MAMMOGRAPHY SYSTEM WITH PROTECTION UNIT

Description

[0001] The invention relates to a mammography system with a protective unit that protects the head of the examination subject from collisions with the X-ray source.

[0002] In X-ray-based breast imaging, the patient is typically examined in a standing position. The breast is placed on an X-ray detector; opposite the detector is an X-ray tube which, in the case of a 3D image (tomosynthesis), is deflected relative to the detector normal. In modern devices, the X-ray tube moves at a speed of over 2° per second. The X-ray tube is positioned at a distance of approximately 650 mm from the detector, which means that for many patients the tube movement occurs at head level. Due to the necessary positioning, there is only a few centimeters of space between the moving tube and the patient's head. A collision with the moving X-ray tube is therefore theoretically possible and should be prevented as far as possible using the system's hardware and software.

[0003] From the document DE 10 2006 007 833 A1, an imaging device, such as a mammography device, for generating radiographic images and / or images of an object reconstructed by tomosynthesis is known. This device includes an X-ray source, a breast mount arranged between the X-ray source and an image receptor, the X-ray source being arranged in a head element attached to a rotatably mounted arm supported by a first carriage sliding on a column, and at least one radiolucent compression plate arranged between the radiation source and the breast mount and mounted for sliding on a second carriage to compress a patient's breast.The device comprises at least one screen for protecting the head or neck of the patient, wherein the screen can be held in a fixed position relative to the head or neck of the patient, between the path of the X-ray source and the head or neck of the patient during a tomographic acquisition in which the X-ray source is rotated, or between the X-ray source and the head or neck of the patient when radiographic images are to be acquired, wherein the screen can be retracted or removed.

[0004] WO 2009 / 044054 A1 describes a diagnostic unit, in particular a mammography device or a tomosynthesis device, with a protective shield that can be fixed in place to an object fixed on a stage, with which a spatial separation of the patient and the X-ray head is achieved.

[0005] The object of the invention is to provide a mammography system which enables comfortable protection of the patient.

[0006] The object is achieved according to the invention by a mammography system according to claim 1.

[0007] The invention may in particular relate to a mammography system comprising: a stand unit for arranging the mammography system on the floor, an L-shaped source unit, one leg of which is rotatably mounted and connected to an X-ray detector at a front of the stand unit and the other leg projects substantially vertically, so that an X-ray source is arranged at the end of the source unit remote from the stand element or the stand unit, a substantially U-shaped protective unit, the first leg of which is fastened to the stand unit, preferably to a rear of the stand unit, independently of the source unit, in a rotatable manner, the second leg extends along the top of the source unit in a first operating state, and the third leg has a protective shield for supporting the patient's head at the end of the protective unit remote from the stand element.

[0008] The mammography system is designed for installation and attachment to the floor, in particular in an examination room. The stand unit stands on the floor. An L-shaped source unit is arranged on the stand unit. The source unit is pivotally connected to the stand unit, enabling digital full-field mammography images from various angles, for example craniocaudal or mediolateral-oblique, and tomosynthesis images. The source unit is L-shaped. One leg runs essentially parallel to the front of the stand unit and comprises the pivotally mounted connection to the stand unit. Furthermore, an X-ray detector is arranged on the stand unit, which is also pivotally mounted, both with respect to the source unit and the stand unit. This allows the source unit and the X-ray detector to be rotated independently of one another relative to the stand unit.The breast can be positioned, in particular, on a housing surface of the X-ray detector. The breast, as the examination object, can be positioned between the X-ray source and the X-ray detector. The X-ray detector can be stationary, in particular during the X-ray exposure. For a digital full-field mammography image, the X-ray source can be positioned opposite the X-ray detector so that the central beam of the X-ray source strikes the detection surface of the X-ray detector perpendicularly. For a tomosynthesis image, the X-ray source can be rotated using the source unit, in particular within an angular range of 15 to 50 degrees. In the center projection, the central beam can strike the detection surface perpendicularly.

[0009] The protection unit is U-shaped. The protection unit comprises three legs. The first leg is mounted on the stand unit and can rotate independently of the source unit.

[0010] The first leg is preferably attached to a rear side of the stand unit in a pivotable or rotatable manner. The second leg extends along the top side of the source unit in a first operating state. This allows the first and second legs to follow the shape of the rear side of the stand unit and the top side of the source unit. The third leg has a protective shield for supporting the patient's head at the end of the protective unit remote from the stand element. The third leg can initially follow the shape of the source unit and then continue beyond it so that the protective shield is formed or can be aligned at the patient's head height. The protective shield can in particular be designed such that it remains in a fixed location throughout the entire recording or examination and the head can remain leaning against the protective shield throughout the entire recording or examination.This can advantageously protect the patient's head, especially from collisions caused by movements of the source unit. Fears of collision can be reduced, allowing for a more comfortable examination.

[0011] The protection unit can be advantageously improved, particularly with regard to the hardware interface, collision protection, and additional functions. Mounting the protection unit independently of the source unit can advantageously simplify operation of the mammography system. The head can be better protected against collisions, or the fear of such collisions can be reduced.

[0012] In one embodiment, the mammography system comprises a stand unit, a source unit, and a protection unit. The stand unit is designed for placement of the mammography system on the floor. The L-shaped source unit has one leg rotatably mounted on a front side of the stand unit, and the other leg protrudes substantially vertically, such that an X-ray source is arranged at the end of the source unit remote from the stand unit. The X-ray detector is arranged at the front of the stand unit. The X-ray detector can be rotatably mounted, in particular independently, relative to the stand unit or the source unit. The protection unit, in particular substantially U-shaped, can comprise three legs. The first leg can be enclosed by the stand unit. The first leg can be attached to a rear side or a front side or within the stand unit.The first leg can be rigidly mounted or, in particular, independently of the source unit, mounted for rotation. If the first leg is enclosed by the stand unit, the protective unit can, in particular, be rigidly connected to the stand unit. The second leg can extend along the top of the source unit in a first operating state. The third leg has a protective shield for supporting the patient's head at the end of the protective unit remote from the stand element.

[0013] According to one aspect of the invention, the protective unit is configured to be substantially form-fitting along the rear side of the stand unit and along the source unit in a first operating state. The protective unit follows the shape of these components at least from the rotatably mounted attachment to the stand unit to the top side of the source unit and along the top side of the source unit. A gap for frictionless movement of the source unit can preferably be provided.

[0014] According to one aspect of the invention, the protective unit is stationary in an acquisition state. The protective unit can be stationary during the scan (i.e., the movement of the X-ray source). The protective unit can be rotatable as a whole. Automatic rotation can be performed, depending on the set view / task, or manually by the MTRA. A view can be referred to as a position, for example, cranio-caudal or mediolateral-oblique. For example, the protective unit can be rotated for an acquisition in the mediolateral-oblique position. This position can describe an orientation of the protective unit in a second operating state.

[0015] According to one aspect of the invention, the protective shield is adaptable to the examination subject. The contact surface with the patient can be movable and can be adjusted depending on the patient's size or the view / task. The respective adjustment can occur automatically based on the selected view / task.

[0016] The contact surface with the patient can be designed to be foldable. The protective unit can be designed to be foldable as a whole. The contact surface with the patient is removable and, if necessary, replaceable. For example, an opaque protective shield can be selected, for example, for biopsy. The correct function of the protective unit can be visually checked, e.g., by installing light guides, which, when correctly installed, produce a corresponding glow. In various embodiments, the protective unit can be attached to the stage, to the stand unit, or to a stationary intermediate ring between the stand unit and the source unit.

[0017] The protective unit can be designed to be divisible and removable for transport and packaging of the device. The protective unit can include a device for attachment to a ceiling (e.g., a truck).

[0018] According to the invention, the protective unit comprises sensors for collision protection. In addition to its mechanical function of collision protection between the patient's head and the X-ray source, the protective unit can include improved collision protection. Sensors, for example based on ultrasound, light, sound, or capacitive sensors can be provided to detect a suspected collision before it occurs and to automatically stop the system. Force sensors can be used to stop the movement of the source unit if the lateral force on the protective unit is too great. This can prevent possible crushing, e.g. if a finger is caught between the protective unit and the source unit. If the lateral force on the protective unit becomes too great, the protective unit can fold away, thus preventing crushing.The cooperation of the sensors and the workflow with existing cameras can enable an early collision warning.

[0019] According to one aspect of the invention, the protective shield automatically folds away when a force exceeds a threshold. The protective shield can be returned to the protective position, i.e., folded back to its original position, for further exposure.

[0020] According to one aspect of the invention, a signal connection is provided for transmitting a collision hazard from the protection unit to the control system of the X-ray system. The signal connection can be wired or wireless.

[0021] The protective unit can have additional functions. The protective unit can contain a mood light to create a pleasant atmosphere or to indicate an operating status. Depending on the operating status, the protective unit, in particular the protective shield, can illuminate in a different color. The lighting can be provided over the entire protective unit or in a partial area. The protective unit can provide a light field (working light). The working light can be used to illuminate the examination space between the X-ray source and the X-ray detector. In particular, the working light can illuminate the top of the X-ray detector, thus simplifying the positioning of the breast. After transmitting coordinates, the protective unit can project markers onto the breast. Advantageously, the breast can be positioned more easily and precisely. The protective unit can be able to display the status of the workflow or compression.The protective unit can be equipped with a display for this purpose. The protective unit can use lighting to indicate the status of the workflow or compression. Presence sensors on the protective unit can automatically switch on the work light. For example, the work light can be automatically activated as soon as a patient approaches. Furthermore, the presence sensor can influence the information on the display and switch between information for the patient and for the medical technician. For example, the display can focus on the patient or the medical technician depending on the direction of approach.

[0022] The protective unit can contain a display with or without a touch surface or consist of one. Pulse and / or temperature measurements can be carried out via the touch surface. A projector can project information or a mood light onto the protective unit. A force feedback function can be used to communicate information to the patient or medical technician via vibrations. The protective unit can have automatic or semi-automatic self-cleaning (automatic disinfection). The protective unit can include an automatic roll holder so that the contact surface is replaced each time a patient changes (the contact surface consists of paper, cloth or film and is stabilized by a solid material without patient contact).A sensor monitors the position / orientation of the protective unit and may issue a warning (if the set workflow does not match the position of the face shield).

[0023] According to one aspect of the invention, the protection unit comprises a lighting unit. The lighting unit can comprise a mood light, i.e., mood lighting, lighting corresponding to the operating state, a compression or workflow status, or task lighting.

[0024] According to one aspect of the invention, the protective unit comprises a display unit and / or input unit. The display unit and / or input unit can be formed, in particular, on the protective shield or above it in the region of the X-ray source on the source unit.

[0025] According to one aspect of the invention, a presence sensor is provided to distinguish between the examination subject and the user. The presence sensor can be formed, in particular, on the protective shield or above it in the area of ​​the X-ray source on the source unit.

[0026] According to one aspect of the invention, the protective unit comprises a cleaning unit. The cleaning unit can be designed, in particular, for cleaning the protective shield. The cleaning unit can provide cleaning by means of UV light or disinfectant.

[0027] According to one aspect of the invention, a position sensor of the protection unit is connected to the control system of the X-ray system. This allows a signal regarding the operating state, compression, or workflow status to be transmitted. For example, this signal can be used to control the lighting.

[0028] According to one aspect of the invention, the protective shield has a convex curve toward the examination subject. This allows the protective shield to be substantially adapted to the shape of the patient's head. This advantageously increases patient comfort. This advantageously prevents the head from slipping sideways away from the protective shield.

[0029] According to one aspect of the invention, the shape of the protective shield is adapted to the shape of the head.

[0030] According to one aspect of the invention, the protective shield comprises a temperature sensor and / or a pulse sensor. Advantageously, a patient's condition can be determined. The condition can relate to a stress level, particularly with respect to the pulse sensor. The measured values ​​of the temperature sensor and / or the pulse sensor can be communicated to the MTRA, for example, via a display unit or acoustically or visually, particularly via the lighting unit. The measured values ​​of the temperature sensor and / or the pulse sensor can be saved together with the recording.

[0031] The protective shield in particular can have a novel shape. The curvature of the protective shield towards the patient can be designed so that the woman can rest her head as if in a bowl. It is difficult for the woman to lean her head past the protective shield and the hair should not be caught in the beam path or the movement of the tube. The curvature and width of the protective shield can be designed so that the woman can lean her head comfortably without feeling restricted. The protective shield can either be removed or pushed out of the way, e.g. for examinations in which it is not needed. The outward curve allows the woman to lean her head securely and comfortably. The advantage of this protective shield is that it is stationary and can therefore be used for all examinations, even oblique images; no additional protective shields are required.

[0032] In the following, exemplary embodiments of the invention are explained in more detail with reference to the drawings. Herein: FIG 1 schematically shows an X-ray system according to the invention in a first embodiment; FIG 2 schematically shows an X-ray system according to the invention in a second embodiment; FIG 3 schematically shows an X-ray system according to the invention in a third embodiment; FIG 4 schematically shows an X-ray system according to the invention in a fourth embodiment; FIG 5 schematically shows an X-ray system according to the invention in a fifth embodiment; FIG 6 schematically shows an X-ray system according to the invention in a sixth embodiment, and FIG 7 schematically shows an X-ray system according to the invention in a seventh embodiment.

[0033] The Fig. 1shows an exemplary embodiment of an X-ray system 1 according to the invention in a first embodiment. The mammography system 1 has a stand unit 2 for arranging the mammography system 1 on the floor. The mammography system 1 further has an L-shaped source unit 3, one leg 4 of which is rotatably mounted and connected to the X-ray detector 20 on a front side of the stand unit 2, and the other leg 5 protrudes essentially vertically, so that an X-ray source 6 is arranged at the end of the source unit 3 remote from the stand element or the stand unit. The mammography system 1 further has a substantially U-shaped protection unit 7, the first leg 9 of which is fastened to a rear side of the stand unit 2 in a rotatably mounted manner, independently of the source unit 3, the second leg 10 extends along the top side of the source unit 3 in a first operating state, and the third leg 11 is connected to the stand element orthe end of the protective unit 7 remote from the stand unit 2 has a protective shield 8 for supporting the patient's head.

[0034] The protection unit 7 is essentially designed to form a positive fit along the rear of the stand unit 2 and along the source unit 3 in a first operating state. The protection unit 7 is stationary in a receiving state.

[0035] The mammography system 1 is designed for installation and attachment to the floor, in particular in an examination room. The stand unit 2 stands on the floor. An L-shaped source unit 3 is arranged on the stand unit 2. The source unit 3 is pivotally connected to the stand unit 2, enabling digital full-field mammography images from various angles, for example, craniocaudal or mediolateral-oblique, and tomosynthesis images. The source unit 3 is L-shaped. One leg 4 runs essentially parallel to the front of the stand unit 2 and comprises the pivotally mounted connection to the stand unit 2. Furthermore, an X-ray detector 20 is arranged on the stand unit 2, which is also pivotally mounted, both with respect to the source unit 3 and the stand unit 2.This allows the source unit 3 and the X-ray detector 20 to be rotated independently of one another relative to the stand unit 2. The breast can be arranged, in particular, on a housing surface of the X-ray detector 20. The breast, as the examination object, can be arranged between the X-ray source 6 and the X-ray detector 20. The X-ray detector 20 can be stationary, in particular during the X-ray exposure. For a digital full-field mammography image, the X-ray source 6 can be arranged opposite the X-ray detector 20 so that the central beam of the X-ray source 6 strikes the detection surface of the X-ray detector 20 perpendicularly. For a tomosynthesis image, the X-ray source 6 can be rotated by means of the source unit 3, in particular within an angular range of 15 to 50 degrees. In the central projection, the central beam can strike the detection surface perpendicularly.

[0036] The protective unit 7 is U-shaped. The protective unit 7 comprises three legs 9, 10, 11. The first leg 9 is attached to the stand unit 2 in a rotatable manner, independent of the source unit 3. The first leg 9 is preferably attached to a rear side of the stand unit 2 in a pivotable or rotatable manner. In a first operating state, the second leg 10 extends along the top side of the source unit 3. This allows the first leg 9 and the second leg 10 to follow the shape of the rear side of the stand unit 2 and the top side of the source unit 3. The third leg 11 has a protective shield 8 for supporting the patient's head at the end of the protective unit 7 remote from the stand element or the stand unit 2. The third leg 11 can initially follow the shape of the source unit 3 and then be continued beyond it, so that the protective shield 8 is formed or can be aligned at a head height of the patient.The protective shield 8 can in particular be designed in such a way that it remains in a fixed location during the entire recording or examination and the head can remain leaning against the protective shield 8 during the entire recording or examination.

[0037] The protective unit 7 is formed in a substantially form-fitting manner along the rear side of the stand unit 2 and along the source unit 3 in a first operating state. The protective unit 7 follows the shape of these components at least from the rotatably mounted attachment to the stand unit 2 to the top side of the source unit 3 and along the top side of the source unit 3. A gap for friction-free movement of the source unit 3 can preferably be formed.

[0038] The protection unit 7 is stationary in one acquisition mode. The protection unit 7 can be stationary during the scan (i.e., the movement of the X-ray source). The protection unit 7 can be rotatable as a whole. Automatic rotation can be performed, depending on the set view / task, or manually by the radiographer. A view can be defined as a position, for example, cranio-caudal or mediolateral-oblique. For example, the protection unit 7 can be rotated in the mediolateral-oblique position for an acquisition. This position can describe an orientation of the protection unit 7 in a second operating mode.

[0039] The protective shield 8 is adjustable to the examination subject. The contact surface with the patient can be moved and adjusted depending on the patient's size or the view / task. The respective adjustment can occur automatically based on the selected view / task.

[0040] The contact surface with the patient can be designed to be foldable. The protective unit 7 can be designed to be foldable as a whole. The contact surface with the patient is removable and, if necessary, replaceable. For example, an opaque protective shield 8 can be selected, for example, for biopsy.

[0041] The correct function of the protection unit 7 can be visually checked, e.g., by installing light guides that, when correctly installed, produce a corresponding glow. In various embodiments, the protection unit 7 can be attached to the stage, to the stand unit 2, or to a stationary intermediate ring between the stand unit 2 and the source unit 3.

[0042] The protective unit 7 can be designed to be divisible and removable for transport and packaging of the device. The protective unit 7 can include a device for attachment to a ceiling (e.g., a truck).

[0043] The protective unit 7 comprises sensors for collision protection. In addition to its mechanical function of collision protection between the patient's head and the X-ray source 6, the protective unit 7 can include improved collision protection. Sensors, for example based on ultrasound, light, sound, or capacitive sensors can be provided to detect a suspected collision before it occurs and to automatically stop the system. Force sensors can be used to interrupt the movement of the source unit 3 if the lateral force on the protective unit 7 is too great. This can prevent possible crushing, e.g., if a finger is located between the protective unit 7 and the source unit 3. If the lateral force on the protective unit 7 becomes too great, the protective unit 7 can fold away, thus preventing crushing.The cooperation of the sensors and the workflow with existing cameras can enable an early collision warning.

[0044] If the applied force exceeds a threshold, the protective shield 8 automatically folds away. The protective shield 8 can be returned to the protective position, i.e., folded back to its original position, for further exposure.

[0045] A signal connection is provided to transmit a collision hazard warning from the protection unit 7 to the X-ray system control system. The signal connection can be wired or wireless.

[0046] The protective unit 7 can have additional functions. The protective unit 7 can contain a mood light to create a pleasant atmosphere or to indicate an operating state. Depending on the operating state, the protective unit 7, in particular the protective shield 8, can illuminate in a different color. The lighting can be provided in the area of ​​the entire protective unit 7 or in a partial area. The protective unit 7 can provide a light field (working light). The examination space between the X-ray source 6 and the X-ray detector 20 can be illuminated by means of the working light. In particular, the working light can illuminate the top side of the X-ray detector 20, thus simplifying the positioning of the breast. The protective unit 7 can project markers onto the breast after coordinates have been transmitted. Advantageously, the breast can be positioned more easily and precisely. The protective unit 7 can be able to display the status of the workflow orof compression. The protection unit 7 can have a display for this purpose. The protection unit 7 can use the lighting to display the status of the workflow or the compression. The work light can be switched on automatically via presence sensors on the protection unit 7. For example, the work light can be automatically activated as soon as a patient approaches. Furthermore, the presence sensor can influence the information on the display and switch between information for the patient and for the medical technician. For example, depending on the direction of approach, the display can focus on the patient or the medical technician.

[0047] The protection unit 7 can contain a display with or without a touch surface or consist of such a display. A pulse measurement and / or a temperature measurement can be performed via the touch surface. A projector can project information or a mood light onto the protection unit 7. A force feedback function can be used to communicate information to the patient or the medical technician via vibrations. The protection unit 7 can have automatic or semi-automatic self-cleaning (automatic disinfection). The protection unit 7 can contain an automatic roll holder so that the contact surface is replaced each time a patient changes (the contact surface consists of paper, cloth, or film and is stabilized by a solid material without patient contact).A sensor monitors the position / orientation of the protective unit 7 and may issue a warning (if the set workflow does not match the position of the face shield).

[0048] The protection unit 7 comprises a lighting unit. The lighting unit can comprise a mood light, i.e., mood lighting, lighting corresponding to the operating state, a compression or workflow status, or task lighting.

[0049] The protective unit 7 comprises a display unit and / or input unit. The display unit and / or input unit can be formed, in particular, on the protective shield 8 or above it in the area of ​​the X-ray source 6 on the source unit 3.

[0050] A presence sensor is provided to distinguish between the examination subject and the user. The presence sensor can be located, in particular, on the protective shield 8 or above it in the area of ​​the X-ray source 6 on the source unit 3.

[0051] The protective unit 7 comprises a cleaning unit. The cleaning unit can be designed, in particular, for cleaning the protective shield 8. The cleaning unit can provide cleaning using UV light or disinfectant.

[0052] A position sensor of the protection unit 7 is connected to the control system of the X-ray system or mammography system 1. This can be used to transmit a signal regarding the operating state, compression, or workflow status. For example, this signal can be used to control the lighting.

[0053] The protective shield 8 has a convex curvature toward the examination subject. This allows the protective shield 8 to be essentially adapted to the shape of a head. The shape of the protective shield 8 is adapted to the shape of the head.

[0054] The protective shield 8 comprises a temperature sensor and / or a pulse sensor. The condition can relate to a stress level, particularly with respect to the pulse sensor. The measured values ​​of the temperature sensor and / or the pulse sensor can be communicated to the MTRA, for example, via a display unit or acoustically or visually, particularly via the lighting unit. The measured values ​​of the temperature sensor and / or the pulse sensor can be saved together with the recording.

[0055] The protective shield 8 in particular can have a novel shape. The curvature of the protective shield 8 towards the patient can be designed so that the woman can rest her head as if in a bowl. The woman can only lean her head against the protective shield 8 with difficulty and the hair should not be in the path of the beam or the movement of the tube. The curvature and width of the protective shield 8 can be designed so that the woman can lean her head comfortably without feeling restricted. The protective shield 8 can either be removed or pushed away, e.g. for examinations in which it is not needed. The outward curvature allows the woman to lean her head securely and comfortably. The advantage of this protective shield 8 is that it is stationary and can therefore be used for all examinations, even for oblique images; no additional protective shields 8 are required.

[0056] The Fig. 2 to 7show exemplary embodiments of an X-ray system or mammography system according to the invention in a second to seventh embodiment. The protective shield 8 has a convex curvature towards the examination subject. The shape of the protective shield 8 is adapted to the shape of the head. Figures 2 , 5 and 7 show different perspectives of an exemplary first design of the protective shield 8. The Figures 3 , 4 and 6 show different perspectives of an exemplary second design of the protective shield 8.

[0057] Although the invention has been illustrated in detail by the preferred embodiment, the invention is not limited by the disclosed examples and other variations may be derived therefrom by those skilled in the art without departing from the scope of the invention.

Claims

1. Mammography system (1) having a. a stand unit (2) for arrangement of the mammography system on the floor; b. an L-shaped source unit (3), one arm (4) of which is connected to an X-ray detector (20) in a rotatably mounted manner on a front face of the stand unit, and the other arm (5) protrudes substantially perpendicularly, with the result that an X-ray source (6) is arranged at the end of the source unit remote from the stand unit; c. a substantially U-shaped protective unit (7), the first arm (9) of which is attached to the stand unit, in particular to a rear face thereof, in a rotatably mounted manner in particular such that it can rotate independently of the source unit, the second arm (10) extends along the top face of the source unit in a first operating state, and the third arm (11) has, at the end of the protective unit remote from the stand element, a protective shield (8) for supporting the patient's head, characterised in that the protective unit comprises sensors for collision protection.

2. Mammography system according to claim 1, wherein the protective unit is designed to be substantially form-fitting along the rear face of the stand unit and along the source unit in a first operating state.

3. Mammography system according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the protective unit is stationary in an acquisition state.

4. Mammography system according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the protective shield is adjustable to suit the object under examination.

5. Mammography system according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the protective shield pivots away automatically in the event that an applied force exceeds a threshold value.

6. Mammography system according to one of the preceding claims, wherein a signal connection is designed to transmit a collision risk from the protective unit to the controller of the mammography system.

7. Mammography system according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the protective unit comprises a lighting unit.

8. Mammography system according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the protective unit comprises a display unit and / or input unit.

9. Mammography system according to claim 8, wherein a presence sensor for distinguishing between object under examination and user is provided.

10. Mammography system according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the protective unit comprises a cleaning unit.

11. Mammography system according to one of the preceding claims, wherein a position sensor of the protective unit is connected to the controller of the mammography system.

12. Mammography system according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the protective shield has a convex curvature towards the object under examination.

13. Mammography system according to claim 12, wherein the shape of the protective shield conforms to the shape of the head.

14. Mammography system according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the protective shield comprises a temperature sensor and / or a heart rate sensor.