Method and system for a multi-positioner holder

Abstract

To provide various systems for a support assembly for a medical imaging system.SOLUTION: In one example, a system comprises a support assembly for use with an imaging system. The support assembly comprises: a cradle including a base and opposing sidewalls; and a plurality of pads shaped to attach to the base within an opening formed between the opposing sidewalls, where each of the pads supports a head or extremity of a subject to be imaged at a different angle relative to the base.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 3A

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION Embodiments of the subject matter disclosed herein relate to methods and systems for supporting the head or limbs of a patient's body. [Background technology]

[0002] Patient head or limb support systems are used in a variety of environments. Support systems that can be set to various angles within a certain range can be used to support and position a patient's head or limbs at individual angles during an imaging scan. Being able to tilt and maintain the position of a patient's head or limbs during an imaging scan is crucial to image quality. In one example, an adjustable head holder can be used to selectively maintain a patient's head position to avoid imaging dental implants and other devices that may cause image artifacts during a medical imaging examination. Furthermore, tilting the patient's head can position sensitive anatomical structures (such as the eyes) outside the X-ray radiation beam, thereby reducing the dose received by these structures. While an adjustable head holder would otherwise prevent a patient from holding their head in a specific orientation during a scan, an adjustable head holder allows the radiologist or operator to position the patient's head. Other patients, who may benefit from the use of an adjustable head holder, may have involuntary movements or resist. Having a mechanism for selecting and maintaining the head position can prevent a patient in such a condition from changing the tilt angle of the adjustable head holder themselves. A support system is also useful when some of the positions in which the patient's head can be positioned would be uncomfortable without the support from the support system. Summary of the Invention

[0003] In one embodiment, the system includes a cradle including opposing sidewalls, and a plurality of pads configured to be attached to the cradle within a clearance defined between the opposing sidewalls, each pad of the plurality of pads supporting a head or arm of a subject being imaged at a different angle relative to the cradle. In this manner, the subject's head or arm can be supported at a variety of distinct angles that are easily adjusted by an operator during a procedure.

[0004] It should be appreciated that the foregoing Summary of the Invention is provided to introduce selected concepts in a simplified form that are further described in the Detailed Description of the Invention. It is not intended to identify key features or essential features of the claimed subject matter, the scope of which is defined solely by the claims. Moreover, the claimed subject matter is not limited to implementations that solve any of the shortcomings noted above or elsewhere in this disclosure. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0005] The present disclosure will be better understood from the following description of non-limiting embodiments, taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which: [Figure 1A] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an imaging system in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 1B] FIG. 1 illustrates a patient table having a mount for a multi-positioner holder in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 2] FIG. 1 is a block diagram of an exemplary imaging system in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 3A] 1 illustrates a first view of an example of a multi-positioner holder according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 3B] FIG. 10 shows a second view of an example multi-positioner holder according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 3C] FIG. 10 is a third view of an example multi-positioner holder in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 3D] FIG. 10 illustrates a fourth view of an exemplary multi-positioner holder in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 4A] 1 illustrates a front perspective view of a first example of an exemplary multi-positioner holder pad according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. FIG. [Figure 4B] 1 illustrates a rear perspective view of a first example of an exemplary multi-positioner holder pad according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. FIG. [Figure 5A] 1 illustrates a front perspective view of a second example of an exemplary multi-positioner holder pad according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 5B] 1 illustrates a rear perspective view of a second example of an exemplary multi-positioner holder pad according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 6A] 10 illustrates a front perspective view of a third example of an exemplary multi-positioner holder pad according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 6B] 10 illustrates a cross-sectional view of a third example of an exemplary multi-positioner holder pad in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 7A] 1 illustrates an example of a first position of a multi-positioner holder in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 7B] 10 illustrates an example of a multi-positioner holder in a second position in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 7C] 10 illustrates an example of a third position of a multi-positioner holder in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 8] 1 illustrates a front perspective view of a first exemplary configuration of multiple pads for an exemplary multi-positioner holder, in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 9A] FIG. 10 illustrates a rear perspective view of a second exemplary configuration of multiple pads for an exemplary multi-positioner holder, in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 9B]10A shows a front perspective view of a second exemplary configuration of multiple pads for an exemplary multi-positioner holder, in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. FIG. [Figure 10A] FIG. 10 is a rear perspective view of a third exemplary configuration of multiple pads for an exemplary multi-positioner holder, in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 10B] FIG. 10 is a rear perspective view of a third exemplary configuration of multiple pads for an exemplary multi-positioner holder, in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0006] The following description relates to an example support assembly for a medical imaging system. In one embodiment, the system is a multi-positioner holder for an imaging system, such as the computed tomography (CT) imaging system shown in FIGS. 1A-2. A first example of a multi-positioner holder, as shown in FIGS. 3A-3D, comprises a cradle including opposing sidewalls for supporting a subject to be imaged. The multi-positioner holder can be used with multiple pads, each pad configured to be secured to the cradle within a clearance formed between the opposing sidewalls, and each pad of the multiple pads supporting the head or limb of the subject to be imaged. In one embodiment, the multiple pads can include a pad configured to support a head at a first angle. An example of this is shown in FIGS. 4A and 4B. In one example, the multiple pads can include a pad configured to support a limb (e.g., a foot or hand) at a first angle. An example of this is shown in FIGS. 5A and 5B. The exemplary head and limb pads may be used alone, or one of the head and limb pads may be used in combination with a pad at a different second angle. Examples of angled positioning pads are shown in FIGS. 6A-6B. The pads can be arranged in various configurations within the cradle, either alone or in combination. FIGS. 7A, 7B, and 7C show examples of first, second, and third positions, respectively, that can be achieved using various configurations of pads arranged in a multi-positioner holder. FIG. 8 shows a first exemplary configuration of pads for an exemplary multi-positioner holder. FIGS. 9A-9B show front and cross-sectional views, respectively, of a second exemplary configuration of pads for an exemplary multi-positioner holder. In some examples, the pads and multi-positioner holder can be used for imaging at a positive or negative angle. FIGS. 10A and 10B show an exemplary configuration of pads arranged in a multi-positioner holder to achieve a negative angle. Although Figures 3A-6B and 8-10B are shown to scale, other relative dimensions can be used as desired.

[0007] In one embodiment, the multi-positioner holder can assist radiologists in positioning the head or other extremities of a subject (also referred to herein as a patient) during a computed tomography x-ray examination. A previous example includes a CT imaging system with a tilting gantry mechanism, where a fixed head holder is used for axial head scans to avoid directing x-ray radiation toward the subject's eyes. Another example involves a head holder that includes an adjustment mechanism with a lock to maintain a selected angle. The multi-positioner holder of the present disclosure ensures optimal positioning for neuroimaging in a CT imaging system, which is advantageous when the gantry is fixed and cannot be tilted. This can be achieved by inserting one or more of the pads into the cradle of the multi-positioner holder. The multi-positioner holder can tilt the patient's head forward to align the brain anatomy with the scanner's field of view. This can minimize radiation exposure to the eyes and reduce image artifacts caused by dental implants. The inserted pads can be changed for each patient to allow the subject being imaged to be positioned at a desired tilt relative to the vertical. Because the cradle or frame is relatively large, additional pads can be added to support additional appendages (e.g., wrists, hands, ankles, feet, etc.). Similarly, the multi-positioner holder can utilize additional pads to support infants or small animals, providing the aforementioned benefits. In some instances, the pads are color-coded to allow the user to visually identify and quickly select the appropriate pad. In some embodiments, positioning using angled pads may be preferable to existing head holder designs due to their range of tilt relative to the vertical axis, stability, and reduced risk of pinching. By way of example, selectable angles include 0°, 15°, 30°, and 45°, although other angle ranges may be utilized without departing from the scope of this disclosure.

[0008] The multi-positioner holder can be used to support and adjust a patient's head or limbs at various angles during an imaging scan. In one embodiment, the multi-positioner holder can use a strap mechanism to hold one or more selected pads and secure the held pads to the holder. This means that once the support assembly is properly positioned, the configuration is fixed and the patient cannot change the angle. Additionally, the multi-positioner holder can include a pair of slots on opposing side walls. The opposing slots are openings through which additional straps can be inserted to secure the position of the patient's head or limbs.

[0009] 3A through 10B illustrate exemplary configurations of the relative positions of various elements. When elements are shown as being in direct contact with or directly coupled to one another, these elements can, in at least one embodiment, be referred to as directly contacting or directly coupled elements, respectively. Similarly, elements shown as being contiguous or adjacent to one another can, in at least one embodiment, be referred to as contiguous or adjacent elements, respectively. As an example, elements that share a common surface with one another can be referred to as being contiguous. As another example, elements that are spaced apart from one another can, in at least one embodiment, be referred to as being spaced apart if there is a space between the elements but not other elements. As yet another example, elements that are shown above and below one another, opposite one another, or left and right from one another can be referred to as being above and below, opposite one another, or left and right from one another. Furthermore, as shown in the figures, in at least one embodiment, the topmost element or the uppermost point of an element can be referred to as the "top" of the element, and the bottommost element or the lowermost point of an element can be referred to as the "bottom" of the element. As used herein, top / bottom, upper / lower, and above / below represent relative to the vertical axis of the figure and are used to describe the location of elements of the figure relative to one another. Thus, elements shown on top of other elements, in one example, are vertically positioned above the other elements. As yet another example, the shapes of elements shown in the figures can be referred to as having those shapes (e.g., circular, rectilinear, flat, curved, rounded, chamfered, angled, etc.). Furthermore, elements shown to intersect with one another, in at least one example, can be referred to as intersecting elements or intersecting elements. Furthermore, elements shown within or outside of other elements can, in one example, be referred to as elements shown within or outside of other elements.

[0010] FIG. 1A illustrates an exemplary CT system 100 configured for CT imaging. In particular, the CT system 100 is configured to image a subject 112, such as a patient, an inanimate object, one or more manufactured parts, and / or a foreign object (such as a dental implant, a stent, and / or a contrast agent present in the body). In one embodiment, the CT system 100 includes a gantry 102, which may further include at least one X-ray source 104 that emits an X-ray radiation beam 106 (see FIG. 2 ) used to image the subject 112 residing on a patient table or table 114. Specifically, the X-ray source 104 is configured to output the X-ray radiation beam 106 toward a detector array 108 positioned on the opposite side of the gantry 102. Although only a single X-ray source 104 is shown in FIG. 1 , in an exemplary embodiment, multiple X-ray sources and multiple detectors may be used to output multiple X-ray radiation beams 106 and acquire projection data at different energy levels corresponding to the patient. In some embodiments, the X-ray source 104 can perform dual-energy gemstone spectral imaging (GSI) through rapid peak kilovoltage (kVp) switching. In some embodiments, the X-ray detector used is a photon-counting detector that can distinguish between X-ray photons of different energies. In other embodiments, two sets of X-ray sources and detectors can be used to generate dual-energy projections, one set for low kVp and one set for high kVp. Thus, it should be understood that the methods described herein can be implemented with both single-energy and dual-energy acquisition techniques.

[0011] In certain embodiments, the CT system 100 further includes an image processor unit 110 that reconstructs an image of a target volume of the object 112 using an iterative image reconstruction method or an analytical image reconstruction method. For example, the image processor unit 110 may reconstruct an image of the target volume of the patient using an analytical image reconstruction method such as filtered back projection (FBP). As another example, the image processor unit 110 may reconstruct an image of the target volume of the object 112 using an iterative image reconstruction method such as advanced statistical iterative reconstruction (ASIR), conjugate gradient (CG), maximum likelihood expectation maximization (MLEM), or model-based iterative reconstruction (MBIR). As described further herein, in some examples, the image processor unit 110 may also use analytical image reconstruction methods (such as FBP) in addition to the iterative image reconstruction method.

[0012] In some CT imaging system configurations, an x-ray source emits a cone-shaped beam of x-ray radiation that is collimated to extend within the XYZ plane of a Cartesian coordinate system and is commonly referred to as the "image plane." The x-ray radiation beam passes through the object being imaged (such as a patient or subject). After being attenuated by the object, the x-ray radiation beam impinges on an array of detector elements. The intensity of the attenuated x-ray radiation beam received at the detector array depends on the attenuation of the radiation beam by the object. Each detector element in the array produces a separate electrical signal that is a measurement of the x-ray beam attenuation at the detector location. The attenuation measurements from all detector elements are acquired separately to create a transmission profile.

[0013] In a CT imaging system, the X-ray source and detector array rotate with a gantry around the object being imaged in the imaging plane so that the angle at which the radiation beam intersects the object is constantly changing. A group of attenuation measurements of X-ray radiation (e.g., projection data) from the detector array at a gantry angle is called a "view." A "scan" of an object includes a set of views obtained at different gantry angles (or view angles) during one revolution of the X-ray source and detector. Because the benefits of the methods described herein are contemplated for medical imaging modalities other than CT, the term "view" used herein is not limited to projection data from one gantry angle as described above. The term "view" is used to refer to a single data acquisition when multiple data are acquired from different angles, even data from CT, positron emission tomography (PET), or single-photon emission CT (SPECT) acquisitions, and / or other modalities, including modalities yet to be developed, as well as combinations thereof in fused embodiments.

[0014] The projection data is processed to reconstruct an image corresponding to a two-dimensional slice taken through the object. In some cases where the projection data is from multiple views or scans, a three-dimensional rendering of the object is reconstructed. One method for reconstructing an image from a set of projection data is known in the art as filtered backprojection. Transmission and emission tomography reconstruction techniques also include statistical iterative techniques, such as maximum likelihood expectation maximization (MLEM) and ordered-subsets expectation-reconstruction techniques, as well as iterative reconstruction techniques. This process converts the attenuation measurements from the scan into integers called "CT numbers" or "Hounsfield units," which are used to control the brightness of corresponding pixels on a display device.

[0015] To reduce the total scan time, a "helical" scan can be performed. To perform a "helical" scan, the patient is moved while a predetermined number of slices of data are acquired. In such systems, a cone-beam helical scan generates a spiral. The spiral traced by the cone beam generates projection data from which images of each predetermined slice can be reconstructed.

[0016] As used herein, the phrase "reconstructing an image" is not intended to exclude embodiments of the present invention in which data representing an image is generated but a viewable image is not generated. Accordingly, as used herein, the term "image" broadly refers to both a displayable image and data representing a displayable image. However, many embodiments generate (or are configured to generate) at least one displayable image.

[0017] In one embodiment, the table 114 includes a multi-positioner holder 116 that can be combined with one or more of a plurality of pads to position and / or tilt the table 114 to image the anatomical structures. In the embodiment, the holder is shown supporting the head. In other embodiments, the holder may support the extremities. Previous head holders have been bulky, complicated, and presented a risk of entrapment. Furthermore, previous examples required significant operator intervention, making the procedure cumbersome and time-consuming. When the patient's head is positioned in a previous head holder, moving the head can disengage the adjustment mechanism, causing the head holder to reposition. This can result in the patient slipping off the table and falling into the CT gantry.

[0018] In one embodiment of the present disclosure, the multi-positioner holder 116 is a head holder, as described in more detail with respect to FIG. 3A and subsequent figures. The multi-positioner holder 116 can have a cradle including opposing side walls. In some embodiments, the cradle can be used to support a patient's head. In other examples, the cradle can be used to support a patient's extremities. In some embodiments, the cradle can be used in combination with one or more pads from a plurality of pads configured to attach to the cradle within a space formed between the opposing side walls. Using various combinations of pads, multiple tilt angles or multiple angles within a range can be achieved for an imaging examination.

[0019] 1B, a perspective view of table 114 is shown. The table includes a top surface 118 disposed opposite a bottom surface 120. An opening 126 is disposed between top surface 118 and bottom surface 120. Opening 126 can be disposed below a portion of the table that supports the patient's neck (e.g., neck portion 128). Table 114 also includes an angled first surface 122 and an angled second surface 124. Thus, table 114 can have a trapezoidal shape, although it is understood that table 114 can have other shapes (e.g., rectangular, square, etc.) without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. Opening 126 is configured to receive a multi-positioner holder. For example, opening 126 can be referred to as a table mount for a multi-positioner holder. In some embodiments, the multi-positioner holder can be removably coupled to table 114 through opening 126.

[0020] FIG. 2 illustrates an exemplary imaging system 200 similar to the CT imaging system 100 of FIG. 1A. In aspects of the present disclosure, the imaging system 200 is configured to image a subject 204 (e.g., subject 112 of FIG. 1A). In one embodiment, the imaging system 200 includes a detector array 108 (see FIG. 1A). The detector array 108 further includes a plurality of detector elements 202. The plurality of detector elements 202 sense an x-ray radiation beam 106 (see FIG. 2) passing through the subject 204 (e.g., a patient) to acquire corresponding projection data. Thus, in one embodiment, the detector array 108 is fabricated in a multi-slice configuration including multiple rows of cells or detector elements 202. In such a configuration, one or more additional rows of detector elements 202 are arranged in a parallel configuration to acquire projection data.

[0021] In certain embodiments, imaging system 200 is configured to move through different angular positions around object 204 to acquire desired projection data. Thus, gantry 102 and gantry-mounted components may be configured to rotate about center of rotation 206 to acquire projection data at different energy levels, for example. Alternatively, in embodiments in which the projection angle changes relative to object 204 as a function of time, the mounted components may be configured to move along a general curve rather than along a circular arc.

[0022] As the x-ray source 104 and detector array 108 rotate, the detector array 108 collects data of the attenuated x-ray beam. The data collected by the detector array 108 undergoes pre-processing and calibration to condition the data to represent line integrals of the attenuation coefficients of the scanned object 204. The processed data are commonly referred to as projections.

[0023] In some examples, individual detectors or detector elements 202 of the detector array 108 may include photon-counting detectors that record individual photon interactions in one or more energy bins. It should be understood that the methods described herein may also be implemented with energy-integrating detectors.

[0024] The acquired set of projection data can be used for reference material decomposition (BMD). During BMD, the measured projections are converted into a set of material density projections. The material density projections can be reconstructed to form a pair or set of material density maps or images for each reference material, such as bone, soft tissue, and / or a contrast map. These density maps or density images can be correlated in order to form a volumetric image of the reference material (e.g., bone, soft tissue, and / or contrast agent) in the imaging volume.

[0025] Once reconstructed, the reference material images produced by the imaging system 200 reveal internal features of the subject 204 that are represented by the densities of the two reference materials. The density images can be displayed to show these features. In a traditional approach to diagnosing a medical condition (such as a disease state), or more generally, diagnosing a medical event, a radiologist or physician would review a hard copy or displayed density image to identify features of interest. Such features might include lesions, the size and shape of particular anatomical structures or organs, and other features that would be identifiable in the image based on the skill and knowledge of the individual practitioner.

[0026] In one embodiment, imaging system 200 includes a control mechanism 208 that controls the movement of components, such as the rotation of gantry 102 and the operation of x-ray source 104. In certain embodiments, control mechanism 208 further includes an x-ray controller 210 configured to provide power and timing signals to x-ray source 104. Furthermore, control mechanism 208 includes a gantry motor controller 212 configured to control the rotational speed and / or rotational position of gantry 102 based on imaging requirements.

[0027] In certain embodiments, the control mechanism 208 further includes a data acquisition system (DAS) 214 configured to sample analog data received from the detector elements 202 and convert the analog data to a digital signal for subsequent processing. The DAS 214 may be configured to selectively aggregate analog data from a subset of the detector elements 202 into a so-called macro-detector, as described further herein. The data sampled and digitized by the DAS 214 is transmitted to a computer or computing device 216. In one example, the computing device 216 stores the data in a mass storage device or storage device 218. The storage device 218 may be, for example, a hard disk drive, a floppy disk drive, a compact disk read / write (CD-R / W) drive, a digital versatile disk (DVD) drive, a flash drive, and / or a solid-state storage drive.

[0028] Additionally, the computing device 216 provides instructions and parameters to one or more of the DAS 214, the X-ray controller 210, and the gantry motor controller 212 to control system operations (e.g., data acquisition and / or data processing). In certain exemplary embodiments, the computing device 216 controls system operations based on operator input. The computing device 216 accepts operator input including commands and / or scanning parameters, for example, by an operator console 220 operably coupled to the computing device 216. The operator console 220 may include a keyboard (not shown) or a touch screen to enable an operator to specify the commands and / or scanning parameters.

[0029] 2, more than one operator console 220 may be coupled to imaging system 200, for example, to input or output system parameters, request exams, graph data, and / or view images. Additionally, in certain embodiments, imaging system 200 may be coupled through one or more deployable wired and / or wireless networks (such as the Internet and / or virtual private networks, wireless telephone networks, wireless local area networks, wired local area networks, wireless wide area networks, wired wide area networks, etc.) to multiple displays, printers, workstations, and / or similar devices located locally or remotely within a facility or hospital or at entirely different locations.

[0030] In one embodiment, for example, imaging system 200 includes or is coupled to a Picture Archiving and Communication System (PACS) 224. In an exemplary embodiment, PACS 224 is further coupled to a remote system, such as a radiology information system, a hospital information system, and / or is coupled to an internal or external network (not shown) to allow an operator at another location to provide commands and parameters and / or access image data.

[0031] The computing device 216 uses operator-supplied and / or system-defined instructions and parameters to operate the table motor controller 226. The table motor controller 226 may control a patient table (such as the table 114), which may be a motorized table. Specifically, the table motor controller 226 may move the table 114 so that the subject 204 is properly positioned in the gantry 102 to acquire projection data corresponding to a target volume of the subject 204.

[0032] As previously mentioned, DAS 214 samples and digitizes the projection data acquired by detector elements 202. Image reconstructor 230 then performs high-speed reconstruction using the sampled and digitized x-ray data. While FIG. 2 illustrates image reconstructor 230 as a separate entity, in certain exemplary embodiments, image reconstructor 230 may form part of computing device 216. Alternatively, image reconstructor 230 may not be present in imaging system 200; instead, computing device 216 may perform one or more functions of image reconstructor 230. Furthermore, image reconstructor 230 may be located locally or remotely and may be operably connected to imaging system 200 using a wired or wireless network. In particular, in one exemplary embodiment, computing resources in a “cloud” network cluster may be used for image reconstructor 230.

[0033] In one embodiment, image reconstructor 230 stores the reconstructed image in storage device 218. Alternatively, image reconstructor 230 may transmit the reconstructed image to computing device 216 to generate patient information useful for diagnosis and evaluation. In some embodiments, computing device 216 may transmit the reconstructed image and / or patient information to a display or display device 232 communicatively coupled to computing device 216 and / or image reconstructor 230. In some embodiments, the reconstructed image may be transmitted from computing device 216 or image reconstructor 230 to storage device 218 for short-term or long-term storage.

[0034] Although a CT system is described as an example, it should be understood that the present technology can be used with other imaging modalities, such as X-ray imaging systems, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) systems, nuclear medicine imaging systems, positron emission tomography (PET) imaging systems, single photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) imaging systems, ultrasound imaging systems, and combinations thereof (e.g., multi-modality imaging systems such as PET / CT imaging systems or PET / MR imaging systems). The description of the CT imaging modality is provided merely as an example of one suitable imaging modality.

[0035] The multi-positioner holder can be used in imaging systems having a bull, as shown with respect to Figures 1A-2. In some embodiments, the multi-positioner holder can be used in combination with one or more of a plurality of interchangeable pads to adjust the tilt angle of the subject's head or limbs relative to a horizontal axis (e.g., see coordinate system 390 below).

[0036] 3A-3D, various views of an example multi-positioner holder 300 are shown. As noted above, in one embodiment, the head of a patient (such as subject 112 shown in FIG. 1A) can be positioned in multi-positioner holder 300 so that it is imaged while maintaining a desired tilt angle. CT imaging system 100 merely represents one exemplary use of multi-positioner holder 300. As such, multi-positioner holder 300 can be a non-limiting example of multi-positioner holder 116 of FIG. 1A.

[0037] The illustrated coordinate system 390 has three axes: an x-axis parallel to the horizontal direction, a y-axis parallel to the vertical direction, and a z-axis perpendicular to both the x-axis and the y-axis. For reference, coordinate system 390 is shown in Figures 3A to 6B and 8 to 10B. Multi-positioner holder 300 has a central axis 399 that lies within the xz plane.

[0038] The multi-positioner holder 300 includes a head cradle or cradle 302 capable of receiving a patient's head. The cradle 302 includes a base 304 with a first sidewall or first side 306 and a second sidewall or second side 308 extending from the base 304. An opening 396 is formed between the first side 306 and the second side 308. The base 304 includes a substantially flat surface or plane 328 within the opening 396 against which the patient's head can rest. In one embodiment, the cradle 302 can receive a patient's extremities. The first side 306 and the opposing second side 308 can extend from corresponding edges of the base 304, where the sides are curved and flatten as they flare upward. The first side 306 and the second side 308 can function as a boundary to prevent the patient from moving their head from the multi-positioner holder 300. The multi-positioner holder 300 includes a first end 392 and a second end 394. When the multi-positioner holder is positioned in a CT system (such as the CT imaging system 100 of FIG. 1A ), the first end 392 faces the table and the second end 394 faces the gantry. The cradle 302 includes a front curved surface 336 and a back curved surface 338. The multi-positioner holder 300 includes an outer surface 330 of the cradle 302. In one embodiment, the outer surface 330 is the outward-facing surface, e.g., the exterior, of the first side 306, the base 304, and the second side 308.

[0039] In one embodiment, the table attachment 310 can be contiguous with the base 304 of the first end 392 of the cradle 302. In one embodiment, the table attachment 310 can be inserted into a table mount (such as the opening 126 in FIG. 1B ) or other receptacle on the table. A first extension 322 of the table attachment 310 can extend angularly upward toward the cradle 302. In one embodiment, the table attachment 310 is physically coupled to a portion of the table that supports the patient's neck (such as the neck portion 128 in FIG. 1B ). In one embodiment, the cradle 302, the first extension 322, and the table attachment 310 are formed from carbon fiber. In one embodiment, the cradle 302, the first extension 322, and the table attachment 310 are inflexible (e.g., rigid) due to the carbon fiber. In one embodiment, the cradle 302 can include a face plate 326 attached to an outer surface 330. A lock and release mechanism, or mounting lock 332, of the table mount can secure the table attachment 310 to the table when the table attachment 310 is inserted into the table mount. For example, the mounting lock 332 can apply pressure to a bottom surface of the table mount (such as bottom surface 120 of opening 126 in FIG. 1B). In one embodiment, the mounting lock 332 is physically coupled to the table attachment 310 and comprises a different material (such as plastic, metal, rubber, and combinations thereof) compared to the cradle 302.

[0040] The first side 306 can include a first pair of slots 312, with the first slot 316a shown positioned above the second slot 318a. The second side 308 can include a second pair of slots 314, with the second pair of slots 314 positioned directly opposite the central axis 399 from the first pair of slots 312, with the first slot 316b shown positioned above the second slot 318b. In one example, a strap 320 can pass through the first slots 316a, 316b to immobilize the patient's head or limb when the patient's head or limb is positioned at a first angle. In another example, the strap 320 can pass through the second slots 318a, 318b to immobilize the patient's head or limb when the patient's head or limb is positioned at a second angle. The strap 320 can include strap ends 324 that are attached (e.g., secured) to a face member 326 of the outer surface 330. For example, the face material 326 of the cradle 302 can be a first material and the strap end 324 of the strap 320 can be a second material, with the first material being connected to the second material. As an example, the strap end 324 of the strap 320 and the face material 326 of the cradle 302 can be a hook and loop material (such as Velcro® or similar).

[0041] FIG. 3B shows a side view of the multi-positioner holder 300 as viewed from the z-axis. In some embodiments, the first side 306 and the overlapping second side 308 have a first dimension 333 that is greater than a second dimension 334. In other words, when viewed from the side, the first side 306 of the cradle 302 is wider near the base 304 and narrows as the side extends upward along the y-axis. In one embodiment, the first pair of slots 312 are located in a narrow upper portion of the first side 306, defined by dimension 337 and second dimension 334. The second pair of slots 314 are similarly located in the second side 308 (of FIG. 3A ). A third dimension 335 (e.g., along the y-axis) of the first side 306 may be slightly longer than the first dimension 333. When viewed from the side, the rear curved surface 338 of the second end 394 of the cradle 302 is perpendicular to the plane 328 of the base 304. Contrary to the rear curved surface 338, the front curved surface 336 is angled relative to the plane 328 (in FIG. 3A ) of the base 304. For example, the front curved surface 336 is inclined at approximately −45 degrees from perpendicular to the plane 328 of the base 304. In other examples, the front curved surface 336 may have a different shape.

[0042] In some embodiments, the mounting lock 332 includes a protrusion 346 that presses against the table bottom surface 120 (see, e.g., FIG. 1B ). The force of the protrusion 346 can prevent the multi-positioner holder 300 from accidentally being removed from the table. That is, the multi-positioner holder 300 can be fixedly attached to the table until the tab 348 is actuated, thereby moving the protrusion 346 away from the bottom surface 120, as shown by arrow 350. When the protrusion 346 is no longer pressed against the bottom surface 120, the multi-positioner holder 300 can be removed (e.g., removed) from the table. In this manner, the mounting lock 332 allows the multi-positioner holder 300 to be quickly removed from the table so that another holder can be attached for a subsequent patient.

[0043] FIG. 3C shows a third view of the multi-positioner holder 300 from the x-axis direction. In this view, the first side 306 and the second side 308 are curved, and the base 304 is substantially flat. When viewed from the x-axis, the cradle 302 is relatively narrow. For example, the height (e.g., third dimension 335) of the cradle 302 is greater than the width 356. In some embodiments, the multi-positioner holder 300 can be used with one or more pads from a plurality of pads, examples of which are illustrated and described below. In some embodiments, the outer surfaces of the plurality of pads have the same shape as the inner surfaces of the cradle 302, and the pads fit snugly inside the opening 396 formed by the first side 306, second side 308, and base 304 of the multi-positioner holder 300. In one embodiment, the interior surface of the cradle 302 can include a flat surface 328, a first interior surface 358 that constitutes the interior surface of the first side 306, and a second interior surface 360 ​​that constitutes the interior surface of the second side 308. A fastening material or first fastener 340 can be disposed (e.g., affixed) to the flat surface 328 of the base 304. In one embodiment, the first fastener 340 can be a material similar to the first material that forms the face material 326 of the exterior surface 330 of the cradle 302. In another embodiment, the first fastener 340 can be a material similar to the material that forms the strap end 324 of the strap 320.

[0044] An angled portion 344 of cradle 302 connects base 304 and first extension 322. Although angled portion 344 is curved like cradle 302, angled portion 344 is angled relative to base 304 and table attachment 310. A surface 354 of first extension 322 may be in surface contact with the mounting surface of the table (e.g., the surface surrounding opening 126 in FIG. 1B), while angled surface 352 of angled portion 344 is visible and may provide a support surface for the patient's neck or extremities.

[0045] FIG. 3D shows a fourth view of the multi-positioner holder 300 from the Y-axis direction. As can be seen in this fourth view, the first fastener 340 is positioned adjacent to the second end 394 of the cradle 302. In one embodiment, the first fastener 340 can be made of hook-and-loop material or the like. The pad can have an engaging fastener, which can be made of hook-and-loop material or the like. For example, the first fastener 340 of the multi-positioner holder can be attached to the second fastener of the pad (see, e.g., FIGS. 4B, 5B, 6B, etc.). Additionally or alternatively, the first fastener 340 can engage a strap (see, e.g., strap 914 in FIG. 9A) to secure the pad to the multi-positioner holder 300.

[0046] FIGS. 4A through 6B show first, second, and third examples of stacking pads, respectively. In one embodiment, the stacking pads or pads can be used alone or in combination (e.g., stacked one on top of the other) to support a patient's head or limbs. FIGS. 4A and 4B show an example of a first pad, i.e., a patient interface head pad 400, for positioning a patient's head at a first angle. FIGS. 5A and 5B show an example of a patient interface limb pad 500 for positioning a patient's limbs. In one example, the patient interface head pad 400 and the patient interface limb pad 500 can position a patient's body part at an angle of approximately 0°. FIGS. 6A and 6B show an example of an angled positioning pad 600 for increasing the tilt angle of the patient's head or limbs. In one example, the angled positioning pad can be a second pad for positioning a patient's head or limbs at a second angle different from the first angle. In one example, the second angle can be greater than 0° (e.g., 5°, 10°, or 15°). In another example, the patient interface head pad 400, the patient interface limb pad 500, and the angled positioning pad 600 may be color-coded for ease of use. For example, the patient interface head pad 400 may be a first color (e.g., green). The patient interface limb pad 500 may be a second color (e.g., blue) different from the first color. The angled positioning pad 600 may be an even different color (e.g., red). The color coding has the advantage of allowing a user (e.g., a physician or technician) to quickly select an appropriate stacking pad. In one example, the stacking pads may be formed from a foam material (e.g., rubber, polyethylene, polyurethane, or polystyrene foam). Stacking pads formed from other materials are also contemplated.

[0047] FIG. 4A is a front perspective view of a patient interface head pad 400. In one embodiment, the patient interface head pad 400 can be placed in a head holder of an imaging device (such as the multi-positioner holder 116 for the CT imaging system 100 shown in FIG. 1A). As another example, the pad can be placed in the opening 396 of the cradle 302 of the multi-positioner holder 300 shown in FIGS. 3A-3D. In yet another example, the patient interface head pad 400 can be placed directly on a patient table. In one embodiment, the patient interface head pad 400 can support the patient's head at a 0° angle during an examination. The patient interface head pad 400 has a central axis 499, which is located in the xz plane.

[0048] The patient interface head pad 400 includes a first pad cradle or cradle 402 that can receive a patient's head. The cradle 402 includes a first body or main body portion 404 having opposing first sidewalls extending therefrom. The opposing first sidewalls have a first side 406 and a second side 408. A pad opening 434 is formed between the first side 406 and the second side 408. The main body portion 404 has a substantially flat surface or plane 410 that can support a patient's head within the pad opening 434. The first side 406 and the second side 408 can extend from opposing edges of the main body portion 404. The patient interface head pad 400 includes a first end 412 and a second end 414. When the patient interface head pad is shaped to fit into the cradle of FIG. 1A and placed in the CT system, the first end 412 faces the table and the second end 414 faces the gantry.

[0049] In one embodiment, the dimensions of the patient interface head pad 400 include a first dimension 422 that is greater than a second dimension 424. In other words, the sides 406, 408 of the cradle 402 include a laterally wider first region 428 proximal to the body portion 404 and a laterally narrower second region 430, with the sides extending upward along the y-axis. The wider first region 428 forms a curved portion connecting the second region 430 of the sides 406, 408 and the body portion 404. A third dimension 426 of the cradle 402 (e.g., the height of the cradle) may be less than the first dimension 422 (e.g., the length of the cradle). In one embodiment, the opposing side walls and the body portion 404 may have a similar overall thickness. For example, the material thickness 432 of the first side 406, the second side 408, and the body portion 404 may be approximately the same thickness throughout the patient interface head pad 400. The body portion 404 of the patient interface head pad 400 has a width 435. In one example, the width 435 of the body portion 404 may be a similar dimension as the second dimension 424 of the sides 406, 408.

[0050] The patient interface head pad 400 includes an outer surface 420. In one example, the outer surface 420 is the outward-facing surface (e.g., exterior) of the first side 406, the body portion 404, and the second side 408. When the patient interface head pad 400 is placed in the multi-positioner, the outer surface 420 is in surface contact with the inner surface of the cradle 302. The inner surface of the pad includes a flat surface 410 and a side surface 418. A peripheral surface 438 joins the inner surface and the outer surface 420. In one example, the peripheral surface 438 meets the outer surface 420 at an acute angle. In some use cases, the peripheral surface 438 along the second end 414 can be approximately flush with the rear curved surface 338 of the multi-positioner holder 300.

[0051] 4B shows a bottom view 450 of the patient interface head pad 400. In particular, the bottom view 450 shows the patient interface head pad 400 from the second end 414. The bottom view 450 shows the side surface 418, the outer surface 420, and the peripheral surface 438 between the side surface 418 and the outer surface 420. When viewed from the X-axis, the pad opening 434 is U-shaped.

[0052] A recess 452 formed in the body portion underside 456 can form a depression into which a fastening material can be placed. In one embodiment, the fastening material can be a second fastener 454. In one embodiment, the recess 452 can be located adjacent the second end 414 of the cradle 402. In one embodiment, the second fastener 454 can be an engaging member that cooperates with a fastening material disposed inside the cradle of the multi-positioner holder (e.g., see FIGS. 3C-3D) or the angled positioning pad (e.g., see FIGS. 6A and 6B). For example, the second fastener 454 can make face-to-face contact with the first fastener 340 to secure the patient interface head pad to the multi-positioner holder 300. In one embodiment, the second fastener 454 can be formed of a hook-and-loop material or the like.

[0053] FIG. 5A is a front perspective view of a patient interface limb pad 500. In one embodiment, the patient interface limb pad 500 can be placed on a head holder of an imaging device (such as the multi-positioner holder 116 for the CT imaging system 100 shown in FIG. 1A). As another example, the patient interface limb pad 500 can be placed on the cradle 302 of the multi-positioner holder 300 shown in FIGS. 3A-3D. In yet another example, the patient interface limb pad 500 can be placed directly on a patient table. In one embodiment, the patient interface limb pad 500 can support a patient's limb at a 0° angle during an examination. The patient interface limb pad 500 has a central axis 599, which lies in the xz plane.

[0054] The patient interface limb pad 500 includes a limb pad cradle or cradle 502 that can receive a patient's limb. The cradle 502 includes a body portion 504 having a first sidewall or first side 506 and a second sidewall or second side 508 extending therefrom. A pad opening 534 is formed between the first side 506 and the second side 508. The body portion 504 includes a substantially flat surface or plane 510 that supports the patient's limb within the pad opening 534. The first side 506 and the opposing second side 508 extend from opposite edges of the body portion 504. The patient interface limb pad 500 includes a first end 512 and a second end 514. When the patient interface limb pad 500 is placed in the CT system, such as secured to the cradle of Figure 1A, it may be placed in a first orientation or a second orientation, for example, in the first orientation, the first end 512 faces the gantry, and in the second orientation, the first end 512 faces the table.

[0055] In one embodiment, the sides 506, 508 of the patient interface limb pad are generally trapezoidal when viewed along the z-axis. For example, the second side 508 defines a first side 542 with a first dimension 522 that is generally parallel to a second side 544 with a second dimension 524. The first dimension 522 is greater than twice the second dimension 524. The second side 508 includes a first side 546 with a third dimension 526. The first side 546 is disposed generally perpendicular to the first side 542 and the second side 544. The second side 508 of the patient interface limb pad 500 includes a second side 548 with a fourth dimension 550. The second side 548 is disposed at an acute angle relative to the first side 542 and an obtuse angle relative to the second side 544. The sides 506, 508 of the cradle 502 include a first region 528 that is closer to the main body portion 504 and a second region 530 that is further away from the main body portion 504 along the y-axis. In one embodiment, the width 532 of the main body portion 504 can be greater than the second dimension 524 and less than the first dimension 522 of the sides 506, 508.

[0056] The patient interface limb pad 500 includes a planar surface 510 of the body portion 504, a second inner surface 518 of a first region 528 of the sides 506, 508, a third inner surface 552 of a second region 530 of the sides 506, 508, and an outer surface 520. In one embodiment, the outer surface 520 is the outward-facing surface (e.g., exterior) of the first side 506, the body portion 504, and the second side 508. In one embodiment, the outer surface 520 is in surface contact with the inner surface of the cradle when the pad is placed in the multi-positioner. A peripheral surface 538 couples to the inner surfaces (e.g., the planar surface 510, the second inner surface 518, and the third inner surface 552) and the outer surface 520.

[0057] The peripheral surface 538 includes a ridge 554, an angled first surface 556, and an angled second surface 558. In some embodiments, the peripheral surface 538 along the first end 512 can be substantially flush with the front curved surface 336 of the multi-positioner holder 300. In some embodiments, the peripheral surface 538 along the second end 514 can be substantially flush with the rear curved surface 338 of the multi-positioner holder 300.

[0058] 5B shows an underside view 560 of the patient interface limb pad 500. The underside view 560 shows the patient interface limb pad 500 from the second end 514. The underside view 560 shows the second inner surface 518, the third inner surface 552, the outer surface 520, and the peripheral surface 538 therebetween.

[0059] In some embodiments, the cradle 502 and body portion 504 of the patient interface limb pad 500 can be similar to the cradle 402 and body portion 404 of the patient interface head pad 400. For example, the outer surfaces (e.g., outer surface 420, outer surface 520) have a similar shape, and the body portions 404, 504 are horizontal to the cradle sidewalls. In one embodiment, the patient interface limb pad 500 is formed so that at least a portion of the sidewalls have an irregular thickness. For example, the first side 506 and second side 508 can be formed to have a first thickness 562 in a first region 528 of the pad and increase to a thicker second thickness 566 in a second region 530. In other examples, the patient interface limb pad can be formed with walls having approximately the same (e.g., similar) material thickness throughout.

[0060] The cradle 502 has a U-shaped outer edge 570 and an irregular inner edge 572. The inner edge 572 is narrow near the main body portion 504, widens toward the tops 568 of the sides 506, 508, and is narrowest at a transition 584 between the first and second regions 528, 530 of the sides 506, 508. Correspondingly, the pad opening 534 can be approximately width 532 near the main body portion 504, narrow to a second width 574 at the transition 584, and widen to a third width 576 toward the tops 568 of the sides 506, 508.

[0061] A recess 578 formed in the body portion underside 580 can provide a depression into which a fastening material can be placed. In one embodiment, the fastening material can be a second fastener 582. The recess 578 can be located adjacent the second end 514 of the cradle 502. In one embodiment, the second fastener 582 can be made from the same or a similar material as the second fastener 454 and can similarly engage with a fastener located on the interior of the cradle of the multi-positioner holder and / or with a fastener located on the angled positioning pad (see, e.g., FIGS. 6A and 6B). For example, the second fastener 582 can make face-to-face contact with the first fastener 340 to secure the patient interface limb pad 500 to the multi-positioner holder 300.

[0062] FIG. 6A is a front perspective view of an angled positioning pad 600. In one embodiment, the angled positioning pad 600 can be placed on a head holder of an imaging device (such as the multi-positioner holder 116 for the CT imaging system 100 shown in FIG. 1A). As another example, the angled positioning pad 600 can be placed on the cradle 302 of the multi-positioner holder 300 shown in FIGS. 3A-3D. In yet another example, the angled positioning pad 600 can be placed directly on a patient table. In one embodiment, the angled positioning pad 600 can support a patient's head or extremities at a tilt angle 652 (see FIG. 6B) greater than 0° during an examination. The angled positioning pad 600 has a central axis 699 in the x-z plane.

[0063] The angled positioning pad 600 includes a second pad cradle or cradle 602 that can receive the patient's head or limbs. Additionally or alternatively, the angled positioning pad 600 can receive one or more of a patient interface head pad, a patient interface limb pad, and a second angled positioning pad, as shown in more detail in FIGS. 8A-10B . The cradle 602 includes a second body or body portion 604 having opposing second sidewalls extending therefrom. The opposing second sidewalls include a first side 606 and a second side 608. The first side 606 and the opposing second side 608 can extend from opposing edges of the body portion 604. A pad opening 636 is formed between the first side 506 and the second side 508. The body portion 604 includes an inner surface 610 that supports the patient or one or more additional pads within the pad opening 636. Body portion 604 further includes an exterior surface 620. In one embodiment, exterior surface 620 is the outward-facing surface of first side portion 606, body portion 604, and second side portion 608. A peripheral surface 638 joins interior surface 610 and exterior surface 620.

[0064] The angled positioning pad 600 includes a first end 612 and a second end 614. When the angled positioning pad 600 is placed on a CT system such as secured to the cradle of FIG. 1A , the angled positioning pad 600 can be configured to be positioned in a first orientation or a second orientation. For example, when configured in the first orientation, the first end 612 can face the gantry, and when configured in the second orientation, the first end 612 can face the table. In some use cases, the peripheral surface 638 can be substantially flush with the front curved surface 336 of the multi-positioner holder 300 across the first end 612. The peripheral surface 638 can be substantially flush with the rear curved surface 338 of the multi-positioner holder 300 at the second end 614 of the angled positioning pad 600.

[0065] The angled positioning pad 600 is formed to have a varying material thickness throughout. For example, the thickness of the body portion 604 of the pad can increase from the first end 612 to the second end 614. The thickness of the sides 606, 608 can increase from the top 646 of the cradle 602 toward the body portion 604.

[0066] A first recess 640 is formed in the body portion 604, forming a depression into which fastening material can be placed. In one embodiment, the fastening material can be a third fastener 642. In one embodiment, the first recess 640 can be located adjacent the second end 614 of the cradle 602. In one embodiment, the third fastener 642 can engage with similarly positioned members on the outer surface of the patient interface head pad 400 and the outer surface of the patient interface limb pad 500 (see, e.g., FIGS. 4B and 5B). For example, the third fastener 642 can be in flush contact with the second fastener 454 to secure the patient interface head pad 400 to the angled positioning pad 600. The third fastener 642 can be made of a hook-and-loop material or the like.

[0067] 6B shows a cross section 650 of the angled positioning pad 600. In particular, the cross section 650 illustrates an exemplary bevel angle 652 of the body portion 604 and the exemplary fastener. The cross section 650 shows that the body portion 604 increases in thickness from the first end 612 to the second end 614, e.g., at the bevel angle 652. The bevel angle 652 can support a patient's head or extremities at an angle greater than 0° during an examination. In one example, the bevel angle can be 15°.

[0068] In one embodiment, the angled locating pad 600 is generally trapezoidal when viewed along the z-axis. For example, the second side 608 defines a first side 654 having a first dimension 662 that is generally parallel to a second side 656 having a second dimension 664. The first dimension 662 is approximately twice as large as the second dimension 664. The second side 608 includes a first side 658 having a third dimension 666. The first side 658 is disposed generally perpendicular to the first side 654 and the second side 656. The second side 608 of the angled locating pad 600 includes a second side 660 having a fourth dimension 668. The second side 660 is disposed at an acute angle relative to the first side 654 and an obtuse angle relative to the second side 656. The second side 608 further includes an upper extension 670, which has a height in a fifth dimension 672 and a length in the second dimension 664. The upper extension 670 can be continuous with a lower portion 674 of the second side 608. The first side 606 includes an upper extension of the same configuration (e.g., 607 in FIG. 6A). In one embodiment, the upper extension is rectangular, which can provide additional support. In some embodiments, the upper extension can be shaped differently.

[0069] Cross section 650 shows the depression formed by first recess 640 and third fastener 642 disposed in first recess 640. Similarly, second recess 676 can be formed in first edge 654. An additional fastener 643 can be disposed in second recess 676. In one embodiment, first recess 640 and second recess 676 can be located adjacent second end 614 of the pad. In one embodiment, third fastener 642 can engage and secure second fastener 454 disposed on the underside of patient interface head pad 400 and second fastener 582 disposed on patient interface limb pad 500. Additional fastener 643 can be the same as or similar to second fastener 454 and second fastener 582. For example, the additional fastener 643 can engage with the first fastener 340 disposed on the cradle of the multi-positioner holder (see, eg, FIGS. 3C and 3D).

[0070] In one embodiment, the fastening material can include a fastener and a receiver. As an example, the first fastener 340 of the multi-positioner holder 300 can be the first fastening material, and the first fastening material is the fastener. The additional fastener 643 of the angled locating pad 600 can be the second fastening material, and the second fastening material is the receiver. For example, the receiver is a member that is opposed to the fastener and engages with the fastener. In such an example, the additional fastener 643 contacting the first fastener 340 couples (e.g., attaches or secures) the angled locating pad 600 to the multi-positioner holder 300. Similarly, as another example, the third fastener 642 of the angled locating pad 600 can be the first fastening material (e.g., another fastener). The second fastener 454 of the patient interface head pad 400 may be a second fastening material (e.g., another receiver). In such an example, the second fastener 454 contacting the third fastener 642 couples the patient interface head pad 400 to the angled positioning pad 600.

[0071] 7A, 7B, and 7C, a first state 700, a second state 725, and a third state 750 of a multi-positioner holder for a patient table used in combination with one or more stacking pads are shown, respectively. In one embodiment, the patient table can be the same as or similar to the table 114 shown in FIGS. 1A-1B. The multi-positioner holder can be the same as or similar to the multi-positioner holder 300 shown in FIGS. 3A-3D. The stacking pads can be the same as or similar to the patient interface head pad 400 shown in FIGS. 4A-4B and the angled positioning pad 600 shown in FIGS. 6A-6B. In one embodiment, these states are achieved by using the patient interface head pad 400 alone or in combination (e.g., stacking) with one or more angled positioning pads 600.

[0072] 7A, in a first state 700, the multi-positioner holder 702 can have a 0° angle 712. In this state, the multi-positioner holder 702 is aligned with the table 704 to which the table attachment 706 is physically coupled. In this manner, the patient's head 710 is aligned relative to the spine. In the first state 700, the multi-positioner holder 702 is being used in combination with a patient interface head pad 708.

[0073] 7B, in a second state 725, the multi-positioner holder 702 can have an angle 730 that is greater than zero. In one embodiment, the angle 730 is between 5 and 30 degrees. In some embodiments, the angle 730 is between 10 and 20 degrees. In one embodiment, the angle 730 is exactly equal to 15 degrees. In the second state 725, the multi-positioner holder 702 is used in combination with the patient interface head pad 708 and the first angled positioning pad 732.

[0074] The multi-positioner holder 702 can be adjusted from the first position 700 to the second position 725 by inserting a first angled positioning pad 732 between the patient interface head pad 708 and the interior of the cradle of the multi-positioner holder 300 (e.g., cradle 302 in FIG. 3A ). By doing so, the tilt of the patient's head 710 can be increased beyond the first position 700. This is desirable to avoid various artifacts that may occur during imaging due to dental treatment, etc.

[0075] 7C shows that in a third state 750, the multi-positioner holder 702 has an angle 755. Angle 755 is greater than zero and greater than angle 730. In one example, angle 755 is between 10 and 60 degrees. In some examples, additionally or alternatively, angle 730 is between 20 and 50 degrees. In one example, angle 755 is 30 degrees. In the third state 750, the multi-positioner holder 702 is used in combination with a patient interface head pad 708, a first angled positioning pad 732, and a second angled positioning pad 752. The second angled positioning pad 752 can be the same as or similar to the first angled positioning pad 732.

[0076] The multi-positioner holder 702 can be adjusted from the first state 700 or the second state 725 to the third state 750 by inserting the second angled positioning pad 752 under the patient interface head pad 708. For example, the second angled positioning pad 752 can be inserted below the patient interface head pad 708 and above the first angled positioning pad 732. As another example, the second angled positioning pad 752 can be inserted between the first angled positioning pad 732 and the interior of the cradle of the multi-positioner holder 702. In this manner, the tilt of the patient's head 710 can be increased relative to the positions in the first state 700 and the second state 725. As an example, one of the angles 712, 730, and 755 can be selected based on imaging of the patient's head 710 to best reduce artifacts.

[0077] In one example, the stacking pads can be secured in place by engaging fasteners (such as those shown in Figures 3C-D, 4B, 5B, and 6B). Straps may also be used to further secure the assembly, as shown in Figures 3A and 9A below.

[0078] Figures 8-10B show an exemplary configuration of a multi-position holder used in combination with one or more stacking pads. The exemplary configuration can be used with an imaging system having a patient table (such as the CT imaging system 100 including the table 114 shown in Figures 1A-2). The multi-positioner holder can be the same as or similar to the multi-positioner holder 300 shown in Figures 3A-3D. The stacking pads can be the same as or similar to one or more of the patient interface head pad 400 shown in Figures 4A-4B, the patient interface limb pad 500 shown in Figures 5A-5B, and the angled positioning pad 600 shown in Figures 6A-6B. Components of the exemplary configuration that are identical to components of the multi-positioner holder 300, the patient interface head pad 400, the patient interface limb pad 500, and the angled positioning pad 600 are numbered the same and will not be described again. As described above, in one embodiment, a patient (such as subject 112 in FIG. 1A ) can position a body part in multi-positioner holder 300 such that the body part is maintained at a desired tilt angle to be imaged. In an exemplary configuration, the tilt angle is achieved by using patient interface head pads 400 or patient interface limb pads 500, for example, in combination (e.g., stacked) with one or more angled positioning pads 600.

[0079] 8, a first exemplary configuration 800 includes a multi-positioner holder 300, an angled positioning pad 600, and a patient interface head pad 400. The exemplary configuration 800 includes a first end 802, a second end 804, and a central axis 899, which lies in the xz plane.

[0080] The angled positioning pad 600 is positioned on the cradle 302. The patient interface head pad 400 is positioned on the angled positioning pad 600. The first end 412 of the patient interface head pad 400 and the first end 612 of the angled positioning pad 600 are aligned with the first end 392 of the multi-positioner holder 300. The second end 414 of the patient interface head pad 400 and the second end 614 of the angled positioning pad 600 are aligned with the second end 394 of the multi-positioner holder 300. This configuration allows the stacking pad to be at a positive tilt angle with respect to the table. For example, the plane 410 of the patient interface head pad 400 can be at a tilt angle that is the sum of the tilt angle of the patient interface head pad 400 and the tilt angle of the angled positioning pad 600. In one example, the tilt angle shown in the exemplary configuration 800 can be greater than 0° and less than 30° (e.g., 15°). Other tilt angles are also contemplated.

[0081] In one embodiment, mounting lock 332 can secure multi-positioner holder 300 to a table. With multi-positioner holder 300 attached, a patient can lie on the table and place their head on exemplary configuration 800 from first end 802. Second end 804 faces the imaging device. Planar surface 410 can support the patient's head at an angle of inclination that is the sum of the angles of inclination of the stacking pads included in exemplary configuration 800. Planar surface 410, peripheral surface 438, and angled surface 352 can provide a support surface for the patient's neck.

[0082] The patient's head can be secured in place for imaging using straps 320. The straps 320 can pass through the first slots 316a, 316b to secure the patient's head when positioning it at the tilt angle achieved in the first exemplary configuration 800. In one example, the tilt angle of the first slots 316a, 316b can be the same or similar to the tilt angle of the angled positioning pad 600 and patient interface head pad 400 combination, e.g., 15°. In one example, the straps 320 can be secured to the multi-positioner holder 300 by attaching to the face material 326 of the outer surface 330.

[0083] 9A and 9B, a second exemplary configuration 900 includes a multi-positioner holder 300, a first angled positioning pad 600, a second angled positioning pad 906, and a patient interface head pad 400. In one embodiment, the second angled positioning pad 906 can be the same as or similar to the first angled positioning pad 600. For example, the second angled positioning pad 906 can achieve the same tilt angle as the first angled positioning pad 600. In other examples, the second angled positioning pad 906 can achieve a second tilt angle that is different from the first tilt angle. The second exemplary configuration 900 includes a first end 902 and a second end 904. Plane 916 illustrates a longitudinal plane cross section of the second exemplary configuration 900. This cross section is shown in FIG. 9B, which illustrates the tilt angle of the second exemplary configuration 900.

[0084] The first angled positioning pad 600 is disposed on the cradle 302, and the second angled positioning pad 906 is disposed on top of the first angled positioning pad 600. The patient interface head pad 400 is disposed on top of the second angled positioning pad 906. In one embodiment, a fastener connection 908 secures the first angled positioning pad 600 to the multi-positioner holder 300. In one embodiment, the fastener connection 908 can include a first fastener 340 (e.g., FIGS. 3C-3D) that is in face contact with a third fastener 642 (e.g., FIGS. 6A-6B). A fastener connection 910 secures the first angled positioning pad 600 to the second angled positioning pad 906. In one embodiment, fastener connection 910 can include an additional fastener 643 that interfaces with third fastener 642 (e.g., FIGS. 6A-6B ). Fastener connection 912 secures second angled positioning pad 906 to patient interface head pad 400. In one embodiment, fastener connection 912 can include third fastener 642 that interfaces with second fastener 454 (e.g., FIG. 4B ). Additionally or alternatively, strap 914 can secure multiple stacking pads to multi-positioner holder 300 in second exemplary configuration 900. For example, strap 914 can include at least a portion formed from a fastening material, such as a hook and loop, that engages fastener connection 912 and face material 326 of outer surface 330.

[0085] 9B is a cross-sectional view 950 of the second exemplary configuration 900. In the cross-sectional view 950, a cross-section taken along the z-axis is shown to illustrate an exemplary second tilt angle 952 achieved by the stacking pads positioned and combined with the multi-positioner holder 300. As with the first exemplary configuration 800, the stacking pads are positioned to achieve a positive tilt angle with respect to the table. For example, the first end 412 of the patient interface head pad 400 is aligned with the first end of the multi-positioner holder 300, with the first end of the stacking pad held therebetween. The plane 410 of the patient interface head pad 400 is oriented at a second tilt angle 952 that is the sum of the tilt angle of the patient interface head pad 400, the tilt angle of the angled positioning pad 600, and the tilt angle of the second angled positioning pad 906. In one example, the second tilt angle 952 can be greater than 0° and less than 45° (e.g., 30°). Other tilt angles are possible.

[0086] 10A and 10B illustrate a third exemplary configuration 1000. In contrast to FIGS. 8-9B, which illustrate one or more angled positioning pads in a first orientation to provide a positive tilt angle, the third exemplary configuration 1000 illustrates angled positioning pads in a second orientation to provide a negative tilt angle. The third exemplary configuration 1000 includes a multi-positioner holder 300, a first angled positioning pad 600, a second angled positioning pad 906, and a patient interface limb pad 500. The third exemplary configuration 1000 further includes a first end 1002 and a second end 1004. Plane 1006 illustrates a longitudinal plane cross section of the third exemplary configuration 1000. The cross section of FIG. 10B illustrates the tilt angle of the third exemplary configuration 1000.

[0087] 10A , the first angled positioning pad 600 is placed on the cradle 302, and the second angled positioning pad 906 is placed on top of the first angled positioning pad 600. The patient interface limb pad 500 is placed on top of the second angled positioning pad 906. When attached to the imaging device table, the first end 1002 of the third exemplary configuration 1000 faces the table and the second end 1004 faces the gantry. However, compared to the first exemplary configuration 800 and the second exemplary configuration 900, the stacking pads are reversed to achieve a negative tilt angle. For example, the first end 512 of the patient interface limb pad 500 and the first end 612 of the angled positioning pad 600 are aligned with the second end 394 of the multi-positioner holder 300. Similarly, the second end 514 of the patient interface limb pad 500 and the second end 614 of the angled positioning pad 600 are aligned with the first end 392 of the multi-positioner holder 300 .

[0088] 10B is a cross-sectional view 1050 of the third exemplary configuration 1000. The cross-sectional view 1050 is taken from the z-axis and illustrates an exemplary negative tilt angle 1052 achieved by the combined stacking pads placed in the multi-positioner holder 300 in an inverted orientation. The plane 510 of the patient interface head pad 400 is positioned at a negative tilt angle 1052 that is the sum of the tilt angle of the patient interface limb pad 500, the tilt angle of the angled positioning pad 600, and the tilt angle of the second angled positioning pad 906. A negative tilt angle may be desirable depending on the patient's imaging plan.

[0089] In one aspect, the multi-positioner holder can be used in combination with one or more pads to position and support a patient's head or limbs to achieve a discrete range of angles. The combination of the pads, color coding, and holder allows for quick, accurate, and optimal positioning of the patient's head or limbs. The technical effect of using the multi-positioner holder and optional pads is to enable an operator to repeatedly scan a target area while easily and consistently adjusting the tilt of the scanned object to minimize patient discomfort and reduce the incidence of pinching. This can improve the quality of medical imaging and improve patient outcomes.

[0090] The present disclosure provides support for a system. The system includes a support assembly for use with an imaging system, the support assembly including a cradle including a base and opposing sidewalls, and a plurality of pads configured to attach to the base within an opening formed between the opposing sidewalls, each pad of the plurality of pads supporting a head or limb of a subject being imaged at a different angle relative to the base. In a first embodiment of the system, an outer surface of the plurality of pads conforms to an inner surface of the cradle. In a second embodiment of the system, optionally including the first embodiment, the cradle has a width less than a length and a height greater than the length. In a third embodiment of the system, optionally including one or both of the first and second embodiments, a first pad of the plurality of pads has a first color and is shaped to support the head or limb at a first angle, and a second pad of the plurality of pads has a second color different from the first color and is shaped to support the head or limb at a second angle different from the first angle. A fourth embodiment of the system optionally includes one or more of the first through third embodiments, wherein the first pad has a first pad cradle including opposing first sidewalls and a first body portion, the first body portion being horizontal relative to a base of the cradle. A fifth embodiment of the system optionally includes one or more of the first through fourth embodiments, wherein the second pad has a second pad cradle including opposing second sidewalls and a second body portion, the opposing second sidewalls increasing in thickness toward the second body portion, the second body portion increasing in thickness from a first end to a second end. A sixth embodiment of the system optionally includes one or more of the first through fifth embodiments, wherein the opposing first sidewalls and the first body have a similar overall thickness. A seventh embodiment of the present system optionally includes one or more or each of the first to sixth embodiments, wherein at least a portion of the opposing first side walls have a non-uniform thickness.An eighth embodiment of the system optionally includes one or more of the first to seventh embodiments, wherein the opposing sidewalls further include a first sidewall and a second sidewall that is a mirror image of the first sidewall, the first sidewall having a first slot located directly above a second slot, the first slot being horizontal with respect to the base of the cradle, and the second slot being at an angle relative to the first slot.A ninth embodiment of the system optionally includes one or more of the first to eighth embodiments, wherein the angle of the second slot and the angle of inclination of a first pad of the plurality of pads are similar.

[0091] The present disclosure provides a support for a support assembly for use with an imaging system. The support assembly includes a cradle including a base and opposing sidewalls, and a plurality of pads configured to be attached to the cradle within an opening formed between the opposing sidewalls, wherein one or more of the plurality of pads are stacked on the cradle to achieve discrete angles within a range, a first pad of the plurality of pads having a first angle relative to the cradle base, and a second pad of the plurality of pads having a second angle relative to the cradle base. In a first embodiment of the system, the plurality of pads are formed from a foam material. In a second embodiment of the system, optionally including the first embodiment, the cradle is formed from carbon fiber, and fastening material is attached to an outer surface of the cradle. A third embodiment of the system optionally includes one or both of the first and second embodiments, and wherein a first fastener is disposed on an inner surface of the cradle, a second fastener is disposed on an underside of the first pad and an underside of the second pad, and a third fastener is disposed on an inner surface of the second pad.A fourth embodiment of the system optionally includes one or more of the first through third embodiments, and wherein the first pad or the second pad is secured to the cradle by surface contact between the first fastener and the second fastener, and the first pad is secured to the second pad by surface contact between the second fastener and the third fastener. A fifth embodiment of the system optionally includes one or more or each of the first to fourth embodiments, wherein the imaging system is one of a computed tomography (CT) imaging system, a positron emission tomography (PET) imaging system, a single photon emission CT (SPECT) imaging system, and a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) system.

[0092] The present disclosure provides support for a system. The system includes a patient table and a support assembly selectively coupled to the patient table, the support assembly including a cradle including a base and opposing sidewalls, and a plurality of pads configured to mount to the cradle within an opening formed between the opposing sidewalls. In a first embodiment of the system, a first orientation of a first pad of the plurality of pads relative to the patient table results in a positive tilt angle, and a second orientation of the first pad relative to the patient table results in a negative tilt angle. A second embodiment of the system optionally includes the first embodiment, and adjusts the tilt angle of a subject's head or limbs relative to a horizontal axis. A third embodiment of the system optionally includes one or both of the first and second embodiments, and further includes an angled surface, the angled surface supporting the subject's neck or limbs.

[0093] As used herein, elements or steps described in the singular and preceded by the words "a" or "an" should be understood as not excluding a plurality of elements or steps, unless the exclusion is expressly stated. Furthermore, references to "one embodiment" of the present invention do not exclude the existence of additional embodiments that also incorporate the recited features. Furthermore, unless expressly stated to the contrary, embodiments "comprising," "including," or "having" an element or elements having a particular characteristic may include additional elements that do not possess that characteristic. The terms "including" and "in which" are used as the plain-language equivalents of the terms "comprising" and "wherein," respectively. Furthermore, the terms "first," "second," and "third," etc., are used merely as labels and are not intended to impose numerical requirements or a specific positional order on objects.

[0094] This written description uses examples to disclose the invention, including the best mode, and also enables any person skilled in the art to practice the invention, including making and using any devices or systems, and performing any methods incorporated therein. The patentable scope of the invention is defined by the claims, and may include other examples that occur to those skilled in the art. Such other examples are intended to be within the scope of the claims if they contain structural elements that do not differ from the literal language of the claims, or equivalent structural elements that do not differ substantially from the literal language of the claims. [Explanation of symbols]

[0095] 100 CT System 112 Subject 114 Tables 122 First Side 302 Cradle 304 Base 306 Side 308 Side 316a Slot 318a Slot 326 Surface material 328 plane 330 Exterior 340 Fastener 358 Inside 360 Inside 396 Opening 400 Patient Interface Head Pad 402 Cradle 404 Main body 406 sides 408 sides 420 Exterior 454 Fastener 500 Patient Interface Limb Pads 504 Main body 506 Side 508 Side 520 Exterior 600 Angled Positioning Pad 602 Cradle 604 Main body 606 Side 608 Side 612 End 614 End 620 Exterior 642 Fastener 652 Tilt angle

Claims

1. 1. A system including a support assembly for use with an imaging system, comprising: The support assembly includes: a cradle including a base and opposing side walls; and a plurality of pads configured to be attached to the base within an opening formed between opposing side walls of the cradle, each pad of the plurality of pads supporting a head or limb of a subject being imaged at a different angle relative to the base; Including, Each of the plurality of pads includes a substantially flat surface, opposing side walls of each of the plurality of pads are disposed on both sides of the substantially flat surface, the opposing side walls of each pad have a height greater than a width of the substantially flat surface, and the subject's head or limbs are supported on the flat surfaces; wherein each pad of the plurality of pads extends substantially the entire length of the base of the cradle.

2. The system of claim 1 , wherein an outer surface of the plurality of pads conforms to an inner surface of the cradle.

3. The system of claim 1 , wherein the width of the cradle is less than the length of the cradle and the height of the cradle from the base of the cradle to the opposing side walls is greater than the length of the cradle.

4. 2. The system of claim 1, wherein a first pad of the plurality of pads has a first color and is shaped to support the head or limb at a first angle, and a second pad of the plurality of pads has a second color different from the first color and is shaped to support the head or limb at a second angle different from the first angle.

5. A system including a support assembly for use with an imaging system, comprising: The support assembly includes: a cradle including a base and opposing side walls; and a plurality of pads configured to be attached to the base within an opening formed between the opposing side walls, each pad of the plurality of pads supporting a head or limb of a subject being imaged at a different angle relative to the base; Including, a first pad of the plurality of pads having a first color and shaped to support the head or limb at a first angle; a second pad of the plurality of pads having a second color different from the first color and shaped to support the head or limb at a second angle different from the first angle; The first pad has a first pad cradle including opposing first sidewalls and a first body portion, the first body portion being horizontal to a base of the cradle.

6. 5. The system of claim 4, wherein the second pad has a second pad cradle including opposing second side walls and a second body portion, the opposing second side walls increasing in thickness toward the second body portion, and the second body portion increasing in thickness from the first end to the second end.

7. The system of claim 5 , wherein the opposing first sidewalls and the first body portion generally have similar thicknesses.

8. The system of claim 5 , wherein at least a portion of the opposing first sidewalls has a non-uniform thickness.

9. 2. The system of claim 1, wherein the opposing side walls of the cradle further include a first side wall and a second side wall that is a mirror image of the first side wall, the first side wall having a first slot located directly above a second slot, the first slot being horizontal with respect to the base of the cradle, and the second slot being at an angle with respect to the first slot.

10. 10. The system of claim 9, wherein the angle of the second slot and the angle of inclination of the first pad of the plurality of pads are similar.

11. 1. A support assembly for use with an imaging system, comprising: a cradle including a base and opposing side walls; and a plurality of pads configured to be attached to the cradle within an opening formed between the opposing side walls; Including, By stacking one or more of the pads on the cradle, a range of discrete angles is achieved; a first pad of the plurality of pads at a first angle relative to a base of the cradle; a second pad of the plurality of pads at a second angle relative to a base of the cradle; Each pad of the plurality of pads includes a recess, and a fastener is disposed in the recess; A support assembly in which adjacent pads stacked on the cradle are removably secured by respective fasteners.

12. The support assembly of claim 11 , wherein the plurality of pads are formed from a foam material.

13. The support assembly of claim 11 , wherein the cradle is formed from carbon fiber and has fastening material attached to an exterior surface of the cradle.

14. 12. The support assembly of claim 11, wherein a first fastener is disposed on an inner surface of the cradle, a second fastener is disposed on an underside of the first pad and an underside of the second pad, and a third fastener is disposed on an inner surface of the second pad.

15. 15. The support assembly of claim 14, wherein a surface contact between the first fastener and the second fastener secures the first pad or the second pad to the cradle, and a surface contact between the second fastener and the third fastener secures the first pad to the second pad.

16. 12. The support assembly of claim 11, wherein the imaging system is one of a computed tomography (CT) imaging system, a positron emission tomography (PET) imaging system, a single photon emission CT (SPECT) imaging system, and a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) system.

17. patient table, and a support assembly selectively coupled to the patient table, the support assembly comprising: a cradle including a base and opposing side walls; and a plurality of pads configured to be attached to the cradle within an opening formed between the opposing side walls; Including, the plurality of pads including patient interface head pads, patient interface limb pads, and angled positioning pads; the patient head interface pad includes two sides, each side extending from opposite sides of a body portion of the patient head interface pad, each side including a first region forming a curved portion joining the body portion and a second region extending upward from the first region, the first region being laterally wider than the second region; 10. A system wherein the patient interface limb pad includes two sides, each side extending from opposite sides of the body portion, each side of the two sides being trapezoidal when viewed in a z-direction perpendicular to the vertical axis.

18. 18. The system of claim 17, wherein a first orientation of a first pad of the plurality of pads relative to the patient table results in a positive tilt angle, and a second orientation of the first pad relative to the patient table results in a negative tilt angle.

19. 18. The system of claim 17, wherein the tilt angle of the subject's head or limbs is adjusted relative to a horizontal axis.

20. 20. The system of claim 17, wherein the cradle further comprises an angled surface, the angled surface supporting the neck or extremities of the subject.

Images