Scatter radiation shielding undergarment for radiotherapy

Abstract

Disclosed is a scattered radiation shielding underwear for radiotherapy. The scattered radiation shielding underwear for radiotherapy according to an embodiment of the present invention includes an outer underwear formed of a first shielding material and an inner underwear formed of a second shielding material, wherein the first shielding material has a greater atomic number than the second shielding material, and thus, the outer underwear can shield scattered radiation generated by high-energy radiation and the inner underwear can shield bremsstrahlung radiation during radiotherapy, and can almost completely block exposure of a patient to scattered radiation and bremsstrahlung radiation.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to radiation shielding underwear for radiotherapy, and more particularly to such radiation shielding underwear for radiotherapy that shields against scattered rays and blocks radiation generated during radiotherapy due to high-energy radiation, thereby preventing unnecessary exposure of the patient in order to prevent cancer. Background Technology

[0002] Early diagnosis through medical examinations has made early diagnosis of tumors possible, increasing the number of patients who simultaneously undergo surgery and chemotherapy or radiation therapy. Due to the increased number of targets for radiation therapy and the development of radiation therapy equipment, most cancer patients now receive radiation therapy. In radiation therapy, normal tissues should be irradiated with the minimum possible radiation dose, and high-energy doses of radiation should be concentrated on the tumor to increase treatment effectiveness.

[0003] When using high-energy radiation during radiotherapy, important factors to consider are the surface dose to the patient and the amount of the prescribed dose to the tumor. This is because even low radiation doses can cause random disturbances and potentially shorten a patient's lifespan during radiotherapy; therefore, to ensure the rationality of radiation exposure, the patient's exposure to radiation should be minimized as much as possible outside the treatment site.

[0004] Scattered radiation from medical linear accelerators is caused by the aperture, filters, air, and the subject. Radiation emitted from the radiation source is scattered by surrounding matter before reaching the patient. Even low radiation doses to the surrounding environment (excluding the irradiated surface) can increase the stochastic effects on the patient compared to the radiation dose to the irradiated surface.

[0005] In other words, the scattered rays generated during radiotherapy may lead to secondary radiation exposure to organs and tissues other than the target area being treated. Recently, shielding tools for reducing radiation exposure have primarily been used to protect hospital staff from radiation. Furthermore, there is a lack of protection for patients from radiation.

[0006] In this regard, Korean Patent No. 1967664 (hereinafter referred to as 'Related Art Document') discloses a protector for medical imaging. The protector for medical imaging in the Related Art Document includes a shielding unit and a gap-maintaining member. The shielding unit includes a contrast material, and the gap-maintaining member is attached to the bottom surface of the shielding unit and configured to separate the shielding unit from the body part by a specified gap. The thickness of the gap-maintaining member is 10 to 40 mm.

[0007] The advantage of the protectors used in medical imaging described in the relevant technical literature is that, during medical imaging such as computed tomography (CT) scans, routine X-ray examinations, or fluoroscopy, the use of shielding units comprising contrast materials that can shield radiation can effectively protect specific body parts of patients with high radiation sensitivity, such as the breasts, thyroid, lens, or gonads in women.

[0008] The shielding unit can be manufactured to deform according to the patient's body bending capacity and can be deformed into various shapes. Furthermore, adhesive elements, such as tape, are disposed on the bottom surface of the gap-holding member, thus securing the gap-holding member to the skin. However, as the amount of deformation of the elastic material increases, the elastic recovery of the elastic material also increases. Moreover, there are certain limitations to the adhesiveness of the tape. Therefore, when the shielding unit is deformed to fit a protrusion (such as a woman's breast), the portion of the shielding unit attached to the protrusion easily separates from the protrusion due to the elastic recovery of the material.

[0009] Various types of radiation, such as high-energy photon beams, electron beams, proton beams, and heavy ion beams, are used in radiotherapy. Furthermore, the properties of scattered rays vary depending on the type of radiation. Therefore, different shields can be used to effectively shield scattered rays depending on the type of radiation.

[0010] Braking radiation is the electromagnetic radiation produced when a charged particle (such as an electron) is deflected by another charged particle (such as an atomic nucleus), causing the charged particle to slow down. When an atomic nucleus attracts and deflects beta (β) rays and thus changes its acceleration, it releases a photon with energy equal to the energy difference produced by the change in the acceleration of the beta (β) rays.

[0011] Negatively charged (-1) beta rays are attracted to positively charged (+) atomic nuclei. That is, the beta rays are deflected towards the nucleus and their kinetic energy decreases. As a result, the emission of braking radiation equals the energy difference.

[0012] When materials with high atomic numbers, such as lead (82Pb), tungsten (74W), bismuth (83Bi), barium (56Ba), cadmium (48Cd), tin (50Sn), and bismuth alloys (bismuth, cadmium, tin, lead, and indium), are used as high-energy radiation shields, the deflection of beta rays increases, and therefore, the probability of braking radiation increases. However, when materials with high atomic numbers are used as high-energy radiation shields, the protective devices for medical imaging described in relevant technical literature cannot prevent exposure to braking radiation.

[0013] Conversely, in the case of low-energy radiation, scattered rays can be effectively shielded using only materials with low atomic numbers, such as beryllium (4Be), aluminum (13Al), copper (29Cu), zinc (30Zn), water, paraffin, and polyethylene. This is because when beta rays react with materials with high atomic numbers, the beta rays release a greater amount of braking X-rays (braking radiation).

[0014] Therefore, materials with low atomic numbers should be used to shield beta rays in order to reduce the conversion rate to braking X-rays. However, even when materials with low atomic numbers are used as low-energy radiation shields, the protectors for medical imaging described in relevant technical literature cannot completely prevent exposure to the small amounts of braking X-rays produced. Summary of the Invention

[0015] [Technical Issues]

[0016] Therefore, the present invention was made in view of the above-mentioned problems, and the object of the present invention is to provide a scattering radiation shielding undergarment for radiotherapy, which can shield scattering radiation and block braking radiation generated during radiotherapy due to high-energy radiation.

[0017] Another object of the present invention is to provide a radiation shielding undergarment for radiotherapy that can securely maintain the shielding form of a woman's breasts during radiotherapy of body parts near the breasts (such as the liver, pancreas, spleen, kidneys, cervical spine, lumbar region, head, and neck) and can be easily released after radiotherapy.

[0018] Furthermore, another object of the present invention is to provide a radiation shielding undergarment for radiotherapy that can almost completely prevent a woman’s breasts from being exposed to braking radiation and braking X-rays generated during radiotherapy of body parts near the breasts due to high-energy and low-energy radiation.

[0019] [Technical Solution]

[0020] According to one aspect of the invention, the above and other objectives can be achieved by providing a radiation shielding undergarment for radiotherapy, the radiation shielding undergarment comprising an outer undergarment formed of a first shielding material and an inner undergarment formed of a second shielding material.

[0021] Furthermore, in order to achieve the above and other objectives, in a scattering radiation shielding garment according to one aspect of the present invention, the first shielding material may have a higher atomic number than the second shielding material.

[0022] Furthermore, in order to achieve the above and other objectives, in a radiation-shielding undergarment according to one aspect of the present invention, the outer undergarment may include an outer top and an outer bottom.

[0023] Furthermore, in order to achieve the above and other objectives, in a radiation-shielding undergarment according to one aspect of the present invention, the inner undergarment may include an inner top and an inner bottom.

[0024] Furthermore, in order to achieve the above and other objectives, the radiation-shielding underwear according to one aspect of the invention may further include a first connecting member connected between the outer top and the inner top to maintain the overlapping state between the outer top and the inner top.

[0025] Furthermore, in order to achieve the above and other objectives, the radiation-shielding underwear according to one aspect of the invention may further include a second connecting member connected between the outer and inner garments to maintain the overlapping state between the outer and inner garments.

[0026] Furthermore, in order to achieve the above and other objectives, the radiation-shielding underwear according to one aspect of the invention may further include a third connecting structure connected between the upper garment and the lower garment in order to maintain the connection between the upper garment and the lower garment.

[0027] Furthermore, in order to achieve the above and other objectives, in a scattering radiation shielding underwear according to one aspect of the invention, a third connecting member may be connected between the outer top and the inner bottom to maintain the overlapping state between the outer top and the inner bottom.

[0028] Furthermore, in order to achieve the above and other objectives, in a scattering radiation shielding underwear according to one aspect of the invention, a third connecting member may be connected between the inner top and the outer bottom to maintain the overlapping state between the inner top and the outer bottom.

[0029] Furthermore, in order to achieve the above and other objectives, in a scattering radiation shielding underwear according to one aspect of the invention, the third connecting member may be a Velcro strip configured to extend in the vertical direction in order to adjust the height of the connecting area therebetween.

[0030] Furthermore, in order to achieve the above and other objectives, the radiation-shielding underwear according to one aspect of the invention may further include a fourth connecting member disposed on the outer surface of the outer garment and configured to fold the lower part of the outer garment to maintain its overlap with the upper part of the outer garment.

[0031] Furthermore, in order to achieve the above and other objectives, in a scattering radiation shielding underwear according to one aspect of the invention, the fourth connecting member may be a plurality of Velcro straps spaced apart from each other in the vertical direction in order to adjust the height of the connecting area therebetween.

[0032] Furthermore, in order to achieve the above and other objectives, in a scattering radiation shielding underwear according to one aspect of the invention, the fourth connecting member may be a Velcro strap configured to extend in the vertical direction in order to adjust the height of the connecting area therebetween.

[0033] Furthermore, in order to achieve the above and other objectives, in the scattering radiation shielding underwear according to one aspect of the invention, the first shielding material may be a material selected from a first group consisting of elements having high atomic numbers, including lead, tungsten, bismuth, barium, cadmium and tin, bismuth alloys, and combinations thereof.

[0034] Furthermore, in order to achieve the above and other objectives, in a scattering radiation shielding underwear according to one aspect of the invention, the outer underwear may be formed of a first film fabric, which is formed by stacking films, the films being formed of the same or different materials selected from a first group.

[0035] Furthermore, in order to achieve the above and other objectives, in a scattering radiation shielding underwear according to one aspect of the invention, the outer underwear may be formed of a first woven fabric woven from yarns formed of the same or different materials selected from a first group.

[0036] Furthermore, in order to achieve the above and other objectives, in a scattering radiation shielding underwear according to one aspect of the invention, the first woven fabric may include one or more first coatings, the one or more first coatings being formed of a material selected from a first group other than the selected material.

[0037] Furthermore, in order to achieve the above and other objectives, in the scattering radiation shielding underwear according to one aspect of the invention, the second shielding material may be a material selected from a second group consisting of elements having low atomic numbers, including beryllium, aluminum, copper and zinc, paraffin wax, plastics, and combinations thereof.

[0038] Furthermore, in order to achieve the above and other objectives, in a scattering radiation shielding underwear according to one aspect of the invention, the inner underwear may be formed of a second film fabric, which is formed by stacking films, the films being formed of the same or different materials selected from a second group.

[0039] Furthermore, in order to achieve the above and other objectives, in a scattering radiation shielding underwear according to one aspect of the invention, the inner underwear may be formed of a second woven fabric woven from yarns formed of the same or different materials selected from a second group.

[0040] Furthermore, in order to achieve the above and other objectives, in a scattering radiation shielding underwear according to one aspect of the invention, the second woven fabric may include one or more second coatings, the one or more second coatings being formed of materials selected from the second group other than the selected materials.

[0041] Furthermore, in order to achieve the above and other objectives, the radiation-shielding underwear according to one aspect of the invention may further include a neck strap comprising an outer strap and an inner strap, the outer strap being formed of a first shielding material and configured to encircle the neck to protect it, and the inner strap being connected to the outer strap and formed of a second shielding material.

[0042] Furthermore, in order to achieve the above and other objectives, the radiation shielding underwear according to one aspect of the present invention may further include a radiation shielding bra, wherein the radiation shielding principle for radiotherapy is applied to the radiation shielding bra.

[0043] In addition, to achieve the above and other objectives, the radiation shielding bra may include: a wearing member configured to surround the patient's chest and cover the patient's two breasts; a first shield detachably attached to the surface of the wearing member and configured to cover the patient's two breasts; and a second shield detachably attached to the surface of the first shield and configured to cover the patient's two breasts.

[0044] In addition, to achieve the above and other objectives, one of the first shield and the second shield may include a material with a relatively high atomic number, and the remaining one of the first shield and the second shield may include a material with a relatively low atomic number.

[0045] In addition, to achieve the above and other objectives, the first shield may include shield 1A and shield 1B, shield 1A being configured to cover one of the patient's breasts and shield 1B being configured to cover the remaining one of the patient's breasts, at least one of shield 1A and shield 1B being able to cover a portion of the patient's body between the two breasts.

[0046] In addition, to achieve the above and other objectives, the second shield may include shield 2A and shield 2B, shield 2A being configured to cover one of the patient's breasts, shield 2B being configured to cover the remaining one of the patient's breasts, and at least one of shield 2A and shield 2B being able to cover the portion of the patient's body between the two breasts.

[0047] In addition, to achieve the above and other purposes, the wearable component may include a back attached to the patient's back, a first front portion configured to cover one of the patient's breasts and attached to the back, and a second front portion configured to cover the remaining one of the patient's breasts and attached to the back, the first and second front portions being detachably connected by a connecting member between the patient's two breasts, and a first shield covering the connecting member.

[0048] In addition, to achieve the above and other objectives, the radiation shielding bra may further include shoulder straps configured such that one end of each strap is connected to a wearing component below the patient's breast and the remaining end of each strap is detachably connected to the back, and the position of the corresponding breast of the patient can be adjusted by adjusting the connection position of the remaining end of each shoulder strap to the back.

[0049] In addition, to achieve the above and other purposes, a first Velcro strap may be provided on the back, a second Velcro strap detachably connected to the first Velcro strap may be provided on the remaining end of the shoulder strap, and a third Velcro strap detachably connected to the second Velcro strap may be provided on the remaining end of the shoulder strap.

[0050] Furthermore, to achieve the aforementioned and other objectives, a fourth Velcro strap may be positioned on one side of the remaining end of each of the shoulder straps based on a corresponding one of the second Velcro straps, and a fifth Velcro strap may be positioned on the other side of the remaining end of each of the shoulder straps based on a corresponding one of the second Velcro straps. The detachable connection between the fourth and fifth Velcro straps allows for the selective maintenance of the rolled-up state of the remaining end of each shoulder strap in the longitudinal direction.

[0051] [Beneficial Effects]

[0052] According to one aspect of the invention, a radiation shielding undergarment comprises an outer undergarment formed of a first shielding material and an inner undergarment formed of a second shielding material, the first shielding material having a higher atomic number than the second shielding material, and thus, during radiotherapy, the outer undergarment can shield against radiation scattered due to high-energy radiation, and the inner undergarment can shield against braking radiation during radiotherapy, thereby almost completely preventing the patient from being exposed to radiation scattered and braking.

[0053] Furthermore, in the radiation shielding underwear according to one aspect of the invention, each of the outer and inner underwear may include a top and a bottom, so that the patient can easily put on and take off the outer and inner underwear, and can simply replace only the damaged parts.

[0054] Furthermore, the radiation shielding underwear according to one aspect of the invention may further include a connecting member configured to maintain an overlapping state between the outer underwear and the inner underwear, and thus maintain the connection state between the outer underwear and the inner underwear after the patient has put on the outer underwear and the inner underwear.

[0055] Furthermore, according to one aspect of the invention, the radiation-shielding underwear may further include a connecting member configured to maintain the connection between the upper garment and the lower garment, thereby preventing the patient's skin from being exposed due to the separation of the upper garment and the lower garment from each other.

[0056] Furthermore, in a radiation shielding undergarment according to one aspect of the invention, the connecting member configured to maintain the connection between the upper garment and the lower garment may be a Velcro strap, which is configured to extend in the vertical direction to adjust the height of the connecting area therebetween, and thus the height of the connecting area therebetween can be adjusted according to the patient's body shape.

[0057] Furthermore, according to one aspect of the invention, the scattering radiation shielding underwear may further include a fourth connecting member disposed on the outer surface of the outer underwear and configured to fold the lower part of the outer underwear to maintain its overlapping state with the upper part of the outer underwear. Thus, scattering radiation can be shielded while precisely adjusting the scattering radiation shielding area without interfering with radiotherapy at the radiotherapy site, and only the parts of the patient's body that require treatment can be exposed.

[0058] Furthermore, in a radiation shielding undergarment according to one aspect of the invention, the fourth connecting member may be a plurality of Velcro straps spaced apart from each other in the vertical direction to adjust the height of the connecting area therebetween, and thus to expose the part of the patient's body that needs treatment so as to have an appropriate size.

[0059] Furthermore, in a radiation shielding undergarment according to one aspect of the invention, the fourth connecting member may be a Velcro strap configured to extend vertically to adjust the height of the connecting area therebetween, and thus to expose the part of the patient's body that requires treatment, in order to have an appropriate size.

[0060] Furthermore, in a scattering radiation shielding underwear according to one aspect of the invention, each of the outer and inner underwear can be formed by cutting a thin film fabric, which is formed by stacking films made of the same or different materials, and thus can have excellent shielding performance and flexibility.

[0061] Furthermore, in a scattering radiation shielding undergarment according to one aspect of the invention, each of the outer and inner undergarments can be formed by cutting a woven fabric made of yarns formed from the same or different materials, and thus can have excellent shielding performance and flexibility.

[0062] Furthermore, in a scattering radiation shielding underwear according to one aspect of the invention, each of the outer and inner underwear can be formed by cutting a woven fabric made of yarns formed of the same or different materials, and includes one or more coatings formed of other materials, and thus can have excellent shielding performance and flexibility.

[0063] Furthermore, the radiation shielding underwear according to one aspect of the invention may further include an additional underwear that is attached to and separates from the inner surface of the inner underwear, and the additional underwear can shield radiation generated by the outer or inner underwear, and thus can almost completely prevent the patient from being exposed to various types of radiation.

[0064] Furthermore, according to one aspect of the invention, the radiation shielding underwear may further include an intermediate underwear located between the outer underwear and the inner underwear, and the intermediate underwear may shield the radiation emitted by the outer underwear, and thus may almost completely prevent the patient from being exposed to various types of radiation.

[0065] Furthermore, according to one aspect of the present invention, the radiation shielding underwear may further include an inner surface attached to the inner underwear and a wearable underwear separate from the inner surface of the inner underwear, and the wearable underwear can block cold air generated from the inner underwear and improve the patient's wearing comfort.

[0066] Furthermore, the radiation shielding underwear according to one aspect of the invention may further include a neck strap comprising an outer strap formed of a first shielding material and configured to encircle the neck to protect the neck, and an inner strap connected to the outer strap and formed of a second shielding material, thereby almost completely preventing the patient's neck from being exposed to radiation.

[0067] Furthermore, in a radiation shielding undergarment according to one aspect of the invention, a first shield can be detachably attached to the surface of a wearable member configured to cover both breasts of the patient, and a second shield can be detachably attached to the surface of the first shield, thus allowing the shielding of the female breasts to be securely maintained during radiation therapy of body parts near the breasts (such as the liver, pancreas, spleen, kidneys, cervical spine, lumbar spine, head and neck, etc.) and to be easily released after the radiation therapy is completed.

[0068] Furthermore, in a radiation shielding undergarment according to one aspect of the invention, one of the first shield and the second shield may comprise a material having a relatively high atomic number, and the remaining one of the first shield and the second shield may comprise a material having a relatively low atomic number, and thus, during radiotherapy of body parts near the breast, the breast can be almost completely protected from braking radiation and braking X-rays generated by high-energy and low-energy radiation. Attached Figure Description

[0069] Figure 1 This is a front view of a radiation shielding undergarment for radiotherapy according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0070] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 The exploded front view of the scattering ray shielding underwear shown.

[0071] Figure 3 It is used for manufacturing Figure 1 The image shows a perspective view of the first thin-film fabric of the outer layer of the scattering radiation shielding underwear.

[0072] Figure 4 It is used for manufacturing Figure 1 The diagram shows a perspective view of the first woven fabric of the outer layer of the ray-shielding underwear.

[0073] Figure 5 It is used for manufacturing Figure 1 The image shows a perspective view of the second thin-film fabric of the inner lining of the scattering radiation shielding underwear.

[0074] Figure 6 It is used for manufacturing Figure 1 The image shows a perspective view of the second woven fabric of the inner lining of the ray-scattering shielding underwear.

[0075] Figure 7 Examples of disposable underwear and mid-length underwear being added are shown. Figure 1 A partial cross-sectional view of the state of the scattering radiation shielding underwear shown.

[0076] Figure 8A fourth connecting member is illustrated, configured to fold and secure the outer underwear. Figure 2 Front and rear views of an embodiment of the neck strap of the radiation-shielding underwear shown.

[0077] Figure 9 A fourth connecting member is illustrated, configured to fold and secure the outer underwear. Figure 2 Front and rear views of another embodiment of the neck strap of the scattering ray shielding underwear shown.

[0078] Figure 10 It shows when Figure 8 and Figure 9 The diagram shows a view of the shielded and exposed portions of the patient's body when the outer layer of the radiation shielding underwear is folded and secured.

[0079] Figure 11 It shows when Figure 8 and Figure 9 The diagram shows a view of the shielded and exposed portions of the patient's bones when the outer layer of the radiation shielding underwear is folded and secured.

[0080] Figure 12 It shows Figure 1 Views of various types of outer underwear showing radiation-shielding underwear.

[0081] Figure 13 It shows a view of the radiotherapy equipment and examination table.

[0082] Figure 14 This is a front view of a scattering ray shielding bra that applies the radiation shielding principle for radiotherapy according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0083] Figure 15 yes Figure 14 The image shown is a rear view of a radiation shielding bra used in radiotherapy, based on the principle of radiation shielding.

[0084] Figure 16 yes Figure 14 The image shows a side view of a radiation shielding bra used in radiotherapy, based on the principle of radiation shielding.

[0085] Figure 17 It shows the first and second shields from Figure 14 The image shows a front view of a radiation shielding bra used in radiotherapy, with the wearer's components removed.

[0086] Figure 18 yes Figure 17 The image shows a side view of a radiation shielding bra used in radiotherapy, based on the principle of radiation shielding.

[0087] Figure 19a It shows Figure 15 The diagram shows a perspective view of the other end of the shoulder strap of a radiation shielding bra used in radiotherapy, based on the principle of radiation shielding.

[0088] Figure 19b It shows Figure 15 The perspective view shown is of a scattering ray shielding bra with one end of the shoulder strap detachably attached to the back, which is used for radiation shielding principles in radiotherapy.

[0089] Figure 19c It shows Figure 18 The diagram shows a perspective view of the bra with the other end of the shoulder strap rolled up in the longitudinal direction, representing the radiation shielding principle used in radiotherapy.

[0090] Figure 20 It shows the first shield attached to Figure 17 The image shows a front view of the wearable components of a radiation shielding bra, which utilizes the principle of radiation shielding for radiotherapy.

[0091] Figure 21 yes Figure 20 The image shows a side view of a radiation shielding bra used in radiotherapy, based on the principle of radiation shielding.

[0092] Figure 22 It shows the second shield attached to Figure 20 The image shows a front view of the first shield of a radiation shielding chest, which is used in radiation therapy based on the principle of radiation shielding.

[0093] *Description of figures and reference numerals in the main parts of the attached figures*

[0094] 10: Radiation shielding underwear used for radiotherapy; 100: Outer underwear

[0095] 110: First film fabric 111: Film

[0096] 112: Film 120: First woven fabric

[0097] 121: First yarn; 122: Second yarn

[0098] 123: First coating 130: Outer garment

[0099] 140: Outer bottoms; 200: Inner underwear

[0100] 210: Second film fabric 211: Film

[0101] 212: Film 220: Second woven fabric

[0102] 221: Third yarn 222: Fourth yarn

[0103] 223: Second coating 230: Inner top

[0104] 240: Inner lower garment; 300: First connecting component

[0105] 310: First Velcro strap; 320: Second Velcro strap

[0106] 400: Second connecting member; 410: Third Velcro strap

[0107] 420: Fourth Velcro strap; 500: Third connecting component.

[0108] 510: Fifth Velcro strap; 520: Sixth Velcro strap

[0109] 600: Fourth connecting component; 610: Seventh Velcro strap.

[0110] 620: Eighth Velcro strap; 700: Middle underwear

[0111] 800: Additional underwear; 900: Neckband

[0112] 910: External belt; 920: Internal belt

[0113] 930: Fifth connecting component; 931: Ninth Velcro strap

[0114] 932: Tenth Velcro strap 1000: Wearing underwear

[0115] 1100: Disposable underwear 2: Examination table

[0116] 3: Radiation therapy equipment 10A: Bra

[0117] 100A: Wearable component; 200A: First protective shield

[0118] 110A: Backrest 210A: Shield 1A

[0119] 120A: Front 220A: Protective shield 1B

[0120] 121A: First front part V1A: Accessory nylon hook and loop strap 1A

[0121] 122A: Second front part V1B: Accessory nylon hook and loop strap 1B

[0122] 130A: Connecting component; 400A: Shoulder strap

[0123] 140A: Shoulder strap; 410A: First shoulder strap

[0124] 141A: First shoulder strap; 420A: Second shoulder strap

[0125] 142A: Second shoulder VC1: First Velcro strap

[0126] 300A: Second protective cover; VC2: Second Velcro strap.

[0127] 310A: Protective cover 2A VC3: Third nylon hook and loop strap

[0128] 320A: Protective Cover 2B VC4: Fourth Nylon Fastener Strip

[0129] V2A: Attached nylon hook and loop fastener 2A VC5: Fifth nylon hook and loop fastener

[0130] V2B: Accessory Velcro strap 2B Detailed Implementation

[0131] The following description will refer in detail to exemplary embodiments of the present invention, examples of which are illustrated in the accompanying drawings.

[0132] However, in the following description of embodiments of the invention, detailed descriptions of known functions and configurations contained herein will be omitted where they might make the subject matter of the invention rather unclear.

[0133] like Figure 13 As shown, during radiotherapy, the patient lies on the examination table 2, and radiation emitted by the radiotherapy device 3 is applied to the patient's lesion site.

[0134] refer to Figure 1 The radiation shielding underwear 10 for radiotherapy according to the present invention includes an outer underwear 100 formed of a first shielding material and an inner underwear 200 formed of a second shielding material.

[0135] The first shielding material has a higher atomic number than the second shielding material.

[0136] Since there is usually a linear relationship between radiation shielding and density, radiation shielding performance increases with increasing density, and materials with a density higher than that of the second shielding material can be used as the first shielding material.

[0137] The radiation shielding underwear 10 for radiotherapy can be used by both men and women and can be manufactured in various types as needed.

[0138] The radiation shielding underwear 10 used for radiotherapy is flexible and can deform according to the location of the patient to be treated.

[0139] In the radiation shielding underwear 10 for radiotherapy, the outer underwear 100 can shield the radiation scattered by high-energy radiation during radiotherapy, and the inner underwear 200 can shield the braking radiation. Therefore, the radiation shielding underwear 10 for radiotherapy can almost completely prevent the patient from being exposed to radiation scattered and braking radiation.

[0140] Radiation shielding underwear 10 used for radiotherapy can wrap around the patient's body to protect highly radiation-sensitive reproductive organs or major organs of the body, such as the heart, lungs, liver, pancreas, stomach, kidneys, muscles, skin, bone marrow, etc.

[0141] The radiation shielding underwear 10 for radiotherapy has increased thickness in sections located on highly radiation-sensitive reproductive organs or major bodily organs (such as the heart, lungs, liver, pancreas, stomach, kidneys, muscles, skin, bone marrow, etc.), thereby increasing the protective effect.

[0142] refer to Figure 1 and Figure 2 The outer underwear 100 is an element configured to shield against scattered rays generated by high-energy radiation during radiotherapy.

[0143] The outer underwear 100 may be formed of a first shielding material that can shield against scattered rays generated during radiotherapy due to high-energy radiation.

[0144] The first shielding material can be formed from a substance with a higher atomic number than the second shielding material.

[0145] The first shielding material may be a material selected from the first group of elements with high atomic numbers, including lead (82Pb), tungsten (74W), bismuth (83Bi), barium (56Ba), cadmium (48Cd) and tin (50Sn), bismuth alloys (bismuth, cadmium, tin, lead and indium) and combinations thereof.

[0146] refer to Figure 3 The outer underwear 100 can be obtained by cutting the first thin film fabric 110.

[0147] The first film fabric 110 can be formed by stacking a plurality of films 111 and 112 formed from materials selected from the first group.

[0148] Each of the materials selected from the first group can form one of thin films 111 and 112.

[0149] The first film fabric 110 can be formed by stacking several films 111 and 112 formed from materials selected from the first group.

[0150] The first film fabric 110 can be formed by stacking several films 111 and 112 made of the same material selected from the first group, or by stacking several films 111 and 112 made of different materials selected from the first group.

[0151] When the first film fabric 110 is formed by stacking several films 111 and 112 made of the same or different materials, each of the films 111 and 112 can be formed by stacking several identical films 111 or films 112.

[0152] The durability of the first film fabric 110 can be improved when it is formed by stacking several films 111 and 112 made of the same or different materials.

[0153] When the first thin film fabric 110 is formed by stacking several thin films 111 and 112 made of different materials, the effect of shielding scattered rays can be obtained from all the materials that form the corresponding thin films 111 and 112.

[0154] The first film fabric 110 is formed by stacking multiple films 111 and 112, thus enabling it to be flexible.

[0155] refer to Figure 4 The outer underwear 100 can be obtained by cutting the first woven fabric 120.

[0156] The first woven fabric 120 can be made by weaving yarns formed from materials selected from the first group.

[0157] The first woven fabric 120 can be formed by weaving a first yarn 121 and a second yarn 122.

[0158] Each of the materials selected from the first group can be used to form a yarn.

[0159] One or more strands of yarn can be formed into yarn for weaving the first woven fabric 120.

[0160] The first woven fabric 120 can be formed by weaving yarns made of the same materials selected from the first group, or by weaving yarns made of different materials selected from the first group.

[0161] The yarn used for weaving the first woven fabric 120 is formed by twisting together several strands of yarn made of the same material selected from the first group, or it may be formed by several strands of yarn made of different materials selected from the first group.

[0162] The first woven fabric 120 can be formed by weaving yarns made of the same material, or by weaving yarns made of different materials.

[0163] When a first woven fabric 120 is formed by weaving yarns formed by twisting multiple strands of yarns made of the same or different materials, the durability of the first woven fabric 120 can be improved.

[0164] When the first woven fabric 120 is formed by weaving yarns made of different materials, the effect of shielding scattered rays can be obtained from all the materials that form the corresponding yarns.

[0165] The first woven fabric 120 is formed by weaving fine yarns and can therefore be flexible.

[0166] The first coating 123 may be formed on one or both surfaces of the first woven fabric 120.

[0167] The first coating 123 is an element configured to shield scattered rays passing through the space between the yarns forming the first woven fabric 120.

[0168] The first coating 123 can be formed to cover the entire surface or both surfaces of the first woven fabric 120.

[0169] The first coating 123 can seal the space between the yarns forming the first woven fabric 120.

[0170] The first coating 123 may be formed of a material different from the yarn material that forms the first woven fabric 120.

[0171] The first coating 123 can be formed by stacking multiple coatings made of the same material or different materials.

[0172] When the first coating 123 is formed on the two surfaces of the first woven fabric 120, the first coating 123 formed on the two surfaces of the first woven fabric 120 can be formed from different materials.

[0173] When the first coating 123 is formed of a material different from the material of the yarn forming the first woven fabric 120, the effect of shielding scattered rays of all the corresponding materials can be obtained.

[0174] refer to Figure 1 and Figure 2 The inner underwear 200 is a component configured to shield against braking radiation generated by high-energy radiation during radiotherapy.

[0175] The inner underwear 200 is located inside the outer underwear 100, and its size can be made smaller than that of the outer underwear 100.

[0176] The inner underwear 200 can be made of a second shielding material that can shield against braking radiation caused by high-energy radiation during radiotherapy.

[0177] The second shielding material can be formed from substances with atomic numbers less than those of the first shielding material.

[0178] The second shielding material may be a material selected from the second group, which consists of elements with low atomic numbers, including beryllium (4Be), aluminum (13Al), copper (29Cu) and zinc (30Zn), water, paraffin wax, plastics including polyethylene, and combinations thereof.

[0179] As disclosed in Korean Patent No. 1967664 and Japanese Patent No. 2015-225062, shields that include elements with high atomic numbers and elements with low atomic numbers are known, so their manufacturing methods will be omitted.

[0180] refer to Figure 5 The inner underwear 200 can be obtained by cutting the second film fabric 210.

[0181] The second film fabric 210 can be formed by stacking a plurality of films 211 and 212 formed from materials selected from the second group.

[0182] Each of the materials selected from the second group can form one of thin films 211 and 212.

[0183] The second film fabric 210 can be formed by stacking several films 211 and 212 made of materials selected from the second group.

[0184] The second film fabric 210 can be formed by stacking several films 211 and 212 made of the same material selected from the second group, or by stacking several films 211 and 212 made of different materials selected from the second group.

[0185] When the second film fabric 210 is formed by stacking several films 211 and 212 made of different materials, each of the films 211 and 212 can be formed by stacking several identical films 211 or films 212.

[0186] The durability of the second film fabric 210 can be improved when it is formed by stacking several films 211 and 212 made of the same or different materials.

[0187] When the second thin film fabric 210 is formed by stacking several thin films 211 and 212 made of different materials, the effect of shielding scattered rays can be obtained from all the materials that form the corresponding thin films 211 and 212.

[0188] The second film fabric 210 is formed by stacking multiple films 211 and 212, thus enabling it to be flexible.

[0189] refer to Figure 6 The inner underwear 200 can be obtained by cutting the second woven fabric 220.

[0190] The inner underwear 200 can be changed after the patient has used it.

[0191] The second woven fabric 220 can be made by weaving yarns formed from materials selected from the second group.

[0192] The second woven fabric 220 can be formed by weaving the third yarn 221 and the fourth yarn 222.

[0193] Each of the materials selected from the second group can be used to form a yarn.

[0194] One or more strands of yarn can be formed into yarn for weaving the second woven fabric 220.

[0195] The second woven fabric 220 can be formed by weaving yarns made of the same materials selected from the second group, or by weaving yarns made of different materials selected from the second group.

[0196] The yarn used for weaving the second woven fabric 220 is formed by twisting together several strands of yarn made of the same material selected from the second group, or it can be formed by several strands of yarn made of different materials selected from the second group.

[0197] The second woven fabric 220 can be formed by weaving yarns made of the same material, or by weaving yarns made of different materials.

[0198] When the second woven fabric 220 is formed by weaving yarns formed by twisting multiple strands of yarns made of the same or different materials, the durability of the second woven fabric 220 can be improved.

[0199] When the first woven fabric 220 is formed by weaving yarns made of different materials, the effect of shielding scattered rays can be obtained from all the materials that form the corresponding yarns.

[0200] The second woven fabric 220 is formed by weaving fine yarns and can therefore be flexible.

[0201] The second coating 123 can be formed on one or both surfaces of the second woven fabric 220.

[0202] The second coating 123 is an element configured to shield scattered rays passing through the space between the yarns forming the second woven fabric 220.

[0203] The second coating 123 can be formed to cover the entire surface or both surfaces of the second woven fabric 220.

[0204] The second coating 123 can close the space between the yarns forming the second woven fabric 220.

[0205] The second coating 123 may be formed of a material different from the yarn that forms the second woven fabric 220.

[0206] The second coating 123 can be formed by stacking multiple coatings made of the same material or different materials.

[0207] When the second coating 123 is formed on both surfaces of the second woven fabric 220, the second coating 123 formed on the two surfaces of the second woven fabric 220 can be formed from different materials.

[0208] When the second coating 123 is formed of a material different from the material of the yarn forming the second woven fabric 120, the shielding effect of all the corresponding materials on scattered rays can be obtained.

[0209] refer to Figure 2 The outer underwear 100 may include an outer top 130 and an outer bottom 140, and the inner underwear 200 may include an inner top 230 and an inner bottom 240.

[0210] The outer underwear 130 and inner underwear 230 can be provided in various forms, such as T-shirts, sleeveless shirts and vests.

[0211] Outer bottoms 140 and inner bottoms 240 can be provided in various forms, such as briefs and boxer shorts.

[0212] When each of the outer underwear 100 and the inner underwear 200 includes a top and bottom, the patient may choose to wear only the necessary elements, or may choose to wear all elements.

[0213] When each of the outer underwear 100 and the inner underwear 200 includes a top and a bottom, the patient can put on and take off the radiation shielding underwear.

[0214] When the outer underwear 100 includes an outer top 130 and an outer bottom 140, the person in charge can simply clean or replace the damaged parts of the radiation shielding underwear, and thus the radiation shielding underwear can be easily managed and its maintenance costs can be reduced.

[0215] refer to Figure 2The radiation-shielding underwear may further include a first connecting member 300 and a second connecting member 400, which are configured to maintain the overlapping state between the outer underwear 100 and the inner underwear 200.

[0216] When each of the outer underwear 100 and the inner underwear 200 includes a top and a bottom, the radiation shielding underwear may further include a first connecting member 300 configured to maintain an overlap between the outer top and the inner top, and a second connecting member 400 configured to maintain an overlap between the outer bottom and the inner bottom.

[0217] The first connecting member 300 and the second connecting member 400 can be formed of an air-equivalent material.

[0218] Air equivalent materials refer to materials that have the same effective atomic number as air and exhibit the same ionization with respect to radiation as air. Air equivalent materials include graphite, paper, and special plastics.

[0219] When the first connecting member 300 and the second connecting member 400 are formed of an air-equivalent material, the first connecting member 300 and the second connecting member 400 exhibit the same ionization of radiation as air and have little effect on scattered rays.

[0220] The first connecting member 300 is connected between the outer top 130 and the inner top 230 to maintain the overlapping state between the outer top 130 and the inner top 230.

[0221] One or more first connecting members 300 may be provided, and the one or more first connecting members 300 are distributed between the outer garment 130 and the inner garment 230.

[0222] The first connecting member 300 may be one or more buttons or Velcro straps that connect to the outer garment 130 and the inner garment 230.

[0223] The Velcro strap used as the first connecting member 300 may include a first Velcro strap 310 connected to the inner surface of the outer garment 130 and a second Velcro strap 320 connected to the outer surface of the inner garment 230.

[0224] The second connecting member 400 is connected between the outer lower garment 140 and the inner lower garment 240 to maintain the overlapping state between the outer lower garment 140 and the inner lower garment 240.

[0225] One or more second connecting members 400 may be provided, and one or more second connecting members 300 may be disposed in a distributed manner between the outer lower garment 140 and the inner lower garment 240.

[0226] The second connecting member 400 may be one or more buttons or Velcro straps that connect to the outer trousers 140 and the inner trousers 240.

[0227] The Velcro strap used as the second connecting member 400 may include a third Velcro strap 410 connected to the inner surface of the outer garment 140 and a fourth Velcro strap 420 connected to the outer surface of the inner garment 240.

[0228] refer to Figure 2 When each of the outer underwear 100 and the inner underwear 200 includes a top and a bottom, the radiation-shielding underwear may include a third connecting member 500 configured to maintain an overlap between the top and the bottom.

[0229] The third connecting member 500 can be formed of an air-equivalent material.

[0230] When the third connecting member 500 is formed of an air-equivalent material, the third connecting member 500 exhibits the same ionization of radiation as air and has little effect on scattered rays.

[0231] When radiation therapy is performed on a patient's head, etc., if the outer and inner garments are not connected, the part of the patient's body exposed between the garments may not be shielded from scattered rays and braking radiation. Therefore, the third connecting member 500 is a component configured to solve this problem.

[0232] The third connecting member 500 can be connected between the outer top 130 or the inner top 230 and the outer bottom 140 or the inner bottom 240 to maintain the connection between the outer top 130 or the inner top 230 and the outer bottom 140 or the inner bottom 240.

[0233] Multiple third connecting members 500 can be provided, and the multiple third connecting members 500 can be distributed between the outer top 130 or inner top 230 and the outer bottom 140 or inner bottom 240.

[0234] The third connection component 500 can be multiple buttons, zippers, or Velcro straps that connect to the top and bottom.

[0235] The zipper used as a third connection component 500 can be connected between the bottom of the top and the top of the bottom.

[0236] When the top covers the bottom, the Velcro strap used as the third connecting member 500 may include a fifth Velcro strap 510 attached to the inner surface of the inner top 230 and a sixth Velcro strap 520 attached to the outer surface of the outer bottom 140.

[0237] When the bottom covers the top, the Velcro strap used as the third connecting member 500 may include a fifth Velcro strap 510 connected to the outer surface of the outer top 230 and a sixth Velcro strap 520 connected to the inner surface of the inner bottom 240.

[0238] The third connecting member 500 may be a Velcro strip, which is configured to extend vertically to adjust the height of the connecting area therebetween.

[0239] When the fifth nylon hook and loop fastener 510 and the sixth nylon hook and loop fastener 520 are formed to extend in the vertical direction, the height of the connection area between the fifth nylon hook and loop fastener 510 and the sixth nylon hook and loop fastener 520 can be adjusted according to the size of the patient's body.

[0240] refer to Figures 8 to 11 When each of the outer underwear 100 and the inner underwear 200 includes a top and a bottom, the radiation-shielding underwear may include a fourth connecting member 600 configured to fold the lower part of the top in order to maintain its overlap with the upper part of the top.

[0241] The fourth connecting member 600 is an element configured to connect the lower and upper parts of the outer garment 130.

[0242] When the outer underwear 100 is folded, the inner underwear 200 connected to it via the third connecting member 500 can be folded together.

[0243] The fourth connecting member 600 may be formed of an air-equivalent material.

[0244] When the fourth connecting member 600 is formed of an air-equivalent material, the fourth connecting member 600 exhibits the same ionization of radiation as air and has little effect on scattered rays.

[0245] The fourth connecting member 600 can expose only the parts of the patient's body that require treatment.

[0246] The fourth connecting member 600 can maintain the folded state of the lower part of the garment in order to prevent the folded lower part of the garment from unfolding and covering the patient's abdomen during radiotherapy.

[0247] The fourth connecting member 600 may include one or more buttons or Velcro straps that are connected to the lower and upper parts of the outer garment 130.

[0248] The Velcro strap used as the fourth connecting member 600 may include a seventh Velcro strap 610 attached to the lower part of the outer surface of the outer garment 130 and an eighth Velcro strap 620 attached to the upper part of the outer surface of the outer garment 130.

[0249] The seventh Velcro strap 610 and the eighth Velcro strap 620 can be attached to the front or back surface of the outer garment 130.

[0250] The seventh Velcro strap 610 and the eighth Velcro strap 620 can be attached to the front and back surfaces of the outer garment 130.

[0251] The plurality of seventh Velcro straps 610 used as the fourth connecting member 600 can be arranged to be spaced apart from each other in the vertical direction.

[0252] The folding height of the garment can be adjusted when one of the multiple seventh Velcro straps 610 is selected and attached to the eighth Velcro strap 620.

[0253] The plurality of eighth Velcro straps 620 used as the fourth connecting member 600 can be arranged to be spaced apart from each other in the vertical direction.

[0254] The folding height of the garment can be adjusted when one of the multiple eighth Velcro straps 620 is selected and attached to the seventh Velcro strap 610.

[0255] The plurality of seventh Velcro straps 610 and the plurality of eighth Velcro straps 620 used as the fourth connecting member 600 can be arranged to be spaced apart from each other in the vertical direction.

[0256] The folding height of the garment can be adjusted when one of the multiple seventh Velcro straps 610 is selected and attached to one of the eighth Velcro straps 620.

[0257] The fourth connecting member 600 may be a Velcro strip, which is configured to extend vertically to adjust the height of the connecting area therebetween.

[0258] When the seventh Velcro strap 610 and the eighth Velcro strap 620 are configured to extend in the vertical direction, the height of the connection area between the seventh Velcro strap 610 and the eighth Velcro strap 620 can be adjusted according to the part of the patient's body that needs to be treated.

[0259] refer to Figure 7 The radiation shielding underwear 10 for radiotherapy may further include an intermediate underwear 700 located between the outer underwear 100 and the inner underwear 200.

[0260] The middle underwear 700 can shield the scattered rays generated by the outer underwear 100 or the inner underwear 200.

[0261] The outer underwear 100, inner underwear 200, and middle underwear 700 can be made of different materials.

[0262] Depending on the nature of the scattered rays generated by the outer underwear 100, the middle underwear 700 may be formed of a first shielding material or a second shielding material.

[0263] The middle bra 700 can separate the outer bra 100 and the inner bra 200 from each other and maintain a fixed distance between them.

[0264] The middle bra 700 can include a middle top and a middle bottom.

[0265] refer to Figure 7 The radiation shielding underwear 10 for radiotherapy may further include an additional underwear 800 that is attached to and detached from the inner surface of the inner underwear 200.

[0266] The additional underwear 800 can shield against scattered rays generated by the outer underwear 100 or the inner underwear 200.

[0267] Outer underwear 100, inner underwear 200, middle underwear 700 and supplementary underwear 800 can be made of different materials.

[0268] The additional underwear 800 may be made of a first shielding material or a second shielding material, depending on the nature of the scattered rays generated from the outer underwear 100 or the inner underwear 200.

[0269] The supplementary underwear 800 can separate the patient's body from the inner underwear 200, maintain a fixed distance between them, and allow direct contact with the patient's body.

[0270] Additional underwear 800 may include additional tops and additional bottoms.

[0271] refer to Figure 7 The radiation shielding underwear 10 for radiotherapy may further include wearable underwear 1000, which is attached to and detached from the inner surface of inner underwear 200.

[0272] When the patient is wearing the supplementary underwear 800, the wearing underwear 1000 can be attached to the inner surface of the supplementary underwear 800 and removed from the inner surface of the supplementary underwear 800.

[0273] When the patient's body is in direct contact with the inner underwear 200 or the additional underwear 800, wearing underwear 1000 can block cold air or prevent the patient from feeling uncomfortable.

[0274] Wearable underwear 1000 can be made of materials that can improve patient comfort, such as fabrics made of natural fibers or synthetic fibers.

[0275] refer to Figure 7 The radiation shielding underwear 10 for radiotherapy may further include disposable underwear 1100, which is attached to and removed from the inner surface of the inner underwear 200.

[0276] When the patient wears the supplementary underwear 800, the disposable underwear 1100 can be attached to and removed from the inner surface of the supplementary underwear 800.

[0277] In cases where several patients are undergoing radiotherapy using the radiation shielding underwear 10, when disposable underwear 1100 is used, the disposable underwear 1100 that comes into direct contact with the patient's skin can be replaced, thereby improving hygiene.

[0278] Disposable underwear 1100 can be formed from air-equivalent materials.

[0279] When disposable underwear 1100 is formed from an air-equivalent material, disposable underwear 1100 exhibits the same ionization of radiation as air and has little effect on scattered rays.

[0280] refer to Figure 8 and Figure 9 The radiation shielding underwear 10 for radiotherapy may further include a neck strap 900.

[0281] The neck strap 900 is a component configured to wrap around the neck to protect it.

[0282] The neck strap 900 may include an outer strap 910 formed of a first protective material and an inner strap 920 formed of a second protective material.

[0283] In the neck band 900, the outer band 910 formed by the first shielding material can shield the scattered rays generated by high-energy radiation during radiotherapy, and the inner band 920 formed by the second shielding material can shield the braking radiation. Therefore, the neck band 900 can almost completely prevent the patient's neck from being exposed to scattered rays and braking radiation.

[0284] The neck strap 900 may include a fifth connecting member 930 configured to connect the lower part of the neck strap 900 to the outer underwear 100 or the inner underwear 200.

[0285] The fifth connecting member 930 is connected between the outer garment 130 or the inner garment 230 and the neck strap 900.

[0286] Multiple fifth connecting members 930 may be provided, and the multiple fifth connecting members 930 are distributed between the outer garment 130 or the inner garment 230 and the neck strap 900.

[0287] The fifth connecting member 930 may be one or more buttons, zippers or Velcro straps that connect to the upper and lower garments.

[0288] The zipper used as the fifth connecting member 930 can be connected between the lower end of the neck strap 900 and the neckline of the outer underwear 130 or the inner underwear 230.

[0289] The nylon hook and loop fastener used as the fifth connecting member 930 may include a ninth nylon hook and loop fastener 931 attached to the inner surface of the outer garment 130 or the inner garment 230 and a tenth nylon hook and loop fastener 932 attached to the outer surface of the neck strap 900.

[0290] The ninth Velcro strap 931 can be attached to the outer surface of the outer garment 130 or the inner garment 230.

[0291] The tenth Velcro strap 932 can be attached to the inner surface of the neck strap 900.

[0292] like Figures 14 to 16 As shown, according to an embodiment of the present invention, a scattering radiation shielding bra 10A for radiation shielding principles used in radiotherapy is configured to shield the patient's breast from the effects of scattered radiation during radiotherapy of the body portion surrounding the patient's breast and to prevent visual exposure of the patient's breast, and the scattering radiation shielding bra includes a wearing member 100A, a first shield 200A, a second shield 300A, and shoulder straps 400A.

[0293] like Figure 17 and Figure 18 As shown, the wearable component 100A has a form that surrounds the patient's chest and covers both of the patient's breasts. The wearable component 100A can be approximately in the form of a sports bra.

[0294] Wearing component 100A includes a back 110A, a front 120A, a connecting component 130A, and a shoulder 140A. The back 110A, front 120A, connecting component 130A, and shoulder 140A can be in the form of clothing.

[0295] The back 110A, front 120A, and shoulder 140A can be formed from air-equivalent materials. Air-equivalent materials refer to materials that have the same effective atomic number as air and exhibit the same ionization with respect to radiation as air. Air-equivalent materials include graphite, paper, and special plastics.

[0296] The back 110A covers the patient's back. The back 110A can elastically expand and contract during the patient's wearing of the wearing component 100A and can adhere to the patient's back.

[0297] The back 110A can be formed from an air-equivalent material. For example, the back 110A can be formed from woven carbon fiber. When the back 110A is formed from carbon fiber, it exhibits the same ionization of radiation as air and has little effect on scattered rays.

[0298] like Figure 17 As shown, the anterior portion 120A covers the patient's breast and includes a first anterior portion 121A and a second anterior portion 122A.

[0299] The first front portion 121A covers one of the patient's breasts. The second front portion 122A covers the other of the patient's breasts. The first front portion 121A and the second front portion 122A adhere to the patient's breasts through the overall elastic recovery of the wearing member 100A.

[0300] The first front part 121A connects to the back 110A on one side of the patient. The second front part 122A connects to the back 110A on the other side of the patient.

[0301] The first front portion 121A and the second front portion 122A are connected to each other between the patient's breasts by a connecting member 130A. That is, the connecting member 130A, which is disposed between the first front portion 121A and the second front portion 122A, connects the first front portion 121A and the second front portion 122A.

[0302] The connecting component 130A can be a zipper or a Velcro strap. Figure 17 An example is shown in which the connecting member 130A is configured as a zipper.

[0303] After the patient wears the wearing component 100A provided in the form of a sports bra, the first front part 121A and the second front part 122A can be connected via the connecting component 130A. When the first front part 121A and the second front part 122A are connected via the connecting component 130A, the front part 120A can adhere to the patient's breast and elastically expand and contract.

[0304] The first front portion 121A and the second front portion 122A may form a symmetrical structure with respect to the connecting member 130A. Apart from being symmetrical to each other, the first front portion 121A and the second front portion 122A may have the same structure. In the following text, it should be understood that front portion 120A refers to the first front portion 121A and the second front portion 122A.

[0305] The front portion 120A can be formed from an air-equivalent material. For example, the front portion 120A can be formed from woven carbon fiber. When the front portion 120A is formed from carbon fiber, it exhibits the same ionization of radiation as air and has little effect on scattered rays.

[0306] like Figure 15 and Figure 16As shown, shoulder 140A crosses the patient's shoulder and connects the front 120A and the back 110A. Shoulder 140A includes a first shoulder 141A and a second shoulder 142A.

[0307] like Figure 15 and Figure 17 As shown, one end of the first shoulder 141A can be connected to the upper part of the first front part 121A, and the other end of the first shoulder 141A can be connected to the back 110A. In addition, one end of the second shoulder 142A can be connected to the upper part of the second front part 122A, and the other end of the second shoulder 142A can be connected to the back 110A.

[0308] The shoulder 140A, front 120A, and back 110A can be manufactured as a single piece. Alternatively, the shoulder 140A, front 120A, and back 110A can be joined together by stitching, gluing, or heat fusion.

[0309] Shoulder 140A can be formed from an air-equivalent material. For example, shoulder 140A can be formed from woven carbon fiber. When shoulder 140A is formed from carbon fiber, shoulder 140A exhibits the same ionization of radiation as air and has little effect on scattered rays.

[0310] like Figure 20 and Figure 21 As shown, a first shield 200A is positioned between the patient's breast and a second shield 300A, covering both breasts. The first shield 200A is detachably attached to the surface of the wearable member 100A. The first shield 200A includes shields 1A 210A and shields 1B 220A.

[0311] The shield 1A 210A covers one of the patient's breasts. The shield 1A 210A is detachably attached to the surface of the first front part 121A.

[0312] The shield 1B 220A covers the other breast in the patient's breast. The shield 1B 220A is detachably attached to the surface of the second front part 122A.

[0313] At least one of shields 1A 210A and shields 1B 220A covers the portion of the patient's body between the two breasts. Therefore, at least one of shields 1A 210A and shields 1B 220A covers the connecting member 130A. Figure 20 An embodiment is illustrated in which the shield 1B 220A covers the portion of the patient's body between the two breasts. Shields 1A 210A and 1B 220A extend toward the sides of the patient.

[0314] Therefore, when performing radiotherapy on body parts near the breast (such as the liver, pancreas, spleen, kidneys, cervical spine, lumbar spine, head and neck, etc.), in order for the scattered rays to reach the breast from the front and sides of the patient's chest, the scattered rays should pass through the first shield 200A after passing through the second shield 300A.

[0315] like Figure 17 , Figure 18 , Figure 20 and Figure 21 As shown, shields 1A 210A and shields 1B 220A are detachably attached to the surface of wearable member 100A via first accessory Velcro straps V1A, V1B.

[0316] The protective cover 1A 210A is detachably attached to the surface of the first front part 121A via the first accessory Velcro straps V1A and V1B, and the protective cover 1B 220A is detachably attached to the surface of the second front part 122A via the first accessory Velcro straps V1A and V1B.

[0317] The first accessory, Velcro straps V1A and V1B, includes accessory Velcro strap 1A V1A and accessory Velcro strap 1B V1B. Accessory Velcro straps 1A V1A and 1B V1B are detachably connected to each other.

[0318] Accessory Velcro straps 1A and V1A are provided on the rear surfaces of covers 1A and 210A and covers 1B and 210B. Multiple accessory Velcro straps 1A and V1A are provided along the edges of the rear surfaces of covers 1A and 210A. Additionally, multiple accessory Velcro straps 1A and V1A are provided along the edges of the rear surfaces of covers 1B and 220A.

[0319] Attached Velcro straps V1B are provided on the surfaces of the first front portion 121A and the second front portion 122A. Multiple attached Velcro straps 1B V1B are provided on the surface of the first front portion 121A at positions corresponding to the attached Velcro straps 1AV1A provided on the rear surface of the cover 1A210A (when the first cover 1A210A covers the surface of the first front portion 121A).

[0320] In addition, multiple accessory Velcro straps 1B V1B are provided on the surface of the second front part 122A at positions corresponding to those provided on the rear surface of the cover 1B 220A (when the second cover 1B 220A covers the surface of the second front part 122A).

[0321] like Figure 20 and Figure 21As shown, the second shield 300A covers the first shield 200A at the location of the patient's two breasts. The second shield 300A is detachably attached to the surface of the first shield 200A.

[0322] The second shield 300A includes shields 2A and 310A and shields 2B and 320A.

[0323] Shields 2A and 310A cover one of the patient's breasts. Shields 2A and 310A are primarily detachably attached to the surface of shields 1A and 210A.

[0324] Shield 2B 320A covers the other breast. Shield 2B 320A is primarily detachably attached to the surface of Shield 1B 220A.

[0325] At least one of shields 2A 310A and shields 2B 320A covers the portion of the patient's body between the two breasts. Figure 22 An example is shown in which the shields 2A and 310A cover the portion of the patient's body between the two breasts. Furthermore, shields 2A and 310A and shields 2B and 320A extend towards the sides of the patient.

[0326] Therefore, when performing radiotherapy on body parts near the breast (such as the liver, pancreas, spleen, kidneys, cervical spine, lumbar spine, head and neck, etc.), in order for the scattered rays to reach the breasts on the front and sides of the patient's chest, the scattered rays should pass through the first shield 200A and then through the second shield 300A.

[0327] like Figure 16 , Figure 20 , Figure 21 and Figure 22 As shown, shields 2A 310A and shields 2B 320A are detachably attached to the surface of the first shield 200A via second accessory Velcro straps V2A and V2B.

[0328] Protective covers 2A and 310A are detachably attached to the surface of protective covers 1A and 210A via second accessory Velcro straps V2A and V2B, primarily in front of the first front portion 121A. Protective covers 2B and 320A are detachably attached to the surface of protective covers 1B and 220A primarily in front of the second front portion 122A via second accessory Velcro straps V2A and V2B.

[0329] The second accessory, Velcro straps V2A and V2B, include accessory Velcro strap 2A V2A and accessory Velcro strap 2B V2B. Accessory Velcro straps 2A V2A and 2B V2B are detachably connected to each other.

[0330] Accessory Velcro straps 2A and V2A are provided on the rear surfaces of covers 2A and 310A and covers 2B and 310B. Multiple accessory Velcro straps 2A and V2A are provided along the edges of the rear surfaces of covers 2A and 310A. Additionally, multiple connecting Velcro straps 2A and V2A are provided along the edges of the rear surfaces of covers 2B and 320A.

[0331] Accessory Velcro strips 2B and V2B are provided on the surfaces of covers 1A210A and 1B220A. Multiple accessory Velcro strips 2B and V2B are provided on the surface of cover 1A210A at positions corresponding to those provided on the rear surface of cover 2A310A (when cover 2A310A covers the surface of cover 1A210A).

[0332] In addition, multiple accessory Velcro strips 2B V2B are provided on the surface of the cover 1B 220A at positions corresponding to the accessory Velcro strips 2AV2A provided on the rear surface of the cover 2B 320A (when the cover 2B 320A covers the surface of the cover 1B 220A).

[0333] One of the first shield 200A and the second shield 300A may include a substance having a relatively high atomic number, and the other of the first shield 200A and the second shield 300A may include a substance having a relatively low atomic number.

[0334] Materials with high atomic numbers can include elements such as lead (82Pb), tungsten (74W), bismuth (83Bi), barium (56Ba), cadmium (48Cd), and tin (50Sn), as well as bismuth alloys (bismuth, cadmium, tin, lead, and indium). Materials with low atomic numbers can include elements such as beryllium (4Be), aluminum (13Al), copper (29Cu), and zinc (30Zn), water, paraffin wax, and polyethylene.

[0335] As disclosed in Korean Patent No. 1967664 and Japanese Patent No. 2015-225062, shields that include elements with high atomic numbers and elements with low atomic numbers are known, so their manufacturing methods are omitted.

[0336] Various types of radiation, such as high-energy photon beams, electron beams, proton beams, and heavy ion beams, are used in radiotherapy. Furthermore, the properties of scattered rays vary depending on the type of radiation. Therefore, different shields can be used to effectively shield scattered rays depending on the type of radiation.

[0337] Braking radiation is the electromagnetic radiation produced when a charged particle (such as an electron) is deflected by another charged particle (such as an atomic nucleus), causing the charged particle to slow down. When an atomic nucleus attracts and deflects beta (β) rays and thus changes its acceleration, the photon, whose energy is equal to the energy difference due to the change in the acceleration of the beta (β) rays, is released.

[0338] Negatively charged (-1) beta rays are attracted to positively charged (+) atomic nuclei. That is, the beta rays are deflected towards the nucleus and their kinetic energy decreases. As a result, the emission of braking radiation equals the energy difference.

[0339] When materials with high atomic numbers, such as lead (82Pb), tungsten (74W), bismuth (83Bi), barium (56Ba), cadmium (48Cd), tin (50Sn), and bismuth alloys (bismuth, cadmium, tin, lead, and indium), are used as high-energy radiation shields, the deflection of beta rays increases, and therefore, the probability of braking radiation increases. However, when materials with high atomic numbers are used as high-energy radiation shields, the protective devices for medical imaging described in relevant technical literature cannot prevent exposure to braking radiation.

[0340] According to an embodiment of the present invention, a radiation shielding bra 10A for radiotherapy, which applies the principle of radiation shielding, is manufactured such that a first shield 200A comprises a material with a relatively low atomic number and a second shield 300A comprises a material with a relatively high atomic number, thereby solving the aforementioned conventional problems.

[0341] In other words, in the scattered ray shielding bra 10A for radiation shielding principle used in radiation therapy according to an embodiment of the present invention, the second shield 300A mainly shields the scattered rays of high-energy radiation, the first shield 200A assists in shielding braking radiation, and thus, the patient's breasts are prevented from being exposed to braking radiation during high-energy radiation therapy.

[0342] Conversely, in the case of low-energy radiation, scattered rays can be effectively shielded using only materials with low atomic numbers, such as beryllium (4Be), aluminum (13Al), copper (29Cu), zinc (30Zn), water, paraffin, and polyethylene. This is because when beta rays react with materials with high atomic numbers, the beta rays release a greater amount of braking X-rays (braking radiation).

[0343] Therefore, materials with low atomic numbers should be used to shield beta rays in order to reduce the conversion rate to braking X-rays. However, the protective devices used for medical imaging in the relevant technical literature cannot completely prevent exposure to the small amounts of braking X-rays produced, even when materials with low atomic numbers are used as low-energy radiation shields.

[0344] A scattered radiation shielding bra 10A, based on an embodiment of the present invention, is used for radiation shielding principles in radiotherapy.

[0345] The aforementioned conventional problems are solved by making the first shield 200A include a material with a relatively high atomic number and the second shield 300A include a material with a relatively low atomic number.

[0346] In other words, in the scattered radiation shielding bra 10A for radiation therapy according to an embodiment of the present invention, the second shield 300A primarily shields scattered low-energy radiation, while the first shield 200A assists in shielding braking radiation. Therefore, the patient's breasts are prevented from being exposed to braking radiation during low-energy radiation therapy. Furthermore, when shielding scattered low-energy radiation, if it is determined that using only one of the first shield 200A and the second shield 300A is sufficient to adequately protect the patient's breasts, then only one of the first shield 200A and the second shield 300A may be used.

[0347] A neutron beam has no charge, and therefore, the direction of beta rays does not change within the Coulomb field of the atomic nucleus. The neutron beam collides with the atomic nucleus and loses energy, and in this case, energy loss is more likely to occur as the atomic number decreases. Therefore, a shield consisting of water, paraffin, or polyethylene, which contains a large number of hydrogen or carbon atoms, should be used.

[0348] Therefore, during neutron therapy, the first shield 200A has a relatively low atomic number to prevent the patient's breast from being exposed to radiation during the treatment. The second shield 300A can be omitted during neutron therapy.

[0349] The aforementioned first accessory, Velcro straps V1A and V1B, are detachably attached to the front part 120A and the first protective cover 200A. Furthermore, the second accessory, Velcro straps V2A and V2B, are detachably attached to the first protective cover 200A and the third protective cover 300A.

[0350] Therefore, the second shield 300A can be attached to the surface of the wearable member 100A, and the first shield 200A can be attached to the surface of the second shield 300A. Thus, the positions of the first shield 200A and the second shield 300A can be adjusted according to the type of radiation used in radiotherapy.

[0351] like Figures 14 to 16 As shown, shoulder strap 400A is an element configured to press against the patient's breast in front of the anterior portion 120A. Shoulder strap 400A may include a first shoulder strap 410A and a second shoulder strap 420A.

[0352] One end of the first shoulder strap 410A is connected to the first front part 121A below the breast. One end of the second shoulder strap 420A is connected to the second front part 122A below the breast.

[0353] The shoulder strap 400A and the front part 120A can be connected to each other by stitching, gluing, or heat fusion. Alternatively, the shoulder strap 400A and the front part 120A can be manufactured as a single piece. The shoulder strap 400A can be formed from an air-equivalent material.

[0354] For example, shoulder strap 400A can be formed from carbon fiber woven into a mesh. When shoulder strap 400A is woven into a mesh, it is easy to deform when an external force is applied to it. Therefore, the pressure of shoulder strap 400A can be easily adjusted by external force.

[0355] like Figure 15 , Figure 19a and Figure 19b As shown, the remaining end of the shoulder strap 400A is detachably attached to the back 110A.

[0356] A first Velcro strap VC1 is disposed on the back panel 110A, and a second Velcro strap VC2, detachably connected to the first Velcro strap VC1, is disposed at the remaining end of the shoulder strap 400A. The shoulder strap 400A and the back panel 110A are detachably connected to each other via the first Velcro strap VC1 and the second Velcro strap VC2. The first Velcro strap VC1 may be formed to have a larger area than the second Velcro strap VC2.

[0357] The middle portion of shoulder strap 400A is attached to the patient's shoulder. The detachable connection position of shoulder strap 400A to back 110A can be adjusted by changing the position of the second Velcro strap VC2. The position of the patient's breasts may change when adjusting the connection position of the remaining end of shoulder strap 400A to back 110A.

[0358] The shoulder strap 400A is provided as a single long strap. The shoulder strap 400A is designed with a width that gradually increases in the direction towards the front 120A. Therefore, the shoulder strap 400A on the front 120A covers the breast.

[0359] When the remaining end of shoulder strap 400A is attached to back 110A, shoulder strap 400A, in its breast-covering position, provides elasticity to lift the lower portion of the front 120A. Therefore, shoulder strap 400A lifts the lower breast tissue to prevent the breast from being exposed to radiation. Shoulder strap 400A compresses the patient's breast while maintaining tension applied to shoulder strap 400A.

[0360] By adjusting the connection position between the remaining end of the shoulder strap 400A and the back 110A, the pressure of each shoulder strap 400A on the patient's breasts is adjusted on the front 120A. Therefore, appropriate pressure can be applied to the patient's chest. Furthermore, even when breast size and chest size change due to changes in the patient's weight, or even when only one breast size changes, the patient's breasts can be stably supported by appropriate pressure.

[0361] like Figure 19a and Figure 19b As shown, a third Velcro strap VC3, detachably connected to the second Velcro strap VC2, is positioned on the remaining end of the shoulder strap 400A. When storing and cleaning the wearable component 100A, the connection of the second Velcro strap VC2 to the third Velcro strap VC3 prevents damage to the second Velcro strap VC2 and the wearable component 100A, as well as tangling of the wearable component 100A.

[0362] The fourth nylon hook and loop strip VC4 is disposed on one side of the remaining end of each shoulder strap 400A based on the second nylon hook and loop strip VC2, and the fifth nylon hook and loop strip VC5 is disposed on the other side of the remaining end of each shoulder strap 400A based on the second nylon hook and loop strip VC2.

[0363] like Figure 19c As shown, when the remaining end of the shoulder strap 400A is rolled up in the longitudinal direction, and the fourth and fifth Velcro straps VC4 and VC5 are connected to each other, the remaining end of the shoulder strap 400A remains rolled up. Therefore, for the storage and cleaning of the wearing component 100A, when the remaining end of the shoulder strap 400A is rolled up in the longitudinal direction and the fourth and fifth Velcro straps VC4 and VC5 are connected to each other, damage to the second Velcro strap VC2 and the wearing component 100A, as well as tangling of the wearing component 100A, can be prevented.

[0364] Although exemplary embodiments of the invention have been disclosed for illustrative purposes, those skilled in the art will appreciate that various modifications and variations are possible without departing from the scope and spirit of the invention as disclosed in the appended claims.

[0365] Therefore, all such modifications and variations that are obvious to those skilled in the art, as well as other modifications and variations, are considered to fall within the broad scope and limits of the invention described herein.

[0366] [Industrial Applicability]

[0367] As is evident from the above description, the radiation shielding underwear for radiotherapy according to the present invention comprises an outer underwear formed of a first shielding material and an inner underwear formed of a second shielding material, wherein the atomic number of the first shielding material is higher than that of the second shielding material. Therefore, during radiotherapy, the outer underwear can shield against radiation scattered due to high-energy radiation, and the inner underwear can shield against braking radiation. This almost completely blocks the patient's exposure to both radiation scattered and braking radiation. Thus, the present invention transcends the limitations of conventional technology, possessing not only a high probability of utilizing related technologies but also a high probability of marketing and selling devices using the present invention. It is clearly feasible and therefore industrially applicable.

Claims

1. A radiation shielding undergarment for radiotherapy, the radiation shielding undergarment comprising: An outer garment, formed of a first shielding material, to shield against scattered rays generated during radiotherapy due to high-energy radiation; as well as The inner underwear, formed of a second shielding material, is used to shield against braking radiation generated by the outer underwear. The first shielding material has a higher atomic number than the second shielding material.

2. The radiation shielding underwear according to claim 1, wherein: The outer underwear includes an outer top and an outer bottom; and The inner underwear includes an inner top and an inner bottom.

3. The radiation-shielding underwear according to claim 2, wherein the radiation-shielding underwear further comprises a first connecting member, the first connecting member being connected between the outer top and the inner top to maintain the overlapping state between the outer top and the inner top.

4. The radiation-shielding underwear according to claim 3, wherein the radiation-shielding underwear further comprises a second connecting member, the second connecting member being connected between the outer lower garment and the inner lower garment to maintain the overlapping state between the outer lower garment and the inner lower garment.

5. The radiation-shielding underwear according to claim 4, wherein the radiation-shielding underwear further comprises a third connecting member, the third connecting member being connected between the outer top or the inner top and the outer bottom or the inner bottom to maintain the connection state between the outer top or the inner top and the outer bottom or the inner bottom.

6. The radiation shielding underwear according to claim 5, wherein, The third connecting component: Connecting the outer top and the inner bottom to maintain the overlapping state between the outer top and the inner bottom; or It is connected between the inner top and the outer bottom to maintain the overlapping state between the inner top and the outer bottom; and The third connecting member is a Velcro strap, which is configured to extend vertically to adjust the height of the connecting area therebetween.

7. The radiation-shielding underwear according to claim 3, further comprising a fourth connecting member disposed on the outer surface of the outer garment and configured to fold the lower part of the outer garment to maintain its overlap with the upper part of the outer garment.

8. The radiation shielding underwear according to claim 7, wherein, The fourth connecting component is a plurality of Velcro straps, which are spaced apart from each other in the vertical direction to adjust the height of the connecting area therebetween.

9. The radiation shielding underwear according to claim 7, wherein, The fourth connecting member is a Velcro strap, which is configured to extend vertically to adjust the height of the connecting area therebetween.

10. The radiation shielding underwear according to claim 1, wherein: The first shielding material is selected from a first group of materials, which consists of elements with high atomic numbers, including lead, tungsten, bismuth, barium, cadmium, tin, bismuth alloys, and combinations thereof; and The second shielding material is selected from the second group of materials, which consists of elements with low atomic numbers, including beryllium, aluminum, copper, zinc, paraffin, plastics, and combinations thereof.

11. The radiation shielding underwear according to claim 10, wherein, The outer underwear is formed of a first film fabric, which is formed by stacking films made of the same or different materials selected from the first group.

12. The radiation shielding underwear according to claim 10, wherein, The outer underwear is formed of a first woven fabric, which is woven from yarn, and the yarn is formed from the same or different materials selected from the first group.

13. The radiation shielding underwear according to claim 12, wherein, The first woven fabric includes one or more first coatings, which are formed from materials selected from the first group other than the selected materials.

14. The radiation shielding underwear according to claim 10, wherein, The inner underwear is formed of a second film fabric, which is formed by stacking films, the films being formed of the same or different materials selected from the second group.

15. The radiation shielding underwear according to claim 10, wherein, The inner underwear is formed of a second woven fabric, which is woven from yarn, and the yarn is formed from the same or different materials selected from the second group.

16. The radiation shielding underwear according to claim 15, wherein, The second woven fabric includes one or more second coatings, which are formed from another material selected from the second group, other than the selected material.

17. The radiation-shielding underwear according to claim 1, further comprising a neck strap, the neck strap comprising: An outer band, formed of the first shielding material and configured to wrap around the neck to protect the neck from radiation; as well as An inner strip, which is connected to the outer strip and is formed of the second shielding material.

18. The radiation-shielding underwear according to claim 1, wherein the radiation-shielding underwear further comprises a radiation-shielding bra, wherein, The radiation shielding bra includes: Wearable components configured to surround the patient's chest and cover both of the patient's breasts; A first shield, detachably attached to the surface of the wearable member and configured to cover both breasts of the patient; and A second shield, detachably attached to the surface of the first shield and configured to cover both breasts of the patient, wherein: One of the first shield and the second shield comprises a material having a relatively high atomic number; and The remaining one of the first shield and the second shield comprises a material with a relatively low atomic number.

19. The radiation shielding underwear according to claim 18, wherein: The first protective cover includes: Shield 1A, the shield 1A being configured to cover one of the patient's breasts; and Shield 1B, configured to cover the remaining one of the patient's breasts. Wherein, at least one of the shields 1A and 1B covers the portion of the patient's body between the two breasts; and The second protective shield includes: Shield 2A, the shield 2A being configured to cover one of the patient's breasts; and Shield 2B, configured to cover the remaining one of the patient's breasts. Wherein, at least one of the shields 2A and 2B covers the portion of the patient's body between the two breasts.

20. The radiation shielding underwear according to claim 18, wherein, The radiation-shielding bra further includes shoulder straps configured such that one end of each strap is attached to the wearing member below the patient's breast, and the remaining end of each strap is detachably attached to the back of the wearing member. Specifically, while adjusting the connection position of the remaining end of each of the shoulder straps to the back, the position of the corresponding breast of the patient is adjusted. The wearable component includes: The back, which is connected to the patient's back; A first front portion, configured to cover one of the patient's breasts and connected to the back; and A second front portion, configured to cover the remaining one of the patient's breasts and connected to the back, wherein: The first anterior portion and the second anterior portion are connected by a connecting member between the patient's two breasts; and The first protective cover covers the connecting member.

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