Immobilization of the patient

Abstract

Provided herein is technology related to medical diagnosis and treatment, and particularly, but not exclusively, to patient supports (non-integrated patient supports) that are separate from medical imaging or radiation therapy equipment and are replicas of patient supports (integrated patient supports) used in medical imaging and / or radiation therapy. The non-integrated patient supports are used to determine patient posture and / or patient support fixation configurations for subsequent use when positioning a patient for diagnosis and / or treatment using an integrated patient support that is a component of a medical diagnosis and treatment system.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 438,978, filed January 13, 2023, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

[0002] Provided herein is technology related to medical diagnosis and treatment, particularly, but not exclusively, to a patient support (non-integrated patient support) that is provided separate from a medical imaging or radiation therapy device and is a replica of a patient support (integrated patient support) used for medical imaging and / or radiation therapy. The non-integrated patient support is used to determine a patient posture and / or a fixed configuration of the patient support for later use when positioning a patient for diagnosis and / or treatment using an integrated patient support that is a component of a medical diagnostic and treatment system. A method of the present technology includes positioning a patient on a separate non-integrated patient support and recording the patient support configuration to provide the recorded patient support configuration for subsequent use. The system of the present technology includes a non-integrated patient support and a second patient support that is an integral part of the medical imaging and / or radiation therapy system. Data describing the patient support configuration recorded on the non-integrated patient support is then used to configure the integrated patient support for medical imaging and / or radiation therapy of the patient according to the recorded patient support configuration. [Background technology]

[0003] Conventional radiation therapy for a patient generally includes a simulation phase, a treatment planning phase, and a treatment phase. During the simulation phase, the patient is positioned in a treatment position on a patient support, a patient immobilization device is fabricated, and images of the patient are recorded (e.g., using computed tomography (CT)). During the treatment planning phase, a treatment plan for the patient is created using the pre-recorded images. During the treatment phase, the patient is positioned on the patient support using the immobilization device, and the patient is exposed to radiation according to the treatment plan. Thus, in conventional radiation therapy, imaging is performed using a medical imaging device (e.g., a CT scanner) separate from the radiation therapy apparatus (e.g., including a linac for producing therapeutic radiation).

[0004] Some recent advances in radiation therapy technology provide systems that combine medical imaging and radiation therapy components within a single integrated system, and further include a patient support that is used for both imaging and therapy. Thus, in these recent radiation therapy technologies, patient imaging and treatment are performed in the same location using the same patient support, which increases the accuracy and reproducibility of treatment. However, while one patient is being imaged or treated, the patient support is unavailable for determining patient position and creating immobilization devices and configurations for other patients. Summary of the Invention [Means for solving the problem]

[0005] Accordingly, provided herein are techniques, and related systems and methods, for a separate, non-integrated patient support provided separately from a medical imaging or radiation therapy device, where a patient can be positioned on the non-integrated patient support and the patient support configuration acquired and recorded while the integrated patient support of the medical imaging or radiation therapy system is being used for medical imaging or radiation therapy of another patient.

[0006] For example, in some embodiments, the present technology provides a medical treatment system comprising a subsystem comprising a first patient support (integrated patient support) and a second patient support (non-integrated patient support). In some embodiments, the first patient support is structured to support a patient in an upright position, and the second patient support is structured to support a patient in an upright position. In some embodiments, the upright position is a standing, sitting, kneeling, or perched position. In some embodiments, the subsystem is a medical imaging subsystem comprising an imaging source and a detector. In some embodiments, the subsystem is a radiation therapy subsystem comprising a radiation therapy source. In some embodiments, the subsystem is a medical imaging and radiation therapy subsystem comprising an imaging source, a detector, and a radiation therapy source. In some embodiments, the radiation therapy source is a stationary source. In some embodiments, the first patient support is configured to rotate about a substantially vertical axis. In some embodiments, the first patient support is coupled to components that translate the first patient support in three dimensions and rotate the first patient support about three axes. In some embodiments, the second patient support comprises a stand or base. In some embodiments, the second patient support is floor-mounted. In some embodiments, the first patient support and the second patient support are in different rooms. In some embodiments, the medical treatment system further comprises a database. In some embodiments, the medical treatment system further comprises a computer. In some embodiments, the database comprises a data structure describing a patient support configuration including several index values ​​recorded from the second patient support. In some embodiments, the database further comprises patient information for the patient, the patient information being associated with the patient support configuration. In some embodiments, the first patient support is configured according to the patient's patient support configuration. In some embodiments, the patient is identified by or associated with the patient information.In some embodiments, the first patient support comprises a seat pan, a shin rest, and a heel stop; the second patient support comprises a seat pan, a shin rest, and a heel stop. In some embodiments, the first patient support further comprises a backrest; and the second patient support further comprises a backrest. In some embodiments, the index values ​​include a backrest height index value, a backrest angle index value, a seatpan height index value, a seatpan angle index value, a shinrest distance index value, a shinrest height index value, a shinrest angle index value, a foot brace or heel stop distance index value, an armrest height index value, an armrest arm angle index value, and / or an armrest flexion portion angle index value.

[0007] Further embodiments relate to methods. For example, in some embodiments, the method includes providing a medical treatment system including a first patient support (integrated patient support) and a second patient support (non-integrated patient support); configuring the second patient support to provide a configured second patient support; recording a patient support configuration describing the configured second patient support configuration to provide a recorded patient support configuration; and configuring the first patient support according to the recorded patient support configuration. In some embodiments, the method further includes positioning a patient on the configured second patient support to provide a configured second patient support including the positioned patient. In some embodiments, the method further includes checking the configured second patient support configuration. In some embodiments, the method further includes adjusting the configured second patient support configuration. In some embodiments, recording the patient support configuration includes recording a number of index values ​​describing the configured second patient support configuration. In some embodiments, the recorded patient support configuration includes a number of index values ​​describing the configured second patient support configuration. In some embodiments, the index values ​​include a backrest height index value, a backrest angle index value, a seat pan height index value, a seat pan angle index value, a thin rest distance index value, a thin rest height index value, a thin rest angle index value, a foot brace or heel stop distance index value, an armrest height index value, an armrest arm angle index value, and / or an armrest flexion portion angle index value. In some embodiments, the method further includes positioning the patient on the first patient support and performing medical imaging and / or radiation therapy on the patient.

[0008] In some embodiments of the provided methods, the first patient support is structured to support a patient in an upright position and the second patient support is structured to support a patient in an upright position. In some embodiments, the upright position is standing, sitting, kneeling, or perched. In some embodiments, the medical imaging subsystem comprises the first patient support, an imaging source, and a detector. In some embodiments, the radiation therapy subsystem comprises the first patient support and a radiation therapy source. In some embodiments, the medical imaging and radiation therapy subsystem comprises the first patient support, an imaging source, a detector, and a radiation therapy source. In some embodiments, the radiation therapy source is a stationary source. In some embodiments, the first patient support is configured to rotate about a substantially vertical axis. In some embodiments, the first patient support is coupled to components that translate the first patient support in three dimensions and rotate the first patient support about three axes. In some embodiments, the second patient support comprises a stand or base. In some embodiments, the second patient support is floor mounted. In some embodiments, the first patient support and the second patient support are in different rooms.

[0009] In some embodiments, recording the patient support configuration includes creating a data structure in a database that describes the patient support configuration. In some embodiments, recording the patient support configuration further includes recording patient information for a patient associated with the patient support configuration. In some embodiments, the patient is identified by or associated with the patient information.

[0010] In some embodiments of the method, the first patient support comprises a seat pan, a shin rest, and a heel stop; and the second patient support comprises a seat pan, a shin rest, and a heel stop. In some embodiments, the first patient support further comprises a backrest; and the second patient support further comprises a backrest.

[0011] In some embodiments, the present technology relates to the use of a medical treatment system comprising a first patient support and a second patient support to record a patient support configuration and provide a patient support configuration for medical imaging and radiation therapy of the patient. In some embodiments, the second patient support is used to record the patient support configuration, and the recorded patient support configuration is used to configure the first patient support. Further embodiments relate to the use of a medical treatment system as described herein for medical imaging and radiation therapy of a patient. Related embodiments provide for the use of a method as described herein for medical imaging and radiation therapy of a patient.

[0012] Some portions of this description describe embodiments of the technology in terms of algorithms and symbolic representations of operations on information. These algorithmic descriptions and representations are commonly used by those skilled in the data processing arts to effectively convey the substance of their work to others skilled in the art. These operations, while described functionally, computationally, or logically, will be understood to be implemented by computer programs or equivalent electrical circuits, microcode, or the like. Further, it has proven convenient at times to refer to these arrangements of operations as modules, without loss of generality. The described operations and their associated modules may be embodied in software, firmware, hardware, or any combination thereof.

[0013] Certain steps, operations, or processes described herein may be performed or implemented in one or more hardware or software modules, alone or in combination with other devices. In some embodiments, the software modules are implemented in a computer program product that includes a computer-readable medium containing computer program code, and the computer program may be executed by a computer processor to perform any or all of the described steps, operations, or processes.

[0014] Embodiments of the present technology also relate to apparatus for performing the operations herein. The apparatus may be specially structured for the required purposes and / or may include a general-purpose computing device selectively activated or reconfigured by a computer program stored in the computer. Such computer programs may be stored on a non-transitory, tangible, computer-readable storage medium that can be coupled to a computer system bus or any type of medium suitable for storing electronic instructions. Furthermore, the computing systems referred to herein may include a single processor or may be architectures employing multiple processor designs to increase computing power.

[0015] Additional embodiments will be apparent to those skilled in the art based on the teachings contained herein.

[0016] These and other features, aspects, and advantages of the present technology will be better understood with regard to the following drawings. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0017] [Figure 1A] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a patient support. [Figure 1B] FIG. 2 is a side view of the patient support. [Figure 1C] FIG. 2 is a side view of a patient support on which a patient is positioned. [Figure 1D] FIG. 10 is a side view of a patient support showing some exemplary adjustable heights and angles of components of the patient support. [Figure 2A] 1 is a schematic diagram of a system including a non-integrated patient support and an integrated patient support used for medical imaging. [Figure 2B] 1 is a schematic diagram of a system including a non-integrated patient support and an integrated patient support used in medical radiation therapy. [Figure 2C]1 is a schematic diagram of a system including a non-integrated patient support and an integrated patient support used in medical imaging and medical radiation therapy. [Figure 2D] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of a system including a non-integrated patient support, an integrated patient support, and a database. [Figure 2E] 1 is a schematic diagram of a system including a non-integrated patient support, an integrated patient support, a power source, a computer, and a database. [Figure 3] 10 is a flowchart of a method for configuring a non-integrated patient support and recording the patient support configuration. [Figure 4] 10 is a flowchart of a method for configuring an integrated patient support according to a recorded patient support configuration. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0018] It should be understood that the figures are not necessarily drawn to scale, and that objects in the figures are not necessarily drawn to scale relative to each other. The figures are depictions intended to provide clarity and understanding of various embodiments of the devices, systems, and methods disclosed herein. Wherever possible, the same reference numbers will be used throughout the drawings to refer to the same or similar parts. It should also be understood that the drawings are not intended to limit the scope of the present teachings in any way.

[0019] Provided herein is technology relating to a separate, non-integrated patient support that is provided separately from a medical imaging or radiation therapy device. The technology also provides methods relating to and systems including the separate, non-integrated patient support. For example, in some embodiments, the separate, non-integrated patient support finds use in a method of positioning a patient for medical imaging and / or radiation therapy, the method including positioning a patient and recording the patient support configuration to provide the recorded patient support configuration for subsequent use. In some embodiments, the technology relates to a medical imaging and radiation therapy system comprising a first patient support and a second patient support, the first patient support being a separate, non-integrated patient support, the first patient support being used to record the patient support configuration, thereby providing the recorded patient support configuration; the second patient support being an integrated part of the medical imaging and / or radiation therapy system; and the recorded patient support configuration being used to configure the second patient support for medical imaging of the patient and / or for radiation therapy of the patient.

[0020] In this detailed description of various embodiments, for purposes of explanation, numerous specific details are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding of the disclosed embodiments. However, those skilled in the art will recognize that the various embodiments may be practiced without these specific details. In other instances, structures and devices are shown in block diagram form. Furthermore, those skilled in the art will readily appreciate that the specific order in which the methods are presented and performed is illustrative, and it is contemplated that the order can be changed and still remain within the spirit and scope of the various embodiments disclosed herein.

[0021] All literature and similar materials cited in this application, including but not limited to patents, patent applications, papers, books, articles, and Internet web pages, are expressly incorporated by reference in their entirety for any purpose. Unless otherwise specified, 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 belong. When definitions of terms in incorporated references appear to differ from definitions provided in the present teachings, the definitions provided in the present teachings shall control. The section headings used herein are for organizational purposes only and should not be construed in any way as limiting the subject matter described.

[0022] definition To facilitate understanding of the present technology, several terms and phrases are defined below. Additional definitions are set forth throughout the detailed description.

[0023] Throughout the specification and claims, the following terms take the meanings expressly associated therewith herein, unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. As used herein, the phrase "in one embodiment" does not necessarily refer to the same embodiment, although it may. Additionally, as used herein, the phrase "in another embodiment" does not necessarily refer to different embodiments, although it may. Thus, as described below, various embodiments of the invention can be readily combined without departing from the scope or spirit of the invention.

[0024] Also, as used herein, the term "or" is an inclusive "or" operator and is equivalent to the term "and / or" unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. The term "based on" is not exclusive and allows for based on additional unexplained factors unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Also, throughout the specification, the meanings of "a," "an," and "the" include plural references. The meaning of "in" includes "in" and "on."

[0025] As used herein, the terms "about," "approximately," "substantially," and "significantly" will be understood by those of ordinary skill in the art and will vary to some extent depending on the context in which they are used. If there are uses of these terms that are not clear to persons of ordinary skill in the art given the context in which they are used, "about" and "approximately" mean plus or minus 10% or less of the particular term, and "substantially" and "significantly" mean plus or minus more than 10% of the particular term.

[0026] As used herein, the disclosure of a range includes the disclosure of all values ​​within the entire range and further divided ranges, including the endpoints and subranges given therein. As used herein, the disclosure of a numerical range includes, to the same degree of precision, the endpoints and each intermediate number therebetween. For example, for the range 6-9, the numbers 7 and 8 are contemplated 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 expressly contemplated.

[0027] As used herein, the suffix "-free" refers to an embodiment of a technology that omits a feature of the base root of the word to which "-free" is applied. That is, the term "X-free" as used herein means "without X," where X is the technology feature omitted in the "X-free" technology. For example, a "calcium-free" composition does not contain calcium, a "mixing-free" method does not include a mixing step, etc.

[0028] As used herein, terms such as "first," "second," "third," and the like may be used to describe various steps, elements, compositions, components, regions, layers, and / or sections; however, these steps, elements, compositions, components, regions, layers, and / or sections should not be limited by these terms unless otherwise specified. These terms are used to distinguish one step, element, composition, component, region, layer, and / or section from another step, element, composition, component, region, layer, and / or section. As used herein, terms such as "first," "second," and other numerical terms do not imply an order or ranking unless clearly indicated by context. Thus, a first step, element, composition, component, region, layer, or section discussed herein could be referred to as a second step, element, composition, component, region, layer, or section without departing from the art.

[0029] As used herein, the terms "presence" or "absence" (or "present" or "absence") are used in a relative sense to describe the amount or level of a particular entity (e.g., a component, action, element). For example, when an entity is said to be "present," this means that the level or amount of the entity is above a predetermined threshold; conversely, when an entity is said to be "absent," this means that the level or amount of the entity is below a predetermined threshold. The predetermined threshold may be a detectability threshold associated with a particular test used to detect the entity, or any other threshold. When an entity is "detected," it is "present," and when an entity is "not detected," it is "absent."

[0030] As used herein, "increase" or "decrease" refers to a detectable (e.g., measured) positive or negative change in the value of a variable relative to a previously measured value, relative to a pre-established value, and / or relative to a standard control value, respectively. An increase is preferably at least a 10%, more preferably a 50%, even more preferably a 2-fold, even more preferably at least a 5-fold, and most preferably at least a 10-fold positive change relative to a previously measured value, pre-established value, and / or standard control value. Similarly, a decrease is preferably at least a 10%, more preferably a 50%, even more preferably at least an 80%, and most preferably at least a 90% negative change relative to a previously measured value, pre-established value, and / or standard control value. Other terms indicating quantitative changes or differences, such as "more" or "less," are used herein in the same manner as above.

[0031] As used herein, a "system" refers to multiple actual and / or abstract components that work together for a common purpose. In some embodiments, a "system" is an integrated collection of hardware and / or software components. In some embodiments, each component of a system interacts with and / or is related to one or more other components. In some embodiments, a system refers to a combination of components and software for controlling and directing a process. For example, a "system" or a "subsystem" may include one or more of: mechanical devices, hardware, hardware components, circuits, electrical circuits, logic designs, logic components, software, software modules, components of software or software modules, software procedures, software instructions, software routines, software objects, software functions, software classes, software programs, files containing software, and the like, or any combination thereof, for performing the functions of the system or subsystem. Thus, the methods and apparatus of the embodiments, or certain aspects or portions thereof, may take the form of program code (e.g., instructions) embodied in a tangible medium, such as a floppy disk, a CD-ROM, a hard drive, a flash memory, or any other machine-readable storage medium, which, when loaded into and executed by a machine, such as a computer, causes the machine to become an apparatus for practicing the embodiments. In the case of program code running on a programmable computer, the computing device generally 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 connection with the embodiments, for example, through the use of 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 a computer system. However, the programs can be implemented in assembly or machine language, if desired. In either case, the language may be a compiled or interpreted language, and combined with hardware implementations. In some embodiments, a "system" may consist of or be divisible into multiple smaller systems, which may be referred to as "subsystems" (e.g., first subsystem, second subsystem, ..., nth subsystem).

[0032] As used herein, the term "computed tomography," abbreviated "CT," refers to both tomographic and non-tomographic radiography. For example, the term "CT" refers to many 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 the use of an X-ray source and a detector that rotates around the patient and subsequent reconstruction of images into different planes. In the CT embodiments described herein (e.g., devices, apparatus, and methods provided for CT), the X-ray source is stationary and the patient is rotated relative to the stationary source. The X-ray current used in CT describes the flow of current from the cathode to the anode and is typically measured in milliamperes (mA).

[0033] As used herein, the term "structured to [verb]" means that the specified element or assembly has a structure that is shaped, sized, arranged, coupled, and / or configured to perform the specified verb. For example, a member "structured to move" may be movably coupled to another element and include an element that causes the member to move, or the member is otherwise configured to move in response to another element or assembly. Thus, as used herein, "structured to [verb]" recites structure, not function. Furthermore, as used herein, "structured to [verb]" means that the specified element or assembly is intended to and designed to perform the specified verb.

[0034] As used herein, the term "associated" means that elements are part of the same assembly and / or work or interact together in some way. For example, a car has four tires and four hubcaps. It is understood that all elements are joined together as part of the car, but each hubcap is "associated" with a particular tire.

[0035] As used herein, the term "coupled" refers to two or more components that are secured together by any suitable means. Thus, in some embodiments, a statement that two or more parts or components are "coupled" means that the parts are joined or operate together directly or indirectly (e.g., through one or more intermediate parts or components). As used herein, "directly coupled" means that the two elements are in direct contact with each other. As used herein, "fixedly coupled" or "fixed" or "mounted" means that the two components are coupled so that they move as a single component while maintaining a constant orientation relative to each other. Thus, when two elements are coupled, all portions of the elements are coupled. However, a statement that a particular portion of a first element is coupled to a second element (e.g., a first end of an axle is coupled to a first wheel) means that the particular portion of the first element is disposed closer to the second element than the other portions. Furthermore, an object resting on another object held in place only by gravity is not "coupled" to the object below unless the upper object is otherwise substantially maintained in place. That is, for example, a book on a table is not coupled to the table, but a book glued to the table is coupled to the table.

[0036] As used herein, the terms "removably coupled" or "temporarily coupled" mean that one component is coupled to another component in an essentially temporary manner. That is, the two components are coupled in a manner that allows for easy joining or separation of the components without damaging the components. Thus, "removably coupled" components can be easily uncoupled and recoupled without damaging the components.

[0037] As used herein, the term "operably coupled" means that several elements or assemblies, each movable between a first position and a second position or configuration, are coupled such that movement of the first element from one position / configuration to another position / configuration causes the second element to also move between positions / configurations. Note that a first element is "operably coupled" to another element, not vice versa.

[0038] As used herein, the term "rotatably coupled" refers to two or more components coupled such that at least one of the components is rotatable relative to the other component.

[0039] As used herein, the term "translatably coupled" refers to two or more components coupled such that at least one of the components is translatable relative to the other components.

[0040] As used herein, the term "temporarily disposed" means that a first element or assembly is placed on a second element or assembly such that the first element / assembly can be moved without uncoupling or otherwise manipulating the first element. For example, a book that simply rests on a table (e.g., the book is not glued or secured to the table) is "temporarily disposed" on the table.

[0041] As used herein, the term "corresponding" indicates that two structural components are sized and shaped similarly to one another and bond with minimal friction. Thus, an opening that "corresponds" to a member is sized slightly larger than the member so that the member can pass through the opening with minimal friction. This definition is modified when two components fit "closely." In that situation, the difference in size of the components is even smaller, increasing the amount of friction. If the elements defining the opening and / or the components inserted into the opening are made from deformable or compressible materials, the opening may even be slightly smaller than the components inserted into the opening. With respect to surfaces, shapes, and lines, two or more "corresponding" surfaces, shapes, or lines generally have the same size, shape, and contour.

[0042] As used herein, a "path of travel" or "path," when used in connection with a moving element, includes the space through which the element travels during movement. Thus, any element that moves inherently has a "path of travel" or "path."

[0043] As used herein, the statement that two or more parts or components "engage" one another means that the elements exert a force or bias on one another, either directly or through one or more intermediate elements or components. Additionally, when used herein with respect to a moving part, the moving part may "engage" another element while moving from one position to another and / or may "engage" another element once it is in the described position. Thus, the statements "element A engages element B when element A moves to element A's first position" and "element A engages element B when element A is in element A's first position" are understood to be equivalent statements and mean that element A engages element B when moving to element A's first position and / or that element A engages element B when element A is in element A's first position.

[0044] As used herein, the term "operably engage" means "engage and move." That is, when used with respect to a first component structured to move a second, movable or rotatable component, "operably engage" means that the first component applies a force sufficient to move the second component. For example, a screwdriver is placed in contact with a screw. When no force is applied to the screwdriver, the screwdriver is simply "coupled" to the screw. When an axial force is applied to the screwdriver, the screwdriver presses against the screw and "engages" the screw. However, when a rotational force is applied to the screwdriver, the screwdriver "operably engages" the screw and turns it. Furthermore, with respect to electronic components, "operably coupled" means that one component controls another component via a control signal or current.

[0045] As used herein, the term "number" means one or an integer greater than one (eg, multiple).

[0046] As used herein, in the phrase "[x] moves between its first and second positions," or "[y] is structured to move [x] between its first and second positions," "[x]" is the name of an element or assembly. Furthermore, when [x] is an element or assembly that moves between positions, the pronoun "the" refers to "[x]," i.e., the named element or assembly that precedes the pronoun "the."

[0047] As used herein, the "radial sides / surfaces" of a circular or cylindrical body are those sides / surfaces that extend around or surround its center or a height line passing through its center. As used herein, the "axial sides / surfaces" of a circular or cylindrical body are those sides that extend in a plane that extends generally perpendicular to a height line passing through its center. That is, generally, for a cylindrical soup can, the "radial sides / surfaces" are the generally circular sidewalls and the "axial sides / surfaces" are the top and bottom of the soup can.

[0048] As used herein, a "diagnostic" test includes detecting or identifying a disease state or condition in a subject, determining the likelihood that a subject will suffer from a given disease or condition, determining the likelihood that a subject with a disease or condition will respond to treatment, determining the prognosis (or likelihood of progression or regression) of a subject with a disease or condition, and determining the effectiveness of a treatment for a subject with a disease or condition. For example, a diagnostic can be used to detect the presence of a disease or condition or the likelihood that a subject has a disease or condition, or the likelihood that such a subject will respond favorably to a compound (e.g., an agent, e.g., a drug) or other treatment.

[0049] As used herein, the term "symptom" generally refers to an illness, disease, injury, event, or change in health status.

[0050] As used herein, the term "treating" or "treatment," with respect to a condition, refers to preventing the condition, reducing the onset or incidence of the condition, reducing the risk of developing the condition, preventing or delaying the onset of symptoms associated with the condition, alleviating or terminating symptoms associated with the condition, causing complete or partial regression of the condition, or some combination thereof. In some embodiments, "treatment" includes exposing the patient or a portion thereof (e.g., a tissue, organ, body part, or other localized region of the patient's body) to radiation (e.g., electromagnetic radiation, ionizing radiation).

[0051] 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 produced by a line source and is confined to a small solid angle. In some embodiments, the beam is collimated. In some embodiments, the beam is a generally unidirectional beam. In some embodiments, the beam is a diverging beam.

[0052] As used herein, the term "patient" or "subject" refers to a mammalian animal identified and / or selected for imaging and / or treatment with radiation. Thus, in some embodiments, the patient or subject is contacted with a beam of radiation, e.g., a primary beam produced 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 livestock animal, a domestic animal or pet, or an animal used in clinical research. In some embodiments, the subject or patient has cancer and / or is recognized to have or be at risk for cancer.

[0053] As used herein, the term "treatment volume" or "imaging volume" refers to a volume (e.g., tissue) of a patient selected for imaging and / or treatment with radiation. For example, in some embodiments, a "treatment volume" or "imaging volume" includes a tumor within a patient (e.g., a cancer patient). As used herein, the term "healthy tissue" refers to a volume (e.g., tissue) of a patient 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.

[0054] As used herein, the term "radiation source" or "ray 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, the radiation source is a linear accelerator ("linac") that produces radiation in the form of x-rays or electrons to treat a patient by contacting a treatment volume of the patient with an x-ray or electron beam. In some embodiments, the radiation source produces radiation in the form of particles (e.g., photons, electrons, neutrons, hadrons, ions (e.g., protons, carbon ions, other heavy ions)). In some embodiments, the radiation source produces radiation in the form of electromagnetic waves (e.g., x-rays and gamma rays having wavelengths ranging from about 1 pm to about 1 nm).

[0055] A "source" may produce radiation for imaging (an "imaging source") or radiation for radiation therapy (a "radiation therapy source" or "therapy source"). In typical use, imaging sources produce radiation having energies in the range of 1 to 1000 kV (e.g., a "kilovoltage source"), and radiation therapy sources produce energies in the range of 1 to 1000 MV (e.g., a "megavoltage source"). However, the technology is not limited to imaging using kilovoltage sources, nor is it limited to radiation therapy using megavoltage sources; thus, the technology includes imaging and radiation therapy modes and components known in the art for use in imaging and radiation therapy (e.g., kilovoltage (kV) or megavoltage (MV) imaging, kV or MV CT, MV and lower dose (e.g., kV) radiation therapy technologies, and other imaging and therapy technologies of any energy). It is understood that radiation can be described as having both wave-like and particle aspects, and it is sometimes convenient to refer to radiation in terms of waves and sometimes in terms of particles. Therefore, without limiting the technique, both descriptions will be used throughout, with the understanding that the laws of quantum mechanics provide that all particles or quantum entities can be described as particles or waves.

[0056] As used herein, the term "stationary source" refers to a source that does not orbit around a patient during use for imaging or therapy. In particular, a "stationary source" remains fixed with respect to an axis that passes through the patient while the patient is being imaged or treated. To generate relative motion between the stationary source and the rotating patient equivalent to the relative motion of a source orbiting around the stationary patient, the patient can rotate about said axis, but the stationary source does not move with respect to a third object, frame of reference (e.g., the treatment room in which the patient is positioned), or patient axis of rotation during imaging or treatment, while the patient rotates with respect to the third object, frame of reference (e.g., the treatment room in which the patient is positioned), or patient axis of rotation that passes through the patient during imaging or treatment. A stationary source may be mounted on a mobile platform, and as the mobile platform moves to transport the stationary source, the stationary source may move with respect to the Earth and fixed objects on the Earth. Thus, the term "stationary source" can refer to a moving "stationary source," provided that the moving "stationary source" does not orbit around an axis of rotation through the patient during imaging or treatment of the patient. Furthermore, the stationary source can translate and / or orbit around the patient to position the stationary source before imaging or treatment of the patient, or after imaging or treatment of the patient. Thus, the term "stationary source" can refer to a source that translates or orbits around the patient in non-imaging and non-treatment uses, for example, to position the source relative to the patient when the patient is not being imaged and / or treated. In some embodiments, the "stationary source" is a photon source, and is therefore referred to as a "stationary photon source."

[0057] Embodiments of the technology described herein involve translation along an axis and / or rotation about an axis. As shown in FIGS. 1A and 1B , some embodiments use a coordinate system with X, Y, and Z axes defined relative to a patient support (e.g., a non-integral patient support and / or an integrated patient support) and / or a patient. In some embodiments, a coordinate system is used in which the X and Y axes together lie in and / or define a horizontal plane, and the Z axis is a vertical axis. With respect to a patient positioned on a patient support (e.g., a patient positioning device), the X axis is the left-right, horizontal, or frontal axis; the Y axis is the anterior-posterior, dorso-ventral, or sagittal axis; and the Z axis is the sagittal or longitudinal axis. The X and Y axes together lie in and / or define a horizontal, transverse, and / or axial plane. The Y and Z axes together lie in and / or define a sagittal or longitudinal plane. The X and Z axes together lie in and / or define a frontal or coronal plane.

[0058] Thus, in some embodiments, descriptions of moving "forward" or "backward" are movements along the Y axis; descriptions of moving "left" or "right" are movements along the X axis; and descriptions of moving "up" and "down" are movements along the Z axis. Furthermore, rotations described as "roll" are rotations about the Y axis; rotations described as "pitch" are rotations about the X axis, and rotations described as "yaw" are rotations about the Z axis. Thus, in some embodiments, techniques are described as having six degrees of freedom, e.g., translation along one or more of the X, Y, and / or Z axes, and rotations about one or more of the X, Y, and / or Z axes.

[0059] As used herein, the term "integrated patient support" refers to a patient support that is an integrated component of a medical imaging system or a medical treatment (e.g., radiation therapy) system. For example, a medical imaging system typically includes a radiation source and a detector arranged around the integrated patient support such that radiation from the source passes through a patient positioned on the integrated patient support and is detected on the detector (see, e.g., feature 220 in FIG. 2A ). A radiation therapy system typically includes a radiation source arranged around the integrated patient support such that radiation from the source contacts an area of ​​the patient that is the target of radiation therapy (see, e.g., feature 230 in FIG. 2B ). Medical imaging and radiation therapy systems are often installed in radiation bunkers to minimize radiation exposure to personnel outside the treatment area. Additionally, medical imaging and radiation therapy systems often include components (e.g., hardware and software) for controlling the radiation source, acquiring data by the detector, and analyzing and displaying the data.

[0060] As used herein, the terms "non-integrated patient support" or "separate patient support" refer to a patient support that is not integrated into a medical imaging or medical treatment (e.g., radiation therapy) system (see, e.g., feature 210 in Figures 2A, 2B, and 2C). A non-integrated patient support is separate from, and therefore provided separately from, a medical imaging or medical treatment (e.g., radiation therapy) system. Typically, a non-integrated patient support is mounted on a support or stand or floor-mounted, and a non-integrated patient support may be provided in addition to an integrated patient support that is provided as an integral component of a medical imaging or medical treatment (e.g., radiation therapy) system.

[0061] As used herein, the term "patient support" can refer to an integral or non-integral patient support.

[0062] As used herein, the term "index" refers to a measurable position of a component of a patient support, e.g., the absolute position of the component in the coordinate space of the patient support (see FIGS. 1A and 1B), or the relative position of the component defined by the translation and / or rotation of the component of the patient support relative to another component of the patient support. In some embodiments, a component comprises a physical feature (e.g., a straight or angle ruler) that provides an "index" of the component and comprises a regular series of markings or other physical features (e.g., dimples, holes, detents, lines, dots, ridges, etc.), each marking or physical feature being associated with an "index value." For example, a component has a series of markings that provide an index of the component, with each marking (having an "index value") being associated with a particular configuration of the component.

[0063] As used herein, the term "index value" refers to a particular value of an index that defines a configuration of a component of a patient support. An "index" may have a range of "index values" that correspond to the range of configurations available for that component. For example, a component that can be positioned in various configurations in increments of Y units (e.g., cm) over a distance of X units (e.g., cm) will have X / Y index values, each of which defines a certain configuration (e.g., related to the linear placement or position of the component) of that component. Similarly, a component that can be positioned in various configurations in increments of Y degrees over an angular range of X degrees will have X / Y index values, each of which defines a certain configuration (e.g., related to the angular placement or position of the component) of that component.

[0064] As used herein, the term "seated position" refers to a patient in a generally upright position but with the torso angled backward relative to a vertical axis, and optionally with the knees bent as well.

[0065] patient support In some embodiments, the present technology relates to non-integral patient supports. Exemplary patient supports that find use as non-integral patient supports in the present technology are described in U.S. Patent Application No. 16 / 649,337 (published as U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2020 / 0268327) or U.S. Patent Application No. 17 / 894,335 (e.g., as a "patient support assembly" or alternatively and interchangeably as a "patient support"), each of which is expressly incorporated herein by reference. As described herein, certain embodiments relate to patient supports (e.g., integrated patient supports and / or non-integral patient supports) that support a patient in an upright or substantially upright position (e.g., standing, sitting, kneeling, perched). See, e.g., FIGS. 1A and 1B. Imaging and / or treating a patient in an upright position provides the advantage of increased patient comfort. Furthermore, imaging and / or treating a patient in an upright position offers advantages over diagnosing and / or treating a patient in a traditional horizontal position for many indications. As discussed herein, the present technology provides a non-integral patient support for determining patient position (e.g., upright position) and fixation configuration, which finds use in positioning a patient in a patient position (e.g., upright position) on the integrated patient support for imaging and / or treatment.

[0066] For example, in some embodiments, the present technology provides a non-integrated patient support such as that shown in Figures 1A and 1B. In some embodiments (e.g., system embodiments discussed further herein), the present technology relates to one or both of an integrated patient support and / or a non-integrated patient support. Thus, although aspects of the technology common to both integrated and non-integrated patient supports are discussed herein, certain embodiments of the present technology relate to non-traditional technology that provides a non-integrated patient support that is separate from a medical imaging or medical treatment (e.g., radiation therapy) device or system.

[0067] 1A and 1B, patient support (e.g., integrated patient support or non-integral patient support) 100 includes a backrest 110 for supporting or supporting the patient's back. Backrest 110 is coupled to a column or post 120 that supports backrest 110. Post 120 is mounted to a platform, base, or surface 130 (e.g., the floor). In some embodiments, patient support (e.g., integrated patient support or non-integral patient support) 100 is provided on a stand or other support (e.g., post 120 is supported by a stand or support). In some embodiments, patient support (e.g., integrated patient support or non-integral patient support) 100 is floor-mounted (e.g., post 120 is floor-mounted). In some embodiments, platform 130 is floor-mounted. In some embodiments, the patient support (e.g., an integrated patient support or a non-integral patient support) 100 includes a leveling component (e.g., a spirit level, an accelerometer) to indicate the position and / or orientation of the non-integral patient support relative to the Earth and / or gravity vector, for use in, for example, installing, aligning, and adjusting the non-integral patient support 100.

[0068] Patient support (e.g., integrated patient support or non-integral patient support) 100 further includes a seat pan 140 for supporting or resting on the rear, buttocks, or thighs of patient 900 (FIG. 1C). In some embodiments, seat pan 140 is coupled to support posts 120 in close proximity to backrest 110. In some embodiments, seat pan 140 is coupled to backrest 110.

[0069] In some embodiments, seat pan height 841, seat pan angle 842, thin rest height 851, thin rest angle 852, thin rest distance 831, and / or heel stop distance 861 are adjustable (see FIG. 1D ). In some embodiments, backrest 110 and seat pan 140 are rotatably coupled to support posts 120 to adjust the angle of backrest 110 and / or seat pan 140 relative to support posts 120 and / or each other. In some embodiments, seat pan 140 is rotatably coupled to backrest 110 to adjust the angle of rear seat pan 140 relative to backrest 110.

[0070] Further, in embodiments, the vertical height of the support post 120 is adjustable to adjust the vertical height of the backrest 110 and seat pan 140. Accordingly, in some embodiments, the support post 120 is translatably coupled to a platform, base, stand, support, or surface 130 (e.g., a floor). In some embodiments, the seat pan 140 and / or backrest 110 are translatably coupled to the support post 120 to adjust the height of the seat pan 140 and / or backrest 110 relative to the support post. In some embodiments, the seat pan 140 and / or backrest 110 are rotatably coupled to the support post 120 to adjust the angle of the seat pan 140 and / or backrest 110.

[0071] In some embodiments, the patient support 100 further comprises a thinrest 150 for supporting or resting on the shins of the patient 900 (e.g., the front of the patient's legs (e.g., between the knees and ankles of the patient 900)). The thinrest 150 is coupled to the platform 130 in front of the backrest 110 and the seat pan 140. The thinrest 150 is offset from the backrest 110 so that the thinrest 150 faces the patient's shins when the patient 900 positions her back against the backrest 110. See FIG. 1C.

[0072] In some embodiments, the thinrest 150 is removably coupled to the platform 130 forward of the backrest 110 and the seat pan 140. For example, in some embodiments, the platform 130 includes a plurality of holes 131 for receiving appropriate mating members on the base of the thinrest 150. The holes 131 are provided at several horizontal offsets relative to the backrest 110 so that the horizontal distance between the backrest 110 and the thinrest 150 can be adjusted to provide a desired distance between the backrest 110 and the thinrest 150 by placing the thinrest 150 in the appropriate holes 131.

[0073] In some embodiments, other configurations or mechanisms are provided for adjusting the horizontal distance between the thinrest 150 and the backrest 110. For example, in some embodiments, the thinrest 150 is translatably coupled to the platform 130. In some embodiments, the platform 130 includes rails, and the thinrest 150 is translatably coupled to the rails. That is, in some embodiments, the platform 130 includes rails along which the thinrest 150 is moved (e.g., translated) and a corresponding locking configuration for securing the thinrest 150 in a desired location. In another exemplary embodiment, the patient support (e.g., an integrated patient support or a non-integrated patient support) includes a powered backrest (e.g., the backrest 110 operably engaged with a backrest motor) and / or a powered thinrest (e.g., the thinrest 150 operably engaged with a thinrest motor), for example, as described later herein.

[0074] The backrest 110, seat pan 140, and shin rest 150 comprise substantially flat surfaces. In some embodiments, the backrest 110, seat pan 140, and shin rest 150 further comprise padding that can accommodate respective areas of the body of the patient 900. FIG. 1C.

[0075] In some embodiments, the patient support 100 further includes a pair of foot braces or heel stops 160 for securing the patient 900. See, for example, FIG. 1C . In some embodiments, the foot braces are coupled to the platform 130 between the backrest 110 and the thin rest 150. The foot braces may include straps, clasps, or other arcuate pieces configured to fasten over the top of the patient's feet to secure the patient's feet to the platform 130. In some embodiments, the foot braces are coupled to the platform 130. In some embodiments, the foot braces are removably coupled to the platform 130. In some embodiments, the foot braces are translatably coupled to the platform 130. In some embodiments, the foot braces are adjustable by translating the foot braces. In some embodiments, the foot braces are translatably coupled to the platform 130 and may be locked in place. In some embodiments, the platform 130 includes a plurality of holes for receiving appropriate fittings of the foot braces. The holes are provided at several horizontal offsets relative to the backrest 110 so that the horizontal distance between the backrest 110 and the foot brace can be adjusted to provide a desired distance between the backrest 110 and the foot brace by placing the foot brace in the appropriate hole. In some embodiments, the foot brace or heel stop 160 can be adjusted to be in a position that facilitates ingress and egress of the patient 900 from the non-integral patient support, for example, by positioning the foot brace under the seat pan 140. In some embodiments, the patient support (e.g., integrated patient support or non-integral patient support) 100 includes a powered foot brace (e.g., a foot brace operably engaged with a foot brace motor).

[0076] In some embodiments, components other than a foot brace are provided to immobilize and / or stabilize the patient 900, such as a foot-shaped recess, an elevated foot stop, or a heel stop 160. For example, in an exemplary embodiment, the patient support assembly 100 includes a heel stop 160 coupled to the platform 130. In some embodiments, the heel stop 160 is removably coupled to the platform 130. In some embodiments, the heel stop 160 is translatably coupled to the platform 130. In some embodiments, the heel stop 160 includes a padded member for receiving the heel of the patient 900. In some embodiments, the heel stop 160 is adjustable by translating the heel stop 160. In some embodiments, the heel stop 160 is translatably coupled to the platform 130 and can be locked in place. In some embodiments, the platform 130 includes a plurality of holes for receiving appropriate mating members of the heel stop 160. The holes are provided at several horizontal offsets relative to the backrest 110 so that the horizontal distance between the backrest 110 and the heel stop 160 can be adjusted to provide a desired distance between the backrest 110 and the heel stop 160 by placing the heel stop 160 in the appropriate hole. In some embodiments, the heel stop 160 can be adjusted to be in a position that facilitates patient ingress and egress from a non-integral patient support, for example, by positioning the heel stop 160 below the seat pan 140. In some embodiments, the patient support (e.g., an integrated patient support or a non-integral patient support) includes a powered heel stop (e.g., a heel stop 160 operably engaged with a heel stop motor).

[0077] In some embodiments, patient support 100 (e.g., integrated or non-integrated) further includes armrests or arm supports 170 for supporting the patient's arms. Armrests 170 are coupled to backrest 110 on the left and right sides of backrest 110 to receive the patient's left and right arms, respectively. In some embodiments, armrests 170 are translatably coupled to backrest 110. Thus, the vertical heights of the armrests and their locations relative to backrest 110 can be adjusted (e.g., by translation) to accommodate patients of different sizes and different patient postures. Each armrest 170 includes a bent portion 171 for receiving the portion of the patient's upper arm extending between the shoulder and elbow. To orient bent portion 171 to fit the patient's body dimensions, bent portion 171 is rotatably coupled to an arm 172 coupled to backrest 110. In some embodiments, armrests 170 support the patient's arms in predetermined positions, such as an overhead position or a downward-facing lateral position such that the arms are positioned on the patient's left and right sides, respectively. In some embodiments, the patient support (e.g., an integrated patient support or a non-integrated patient support) includes a powered armrest (e.g., armrest 170 operably engaged with an armrest motor).

[0078] As described herein, in some embodiments, the present technology provides a patient support (e.g., an integrated or non-integral patient support) 100 that is configurable to support a patient in a position appropriate for medical imaging and / or treatment (e.g., radiation therapy). In some embodiments, the configurable patient support (e.g., an integrated or non-integral patient support) 100 comprises one or more configurable and movable components, such as a backrest 110 (e.g., a configurable and movable backrest), armrests 170 (e.g., a configurable and movable armrest), a seat pan 140 (e.g., a configurable and movable seat pan), a thin rest 150 (e.g., a configurable and movable thin rest), and / or a foot brace (e.g., a configurable and movable foot brace) or a heel stop 160 (e.g., a configurable and movable heel stop). In some embodiments, the patient support (e.g., an integrated or non-integral patient support) further comprises a head rest (e.g., a configurable and movable head rest).

[0079] Patient support (e.g., integrated or non-integral patient support) 100 includes components (e.g., backrest 110, armrests 170, seat pan 140, shinrest 150, foot brace or heel stop 160, and headrest) that can each be positioned in several positions to provide the patient support (e.g., integrated or non-integral patient support) in a particular configuration. In some embodiments, each component (e.g., backrest 110, armrest 170, seat pan 140, shinrest 150, foot brace or heel stop 160, and headrest) is operable by a human user to place the component in the appropriate position for the desired configuration of the non-integral patient support. Thus, in embodiments, each component (e.g., backrest 110, armrest 170, seat pan 140, thin rest 150, foot brace or heel stop 160, and headrest) may be moved (e.g., translated and / or rotated) by a human applying a force to the component using her / his hands that does not exceed the typical force exerted by an average human. In embodiments, each component (e.g., backrest 110, armrest 170, seat pan 140, thin rest 150, foot brace or heel stop 160, and headrest) may be locked in position (e.g., each component (e.g., backrest 110, armrest 170, seat pan 140, thin rest 150, foot brace or heel stop 160, and headrest) may be placed in a locked state), thereby achieving a static configuration of the patient support (e.g., integrated patient support or non-integrated patient support) that stably supports a human in a position appropriate for imaging and / or treatment.Each component (e.g., backrest 110, armrest 170, seat pan 140, shinrest 150, foot brace or heel stop 160, and headrest) may be unlocked (e.g., each component (e.g., backrest 110, armrest 170, seat pan 140, shinrest 150, foot brace or heel stop 160, and headrest) may be placed in an unlocked state) so that one or more of the components may be moved to different positions to thereby achieve different configurations of the patient support (e.g., integrated patient support or non-integrated patient support).

[0080] Each position of each component in a particular configuration of a patient support (e.g., an integrated patient support or a non-integral patient support) may be described as having one or more of the following: a spatial position relative to the coordinate system of the patient support (e.g., an integrated patient support or a non-integral patient support) (see Figures 1A and 1B); a spatial position relative to one or more other components; a rotation (e.g., roll, pitch, or yaw) about the X, Y, and / or Z axes relative to the coordinate system of the patient support (e.g., an integrated patient support or a non-integral patient support) (see Figures 1A and 1B); and / or an angle ("tilt" or "inclination") relative to one or more other components.

[0081] Thus, in an embodiment, each component (e.g., backrest 110, armrest 170, seat pan 140, thin rest 150, foot brace or heel stop 160, and headrest) may be translated in increments of 1 cm to 5 cm in space (e.g., 1.0, 1.1, 1.2, 1.3, 1.4, 1.5, 1.6, 1.7, 1.8, 1.9, 2.0, 2.1, 2.2, 2.3, 2.4, 2.5, 2.6, 2.7, 2.8, 2.9, 3.0, 3.1, 3.2, 3.3, 3.4, 3.5, 3.6, 3.7, 3.8, 3.9, 4.0, 4.1, 4.2, 4.3, 4.4, 4.5, 4.6, 4.7, 4.8, 4.9, 5.0, 5.1, 5.2, 5.3, 5.4, 5.5, 5.6, 5.7, 5.8, 5.9, 6.10, 6.11, 6.12, 6.13, 6.14, 6.15, 6.16, 6.17, 6.18, 6.19, 7.20, 7.21, 7.22, 7.23, 7.24, 7.25, 7.26, 7.27, 7.28, 7.29, 8.30, 8.31, 8.32, 8.33, 8.34, 8.35, 8.36, 8.37, 8.38, 8.39, The axial alignment may be placed in several configurations that differ by a translation of 0.5, 4.6, 4.7, 4.8, 4.9, or 5.0 cm and / or a rotation of 1 to 5 degrees about the axis (e.g., a rotation of 1.0, 1.1, 1.2, 1.3, 1.4, 1.5, 1.6, 1.7, 1.8, 1.9, 2.0, 2.1, 2.2, 2.3, 2.4, 2.5, 2.6, 2.7, 2.8, 2.9, 3.0, 3.1, 3.2, 3.3, 3.4, 3.5, 3.6, 3.7, 3.8, 3.9, 4.0, 4.1, 4.2, 4.3, 4.4, 4.5, 4.6, 4.7, 4.8, 4.9, or 5.0 degrees about the axis). Each of these configurations has an associated index value that unambiguously describes the position of the component; thus, some index values ​​define a configuration of the patient support (e.g., an integrated patient support or a non-integrated patient support).

[0082] In particular, backrest 110 may be configured to have a height (e.g., above the floor and / or above platform or base 130) selected from a plurality of heights varying in 1 to 5 cm increments over a range of 1 to 300 cm, e.g., to accommodate patients of various sitting or standing heights. Backrest 110 may be configured to be positioned (e.g., by rotation about the X axis) relative to a vertical Z-axis (e.g., integrated or non-integral patient support) 100 at an angle selected from a plurality of angles varying in approximately 1 to 5 degree increments over a range of approximately 1 to 50 degrees, e.g., tilted forward or backward at an angle of 0 to ±25° (e.g., approximately ±5°, ±10°, ±15°, ±20°, or ±25°) relative to the vertical Z-axis.

[0083] Further, seat pan 140 may be configured to have a height (e.g., above the floor and / or above platform or base 130) selected from a plurality of heights varying in 1 to 5 cm increments over a range of 1 to 300 cm, e.g., to accommodate patients of various sitting or standing heights. Additionally, seat pan 140 may be configured to be positioned (e.g., by rotation about the X axis) relative to a horizontal Y-axis (see FIGS. 1A and 1B) of a patient support (e.g., an integrated patient support or a non-integral patient support) at an angle selected from a plurality of angles varying in approximately 1 degree increments over a range of approximately 1 degree to 40 degrees, e.g., tilted upward or downward at an angle of 0 to ±20° (e.g., approximately ±5°, ±10°, ±15°, or ±20°) relative to the horizontal Y-axis.

[0084] Thin rest 150 may be configured to have a distance from backrest 100 and / or support 120 selected from a plurality of distances varying in 1 to 5 cm increments over a range of 1 to 50 cm, for example, to accommodate patients with a variety of upper leg lengths. Thin rest 150 may also be configured to have a height (e.g., above the floor and / or above platform or base 130) selected from a plurality of heights varying in 1 to 5 cm increments over a range of 1 to 50 cm, for example, to accommodate patients with a variety of lower leg lengths. The thin rest 150 can be configured to be positioned (e.g., by rotation about the X axis) relative to a vertical Z axis (see FIGS. 1A and 1B) of the patient support (e.g., integrated or non-integral patient support) 100 at an angle selected from a plurality of angles that vary in increments of about 1 to 5 degrees over a range of about 1 to 30 degrees, e.g., tilted at an angle of 0 to 30 degrees (e.g., about 5, 10, 15, 20, 25, or 30 degrees) relative to the vertical Z axis. Furthermore, in some embodiments, the thin rest 150 comprises two separate thin rest components (e.g., a left thin component and a right thin component), each of which can be translated along the X axis over a range of about 1 to 20 cm (e.g., about 5, 10, 15, or 20 cm) to accommodate patients with various distances between their legs and / or shins.

[0085] The foot brace or heel stop 160 may be configured to have a distance from the backrest 100 and / or support 120 selected from a plurality of distances varying in increments of 1 to 5 cm over a range of 1 to 50 cm, for example, to accommodate patients with various leg lengths.

[0086] Each of the armrests 170 may be configured to have a height (e.g., above the floor and / or above the platform or base 130) selected from a plurality of heights that vary in 1 to 5 cm increments over a range of 1 to 150 cm, for example, to accommodate patients of various sitting or standing heights, to accommodate patients with various arm lengths, and to maximize the number of independent configurations per armrest 170. Each arm 59 of each armrest 170 and each bending portion 172 of each armrest is independently rotatable 180° about each of the X, Y, and Z axes to maximize the number of independent configurations of each armrest 170.

[0087] The headrest may be configured to have a height (e.g., above the floor and / or above the platform or base 130) selected from a plurality of heights varying in increments of 1 to 5 cm over a range of 1 to 50 cm, for example, to accommodate patients of various sitting or standing heights.

[0088] In embodiments, each position of each component may be defined by an index associated with the component and a value of the index (an "index value") that unambiguously describes the position of the component. In this manner, using a set of index values, the configuration of a patient support (e.g., an integrated patient support or a non-integrated patient support) may be unambiguously described and defined.

[0089] Thus, in some embodiments, the patient support (e.g., integrated or non-integral patient support) 100 includes markings and / or includes components (e.g., backrest 110, armrests 170, seat pan 140, shin rest 150, foot brace or heel stop 160, and headrest) that include markings associated with the position and configuration of each of the components of the patient support (e.g., integrated or non-integral patient support). The markings can be used to observe and / or record index values ​​that clearly describe and define the position of each component.

[0090] In some embodiments, each component (e.g., backrest 110, armrest 170, seat pan 140, thin rest 150, foot brace or heel stop 160, and headrest) includes a sensor that outputs a signal describing a component index value that describes the component's position. In some embodiments, a switch is associated with each indexed position of each component, and the "on" or "off" state of each switch indicates the component's position and thus the component's position index value. Thus, in some embodiments, each component index value is encoded in an electronic (e.g., analog or digital) signal. In some embodiments, component identification information (e.g., component name) and / or some component index values ​​are provided on a display for a user to view, and in some embodiments, for a user to record. In some embodiments, component identification information (e.g., component name) and / or some component index values ​​are provided on some dials, light-emitting diode (LED) displays, liquid crystal displays (LCDs), or other visual representations that can be viewed by a user.

[0091] In some embodiments, the index value is recorded on a tangible storage medium (e.g., random access memory, a hard drive, flash memory, or any other machine-readable storage medium). In some embodiments, the index value is recorded in a database stored on the tangible storage medium. In some embodiments, the index value is associated with an identifier for a particular patient, such that the index value defines a configuration of the patient support appropriate for imaging and / or treating that patient. In some embodiments, the index value is associated with demographic information (e.g., patient height, weight, biological sex, race or ancestry, body type), such that the index value defines a configuration of the patient support appropriate for imaging and / or treating a member of a demographic group. In embodiments, the index value can be recalled from the tangible storage medium for use in configuring the patient support for imaging and / or treating the patient.

[0092] Accordingly, embodiments relate to a data structure in which the index values ​​include one or more of a backrest height index value, a backrest angle index value, a seat pan height index value, a seat pan angle index value, a thin rest distance index value, a thin rest height index value, a thin rest angle index value, a foot brace or heel stop distance index value, an armrest height index value, an armrest arm angle index value, and / or an armrest flexion portion angle index value. In some embodiments, the data structure further includes patient information (e.g., a unique patient identifier, a patient's first name, a patient's last name, a patient's medical condition, demographic information (e.g., a patient's height, weight, biological sex, race or ancestry, body type, etc.), etc.). In some embodiments, the data structure further includes patient class demographic information (e.g., a patient's height, weight, biological sex, race or ancestry, body type, etc.).

[0093] In some embodiments, index values ​​associated with demographic classes provide preset configurations for the patient support, for example, to provide a starting point configuration that is modified for a particular patient to provide a specific configuration for that patient. Thus, index values ​​associated with demographic groups improve the efficiency of configuring the patient support by reducing the time associated with adjusting each component for a particular patient and patient position appropriate for the patient's imaging and / or treatment.

[0094] electric patient support In some embodiments, one or more configurable, movable components of the patient support (e.g., integrated patient support or non-integrated patient support) 100 include one or more powered components, such as a powered backrest (e.g., backrest 110 operably engaged with a backrest motor), a powered headrest (e.g., headrest operably engaged with a headrest motor), a powered armrest (e.g., armrest 170 operably engaged with an armrest motor), a powered seat pan (e.g., seat pan 140 operably engaged with a seat pan motor), a powered thinrest (e.g., thinrest 150 operably engaged with a thinrest motor), and / or a powered foot brace (e.g., foot brace operably engaged with a foot brace motor). In some embodiments, the powered foot brace is a powered heel stop (e.g., heel stop 160 operably engaged with a heel stop motor).

[0095] In some embodiments, the backrest motor is structured to move (e.g., translate and / or rotate) the backrest 110, the headrest motor is structured to move (e.g., translate and / or rotate) the headrest, the armrest motor is structured to move (e.g., translate and / or rotate) the armrest 170, the seat pan motor is structured to move (e.g., translate and / or rotate) the seam member 140, the thinrest motor is structured to move (e.g., translate and / or rotate) the thinrest 150, and / or the foot brace motor or heel stop motor is structured to move (e.g., translate and / or rotate) the foot brace or heel stop.

[0096] In some embodiments, the technology provides components (e.g., computers, microcontrollers, and / or microprocessors) configured to adjust the control and / or movement of one or more powered components, e.g., a powered backrest, a powered headrest, a powered armrest, a powered seat pan, a powered shinrest, and / or a powered foot brace or a powered heel stop, to provide patient support (e.g., an integrated patient support or a non-integrated patient support) in one or more specific configurations including the powered backrest, the powered headrest, the powered armrest, the powered seat pan, the powered shinrest, and / or the powered foot brace or a powered heel stop in specified positions.

[0097] In some embodiments, a component (e.g., a computer, microcontroller, and / or microprocessor) configured to regulate the control and / or movement of powered components (e.g., a powered backrest, a powered headrest, a powered armrest, a powered seat pan, a powered shinrest, and / or a powered foot brace or heel stop) to provide the patient support (e.g., an integrated patient support or a non-integrated patient support) 100 in one or more particular configurations is configured to actuate and / or control the backrest motor, the headrest motor, the armrest motor, the seat pan motor, the shinrest motor, and / or the foot brace motor or the heel stop motor. In some embodiments, activating one or more of the powered components (e.g., a powered seat back, a powered headrest, a powered armrest, a powered seat pan, a powered shin rest, and / or a powered foot brace or a powered heel stop) includes setting one or more of the powered components to an "on" state (e.g., by providing current and / or voltage to one or more powered components (e.g., to a motor operably coupled to the powered component)) or to an "off" state (e.g., by removing current and / or voltage to one or more powered components (e.g., to a motor operably coupled to the powered component)). In some embodiments, actuating one or more of the powered components (e.g., a powered seat back, a powered headrest, a powered armrest, a powered seat pan, a powered shin rest, and / or a powered foot brace or a powered heel stop) includes controlling the linear and / or rotational velocity; and / or controlling the linear and / or rotational acceleration of the one or more powered components (e.g., by controlling the linear and / or rotational velocity and / or by controlling the linear and / or rotational acceleration of a motor operably coupled to the powered component).

[0098] In some embodiments, the technology includes software (e.g., a software object) that includes instructions for a designated position and / or designated movement (e.g., coordinated movement) of one or more powered components, e.g., a powered backrest, a powered headrest, a powered armrest, a powered seat pan, a powered shinrest, and / or a powered foot brace or powered heel stop; and associated computer memory for storing the software and / or for storing data describing one or more positions of the configurable patient support and / or one or more positions of the powered components of the configurable patient support. In some embodiments, methods for moving one or more of the powered components are provided as object methods.

[0099] In some embodiments, the data and / or data structures describing the one or more positions and / or one or more specified movements of the powered components are provided as object data structures. Some embodiments provide an object-oriented pipeline for moving one or more of the powered components, for example, comprising one or more software objects for moving one or more of the powered components.

[0100] In some embodiments, the position of the patient support (e.g., integrated or non-integrated patient support) 100 and / or the positions of the motorized components of the configurable patient support are specific to an individual patient; specific to an individual imaging and / or treatment plan; and / or specific to an individual imaging and / or treatment plan for an individual patient. In some embodiments, the data and / or data structures describing the positions of the motorized components of the configurable patient support are provided as object data structures.

[0101] As described above, in embodiments, each position of each component may be defined by an index associated with the component and a value of the index (“index value”) that unambiguously describes the position of the component. Thus, a set of index values ​​may be used to unambiguously describe and define a configuration of a patient support (e.g., an integrated patient support or a non-integrated patient support), and accordingly, this set of index values ​​may be provided as input to software that provides instructions to a microprocessor and motors to position the components of the patient support (e.g., an integrated patient support or a non-integrated patient support) 100 (e.g., a powered backrest, powered armrests, powered seat pan, powered shin rest, powered foot brace or heel stop, and / or powered headrest) to provide the defined configuration of the patient support (e.g., an integrated patient support or a non-integrated patient support) 100.

[0102] In some embodiments, each component (e.g., a power backrest, a power armrest, a power seat pan, a power shin rest, a power foot brace or heel stop, and / or a power headrest) includes a sensor that outputs a signal describing the component, a component index, and / or a component index value that describes the component's position. In some embodiments, a switch is associated with each indexed position of each component, and the "on" or "off" state of each switch indicates the position of each component and thus the component's position index value. Thus, in some embodiments, each component's index value is encoded in an electronic (e.g., analog or digital) signal. In some embodiments, component identification information (e.g., component name) and / or some component index values ​​are provided on a display for a user to view, and in some embodiments, for a user to record. In some embodiments, component identification information (e.g., component name) and / or some component index values ​​are provided on some dials, light-emitting diode (LED) displays, liquid crystal displays (LCDs), or other visual representations that can be viewed by a user.

[0103] In some embodiments, the index value is recorded on a tangible storage medium (e.g., random access memory, a hard drive, flash memory, or any other machine-readable storage medium). In some embodiments, the index value is recorded in a database stored on the tangible storage medium. In some embodiments, the index value is associated with an identifier for a particular patient, such that the index value defines a configuration of the patient support appropriate for imaging and / or treating that patient. In some embodiments, the index value is associated with demographic information (e.g., height, weight, biological sex, race or ancestry, body type), such that the index value defines a configuration of the patient support appropriate for imaging and / or treating a member of a demographic group. In embodiments, the index value can be recalled from the tangible storage medium for use in configuring the patient support for imaging and / or treating the patient.

[0104] Accordingly, embodiments relate to a data structure in which the index values ​​include one or more of a backrest height index value, a backrest angle index value, a seat pan height index value, a seat pan angle index value, a thin rest distance index value, a thin rest height index value, a thin rest angle index value, a foot brace or heel stop distance index value, an armrest height index value, an armrest arm angle index value, and / or an armrest flexion portion angle index value. In some embodiments, the data structure further includes patient information (e.g., a unique patient identifier, a patient's first name, a patient's last name, a patient's medical condition, demographic information (e.g., a patient's height, weight, biological sex, race or ancestry, body type, etc.), etc.). In some embodiments, the data structure further includes patient class demographic information (e.g., height, weight, biological sex, race or ancestry, body type).

[0105] In some embodiments, index values ​​associated with demographic classes provide preset configurations for the patient support, for example, to provide a starting point configuration that is modified for a particular patient to provide a specific configuration for that patient. Thus, index values ​​associated with demographic groups improve the efficiency of configuring the patient support by reducing the time associated with adjusting each component for a particular patient and patient position appropriate for the patient's imaging and / or treatment.

[0106] system In some embodiments, the present technology provides a system comprising a non-integrated patient support and an integrated patient support, for example, as shown in Figures 2A, 2B, and 2C. As shown in Figures 2A, 2B, and 2C, an embodiment of a system 200 comprises a non-integrated patient support 210 and an integrated patient support 221, 231, or 241. In some embodiments, the system 200 comprises a non-integrated patient support 210 and a medical imaging subsystem 220, where the medical imaging subsystem 220 comprises a radiation source 222, a detector 223, and the integrated patient support 221 (Figure 2A). In some embodiments, the system 200 comprises a non-integrated patient support 210 and a radiation therapy subsystem 230, where the radiation therapy subsystem 230 comprises a radiation source 232 and the integrated patient support 231 (Figure 2B). In some embodiments, system 200 comprises a non-integrated patient support 210 and a medical imaging and radiation therapy subsystem 240 comprising a first (e.g., imaging) source 242 and detector 243 for medical imaging, a second (e.g., treatment) source 244 for radiation therapy, and an integrated patient support 241 used for both medical imaging and radiation therapy (FIG. 2C).

[0107] In some embodiments, system 200 includes non-integrated patient support 210, integrated patient support 221, and database 250 (see, e.g., FIG. 2D). In some embodiments, database 250 is stored on a tangible storage medium. In some embodiments, database 250 is stored locally on a tangible storage medium or in the cloud. In some embodiments, database 250 is stored as written records.

[0108] In some embodiments, system 200 comprises a non-integrated patient support 210, an integrated patient support 221, a database 250, a wireless and / or wired communication medium for communicating data between non-integrated patient support 210 and database 250, and a wireless and / or wired communication medium for communicating data between integrated patient support 210 and database 250 (FIG. 2E).

[0109] Although embodiments comprising a database 250 (and optionally a power source 260 and / or a computer (e.g., microprocessor) 270) and an integrated patient support 221 are discussed herein and are shown in Figures 2D and 2E, the technology includes similar embodiments relating to systems comprising a non-integrated patient support, an integrated patient support 231 provided as a component of a radiation therapy subsystem 230 (Figure 2B), and a database (and optionally a power source and / or a computer (e.g., microprocessor)); and to systems comprising a non-integrated patient support, an integrated patient support 241 provided as a component of a medical imaging and radiation therapy subsystem 240 (Figure 2C), and a database (and optionally a power source and / or a computer (e.g., microprocessor)). Thus, descriptions of embodiments that include a database (and, optionally, a power source and / or computer (e.g., a microprocessor) as further described below) that reference integrated patient support 221 are intended to refer to integrated patient support 221, 231, or 241 as discussed herein.

[0110] In some embodiments, database 250 includes information describing the configuration of a patient support (e.g., non-integrated patient support 210 and / or integrated patient support 221). In some embodiments, the information describing the configuration of the patient support is recorded after configuring the non-integrated patient support 210 and positioning the patient on the non-integrated patient support 210 in an appropriate position for imaging and / or treatment. In some embodiments, database 250 includes data describing a patient (e.g., a unique patient identifier, the patient's first name, the patient's last name, the patient's medical condition, demographic information (e.g., height, weight, biological sex, race or ancestry, body type, etc.), etc.), which data is associated with a particular configuration to be used for the patient, and includes data describing one or more of a backrest height index value, a backrest angle index value, a seat pan height index value, a seat pan angle index value, a thin rest distance index value, a thin rest height index value, a thin rest angle index value, a foot brace or heel stop distance index value, an armrest height index value, an armrest arm angle index value, and / or an armrest flexion portion angle index value. In some embodiments, the database 250 is described by one or more of a backrest height index value, a backrest angle index value, a seat pan height index value, a seat pan angle index value, a thin rest distance index value, a thin rest height index value, a thin rest angle index value, a foot brace or heel stop distance index value, an armrest height index value, an armrest arm angle index value, and / or an armrest flexion portion angle index value.

[0111] In some embodiments, database 250 includes data describing a patient class, for example, data describing demographic information (e.g., height, weight, biological sex, race or ancestry, body type) of the patient class associated with a particular configuration used with the patient class and described by one or more of a backrest height index value, a backrest angle index value, a seat pan height index value, a seat pan angle index value, a thin rest distance index value, a thin rest height index value, a thin rest angle index value, a foot brace or heel stop distance index value, an armrest height index value, an armrest arm angle index value, and / or an armrest flexion portion angle index value.

[0112] In some embodiments, data stored in database 250 (e.g., one or more of a backrest height index value, a backrest angle index value, a seat pan height index value, a seat pan angle index value, a thin rest distance index value, a thin rest height index value, a thin rest angle index value, a foot brace or heel stop distance index value, an armrest height index value, an armrest arm angle index value, and / or an armrest flexion portion angle index value) is used to configure integrated patient support 221 using one or more of the backrest height index value, the backrest angle index value, the seat pan height index value, the seat pan angle index value, a thin rest distance index value, a thin rest height index value, a thin rest angle index value, a foot brace or heel stop distance index value, an armrest height index value, an armrest arm angle index value, and / or an armrest flexion portion angle index value.

[0113] In some embodiments, the patient support configuration data stored in database 250 (e.g., one or more of a backrest height index value, a backrest angle index value, a seat pan height index value, a seat pan angle index value, a thin rest distance index value, a thin rest height index value, a thin rest angle index value, a foot brace or heel stop distance index value, an armrest height index value, an armrest arm angle index value, and / or an armrest flexion portion angle index value) is associated with the patient support configuration data and stored in database 250, such as patient data (e.g., a unique patient identifier, a patient's first name, a patient's For a patient identified by last name, the patient's medical condition, demographic information (e.g., height, weight, biological sex, race or ancestry, body type, etc.), one or more of a backrest height index value, a backrest angle index value, a seat pan height index value, a seat pan angle index value, a thin rest distance index value, a thin rest height index value, a thin rest angle index value, a foot brace or heel stop distance index value, an armrest height index value, an armrest arm angle index value, and / or an armrest flexion portion angle index value are used to configure the integrated patient support 221.

[0114] In some embodiments, the patient support configuration data stored in database 250 (one or more of a back height index value, a back angle index value, a seat pan height index value, a seat pan angle index value, a thin rest distance index value, a thin rest height index value, a thin rest angle index value, a foot brace or heel stop distance index value, an armrest height index value, an armrest arm angle index value, and / or an armrest flexion angle index value) is used to configure the integrated patient support 221 using one or more of the back height index value, the back angle index value, the seat pan height index value, the seat pan angle index value, the thin rest distance index value, the thin rest height index value, the thin rest angle index value, the foot brace or heel stop distance index value, the armrest height index value, the armrest arm angle index value, and / or the armrest flexion angle index value) for a patient class identified by the patient class data (e.g., height, weight, biological sex, race or ancestry, body type) associated with the patient support configuration data and stored in database 250.

[0115] In some embodiments, the system comprises a powered patient support as described herein, e.g., a patient support (e.g., an integrated patient support and / or a non-integrated patient support) comprising one or more powered components, e.g., a powered backrest (e.g., a backrest operably engaged with a backrest motor), a powered headrest (e.g., a headrest operably engaged with a headrest motor), a powered armrest (e.g., an armrest operably engaged with an armrest motor), a powered seat pan (e.g., a seat pan operably engaged with a seat pan motor), a powered thinrest (e.g., a thinrest operably engaged with a thinrest motor), and / or a powered foot brace (e.g., a foot brace operably engaged with a foot brace motor) or a powered heel stop (e.g., a heel stop operably engaged with a heel stop motor).

[0116] In some embodiments, the system comprises a powered patient support as described herein, e.g., a patient support (e.g., an integrated patient support and / or a non-integrated patient support) comprising one or more powered components, e.g., a powered backrest (e.g., a backrest operably engaged with a backrest motor), a powered headrest (e.g., a headrest operably engaged with a headrest motor), a powered armrest (e.g., an armrest operably engaged with an armrest motor), a powered seat pan (e.g., a seat pan operably engaged with a seat pan motor), a powered thinrest (e.g., a thinrest operably engaged with a thinrest motor), and / or a powered foot brace (e.g., a foot brace operably engaged with a foot brace motor) or a powered heel stop (e.g., a heel stop operably engaged with a heel stop motor); and a power source structured to provide power to one or more of the backrest motor, headrest motor, armrest motor, seat pan motor, thinrest motor, and / or foot brace motor or heel stop motor.

[0117] In some embodiments, as shown, for example, in FIG. 2E , system 200 includes a powered non-integrated patient support 210 (e.g., a non-integrated patient support including one or more powered components, e.g., a powered backrest (e.g., a backrest operably engaged with a backrest motor), a powered headrest (e.g., a headrest operably engaged with a headrest motor), a powered armrest (e.g., an armrest operably engaged with an armrest motor), a powered seat pan (e.g., a seat pan operably engaged with a seat pan motor), a powered thinrest (e.g., a thinrest operably engaged with a thinrest motor), and / or a powered foot brace (e.g., a foot brace operably engaged with a foot brace motor) or a powered heel stop (e.g., a heel stop operably engaged with a heel stop motor)); and a powered integrated patient support 221 (e.g., a non-integrated patient support including one or more powered components, e.g., a powered backrest (e.g., a backrest operably engaged with a backrest motor), a powered headrest (e.g., a headrest operably engaged with a headrest motor), a powered armrest (e.g., an armrest operably engaged with an armrest motor), a powered seat pan (e.g., a seat pan operably engaged with a seat pan motor), a powered thinrest (e.g., a thinrest operably engaged with a thinrest motor), and / or a powered foot brace (e.g., a foot brace operably engaged with a foot brace motor) or a powered heel stop (e.g., a heel stop operably engaged with a heel stop motor)). the powered non-integrated patient support 210 and / or the powered integrated patient support 221 includes a backrest motor, a headrest motor, an armrest motor, a seat pan motor, a thinrest motor, and / or a powered foot brace motor or heel stop motor; a power source 260 configured to provide power to one or more of the backrest motor, headrest motor, armrest motor, seat pan motor, thinrest motor, and / or foot brace motor or heel stop motor of the powered non-integrated patient support 210 and / or the powered integrated patient support 221; a computer (e.g., a microprocessor) 270; and a database 250.In some embodiments, the computer 270 controls one or more motorized components of the integrated patient support 221 and / or the non-integrated patient support 210 according to software instructions recorded on a tangible medium to configure the integrated patient support 221 and / or the non-integrated patient support 210 according to patient support configuration data (one or more of a backrest height index value, a backrest angle index value, a seat pan height index value, a seat pan angle index value, a thin rest distance index value, a thin rest height index value, a thin rest angle index value, a foot brace or heel stop distance index value, an armrest height index value, an armrest arm angle index value, and / or an armrest flexion portion angle index value), e.g., patient support configuration data stored in the database 250. In some embodiments, the computer 270 records (e.g., in the database 250) one or more index values ​​(one or more of a backrest height index value, a backrest angle index value, a seat pan height index value, a seat pan angle index value, a thin rest distance index value, a thin rest height index value, a thin rest angle index value, a foot brace or heel stop distance index value, an armrest height index value, an armrest arm angle index value, and / or an armrest flexion portion angle index value) that describe the configuration of the powered non-integrated patient support 210 and / or the powered integrated patient support 221.

[0118] In some embodiments, the system comprises a computer and / or data storage provided virtually (e.g., as a cloud computing resource). In some embodiments, the present technology involves the use of cloud computing to provide a virtual computer system comprising computer components and / or performing computer functions as described herein. Thus, in some embodiments, cloud computing provides infrastructure, applications, and software as described herein over a network and / or over the Internet. In some embodiments, computing resources (e.g., data analysis, calculations, data storage, application programs, file storage, etc.) are provided remotely over a network (e.g., the Internet; and / or a cellular network).

[0119] In some embodiments, one or more components are provided in individual software objects connected in a modular system. In some embodiments, the software objects are extensible and portable. In some embodiments, the objects comprise data structures and operations that transform object data. In some embodiments, the objects are used by manipulating their data and invoking their methods. Thus, embodiments provide manipulable software objects that mimic, model, or provide concrete entities, e.g., numbers, shapes, data structures. In some embodiments, the software objects are operable on a computer or microprocessor. In some embodiments, the software objects are stored on a computer-readable medium.

[0120] Embodiments include the use of code to create and manipulate software objects, such as encoded using languages ​​such as, but not limited to, BASIC, Java, C, C++, C#, Python, PHP, Ruby, Perl, MATLAB, Mathematica, Object Pascal, Objective-C, Swift, Scala, Common Lisp, and Smalltalk.

[0121] Installation leveling adjustment In some embodiments, multiple adjustments find use in adjusting the position of the patient support, for example, leveling the patient support (e.g., integrated and / or non-integrated patient support) during installation or on an ad-hoc basis. In some embodiments, the adjustments are as described in U.S. Patent Application No. 17 / 894,335, which is incorporated herein by reference. The adjustments each have X, Y, and Z adjustments for leveling. For example, an adjustment can be adjusted in the Z direction and then adjusted radially to provide X and / or Y adjustments. In some embodiments, the X and Y adjustments are independent of (do not affect) the Z adjustment.

[0122] During installation, the adjustment fixtures are positioned to define a horizontal plane in the vertical direction (e.g., Z direction). One adjustment fixture is then moved to achieve the desired position in a first direction (e.g., X direction), and the other two adjustment fixtures are moved to achieve the desired position in a second direction (e.g., Y direction). In some embodiments, the adjustment fixtures provide an adjustment range of + / - about 2.5 mm (e.g., about 2 to 3 mm (e.g., 2.00, 2.05, 2.10, 2.15, 2.20, 2.25, 2.30, 2.35, 2.40, 2.45, 2.50, 2.55, 2.60, 2.65, 2.70, 2.75, 2.80, 2.85, 2.90, 2.95, or 3.00 mm)).

[0123] Vacuum bag In some embodiments, the vacuum bag finds use in the patient supports described herein (e.g., integrated patient supports and / or non-integrated patient supports). In some embodiments, the vacuum bag is as described in U.S. Patent Application No. 17 / 894,335, which is incorporated herein by reference. For example, in some embodiments, the vacuum bag is provided on a seat pan, a seat back, and / or an armrest. The vacuum bag is a bag containing a "bean" (e.g., a polymer sphere (e.g., Styrofoam) like those found in bean bags), which is malleable and easily collapses before drawing a vacuum. The anatomy is pressed into the vacuum bag, and the vacuum bag is drawn to lock the bean in place (e.g., mold the vacuum bag to the patient to provide a custom-fitting profile), providing a customized vacuum bag for the patient. The customized vacuum bag can then be removed, stored, and reused for the patient at a later time. In some embodiments, the vacuum bag includes several internal sections to minimize bean movement, as described, for example, in U.S. Patent Application No. 17 / 894,335, which is incorporated herein by reference.

[0124] In some embodiments, the present technology provides a method of conforming a vacuum bag to a patient. The method includes providing a non-integral patient support and providing a vacuum bag on a seat pan, backrest, and / or armrest of the non-integral patient support to provide the non-integral patient support comprising the vacuum bag. The method further includes positioning a patient on the non-integral patient support comprising the vacuum bag and evacuating a portion of the air within the vacuum bag to provide a contoured vacuum bag specific to the shape of the patient. In some embodiments, the method includes storing the contoured vacuum bag for later use for the patient. In some embodiments, the method includes providing an integrated patient support and providing a contoured vacuum bag on a seat pan, backrest, and / or armrest of the integrated patient support to provide the integrated patient support comprising the contoured vacuum bag. In some embodiments, the method includes positioning a patient on the integrated patient support comprising the contoured vacuum bag. In some embodiments, the vacuum bag and the seat pan, backrest, and / or armrests of a patient support (e.g., a non-integral patient support and / or an integrated patient support) include complementary (e.g., mating) components of a keyed interface (e.g., a key and groove) to maximize proper positioning of the vacuum bag on the integrated patient support. For example, in some embodiments, the surface of the vacuum bag that contacts the seat pan, backrest, and / or armrest includes a key that is complementary to and positioned in a corresponding notch provided on the seat pan, backrest, and / or armrest of the non-integral patient support and the integrated patient support.

[0125] method In some embodiments, the present technology provides methods related to and systems including the non-integral patient supports described herein. For example, as shown in FIG. 3 , an embodiment of a method 300 includes providing 310 a non-integral patient support as described herein and configuring 320 the non-integral patient support (e.g., by positioning one or more configurable and movable components of the non-integral patient support (e.g., a backrest, armrests, seat pan, shin rest, and / or a foot brace or heel stop)) to provide a configured non-integral patient support. In some embodiments, positioning the one or more configurable and movable components of the non-integral patient support includes manually translating and / or rotating the one or more configurable and movable components of the non-integral patient support (e.g., a backrest, armrests, seat pan, shin rest, and / or a foot brace or heel stop). In some embodiments, positioning the one or more configurable, movable components of the non-integral patient support comprises translating and / or rotating the one or more configurable, movable components of the non-integral patient support (e.g., backrest, armrest, seat pan, thinrest, and / or foot brace or heel stop) by activating one or more motorized components, e.g., a motorized backrest (e.g., a backrest operably engaged with a backrest motor), a motorized headrest (e.g., a headrest operably engaged with a headrest motor), a motorized armrest (e.g., an armrest operably engaged with an armrest motor), a motorized seat pan (e.g., a seat pan operably engaged with a seat pan motor), a motorized thinrest (e.g., a thinrest operably engaged with a thinrest motor), and / or a motorized foot brace (e.g., a foot brace operably engaged with a foot brace motor) or a motorized heel stop (e.g., a heel stop operably engaged with a heel stop motor).

[0126] Next, the method 300 includes positioning 330 a patient on the configured non-integral patient support to provide a configured non-integral patient support including the positioned patient, checking 340 the configuration of the configured non-integral patient support including the positioned patient, and determining 350 whether the configuration of the configured non-integral patient support including the patient is suitable for properly positioning the patient for medical imaging and / or radiation therapy (351) or whether the configuration of the configured non-integral patient support including the patient is not suitable for properly positioning the patient for medical imaging and / or radiation therapy (352). In some embodiments, checking 340 the configuration of the configured non-integral patient support including the positioned patient includes a clinician visually checking the configuration. In some embodiments, checking 340 the configuration of the configured non-integral patient support including the positioned patient includes comparing an image of the configured non-integral patient support to a reference image of the patient support in the proper configuration. In some embodiments, checking 340 the configuration of the configured non-integrated patient support with the positioned patient includes comparing one or more index values ​​of several components of the patient support to one or more reference index values ​​of a properly configured patient support. In some embodiments, checking 340 the configuration of the configured non-integrated patient support with the positioned patient includes simulating medical imaging of the patient (e.g., simulating a CT scan) or simulating radiation therapy.

[0127] If the determining step 350 identifies that the configured non-integrated patient support is not suitable for properly positioning the patient for medical imaging and / or radiation therapy (352), then the method 300 includes adjusting 355 the configuration of the configured non-integrated patient support including the positioned patient; repeating the step 340 of checking the configuration of the configured non-integrated patient support including the positioned patient; and determining 350 whether the configuration of the configured non-integrated patient support including the patient is suitable for properly positioning the patient for medical imaging and / or radiation therapy (351) or whether the configuration of the configured non-integrated patient support including the patient is not suitable for properly positioning the patient for medical imaging and / or radiation therapy (352). After performing a number of checking steps 340 and determining steps 350, and performing a number of adjusting steps 355, if necessary, to identify or verify that the configuration of the configured non-integral patient support including the patient is suitable for properly positioning the patient for medical imaging and / or radiation therapy 351, the method 300 then includes recording 360 a number of index values ​​describing the configuration of the non-integral patient support to provide a recorded patient support configuration (e.g., including one or more of a backrest height index value, a backrest angle index value, a seat pan height index value, a seat pan angle index value, a thin rest distance index value, a thin rest height index value, a thin rest angle index value, a foot brace or heel stop distance index value, an armrest height index value, an armrest arm angle index value, and / or an armrest flexion portion angle index value). In some embodiments, recording 360 a number of index values ​​describing the configuration of the non-integral patient support includes manually recording the number of index values. In some embodiments, recording 360 a number of index values ​​describing the configuration of the non-integral patient support includes storing the number of index values ​​in a database.

[0128] In some embodiments, the steps of checking and determining, and adjusting as necessary, occur after configuring 320 the non-integral patient support and before positioning the patient on the configured non-integral patient support.

[0129] In some embodiments, method 300 includes using 370 several index values ​​that describe the configuration of a non-integrated patient support in a method for configuring an integrated patient support (e.g., according to an embodiment of method 400).

[0130] In some embodiments, the present technology provides methods related to configuring a non-integral patient support, as described herein, and systems including a non-integral patient support and an integrated patient support. For example, as shown in FIG. 4 , an embodiment of method 400 includes providing 410 an integrated patient support (e.g., a patient support that is an integral component of a medical imaging or radiation therapy system); and providing 420 a recorded patient support configuration including a number of index values ​​describing the configuration of the integrated patient support (e.g., including one or more of a backrest height index value, a backrest angle index value, a seat pan height index value, a seat pan angle index value, a thin rest distance index value, a thin rest height index value, a thin rest angle index value, a foot brace or heel stop distance index value, an armrest height index value, an armrest arm angle index value, and / or an armrest flexion portion angle index value). In some embodiments, the index values ​​describing the configuration of the integrated patient support are provided by recording 360 a number of index values ​​describing the configuration of the non-integral patient support in an embodiment of method 300. For example, in some embodiments, some index values ​​are obtained from a database containing recorded index values ​​provided by an embodiment of method 300 .

[0131] In some embodiments, method 400 includes identifying a patient and providing 420 a recorded patient support configuration by retrieving a recorded index value provided for the patient by a previously performed embodiment of method 300. In some embodiments, providing 420 a recorded patient support configuration includes identifying the patient by retrieving patient identification information for the patient (e.g., a unique patient identifier, the patient's first name, the patient's last name, the patient's medical condition, and / or demographic information (e.g., height, weight, biological sex, race or ancestry, body type, etc.) etc.) and comparing the patient identification information with stored patient information (e.g., a unique patient identifier, the patient's first name, the patient's last name, the patient's medical condition, and / or demographic information (e.g., height, weight, biological sex, race or ancestry, body type, etc.) etc.) stored in a database and associated with a number of stored index values ​​describing a configuration of the integrated patient support to be used for the patient.

[0132] In some embodiments, the method 400 includes configuring 430 the integrated patient support by positioning one or more configurable, movable components of the integrated patient support (e.g., a backrest, an armrest, a seat pan, a thin rest, and / or a foot brace or heel stop) according to a recorded patient support configuration including a number of index values ​​(e.g., including one or more of a backrest height index value, a backrest angle index value, a seat pan height index value, a seat pan angle index value, a thin rest distance index value, a thin rest height index value, a thin rest angle index value, a foot brace or heel stop distance index value, an armrest height index value, an armrest arm angle index value, and / or an armrest flexion portion angle index value) to provide a configured integrated patient support.

[0133] In some embodiments, positioning one or more configurable and movable components of the integrated patient support includes manually translating and / or rotating one or more configurable and movable components of the non-integral patient support (e.g., the backrest, armrests, seat pan, thin rest, and / or foot brace or heel stop) to position each component according to the recorded patient support configuration (e.g., according to one or more of the backrest height index value, backrest angle index value, seat pan height index value, seat pan angle index value, thin rest distance index value, thin rest height index value, thin rest angle index value, foot brace or heel stop distance index value, armrest height index value, armrest arm angle index value, and / or armrest flexion portion angle index value).

[0134] In some embodiments, positioning one or more configurable, movable components of the integrated patient support includes positioning one or more powered components, such as a powered backrest (e.g., a backrest operably engaged with a backrest motor), a powered headrest (e.g., a headrest operably engaged with a headrest motor), a powered armrest (e.g., an armrest operably engaged with an armrest motor), a powered seat pan (e.g., a seat pan operably engaged with a seat pan motor), a powered thin rest (e.g., a thin rest operably engaged with a thin rest motor), and / or a powered foot brace (e.g., a foot brace operably engaged with a foot brace motor) or a powered heel stop (e.g., a heel stop operably engaged with a heel stop motor). and activating a patient support control signal (e.g., a control signal) to translate and / or rotate one or more configurable, movable components (e.g., a backrest, armrests, seat pan, thin rest, and / or foot brace or heel stop) of the integrated patient support to position each component according to the recorded patient support configuration (e.g., according to one or more of a backrest height index value, a backrest angle index value, a seat pan height index value, a seat pan angle index value, thin rest distance index value, thin rest height index value, thin rest angle index value, foot brace or heel stop distance index value, armrest height index value, armrest arm angle index value, and / or armrest flexion portion angle index value).

[0135] Next, method 400 includes positioning 440 a patient on the configured integrated patient support to provide a configured integrated patient support including the positioned patient; checking 450 the configuration of the configured non-integrated patient support including the positioned patient; and determining 460 whether the configuration of the configured integrated patient support including the patient is suitable for properly positioning the patient for medical imaging and / or radiation therapy (461) or whether the configuration of the configured integrated patient support including the patient is not suitable for properly positioning the patient for medical imaging and / or radiation therapy (462). In some embodiments, checking 450 the configuration of the configured integrated patient support including the positioned patient includes a clinician visually checking the configuration. In some embodiments, checking 450 the configuration of the configured integrated patient support including the positioned patient includes comparing an image of the configured integrated patient support to a reference image of the patient support in the proper configuration. In some embodiments, checking 450 the configuration of the configured non-integrated patient support with the positioned patient includes comparing one or more index values ​​of several components of the patient support to one or more reference index values ​​of a properly configured patient support. In some embodiments, checking 450 the configuration of the configured integrated patient support with the positioned patient includes simulating medical imaging of the patient (e.g., simulating a CT scan) or simulating radiation therapy.

[0136] If the determining step (460) identifies that the configured integrated patient support is not suitable for properly positioning the patient for medical imaging and / or radiation therapy (462), then the method 400 includes adjusting the configuration of the configured integrated patient support including the positioned patient (465); repeating the step of checking the configuration of the configured integrated patient support including the positioned patient (450); and determining whether the configuration of the configured integrated patient support including the patient is suitable for properly positioning the patient for medical imaging and / or radiation therapy (461) or whether the configuration of the configured integrated patient support including the patient is not suitable for properly positioning the patient for medical imaging and / or radiation therapy (462). After performing a number of checking steps 450 and determining steps 460 to identify or verify that the configuration of the configured integrated patient support including the patient is suitable for properly positioning the patient for medical imaging and / or radiation therapy (461), and performing a number of adjusting steps 465 if necessary, the method 400 then includes performing 470 medical imaging and / or radiation therapy on the patient.

[0137] In some embodiments of method 400, the steps of checking and determining, and adjusting as needed, are performed after configuring 430 the integrated patient support and before positioning a patient on the configured integrated patient support.

[0138] Thus, in some embodiments, the present technology provides a method that includes an embodiment of method 300 and an embodiment of method 400, performed as a single method that includes the steps of method 300 and the steps of method 400.

[0139] In some embodiments, the steps of the described methods (e.g., method 300 and / or method 400) are performed in software code, e.g., a series of procedural steps, that instruct a computer and / or microprocessor to generate and / or transform data, to energize and / or activate motors to translate and / or rotate components of the patient support, and / or to store or retrieve data (e.g., patient data or patient support configuration) on or from a tangible medium as described above. In some embodiments, the software instructions are encoded in a programming language, such as, for example, BASIC, Java, C, C++, C#, Python, PHP, Ruby, Perl, MATLAB, Mathematica, Objective Pascal, Objective-C, Swift, Scala, Common Lisp, and Smalltalk.

[0140] In some embodiments, one or more steps are provided in individual software objects connected in a modular system. In some embodiments, the software objects are extensible and portable. In some embodiments, the objects comprise data structures and operations that transform object data. In some embodiments, the objects are used by manipulating their data and invoking their methods. Thus, embodiments provide manipulable software objects that mimic, model, or provide concrete entities, e.g., numbers, shapes, data structures. In some embodiments, the software objects are operable on a computer or microprocessor. In some embodiments, the software objects are stored on a computer-readable medium.

[0141] In some embodiments, the method steps described herein are provided as object methods. In some embodiments, the data and / or data structures described herein are provided as object data structures.

[0142] Some embodiments provide an object-oriented pipeline for performing methods including an embodiment of method 300, an embodiment of method 400, or a combination of method 300 followed by method 400, comprising one or more software objects for, for example, recording a patient support configuration (e.g., of a non-integrated patient support) and configuring a patient support (e.g., an integrated patient support) using the recorded patient support configuration.

[0143] Embodiments include the use of code to create and manipulate software objects, such as encoded using languages ​​such as, but not limited to, BASIC, Java, C, C++, C#, Python, PHP, Ruby, Perl, MATLAB, Mathematica, Object Pascal, Objective-C, Swift, Scala, Common Lisp, and Smalltalk.

[0144] While the disclosure herein refers to specific illustrated embodiments, it should be understood that these embodiments are presented by way of example and not by way of limitation. All publications and patents mentioned in the above specification are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety for all purposes. Various modifications and variations of the described configurations, methods, and uses of the present technology will be apparent to those skilled in the art without departing from the scope and spirit of the technology as described. While the present technology has been described in connection with specific exemplary embodiments, it should be understood that the invention as claimed should not be unduly limited to such specific embodiments. Indeed, various modifications of the described modes for carrying out the invention that are obvious to those skilled in the art are intended to be within the scope of the following claims.

Claims

1. a subsystem comprising a first patient support; a second patient support; and A medical treatment system comprising:

2. 10. The medical treatment system of claim 1, wherein the first patient support is structured to support the patient in an upright position and the second patient support is structured to support the patient in an upright position.

3. 3. The medical treatment system of claim 2, wherein the upright position is a standing, sitting, kneeling, or perched position.

4. 10. The medical treatment system of claim 1, wherein the subsystem is a medical imaging subsystem comprising an imaging source and a detector.

5. 10. The medical treatment system of claim 1, wherein the subsystem is a radiation therapy subsystem comprising a radiation therapy source.

6. 10. The medical treatment system of claim 1, wherein the subsystem is a medical imaging and radiation therapy subsystem comprising an imaging source, a detector, and a radiation therapy source.

7. 7. The medical treatment system of claim 6, wherein the radiation therapy source is a static source.

8. The medical treatment system of claim 1 , wherein the first patient support is configured to rotate about a substantially vertical axis.

9. 10. The medical treatment system of claim 1, wherein the first patient support is coupled to components that translate the first patient support in three dimensions and rotate the first patient support about three axes.

10. The medical treatment system of claim 1 , wherein the second patient support comprises a stand or base.

11. The medical treatment system of claim 1 , wherein the second patient support is floor mounted.

11. 10. The medical treatment system of claim 1, wherein the first patient support and the second patient support are in different rooms.

12. The medical treatment system of claim 1 further comprising a database.

13. 13. The medical treatment system of claim 12, further comprising a computer.

14. 13. The medical treatment system of claim 12, wherein the database comprises a data structure describing a patient support configuration that includes several index values ​​recorded from the second patient support.

15. 15. The medical treatment system of claim 14, wherein the database further comprises patient information for the patient, the patient information being associated with the patient support configuration.

16. 16. The medical treatment system of claim 15, wherein the first patient support is configured according to a patient support configuration of the patient.

17. 17. The medical treatment system of claim 16, wherein the patient is identified by or associated with patient information.

18. 10. The medical treatment system of claim 1, wherein the first patient support comprises a seat pan, a shin rest, and a heel stop, and the second patient support comprises a seat pan, a shin rest, and a heel stop.

19. 10. The medical treatment system of claim 1, wherein the first patient support further comprises a backrest and the second patient support further comprises a backrest.

20. 15. The medical treatment system of claim 14, wherein the index values ​​include a backrest height index value, a backrest angle index value, a seat pan height index value, a seat pan angle index value, a thin rest distance index value, a thin rest height index value, a thin rest angle index value, a foot brace or heel stop distance index value, an armrest height index value, an armrest arm angle index value, and / or an armrest flexion portion angle index value.

21. providing a medical treatment system comprising a first patient support and a second patient support; configuring a second patient support to provide a configured second patient support; recording a patient support configuration describing the configured second patient support configuration to provide a recorded patient support configuration; configuring the first patient support according to the recorded patient support configuration; A method comprising:

21. 22. The method of claim 21, further comprising positioning a patient on a configured second patient support to provide a configured second patient support including the positioned patient.

22. 22. The method of claim 21, further comprising checking the configuration of a configured second patient support.

23. 22. The method of claim 21, further comprising adjusting the configuration of a pre-configured second patient support.

24. 22. The method of claim 21, wherein recording the patient support configuration comprises recording a number of index values ​​that describe the configuration of the configured second patient support.

25. 22. The method of claim 21, wherein the recorded patient support configurations include a number of index values ​​that describe the configuration of the configured second patient support.

26. 25. The method of claim 24, wherein the index values ​​include a backrest height index value, a backrest angle index value, a seat pan height index value, a seat pan angle index value, a thin rest distance index value, a thin rest height index value, a thin rest angle index value, a foot brace or heel stop distance index value, an armrest height index value, an armrest arm angle index value, and / or an armrest flexion portion angle index value.

27. 22. The method of claim 21, further comprising positioning a patient on a first patient support and performing medical imaging and / or radiation therapy on the patient.

28. 22. The method of claim 21, wherein the first patient support is structured to support the patient in an upright position and the second patient support is structured to support the patient in an upright position.

29. 22. The method of claim 21, wherein the upright position is a standing, sitting, kneeling, or perched position.

30. 22. The method of claim 21, wherein the medical imaging subsystem comprises a first patient support, an imaging source, and a detector.

31. 22. The method of claim 21, wherein the radiation treatment subsystem comprises a first patient support and a radiation treatment source.

32. 22. The method of claim 21, wherein the medical imaging and radiation therapy subsystem comprises a first patient support, an imaging source, a detector, and a radiation therapy source.

33. 33. The method of claim 32, wherein the radiotherapy source is a static source.

34. 22. The method of claim 21, wherein the first patient support is configured to rotate about a substantially vertical axis.

35. 22. The method of claim 21, wherein the first patient support is coupled to components that translate the first patient support in three dimensions and rotate the first patient support about three axes.

36. 22. The method of claim 21, wherein the second patient support comprises a stand or base.

37. 22. The method of claim 21, wherein the second patient support is floor mounted.

38. 22. The method of claim 21, wherein the first patient support and the second patient support are in different rooms.

39. 22. The method of claim 21, wherein recording the patient support configuration comprises creating a data structure in a database that describes the patient support configuration.

40. 40. The method of claim 39, wherein recording the patient support configuration further comprises recording patient information for a patient associated with the patient support configuration.

41. 41. The method of claim 40, wherein the patient is identified by or associated with patient information.

42. 41. The method of claim 40, wherein the first patient support comprises a seat pan, a shin rest, and a heel stop, and the second patient support comprises a seat pan, a shin rest, and a heel stop.

43. 43. The method of claim 42, wherein the first patient support further comprises a backrest and the second patient support further comprises a backrest.

44. Use of a medical treatment system comprising a first patient support and a second patient support to record a patient support configuration and provide a patient support configuration for medical imaging and radiation treatment of the patient.

45. 45. The use of claim 44, wherein the second patient support is used to record a patient support configuration, and the recorded patient support configuration is used to configure the first patient support.

46. 10. Use of the medical treatment system of claim 1 for medical imaging and radiation therapy of a patient.

47. 22. Use of the method according to claim 21 for medical imaging and radiotherapy of a patient.

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