System and method for parallel preparation of multiple patients

Abstract

The invention relates to a sickbed for placing a patient in a medical imaging system. The sickbed includes a tabletop configured to receive a patient and an interface module including a first interface and a second interface. The first interface is configured to be communicatively connected to at least one medical device attached to a patient, and the second interface is configured to be communicatively connected to a control unit for communicating with the at least one medical device. Accordingly, it is possible to prepare a plurality of patients in parallel on a plurality of sickbeds before the patient is transported to the medical imaging device. The sensor and coil can be attached to the patient and can pre-test the function prior to entering the scanning room for medical imaging.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a patient bed for positioning a patient in a medical imaging system. The patient bed is configured to allow multiple patients to be prepared in parallel for medical imaging. Background Art

[0002] Preparing multiple patients and guided imaging in parallel is a challenge with respect to workflow management and technical implementation in a clinical setting. Parallel preparation of patients allows patients to be scanned with reduced latency because the patients are proactively prepared and therefore ready for scanning prior to entering the scanning room. There are many issues with regard to the workflow aspects of imaging multiple patients with one scanner. Long preparation times for patients at the scanner and sequential preparation of patients may result in delays and lower patient throughput through a medical imaging system. When the patient table is docked to the imaging system, coils and sensors need to be manually connected to the imaging system, which further increases latency. For multiple patient tables and table docking systems, integration of coils and physiological sensors for clinical applications or scanning protocols needs to be achieved.

[0003] US2008 / 0194942A1 discloses a positioning system and a positioning method for positioning an imaging object in an imaging or treatment system. The system includes a linearly translatable tabletop disposed on a movable cart and an elongated position selector for selecting a region of interest of an imaging object. After the region of interest is selected and the cart is docked to the imaging or treatment system, the linearly translatable tabletop is linearly translated to move the region of interest of the imaging object to the imaging or treatment system.

[0004] The inventors of the present invention have therefore found that it would be advantageous to have a bed that allows for the parallel preparation of multiple patients which does not suffer from the above-mentioned disadvantages. Summary of the invention

[0005] It is an object of the present invention to provide an improved patient couch for positioning a patient in a medical imaging system which allows for parallel preparation of multiple patients prior to entering a scanning room.

[0006] The objects of the invention are solved by the subject-matter of the independent claims, wherein further embodiments are incorporated in the dependent claims.

[0007] The described embodiments similarly relate to a bed for positioning a patient in a medical imaging system and a method for imaging a patient in a medical imaging system having the bed. Synergistic effects can result from different combinations of the embodiments, although they may not be described in detail.

[0008] In addition, it should be noted that all embodiments of the method according to the present invention can be performed in the order of the steps described, but this is not the only and essential order of the steps of the method. Unless explicitly mentioned to the contrary below, the method proposed herein can be performed in another order of the disclosed steps without departing from the corresponding method embodiment.

[0009] According to a first embodiment of the present invention, a bed for placing a patient in a medical imaging system is provided. The bed includes a table top configured to receive the patient and an interface module including a first interface and a second interface. The first interface is configured to be communicatively connected to at least one medical device attached to the patient, and the second interface is configured to be communicatively connected to a control unit for communicating with the at least one medical device.

[0010] With the intelligent modular bed according to the present invention, multiple patients can be prepared in parallel on several such beds with coils and sensors. The device function and physiological signal response of each coil or sensor have been checked, and the signal of each patient can be sent before the patient to be scanned enters the scanning room.

[0011] The proposed bed is equipped with connectors allowing galvanic, optical or wireless connection of the equipment to the bed. Additionally, the bed allows intelligent galvanic, optical or wireless connection to a control unit of an imaging system or a cart, preferably the connection to the control unit is established without active interaction of an operator such as clinical staff. For autonomous connection and setup, the bed can automatically connect to a control unit or diagnostic scanner controlled by 3D sensing and a software module. The software module can be based on artificial intelligence and optimize and guide patient preparation and allocation in parallel to diagnostic or therapeutic equipment.

[0012] Preferably, the software algorithm controls the workflow of parallel patient preparation and imaging. Different software modules can be active in parallel and interact with each other, and control and exchange data. Shipping, docking and scanning depend on parameters such as software update control, calibration, data connection quality, data flow, or serviceability of connected devices. These parameters can be checked in real time by decision management based on thresholds or windows. Preferably, the software management system can actively link between sensors and coils, patients and imaging systems. For parallel and partially autonomous imaging support, there may be greater selection options to better match patient profiles or coil profiles. The process can be autonomous and, additionally or alternatively, can be a backup in the case of staff support. In addition, patient queues for multiple scanners can be managed. The hospital bed according to the present invention can include clear intelligent active recognition sensing for multiple patient preparations.

[0013] Therefore, according to the present invention, multiple patients can be prepared in parallel for medical imaging on multiple beds. Each patient can be arranged for medical imaging on the corresponding table of the bed. Several medical devices (such as sensors for detecting physiological signals of the patient), devices related to the imaging process (such as coils of a magnetic resonance imaging system) or devices for treating the patient can be provided to the patient. The medical device provided to the patient can be connected to the bed via a first interface of the interface module of the bed. The second interface of the interface module of the bed allows the bed to be connected to an external control unit. The control unit allows the function of medical devices (such as sensors and coils) to be pre-checked and tested before the bed with the patient is transferred to the medical imaging system. Therefore, the bed according to the present invention reduces the delay and idle time of the medical imaging system, thereby increasing patient throughput and reducing costs.

[0014] Therefore, the bed according to the present invention proposes a modular patient table design, which helps the operator and the patient in the assembly line to prepare in advance before the actual scan. The intelligent table top with connections to the various coils and sensors enables the testing of medical devices before they are used in the medical imaging system. Therefore, costs can be reduced and staff and patient satisfaction can be improved.

[0015] In an embodiment of the invention, the control unit is part of the medical imaging system, or the control unit is part of a cart for transporting a hospital bed. Thus, the control unit can be part of a cart configured for transporting a hospital bed, or part of the medical imaging system. Alternatively, there can also be a separate control unit, or a control unit integrated into the hospital bed. The control unit allows a readout of the medical device and thus allows testing of the sensor signals and the functionality of the coils. Direct manual connection of the electrical coils or sensors to the imaging system can be avoided.

[0016] In an embodiment of the present invention, the second interface is configured to be disconnected from the cart and connected to the medical imaging system when the bed is moved from the cart to the medical imaging system. The interface module with the second interface can be configured so that the connection of the second interface is automatically changed from the cart to the imaging module. After successfully checking the equipment function and transporting the patient to the imaging system, the connection to the cart is no longer needed. Therefore, it is disconnected and a new connection of the second interface to the medical imaging system is established. Therefore, medical imaging can preferably control coils and other medical devices such as sensors measuring physiological signals of the patient via the control unit.

[0017] In an embodiment of the present invention, at least one medical device is a physiological sensor for detecting a patient's body functions, a coil of a medical imaging system, or a device for treating a patient. The medical device can also be devices and gadgets such as: RF coils, sensors for ECG, PPU or respiration, contrast injectors or injectors for sedation, patient oxygen supply, vascular access for sedation and stabilization, etc.

[0018] In an embodiment of the invention, the second interface is configured to automatically establish a connection with the control unit. In this embodiment, preferably there is no active input and manual work from the operator necessary to establish the connection. Thus, when the bed is transferred from the cart to the imaging system, or when the bed is inserted into the imaging system, the connection is automatically established.

[0019] In an embodiment of the present invention, a connection to a control unit is established using 3D sensing. The three-dimensional sensing can be used to detect the position and / or orientation of the second interface of the hospital bed relative to the medical imaging system. Therefore, the connector of the control unit of the medical imaging system can be controlled to make its position suitable for connection with the second interface of the interface module, thereby establishing a connection between the medical device attached to the patient and the medical imaging system. In an embodiment of the present invention, the connection between the first interface and at least one medical device and / or the connection between the second interface and the control unit is a current connection, an optical connection or a wireless connection. The connection can be current, thus referring to direct electrical contact via a cable of a connector. Alternatively, an optical connection such as a light guide can be provided, which can transmit control and data signals via a small gap between the interface module and the imaging system. The wireless connection can use RF transmission for contactless transmission of signals.

[0020] In an embodiment of the invention, the interface module is configured to test the functionality of at least one medical device. Thus, the interface module can include a control unit to check the signals from the medical device and control whether the sensor is working correctly and is correctly attached to the patient. In this embodiment, the connection between the patient table and the cart can be omitted.

[0021] In an embodiment of the invention, the table top is a modular table top and is configured to adapt the bed to the individual positioning of the patient. The modular table top can be prepared for different scans and applications. The table top can be configured with a mattress for individually positioning the patient with respect to the envisaged imaging procedure. For example, a mammography may require a different positioning than plastic surgery imaging or a treatment such as MRLINAC. The table top can also be configured to support prone or supine positioning. For autonomous and parallel preparation of the patient, it may be necessary to select different combinations of receive coil settings depending on the area to be imaged or individually selected anatomical structures.

[0022] In one embodiment of the present invention, the hospital bed is configured for a computed tomography device, a magnetic resonance imaging system, a positron emission tomography, an X-ray imaging, an ultrasound and / or a therapeutic system, such as MR LINAC, MR hyperthermia and a combination thereof. The hospital bed is also compatible with different field strengths in MRI, such as 1.5T or 3T. Compatibility can be achieved by introducing an optical fiber link to make the system EMC compatible. Integrating a wireless data link in the hospital bed can directly provide near-field non-current data communication. The modular tabletop concept for MRI and CT can be compatible. If the patient needs an MRI scan directly after a CT scan, the modular concept allows the patient to be transported in a preparation unit for multiple patient imaging and reconfiguration of the tabletop. The hospital bed can also be configured to be compatible with a therapeutic system such as an MR link or a hybrid MRI (such as MR-PET for treatment) or an MR combination with other imaging or triggering techniques such as ultrasound. In addition, compatibility with a mobile MRI or diagnostic scanner that travels to the hospital bed can be provided. The hospital bed of the present invention can also be applied to an X-ray system. The medical device can be, for example, an intelligent radiation shield, a dose monitor or a portable detector.

[0023] In an embodiment of the invention, the bed comprises a power connector configured to receive power from the cart and / or from the medical imaging system. Thus, the bed is able to allow checking and testing of device functionality without any further connection to an external control unit.

[0024] In an embodiment of the invention, the power connector is an inductively coupled power transfer. This connection is able to transfer power without any wired connection to the bed.

[0025] According to another aspect of the present invention, a method for imaging a patient in a medical imaging system having a hospital bed according to any one of the aforementioned embodiments is provided. The method comprises the following steps: providing a hospital bed, mounting the hospital bed on a cart, and placing a patient on the hospital bed. The method further comprises the following steps: attaching at least one medical device to the patient and connecting the medical device to a first interface of an interface module, thereby preparing the patient for medical imaging; providing a connection between a second interface of the interface module and a control unit of the cart; and checking the function of at least one medical device by the control unit. In addition, the method comprises the following steps: transporting the hospital bed to the medical imaging system, moving the hospital bed from the cart to the medical imaging system, thereby disconnecting the second interface of the interface module from the cart and connecting it to the medical imaging system, and acquiring an image of the patient using the medical imaging system. The results of the check of the device function can be monitored and controlled by a local operator or a remote operator. The operator can be supported by an artificial intelligence unit.

[0026] In an embodiment of the present invention, multiple patients are prepared for medical imaging in parallel on multiple beds. Thus, patient transport can be equipped for multiple patient preparations. This can increase the throughput of patients through the imaging system.

[0027] In an embodiment of the present invention, a software algorithm guides the clinician through the steps of the method. For multiple patient preparation and imaging workflow processes, management processes need to be addressed. Therefore, it is necessary to predict and decide which parallel and separate processes of modular patient table preparation, transportation and docking must occur. There are many processes to be controlled in parallel and serial processes, such as bed configuration and individual patient preparation. The software algorithm can support the clinician and indicate which steps and actions must be taken.

[0028] Thus, benefits provided by any one aspect described above are equally applicable to all other aspects, and vice versa.

[0029] In summary, the present invention relates to a hospital bed for accommodating a patient in a medical imaging system. The hospital bed comprises a table top configured to receive a patient and an interface module comprising a first interface and a second interface. The first interface is configured to be communicatively connected to at least one medical device attached to the patient, and the second interface is configured to be communicatively connected to a control unit for communicating with the at least one medical device. Thus, multiple patients can be prepared in parallel on multiple beds before transporting the patients to the medical imaging apparatus. Sensors and coils can be attached to the patient and functionality can be pre-tested before entering a scanning room for medical imaging.

[0030] The above aspects and embodiments will become apparent from and will be explained with reference to the exemplary embodiments described below. Exemplary embodiments of the present invention are described below with reference to the accompanying drawings: BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0031] Figure 1 A schematic arrangement of a hospital bed according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown.

[0032] Figure 2 A schematic arrangement of a patient bed with a trolley and a medical imaging system according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown.

[0033] Figure 3 A scheme for the parallel preparation and scheduling of multiple patients is shown.

[0034] Figure 4A A host state machine for controlling parallel workflow preparation and scanning is shown.

[0035] Figure 4B An algorithm for a feedback reaction loop model of a parallel preparation and imaging workflow is shown.

[0036] Figure 5 The parallel preparation of multiple patients with various medical devices is shown.

[0037] Figure 6 The process of transporting and assigning individual patients to individual medical scanners is shown.

[0038] Figure 7 A block diagram of a method for imaging a patient in a medical imaging system having a patient bed according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown.

[0039] Reference list: 100 beds

[0040] 110 patients

[0041] 120 Medical Imaging System

[0042] 130 countertops

[0043] 140 interface module

[0044] 141 First Interface

[0045] 142 Second interface

[0046] 150Medical Equipment

[0047] 160 control unit

[0048] 170 cart DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0049] Figure 1 A schematic arrangement of a hospital bed 100 according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown. A patient 110 is placed on a tabletop 130 of the hospital bed 100. Several medical devices 150 (such as sensors for detecting physiological signals of the patient 110 or coils of a medical imaging system 120) are applied to the patient 110. The hospital bed 100 comprises an interface module 140 having a first interface 141. The medical device 150 is connected to the first interface 141. The interface module 140 comprises a second interface 142. With the second interface 142, the hospital bed can be communicatively connected to a control unit 160, which is configured to control and read out the medical device 150.

[0050] Figure 2 1 shows a schematic arrangement of a patient bed 100 according to an embodiment of the present invention, with a cart 170 and a medical imaging system 120. In addition to the patient bed 100 having a patient 110 and a medical device 150 attached to the patient, Figure 2A cart 170 is shown, on which a hospital bed 100 is arranged. The cart 170 comprises a control unit 160. When the hospital bed 100 is positioned on the cart, a connection can be established from the second interface 42 of the interface module 140 to the control unit 160 of the cart 170. Thus, in conjunction with the connection via the first interface 141, the control unit 160 can test and check the signals of the medical device 150 (such as sensors and coils). If the patient 110 is transferred from the cart 170 together with the table 130 of the hospital bed 100 to the medical imaging system 120, the communication connection of the second interface 142 with the control unit 160 of the cart 170 is disconnected, and a connection of the second interface 142 with the control unit 160 of the medical imaging system 120 is established. Thus, the medical imaging system 120 can read out the sensors and control the coils of the medical device 150 during the imaging process. With this hospital bed 100 according to this embodiment of the invention, parallel preparation of a plurality of patients 110 for medical imaging can be achieved.

[0051] The docking with the scanner can be achieved via different connection devices. The coils and sensing devices can be directly connected to the bed. The bed can be connected to the cart for power supply and digital data transmission. The bed can be connected to the diagnostic scanner via an automatic connection process. The sensing devices on the modular patient table need to be connected and linked to the scanner. Local guidance support is required to accurately match the bed with the scanner interface. Data connection and power connection with the scanner can be achieved without staff interaction. The docking with the scanner can be achieved using connection devices for data and power management. The operator does not need to manually connect the connector between the magnet and the cart. Interfaces that are partially galvanic, optical or wireless can be used. When the bed is moved from the cart to the magnet docking device of the imaging system, the bed including the sensor is controlled by the imaging system. The data stream from the sensor and power supply is electrically switched from the smart cart to the magnet. Special connections to the transport unit and docking connections to the diagnostic scanner unit can be achieved. For example, galvanic connections for transmitting power and data, optical fibers or free space optics for data transmission, inductively coupled power transmission or radio frequency data transmission are feasible. The following options can be provided as gadgets to be applied for the parallel preparation of multiple patients in the preparation room: contrast injector for CT or MR, needle for the patient, pump integrated in the bed, sedation unit, wireless sensor, ultrasound system or plastic surgery markers in the preparation room.

[0052] Figure 3 A scheme is shown for the parallel preparation and scheduling of multiple patients 110. This can be achieved using a real-time planning and mapping software module.

[0053] Figure 4AA host state machine for controlling parallel workflow preparation and scanning is shown. Software algorithms control the workflow of parallel patient preparation and imaging. Different software modules can be active in parallel and interact, control each other, and exchange data. A list of AI data learning modules can be provided to predict the best coil fitting, configuration, and delivery timing in advance. Patient queues for multiple imaging systems (such as scanners) may need to be organized through an overall workflow management process. Preparation rooms for access to multiple scanners need to be organized, arranged, and predicted. The availability and readiness of systems for preparation need to be checked in real time. The transparency of the status of RF coils is inherently important in terms of sterilization status and readiness, such as whether the coil is charged, electrical status protocol, or service protocol. Such a system may require special algorithms that can organize, control, predict, and decide based on artificial intelligence, and have input data from sensors or from a database.

[0054] Figure 4B An algorithm for a feedback reaction loop model for a parallel preparation and imaging workflow is shown. A plurality of patients 110 to be imaged are scheduled, their imaging processes are selected, and they are assigned to preparation rooms and medical scanners. The patients 110 are prepared, they are positioned on the corresponding beds 100, and the required medical equipment is attached to the patients 110 and connected to the interface modules 140 of the beds 100. Thereafter, the patients 110 are transported and docked to the medical imaging system 120. After imaging, the process is stopped.

[0055] Figure 5 The parallel preparation of multiple patients 110 with medical devices 150 is shown. The modular bed 100 needs to be configured for an upcoming or predicted scan. The configuration may depend on the clinical protocol, such as mammography, cardiac or orthopedic scans, the position of the patient 110, and the predicted number of scans in a defined time slot. Software management can determine the required quantity and individual devices. The staff can obtain information about how, when and which medical devices 150 (such as coils or sensors) must be applied to configure the bed 100 during the defined time slot. A display device on the bed 100 or cart 170 can monitor the status and information of the operator or staff.

[0056] Individual patient profiles can be taken into account during preparation of each patient 110. Preparation in the preparation room has the following functions: setting up and positioning equipment and gadgets such as RF coils, sensors for ECG, PPU and respiration, contrast injectors, sedation injectors, oxygen supply to the patient or vascular access for sedation and stabilization, or treatment equipment such as local applicators for thermal therapy, black box monitoring devices or dosimeters for monitoring imaging parameters such as electromagnetic fields based on defined protocols.

[0057] The individual devices are connected and checked locally, and the feedback of the functions and sensor data streams are transmitted to the workflow management system to configure the upcoming diagnostic imaging protocol on the imaging scanner. During preparation, it may not be very clear which scanner is assigned. For the assignment, the schedule preferably determines the assignment in real time. Interruption of the process may be necessary, for example, if the scanner fails, a patient emergency occurs, no medical assistance is available, a software crash occurs, data is not yet available, or idle waiting.

[0058] like Figure 5 As shown, several multi-modular beds are available and need to be controlled for parallel patient preparation. Each bed will be individually equipped with coils and sensing devices. All coils can be managed by a service and sterilization workflow system, which coil corresponds to which scanner and clinical scan. For example, garment coils require special sterilization and cleaning processes. Different coils can be worn correctly in the preparation room including monitoring and functional testing. If the coil garment does not work properly, the coil garment may need to be replaced. If there are many coils in the preparation room, the patient or operator can select an individual sized coil. The coils can even belong to different vendor systems that may not be compatible.

[0059] Figure 6 The transport and assignment process of individual patients 110 to individual medical imaging systems 120 is shown. When a scanner in the scanner pool is about to be ready, the transport process can be activated for the selected patient. The transport process can be fully automated or guided with medical assistance. A clear identification process of the selected patient and the scanner bed needs to be solved. The table 130 with the patient 110 and the active and passive sensing units may need to be electrically connected for data control exchange and power supply. In the event of multiple patient workflow problems (such as scanner problems, patient emergency, no staff, etc.), the transport may be interrupted. As Figure 6 As shown, a bed 100 with a prepared patient 110 is ready to be scanned, and final assignment is achieved when the scanner is ready for use. The scanner can have different states, such as occupied, scanning, docked, undocked, sterilized, ready, service, etc. A bed can have states such as free, occupied, preparing, equipment check, transported to scanner, sterilized, or service.

[0060] Figure 7A block diagram of a method for imaging a patient 110 in a medical imaging system 120 using a hospital bed 100 according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown. The method includes a step S210 of providing a hospital bed 100, a step S220 of installing the hospital bed 100 on a cart 170, and a step S230 of placing the patient 110 on the hospital bed 100. After a step S240 of attaching at least one medical device 150 to the patient 110 and connecting the medical device 150 to a first interface 141 of an interface module 140 to prepare the patient 110 for medical imaging, a step S250 of providing a connection between a second interface 142 of the interface module 140 and a control unit 160 of the cart 170 is performed. However, step S240 can also be performed after step S250. In addition, the method includes a step S260 of checking the function of at least one medical device 150 by the control unit 160, and a step S270 of transporting the hospital bed 100 to the medical imaging system 120. In addition, step S280 of moving the bed 100 from the cart 170 to the medical imaging system 120 is performed, thereby disconnecting the second interface 142 of the interface module 140 from the cart 170 and connecting it to the medical imaging system 120, and step S290 of acquiring an image of the patient 110 using the medical imaging system 120.

[0061] Although the present invention has been illustrated and described in detail in the drawings and the foregoing description, such illustration and description are to be considered illustrative or exemplary rather than restrictive. The present invention is not limited to the disclosed embodiments. Other variations of the disclosed embodiments can be understood and implemented by those skilled in the art in practicing the claimed invention by studying the drawings, the disclosure, and the dependent claims.

[0062] In the claims, the word "comprising" does not exclude other elements or steps and the indefinite article "a" or "an" does not exclude a plurality. The mere fact that certain measures are re-cited in mutually different dependent claims does not indicate that a combination of these measures cannot be used to advantage. Any reference signs in the claims shall not be construed as limiting the scope of protection.

Claims

1. A hospital bed (100) for placing a patient (110) in a medical imaging system (120), the hospital bed comprising: a table (130) configured to receive the patient (110); as well as an interface module (140) comprising a first interface (141) and a second interface (142), wherein the first interface (141) is configured to be communicatively connected to at least one medical device (150) attached to the patient (110), and wherein the second interface (142) is configured to be communicatively connected to a control unit (160) to communicate with the at least one medical device (150); Characterized in that the control unit (160) is part of a cart (170) for transporting the hospital bed (100).

2. The hospital bed (100) according to claim 1, wherein: The second interface (142) is configured to be disconnected from the cart (170) and connected to the medical imaging system (120) when the bed (100) is moved from the cart (170) to the medical imaging system (120).

3. The hospital bed (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: The at least one medical device (150) is a physiological sensor for detecting a body function of the patient (110), a coil of the medical imaging system (120), or a device for treating the patient (110).

4. The hospital bed (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: The second interface (142) is configured to automatically establish a connection with the control unit (160).

5. The hospital bed (100) according to claim 4, wherein: A connection is established with the control unit (160) using 3D sensing to detect the position and / or orientation of the second interface of the bed relative to the medical imaging system.

6. The hospital bed (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: The connection of the first interface (141) to the at least one medical device (150) and / or the connection of the second interface (142) to the control unit (160) is a galvanic, optical or wireless connection.

7. The hospital bed (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: The interface module (140) is configured to test the functionality of the at least one medical device (150).

8. The hospital bed (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: The table top (130) is a modular table top and is configured to adapt the bed (100) to the individual positioning of the patient (110).

9. The hospital bed (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: The bed (100) is configured to be used with a computed tomography apparatus, a magnetic resonance imaging system, positron emission tomography, X-ray imaging, ultrasound and / or a therapy system such as MR LINAC, MR hyperthermia and combinations thereof.

10. The hospital bed (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: The bed (100) includes a power connector configured to receive power from the cart (170) and / or from the medical imaging system (120).

11. The hospital bed (100) according to claim 10, wherein: The power connector is inductively coupled power transfer.

12. A method for imaging a patient (110) in a medical imaging system (120) having a bed (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 11, the method comprising the following steps: Providing the hospital bed (100); Installing the hospital bed (100) on a trolley (170); Placing the patient (110) on the hospital bed (100); attaching at least one medical device (150) to the patient (110) and connecting the medical device (150) to the first interface (141) of the interface module (140), thereby preparing the patient (110) for medical imaging; Providing a connection between the second interface (142) of the interface module (140) and a control unit (160) of the cart (170); checking the functionality of the at least one medical device (150) by means of the control unit (160); transporting the hospital bed (100) to the medical imaging system (120); Moving the patient bed (100) from the cart (170) to the medical imaging system (120), thereby disconnecting the second interface (142) of the interface module (140) from the cart (170) and connecting the second interface to the medical imaging system (120); and An image of the patient (110) is acquired using the medical imaging system (120).

13. The method according to claim 12, wherein: A plurality of patients (110) are prepared in parallel on a plurality of beds (100) for the medical imaging.

14. The method according to any one of claims 12 or 13, wherein: A software algorithm guides the clinician through the steps of the method.

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