arranged to alternately perform the following operations: being attached to the pelvic support member by being positioned within at least one receptacle of the pelvic support member by at least one connecting member; and being separated from the pelvic support member by at least one connecting member not being positioned within at least one receptacle of the pelvic support member.

[0010] Additional features and advantages of the present invention will become apparent from the following drawings and description. Attached Figure Description

[0011] To better understand the invention and to demonstrate how to practice it, reference will now be made purely by way of example to the accompanying drawings, in which the same numerals denote corresponding elements or portions throughout.

[0012] Referring now specifically to the accompanying drawings, it should be emphasized that the details shown are merely examples and are intended only for illustrative discussion of preferred embodiments of the invention, and are presented to provide the most useful and readily understood description of the principles and concepts of the invention. In this respect, no attempt is made to show the structural details of the invention in more detail than is necessary for a basic understanding of the invention; the description, taken in conjunction with the drawings, makes it clear to those skilled in the art how various forms of the invention will manifest in practice. In the accompanying drawings:

[0013] Figures 1A-1M The illustrations show various high-level views of a remote treatment patient support according to certain embodiments;

[0014] Figure 2A A high-level flowchart of a first remote treatment patient support method according to certain embodiments is illustrated;

[0015] Figure 2B The illustration shows a high-level flowchart of a method for loading a patient into a seated position according to certain embodiments; and

[0016] Figure 2C A high-level flowchart of a second remote treatment patient support method according to certain embodiments is illustrated. Detailed Implementation

[0017] Before explaining at least one embodiment of the present invention in detail, it should be understood that the application of the present invention is not limited to the details of the construction and arrangement of the components set forth in the following description or shown in the accompanying drawings. The present invention can be applied to other embodiments, or can be practiced or implemented in various ways. Furthermore, it should be understood that the wording and terminology used herein are for descriptive purposes and should not be considered limiting.

[0018] Figures 1A-1M The illustration shows various advanced views of the remote patient support component 10. Figures 1A-1M Described together. The remote treatment patient support 10 includes: a pelvic support member 20; an optional pelvic extension member 30; a trunk support member 40; a first leg support member 50; a second leg support member 60; control circuitry 70; an optional booster 75; a position rotation member 80; and an optional base support member 90, which presents a first contact point 91, a second contact point 92, and a base member 93 extending between the first contact point 91 and the second contact point 92. Figure 1A The illustration shows a high-level perspective view of the remote treatment patient support 10, from which the second leg support 60 is separated. Figure 1B The illustration shows a high-level perspective view of a remote treatment patient support 10 with a second leg support 60 attached. Figures 1C-1FThe illustrations show the side view, front view, rear view, and perspective view of the remote treatment patient support 10, which is separated from the second leg support 60. Figure 1G-Figure 1I The front view, perspective view, and side view of the remote treatment patient support 10 with the second leg support 60 attached are shown respectively. Figure 1J The illustration shows a perspective view of the second leg support 60.

[0019] The pelvic support member 20 presents: a first surface 21 and a second surface 22, the second surface 22 being opposite to the first surface 21; a first side 23; a second side 24, the second side 24 being opposite to the first side 23; a third side 25; a fourth side 26, the fourth side 26 being opposite to the third side 25; and at least one receiving portion 27. Each of the first surface 21 and the second surface 22 extends from the first side 23 to the second side 24 and from the third side 25 to the fourth side 26. In one embodiment, each receiving portion 27 is an aperture. In another embodiment (not shown), each receiving portion 27 includes a connecting device arranged to receive a corresponding connecting member. In one embodiment, a plurality of receiving portions 27 are provided. In another embodiment, each receiving portion 27 extends into the second side 24 of the pelvic support member 20 such that the corresponding receiving portion 27 is sandwiched between the first surface 21 and the second surface 22. In one embodiment, the pelvic support member 20 is configured such that the distance (denoted as D20) between the first side 23 and the second side 24 is large enough to support the patient's pelvis, and small enough to allow the patient to be in a supine position when the pelvic support member 20 and the trunk support member 40 are in a reclining position, and to allow the patient to be in a standing position when the pelvic support member 20 and the trunk support member 40 are in an upright position, as described below. In a further embodiment, the distance D20 is less than 20 cm. In yet another embodiment, the distance D20 is between 10 and 20 cm.

[0020] The optional pelvic extension member 30 comprises: a first face 31; a second face 32 opposite to the first face 31; a first end 33; and a second end 34 opposite to the first end 33; a first side 35; and a second side 36 opposite to the first side 35. Each of the first face 31 and the second face 32 extends from the first end 33 to the second end 34 and from the first side 35 to the second side 36.

[0021] The torso support member 40 presents: a first face 41; a second face 42 opposite to the first face 41; a first end 43; a second end 44 opposite to the first end 43; a first side 45; and a second side 46 opposite to the first side 45. Each of the first face 41 and the second face 42 extends from the first end 43 to the second end 44 and from the first side 45 to the second side 46. In one embodiment, the torso support member further includes an optional head support member 47 presenting a first side 48 and a second side 49 opposite to the first side 48. In one embodiment, the distance between the first side 48 and the second side 49 of the head support member 47 is less than the distance between the first side 45 and the second side 46 of the torso support member 40. The head support member 47 extends proximally from the second end 44 away from the first end 43.

[0022] The first leg support 50 presents a first end 51 and a second end 52. In one embodiment, the first leg support 50 includes a foot support 53 at the second end 52. In another embodiment, the first leg support 50 includes a leg support 54 positioned between the first end 51 and the second end 52.

[0023] The second leg support 60 comprises: a first face 61; a second face 62 opposite to the first face 61; a first side 63; a second side 64 opposite to the first side 63; a third side 65; a fourth side 66 opposite to the third side 65; at least one connecting member 67; and an optional base support 68. Each of the first face 61 and the second face 62 extends from the first side 63 to the second side 64 and from the third side 65 to the third side 66. In one embodiment, each connecting member 67 extends proximally from the first side 63 away from the second side 64. The optional base support 68 contacts the second face 62, preferably at the opposite end of the optional base support 68, and has a predetermined distance between the optional base support 68 and the second face 62 to increase structural support for the second leg support 60, which reduces the likelihood of the second leg support 60 bending if excessive force is applied to it. In one embodiment, the second leg support 60 is constructed as a single piece. In another embodiment, an opening 69 is located between the second surface 62 and an optional base support 68.

[0024] In one embodiment (not shown), the control circuit 70 includes a processor and a memory storing instructions that, when read by the processor, cause the processor to perform one or more actions. In another embodiment, the control circuit 70 includes, but is not limited to, a microprocessor, a microcontroller, a field-programmable gate array (FPGA), and / or an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC).

[0025] like Figure 1I As shown, the optional riser pad 75 presents a first side 76 and a second side 77, the second side 77 being opposite to the first side 76. In one embodiment (not shown), the optional riser pad 75 includes a plurality of riser pads, one stacked on top of another. In another embodiment, the optional riser pad 75 comprises polyurethane.

[0026] In one embodiment (not shown), the position rotation member 80 includes a motor. In a further embodiment, the motor is in electrical communication with and responsive to control circuitry 70. The position rotation member 80 is arranged to rotate about a position rotation axis 81. In another embodiment, the position rotation member 80 is implemented as part of a robotic arm 82, exhibiting six degrees of freedom, wherein the position rotation member 80 provides one or more of the six degrees of freedom. In a further embodiment, the robotic arm 82 is implemented as described in PCT application publication S / N WO 2019 / 123464 entitled “PATIENT POSITIONING APPARATUS AND METHOD”, published June 27, 2019, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. In an illustrated embodiment, the position rotation member 80 includes a pair of connecting members 83, each connecting member 83 being connected to a corresponding side of a base 84. In such an embodiment, one or more motors are mechanically communicated with one or both connecting members 83 and are arranged such that the connecting members 83 rotate about a position rotation axis 81 extending through the base 84. The position rotation member 80 is illustrated as being connected to an optional base support member 90; however, this is not intended to limit it in any way. In another embodiment, the position rotation member 80 is connected to: a pelvic support member 20; an optional extension member 30; and / or a trunk support member 40.

[0027] In another embodiment (not shown), the position rotation member 80 includes a single rotating member connected to the pelvic support member 20, the single rotating member being arranged to rotate the pelvic support member about a position rotation axis 81. In a further embodiment, the single rotating member is spherical or elongated in shape. In another embodiment (not shown), the position rotation member 80 includes a translational mechanism arranged to translate along a guide rail connected to the pelvic support member 20. In such an embodiment, the guide rail is shaped and configured such that movement of the translational mechanism along the guide rail causes the pelvic support member 20 to rotate about the position rotation axis 81. In one embodiment, the position rotation axis 81 is substantially parallel to the floor 85. The teletherapy patient support 10 is positioned on the floor 85.

[0028] An optional pelvic extension member 30 extends from the second side 24 of the pelvic support member 20 (e.g., proximally). In one embodiment, a first end 33 of the optional pelvic extension member 30 is connected to the second side 24 of the pelvic support member 20. In another embodiment, the optional pelvic extension member 30 and the pelvic support member 20 are configured such that the first end 33 of the optional pelvic extension member 30 is identical to the second side 24 of the pelvic support member 20. In one embodiment, each of the first side 35 and the second side 36 of the optional pelvic extension member 30 forms an angle between 60 and 130 degrees with respect to the second side 24 of the pelvic support member 20. In a further embodiment, the angle with respect to the second side 24 is between 60 and 90 degrees. These acute angles allow for improved support of the thigh of the patient supported by the pelvic support member 20. In one embodiment, the first face 21 of the pelvic support member 20 and the first face 31 of the optional pelvic extension member 30 together form a generally T-shape. Advantageously, the T-shape allows the patient's legs to span sides 35 and 36 of the optional pelvic extension member 30, providing superior pelvic support. Furthermore, when in this position (i.e., when the patient is standing), the patient's legs are supported by the first leg support member 50, and the patient's abdomen and pelvis are more exposed. This allows for better penetration of the teletherapy radiation beam into the patient's abdomen / pelvis. In one embodiment, the distance between the first side 35 and the second side 36 of the optional pelvic extension member decreases from the first end 33 to the second end 34. This allows for more comfortable positioning of the patient's legs. In another embodiment, at the first end 33, the distance between the first side 35 and the second side 36 is approximately one-third of the distance between the third side 35 and the second side 36; however, this does not imply any limitation in any way.

[0029] In another embodiment, an optional pelvic extension member 30 divides the second side 24 of the pelvic support member 20 into a first portion 28 and a second portion 29. In a further embodiment, a pair of receiving portions 27 are provided, the first receiving portion 27 extending into the first portion 28 of the second side 24 of the pelvic support member 20, and the second receiving portion 27 extending into the second portion 29 of the second side 24. In another further embodiment, the distance between the first portion 28 and the second portion 29 (i.e., the distance between the first side 35 and the second side 36 (denoted as D30)) is less than the length of each of the first portion 28 and the second portion 29. In particular, the distance between the first side 35 of the optional pelvic extension member 30 and the third side 25 of the pelvic support member 20 (denoted as D28) is less than D30. Similarly, the distance between the second side 36 of the optional pelvic extension member 30 and the fourth side 26 of the pelvic support member 20 (denoted as D29) is less than D30.

[0030] In one embodiment, such as Figure 1HAs shown, the pelvic support member 20 presents a hole 105 extending from a first surface 21 to a second surface 22. In another embodiment (not shown), an optional pelvic extension member 30 presents a hole 105 extending from a first surface 31 to a second surface 32. The hole 105 allows access to a patient supported by the remote treatment patient support member 10, including access to rectal devices.

[0031] A trunk support member 40 extends from a pelvic support member 20. In one embodiment, the trunk support member 40 extends from a first side 23 of the pelvic support member 20. In a further embodiment, a first end 43 of the trunk support member 40 is connected to the first side 23 of the pelvic support member 20. In another further embodiment, the trunk support member 40 and the pelvic support member 20 are configured such that the first end 43 of the trunk support member is identical to the first side 23 of the pelvic support member 20. In one embodiment, a first face 41 is concavely curved, extending from a first side 45 to a second side 46, such that the midline of the first face 41 extending from the first side 23 is further away from the optional pelvic extension member 30 than the plane defined by the first side 45 and the second side 46. In a further embodiment, a second face 42 is convexly curved, extending from the first side 45 to the second side 46, such that the midline of the second face 42 extending from the first side 23 is further away from the optional pelvic extension member 30 than the plane defined by the first side 45 and the second side 46. The first surface 41 of the torso support member 40 faces the first surface 21 of the pelvic support member 20, meaning there is an angle of less than 180 degrees between the first surface 41 and the first surface 21. In one embodiment, the angle between the first surface 41 of the torso support member 40 and the first surface 21 of the pelvic support member 20 is greater than 90 degrees and less than 180 degrees. In a further embodiment, the angle between the first surface 41 of the torso support member 40 and the first surface 21 of the pelvic support member 20 is between 100 and 120 degrees. In yet another embodiment, the angle between the first surface 41 of the torso support member 40 and the first surface 21 of the pelvic support member 20 is approximately 110 degrees.

[0032] The optional base support 90 has a first contact point 91 that contacts the pelvic support member 20 (optionally at its second side 24), and a second contact point 92 that contacts the optional pelvic extension member 30 (optionally at its first end 34). In one embodiment, the pelvic support member 20, the optional pelvic extension member 30, and the optional base support 90 are configured as a single piece. In another embodiment, the pelvic support member 20, the optional pelvic extension member 30, and the optional base support 90 are configured such that the first contact point 91 of the optional base support 90 is the same as the second side 24 of the pelvic support member; and the second contact point 92 of the optional base support 90 is the same as the second end 34 of the optional pelvic extension member 30. In one embodiment, the pelvic support member 20, the optional pelvic extension member 30, and the optional base support member 90 are configured such that an opening 94 is created between the base member 93 and the surface defined by the second surface 22 of the pelvic support member 20 and the second surface 32 of the optional pelvic extension member 30.

[0033] A first leg support 50 extends from the pelvic support member 20 at its first end 51. In one embodiment, the first leg support 50 extends from the base member 93 of an optional base support 90. The first leg support 50 faces a second surface 24 of the pelvic support member 20, i.e., there is an angle of less than 180 degrees between the first leg support 50 and the second surface 24.

[0034] At least one connecting member 67 of the second leg support 60 is arranged to alternately perform the following operations: positioned within at least one receiving portion 27 of the pelvic support member 20; and not positioned within at least one receiving portion 27 of the pelvic support member 20. Specifically, each connecting member 67 is shaped and sized to fit within and be removable from the corresponding receiving portion 27. In one embodiment, the connecting member 67 and the corresponding receiving portion 27 are shaped and sized such that the second leg support 60 is secured to the pelvic support member 20. In another embodiment (not shown), additional fastening elements are provided. In a further embodiment, these fastening elements include: a spring-loaded control element within the receiving portion 27; and / or bolts or other locking mechanisms outside the pelvic support member 20 and the second leg support 60.

[0035] During operation, control circuit 70 controls position rotation member 80 to rotate pelvic support member 20 and trunk support member 40 about position rotation axis 81 by the following angles: (e.g.) Figure 1L The range of upright angles shown; and as shown Figure 1M The range of reclining angles shown is different from the range of upright angles. For example... Figure 1KAs shown, the upright angle range and the tilt angle range are defined relative to a vertical plane 120 extending vertically from the floor 85 and a horizontal plane 130 extending parallel to the floor 85, respectively. The vertical plane 120 is generally perpendicular to the position rotation axis 81, while the horizontal plane 130 is generally parallel to the position rotation axis 81. Figure 1L The shown upright angle range includes the angle of the torso support member 40 relative to the vertical plane 120. The angle of the torso support member 40 relative to the vertical plane 120 within the upright angle range is smaller than the angle of the torso support member 40 relative to the vertical plane 120 within the reclining angle range. Similarly, as... Figure 1M As shown, the reclining angle range includes the angle of the torso support member 40 relative to the horizontal plane 130. The angle of the torso support member 40 relative to the horizontal plane 130 within the reclining angle range is smaller than the angle of the torso support member 40 relative to the horizontal plane 130 within the upright angle range.

[0036] In one embodiment, the first end of the upright angle range coincides with the second surface 22 of the pelvic support member 20, which typically faces the floor 85. Therefore, depending on the angle between the torso support member 40 and the pelvic support member 20, the first surface 41 of the torso support member forms an angle of 10-30 degrees with the vertical plane 120. For example, if the first surface 41 of the torso support member 40 forms a 20-degree angle with the first surface 21 of the pelvic support member 20, then the first end of the upright angle range coincides with the first surface 41, which forms an angle of 110 degrees with the vertical plane 120. In a further embodiment, the first end of the reclining angle range coincides with the torso support member 40, which is parallel to the horizontal plane 130. In another further embodiment, both the second end of the upright angle range and the second end of the reclining angle range form approximately 40 degrees with the vertical plane 120 and approximately 50 degrees with the horizontal plane 130, wherein the second surface 42 of the torso support member 40 faces the floor 85. In another embodiment, the upright angle range and the reclining angle range partially overlap.

[0037] In one embodiment, the robotic arm 82 is arranged in response to control circuitry 70 to rotate the pelvic support member 20 about axis 125 by a predetermined range, optionally by 10 degrees relative to either side of axis 125. Axis 125 is perpendicular to vertical plane 120 and parallel to horizontal plane 130. In another embodiment, the robotic arm 82 is arranged in response to control circuitry 70 to rotate the pelvic support member 20 about axis 135 by a predetermined range, optionally by 360 degrees. Axis 135 is parallel to vertical plane 120 and perpendicular to horizontal plane 130.

[0038] The second leg support 60 can be detached from the pelvic support member 20 by removing the connecting member 67 from the corresponding receiving portion 27. When needed, the second leg support 60 is reattached by positioning the connecting member 67 within the corresponding receiving portion 27. In one embodiment, a first surface 21 of the pelvic support member 20 defines a plane 140, and the attached second leg support 60 extends along plane 140 when the connecting member 67 is positioned within the corresponding receiving portion 27 of the pelvic support member 20. Extending the second leg support 60 along plane 140 defined by the pelvic support member 20 allows the patient to sit in a more comfortable position when a portion of the torso is radiated. When the pelvic support member 20 is rotated about the position rotation axis 81 to a reclining angle range, i.e., when the patient supported by the remote treatment patient support 10 lies down, the second leg support 60 detaches from the pelvic support member 20, and the patient's legs are supported by the first leg support 50. When the pelvic support member 20 rotates about the position rotation axis 81 to an upright angle range, the patient supported by the remote treatment patient support 10 can be in a sitting or standing position. When the patient is in a standing position, the second leg support 60 is separated from the pelvic support member 20, and the patient's legs are supported by the first leg support 50. When the patient is in a sitting position, the second leg support 60 is attached to the pelvic support member 20, and the patient's legs are supported by the second leg support 60.

[0039] In one embodiment, when the patient is seated, the first surface 76 of the optional lift pad 75 contacts the first surface 21 of the pelvic support member 20, and the patient sits on the second surface 77 of the optional lift pad 75. The height of the optional lift pad 75 (i.e., the distance between the first surface 76 and the second surface 77) is sized such that the patient's head rests on the head support member 47. Advantageously, by providing the optional lift pad 75, a non-adjustable head support member 47 can be used. This provides a more robust structure for both the torso support member 40 and the head support member 47.

[0040] In another embodiment, to position the patient in a sitting position, control circuit 70 controls position rotation member 80 to rotate pelvic support member 20 about position rotation axis 81 by a predetermined angle within a reclining angle range, for example, up to 90 degrees from the axis of vertical plane 120. After rotating pelvic support member 20 by the predetermined angle within the reclining angle range, the patient is positioned on the first surface 21 of pelvic support member 20. Optionally, prior to positioning the patient, an optional elevation pad 75 is positioned on the first surface 21 of pelvic support member 20, and the patient is positioned on the optional elevation pad 75. After positioning the patient on pelvic support member 20, control circuit 70 controls position rotation member 80 to rotate pelvic support member 20 about position rotation axis 81 to a predetermined angle within an upright angle range. For example, pelvic support member 20 is first rotated 90 degrees from the axis of vertical plane 120. Then the patient is loaded onto pelvic support member 20 in a supine position, and pelvic support member is rotated 70 degrees toward the axis of vertical plane 120. The pelvic support member 20 is thus positioned such that the trunk support member 40 forms an angle of approximately 20 degrees with the axis of the vertical plane 120, and the patient is in a semi-standing position supported by the first leg support member 50. The patient's legs are then raised, and the second leg support member 60 is attached to the pelvic support member 20, thereby transferring the patient to a sitting position.

[0041] Therefore, the teletherapy patient support 10 is arranged to support the patient in multiple positions (including reclining, sitting, and standing) for teletherapy. Advantageously, the patient can be irradiated with a therapeutic beam and imaged by a 3D imager including a computed tomography (CT) imager. For example, to irradiate growths in a patient's pelvis, the patient can be imaged by a CT imager in a standing position, which allows for full access to the pelvis. Irradiation can then be performed in a sitting position, which is more comfortable for the patient.

[0042] The above has been described in one embodiment, in which the remote treatment patient support 10 switches between three positions: standing; sitting; and supine. However, this does not imply any limitation in any way. In another embodiment, the pelvic support member 20 does not rotate to the supine position. In such an embodiment, the remote treatment patient support 10 presents two positions: a standing position, in which the second leg support member 60 is separated from the pelvic support member 20; and a sitting position, in which the second leg support member 60 is attached to the pelvic support member 20.

[0043] Figure 2A A high-level flowchart of a first remote treatment patient support method according to certain embodiments is illustrated. Figure 2AThe method can be performed using the remote treatment patient support 10 disclosed above. In stage 1000, the pelvic support member and the trunk support member rotate alternately about a position rotation axis to be in an upright angle range and a reclining angle range, the reclining angle range being different from the upright angle range. As described above, in one embodiment, the upright angle range and the reclining angle range partially overlap. The pelvic support member presents a first face and a second face, the second face being opposite to the first face. The trunk support member extends from the pelvic support member and faces the first face of the pelvic support member. Optionally, the trunk support member presents a first end and a second end, the second end being opposite to the first end.

[0044] The pelvic support member also presents a first side and a second side, the second side being opposite to the first side. In one embodiment, the distance between the first and second sides of the pelvic support member is less than 20 cm. In another embodiment, the distance between the first and second sides of the pelvic support member is large enough to support the patient's pelvis, but small enough to allow the patient to be in a supine position when the pelvic support member and the trunk support member rotate about the position rotation axis within an angle of recumbency; and to allow the patient to be in a standing position when the pelvic support member and the trunk support member rotate about the position rotation axis within an angle of uprightness. Furthermore, the pelvic support member also presents at least one receiving portion.

[0045] A first leg support extends from the pelvic support member and faces a second side of the pelvic support member. A second leg support member presents at least one connecting member. In one embodiment, a pelvic extension member extends from the second side of the pelvic support member. In a further embodiment, the trunk support member and the pelvic extension member form an angle between 100 and 120 degrees.

[0046] In stage 1010, when the pelvic support member and the trunk support member of stage 1000 rotate about the position rotation axis to an upright angle range, at least one connecting member of the second leg support alternately performs the following operations: positioned within at least one receiving portion of the pelvic support member; and not positioned within at least one receiving portion of the pelvic support member. In stage 1020, when the pelvic support member and the trunk support member of stage 1000 rotate about the position rotation axis to a reclining angle range, at least one connecting member of the second leg support is not positioned within at least one receiving portion of the pelvic support member.

[0047] Figure 2BA high-level flowchart illustrating a method for positioning a patient on a patient support member (e.g., the patient support 10 disclosed above) at stage 1000 is shown. In stage 1100, the pelvic support member and trunk support member of stage 1000 are rotated about a position rotation axis to a predetermined angle within the tilt angle range of stage 1000. In an optional stage 1110, a lifting pad is positioned on a first surface of the pelvic support member. Optionally, the positioned lifting pad comprises polyurethane. In stage 1120, following the rotation at stage 1100, the patient is positioned on the pelvic support member, optionally on the positioned lifting pad of optional stage 1100. In such an embodiment, the height of the positioned lifting pad is defined in response to the difference between the patient's height and the position of a head support member extending from a second end of the trunk support member of stage 1000. In stage 1130, following the patient positioning at stage 1120, the pelvic support member and trunk support member are rotated about a position rotation axis to a predetermined angle within the upright angle range.

[0048] Figure 2C A high-level flowchart of a second remote treatment patient support method according to certain embodiments is illustrated. Figure 2C The method can be performed using the remote treatment patient support 10 discussed above. In stage 2000, at least one connecting member of the second leg support alternately operates as follows: positioned within at least one receiving portion of the pelvic support member; and not positioned within at least one receiving portion of the pelvic support member. As described above with respect to stage 1000, the pelvic support member presents a first face and a second face, the second face being opposite to the first face. As further described above, a trunk support member extends from the pelvic support member and faces the first face of the pelvic support member. The pelvic support member also presents a first side and a second side, the second side being opposite to the first side. As further described above, a first leg support member extends from the pelvic support member and faces the second face of the pelvic support member.

[0049] It should be understood that, for clarity, certain features of the invention described in the context of individual embodiments may also be provided in combination in a single embodiment. Conversely, for brevity, various features of the invention described in the context of individual embodiments may also be provided individually or in any suitable sub-combination.

[0050] Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this invention pertains. Although similar or equivalent methods to those described herein may be used in the practice or testing of this invention, suitable methods are described herein.

[0051] All publications, patent applications, patents, and other references mentioned herein are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety. In case of conflict, the patent specification, including definitions, shall prevail. Furthermore, the materials, methods, and examples are illustrative only and not intended to be limiting.

[0052] The terms “include,” “comprise,” and “have,” as well as their morphological variations, used in this article refer to “including but not necessarily limited to.”

[0053] Those skilled in the art will understand that the present invention is not limited to what has been specifically shown and described above. Rather, the scope of the invention is defined by the appended claims and includes combinations and sub-combinations of the various features described above, as well as variations and modifications that would occur to those skilled in the art upon reading the foregoing description.

Claims

1. A remote treatment patient support device, comprising: A pelvic support member having a first surface and a second surface opposite to the first surface; A trunk support member that extends from the pelvic support member and faces the first surface of the pelvic support member; A first leg support extends from the pelvic support member and faces the second surface of the pelvic support member; and A second leg support member presenting at least one connecting member. The pelvic support member presents at least one receiving portion, and the second leg support member is arranged to alternately perform the following operations: The pelvic support member is attached to the pelvic support member by being positioned within the at least one receiving portion of the pelvic support member via the at least one connecting member. and The at least one connecting member is separated from the pelvic support member by not being positioned within the at least one receiving portion of the pelvic support member.

2. The remote treatment patient support device according to claim 1, further comprising: Control circuit; and A position rotation component, wherein the control circuitry is arranged to control the position rotation component to cause the pelvic support component and the trunk support component to rotate alternately about a position rotation axis. The range of upright angles, and The range of leaning angles that differs from the range of upright angles.

3. The remote treatment patient support according to claim 1, further comprising a pelvic extension component, The pelvic support member further presents a first side and a second side opposite to the first side, each of the first and second sides extending from the first side to the second side. The trunk support member extends from the first side of the pelvic support member, and the pelvic extension member extends from the second side of the pelvic support member.

4. The remote treatment patient support according to claim 3, wherein the distance between the first side and the second side of the pelvic support member is less than 20 cm.

5. The remote treatment patient support device according to claim 3, further comprising: Control circuit; and A position rotation component, wherein the control circuitry is arranged to control the position rotation component to cause the pelvic support component and the trunk support component to rotate alternately about a position rotation axis. The range of upright angles, and The range of leaning angles, which differs from the range of upright angles, The distance between the first and second sides of the pelvic support member is large enough to support the patient's pelvis, but small enough to: When the pelvic support member and the trunk support member rotate around the position rotation axis at an angle within the tilt angle range, the patient is allowed to be in a supine position; and The patient is allowed to stand when the pelvic support member and the trunk support member rotate around the position rotation axis at an angle within the range of the upright angle.

6. The remote treatment patient support according to claim 3, wherein the trunk support member and the pelvic extension member are at an angle between 100 and 120 degrees.

7. The remote treatment patient support according to claim 3, wherein the first surface of the pelvic support member and the surface of the pelvic extension member form a T-shape.

8. The remote treatment patient support according to claim 3, wherein the at least one receiving portion of the pelvic support member extends into the second side of the pelvic support member.

9. The remote treatment patient support of claim 8, wherein the second side of the pelvic support member presents a first portion and a second portion, and the pelvic extension member separates the second portion from the first portion, and The at least one receiving portion of the pelvic support member presents a pair of receiving portions, each of the pair of receiving portions extending into a corresponding one of the first portion and the second portion on the second side of the pelvic support member.

10. The remote treatment patient support of claim 3, wherein the second side of the pelvic support member presents a first portion and a second portion, and the pelvic extension member separates the second portion from the first portion.

11. The remote treatment patient support of claim 3, wherein the pelvic extension member presents a first surface and a second surface opposite to the first surface, and The pelvic support member or the pelvic extension member presents a hole extending from the corresponding first surface to the corresponding second surface.

12. The remote treatment patient support of claim 1, wherein the first surface of the pelvic support member defines a plane, and the second leg support member extends along the plane when the at least one connecting member of the second leg support member is positioned within the at least one receiving portion of the pelvic support member.

13. A method for supporting a patient in remote treatment, wherein a pelvic support member presents a first surface and a second surface opposite to the first surface. The trunk support member extends from the pelvic support member and faces the first surface of the pelvic support member. The first leg support extends from the pelvic support member and faces the second surface of the pelvic support member. The pelvic support member further comprises at least one receiving portion. The second leg support has at least one connecting member, and The method includes alternatingly performing the following operations: Positioning at least one connecting member of the second leg support within at least one receiving portion of the pelvic support member; and The at least one connecting member of the second leg support is not positioned within the at least one receiving portion of the pelvic support member.

14. The method of claim 13, further comprising alternately rotating the pelvic support member about a positional rotation axis: Upright angle range; and The range of leaning angles, which differs from the range of upright angles, in, When the pelvic support member rotates around the position rotation axis by an angle within the upright angle range, the alternating positioning and non-positioning of the at least one connecting member of the second leg support member within the at least one receiving portion of the pelvic support member are performed. Wherein, when the pelvic support member rotates around the position rotation axis by an angle within the tilt angle range, the method further includes not positioning the at least one connecting member of the second leg support member within the at least one receiving portion of the pelvic support member.

15. The method of claim 13, wherein the pelvic support member further presents a first side and a second side opposite to the first side, each of the first side and the second side extending from the first side to the second side, and The trunk support member extends from the first side of the pelvic support member, and the pelvic extension member extends from the second side of the pelvic support member.

16. The method of claim 15, wherein the distance between the first side and the second side of the pelvic support member is less than 20 cm.

17. The method of claim 15, further comprising alternatingly rotating the pelvic support member about a position rotation axis: The range of upright angles; and The range of leaning angles, which differs from the range of upright angles, The distance between the first and second sides of the pelvic support member is large enough to support the patient's pelvis, but small enough to: When the pelvic support member and the trunk support member rotate about the position rotation axis at an angle within the range of the tilt angle, the patient is allowed to be in a supine position; and The patient is allowed to stand when the pelvic support member and the trunk support member rotate around the position rotation axis at an angle within the range of the upright angle.

18. The method of claim 15, wherein the trunk support member and the pelvic extension member are at an angle between 100 and 120 degrees.

19. The method of claim 15, wherein the first face of the pelvic support member and the face of the pelvic extension member form a T-shape.

20. The method of claim 15, wherein the at least one receiving portion of the pelvic support member extends into the second side of the pelvic support member.

21. The method of claim 20, wherein the second side of the pelvic support member presents a first portion and a second portion, and the pelvic extension member separates the second portion from the first portion, and The at least one receiving portion of the pelvic support member presents a pair of receiving portions, each of the pair of receiving portions extending into a corresponding one of the first portion and the second portion on the second side of the pelvic support member.

22. The method of claim 15, wherein the second side of the pelvic support member presents a first portion and a second portion, and the pelvic extension member separates the second portion from the first portion.

23. The method of claim 15, wherein the pelvic extension member presents a first surface and a second surface opposite to the first surface, and The pelvic support member or the pelvic extension member presents a hole extending from the corresponding first surface to the corresponding second surface.

24. The method of claim 15, wherein the trunk support member presents a first end and a second end opposite to the first end, the first end of the trunk support member extending from the first side of the pelvic support member. The head support extends from the second end of the torso support member, and The method further includes: Position the lifting pad on the first surface of the pelvic support member; and The patient is positioned on the positioning elevation pad, the height of which is defined in response to the difference between the patient's height and the position of the head support.

25. The method of claim 15, further comprising alternately rotating the pelvic support member about a position rotation axis: Upright angle range; as well as The range of leaning angles, which differs from the range of upright angles, The method further includes: The pelvic support member is rotated about the axis of rotation of the position by a predetermined angle within the tilt angle range; Positioning the lift pad on the first surface of the pelvic support member, and after rotating it within the predetermined angle range, positioning the patient on the positioned lift pad; and After the patient is positioned, the pelvic support member is rotated about the axis of rotation of the position to a predetermined angle within the range of the upright angle.

26. The method of claim 13, wherein the first surface of the pelvic support member defines a plane, and the second leg support member extends along the plane when the at least one connecting member of the second leg support member is positioned within the at least one receiving portion of the pelvic support member.

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