Arm support for medical imaging and therapy

Abstract

Provided herein are technologies related to radiological imaging and treatment, particularly, but not exclusively, arm supports configured to support an arm of a patient positioned in an upright position during medical imaging and / or medical treatment, and related methods, kits, and systems.

Description

[0001] Related application statement This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 538,571, filed September 15, 2023, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference for all purposes. Technical Field

[0002] This article provides techniques related to radiographic imaging and treatment, particularly (but not limited to) arm supports configured to support the arm of a patient positioned in an upright position during medical imaging and / or medical treatment, as well as related methods, kits, and systems. Background Technology

[0003] Radiation sources have numerous uses in medicine, including medical imaging and radiotherapy. Typically, radiation sources are configured to move relative to a stationary patient, for example, to expose a specific part or area of ​​the patient to radiation produced by the source. Furthermore, while radiotherapy and associated diagnostic and planning imaging are routinely performed with the patient in a prone or supine horizontal position, some patients benefit from therapy in unconventional positions, such as an upright position. Upright radiotherapy systems can also be simpler and more compact, offering economic advantages. Some accessories for patient positioning and support include arm supports for positioning, supporting, and / or stabilizing the patient's arm during diagnosis, imaging, and / or treatment. For example, arm supports can often help support the patient's body or position the patient's arm in a position that minimizes beam attenuation, minimizes exposure to unimaged or untreated body areas, or maximizes the imaging and treatment quality of the body area being imaged or treated. However, limitations in patient accessories for supporting patients in an upright position hinder the adoption and use of beneficial upright radiotherapy methods.

[0004] The upright positioning used for breast radiotherapy has not been extensively studied. In itself, conventional chairs are insufficient to ensure adequate fixation, reproducibility, and patient comfort. For example, in the upright position, the skin folds beneath the breast (inframammary skin folds (ISF)) may be more pronounced because the breast naturally hangs upright rather than laterally as in the supine position. Historically, patients with larger breast sizes have experienced more acute and late-onset radiotherapy skin toxicity, particularly where the treated breast folds into the surrounding skin.

[0005] The traditional supine position with arms elevated, widely used in breast radiotherapy, can cause problems for patients in certain situations. Following breast cancer surgery and routine physical therapy, some patients are unable to maintain a satisfactory supine position with arms elevated for breast radiotherapy. For most patients, this traditional position is uncomfortable (especially since radiotherapy typically occurs about a month after breast cancer surgery). Some patients also experience shoulder flexion and abduction injuries, requiring intensive physical therapy before radiotherapy to restore sufficient shoulder range of motion, thus delaying treatment. Summary of the Invention

[0006] This document provides techniques related to radiographic imaging and treatment, particularly (but not limited to) arm supports configured to support the arm of a patient positioned in an upright position during medical imaging and / or medical treatment, as well as related methods, kits, and systems. Some techniques for supporting a patient in an upright, stable position are described in U.S. Patent No. 11,529,109 and U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2023 / 0172566, each of which is incorporated herein by reference.

[0007] In some implementations, the patient positioning system stabilizes and supports the patient in an upright position (e.g., standing, sitting, kneeling, perched). Imaging and / or treating patients in an upright position offers increased comfort benefits for many patients. Furthermore, for many indications (e.g., lung cancer, breast cancer), diagnosis and / or treatment in an upright position offers potential advantages over routine diagnosis and / or treatment in a horizontal position. While imaging and / or treatment of upright patients offers diagnostic and therapeutic advantages, medical imaging and treatment require improved patient positioning systems to stabilize and support patients in a suitable upright position for delivering therapeutic radiation doses to target areas and for planning treatment using medical imaging. The technology presented herein relates to an improved arm support for patient positioning systems used to support patients in an upright position.

[0008] In one aspect, this disclosure provides an arm support comprising: a first linkage including a releasable attachment; and a second linkage coupled to the first linkage and movable relative to the first linkage about a first axis. The arm support further includes a third linkage coupled to the second linkage and movable relative to the second linkage about a second axis. The third linkage includes a saddle-shaped portion configured to receive a portion of a patient's arm. The arm support further includes a handle rod coupled to the third linkage.

[0009] In some embodiments, the first axis is spaced apart from and parallel to the second axis.

[0010] In some embodiments, the releasable attachment includes a channel configured to at least partially receive a support structure.

[0011] In some embodiments, the second linkage device is capable of traveling at least 90 degrees relative to the first linkage device about the first axis.

[0012] In some embodiments, the third linkage device is capable of moving at least 90 degrees relative to the second linkage device about the second axis.

[0013] In some embodiments, the second linkage device is connected to the first end of the third linkage device, and the handle rod is connected to the second end of the third linkage device; and wherein the saddle-shaped portion is positioned between the first end and the second end.

[0014] In some embodiments, the saddle-shaped portion includes a convex support surface.

[0015] In some embodiments, the handle lever is connected to the third linkage device via a ball-and-socket interface.

[0016] In some embodiments, the handle lever is curved.

[0017] In one aspect, this disclosure provides a patient support assembly, comprising: an upright backrest; a first arm support adjustablely connected to the backrest along a first edge of the backrest; and a second arm support adjustablely connected to the backrest along a second edge of the backrest.

[0018] In some embodiments, the first arm support includes at least one joint and is movable between a first plurality of configurations; and wherein the second arm support includes at least one joint and is movable between a second plurality of configurations.

[0019] In some embodiments, one of the first plurality of configurations is a lateral configuration, wherein at least a portion of the first arm support extends beyond the first edge of the backrest.

[0020] In some embodiments, the first arm support includes a plurality of linkage devices having at least two axes of rotation.

[0021] In some embodiments, the first arm support can be releasably clamped to the first edge of the backrest.

[0022] In some embodiments, the second arm support can be adjusted relative to the backrest independently of the first arm support.

[0023] In one aspect, this disclosure provides a method comprising: positioning a patient’s arm in a lowered position and connecting it to an arm support of an upright backrest; raising the arm support to an elevated position; and treating or imaging the patient with a beam intersecting the patient; wherein the arm is spaced apart from the beam.

[0024] In some embodiments, the method further includes: raising the arm support to an intermediate position and pausing it before raising the arm support to the raised position.

[0025] In some embodiments, the method further includes adjusting the configuration of the arm support after the arm support is in the raised position.

[0026] In some embodiments, the method further includes raising the handle of the arm support after positioning the patient's arm into the arm support in the lowered position.

[0027] In some embodiments, the method further includes: positioning the patient's second arm in a lowered position and connecting it to the second arm support of the upright backrest, and raising the second arm support to an elevated position.

[0028] In some embodiments, the method further includes lowering the arm support to the lowered position after treating or imaging the patient.

[0029] In one aspect, this disclosure provides an upright backrest including at least one incision configured to receive a portion of a patient's arm.

[0030] In one aspect, this disclosure provides a method for treating a patient in an upright position with the patient's arms pointing downwards and backwards.

[0031] In one aspect, this disclosure provides an arm support comprising: a releasable attachment; a saddle-shaped portion configured to receive a portion of a patient's arm; a handle bar portion; and an indexing system that allows for repeated positioning of the arm support.

[0032] In some implementations, the arm support can be raised and lowered by an operator.

[0033] In some implementations, the arm support is removably attached to the backrest.

[0034] In some embodiments, the saddle-shaped portion includes a convex support surface.

[0035] Some of the steps, operations, or processes described herein may be performed or implemented using one or more hardware or software modules, alone or in combination with other means. In some embodiments, the software modules are implemented as a computer program product comprising a computer-readable medium containing computer program code that can be executed by a computer processor to perform any or all of the described steps, operations, or processes.

[0036] Based on the teachings contained herein, additional implementation methods will be apparent to those skilled in the art. Attached Figure Description

[0037] These and other features, aspects and advantages of this technology will be better understood with reference to the following figures.

[0038] Figure 1 This is a perspective view of a patient in a patient support assembly with two arm supports, showing one arm support in the front configuration and supporting the arm in the raised position.

[0039] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 A top view of the patient support components.

[0040] Figure 3 yes Figure 1 A perspective view of the arm support component of the patient support assembly, showing the arm support component in the front configuration.

[0041] Figure 4 yes Figure 1 A perspective view of a patient support assembly, showing an arm support member in a lateral configuration supporting the arm in an elevated position.

[0042] Figure 5 yes Figure 4 A top view of the patient support components.

[0043] Figure 6 yes Figure 4 A perspective view of the arm support component of the patient support assembly, showing the arm support component in a lateral configuration.

[0044] Figure 7 yes Figure 1 A perspective view of a patient support assembly, showing an arm support member in a loading configuration with the arm supported in a lowered position.

[0045] Figure 8 yes Figure 7 A top view of the patient support components.

[0046] Figure 9 yes Figure 1A perspective view of the patient support components, with the upright backrest removed for clarity.

[0047] Figure 10 It is a method of positioning a patient's arm for treatment or imaging.

[0048] Figure 11 It is a perspective view of a patient support assembly including an upright backrest, which includes a cutout for receiving a portion of the patient's arm.

[0049] Figure 12 yes Figure 11 Side view of the patient support components.

[0050] Figure 13 It is a perspective view of a patient support assembly including an upright backrest, which includes a cutout for receiving a portion of the patient's arm.

[0051] Figure 14 yes Figure 13 Side view of the patient support components.

[0052] Figure 15 This is a perspective view of a patient in a patient support assembly with two arm supports, each supporting an arm in an elevated position.

[0053] Figure 16 yes Figure 15 The main view of the patient support component.

[0054] Figure 17 yes Figure 15 A top view of the patient support components.

[0055] Figure 18 yes Figure 15 Side view of the patient support components.

[0056] It should be understood that the accompanying drawings are not necessarily drawn to scale, and the objects in the drawings are not necessarily drawn relative to each other. The drawings are descriptions intended to make clearer and more understandable various embodiments of the devices, systems, and methods disclosed herein. Where possible, the same reference numerals will be used throughout the drawings to refer to the same or similar parts. Furthermore, it should be understood that the drawings are not intended to limit the scope of this teaching in any way. Detailed Implementation

[0057] This article provides techniques related to radiographic imaging and treatment, particularly (but not limited to) arm supports configured to support the arm of a patient positioned in an upright position during medical imaging and / or medical treatment, as well as related methods, kits, and systems.

[0058] In this detailed description of various embodiments, numerous specific details are set forth for illustrative purposes to provide a thorough understanding of the disclosed embodiments. However, those skilled in the art will understand that these various embodiments can be practiced with or without these specific details. In other cases, structures and apparatus are shown in block diagram form. Furthermore, those skilled in the art will readily understand that the specific order in which the methods are proposed and performed is illustrative, and that the order is expected to vary while still remaining within the spirit and scope of the various embodiments disclosed herein.

[0059] All references and similar materials cited in this application, including but not limited to patents, patent applications, articles, books, papers, and internet web pages, are expressly incorporated herein by reference in their entirety for any purpose. Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which the various embodiments described herein pertain. When the definitions of terms in the incorporated references differ from those provided in this teaching, the definitions provided in this teaching shall prevail. The section headings used herein are for organizational purposes only and should not be construed as limiting the subject matter in any way.

[0060] definition To facilitate understanding of this technology, several terms and phrases are defined below. Additional definitions are set forth throughout the detailed description.

[0061] Throughout the specification and claims, unless the context clearly specifies otherwise, the following terms shall take on the meaning explicitly relevant herein. The phrase "in one embodiment" as used herein does not necessarily refer to the same embodiment, although it may refer to the same embodiment. Furthermore, the phrase "in another embodiment" as used herein does not necessarily refer to different embodiments, although they may be different embodiments. Therefore, as described below, various embodiments of the invention can be readily combined without departing from the scope or spirit of the invention.

[0062] Additionally, as used herein, unless the context explicitly states otherwise, the term "or" is an inclusive "or" operator and is equivalent to the term "and / or". Unless the context explicitly states otherwise, the term "based on" is not exclusive and allows for basing on additional factors not described. Furthermore, throughout the specification, the meanings of "an", "a", and "the" include plural references. The meaning of "in" includes both "in" and "on".

[0063] As used herein, the terms “about,” “approximately,” “substantially,” and “significantly” are understood by those skilled in the art and may vary to some extent depending on the context in which they are used. If the use of these terms is unclear to those skilled in the art when considering the context in which they are used, “about” and “approximately” mean less than or equal to 10% plus or minus the particular term, and “substantially” and “significantly” mean greater than 10% plus or minus the particular term.

[0064] As used herein, the disclosure of a range includes the disclosure of all values ​​within the entire range and further subdivisions of the range (including endpoints and subranges given for the range). As used herein, the disclosure of a numerical range includes the endpoints and each intermediate number therebetween having the same precision. For example, for the range 6–9, the numbers 7 and 8 are expected in addition to 6 and 9, and for the range 6.0–7.0, the numbers 6.0, 6.1, 6.2, 6.3, 6.4, 6.5, 6.6, 6.7, 6.8, 6.9, and 7.0 are explicitly expected.

[0065] As used herein, the suffix "-no" refers to a technical implementation that omits the features of the basic root word of the word with "-no" appended. That is, the term "no X" as used herein means "without X," where X is a technical feature omitted in the "no X" technique. For example, a "calcium-free" composition does not contain calcium, and a "mixing-free" method does not include a mixing step, etc.

[0066] Although the terms “first,” “second,” “third,” etc., are used herein to describe various steps, elements, compositions, parts, regions, layers, and / or portions, these steps, elements, compositions, parts, regions, layers, and / or portions should not be limited by these terms unless otherwise stated. These terms are used to distinguish one step, element, composition, part, region, layer, and / or portion from another step, element, composition, part, region, layer, and / or portion. Unless the context clearly indicates otherwise, terms such as “first,” “second,” and other numerical terms used herein do not imply order or sequence. Therefore, without departing from the art, a first step, element, composition, part, region, layer, or portion discussed herein may be referred to as a second step, element, composition, part, region, layer, or portion.

[0067] As used herein, the terms “existence” or “non-existence” (or alternatively, “existing” or “non-existent”) are used in a relative sense to describe the quantity or level of a particular entity (e.g., a part, function, element). For example, when an entity is said to “exist,” it means that the level or quantity of that entity is above a predetermined threshold; conversely, when an entity is said to “non-existent,” it means that the level or quantity of that entity is below a predetermined threshold. The predetermined threshold may be a detectability threshold or any other threshold associated with a specific test used to detect the entity. When an entity is “detected,” it “exists”; when an entity is “not detected,” it “does not exist.”

[0068] As used herein, "system" refers to a plurality of real and / or abstract components that operate together for a common purpose. In some embodiments, "system" is an integrated collection of hardware and / or software components. In some embodiments, each component of the system interacts with and / or is associated with one or more other components. In some embodiments, system refers to a combination of components and software used to control and direct methods. For example, a "system" or "subsystem" may include one or more of the following or any combination thereof: mechanical devices, hardware, hardware components, circuits, lines, logic designs, logic components, software, software modules, components of software or software modules, software processes, software instructions, software routines, software objects, software functions, software classes, software programs, files containing software, etc., to perform the functions of the system or subsystem. Therefore, methods and apparatus of embodiments, or certain aspects or portions thereof, may take the form of program code (e.g., instructions) embodied in tangible media such as floppy disks, CD-ROMs, hard disk drives, flash memory, or any other machine-readable storage media, wherein the machine becomes the apparatus for practicing the embodiments when the program code is loaded into and executed by it. When the program code is implemented on a programmable computer, the computing device typically includes a processor, a processor-readable storage medium (e.g., volatile and non-volatile memory and / or storage elements), at least one input device, and at least one output device. One or more programs may implement or utilize the processes described in conjunction with the embodiments, for example, by using application programming interfaces (APIs), reusable controls, etc. Such programs are preferably implemented in a high-level procedural or object-oriented programming language to communicate with the computer system. However, if desired, one or more programs may be implemented in assembly language or machine language. In any case, the language is a compiled or interpreted language and is combined with the hardware implementation.

[0069] As used herein, the term “computed tomography” is abbreviated as “CT” and refers to both tomographic and non-tomographic radiography. For example, the term “CT” refers to various forms of CT, including but not limited to X-ray CT, positron emission tomography (PET), single-photon emission computed tomography (SPECT), and photon counting computed tomography. Generally, computed tomography (CT) involves using an X-ray source and a detector that rotates around the patient, followed by the reconstruction of images onto different planes. In some embodiments of CT (e.g., devices, apparatuses, and methods provided for CT), the X-ray source is a static source and the patient rotates relative to the static source. The X-ray current used in CT describes the current flow from the cathode to the anode and is typically measured in milliamperes (mA).

[0070] As used herein, the term "constructed as [verb]" means that the identified element or component has a structure that is shaped, sized, set, connected, and / or configured to perform the identified verb. For example, a component "constructed to move" is movably connected to another element and includes an element that causes the component to move, or the component is otherwise configured to move in response to other elements or components. Thus, as used herein, "constructed as [verb]" describes structure rather than function. Furthermore, as used herein, "constructed as [verb]" means that the identified element or component is intended and designed to perform the identified verb.

[0071] As used herein, the term "associated" means that elements are part of the same component and / or operate together or interact with each other in some way. For example, a car has four tires and four wheel covers. While all elements are connected as part of the car, it is understood that each wheel cover is "associated" with a specific tire.

[0072] As used herein, the term "connection" refers to two or more components fixed together by any suitable means. Therefore, in some embodiments, the expression "connected" of two or more parts or components should mean that these parts are directly or indirectly connected or operate together, for example, through one or more intermediate parts or components. As used herein, "direct connection" means that two elements are in direct contact with each other. As used herein, "fixed connection" or "fixed" means that two components are connected so as to move as a whole while maintaining a constant orientation relative to each other. Therefore, when two elements are connected, all parts of these elements are connected. However, when describing the connection of a specific part of a first element to a second element, for example, the connection of the first end of an axle to a first wheel, it means that the specific part of the first element is positioned closer to the second element than its other parts. Furthermore, unless the upper object is otherwise substantially held in place, an object resting on another object held in place only by gravity is not "connected" to the lower object. That is, for example, a book on a table is not connected to it, but a book glued to the table is connected to it.

[0073] As used herein, the terms "removable connection" or "temporary connection" mean that one component is connected to another component in a substantially temporary manner. That is, the two components are connected in a way that allows for easy connection or separation of the components without damaging them. Therefore, components with a "removable connection" can be easily disconnected and reconnected without causing damage to the components.

[0074] As used herein, the term "operably coupled" means that multiple elements or components are coupled such that when a first element moves from one position / configuration to another, a second element also moves between positions / configurations, wherein each of the multiple elements or components is movable between the first and second positions, or between the first and second configurations. It is noteworthy that the first element is "operably coupled" to another element, and vice versa.

[0075] As used herein, the term “rotatably coupled” means two or more components coupled in such a way that at least one component can rotate relative to the other component.

[0076] As used herein, the term “translationally coupled” refers to two or more components coupled in such a manner that at least one component can be translated relative to the other component.

[0077] As used herein, the term "temporarily set" means that a first element or component is placed on a second element or component in a manner that allows the first element / component to move without disengaging or otherwise manipulating it. For example, a book is simply placed on a table, for instance, without being glued or secured to the table, but is "temporarily set" on the table.

[0078] As used herein, the term "corresponding" means that two structural components are similar in size and shape to each other and are joined with minimal friction. Therefore, the opening "corresponding" to a component is slightly larger than the component, allowing the component to pass through the opening with minimal friction. This definition can be modified if the two components fit together "closely." In this case, the difference in component size is even smaller, thus increasing the amount of friction. If the element defining the opening and / or the component inserted into the opening is made of a deformable or compressible material, the opening can even be slightly smaller than the component inserted into the opening. Regarding surfaces, shapes, and lines, two or more "corresponding" surfaces, shapes, or lines generally have the same size, shape, and profile.

[0079] As used herein, the term "travel path" or "path" when used in association with a moving element includes the space through which the element moves during its motion. Therefore, all inherently moving elements have a "travel path" or "path".

[0080] As used herein, the expression “engage” between two or more parts or components shall mean that the elements apply force or bias to each other directly or through one or more intermediate elements or components. Furthermore, as used herein with respect to a moving part, the moving part may “engage” another element during movement from one position to another and / or may “engage” another element once it is in the described position. Therefore, it should be understood that the expressions “when element A moves to the first position of element A, element A engages element B” and “when element A is in the first position of element A, element A engages element B” are equivalent expressions and mean that element A engages element B either when it moves to the first position of element A and / or element A engages element B either when it is in the first position of element A.

[0081] As used herein, the term "operably engaged" means "engaged and movable." That is, when used relative to a first component that is configured to move or rotate, "operably engaged" means that the first component applies a force sufficient to cause the second component to move. For example, consider placing a screwdriver in contact with a screw. When no force is applied to the screwdriver, it is merely "attached" to the screw. If an axial force is applied to the screwdriver, it presses against the screw and "engages" it. However, when a rotational force is applied to the screwdriver, it "operably engages" the screw and causes it to rotate. Furthermore, for electronic components, "operably engaged" means that one component controls another component via a control signal or current.

[0082] As used herein, the term “quantity” should refer to an integer of one or more (e.g., multiple).

[0083] As used herein, in the phrases “[x] moves between its first and second positions” or “[y] is constructed to move [x] between its first and second positions,” “[x]” is the name of the element or component. Furthermore, when [x] is an element or component that moves between multiple positions, the pronoun “its” refers to “[x]”, i.e., the named element or component preceding the pronoun “its.”

[0084] As used herein, the “radial side / surface” of a circular or cylindrical body is a side / surface that extends around or through a height line at its center. As used herein, the “axial side / surface” of a circular or cylindrical body is a side extending in a plane substantially perpendicular to the height line at its center. That is, generally speaking, for a cylindrical soup pot, the “radial side / surface” is the substantially circular sidewall, and “one or more axial side / surfaces” are the top and bottom of the soup pot.

[0085] As used herein, a “diagnostic” test includes detecting or identifying a subject’s disease state or condition, determining the likelihood that a subject is infected with a given disease or condition, determining the likelihood that a subject with a disease or condition will respond to treatment, determining the prognosis (or possible progression or regression) of a subject with a disease or condition, and determining the effect of treatment on a subject with a disease or condition. For example, a diagnosis can be used to detect the presence or likelihood of a subject having cancer, or the likelihood that such a subject will have a favorable response to a compound (e.g., a drug, such as a pharmaceutical product) or other treatment.

[0086] As used in this article, the term "symptom" generally refers to a disease, pathology, injury, event, or change in health status.

[0087] As used herein, the term "treating" or "treatment" in relation to a condition means preventing the condition, slowing the onset or progression of the condition, reducing the risk of developing the condition, preventing or delaying the development of symptoms associated with the condition, reducing or ending symptoms associated with the condition, generating complete or partial remission of the condition, or some combination thereof. In some embodiments, "treatment" includes exposing a patient or a part thereof (e.g., tissues, organs, body parts, or other local areas of the patient's body) to radiation (e.g., electromagnetic radiation, ionizing radiation).

[0088] As used herein, the term "beam" refers to a stream of radiation (e.g., electromagnetic waves and / or particle radiation). In some embodiments, the beam is generated by a source and confined to a small solid angle. In some embodiments, the beam is collimated. In some embodiments, the beam is generally unidirectional. In some embodiments, the beam is divergent.

[0089] As used herein, the terms "patient" or "subject" refer to a mammal identified and / or selected for imaging and / or treatment with radiation. Thus, in some embodiments, the patient or subject is exposed to a beam of radiation, such as a primary beam generated by a radiation source. In some embodiments, the patient or subject is a human. In some embodiments, the patient or subject is a veterinary or farm animal, livestock or pet, or an animal used for clinical research. In some embodiments, the subject or patient has cancer and / or the subject or patient has been identified as having cancer or at risk of developing cancer.

[0090] As used herein, the terms "treatment volume" or "imaging volume" refer to the volume (e.g., tissue) of a patient selected for imaging and / or treatment with radiation. For example, in some embodiments, the "treatment volume" or "imaging volume" includes a tumor within a cancer patient. As used herein, the term "healthy tissue" refers to a patient volume (e.g., tissue) that is not and / or does not include the treatment volume. In some embodiments, the imaging volume is larger than the treatment volume and includes the treatment volume.

[0091] As used herein, the term "radiation source" or "source" refers to a device that produces radiation (e.g., ionizing radiation) in the form of photons (e.g., described as particles or waves). In some embodiments, a radiation source is a linear accelerator ("linac") that produces X-rays or electrons to treat cancer patients by contacting tumors with X-ray or electron beams. In some embodiments, a source produces particles (e.g., photons, electrons, neutrons, hadrons, ions (e.g., protons, carbon ions, other heavy ions)). In some embodiments, a source produces electromagnetic waves (e.g., X-rays and gamma rays with wavelengths in the range of about 1 pm to about 1 nm). Although it is understood that radiation can be described as having wave-particle duality, it is sometimes convenient to refer to radiation as a wave and sometimes as a particle. Therefore, without limiting the technique and understanding the quantum mechanical laws that stipulate that every particle or quantum entity is described as a particle or a wave, both descriptions will be used throughout.

[0092] As used herein, the term "static source" refers to a source that does not rotate around a patient during imaging or treatment. Specifically, the "static source" remains fixed relative to an axis passing through the patient during imaging or treatment. Although the patient may rotate around said axis to create a relative motion between the static source and the rotating patient equivalent to the relative motion of the source rotating around the static patient, the static source does not move during imaging or treatment with reference to a third object, a frame of reference (e.g., the patient's examination room), or the patient's axis of rotation, even though the patient rotates relative to said third object, said frame of reference (e.g., the patient's examination room), or the patient's axis of rotation. Therefore, when a static source is mounted on a mobile platform and the mobile platform moves to transport the static source, the static source can thus move relative to the ground and fixed objects on the ground. Therefore, the term "static source" can refer to a moving "static source" provided that the moving "static source" does not rotate around an axis of rotation passing through the patient during imaging or treatment. Additionally, a static source can be translated and / or rotated around the patient to position the static source before or after imaging or treatment of the patient. Therefore, the term "static source" can refer to a source that is translated or rotated around the patient during non-imaging and non-treatment use, such as positioning the source relative to the patient when the patient is not receiving imaging and / or treatment. In some implementations, the "static source" is a photon source and is therefore referred to as a "static photon source."

[0093] describe refer to Figure 1 The patient support assembly 10 includes an upright backrest 14, a first arm support 18, and a second arm support 22. The first arm support 18 is adjustablely coupled to the backrest 14 along a first edge 26. In some embodiments, the first arm support 18 is releasably clamped to the first edge 26 of the backrest 14. The second arm support 22 is adjustablely coupled to the backrest 14 along a second edge 30. As further detailed herein, the arm supports 18, 22 are capable of being positioned along the backrest 14 in multiple locations (e.g., a raised position). Figure 1 , Figure 4 ) and descent position ( Figure 7 The arm supports 18 and 22 can move between various configurations (e.g., forward configuration). Figure 1 ), lateral configuration ( Figure 4 ) and loading configuration ( Figure 7 Move between )) . Reference Figures 1-3 The arm support 18 is shown in the raised position and forward configuration.

[0094] refer to Figure 3The arm support 18 includes a first linkage 34 having a releasable attachment 38, and a second linkage 42 coupled to the first linkage 34 and movable relative to the first linkage 34 about a first axis 46. In some embodiments, the releasable attachment 38 includes a channel configured to at least partially receive a support structure (e.g., a backrest edge, post, etc.). In some embodiments, the second linkage 42 is movable relative to the first linkage 34 about the first axis 46 by a range of travel of at least 90 degrees. In some embodiments, the second linkage 42 is movable relative to the first linkage 34 about the first axis 46 by a range of travel of at least 180 degrees. In some embodiments, the first linkage 34 is releasably locked relative to the second linkage 42 by a locking connection. In some embodiments, the locking connection is released (e.g., unlocked) in response to a user-actuated release actuator (e.g., button, lever, slider, etc.).

[0095] The arm support 18 further includes a third linkage 50 coupled to the second linkage 42 and movable relative to the second linkage 42 about a second axis 54. In the illustrated embodiment, a first axis 46 is spaced apart from and parallel to the second axis 54. In the illustrated embodiment, the third linkage 50 includes a saddle-shaped portion 58 configured to receive a portion of the patient arm 62. In other words, the saddle-shaped portion 58 supports the patient arm 62 from below. In some embodiments, the third linkage 50 is movable relative to the second linkage 42 about the second axis 54 by a range of motion of at least 90 degrees. In some embodiments, the third linkage 50 is movable relative to the second linkage 42 about the second axis 54 by a range of motion of at least 180 degrees. Therefore, the arm support 18 includes a plurality of linkages 34, 42, 50 having at least two axes of rotation 46, 54 for adjusting the configuration of the arm support 18.

[0096] Continue to refer to Figure 3 The arm support 18 further includes a handle 66 coupled to the third linkage 50. In the illustrated embodiment, the second linkage 42 is coupled to a first end 70 of the third linkage 50, and the handle 66 is coupled to a second end 74 of the third linkage 50. In some embodiments, the handle 66 is coupled to the third linkage 50 via a ball-and-socket interface. In the illustrated embodiment, the handle 66 is arc-shaped. In the illustrated embodiment, a saddle-shaped portion 58 is positioned between the first end 70 and the second end 74 of the third linkage 50. In the illustrated embodiment, the saddle-shaped portion 58 includes a convex support surface 78 configured to contact and support the patient's arm 62.

[0097] In the illustrated embodiment, the first arm support 18 includes at least one joint and is movable between a first plurality of configurations; and the second arm support 22 includes at least one joint and is movable between a second plurality of configurations. Advantageously, the second arm support 22 is adjustable relative to the backrest 14 independently of the first arm support 18.

[0098] refer to Figures 4-6 The arm support 18 is shown in a raised position and a side configuration. In the side configuration, at least a portion of the first arm support 18 extends laterally beyond the first edge 26 of the backrest 14. Figure 5 ).

[0099] refer to Figures 7-8 The arm support 18 is shown in a lowered position and in a loaded configuration. Advantageously, the arm support 18 supports the full weight of the patient's arm 62. In conventional supine systems, the patient needs to raise their arm above their head and grasp the handle, with gravity helping to hold the arm in a fixed position. However, since gravity is not conducive to maintaining position in an upright system, the arm support 18 is designed to bear the full weight of the arm 62, as gravity would then prevent the arm 62 from remaining in place.

[0100] Another advantage of the arm support 18 is that someone other than the patient (such as a healthcare provider, technician, etc.) can lift the weight of the arm to the raised position without the patient expending muscle energy. In other words, the patient's arm 62 can be initially loaded into the arm support 18 in a lowered position. Figure 7 ), which is then lifted to the lifting position by someone other than the patient. Figure 1 and Figure 4 Patients often undergo surgery before radiation therapy; for example, the wound site may cause pain when raising their arm.

[0101] refer to Figure 9 The frame 82 supports the first arm support 18 and the second arm support 22. Specifically, the first arm support 18 is slidably connected to the first vertical pipe 86, and the second arm support 22 is slidably connected to the second vertical pipe 90.

[0102] refer to Figure 10 Method 100 includes: (step 101) positioning the patient's arm in a lowered position and connecting it to an arm support of an upright backrest (e.g., Figure 7 In some embodiments, method 100 further includes raising the handle of the arm support after positioning the patient's arm in the lowered position.

[0103] Method 100 further includes: (step 102) raising the arm support to a raised position (e.g., Figure 1 and Figure 4In some embodiments, method 100 includes raising the arm support to an intermediate position and pausing it before raising the arm support to the raised position in (step 102). In some embodiments, method 100 further includes adjusting the configuration of the arm support after it is in the raised position.

[0104] In some embodiments, method 100 further includes: positioning the patient's second arm in a lowered position and connecting it to a second arm support in an upright backrest, and raising the second arm support to an raised position.

[0105] Method 100 further includes (step 103) treating or imaging the patient with a beam intersecting the patient, wherein the arm is spaced apart from the beam. In other words, the beam does not intersect the patient's arm. In some embodiments, method 100 further includes lowering the arm support to a lowered position after treating or imaging the patient.

[0106] refer to Figure 11 and Figure 12 The patient support assembly 150 includes an upright backrest 154 and a handle grip 158. The upright backrest 154 includes a cutout 162 configured to receive a portion of a patient's arm. In other words, the cutout 162 allows the patient to position their arm and hand "down and back". In the illustrated embodiment, the handle grip 158 extends from the rear surface 166 of the backrest 154. With the aid of the patient support assembly 150, a patient can be in an upright position for imaging or treatment while their arm is positioned backward and away from the treatment or imaging beam. In some embodiments, the patient support assembly 150 includes projecting arm rests (one on each side) extending laterally from the backrest 154 for supporting the patient's arm in the down and back position. In some embodiments, the projecting arm rests are configured to be positioned between the patient's back and arm. In some embodiments, the backrest 154 is curved. In some embodiments, at least a portion of the handle grip 158 extends parallel to the backrest 154.

[0107] refer to Figure 13 and Figure 14 The patient support assembly 200 includes an upright backrest 204 and a handle grip 208. The upright backrest 204 includes a cutout 212 configured to receive a portion of the patient's arm. In other words, the cutout 212 allows the patient to position their arm "down and back". In the illustrated embodiment, the handle grip 208 extends from the front surface 216 of the backrest 204. With the aid of the patient support assembly 200, the patient can undergo imaging or treatment in an upright position while positioning their arm backward and away from the treatment or imaging beam.

[0108] This disclosure provides a method for treating a patient in an upright position with their arms pointing downwards and backwards.

[0109] refer to Figures 15-18 The patient support assembly 250 includes an upright backrest 254, a first arm support 258, and a second arm support 262. The first arm support 258 is adjustablely coupled to the backrest 254 along a first edge 266. In some embodiments, the first arm support 258 is releasably clamped to the first edge 266 of the backrest 254. The second arm support 262 is adjustablely coupled to the backrest 254 along a second edge 270 opposite to the first edge 266. Similar to other arm supports detailed herein, the arm supports 258 and 262 are movable along the backrest 254 between multiple positions (e.g., raised position, lowered position, intermediate position, etc.). In the illustrated embodiment, the arm supports 258 and 262 have no joints or interconnecting linkages. In some embodiments, the patient places their arm in the support, and the therapist raises the support without the patient exerting any effort.

[0110] The arm support 258 includes: a releasable attachment; a saddle-shaped portion configured to receive a portion of a patient's arm; a handle bar portion; and an indexing system that allows for repositioning of the arm support. In some embodiments, the arm support can be raised and lowered by an operator. In some embodiments, the arm support 258 is removably coupled to a backrest 254. In some embodiments, the saddle-shaped portion includes a convex support surface.

[0111] While the disclosure herein relates to certain exemplary implementations, it should be understood that these implementations are presented by way of example rather than limitation.

[0112] For all purposes, all publications and patents mentioned in the foregoing specification are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety. Various modifications and variations in the use of the described compositions, methods, and techniques will be apparent to those skilled in the art without departing from the scope and spirit of the described technology. Although the technology has been described in conjunction with specific exemplary embodiments, it should be understood that the claimed invention should not be unduly limited to these specific embodiments. Indeed, various modifications to the described modes of implementation that are obvious to those skilled in the art are intended to fall within the scope of the appended claims.

Claims

1. An arm support member, comprising: A first linkage device, the first linkage device including a releasable attachment; A second linkage device is connected to the first linkage device and is capable of moving relative to the first linkage device about a first axis. A third linkage device is connected to the second linkage device and is movable relative to the second linkage device about a second axis; wherein the third linkage device includes a saddle-shaped portion configured to receive a portion of the patient's arm; and A handle rod, which is connected to the third linkage device.

2. The arm support member according to claim 1, wherein, The first axis is spaced apart from the second axis and is parallel to the second axis.

3. The arm support member according to claim 1, wherein, The releasable attachment includes a channel configured to receive at least partially a support structure.

4. The arm support member according to claim 1, wherein, The second linkage device is capable of moving at least 90 degrees relative to the first linkage device around the first axis.

5. The arm support member according to claim 4, wherein, The third linkage device is capable of moving at least 90 degrees relative to the second linkage device around the second axis.

6. The arm support according to claim 1, wherein, The second linkage device is connected to the first end of the third linkage device, and the handle rod is connected to the second end of the third linkage device; Furthermore, the saddle-shaped portion is positioned between the first end and the second end.

7. The arm support member according to claim 1, wherein, The saddle-shaped portion includes a convex support surface.

8. The arm support according to claim 1, wherein, The handle rod is connected to the third linkage device via a ball joint interface.

9. The arm support according to claim 1, wherein, The handle is curved.

10. A patient support component, comprising: Upright backrest; A first arm support member is adjustablely connected to the backrest along a first edge of the backrest. and A second arm support is adjustablely connected to the backrest along the second edge of the backrest.

11. The patient support component according to claim 10, wherein, The first arm support includes at least one joint and is movable between a first plurality of configurations; and wherein the second arm support includes at least one joint and is movable between a second plurality of configurations.

12. The patient support component according to claim 11, wherein, In the first multiple configurations One configuration is a lateral configuration in which at least a portion of the first arm support extends beyond the first edge of the backrest.

13. The patient support component according to claim 11, wherein, The first arm support includes multiple linkage devices having at least two rotation axes.

14. The patient support component according to claim 10, wherein, The first arm support can be releasably clamped to the first edge of the backrest.

15. The patient support assembly according to claim 11, wherein, The second arm support can be adjusted relative to the backrest independently of the first arm support.

16. A method comprising: Position the patient's arm in the lowered position and connect it to the arm support of the upright backrest; Raise the arm support to the raised position; and The patient is treated or imaged using a beam intersecting with the patient; and The arm is separated from the beam.

17. The method of claim 16, further comprising: Before raising the arm support to the raised position, raise the arm support to the middle position and pause.

18. The method of claim 16, further comprising: After the arm support is in the raised position, adjust the configuration of the arm support.

19. The method of claim 16, further comprising: After positioning the patient's arm into the arm support in the lowered position, the handle of the arm support is raised.

20. The method of claim 16, further comprising: Position the patient's second arm to the lowered position and connect it to the second arm support of the upright backrest, and then raise the second arm support to the raised position.

21. The method of claim 16, further comprising: After treating or imaging the patient, the arm support is lowered to the lowered position.

22. An upright backrest including at least one incision configured to receive a portion of a patient's arm.

23. A method for treating a patient in an upright position with their arms down and back.

24. An arm support member, comprising: Releasable attachments; A saddle-shaped portion, which is configured to receive part of the patient's arm; Handle lever section; and An indexing system that allows for repeated positioning of the arm support.

25. The arm support according to claim 24, wherein, The arm support can be raised and lowered by the operator.

26. The arm support according to claim 24, wherein, The arm support is removably attached to the backrest.

27. The arm support according to claim 24, wherein, The saddle-shaped portion includes a convex support surface.

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