Arms up supporting platform for irradiation treatments

Abstract

Patient support platform and method for supporting a patient during irradiation treatment. Platform includes pelvis and back support members, left / right armrest adaptors, left / right armrest units, and handgrip bar. Each armrest unit includes: an armrest base, linearly displaceable along a respective armrest adaptor; an armrest bar, extending distally forward from end of armrest base and pivotable thereto; and an armrest arm support, linearly displaceable along length of armrest bar, for supporting arm portion. Handgrip bar is removably coupled with left and right armrest bars, for gripping by hands of patient when arm portions are supported. At least a portion of armrest units is selectively adjustable to accommodate patient, such that each arm is raised and extended in front of body with an arm portion of each arm supported by a respective armrest arm support and with hands gripping handgrip bar, such that arms are displaced from path of applied irradiation.

Description

[0001] ARMS UP SUPPORTING PLATFORM FOR IRRADIATION TREATMENTS

[0002] TECHNICAL FIELD

[0003] The present disclosure generally relates to the field of irradiation treatments, and particularly, to platforms for supporting a patient during an irradiation treatment.

[0004] BACKGROUND

[0005] Teletherapy is defined as a treatment methodology in which an irradiation source is at a distance from a body to be treated. X-rays and electron beams have long been used in teletherapy to treat various cancers. Unfortunately, X-rays exhibit a linear energy transfer approaching an exponential attenuation function and are therefore of minimal safe use for deeply embedded growths. The use of heavy particles, particularly hadrons and more particularly protons, in teletherapy, has found increasing acceptance, due to the ability of heavy particles to penetrate to a specific depth without appreciably harming intervening tissue. In particular, the linear energy transfer of hadrons exhibits an inversed depth profile with a marked Bragg peak defined as the point at which the hadrons deposit most of their energy and occurs at the end of the hadrons path. For electrons, the Bragg peak is not observable due to high scattering. For protons with energies below approximately 70 MeV, scattering considerably supresses the Bragg peak. As a result of this effect, increased energy can be directed at an embedded growth as compared to X-rays and electron beams, which particularly harm intervening tissues. While the term hadrons include a wide range of particles, practically, protons and various ions are most widely used in therapy. For clarity, this document will describe treatment as being accomplished with protons, however this is not meant to be limiting in any way.

[0006] The protons or ions can be focused to a target volume of variable penetration depth. In this way the dose profile can be matched closely to the target volume with a high precision. In particular, a proton beam can conform to the shape and depth of a target growth, such as a tumor, so as to avoid irradiating healthy body tissue while delivering a lower total body irradiation dose. As a result, proton therapy can allow for escalated dosages as compared to conventional external beam therapies, which may be particularly beneficial for certain treatments, for example, ocular tumors or skull base and paraspinal tumors. Proton therapy may also enable high precision treatment plans with reduced side effects, such as for pediatric treatments or prostate cancer treatments. In order to ensure complete irradiation of a target growth, a plurality of beams arriving at the embedded growth from several different directions is usually applied. The point at which the plurality of beams intersects, whether they are beamed sequentially or simultaneously, is termed the “isocenter”. To maximize biological effectiveness, the isocenter must be precisely collocated with the target growth.

[0007] Irradiation treatment is performed on a target tissue in a well-defined process. In a first stage, the target tissue is imaged and a treatment plan is established. The treatment plan includes a series of treatment fields, each field defining at least a dosage, a target tissue position and orientation, and irradiation angles, for each irradiation dose. Placement or fiducial markers are defined respective of the patient, for guiding patient positioning for the treatment. In a subsequent stage, irradiation is performed responsive to the developed treatment plan, at a plurality of treatment sessions over a period of time. In each treatment session, care must be taken to ensure proper patient positioning responsive to the fiducial markers, so as to ensure that the applied irradiation doses are properly targeted and to avoid harming organs in vicinity of the target tissue. Positioning of the patient responsive to the markers may be performed based on visualization of the patient in relation to the defined markers.

[0008] Particularly, prior to the treatment session the patient is brought into an initial setup position by positioning a platform supporting the patient such that the fiducial markers converge with an isocenter of the treatment room. A treatment plan is then executed in relation to this setup position, resulting in the target tissue localized at the treatment room isocenter. The patient is repositioned relative to the setup position in accordance with the treatment plan requirements. Specifically, the target tissue is sequentially repositioned with respect to the beam nozzle of the irradiation beam delivery device, which may have a fixed position or be capable of limited movement, such as by means of a gantry. The treatment room isocenter may be designated by a visual indication, such as a plurality of laser beams. The setup positioning of the patient may be verified using image guided radiation therapy (IGRT) techniques. Stabilization mechanisms may be applied to ensure patient positioning is maintained relative to the isocenter during the treatment, such as a mask or shield to affix the face or a body part of the patient.

[0009] Irradiation treatments are typically administered while the patient is in a lying or recumbent position, where the patient body is aligned substantially horizontal to the ground and supported by an underlying platform surface. For example, a recumbent positioned patient may be in a supine posture, with their back resting against the underlying surface and their face positioned upwards, or in a prone posture, with their chest against the underlying surface and their face pointed downwards. However, certain treatments may be difficult to perform on a recumbent patient, such as due to the location of the target tissue in the body, and such treatments may require or be facilitated by an upright or seated (i.e., nonhorizontal) positioning. Accordingly, the patient may be situated on a reclining chair that may be repositioned and reoriented along multiple axes in three- dimensional space. An upright or seated positioning may provide greater patient comfort relative to a recumbent positioning, such as for patients suffering from breathing complications. Upright positioning may also be associated with cost benefits and greater compatibility with existing equipment. Furthermore, upright positioning may affect changes in the volume, location, and / or motion of body organs, such as the lungs and heart, compared to recumbent positioning, which could have beneficial impacts in certain clinical situations.

[0010] For certain treatments it may be necessary to move or displace one or more body parts of the patient to avoid physically interfering with the applied irradiation. Particularly, the arms of the patient may need to be lifted or otherwise moved to avoid interference when treating the chest area. This may be required regardless of whether the patient is aligned in a recumbent position during the treatment, or in an upright or seated position. Furthermore, there is a need to accommodate different patients characterized with differing body shapes and sizes, including differing arm lengths. SUMMARY

[0011] In accordance with one aspect of the present disclosure, there is thus provided a patient support platform for supporting a patient during an irradiation treatment. The support platform includes a pelvis support member, configured for supporting a pelvis of the patient, and a back support member, configured for supporting a back of the patient. The platform includes armrest adaptors, including a left armrest adaptor coupled to a left side of the back support member, and a right armrest adaptor coupled to a right side of the back support member. The platform includes armrest units, including a left armrest unit adjustably coupled to the left armrest adaptor, and a right armrest unit adjustably coupled to the right armrest adaptor. Each of the armrest units includes: an armrest base, linearly displaceable along a respective armrest adaptor; an armrest bar, extending distally forward of the patient from an end of the armrest base and pivotable with respect thereto; and an armrest arm support, linearly displaceable along a length of the armrest bar and configured for supporting an arm portion of the patient. The platform includes a handgrip bar, removably coupled with a left armrest bar of the left armrest unit and with a right armrest bar of the right armrest unit, and configured for gripping by hands of the patient when the arm portions are supported. At least a portion of the armrest units is selectively adjustable to accommodate the patient positioned on the support platform, such that each arm of the patient is raised and extended in front of the body with an arm portion of each arm supported by a respective armrest arm support and the hands of the patient gripping the handgrip bar, such that the arms of the patient are displaced from a path of applied irradiation of the irradiation treatment. The armrest base may be configured to be slid into a slotted portion of the respective armrest adaptor for coupling a respective armrest unit with the armrest adaptor. The armrest unit may include at least one of: an armrest base switch, configured for locking and unlocking a linear displacement of the armrest base; and an armrest bar switch, configured for locking and unlocking a linear displacement of the armrest arm support. The armrest unit may include at least one of: reference markings on the armrest base, for facilitating a linear displacement of the armrest base by a selected distance; and reference markings on the armrest bar, for facilitating a linear displacement of the armrest arm support by a selected distance. The armrest arm support may include a first surface connected with and perpendicular to a second surface, where the arm portion includes an elbow or upper arm of the patient. Each of the armrest adaptors may include a U-profile strip bracket, configured for mounting on a side of the back support member. Each of the armrest adaptors may further include: a first stopper, coupled to the back support member adjacent to a first end of the strip bracket, the first stopper configured to prevent linear displacement of the strip bracket in a first direction; a second stopper, coupled to the back support member adjacent to a second end of the strip bracket, the second stopper configured to prevent linear displacement of the strip bracket in a second direction; and / or at least one knob, configured for loosening or tightening a fastening of the strip bracket with the back support member. The handgrip bar may be removably coupled with the left armrest bar and the right armrest bar by a first protrusion on a first end of the handgrip bar engaged with an indentation on an end of the left armrest bar, and by a second protrusion on a second end of the handgrip bar engaged with an indentation on an end of the right armrest bar. The support platform may further include a platform adjuster, configured to rotate at least one platform surface of the platform about at least one rotational axis, or to displace at least one platform surface of the platform along at least one displacement axis. The support platform may include a seat, and the patient may be in a seated position.

[0012] In accordance with another aspect of the present disclosure, there is thus provided a method for supporting a patient on a patient support platform during an irradiation treatment. The method includes the step of providing a support platform including: a pelvis support member, configured for supporting a pelvis of the patient; a back support member, configured for supporting a back of the patient; armrest adaptors, including a left armrest adaptor and a right armrest adaptor; armrest units, including a left armrest unit and a right armrest unit; and a handgrip bar. The method includes the step of coupling the left armrest adaptor to a left side of the back support member, and coupling the right armrest adaptor to a right side of the back support member. The method includes the step of adjustably coupling the left armrest unit to the left armrest adaptor, and adjustably coupling the right armrest unit to the right armrest adaptor. Each of the armrest units includes: an armrest base, linearly displaceable along a respective armrest adaptor; an armrest bar, extending distally forward of the patient from an end of the armrest base and pivotable with respect thereto; and an armrest arm support, linearly displaceable along a length of the armrest bar and configured for supporting an arm portion of the patient. The method includes the steps of positioning the patient on the support platform, and removably coupling a handgrip bar with a left armrest bar of the left armrest unit and with a right armrest bar of the right armrest unit. The method includes the step of selectively adjusting a positioning of at least a portion of the armrest units to accommodate the patient positioned on the support platform, such that each arm of the patient is raised and extended in front of the body with an arm portion of each arm supported by a respective armrest arm support and the hands of the patient gripping the handgrip bar, such that the arms of the patient are displaced from a path of applied irradiation of the irradiation treatment. The step of selectively adjusting a positioning of at least a portion of the armrest units may include linearly displacing the armrest arm support along a length of the armrest bar of the armrest unit. The step of selectively adjusting a positioning of at least a portion of the armrest unit may include linearly displacing the armrest base of the armrest unit relative to the armrest adaptor. The step of adjustably coupling the left armrest unit to the left armrest adaptor and the right armrest unit to the right armrest adaptor may include sliding an armrest base of a respective armrest unit into a slotted portion of a respective armrest adaptor. The step of removably coupling a handgrip bar may include engaging a first protrusion on a first end of the handgrip bar with an indentation on an end of the left armrest bar, and engaging a second protrusion on a second end of the handgrip bar with an indentation on an end of the right armrest bar. The step of positioning the patient may include positioning the patient in a seated position. The irradiation treatment may include a proton irradiation treatment. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0013] The present disclosure will be understood and appreciated more fully from the following detailed description taken in conjunction with the drawings in which:

[0014] Figure 1 is a schematic illustration of an irradiation treatment system, constructed and operative in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0015] Figure 2A is a rear perspective exploded view illustration of a first exemplary patient support platform for an irradiation treatment, constructed and operative in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0016] Figure 2B is a rear view illustration of the first exemplary patient support platform of FIG. 2A, constructed and operative in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0017] Figure 2C is a side view illustration of the first exemplary patient support platform of FIG. 2A, constructed and operative in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0018] Figure 2D is a perspective exploded view illustration of an armrest unit of the first exemplary patient support platform of FIG. 2A, constructed and operative in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0019] Figure 2E is a perspective view illustration of an armrest unit of the first exemplary patient support platform of FIG. 2A, constructed and operative in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0020] Figure 2F is a perspective cross-sectional view illustration of an armrest adaptor of the first exemplary patient support platform of FIG. 2A, constructed and operative in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0021] Figure 3A is a front perspective view illustration of a second exemplary patient support platform for an irradiation treatment, constructed and operative in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0022] Figure 3B is a rear perspective view illustration of the second exemplary patient support platform of FIG. 3A, constructed and operative in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure; Figure 3C is a side expanded view illustration of the second exemplary patient support platform of FIG. 3A, constructed and operative in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0023] Figure 4A is a front perspective view illustration of the second exemplary patient support platform of FIG. 3A, constructed and operative in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0024] Figure 4B is a side view illustration of the second exemplary patient support platform of FIG. 3A, constructed and operative in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0025] Figure 4C is a perspective expanded view illustration of a front handgrip bar of the second exemplary patient support platform of FIG. 3A, constructed and operative in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0026] Figure 4D is a perspective expanded view illustration of a coupling of a front handgrip bar with an armrest bar of the second exemplary patient support platform of FIG. 3A, constructed and operative in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0027] Figure 5A is a front perspective view illustration of a third exemplary patient support platform for an irradiation treatment, constructed and operative in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0028] Figure 5B is a side view illustration of the third exemplary patient support platform of FIG. 5A, constructed and operative in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0029] Figure 6A is a front perspective view illustration of a fourth exemplary patient support platform for an irradiation treatment, constructed and operative in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0030] Figure 6B is a side view illustration of the fourth exemplary patient support platform of FIG. 6A, constructed and operative in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0031] Figure 6C is a side view illustration of an armrest unit of the fourth exemplary patient support platform of FIG. 6A, constructed and operative in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure; Figure 6D is a perspective view illustration of armrest units and handgrip bar of the fourth exemplary patient support platform of FIG. 6A, constructed and operative in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0032] Figure 6E is a perspective expanded view illustration of an armrest base of an armrest unit of the fourth exemplary patient support platform of FIG. 6A, constructed and operative in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0033] Figure 6F is a perspective expanded view illustration of an armrest arm support and toggle switch of an armrest unit of the fourth exemplary patient support platform of FIG. 6A, constructed and operative in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0034] Figure 7A is a side perspective view illustration of a fifth exemplary patient support platform for an irradiation treatment, constructed and operative in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0035] Figure 7B is a perspective view illustration of a coupling of an armrest adaptor of the fifth exemplary patient support platform of FIG. 7A, constructed and operative in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0036] Figure 7C is a perspective expanded view illustration of the coupling of the armrest adaptor of FIG. 7B, constructed and operative in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0037] Figure 7D is a further perspective expanded view illustration of the coupling of the armrest adaptor of FIG. 7B, constructed and operative in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0038] Figure 7E is a perspective external view illustration of an armrest unit of the fifth exemplary patient support platform of FIG. 7A, constructed and operative in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0039] Figure 7F is a side external view illustration of the armrest unit of FIG. 7E, constructed and operative in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0040] Figure 7G is a perspective internal view illustration of the armrest unit of FIG. 7E, constructed and operative in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure; Figure 8A is a front perspective view illustration of a patient supported by an exemplary patient support platform, constructed and operative in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0041] Figure 8B is a side view illustration of the patient supported by an exemplary patient support platform of FIG. 8A, constructed and operative in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0042] Figure 9A is a perspective view illustration of a first stage of a coupling of a handgrip bar with an armrest bar of an armrest unit of an exemplary patient support platform, constructed and operative in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0043] Figure 9B is a perspective view illustration of a second stage of a coupling of a handgrip bar with an armrest bar of an armrest unit of an exemplary patient support platform, constructed and operative in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0044] Figure 9C is a perspective view illustration of a third stage of a coupling of a handgrip bar with an armrest bar of an armrest unit of an exemplary patient support platform, constructed and operative in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0045] Figure 10A is a perspective expanded view illustration of an exemplary handgrip bar of the fifth exemplary patient support platform of FIG. 7A, constructed and operative in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0046] Figure 10B is a perspective expanded view illustration of an armrest arm support of an armrest unit of the fifth exemplary patient support platform of Fig.7A, constructed and operative in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure; and

[0047] Figure 10C is a perspective expanded view illustration of an armrest base of an armrest unit of the fifth exemplary patient support platform of FIG. 7A, constructed and operative in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE EMBODIMENTS

[0048] The disclosed embodiments may overcome the disadvantages of the prior art by providing a novel support platform for supporting a patient during an irradiation treatment to avoid interference from an arm of the patient, regardless of the patient positioning or alignment on the platform, and regardless of the physical characteristics of the patient.

[0049] Unless otherwise defined, all terms (including technical and scientific terms) used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which the disclosed subject matter belongs. It will be further understood that terms, such as those defined in commonly used dictionaries, should be interpreted as having a meaning that is consistent with their meaning in the context of the specification and claims and should not be interpreted in an idealized or overly formal sense unless expressly so defined herein. Well-known functions or constructions may not be described in detail for brevity and / or clarity.

[0050] It will be understood that, although the terms first, second, etc., may be used herein to describe various elements, components, regions, layers and / or sections, these elements, components, regions, layers and / or sections should not be limited by these terms. Rather, these terms are only used to distinguish one element, component, region, layer and / or section, from another element, component, region, layer and / or section.

[0051] It will be understood that when an element is referred to as being “on”, “attached” to, “operatively coupled” to, “operatively linked” to, “operatively engaged” with, “connected” to, “coupled” with, “contacting”, “added to”, etc., another element, it can be directly on, attached to, connected to, operatively coupled to, operatively engaged with, coupled with, added to, and / or contacting the other element or intervening elements can also be present. In contrast, when an element is referred to as being “directly contacting” another element or “directly added” to another element, there are no intervening elements and / or steps present.

[0052] Whenever the terms “about” or “approximately” is used, it is meant to refer to a measurable value such as an amount, a temporal duration, and the like, and is meant to encompass variations from the specified value, as such variations are appropriate to perform the disclosed methods.

[0053] Certain features of the disclosed subject matter, which are, for clarity, described in the context of separate embodiments, may also be provided in combination in a single embodiment. Conversely, various features of the disclosure, which are, for brevity, described in the context of a single embodiment, may also be provided separately or in any suitable sub-combination or as suitable in any other described embodiment of the disclosure. Certain features described in the context of various embodiments are not to be considered essential features of those embodiments, unless the embodiment is inoperative without those elements.

[0054] Whenever terms “plurality” and “a plurality” are used it is meant to include, for example, “multiple” or “two or more”. The terms “plurality” or “a plurality” may be used throughout the specification to describe two or more components, devices, elements, units, parameters, or the like. The term set when used herein may include one or more items. Unless explicitly stated, the method embodiments described herein are not constrained to a particular order or sequence. Additionally, some of the described method embodiments or elements thereof can occur or be performed simultaneously, at the same point in time, or concurrently.

[0055] Throughout, this disclosure mentions “disclosed embodiments”, “disclosed systems” and “disclosed methods”, which refer to examples of inventive ideas, concepts, and / or manifestations described herein. The fact that some disclosed embodiments are described as exhibiting a feature or characteristic does not mean that other disclosed embodiments necessarily share that feature or characteristic.

[0056] This disclosure employs open-ended permissive language, indicating for example, that some embodiments “may” employ, involve, or include specific features. The use of the term “may” and other open-ended terminology is intended to indicate that although not every embodiment may employ the specific disclosed feature, at least one embodiment employs the specific disclosed feature.

[0057] The term “operator” is used herein to refer to any individual person or group of persons operating a method or system according to a disclosed embodiment, such as a medical practitioner involved in performing and / or planning an irradiation treatment procedure (e.g., a radiation oncologist, a radiation therapy nurse, a medical radiation physicist, a radiation therapist, a dosimetrist, and the like).

[0058] The terms “subject” and “patient” are used interchangeably herein to refer to an individual upon which a method or system according to a disclosed embodiment is operated, such as a person undergoing a proton therapy procedure. The subject may be any living entity, such as a person, human or animal, characterized with body tissue subject to irradiation treatment.

[0059] The terms “proton therapy” and “proton treatment” are used interchangeably herein to broadly encompass all forms of particle therapy or hadron therapy that applies beams of energized ionizing particles for radiotherapy purposes, including but not limited to protons, neutrons and other types of ions (all of which are considered encompassed herein by the term “protons”). The terms “irradiation therapy” and “irradiation treatment” as used herein encompasses proton therapy and other treatments involving applied radiation.

[0060] The term “arm” is used herein broadly to encompass all parts or anatomical segments of an arm of a subject, including but not limited to: an upper arm; a lower arm; a forearm; an elbow; a shoulder; a wrist; a hand; fingers; and the like.

[0061] The disclosed subject matter will be apparent from the following detailed description, which proceeds with reference to the accompanying drawings, wherein the same references relate to the same elements. For a better understanding of certain embodiments and to show how the same may be carried into effect, reference will now be made, purely by way of example, to the accompanying drawings in which like numerals designate corresponding elements or sections throughout.

[0062] Reference is now made to Figure 1 , which is a schematic illustration of an irradiation treatment system, generally referenced 110, constructed and operative in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. Treatment system 110 includes an irradiation beam generator 112, an irradiation beam delivery device 114, an imager 116, a positioning verifier 117, a controller 118, a database 119, a patient support platform 122, and a platform adjuster 124. Controller 118 is communicatively coupled with beam generator 112, with beam delivery device 114, with imager 116, with positioning verifier 117, with database 119, and with platform adjuster 124. Treatment system 110 is configured to be deployed for treating a patient 120 in a treatment room 100, which is generally characterized with shielding properties to limit radiation from penetrating beyond the treatment area. Some of the components of treatment system 110 may reside outside room 100.

[0063] Patient support platform 122 is configured for supporting a patient 120 during a treatment session or planning stage. In one embodiment, patient support platform 122 includes a reclining chair, such that patient 120 may be in a sitting position and supported by a pelvis support member 121 , such as a seat, and a back support member 123, such as a back rest (as illustrated in Fig.1 ). Patient support platform 122 may also include or be converted into a bed, such that patient 120 may be in a lying or recumbent position (i.e. , horizontal to the ground) supported by the bed. Patient support platform 122 is mounted on an adjustable platform base 126, coupled to platform adjuster 124. Pelvis support member 121 may be tilted relative to platform base 126, such as defining an inclination angle (e.g., 10° inclination) relative to a vertical axis. Back support member 123 may be tilted relative to platform base 126, such as defining an inclination angle (e.g., 20° inclination) relative to a horizontal axis.

[0064] Platform adjuster 124 is configured to adjust a position and / or orientation of platform 122, so as to correspondingly alter a position and / or orientation of patient 120 along six degrees of freedom (6DOF). Platform adjuster 124 may include a rotational adjustment mechanism, configured to adjust at least one rotational angle of platform 122 (e.g., pitch, yaw, roll rotations), and / or a translational adjustment mechanism, configured to translationally displace platform 122 along at least one axis. For example, platform adjuster 124 may include a first mechanism for adjusting a height of platform base 126, and a second mechanism for rotating platform 122 (e.g., by manipulating an orientation of platform base 126) about pitch, yaw, and roll axes, respectively (e.g., causing patient 120 to lay back, tip sideways, or swivel, respectively). For example, a rotational adjustment mechanism may rotate platform 122 (or platform base 126) about three orthogonal axes 125R, 127R, 129R, where a first axis 125R is parallel to a floor 102 of the treatment room 100, a second axis 127R is parallel to floor 102 and orthogonal to first axis 125R, and a third axis 129R is orthogonal to floor 102. The rotation of patient support platform 122 causes a rotation of patient 120 about three orthogonal axes 125P, 127P, 129P, where a first axis 125P is parallel to a longitudinal axis of platform base 126, a second axis 127P is parallel to a longitudinal axis of platform base 126 and orthogonal to first axis 125P, and a third axis 129P is orthogonal to a longitudinal axis of platform base 126. In one embodiment, axes 125P, 127P and 129P correspond to axes 125R, 127R and 129R, respectively.

[0065] Irradiation beam generator 112 includes components and techniques for generating an irradiation therapy proton beam, such as a particle accelerator. For example, generator 112 may include a cyclotron or a synchrotron particle accelerator.

[0066] Irradiation beam delivery device 114 includes components and techniques for delivering at least one irradiation dose 115 to patient 120 from a generated proton beam. For example, beam delivery device 114 may operate using a pencil beam scanning (PBS) mechanism. Delivery device 114 may optionally be coupled with a rotatable gantry (not shown), configured for positioning and orienting the beam nozzle about multiple axes in 3D space, for directing a delivered irradiation dose 115 to a selected position and orientation (i.e., a selected isocenter). Alternatively, treatment system 110 may operate without a rotatable gantry, which may provide increased treatment flexibility for different anatomical sites and may facilitate upright positioning of patient 120.

[0067] Imager 116 is configured for imaging patient 120, such as during a treatment planning stage and / or a treatment session. For example, imager 116 may be a medical imaging device used in a medical treatment setting, including but not limited to: a computed tomography (CT) scanner, a four-dimensional computed tomography (4DCT) scanner, an X-ray computed tomography (X-ray CT) scanner, an optical coherence tomography (OCT) scanner, a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scanner, and an ultrasound imager. In general, imager 116 may include any type of imaging sensor capable of acquiring and storing an image representation of an object or scene. Accordingly, the term “image” as used herein refers to any form of output from such an imager, including any optical or digital representation of a scene acquired at any wavelength or spectral region, and encompasses both a single image frame and a sequence of image frames (i.e., a “video image”). An image rotation mechanism (not shown) may be configured to rotate imager 116 about at least one axis, to enable imaging from selected directions or viewing angles.

[0068] Positioning verifier 117 is configured for verifying that patient 120 is properly positioned in a designated setup position for treatment. Positioning verifier 117 may be embodied, for example, by an X-ray imaging device including a set of complementary X-ray emitter and detector pairings located around the treatment isocenter, where the respective pairings are in perpendicular alignment to one another (i.e., to enable three-dimensional localization). Alternative approaches for position verification may include surface guided radiation therapy (SGRT) 3D imaging techniques, and cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) imaging techniques.

[0069] Controller 118 is configured to selectively control the operation of components of treatment system 110 and may dynamically adjust operational parameters thereof. Controller 118 is further configured to receive and provide instructions and data from / to components of system 110 and to perform required data processing.

[0070] Database 119 stores relevant information to be retrieved and processed by processor 114, such as captured images. Database 119 may be embodied by one or more local servers or by remote and / or distributed servers, such as in a cloud storage platform.

[0071] Information may be conveyed between the components of treatment system 110 over any suitable data communication channel or network, using any type of channel or network model and any data transmission protocol (e.g., wired, wireless, radio, WiFi, Bluetooth, and the like). The components and devices of treatment system 110 may be based in hardware, software, or combinations thereof. It is appreciated that the functionality associated with each of the devices or components of treatment system 110 may be distributed among multiple devices or components, which may reside at a single location or at multiple locations. For example, the functionality associated with controller 118 may be distributed between separate components, such as at least one control unit and at least one processing unit (e.g., which may be part of a server or a remote computer system accessible over a communications network, such as a cloud computing platform). Controller 118 may also be at least partially integrated with other components of system 110 (such as incorporated within a dedicated local control unit).

[0072] Treatment system 110 may optionally include and / or be associated with additional components not shown in the Figures, for enabling the implementation of the disclosed subject matter. For example, treatment system 110 may include a user interface (not shown) for allowing a user to provide instructions or control various parameters or settings associated with system 110, and / or a display device (not shown) for visually displaying information relating to the operation of system 110.

[0073] In accordance with an aspect of the present disclosure, a patient support platform is configured to facilitate displacement of at least one arm of a patient during an irradiation treatment. Reference is made to Figures 2A, 2B, 2C. Figure 2A is a rear perspective exploded view illustration of a first exemplary patient support platform, generally referenced 222, for an irradiation treatment, constructed and operative in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 2B is a rear view illustration of support platform 222. Figure 2C is a side view illustration of support platform 222. Support platform 222 includes a pelvis support member 223, a back support member 224, a head support member 226, and foot support members 228, 229. Support platform 222 may support a patient (not shown) in different positions or alignments, such as a seated position (upright or inclined), or a recumbent (horizontal) position. Pelvis support member 223 is adapted to support a pelvis of a patient, such as a seat for supporting the pelvis of a seated patient, and may be adjustable, such as tiltable along an inclination axis relative to a vertical plane. Back support member 224 is adapted to support a back of a patient, such as a backrest for supporting the back of a seated patient, and may be adjustable, such as tiltable along an inclination axis relative to a horizontal plane. Head support member 226 is adapted to support a head of a patient, such as a headrest for supporting the head of a seated patient, and may be adjustable, such as tiltable along an inclination axis relative to a horizontal plane. Foot support members 228, 229 are adapted to support feet of a patient, such as a left foot support member 228 to support a left foot of a seated patient and a right foot support member 229 to support a right foot of a seated patient, and may be adjustable, such as movable along forward and backward directions relative to a horizontal plane. Foot support members 228, 229 are coupled to pelvis support member 223 via a vertically aligned base member 227. Support platform 222 may be mounted on or coupled to at least one platform adjustment component (not shown), configured to provide rotational and / or translational adjustment of one or more platform surfaces or support members 223, 224, 226, 227, 228, 229 of platform 222.

[0074] Support platform 222 further includes at least one armrest adaptor 230, and at least one armrest unit 250. A first armrest adaptor 230 is mounted on a first (e.g., right) side of back support member 224 of platform 222. Armrest adaptor 230 includes a strip bracket 232 mounted on a first (e.g., right) side of back support member 224, such as via one or more mechanical fasteners (e.g., screws). For example, strip bracket 232 may be a U-profile or U-shaped bracket, mounted such that an inner surface of strip bracket 232 is engaged with a mounting strip disposed on a side of back support member 224. A first stopper 233 is coupled to back support member 224 adjacent to a first (e.g., top) end of strip bracket 232, and a second stopper 236 is coupled to back support member 224 adjacent to a second (e.g., bottom) end of strip bracket 232. For example, first stopper 233 may be a small bracket mounted on a side of back support member 224 above strip bracket 232 of armrest adaptor 230, to prevent displacement of strip bracket 232 (e.g., from sliding off in an upward direction). Second stopper 236 may be embodied by a short ledge protruding substantially perpendicular to back support member 224 at a bottom corner thereof, to prevent displacement of strip bracket 232 (e.g., from sliding off in a downward direction). One or more knobs 234 may be configured for loosening or tightening a fastening of armrest adaptor 230, such as to enable adjustment of strip bracket 232 upwards or downwards along the side of back support member 224. Armrest adaptor 230 may be removably mounted on support platform 222, such as to enable detachment and remounting on a different support platform. Exemplary dimensions of armrest adaptor 230 may include: a width at a first end of a first side of about 45-50 millimeters (mm); a width at second end of a first side of about 75-85 mm; and a length of about 535-550 mm. Support platform 222 further includes a second armrest adaptor 240 mounted on a second (e.g., left) side of back support member 224, where second armrest adaptor 240 is generally analogous to first armrest adaptor 230.

[0075] A first armrest unit 250 is adapted for mounting on first armrest adaptor 230. Reference is further made to Figures 2D, 2E and 2F. Figure 2D is a perspective exploded view illustration of an armrest unit 250 of support platform 222. Figure 2E is a perspective view illustration of armrest unit 250 of support platform 222. Figure 2F is a perspective cross-sectional view illustration of an armrest adaptor 230 of support platform 222. Armrest unit 250 includes an armrest base 252, a distally extending armrest bar 254, and an armrest arm support 255. Armrest base 252 is configured for coupling with strip bracket 232 of armrest adaptor 230. In particular, armrest base 252 may be slid along a slotted portion of strip bracket 232 (as shown in FIG. 2F), and then fastened, such as via one or more screws 253 (or other mechanical fasteners) inserted through aligned apertures extending through armrest base 252 and strip bracket 232. Armrest base 252 may be embodied by a bar with a longitudinally extending ridge, adapted to engage with a longitudinally extending inner groove of strip bracket 232 defining a slot, to facilitate slidable mounting of armrest base 252 with strip bracket 232 for coupling armrest unit 250 with armrest adaptor 230.

[0076] Armrest bar 254 extends distally from an end (e.g., a top end) of armrest base 252, such as extending in a forward direction of the patient (i.e., along a horizontal axis). Armrest bar 254 may be linearly displaced with respect to armrest base 252, such as extendable and retractable along a longitudinal axis thereof. Armrest bar 254 may optionally be pivotable with respect to armrest base 252, such as to enable upward or downward movement thereof. Armrest bar 254 may be configured as a strip with a solid portion enclosing an inner gap 251 extending along the length of armrest bar 254. A portion of arm support 255 may engage with inner gap 251 of armrest bar 254 to enable adjustable displacement of arm support 255 along the length of armrest bar 254. Armrest bar 254 may include reference markings 258 of distance measurements (e.g., centimeters or millimeters), such as along a bottom segment of bar 254 (e.g., as shown in Figs.2D, 2E), for facilitating displacement of arm support 255 by a selected distance. Armrest bar 254 may be coupled to a handgrip bar 259 (FIG. 2C).

[0077] Arm support 255 is movably coupled with armrest bar 254. Arm support 255 is configured for supporting an arm portion of a patient, such as a forearm, an elbow, a wrist, and / or a hand. Arm support 255 may be configured as an L-shaped support bracket with a first (e.g., substantially horizontal) surface connected with and perpendicular to a second (e.g., substantially vertical) surface, such that an arm portion (e.g., an elbow) is supported on the bottom by the first surface of arm support 255 and on the side by the second surface of arm support 255. Arm support 255 may be configured with a ridge (e.g., on the second surface thereof), for engaging with inner gap 251 of armrest bar 254, to enable displacement of arm support 255 along the length of armrest bar 254. Arm support 255 may include a toggle switch 257 for locking (i.e. , preventing) or unlocking (i.e. , enabling) displacement of arm support 255 along armrest bar 254. For example, switch 257 may be switched to a first state (e.g., by turning a lever in a first direction) to enable linear displacement of arm support 255 (i.e., proximally to or distally from the patient) by sliding arm support 255 along gap 251 of armrest bar 254, and switch 257 may be switched to a second state (e.g., by turning a lever in a second direction) to lock arm support 255 in a fixed position along armrest bar 254. Arm support 255 may optionally be pivotable with respect to armrest bar 254, such as pivotable about an axis extending along the length of armrest bar 254, such as in a side-to-side swiveling rotation.

[0078] Armrest adaptor 230 and armrest unit 250 may be composed of one or more suitable materials, such as plastic or thermoplastic. Exemplary dimensions of armrest unit 250 may include: a horizontal distance of about 380-390 mm between a first end and a second end of armrest bar 254; a vertical distance of about 665-675 mm between a distal end or armrest base 252 and a distal end of armrest bar 254; and an inclination angle of approximately 120° between armrest base 252 and armrest bar 254. Support platform 222 may further include a second armrest unit (not shown) adapted for mounting on second armrest adaptor 240, where the second armrest unit is analogous to first armrest unit 250.

[0079] In accordance with an aspect of the present disclosure, a forward bar may be provided between armrest units, such as connecting between a left armrest unit and a right armrest unit. Reference is made to Figures 3A, 3B, 3C. Figure 3A is a front perspective view illustration of a second exemplary patient support platform, generally referenced 322, for an irradiation treatment, constructed and operative in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 3B is a rear perspective view illustration of support platform 322. Figure 3C is a side expanded view illustration of support platform 322. Support platform 322 is generally analogous to support platform 222 (FIG. 2A) with the addition of a forward handgrip bar 374 between a right armrest bar 354 of a right armrest unit 350 and a left armrest bar 364 of a left armrest unit 360. Support platform 322 includes a pelvis support member 323, a back support member 324, a head support member 326, and foot support members 328, 329. Right armrest unit 350 is removably coupled with a right armrest adaptor 330 of support platform 322, and left armrest unit 360 is removably coupled with a left armrest adaptor 340 of support platform 322. Right armrest unit 350 includes a right armrest base 352, a distally extending right armrest bar 354, and a right armrest arm support 355, and left armrest unit 360 includes a left armrest base 362, a distally extending left armrest bar 364, and a left armrest arm support 365, all of which are generally analogous to corresponding elements of support platform 222 described hereinabove. Support platform 322 is configured for supporting a patient (not shown), such as in a seated position, with a right arm portion (e.g., a right forearm and / or right elbow) of the patient supported by right armrest arm support 355, and a left arm portion (e.g., a left forearm and / or left elbow) of the patient supported by left armrest arm support 365, and the hands of the patient holding or gripping handgrip bar 374. At least part of armrest units 350, 360 may be adjustable, inducing a corresponding adjustment of handgrip bar 374. For example, armrest bases 352, 362 of respective armrest units 350, 360 may be displaced upwards, inducing a raising of handgrip bar 374 (e.g., toward the head of the patient), such that the arms and hands of the patient are raised upwards, such as to avoid the arms interfering with irradiation directed to a lower body region of the patient (e.g., lower chest). Alternatively, armrest bases 352, 362 of respective armrest units 350, 360 may be displaced downwards, inducing a lowering of handgrip bar 374 (e.g., toward the pelvis and legs of the patient), such that the arms and hands of the patient are lowered downwards, such as to avoid the arms interfering with irradiation directed to an upper body region of the patient (e.g., upper chest). Armrest units 350, 360 may be brought to a default position, such that armrest bars 354, 364 are aligned substantially forward and perpendicular to the ground, and handgrip bar 374 is aligned substantially ahead of patient (e.g., in front of the chest). Such a positioning may be applied, for example, during pauses between irradiation doses or treatment intermissions, or during a treatment directed to body portions away from the chest or stomach area where the arms may not be obstructing, such as a treatment directed toward the head / neck or legs / feet of the patient. Handgrip bar 374 may be shaped and sized to facilitate holding thereof. For example, handgrip bar 374 may include a curvature to facilitate positioning of a left hand and a right hand of the patient, and may include at least one dedicated hand grip, such as a rubber grip material disposed around one or more portions of handgrip bar 374 (e.g., a first hand grip at a left hand portion and a second hand grip at a right hand portion) to provide traction and assist with gripping. It is noted that the gripping of handgrip bar 374 by the patient is optional, and the patient may alternatively position his / her arms in a different manner to avoid potential interference with applied irradiation, such as by placing his / her arms and hands behind his / her head.

[0080] Reference is further made to Figures 4A, 4B, 4C, 4D. Figure 4A is a front perspective view illustration of support platform 322. Figure 4B is a side view illustration of support platform 322. Figure 4C is a perspective expanded view illustration of a front handgrip bar 374 of support platform 322. Figure 4D is a perspective expanded view illustration of a coupling of front handgrip bar 374 with an armrest bar 354 of support platform 322. Front handgrip bar 374 may be coupled with armrest bars 354, 364 via one or more mechanical fasteners, such as a screw or pin 377, inserted through aligned apertures extending through a distal end of armrest bar 354 and a respective end of handgrip bar 374 (as shown in FIG. 4D).

[0081] Reference is now made to Figures 5A and 5B. Figure 5A is a front perspective view illustration of a third exemplary patient support platform, generally referenced 382, for an irradiation treatment, constructed and operative in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 5B is a side view illustration of support platform 382. Support platform 382 is generally analogous to support platform 322 (FIGS. 3A, 4A) with the exception that handgrip bar 384 is integrally embedded with right armrest bar 354 and left armrest bar 364, rather than being mechanically coupled therewith. For example, handgrip bar 384, right armrest bar 354 and left armrest bar 364 may be structurally formed as a common integrated unit, such as using suitable manufacturing techniques. Alternatively, handgrip bar 384 may be detachable from armrest bars 354, 364, such as to facilitate mounting of the patient onto support platform 382 or vacating of the patient from support platform 382, and handgrip bar 384 may be reattached to armrest bars 354, 364 when needed. Handgrip bar 384 may be characterized with at least one different feature relative to handgrip bar 374 of platform 322, such as a different shape, a different thickness, a different gripping material and / or different dimensions.

[0082] Reference is now made to Figures 6A, 6B, 6C, 6D, 6E, 6F. Figure 6A is a front perspective view illustration of a fourth exemplary patient support platform, generally referenced 422, for an irradiation treatment, constructed and operative in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 6B is a side view illustration of support platform 422. Figure 6C is a side view illustration of an armrest unit 350 of support platform 422. Figure 6D is a perspective view illustration of armrest units 350, 360 and handgrip bar 384 of support platform 422. Figure 6E is a perspective expanded view illustration of an armrest base 352 of an armrest unit 350 of support platform 422. Figure 6F is a perspective expanded view illustration of an armrest arm support 355 and toggle switch 357 of an armrest unit 350 of support platform 422. Support platform 422 is generally analogous to support platform 382 (FIG. 5A). Support platform 422 includes a right armrest unit 350 removably coupled with a right armrest adaptor 330, and a left armrest unit 360 removably coupled with a left armrest adaptor 340, and a forward handgrip 384 integrally embedded with right armrest bar 354 and left armrest bar 364. A pair of armrest adaptor levers 334 (analogous to knobs 234 depicted in FIGS. 2A, 2B) are configured for enabling adjustment and repositioning of armrest adaptor 330 relative to a back support member 324 of support platform 422. For example, levers 334 may be turned in a first direction, to enable displacement of armrest adaptor 330, such as by sliding upwards or downwards along the side of back support member 324, and levers 334 may be turned in a second direction, to lock armrest adaptor 330 in a fixed position. Corresponding levers 344 (shown in FIG. 6D) are configured for enabling adjustment and repositioning of left armrest adaptor 340.

[0083] At least one armrest base switch 353 is configured for enabling adjustment and repositioning of armrest base 352 relative to armrest adaptor 330. For example, switch 353 may be switched to a first state (e.g., by turning a lever in a first direction) to enable linear displacement of armrest base 352 by sliding upwards or downwards along armrest adaptor 330, and switch 353 may be switched to a second state (e.g., by turning a lever in a second direction) to lock armrest base 352 in a fixed position. Armrest adaptor 330 may include reference markings of distance measurements (e.g., centimeters or millimeters), such as along an exterior surface of armrest adaptor 330 (e.g., facing the front of support platform 422, as shown in FIG. 6E), for facilitating adjustment of armrest base 352 by a selected displacement amount.

[0084] At least one armrest arm support switch 357 (analogous to switch 257 depicted in FIGS. 2D, 2E) is configured for enabling adjustment and repositioning of arm support 355 relative to armrest bar 354. For example, switch 357 may be switched to a first state (e.g., by turning a lever in a first direction) to enable linear displacement of arm support 355 by sliding arm support 355 lengthwise (i.e., forward or backward) along gap 351 of armrest bar 354, and switch 357 may be switched to a second state (e.g., by turning a lever in a second direction) to lock arm support 355 in a fixed position. Armrest bar 354 may include reference markings of distance measurements (e.g., centimeters or millimeters), such as along an exterior surface of armrest bar 354 (e.g., facing a side of support platform 422, as shown in FIGS. 6D, 6F), for facilitating adjustment of arm support 355 by a selected displacement amount.

[0085] Reference is made to Figures 7A, 7B, 7C, 7D. Figure 7A is a side perspective view illustration of a fifth exemplary patient support platform, generally referenced 522, for an irradiation treatment, constructed and operative in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 7B is a perspective view illustration of a coupling of an armrest adaptor 530 of support platform 522. Figure 7C is a perspective expanded view illustration of the coupling of the armrest adaptor 530 of support platform 522. Figure 7D is a further perspective expanded view illustration of the coupling of the armrest adaptor 530 of support platform 522. Support platform 522 is generally analogous to support platform 382 (FIG. 5A) and support platform 422 (FIG. 7A). Support platform 522 includes a right armrest unit 550 removably coupled with a right armrest adaptor 530, and a left armrest unit 560 removably coupled with a left armrest adaptor 540. Armrest adaptor 530 is coupled to a back support member 524 of support platform 522 (as shown in FIGS. 7A, 7B). An adaptor lever 534 (analogous to levers 334 shown in FIGS. 6A-6E) is configured for enabling adjustment and repositioning of armrest adaptor 330. An armrest base lever switch 553 (analogous to lever switch 353 shown in FIG. 6C) is configured for enabling adjustment and repositioning of armrest base 552 relative to armrest adaptor 530. FIG. 7C shows armrest base 552 being slid along a slotted portion of strip bracket 532 for coupling armrest unit 550 with armrest adaptor 530. FIG. 7D shows armrest base 552 having been slid along a slotted portion of strip bracket 532 for coupling armrest unit 550 with armrest adaptor 530. Reference is further made to Figures 7E, 7F, 7G. Figure 7E is a perspective external view illustration of an armrest unit 550 of support platform 522. Figure 7F is a side external view illustration of armrest unit 550 of support platform 522. Figure 7G is a perspective internal view illustration of armrest unit 550 of support platform 522.

[0086] Reference is now made to Figures 8A and 8B. Figure 8A is a front perspective view illustration of a patient supported by an exemplary patient support platform 522, constructed and operative in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 8B is a side view illustration of the patient supported by support platform 522. A patient 520 is positioned on support platform 522 in a seated position, such that a right arm portion (e.g., a right elbow and upper arm) of patient 520 is supported by a right armrest arm support 555 of a right armrest unit 550, and a left arm portion (e.g., a left elbow and upper arm) of patient 520 is supported by a left armrest arm support 565 of a left armrest unit 560. The hands of patient 520 are gripping handgrip bar 574. It is appreciated that the holding of handgrip bar 574 may be optional, and the hands of patient 520 may alternatively be positioned in a different manner, such as behind the head. Armrest units 550, 560 and handgrip bar 574 may be repositioned, such as by linearly displacing armrest base 552, 562 and / or armrest bar 554, 564 of respective armrest units 550, 560, such that the arms and hands of patient 520 are not in the trajectory of an applied irradiation (e.g., directed toward a chest area of patient 520). Handgrip bar 574 may be directed to a selected alignment (i.e., an angular position) in accordance with a preference of patient 520. For example, a forward alignment of handgrip bar 574 (e.g., directly in front of patient, such as substantially parallel to the ground) may be more comfortable for certain patients than a raised or a lowered alignment. The positioning of armrest units 530, 540 and armrest arm supports 555, 565 may be adjusted to accommodate different patients, such as based on an arm length of patient 520. It is appreciated that the patient may be brought to an arm displacement position (e.g., with arm portions supported by arm supports 555, 565, and optionally with hands holding handgrip bar 574) both during an imaging phase of an irradiation treatment, such as prior to establishing a treatment plan, as well as during a treatment application phase of the irradiation treatment.

[0087] Reference is made to Figures 9A, 9B, 9C. Figure 9A is a perspective view illustration of a first stage of a coupling of a handgrip bar 574 with an armrest bar 554 of an armrest unit of an exemplary support platform 522, constructed and operative in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 9B is a perspective view illustration of a second stage of a coupling of handgrip bar 574 with armrest bar 554 of an armrest unit of support platform 522. Figure 9C is a perspective view illustration of a third stage of a coupling of handgrip bar 574 with armrest bar 554 of an armrest unit of support platform 522. In an exemplary embodiment, handgrip bar 574 includes a first circular protrusion 587 extending outwards at a bottom of a first end thereof, and armrest bar 554 includes a semicircular tapered edge defining a first circular indentation 588 at a distal end of armrest bar 554, where the size and shape of indentation 588 is adapted to the size and shape of protrusion 587 such that protrusion 587 can be securely engaged within indentation 588. Handgrip bar 574 further includes a second circular protrusion 587 (not shown) extending outwards at a bottom of a second end thereof (analogous to first protrusion 587), and a second armrest bar 564 (not shown) of support platform 522 is configured with a corresponding semicircular tapered edge defining a second indentation 588 (not shown) at a distal end thereof (analogous to first indentation 588 of armrest bar 554), where the second indentation 588 is adapted to accommodate and securely engage the second protrusion 587. When handgrip bar 574 is detached from the armrest units 550, 560 of support platform 522, the protrusions 587 of handgrip bar 574 are disengaged from corresponding indentations 588 of armrest bars 554, 564 (as shown in FIG. 9A). To attach handgrip bar 574 with armrest units 550, 560, protrusions 587 of handgrip bar 574 is engaged with corresponding indentations 588 of armrest bars 554, 564 (as shown in FIG. 9B). After engagement, handgrip bar 574 may be pivoted with respect to armrest bars 554, 564 (as shown in FIG. 7C), so as to lock handgrip bar 574 in place and prevent inadvertent detachment.

[0088] Reference is made to Figure 10A, which is a perspective expanded view illustration of an exemplary handgrip bar 574 of support platform 522. Handgrip bar 574 may be provided in different sizes to accommodate different patients, such as having a selected length in accordance with an arm length and / or body size of the patient.

[0089] Reference is further made to Figure 10B, which is a perspective expanded view illustration of an armrest arm support 555 of an armrest unit 550 of support platform 522. The position of armrest arm support 555 relative to armrest bar 554 may be adjusted, such as by unlocking lever switch 557 (i.e., by turning the lever in an unlocking direction) and sliding armrest arm support 555 forward or backward along inner gap 551 of armrest bar 554, to accommodate a particular patient, such as based on the arm length of the patient. For example, arm support 555 may be moved forward (i.e., in an anterior direction) for a patient having a longer arm, and arm support 555 may be shifted backward (i.e., in a posterior direction) for a patient having a shorter arm. Armrest arm support 555 may then be fixed into a selected position by locking lever switch 557 (i.e., by turning the lever in a locking direction) to prevent inadvertent movement.

[0090] Reference is further made to Figure 10C, which is a perspective expanded view illustration of an armrest base 552 of an armrest unit 550 of support platform 522. The position of armrest base 552 relative to armrest adaptor 530 may be adjusted, such as by unlocking lever switch 553 (i.e., by turning the lever in an unlocking direction) and sliding armrest base 552 upward or downward along a segment of armrest adaptor 530, to accommodate a particular patient, such as based on the arm length of the patient. For example, armrest base 552 may be shifted upward for a patient having a shorter arm, and armrest base 552 may be shifted downward for a patient having a longer arm. Armrest base 552 may then be fixed into a selected position by locking lever switch 553 (i.e., by turning the lever in a locking direction) to prevent inadvertent movement.

[0091] It will be appreciated that the disclosed embodiments may allow for supporting a patient during an irradiation treatment while avoiding interference from one or more arms of the patient, particularly for patients treated in a seated position, whether upright or inclined. The mechanism for arm displacement may accommodate different patients having different physical characteristics, such as different arm characteristics, particularly different arm lengths and proportions relative to the body of the patient. The disclosed mechanisms may be applied for different irradiation treatments, and for different patient positioning and alignments on the support platform.

[0092] In accordance with an aspect of the present disclosure, a method for supporting a patient on a patient support platform during an irradiation treatment is provided. In a first step, a support platform is provided. Referring to FIGS. 3A, 3B, 3C, support platform 322 includes pelvis support member 323, back support member 324, a right armrest adaptor 330, a left armrest adaptor 340, a right armrest unit 350, a left armrest unit 360, and a handgrip bar 374.

[0093] In a next step, a left armrest adaptor is coupled to a left side of a back support member of the platform, and a right armrest adaptor is coupled to a right side of the back support member. Referring to FIGS. 2A, 2B, 2C, a right armrest adaptor 230 is mounted onto a right side of support platform 222, and a left armrest adaptor 240 is mounted onto a left side of support platform 222. For example, a strip bracket 232 of right armrest adaptor 230 is mounted onto a mounting element on a right side of back support member 224 of support platform 222. A first stopper 233 is coupled to back support member 224 adjacent to a first (e.g., top) end of strip bracket 232, and a second stopper 236 is coupled to back support member 224 adjacent to a second (e.g., bottom) end of strip bracket 232, to prevent displacement of strip bracket 232. At least one knob 234 is provided for loosening or tightening a fastening of armrest adaptor 230, to enable adjustment of strip bracket 232 upwards or downwards along the right side of back support member 224. In a next step, a left armrest unit is adjustably coupled to the left armrest adaptor, and a right armrest unit is adjustably coupled to the right armrest adaptor, each armrest unit including an armrest base, an armrest bar, and an armrest arm support. Referring to FIGS. 2A, 2D, 2E, 2F, a right armrest unit 250 is coupled to a right armrest adaptor 230 of support platform 222, and a left armrest unit 260 is coupled to a left armrest adaptor 240 of support platform 222. For example, armrest base 252 of right armrest unit 250 is slid into a slotted portion of strip bracket 232 of right armrest adaptor 230, and then fastened via screws 253 inserted through aligned apertures extending through armrest base 252 and strip bracket 232. Armrest base 252 may be linearly displaceable along armrest adaptor 250. Armrest bar 254 extends distally forward of the patient from a top end of armrest base 252. Armrest bar 254 may be pivotable with respect to armrest base 252, such as configured for upward or downward movement. An armrest arm support 255 for supporting an arm portion of the patient is movably coupled with armrest bar 254 and is linearly displaceable along the length of armrest bar 254. Reference markings on armrest bar 254 may facilitate displacement of arm support 255 by a selected distance. A handgrip bar 259 may be connected between right armrest bar 254 and a left armrest bar of left armrest unit 260.

[0094] In a next step, a patient is positioned on the support platform. Referring to FIGS. 8A, 8B, patient 520 is positioned on support platform 522 in a seated position. A right arm portion (e.g., a right elbow and upper arm) of patient 520 may be supported by right armrest arm support 555 of right armrest unit 550, and a left arm portion (e.g., a left elbow and upper arm) of patient 520 may be supported by left armrest arm support 565 of left armrest unit 560. It is noted that at least part of the previous step may be performed after the patient is positioned on the support platform. For example, one or more of the armrest units 550, 560 may be mounted onto respective armrest adaptors 530, 540 after patient 520 has been seated on support platform 522. In another example, one or more armrest unit accessories may be added onto the armrest unit at a later stage, such as mounting armrest arm supports 555, 565 onto respective armrest units 550, 560 after patient 520 has been seated on support platform 522. In a next step, the handgrip bar is removably coupled with a left armrest bar of the left armrest unit and with a right armrest bar of the right armrest unit. Referring to FGS. 3A, 3B, 3C, handgrip bar 374 is removably coupled between right armrest bar 354 of right armrest unit 350 and left armrest bar 364 of left armrest unit 360. The hands of the patient may hold onto handgrip bar 374, or may be alternatively positioned, such as placed behind the head.

[0095] In a next step, a positioning of at least a portion of the armrest units is selectively adjusted to accommodate the patient positioned on the support platform, such that each arm of the patient is raised and extended in front of the body with an arm portion of each arm supported by a respective armrest arm support, and the hands of the patient gripping the handgrip bar, such that the arms of the patient are displaced from a path of applied irradiation. Referring to FIGS. 10A, 10B, 10C, the position of armrest arm support 555, armrest bar 554, and / or armrest base 552 may be adjusted, such as to accommodate the physical characteristics of patient 520. For example, arm support 555 may be repositioned by unlocking lever switch 557 and sliding arm support 555 forward or backward along inner gap 551 of armrest bar, such as shifting arm support 555 forward (anteriorly) for a patient having a longer arm or shifting arm support 555 backward (posteriorly) for a patient having a shorter arm. In another example, armrest base 552 may be repositioned by unlocking lever switch 553 and sliding armrest base 552 upward or downward along a segment of armrest adaptor 530, such as shifting armrest base 552 upward for a patient having a shorter arm or shifting armrest base 552 downward for a patient having a longer arm. Armrest bar 554 may also optionally be adjusted, such as by extending or retracting the length of armrest bar 554, or pivoting armrest bar 554 relative to armrest base 552. Handgrip bar 574 may also optionally be adjusted, such as by detaching handgrip bar 574 from armrest units 550, 560 and attaching a new handgrip bar having at least one different feature, such as a different shape, a different thickness, different gripping material, and / or different dimensions. Following adjustments, each arm of patient 520 is raised and extended in front of the body, with a right arm portion of patient 520 supported by right armrest arm support 555, and a left arm portion of patient 520 supported by left armrest arm support 565, and hands of patient 520 holding handgrip bar 574 (or alternatively positioned, such as behind the head). The arms of patient 520 are thereby displaced from the trajectory of irradiation to be applied during an irradiation treatment, such as irradiation directed toward a chest area of patient 520.

[0096] After the patient has been set up on the support platform, the irradiation treatment may be performed in accordance with a treatment plan during a subsequent treatment stage. The patient arms are supported by the armrest arm supports of the armrest units during the treatment such that the patient arms are displaced from the path of the applied irradiation to avoid interference.

[0097] While certain embodiments of the disclosed subject matter have been described, so as to enable one of skill in the art to practice the present invention, the preceding description is intended to be exemplary only. It should not be used to limit the scope of the disclosed subject matter, which should be determined by reference to the following claims.

Claims

CLAIMS1. A patient support platform for supporting a patient during an irradiation treatment, the platform comprising: a pelvis support member, configured for supporting a pelvis of the patient; a back support member, configured for supporting a back of the patient; armrest adaptors, comprising a left armrest adaptor coupled to a left side of the back support member, and a right armrest adaptor coupled to a right side of the back support member; and armrest units, comprising a left armrest unit adjustably coupled to the left armrest adaptor, and a right armrest unit adjustably coupled to the right armrest adaptor, each of the armrest units comprising: an armrest base, linearly displaceable along a respective armrest adaptor; an armrest bar, extending distally forward of the patient from an end of the armrest base and pivotable with respect thereto; and an armrest arm support, linearly displaceable along a length of the armrest bar, and configured for supporting an arm portion of the patient, and a handgrip bar, removably coupled with a left armrest bar of the left armrest unit and with a right armrest bar of the right armrest unit, the handgrip bar configured for gripping by hands of the patient when the arm portions are supported, wherein at least a portion of the armrest units is selectively adjustable to accommodate the patient positioned on the support platform, such that each arm of the patient is raised and extended in front of the body with an arm portion of each arm supported by a respective armrest arm support and the hands of the patient gripping the handgrip bar, such that the arms of the patient are displaced from a path of applied irradiation of the irradiation treatment.

2. The patient support platform of claim 1 , wherein the armrest base is configured to be slid into a slotted portion of the respective armrest adaptor for coupling a respective armrest unit with the armrest adaptor.

3. The patient support platform of claim 1 , wherein the armrest unit comprises at least one of: an armrest base switch, configured for locking and unlocking a linear displacement of the armrest base; and an armrest bar switch, configured for locking and unlocking a linear displacement of the armrest arm support.

4. The patient support platform of claim 1 , wherein the armrest unit comprises at least one of: reference markings on the armrest base, for facilitating a linear displacement of the armrest base by a selected distance; and reference markings on the armrest bar, for facilitating a linear displacement of the armrest arm support by a selected distance.

5. The patient support platform of claim 1 , wherein the armrest arm support comprises a first surface connected with and perpendicular to a second surface, wherein the arm portion comprises an elbow or upper arm of the patient.

6. The patient support platform of claim 1 , wherein each of the armrest adaptors comprises a U-profile strip bracket, configured for mounting on a side of the back support member.

7. The patient support platform of claim 6, wherein each of the armrest adaptors further comprises: a first stopper, coupled to the back support member adjacent to a first end of the strip bracket, the first stopper configured to prevent linear displacement of the strip bracket in a first direction;a second stopper, coupled to the back support member adjacent to a second end of the strip bracket, the second stopper configured to prevent linear displacement of the strip bracket in a second direction; and at least one knob, configured for loosening or tightening a fastening of the strip bracket with the back support member.

8. The patient support platform of claim 1 , wherein the handgrip bar is removably coupled with the left armrest bar and the right armrest bar by a first protrusion on a first end of the handgrip bar engaged with an indentation on an end of the left armrest bar, and by a second protrusion on a second end of the handgrip bar engaged with an indentation on an end of the right armrest bar.

9. The patient support platform of claim 1 , further comprising a platform adjuster, configured to rotate at least one platform surface of the platform about at least one rotational axis, or to displace at least one platform surface of the platform along at least one displacement axis.

10. The patient support platform of claim 1 , wherein the patient support platform comprises a seat, and wherein the patient is in a seated position.

11. A method for supporting a patient on a patient support platform during an irradiation treatment, the method comprising the steps of: providing a support platform comprising: a pelvis support member, configured for supporting a pelvis of the patient; a back support member, configured for supporting a back of the patient; armrest adaptors, comprising a left armrest adaptor and a right armrest adaptor; armrest units, comprising a left armrest unit and a right armrest unit; and a handgrip bar; coupling the left armrest adaptor to a left side of the back support member, and coupling the right armrest adaptor to a right side of the back support member;adjustably coupling the left armrest unit to the left armrest adaptor, and adjustably coupling the right armrest unit to the right armrest adaptor, each of the armrest units comprising: an armrest base, linearly displaceable along a respective armrest adaptor; an armrest bar, extending distally forward of the patient from an end of the armrest base and pivotable with respect thereto; and an armrest arm support, linearly displaceable along a length of the armrest bar and configured for supporting an arm portion of the patient; positioning the patient on the support platform; removably coupling the handgrip bar with a left armrest bar of the left armrest unit and with a right armrest bar of the right armrest unit; and selectively adjusting a positioning of at least a portion of the armrest units to accommodate the patient positioned on the support platform, such that each arm of the patient is raised and extended in front of the body with an arm portion of each arm supported by a respective armrest arm support and the hands of the patient gripping the handgrip bar, such that the arms of the patient are displaced from a path of applied irradiation of the irradiation treatment.

12. The method of claim 11 , wherein selectively adjusting a positioning of at least a portion of the armrest units comprises linearly displacing the armrest arm support along a length of the armrest bar of the armrest unit.

13. The method of claim 11 , wherein selectively adjusting a positioning of at least a portion of the armrest units comprises linearly displacing the armrest base of the armrest unit relative to the armrest adaptor.

14. The method of claim 11 , wherein adjustably coupling the left armrest unit to the left armrest adaptor and the right armrest unit to the right armrest adaptor comprises sliding an armrest base of a respective armrest unit into a slotted portion of a respective armrest adaptor.

15. The method of claim 11 , wherein removably coupling a handgrip bar comprises engaging a first protrusion on a first end of the handgrip bar with an indentation on an end of the left armrest bar, and engaging a second protrusion on a second end of the handgrip bar with an indentation on an end of the right armrest bar.

16. The method of claim 11 , wherein positioning the patient comprises positioning the patient in a seated position.

17. The method of claim 11 , wherein the irradiation treatment comprises a proton irradiation treatment.

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