Temporarily attaching medical devices to a target support

Abstract

The present invention relates to the positioning of medical equipment during X-ray imaging. Temporary attachment of the medical equipment to a subject support 26 is provided to provide additional support for the medical equipment. A panel-like structure 12 is provided to be positioned between the structure of the subject support 32 and a covering mattress 34 or the like on which the subject is placed. Attachment interfaces 14 are provided on the edges of the panel, which can be used for temporary mounting of the equipment. The attachment interfaces can be formed as rail segments. The panel is radiolucent to allow X-ray imaging of the subject from an increased range of directions. The attachment interfaces can be radiopaque or radiolucent.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to the configuration of medical equipment during X-ray imaging, and more particularly to a mounting device for a subject support in medical X-ray imaging, an X-ray imaging system, and a method for providing a mounting interface for temporary mounting of a medical equipment on a subject support during X-ray imaging. [Background technology]

[0002] During interventions in a catheterization lab, medical x-ray imaging is used for various purposes, such as guidance during the intervention, i.e., intraoperative, or preoperative imaging. X-ray imaging is also used to evaluate outcomes or intermediate steps during surgery. During interventions in a catheterization lab, intravascular ultrasound (IVUS) catheters and wires, for example, for fractional flow reserve (FFR) and instantaneous fractional flow reserve (iFR) measurements, may also be used. These catheters and wires may be electrically interfaced with a patient interface module (PIM), which connects to the console via a cable. The PIM can be attached to the rails of an operating table in a catheterization lab using a clamp. However, the table rails do not need to be present on all sides of the table. US2004088793A1 relates to an arrangement for holding accessories to a patient support surface. Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0003] Therefore, it may be necessary to provide additional support for the medical device. [Means for solving the problem]

[0004] The object of the present invention is solved by the subject matter of the independent claims, further embodiments are incorporated in the dependent claims. It is noted that the below described aspects of the present invention also apply to a mounting device for a subject support in medical X-ray imaging, an X-ray imaging system and a method for providing a mounting interface for temporary mounting of a medical device on a subject support during X-ray imaging.

[0005] According to the present invention, there is provided a mounting device for a subject support in medical x-ray imaging. The device includes a retaining panel structure and an accessory rail connector. The accessory rail connector is configured as a mounting interface for temporary mounting of a medical device on the subject support during x-ray imaging. The retaining panel structure includes a flat body having a first surface on a first side and a second surface on a second side. The first surface is configured to abut a first load-bearing support surface, and the second surface is configured to abut a second load-bearing support surface. The flat body is configured to be secured between the first and second load-bearing support surfaces by a load present on the subject support. The first and second surfaces of the flat body face in opposite directions. The accessory rail connector is mechanically connected to the retaining panel structure. At least a portion of the retaining panel structure is x-ray transparent.

[0006] This provides the advantage that a section of the table rail is or can be provided around the entire periphery of the subject support, particularly when no fixed table rail is present. The flat body of the support panel structure, e.g., a relatively thin panel, can be temporarily slid under the patient and mattress. In this position, the panel is secured between the load-bearing support surfaces when a load is present on the subject support, such as the weight of a patient placed on a mattress or cushion placed on top of the patient support. The panel, potentially within the x-ray beam, is designed to be radio-transparent to avoid affecting x-ray image quality.

[0007] In this way, the target support can be provided without, or at least with, fewer rail segments arranged around its edges.

[0008] According to one example, the holding panel structure is provided as a holding panel, at least a central portion of which is made of an X-ray transparent material.

[0009] In the alternative, the flat body structure of the support panel structure is provided as a support frame having at least two lateral frame segments and, for example, a hollow middle or central portion therebetween.

[0010] The two frame segments may also have a connecting edge frame segment on the side where the accessory rail connector is provided.

[0011] The two frame segments may also have a connecting edge frame segment on the side opposite the side on which the accessory rail connector is provided.

[0012] The frame segment defines a first surface and a second surface.

[0013] In the following, the retaining panel structure may also be referred to as a retaining panel.

[0014] According to one example, the retention panel structure is configured to provide for temporary attachment of the mounting device to the target support in a one-handed operation, in other words, the mounting device may be advantageously attached to and detached from the target support using only one (free) hand.

[0015] According to one example, the retention panel structure and associated rail connectors are configured to provide a clamp-less mounting arrangement.

[0016] According to one example, the retaining panel structure provides a single mount for the attachment device.

[0017] According to one example, the support panel structure has a flat panel at a first end thereof, the panel configured to be secured between two support surfaces of the target support by an external load placed on the target support, and an accessory rail connector mechanically connected to the support panel structure at a connection region located at a second end opposite the first end.

[0018] According to one example, the flat body structure is dimensioned to be secured between the load-bearing support surfaces when an external load is present on the target support and while the medical device is temporarily attached to the rail connector.

[0019] According to one example, the retention panel structure is provided as a flat insert configured to be inserted between an upper, rigid target support surface and a cushion cover. In this example, the external load may be a patient resting on the cushion cover of the patient support during a medical procedure, and the flat insert panel is dimensioned to be properly held in place by the patient's weight while the medical device is temporarily attached to the rail connector. For example, the flat insert can be easily slid under the mattress of the patient support when the patient is on it, thereby securing the attachment device between the load-bearing support surfaces by the patient's weight.

[0020] According to one example, the accessory rail connector and the retaining panel structure are permanently connected.

[0021] The present invention also provides an X-ray imaging system. The system includes an X-ray imaging device with an X-ray source and an X-ray detector. The system further includes a subject support having an upper table structure surface and a subject support surface disposed on the table structure surface. The system further includes a mounting device according to one of the previous embodiments. For temporary mounting, the holding panel structure is at least partially disposed between the upper table structure surface and the subject support surface, such that the accessory rail connector provides a mounting interface for temporary mounting of medical equipment on the subject support during X-ray imaging.

[0022] According to the present invention there is also provided a method for temporarily attaching a medical device to a subject support during X-ray imaging, the method comprising the steps of: In a first step, a mounting device is provided, wherein a holding panel structure having a flat body and an attached rail connector is mechanically connected to the holding panel structure and configured as a mounting interface for temporary mounting of a medical device on a subject support during x-ray imaging, at least a portion of the holding panel structure being x-ray transparent. - In a second step, while a load is present on the target support, a retaining panel structure is secured between a first load-bearing support surface of the target support and a second load-bearing support surface of the target support.

[0023] According to one aspect, a method for temporarily attaching a medical device to a subject support is provided. A panel-like structure is provided to be placed between the structure of the subject support and a covering mattress or the like on which the subject is placed. A mounting interface is provided on the edge of the panel, and this interface can be used to temporarily mount the device. The mounting interface can be formed as a rail segment. The panel is radiolucent to enable x-ray imaging of the subject from an increased range of directions. The mounting interface can be radiopaque or radiolucent.

[0024] These and other aspects of the invention will be apparent from and elucidated with reference to the embodiments described hereinafter.

[0025] Exemplary embodiments of the present invention are described below with reference to the following drawings: [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0026] [Figure 1] 1 shows a schematic cross-section of an example of a mounting device for subject support in medical X-ray imaging. [Figure 2] 2 shows a schematic top view of the example of FIG. 1. [Figure 3] 1 shows a schematic cross-section of a mounting device primarily mounted to a target support; [Figure 4] 4 shows a schematic top view of the example of FIG. 3. [Figure 5A] 1 shows a diagram of a mounting device and support structure in the context of an X-ray imaging system. [Figure 5B] 1 shows a diagram of a mounting device and support structure in the context of an X-ray imaging system. [Figure 5C] 1 shows a diagram of a mounting device and support structure in the context of an X-ray imaging system. [Figure 6] 1 illustrates steps of an example method for providing a mounting interface for temporary mounting of a medical device on a subject support during X-ray imaging. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0027] Specific embodiments will now be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. In the following description, like drawing reference numbers are used for like elements in different drawings. Matters defined herein, such as detailed configurations and elements, are provided to facilitate a comprehensive understanding of the exemplary embodiments. Additionally, well-known functions or configurations will not be described in detail since they would obscure the embodiments in unnecessary detail. Furthermore, phrases such as "at least one of," when preceding a list of elements, modify the entire list of elements, and do not modify individual elements of the list.

[0028] The term "subject" may also be referred to as an individual. A subject may also be referred to as a patient, although it should be noted that this does not imply that any disease or disorder actually exists in the subject.

[0029] In intervention-guided treatments, for example, for coronary or peripheral interventions in a catheterization lab, catheters may be inserted into the body's arteries and pushed to the appropriate location by a physician. In addition to fixed, integrated systems, there are also "mobile" cart-based solutions that do not have underfloor cables but rather have a direct connection from the patient bed to a mobile cart-based PC. The clinical context for the use of catheters and wires is those parts of the body that experience limited oxygenation due to restricted blood flow. This can be the heart ("coronary arteries"), but can also be the limbs ("peripheral") or organs. The restricted blood flow may be caused by a localized narrowing ("stenosis") of a blood vessel, and diagnosis and treatment aim to identify and remove the narrowing. Classification diagnosis and treatment may be performed under X-ray, but is limited due to the 3D nature of the problem combined with 2D imaging. Furthermore, contrast agents must be added to the blood flow to visualize the vessels, which can be harmful to the patient. Additionally, the general trend is to minimize the amount of X-rays applied for the health of both the patient and the physician. Intravascular ultrasound (IVUS) and FM (FFR / iFR) modalities allow physicians to reduce the use of X-rays while still providing a diagnosis.

[0030] The system consists of a sterile, disposable guidewire or catheter that measures pressure from within a vessel (FFR / iFR) or images using ultrasound (IVUS). The disposable connects to a box at the table edge, a patient interface module (PIM), from which it electrically interfaces with the rest of the system. The PIM itself may be attached to a rail using a holster with a clamp.

[0031] Since disposable cable lengths may be limited, the PIM according to the present invention may be advantageously placed in close proximity to the vascular access point. This applies not only to the classical femoral access, but also to the increasingly popular radial access sites (which have a lower risk of complications), as well as the so-called brachial and jugular access sites used especially for peripheral interventions.

[0032] By attaching the mounting device via a retaining panel structure anywhere along the edge of the table, mounting rails can be made available on the full surface area of ​​the table, not just near the lower half of the body. Also, for hybrid control room tables, rail space is no longer limited to table controls only. For office-based lab (OBL) tables, the mounting device provides this option of rails when no rails are available at all.

[0033] The mounting device therefore provides flexible and temporary mounting of medical devices such as PIMs, thereby avoiding the need for such devices to be bagged and placed in a sterile field on the patient. The mounting device therefore provides convenience, which means fewer workflow interruptions. The temporarily attached rail acts as a mechanical anchor for the PIM. If the cable between the PIM and the console is stepped on, the anchoring function prevents possible rupture of the catheter access site.

[0034] In another example, the equipment temporarily attached to the mounting device may be a touch screen module (TSM). The TSM device may be used in a catheterization lab, for example, to control X-ray imaging parameters, view acquired X-ray images, and / or set X-ray collimation devices such as shutters and wedges. By attaching the TSM by means of the mounting device as disclosed herein, the TSM device can be quickly attached to a target support when needed by sliding the flat panel of the mounting device between load-bearing support surfaces. Thus, placement of the TSM can be performed in a flexible manner along the edge of the patient support, thereby allowing the TSM to be optimally positioned within the physician's field of view regardless of the vascular access point at which the physician is present.

[0035] Furthermore, the TSM can be easily removed during portions of the procedure when optimal patient access is required without being hindered by the presence of a relatively bulky TSM.

[0036] The X-ray translucent panel does not affect the X-ray image and is thin enough (a few mm) to not affect the comfort of the patient on the table. The rail may have the dimensions of the table rail but can be made of the same material as the panel (one piece). The surface area of ​​the panel is large enough to allow the panel to remain in place if a load is present on the object support, such as an object on a table, while the medical device is temporarily attached to the mounting rail. For example, the panel may have a width of 150 mm (the longitudinal or "long" dimension of the patient support) and a height of 400 mm (the transverse or "short" dimension of the patient support). After use, the panel can be stored and cleaned. Because the mounting device can be located outside the sterile field, the same rules and regulations apply as for PIMs and other rail-mounted devices. Uses of this device can include, but are not limited to, mounting an IVUS / FFR PIM or a touchscreen module (TSM) as described above.

[0037] FIG. 1 schematically illustrates a cross-section of an example mounting device 10 for a subject support in medical x-ray imaging. The mounting device 10 includes a holding panel structure 12 and an accessory rail connector 14. The accessory rail connector 14 is configured as a mounting interface 16 for temporary mounting of medical equipment on a subject support during x-ray imaging. The holding panel structure 12 includes a flat body 18 having a first surface 20 on a first side and a second surface 22 on a second side. The first surface 20 is configured to abut a first load-bearing support surface (see FIG. 2 ), and the second surface 22 is configured to abut a second load-bearing support surface (see FIG. 2 ) such that the flat body is secured between the first and second load-bearing support surfaces. The first and second surfaces 20 and 22 face in opposite directions. The accessory rail connector 14 is mechanically connected to the holding panel structure 12. At least a portion of the holding panel structure 12 is x-ray transparent.

[0038] For example, the central region is radiolucent.

[0039] The term "radiotransparency" refers to such low x-ray attenuation behavior that it is barely or not visible at all on an x-ray image made of an object in the area where the support panel structure is located. The term "radiotransparency" is also referred to as x-ray translucency.

[0040] Optionally, as shown in FIG. 1, the retaining panel structure is provided as a retaining panel, at least a central portion of which is made of an X-ray transparent material.

[0041] In an alternative embodiment, not shown, the flat body structure of the support panel structure is provided as a support frame having at least two transverse frame segments.

[0042] The frame portion can be radiopaque, eg radio-opaque, while the middle or central portion (open or hollow) is radiolucent.

[0043] FIG. 2 shows a schematic top view of the example of FIG.

[0044] The accessory rail connector 14 is also referred to as an accessory connector or an accessory mount.

[0045] In one example, the mounting device 10 consists of a retaining panel structure and an associated rail connector. In other words, the mounting device has only these two (functional) elements.

[0046] Optionally, the retaining panel structure 12 is configured to provide temporary attachment of the mounting device 10 to a target support in a one-handed operation.

[0047] The term "one-handed operation" refers to an installation and removal (or dismounting) procedure that requires, i.e., can be performed by using, only one hand. One-handed operation is also referred to as single-handed operation.

[0048] In one example, a single-seater mount is provided by sliding a plate between the top of the support structure and the mattress of the target support, which may be done with the patient on the mattress present.

[0049] In one example, a single-seater mount is provided by lifting the mattress, placing the plate, and then replacing the mattress.

[0050] Optionally, the support panel structure 12 and associated rail connectors 14 are configured to provide a clamp-less mounting arrangement.

[0051] The holding panel structure 12 and the associated rail connector 14 are provided as additional clamp-less components. Optionally, the mounting device 10 does not have any other (additional) clamps or mounting elements. The holding panel structure 12 provides the complete mounting. Thus, the mounting device 10 is provided to be clamp-less. The mounting device 10 does not have any auxiliary or secondary holding devices / elements.

[0052] Optionally, the retaining panel structure 12 provides a single mount for the mounting device 10 .

[0053] No other support or attachment means are provided other than the retaining panel structure. A single mount may also be referred to as a sole mount or one-piece mount. 3 and 4, the support panel structure 12 optionally has a first end 24 configured to be positioned between two support surfaces of a target support 26. The accessory rail connector 14 is mechanically connected to the support panel structure 12 within a connection region 28 located on a second end 30 opposite the first end. The first end 24 is also referred to as the free end or front end, and the second end 30 is also referred to as the connecting end or back end.

[0054] In one example, the accessory rail connector 14 is mechanically connected to the holding panel structure 12 at a connection area, which is radiolucent at least in an area opposite the connection area.

[0055] Optionally, the support panel structure 12 is provided as a flat insert configured to be secured between the upper rigid subject support surface 32 and the cushion cover 34 while a load is present on the subject support 26.

[0056] In one example, the flat insert has a height (or thickness) in the range of less than 20 mm, preferably less than 10 mm.

[0057] In one example, the flat insert is dimensioned to be properly held in place when a patient is present on top of the support and while the medical device is temporarily attached to the rail connector. For example, the panel may have a height in the range of 300 mm to 500 mm, such as 400 mm. Further, the flat insert may have a width in the range of 100 mm to 300 mm, such as 150 mm or 200 mm.

[0058] 3 shows a schematic cross-section of the attachment device 10 temporarily mounted to an object support 26. The support panel structure 12 is placed above an upper rigid object support surface 32, i.e., on a table, and below a cushion cover 34, extending to the left in the figure to provide an accessory rail connector 14. An object 35 is placed on the cushion cover 34. By way of example, a patient interface module 36 is attached to the accessory rail connector 14.

[0059] A top view of the example of Figure 3 is shown in Figure 4. The retention panel structure 12 is positioned below the cushion cover 34 and extends to the side to provide an accessory rail connector 14 to which the patient interface module 36 is attached.

[0060] Optionally, as shown in Figures 3, 4 and 5A, 5B and 5A, for attachment of the attachment device 10 to the target support 26, the retention panel structure 12 is configured to be insertable between the upper rigid target support surface 32 and the cushion cover 34 of the target support 26.

[0061] In one example, the support panel structure 12 is configured to be positioned between a table structure surface of a target support and a target support surface disposed above the table structure surface.

[0062] Optionally, the accessory rail connector 14 and the retaining panel structure 12 are permanently connected.

[0063] Optionally, the accessory rail connector 14 and the retaining panel structure 12 are made as one piece.

[0064] Optionally, the mounting device 10 has a hybrid structure: the retaining panel structure 12 has a first, wireless, transparent material, and the accessory rail connector 14 has a second material that is different from the first material.

[0065] Optionally, the second material is radiopaque.

[0066] Optionally, the accessory rail connector 14 and the retaining panel structure 12 are both radiolucent. In another option, the accessory rail connector 14 and the retaining panel structure 12 are made of the same material.

[0067] The manufacturing process for this device (single material, one part) may be casting of an X-ray opaque polymer.

[0068] Optionally, accessory rail connector 14 is configured to provide an alternative rail to the edge of the target support table, which may also be referred to as an auxiliary rail, replacement rail, or supplemental rail.

[0069] In one example, an accessory rail connector has a rail segment with a cross section having a top portion for an overlapping hanging portion of a medical device mount and a front portion for abutting a support portion of a medical device mount.

[0070] The mounting interface may also be referred to as a "mounting rail," "mounting rail," or "rail."

[0071] 5A, 5B, and 5C show diagrams of the mounting apparatus and support structure in the context of an X-ray imaging system 50. Optionally, the X-ray imaging system 50 includes an X-ray imaging device 52 having an X-ray source 54 and an X-ray detector 56. Additionally, the X-ray imaging system 50 includes a subject support 58 having an upper table structure surface 60 and a subject support surface 62 disposed on top of the table structure surface. Additionally, the X-ray imaging system 50 includes an example of a mounting apparatus 10 according to one of the examples described above. For temporary mounting, the holding panel structure is at least partially secured between the upper table structure surface 60 and the subject support surface 62, whereby the accessory rail connector 14 provides a mounting interface for temporary mounting of medical equipment on the subject support during X-ray imaging.

[0072] In one example, the target support surface 62 is a mattress.

[0073] In one example, a patient interface module PIM 64 is temporarily attached to the accessory rail connector 14 during x-ray imaging. In another example, a touch screen module is temporarily attached to the accessory rail connector 14 during x-ray imaging.

[0074] 5A shows the target support surface 62, i.e., mattress, being elevated, and the support panel structure 12 positioned on the upper table structure surface 60, i.e., on the rigid portion of the target support. Accessory rail connectors 14 are provided near the lateral regions of the target support.

[0075] 5B shows the target support surface 62, i.e., the mattress, lowered again, thus retaining the support panel structure 12 between the table structure and the mattress. A patient interface module 64 is attached to the accessory rail connector 14.

[0076] 5C shows the configuration ready for use in an intervention. The subject support surface 62 is covered with a cloth 66 or drape, for example a sterile cloth. The patient interface module 64 can be covered by the cloth 66.

[0077] 6 illustrates steps of an example method 100 for temporarily attaching a medical device to a subject support during X-ray imaging. The method 100 comprises the following steps: In a first step 102, also referred to as step a), a mounting device is provided. The mounting device has a holding panel structure with a flat body and an attached rail connector mechanically connected to the holding panel structure and configured as a mounting interface for temporary mounting of a medical device on a subject support during X-ray imaging. At least a portion of the holding panel structure is radiolucent. - In a second step 104, also referred to as step b), the support panel structure is secured between a first load-bearing support surface of the target support and a second load-bearing support surface of the target support while a load is present on the target support.

[0078] Hereafter, an accessory rail connector can be used to attach the medical device (not shown in FIG. 6).

[0079] It should be noted that the embodiments of the present invention are described with reference to different subject matters. In particular, some embodiments are described with reference to method-type claims, and other embodiments are described with reference to apparatus-type claims. However, those skilled in the art will understand from the above and below description that, unless otherwise specified, any combination of features belonging to one type of subject matter, as well as any combination between features relating to different subject matters, is disclosed in the present application. However, all features can be combined to provide a synergistic effect that is greater than the simple sum of the features.

[0080] While the invention has been illustrated and described in detail in the drawings and foregoing description, such illustration and description are to be considered illustrative or exemplary and not restrictive. The invention is not limited to the disclosed embodiments. Other variations to the disclosed embodiments can be understood and effected by those skilled in the art in practicing the claimed invention, from a study of the drawings, the disclosure, and the dependent claims.

[0081] In the claims, the word "comprise" does not exclude other elements or steps, and the indefinite article "a" or "an" does not exclude a plurality. A single processor or other unit may fulfill the functions of several items recited in the claims. The mere fact that certain measures are recited in mutually different dependent claims does not indicate that a combination of these measures cannot be used to advantage. Any reference signs in the claims should not be interpreted as limiting the scope.

Claims

1. 1. A mounting device for a subject support in medical X-ray imaging, said device comprising: a retaining panel structure; With the included rail connector, and the accessory rail connector is configured as a mounting interface for temporary mounting of a medical device on a subject support during x-ray imaging; the support panel structure comprises a flat body structure having a first surface on a first side and a second surface on a second side, the first surface and the second surface facing in opposite directions; the first surface is configured to abut a first component of the target support, the second surface is configured to abut a second component of the target support, the second component being disposed above the first component, and the flat body is configured to be fixed between the first and second components by a load present on the second component; the accessory rail connector is mechanically connected to the retention panel structure; At least a portion of the support panel structure is X-ray transparent. Mounting device.

2. The mounting device of claim 1 , wherein the retaining panel structure is provided as a retaining panel, at least a central portion of the retaining panel being made of an X-ray transparent material.

3. 3. The mounting device of claim 1 or 2, wherein the retaining panel structure is configured to provide temporary attachment of the mounting device to the target support in a one-handed operation.

4. 4. The mounting arrangement of claim 1, 2 or 3, wherein the retention panel structure and the associated rail connectors are configured to provide a clampless mounting arrangement.

5. 5. A mounting arrangement according to any preceding claim, wherein the retaining panel structure provides a single mount for the mounting arrangement.

6. the retention panel structure having a flat insert portion configured to be secured between the first and second components and a connection region configured to mechanically connect the accessory rail connector; Mounting device according to any one of claims 1 to 5.

7. 7. The upper subject mounting apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the first component is a table of the subject support and the second component is a cushion cover.

8. 8. A mounting device according to any preceding claim, wherein the flat body structure has a height in the range of 300mm to 500mm and a width in the range of 100mm to 300mm.

9. 9. The mounting arrangement of claim 1, wherein the accessory rail connector and the retaining panel structure are permanently connected.

10. 10. A mounting arrangement according to any preceding claim, wherein the accessory rail connector and the retaining panel structure are made as a single unit.

11. 11. The mounting device of claim 1, wherein the mounting device has a hybrid structure, the retention panel structure having a first wireless transparent material and the accessory rail connector having a second material different from the first wireless transparent material.

12. 12. The mounting device of claim 1, wherein the accessory rail connector is configured as an alternative rail provided on an edge of the first component of the target support.

13. an x-ray imaging device having an x-ray source and an x-ray detector; an object support having an upper table structure surface and an object support surface disposed above the table structure surface; A mounting device according to any one of claims 1 to 12; In an X-ray imaging system having For temporary mounting, the retention panel structure is at least partially secured between the upper table structure surface and the subject support surface, whereby the accessory rail connector provides a mounting interface for temporary mounting of medical equipment on the subject support surface during x-ray imaging. X-ray imaging system.

14. 14. The X-ray imaging system of claim 13, further comprising a medical device temporarily attached to the subject support, the medical device comprising a patient interface module (PIM) or a touch screen module (TSM).

15. 1. A method for temporarily attaching a medical device to a subject support during x-ray imaging, comprising: providing a mounting apparatus having a retaining panel structure having a flat body with a first surface on a first side and a second surface on a second side, and an attached rail connector mechanically connected to the retaining panel structure and configured as a mounting interface for temporary mounting of a medical device on a subject support during x-ray imaging, wherein the first surface and the second surface are oppositely facing, the first surface configured to abut a first component of the subject support, and the second surface configured to abut a second component of the subject support, the second component being disposed above the first component, and at least a portion of the retaining panel structure is x-ray transparent; securing the retention panel structure between the first and second components while a load is present on the second component; A method having the following.

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