Patient movement training device

Abstract

A training device for training a patient who will undergo a medical procedure that requires them to hold still for a period of time includes a handheld device having a motion sensor and a display, where a processor detects movement during an interactive portion of the training that includes visual information based on the medical procedure the patient will undergo and provides feedback to the patient as to whether they are still holding still sufficiently.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention generally relates to a training device, method, and computer program product for training patients scheduled to undergo non-sedative, mildly sedative, or local sedative medical procedures, as well as a movement guidance device for use during such procedures.

Background Art

[0002] In medical treatment, it is often preferable for the patient to be conscious, i.e., not to use light or local sedatives or anesthetics during the treatment, for example, to be able to provide instructions or to prevent potentially harmful side effects of anesthesia. Receiving medical treatment can already be a burdensome experience for the patient, especially when the treatment is carried out while the patient is conscious. Anxiety about the disease or the treatment itself or its outcome can increase the stress level, especially in the case of pediatric patients. In many medical procedures, the patient needs to be stationary (i.e., lying down, sitting, or still) to avoid complications or adverse outcomes of the treatment. Anxiety, of course, is unpleasant for the patient, but it can also affect the final result or change the optimal workflow of the medical procedure. For example, in some cases, when the patient feels stressed, the opportunity for movement during the treatment increases, or the treatment needs to be interrupted until the patient calms down.

[0003] For example, during medical imaging procedures, any movement of the patient, or at least part of the patient being imaged, can degrade the image quality of the scan and typically result in motion artifacts. Depending on the severity of the motion artifacts and the diagnostic issues at hand, several consequences may arise when movement occurs. The image quality may be suboptimal, which can make it more difficult for the radiologist to accurately interpret the scan and provide an accurate diagnosis (the radiologist may even make a misdiagnosis). In those cases, it may be necessary to repeat the medical procedure or part of it, extend the total procedure time, or reschedule the patient, and the patient may need to be sedated with an anesthetic during the new procedure.

[0004] Many medical imaging procedures involve patients being transported to a narrow, tunnel-like area for the procedure, which can induce more stress due to claustrophobia and / or the loss of (visual) contact with medical personnel.

[0005] This is especially true in the case of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans. To successfully complete an MRI examination, the patient must enter a narrow bore inside a large machine while being confined within the imaging coil, and lie still during the scan, which typically lasts 10 to 60 minutes. During the examination, the MRI machine starts and stops abruptly, generating very loud jarring noises (up to 118 dB, comparable to the volume of thunder). All of this causes anxiety in many patients, especially children, and often results in suboptimal or aborted scans.

[0006] It is known that anxiety can be reduced when patients are more aware of and knowledgeable about the procedures they are scheduled to undergo; therefore, it is desirable for patients to receive appropriate explanations and / or training before the procedure. However, this requires time from a specialist or dedicated trainer, which is costly and time-consuming. In addition, such training tends to be very technical, non-intuitive, and difficult to understand for many patients, especially pediatric patients.

[0007] Alternatively, the training may be provided as a film that can be viewed at home or in the hospital before the procedure. This has the advantage of not requiring medical or support personnel. The information provided may also be tailored to the intended audience; for example, a more medical and serious explanation for adults, but a fun cartoon for children. However, in these cases, the patient passively absorbs the information, and since it is a one-way flow of information without feedback, there is no check to see whether the information is understood. [Overview of the Initiative] [Problems that the invention aims to solve]

[0008] Therefore, it would be advantageous if training devices were available that allow patients to experience, in an intuitive, interactive, and clear manner, how movement affects their medical treatment experience and how it can help them minimize movement. [Means for solving the problem]

[0009] Embodiments of the present invention relate to a training device for training a patient scheduled to undergo a medical procedure that requires the patient to remain still for an extended period, whether non-sedated, mildly sedated, or locally sedated. The training device comprises a handheld device comprising a display for displaying visual information to the patient, a motion sensor configured to detect motion information, including the amount of movement from the patient when holding the device, and a processor. The processor is configured to provide the patient with visual information on the display for a predetermined period, the visual information being based on the medical procedure the patient is scheduled to undergo. The processor is further configured to receive motion information from the motion sensor during the predetermined period, compare the amount of movement to a predetermined threshold, and adapt the visual information to include feedback information for the patient, the feedback information including penalty information when the amount of movement in the received motion information exceeds a predetermined motion threshold, and / or reward information when the amount of movement in the motion information does not exceed a predetermined motion threshold. Such a training device allows the patient to be trained in an intuitive and interactive manner about the consequences of movement during the medical procedure, while the need for this remains as much as possible. The patient's performance can be improved by providing positive feedback, negative feedback, or both. Since visual information is based on the medical procedure the patient will undergo, training will best prepare the patient for the procedure and make them more familiar with the equipment, environment, and / or procedure beforehand, which will further help reduce anxiety levels and movements during scanning, thereby increasing the chances of a successful procedure without the need for (partial) repeated procedures or potentially harmful (complete, local, or partial) anesthetics or other types of sedatives.

[0010] In one embodiment, the handheld device is a mobile phone, tablet computer, or gaming device. These are widely available devices that most patients already own or can be supplied with. Such handheld devices are easily upgraded to become claim training devices by loading training software onto the device.

[0011] In one embodiment, the processor is configured to communicate with an external processor configured to provide computing power or additional relevant information. This enables faster processing or the supply of additional training-related data, such as patient-specific data. In some cases, the training software may be stored remotely and accessed and executed via wired or wireless communication.

[0012] In one embodiment, the motion sensor is an accelerometer. These are common motion sensors available in most commercially available handheld devices.

[0013] In one embodiment, the visual information may be a film, a game, or images. These can provide powerful, interactive visual content for patient engagement.

[0014] In one embodiment, the visual information includes visual and / or auditory representations of the medical procedure the patient is expected to undergo. Therefore, the training can be conducted in a way that is as close as possible to and relevant to the actual medical procedure. Introducing the visual and / or auditory experiences the patient will make the training more relatable and reduce patient anxiety.

[0015] In one embodiment, there is at least one further predetermined motion threshold, and the processor adapts the visual information differently after passing each predetermined motion threshold result, for example, in several steps of the severity of penalty and / or reward information. This allows for various levels of feedback that correspond to different amounts of movement and correlate with the actual movement situation in the actual procedure.

[0016] In one embodiment, the medical procedure is a magnetic resonance imaging procedure, an X-ray computed tomography (X-ray) imaging procedure, an ultrasound imaging procedure, a diagnostic X-ray imaging procedure, a positron emission tomography (POST) scan, a single-photon emission (SMT) scan, an (image-guided) radiotherapy procedure, an (image-guided) interventional medical procedure, or any other medical procedure in which motion may affect image quality or success. All of these procedures are often performed without sedation, with mild sedation, or with local sedation, and require the patient to remain still for a shorter or (very) longer period.

[0017] In one embodiment, the processor is further configured to record the results of a series of training sessions, display and / or transmit the results of the training sessions, and optionally adapt visual information based on the results of the training sessions. The progress of such a patient may be analyzed and evaluated, for example, to determine whether the patient is adequately or sufficiently trained for the actual procedure.

[0018] In one embodiment, visual information includes a patient-selected or patient-designed graphic representation (avatar) based on the patient who is scheduled to undergo a medical procedure. This further personalizes the training experience and allows the patient to be more involved in the training.

[0019] The claimed invention further relates to a motion guidance device for guiding a patient scheduled to undergo a medical procedure, comprising the aforementioned training device. The training device is and must be suitable for use during the medical procedure. Thus, the same training device is used as a motion guidance device during the actual procedure, providing the patient with a familiar interface and potential distraction during the procedure, reducing anxiety and / or movement.

[0020] In one embodiment of a motion guidance device, the training device is mechanically and / or electronically connected to equipment used in medical procedures, such as a medical imaging system or workstation for radiotherapy or image-guided interventions. In such a case, visual information provided by a processor within the motion guidance device can be updated or matched with actual images or guidance. There may also be a feedback loop in which the game is adapted based on the actual situation.

[0021] Furthermore, the knowledge gained from patients during training using training devices can be used to optimize actual medical procedures. For example, by selecting in-bore induction and / or entertainment content during medical image scans to best match their preferences (e.g., featuring the same avatar used in training). Another example is using performance observed or recorded during training so that the patient's "patience" level (e.g., the amount of training the patient has done, including their detectable ability to hold still images) influences parameters of the medical procedure (e.g., if the medical procedure is an MRI scan, selecting an MRI sequence that is more or less sensitive to movement). The claimed invention is further directed to a method for training a patient who is scheduled to undergo medical imaging treatment, the claimed invention includes the steps of: providing a patient on a display with visual information for a predetermined period of time relating to medical imaging treatment; receiving motion information, including the amount of movement of a handheld device held by the patient for the predetermined time during use; adapting the visual information based on the received motion information; configuring the visual information to include penalty information if the amount of movement in the motion information exceeds a predetermined motion threshold, and / or configuring the visual information to include reward information if the amount of movement in the motion information does not exceed the predetermined motion threshold.

[0022] In one embodiment, the claimed method further includes recording the results of a plurality of consecutive training sessions, displaying and / or transmitting the results of the plurality of training sessions, and optionally adapting visual information based on the results of the plurality of training sessions.

[0023] The present invention further relates to a computer program product configured to perform the steps of the above-described method in use.

[0024] Still further aspects and embodiments of the present invention will be understood by those skilled in the art by reading and understanding the following detailed description. Many additional advantages and benefits will become apparent to those skilled in the art upon reading the following detailed description of the preferred embodiments.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0025] [Figure 1] Shows a schematic view of a training device claimed in the form of a mobile phone. [Figure 2] Shows an exemplary depiction of visual information related to a medical imaging procedure shown on a training device as claimed in the claims. [Figure 3] Shows an exemplary sequence of performing a training session for a medical imaging procedure on a training device as claimed. [Figure 4] Shows an exemplary depiction of visual information related to an interventional medical procedure shown on a training device as claimed. [Figure 5] Shows a schematic flowchart of a workflow using a training device as claimed in the claims.

Modes for Carrying Out the Invention

[0026] The present invention can take the form of various arrangements of components and constituent elements, as well as various processing operations and arrangements of processing operations. The drawings are for illustrative purposes only of preferred embodiments and should not be construed as limiting the present invention. Certain features may be omitted or dimensions may not conform to scale for better visualization.

[0027] The present invention will be described below using the example of a child aged 4 to 8 years being scheduled to undergo an MRI examination. Of course, the present invention can also be applied to other medical procedures, children of other age groups, or adults. In some cases, alternatives will be mentioned, but where not applicable, the examples will not limit the scope of the claims to exclude any other age group or medical procedure.

[0028] The insight forming the basis of this invention is to understand what will happen to a patient who is scheduled to undergo a medical procedure, and what the patient will need more effectively and / or more efficiently if the information is provided in a more interactive and engaging manner, which requires the patient to perform an action that will cause them to experience the results immediately.

[0029] A further insight underlying the present invention is that when the information a patient receives is directly related to the scheduled procedure (improving the transmission of learning), the patient is better prepared and better familiar with the scheduled medical procedure.

[0030] Accordingly, the present invention relates to instructing a patient about the effects of movement in a medical procedure using a handheld device that presents the patient with visual information related to the procedure the patient will receive. By detecting movement from the patient holding the handheld device, the patient is provided with immediate feedback through changes in visual information and / or auditory information. The patient is instructed on the importance of reducing or eliminating movement by being provided with reward information when the movement is very small and penalty information when the movement becomes too large to achieve a satisfactory outcome.

[0031] The term "handheld device" is a standard term that covers all devices that are held by the user during use, regardless of whether the patient is actually holding the device.

[0032] The handheld device is preferably a mobile phone, which is a device that most people own or have direct access to. In other embodiments, the handheld device may be a tablet computer or a gaming device (e.g., a controller for a game computer or mobile game computer).

[0033] The requirements for a handheld device are that it can detect motion and provide the user with visual, preferably auditory, information. Mobile phones, especially smartphones, that come standard with a display screen and motion sensors are readily available, as are many types of tablet computers and gaming devices (however, in these cases, the display may be an externally connected display).

[0034] Since most people own or have access to a suitable handheld device, they can be supplied with software to perform the training on their handheld device. If not, they may be temporarily given a mobile device to use the training. The advantage is that patients can perform the training at a location and time convenient for them, for example, at home, using the training device.

[0035] In the context of the claimed invention, the term “hold” should not be interpreted as meaning that the patient holds the handheld device only by holding it with one or both hands, but also include any other way in which the patient can control the balance of the handheld device. For example, some patients may not be able to hold the device steadily with one or both hands, or a patient may not be able to hold the handheld device at all, but may still be able to lie down with their head, torso, or other body parts that still need to be present during the procedure. In these cases, the patient may “hold” the handheld device by balancing it on other body parts, preferably those most relevant to the approaching procedure, such as the torso (i.e., the abdomen or back when lying down), knees, legs, arms, feet, or head, insofar as it affects the mobility of the handheld device and allows the patient to receive feedback therefrom.

[0036] Figure 1 shows an exemplary depiction of a training device according to the present invention, comprising a mobile phone 10, a display screen 11, an integrated processor 12, a motion sensor 13, and a speaker 14.

[0037] The mobile phone 10 may be of any size, shape, model, etc., as long as it is suitable to address the requirement that it be used as a training device as described in the claims. The display screen 11 may also be of any size or type (e.g., LCD, LED, etc.). Screens with a large surface area and the ability to display strong colors or small, fine details are preferred.

[0038] Preferably, the display 11 is integrated into the mobile device 10, but the visual content may be duplicated or transmitted to an external display screen that is wired or wirelessly connected to the rest of the handheld device, such as a remote display screen, goggles, or glasses. While the integrated screen 11 is the most practical and compact solution, an external screen is still part of the handheld device, even if, as defined in the context of this invention, that external screen does not mean that the external screen is handheld or portable. Such an external screen may be easier to use, for example, when the patient is unable to see the integrated screen due to the patient's position or other reasons that prevent the patient from holding the handheld device and simultaneously viewing the integrated screen.

[0039] The processor 12 must be able to receive, process, and analyze incoming information and output it in real time visually and optionally audibly. The processor can also contact a remote processor, for example via the Internet, or via wired or wireless connections such as Bluetooth or WiFi, via a connection to a local external processor, such as a workstation that can support the processor in processing power and / or provide additional information such as patient data, and / or store training session data that is automatically processed and / or reviewed by a physician for use in future sessions, or evaluate whether the patient is sufficiently trained to undergo medical procedures.

[0040] The motion sensor 13 must be sensitive enough to detect both relatively small and large movements caused by the user holding the handheld device 10. Most handheld devices have motion sensors. These are usually relatively simple accelerometers, but more advanced accelerometers or other suitable integrated motion sensors are also possible.

[0041] Preferably, the handheld device can also provide auditory information, such as sound effects, music, coaching, or other beneficial speech information, to make the experience more immersive and effective. Therefore, the mobile phone 11 in this example includes an integrated speaker 14. Alternatively, or simultaneously, a headphone connection may be available to allow the connection of headphones worn by the patient.

[0042] The visual information is optionally augmented with auditory information and is preferably in the form of (interactive) movies, games, or interactive images. The visual information may be relatively simple, but may also be complex and rich in content.

[0043] To ensure that patients can relate the information to the medical procedure they are scheduled to be trained in, visual information must include elements of the medical procedure. For example, it should show relevant medical equipment, the surroundings, the goals or outcomes of the procedure, and the medical staff. This information may be presented in a general manner, or in a realistic manner by using images of the actual medical location, equipment, and / or personnel of the scheduled medical procedure.

[0044] Visual information may also be adapted to suit the patient's interests or cognitive abilities. For example, cartoon-like visual information may be more effective in pediatric patients, while more realistic visual information with varying levels of (medical) detail may be more effective in adults.

[0045] Visual information may include both interactive and non-interactive portions. For example, visual information may begin with an introductory video about the need to remain still during a procedure, and then show the medical location, equipment and / or staff, instructions for interactive components, and / or any other information that may be useful. In this case, the interactive components may be, for example, the formation of a game.

[0046] The visual information may include characters based on the patient or selected by the patient from a database of characters that can be personalized. Such so-called avatars may be a representation of the patient in a realistic or cartoonish form, or they may be in a completely different form, such as an animal or a fantasy creature. In some embodiments, other characters in the visual information may also be based on, for example, family members, medical staff, or selected from a pre-programmed database of characters.

[0047] Figures 2 and 3 show schematic diagrams of exemplary embodiments of visual information that could be used to train a 6-year-old boy who needs to undergo an MRI scan of his brain. The boy selects a cartoon elephant as his avatar, and after an introductory film featuring the selected character, an interactive motion training game 20 is presented on screen 11.

[0048] Figure 2a is a screenshot of a moment in the game, illustrating the key elements of an exemplary movement game. At this stage of the game, an MRI scan is underway while the patient holds the training device, which in this example is a mobile phone running software including an interactive movement training module.

[0049] The game screen of this embodiment comprises three main parts. In the central area of ​​the screen, an MRI device 21 is shown. An avatar 22 is shown lying on a patient support 23 with its head inside the bore of the MRI device 21. This section appears to resemble a scanning room where an actual scan is performed, thereby already creating knowledge about the equipment and location where the patient needs to lie. The room can be shown by multiple angels before or during the game to enhance familiarity. On the right side, a monitor screen 24 is shown where a simulated MRI image 25 is formed during the game. The monitor screen is subdivided into six subsections 24a to 24f, each sequentially revealing a percentage of the entire image 25. On the left side, a progress bar 25 is shown. This bar slowly fills up during the game, and each time a horizontal marker passes over it, a new subsection 24a to 24f appears. In this screenshot, two of the six subsections have already been revealed. When the bar 25 is filled, the game ends.

[0050] During the game, the patient is required to hold the mobile phone with one or both hands and try to keep it still while the bar 25 fills up and the image 25 appears. If the patient moves the mobile phone too much, as detected by the motion sensor, a warning signal is shown and / or sounds. In Figure 2b, such a warning sign 26 is shown as the formation of a swaying character that notifies the patient that the movement is too large, accompanied by a sound effect and / or verbal commentary.

[0051] Figure 3 shows an exemplary sequence 100 of screenshots 101-112 during a motion training game. The section numbering is the same as in Figures 2a and 2b. To avoid cluttered images, all numbering other than that of screenshots 101-112 themselves is omitted here.

[0052] Screenshot 101 shows the start of the game, immediately after avatar 22 enters MRI bore 21. The progress bar 25 is empty, and the MRI image 25 on monitor screen 24 is still completely blurry. From this moment on, the progress bar begins to fill up, and the game generates the acoustic effects of an ongoing MRI scan, i.e., large pulsed noises of the MRI sequence being run to simulate the sounds a patient would hear during an actual scan, preferably the sounds of the sequence actually used in the procedure.

[0053] To determine whether the patient is keeping the mobile phone sufficiently still during the scan, the motion sensor 13 is used to detect motion information, including information about the amount of movement. The amount of movement may include the intensity or severity of the movement, the length of time the movement lasts, the distance the movement lasts, or any combination thereof. The motion information may also include information about other motion parameters, such as direction (e.g., linear, one-way or multi-directional, yaw, pitch, roll, etc.), changes in direction, length or intensity between movements, and / or periodicity of movements (e.g., regularity of intervals between movements), and / or any other relevant motion information that may be appropriate. While the amount of movement or change among these is most useful in the context of the present invention, other information may be used to better analyze the patient's movement and / or to provide more detailed feedback.

[0054] This motion information is sent to a processor 13, where the amount of motion is compared to a predetermined threshold level. If the amount of motion falls below the predetermined threshold level, the scan continues without any notification until the progress bar 25 is filled to the first horizontal marker.

[0055] Screenshot 102 shows the moment the first horizontal marker of the progress bar passes. The patient does not move the mobile phone with an amount of movement exceeding a threshold level and receives reward information. The first subsection 24a of MRI image 25 appears on the monitor screen 24. Preferably, this is supplemented with visual or auditory reward information such as sound effects, celebrations, score increases, or visual bonus rewards such as medals or stars. The patient was also able to keep the phone 11 sufficiently still while the progress bar 25 and the second subsection 24e of MRI image 25, which fills up with a second horizontal marker, are revealed.

[0056] If the patient moves the mobile phone 11 with a motion amount exceeding a predetermined threshold level, penalty information is notified to the patient. This may include a warning sign or message, and preferably an auditory warning such as a sound effect or spoken comment. The penalty information may also be a reduction in the score displayed on the screen or the removal of stars.

[0057] In screenshot 104, the patient moved the phone 11 above the threshold level at a moment while the progress bar 25 was filled from the second horizontal marker to the third horizontal marker. As a result, a warning that the movement is too large flashes, and the figure appears to shake. In this case, too, this may be accompanied by appropriate auditory information. Consequently, the next subsection of the MRI image 24 is not revealed until the amount of movement falls below the threshold level again. Alternatively, the image subsection may be revealed at a lower quality, for example, with motion artifacts or partially blurred. This may also reduce the score or other visual rewards.

[0058] In this embodiment, there exists a further threshold level above the first threshold level described above. In this embodiment, a low threshold means that the motion is too high to obtain good image quality, but the scan can continue. If the amount of motion exceeds a higher threshold, this means the scan must be stopped. Alternatively, if the motion persists for a predetermined extended period of time between the lower threshold level and the higher threshold level, this may also result in the patient receiving a penalty message in the form of a more severe warning, or also result in the scan being stopped.

[0059] Screenshot 1055 shows that the patient was able to reduce the movement of the phone 11, and the amount of movement fell below the lower threshold level. In this case, the progress bar 25 was reset again to the second horizontal marker, indicating that the procedure could last longer if the part needed to be redone.

[0060] The patient successfully kept the amount of movement low, resulting in the appearance of two nested subsections 24f and 24b, as shown in screenshots 106 and 107.

[0061] However, the patient made a sudden movement immediately after the fourth horizontal marker in the progress bar 25 had passed. The amount of movement was such that it exceeded even the highest threshold level. The patient receives penalty information, which is amplified by a sound effect and is now a stronger color (e.g., red), and a message that the scan was unsuccessful and needs to be reset. In some embodiments, the score may be a number of stars, or the number of stars or other rewards may be significantly reduced. The patient may also be made to wait for a while before the scan can be paused to simulate that the system needs to be reset or the patient needs to be repositioned.

[0062] Fortunately, the patient is able to hold the cell phone 11 well after restarting, revealing the remaining subsections 24c, 24d of the MRI image 25, and the progress bar 25 is fully filled. Once the scan is complete, the full image 25 becomes visible, and the avatar 22 moves away from the bore 21. Additional rewards may include additional animations (e.g., winking or waving of the image), music, a story, or a message. The patient may be invited to try again to do better next time, for example, by earning more starts or by getting a higher score if those rewards are available.

[0063] The training and guidance device of the present invention is suitable for training patients who are scheduled to undergo all types of medical imaging procedures, such as magnetic resonance CT procedures, X-ray computed tomography procedures, ultrasound imaging procedures, diagnostic X-ray imaging procedures, positron emission tomography, or single-photon emission computed tomography.

[0064] Furthermore, the training device described in these claims is also suitable for training patients who are scheduled to undergo radiotherapy procedures or interventional medical procedures, such as catheterization or minimally invasive surgery.

[0065] Figure 4 shows an example of training equipment billed to train a patient scheduled to undergo an interventional medical procedure. In this exemplary case, the patient has a cardiac condition to be treated using a catheterization procedure inserted into a vein in the groin.

[0066] In Figure 4a, the screen 11 of the handheld device displays an image of a person, which in one embodiment may be an actual image of the patient, an avatar based on the patient, or an avatar selected by the patient. The vein through which the catheter passes is visualized as two parallel lines encircling the path 28, and the catheter tip 30 is visualized as a spot within the tube 28. When the interactive portion of the training begins, the catheter tip 30 slowly moves toward the destination 27, in this case the heart of the person 22 imaged on the screen. The patient is required to keep the mobile device stationary, as any movement will cause the catheter tip 30 to deviate from its path toward the heart. Lines indicating the edges of the veins are defined as thresholds by the processor 12, and if the position of the catheter tip 30 comes into contact with the edge of the vein 28, penalty information is provided, as illustrated using the medical imaging examples of Figures 2 and 3.

[0067] More threshold levels can also be defined, for example, a first threshold level somewhat inside the edge of the vein, which provides a mild warning when the catheter tip 30 first approaches but does not yet make contact with the edge of the vein 28. Another threshold level may be when the catheter tip 30 completely punctures the vein 28, thereby causing a medical emergency, which in turn requires the procedure to be stopped and the patient to resume movement and training.

[0068] If the patient remains within the long-term limit and reaches destination 27, reward information, such as prompt messages, score increases, or visual rewards, may be provided.

[0069] Depending on the patient's age and cognitive ability, this training device can also be adapted in terms of style and difficulty level. The example shown in Figure 4a is suitable for older children or adults. Exemplary embodiments are shown in the figure. 4b and 4c are suitable for younger children.

[0070] In this example, the catheter tip 30 is represented by a turtle pulling a cart equipped with the device toward the destination. The turtle swims through a tube 28 representing a vein. A progress bar 25, which fills up during training, represents the distance to the destination 27 while the patient still holds the handheld device 10 for as long as possible.

[0071] In Figure 4b, the patient holds the handheld device below a threshold, i.e., with a movement amount between the walls of the veins 28, and is rewarded with reward information provided by the processor 12, which includes forcing an image, preferably a smile 31, happy music, and / or a sound such as encouraging words. The patient may also receive a score or other visual reward (e.g., stars) that increases over time as the movement amount remains below the threshold level. The progress bar may include markers at various distances that trigger a reward when it passes without exceeding the threshold level.

[0072] In Figure 4c, the patient moves the handheld device too much within the vein 28, as indicated by the progress bar 25, and the amount of movement exceeds a threshold level, i.e., the turtle 30 may come into contact with or even rupture the wall of the vein 28. In response, the processor 12 issues penalty information, such as the smile 31 changing to a sad face 31' and / or a warning symbol 32, as well as optional auditory information such as warnings, sound effects, and comments. The score or other visual reward may be reduced, and the user must restart from a position further away from the destination 27 or restart the training entirely.

[0073] The interactive portion of the training is performed over a predetermined amount of time, which may be (much) less than the actual duration of the procedure, but may be determined to last as long as the procedure itself to allow the patient to already experience the duration of the procedure and to train them to maintain a static state for an extended period.

[0074] The training device described in the claim may, in some cases, be used by the patient during the medical procedure itself. Obviously, the training device used must be compatible with the equipment used in the medical procedure and must not distract or interfere with the medical personnel during the procedure. The training device serves as a motion guide in such situations where it can help keep the patient still during the procedure.

[0075] In a preferred embodiment, the motion guidance device is mechanically and / or electronically (wired or wirelessly) connected to a medical device used in a procedure and can communicate with the device. The motion guidance device can use actual images or other data obtained from the medical device to make the session more realistic or relevant to the user, or to guide the user to perform a motion if the procedure requires it. There may also be a feedback loop in which visual information or guidance timing is adapted based on the actual (and potentially changing) circumstances.

[0076] The processor 12 of the handheld device 10 can communicate the results or summary of the patient's performance to a physician or technician, who can then use this to assess how well the patient is trained and whether further explanation is needed immediately before or during the procedure.

[0077] Furthermore, the processor 12 may transmit the results or an outline of the invention to another processor, or further process the data itself to provide recommendations for the physician or technician involved in the procedure.

[0078] If a patient undergoes training multiple times, their performance can be further evaluated to determine if they are still able to retain the information better and if they have properly understood the training.

[0079] In a further embodiment, the interactive portion of the training may become more difficult in subsequent training sessions, for example, at threshold levels, resulting in fewer movements triggering penalty information, or the patient having to hold the handheld device longer before the next level of progress is achieved or distracting visual and / or auditory information is provided, while the patient still has to hold the handheld device.

[0080] The training may include even more threshold levels, each with its own penalty or reward information.

[0081] The processor may also have a minimum threshold for movement to ensure that the patient is actually holding the handheld device 10 and that the handheld device 10 is not lying on a surface such as a table. The motion sensor 13 must be sensitive enough to detect minute movements caused by a patient holding the handheld device in a very stationary position. If the amount of movement is below the minimum movement threshold, the patient may receive a warning or notification indicating that the amount of movement appears to be too low. Figure 5 shows a schematic flowchart of the workflow 200 of a training session using the training device described in the claims.

[0082] In step 201, the patient is administered, the physician determines which type of training device and method is appropriate, and explains the training to the patient.

[0083] In step 202, the patient receives a training device or downloads a computer program or app to their handheld device to use as a training device. Optionally, the patient can personalize the game to their needs by, for example, selecting or creating an avatar and / or selecting an initial difficulty level.

[0084] In step 203, the patient begins the training by starting a computer program or app on a handheld device and initiating the interactive portion of the movement training. Optionally, the patient may first watch an introductory video explaining the medical procedure, the effects of the movement, and how to perform the interactive portion of the training.

[0085] In step 204, the patient completes the training and is informed as accurately as possible about the effects of movement and the importance of stillness. The patient may decide to repeat the training.

[0086] In one embodiment, the patient's performance during training is analyzed (step 205). This analysis may be used to instruct the player to play it again or to inform them that the training has been successfully completed. This information may also be made available to the physician or technician performing the actual procedure.

[0087] If the player has performed the training multiple times, the combined information can be analyzed (step 205) to monitor the progress of the patient's ability to maintain stillness.

[0088] The training preferably involves forming a computer program that is installed on a handheld device 10 and controllable by a processor 11. It may be downloadable onto the handheld device 10 or pre-stored. It may also be stored externally, accessed, and executed via a wireless connection (such as Bluetooth, WiFi, or the internet).

[0089] Although the present invention is illustrated and described in detail in the drawings and the foregoing description, such illustrations and descriptions should be considered illustrative or non-limiting, and the present invention is not limited to the embodiments disclosed.

[0090] In the context of the claimed invention, the term “visual information” means any information that is visually presented on the screen 11 of the handheld device 10, including images, text, colors, movies, etc.

[0091] Other variations of the disclosed embodiments can be understood and achieved by those skilled in the art in carrying out the claimed invention, based on the drawings, disclosures, and accompanying studies of the claims. In the claims, the word “comprising” does not exclude other elements or steps, and the indefinite article “a” or “an” does not exclude the plural.

[0092] A single processor or other unit may fulfill the functions of several items enumerated in the claims. The mere fact that certain means are described in different dependent claims does not imply that combinations of these means cannot be used advantageously. Computer programs may be stored / distributed on suitable media such as optical storage media or solid-state media supplied together with or as part of other hardware, but may also be distributed in other forms such as the Internet or other wired or wireless telecommunications systems. No reference numeral in the claims should be construed as limiting in scope.

Claims

1. A training device for training a patient scheduled to undergo a non-sedational, mild sedational, or local sedational medical procedure, wherein the patient is required to remain still for a predetermined period of time during the medical procedure, and the training is training for the patient to remain still for the predetermined period of time during the medical procedure. The training device has a handheld device that the patient holds in their hand, The aforementioned handheld device is A display that shows visual information for training to remain stationary to the patient holding the handheld device, A motion sensor configured to detect motion information, including the amount of movement, of the patient holding the handheld device for the training, It has a processor, The aforementioned processor, During the predetermined period, the visual information is provided on the display to the patient holding the handheld device; During the predetermined period, the step of receiving motion information from the motion sensor of the handheld device held by the patient, The steps include comparing the amount of motion included in the motion information with a predetermined motion threshold, A step in which, in accordance with the results of the comparison, feedback information for the patient is displayed on the display as part of the visual information, If the amount of movement is greater than the predetermined movement threshold, the displayed feedback information is penalty information indicating that the patient is not sufficiently still. If the amount of movement is less than or equal to the predetermined movement threshold, the displayed feedback information is reward information indicating that the patient is sufficiently still, step and A training device configured to perform the following actions.

2. The training apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the handheld device is a mobile phone, a tablet computer, or a game device.

3. The training apparatus according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the processor is configured to communicate with an external processor configured to provide computing power or additional relevant information.

4. The training device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the motion sensor is an accelerometer.

5. The training apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the visual information is a movie, a game, or an image.

6. The training device according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the visual information comprises a visual and / or auditory representation of the medical procedure scheduled to be received by the patient.

7. The training apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein there is at least one further predetermined motion threshold, and the processor adapts the visual information in different ways after passing each predetermined motion threshold result in several steps of severity of penalty information and / or reward information.

8. The training apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the medical procedure is a magnetic resonance imaging procedure, an X-ray computed tomography procedure, an ultrasound imaging procedure, a diagnostic X-ray imaging procedure, a positron emission tomography procedure, a single-photon emission computed tomography procedure, an (image-guided) radiotherapy procedure, an (image-guided) interventional medical procedure, or any other medical procedure in which motion affects image quality.

9. The aforementioned processor, Record the results of multiple consecutive training sessions, The results of the aforementioned multiple training sessions are displayed and / or transmitted. The visual information is adapted arbitrarily based on the results of the aforementioned multiple training sessions. The training apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 8, further configured as follows.

10. The training device according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the visual information comprises a graphic representation (avatar) based on a patient scheduled to undergo the medical procedure.

11. A motion guidance device for guiding patients undergoing medical procedures, A training device according to any one of claims 1 to 10, which is suitable for and / or compatible with use in the aforementioned medical procedure. A motion induction device having the following features.

12. The motion induction device according to claim 11, wherein the training device is mechanically and / or electronically connected to equipment used in the medical procedure, or to a medical imaging system or workstation for radiotherapy or image-guided intervention procedures.

13. A method for operating the training device according to claim 1, wherein the processor is During the predetermined period, the visual information is provided on the display to the patient holding the handheld device; During the predetermined period, the step of receiving motion information from the motion sensor of the handheld device held by the patient, The steps include comparing the amount of motion included in the motion information with a predetermined motion threshold, A step in which, in accordance with the results of the comparison, feedback information for the patient is displayed on the display as part of the visual information, If the amount of movement is greater than the predetermined movement threshold, the displayed feedback information is penalty information indicating that the patient is not sufficiently still. If the amount of movement is less than or equal to the predetermined movement threshold, the displayed feedback information is reward information indicating that the patient is sufficiently still, step and A method that includes performing [something].

14. The processor further, A step to record the results of multiple consecutive training sessions, The steps include displaying and / or transmitting the results of the aforementioned multiple training sessions, The steps include: adapting the visual information arbitrarily based on the results of the aforementioned multiple training sessions; The method according to claim 13, which includes performing the following:

15. A computer program that causes a computer to perform each step of the method according to claim 13 or 14.

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