Head elevation and support device for portable nmr

Abstract

The present invention relates to a head elevation and support device, in particular a head elevation and support device for use with a nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) device. The head elevation and support device being shaped and configured to elevate and support a head of a patient for neuroimaging by a NMR medical device.

Description

[0001] HEAD ELEVATION AND SUPPORT DEVICE FOR PORTABLE NMR

[0002] Field of the Invention

[0003] The present invention relates to a head elevation and support device, in particular a head elevation and support device for use with a nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) device. The head elevation and support device being shaped and configured to elevate and support a head of a patient for neuroimaging by a NMR medical device, the NMR device being portable.

[0004] Background of Invention

[0005] Traditional NMR devices used for medical purposes, for example for neuroimaging, are large and stationary, requiring that patients must be brought to the device, typically located in a specialised chamber, and set up on a dedicated platform, usually in a supine position. There are very few options available for portable NMR devices for medical purposes such as neuroimaging. However, the importance of detecting head injuries and / or head pathologies, such as stroke, in a timely manner means a lot of emphasis is being placed on the importance of early and efficient imaging of the patient at the bedside and at point of care with portable NMR devices. One such device has been filed in Applicant’s co-pending PCT application PCT / IB2024 / 058197, published as WO 2025 / 041086.

[0006] With the change of focus involving bringing the NMR device to the patient, rather than taking the patient to a dedicated location having a traditional NMR device, there is a need to provide accessories that enable the successful, controlled and repeatable analysis of patients at the bedside and at point of care with a portable NMR device.

[0007] It is an object of the present invention to provide one such accessory or to at least provide the public with a useful choice.

[0008] Summary of the Invention

[0009] In a first aspect, there is provided a head elevation and support device, comprising a cantilevered platform configured and shaped to elevate and support a head of a patient, when in use, the cantilevered platform providing an elevation above a horizontal plane on which the body of a patient is positioned, when in use, the elevation providing a space between the base of the elevated cantilevered platform and the horizontal plane to allow access under the platform supporting the patient’s head, when in use, the cantilevered platform further comprising a reference member for the relative positioning of the patient’s canthomeatal line, when in use; and wherein the cantilevered platform is further configured and shaped to be received into a bore of a NMR device, when in use.

[0010] In one example the NMR device is portable.

[0011] In one example the cantilevered platform comprises a substantially upright support that provides the cantilevered platform at an elevation, the upright support being shaped to extend, at least in part, along the neck of the patient, when in use.

[0012] In one example the elevation above the horizontal plane is between about 50 mm to about 200 mm.

[0013] In one example the elevation above the horizontal plane is between about 75 mm to about 150 mm.

[0014] In one example the elevation above the horizontal plane is between about 90 mm to about 130 mm.

[0015] In one example the elevation above the horizontal plane is adjustable.

[0016] In one example the canthomeatal reference member comprises an optically transparent section to provide a line of sight to the canthomeatal line of a patient, when in use.

[0017] In one example the canthomeatal reference member is an arm comprising spaced apart tines attached to the cantilevered platform at a pivot point by a pivot mechanism that allows the arm to be securely positioned in either a substantially vertical or substantially horizontal position; the spaced apart tines when in a substantially vertical position aligning with canthomeatal line of a patient, when in use.

[0018] In one example the cantilevered platform is configured in shape to provide a curved concave profile that extends to a distal end to support from approximately the cervical spine of the patient to approximately the vertex point on the patient’s head at the distal end, when in use.

[0019] In one example the curved profile is cut away to keep the area above the patient’s face clear.

[0020] In one example the profile of the platform at the distal end of the cantilevered platform is substantially dome shaped.

[0021] In one example the profile of the curved concave profile of the cantilevered platform is shaped and configured to complement an internal surface of the bore to the NMR device.

[0022] In one example the curved concave profile has one or more alignment members designed to engage with one or more complementary features within the bore suitable for alignment purposes. In one example the upright support extends into a further platform that provides a substantially planar base platform and slides under the patient’s thoracic segment, when in use.

[0023] In one example the planar base platform includes a conductive material to shield the NMR device against external electromagnetic interference and patient grounding.

[0024] In one example the planar base platform includes at least one pickup coil to detect external electromagnetic interference.

[0025] In one example the device supports the patient in a supine position, when in use.

[0026] In one example the device supports the patient in a lateral position, when in use.

[0027] In one example the cantilevered platform is further configured to be rotatable between about -90° and about 90° from the horizontal to accommodate a head in either a left or right lateral position, when in use.

[0028] In one example the cantilevered platform comprises at least one head restraint means configured to reduce motion of the patient's head, when in use.

[0029] In one example the device comprises a reflective optical member configured to redirect the patient's line of sight by approximately 90° relative to their natural line of sight, when in use.

[0030] In one example the cantilevered platform is lined with a cushioning material.

[0031] In one example the cushioning material lining the cantilevered platform comprises a means to inflate or evacuate so as to provide adjustable comfort, immobilisation of the patient’s head, or both, when in use.

[0032] In one example a cushioning material covers the base platform.

[0033] In one example the cushioning material covering the base platform is removable.

[0034] In one example the cushioning material covering the base platform provides an incline of between about 0° and about 45° from the horizontal.

[0035] In one example the cushioning material covering the base platform provides an incline of between about 5° and about 30° from the horizontal.

[0036] In one example the cushioning material covering the base platform provides an incline of between about 10° and about 15° from the horizontal.

[0037] In one example the base platform comprises a means to inflate or evacuate so as to provide an adjustable incline. In one example the device is constructed from a plastics material.

[0038] In one example the device is modular.

[0039] Further aspects and examples will become apparent from the following disclosure with reference to the accompanying Figures.

[0040] Detailed Description

[0041] The present disclosure is described below with reference to specific examples and figures. However, other examples than the above described are equally possible within the scope of the disclosure. The different features and steps of the disclosure may be combined in other combinations than those described.

[0042] In this specification, where reference has been made to external sources of information, including patent specifications and other documents, this is generally for the purpose of providing a context for the description of the features described. Unless stated otherwise, reference to such sources of information is not to be construed, in any jurisdiction, as an admission that such sources of information are prior art or form part of the common general knowledge in the art.

[0043] Definitions

[0044] As used herein, the term “bore" in connection with the device means the volume or space within the device, in particular, the volume or space that receives a body part.

[0045] As used herein, the term “about" in connection with a referenced numeric indication means the referenced numeric indication plus or minus up to 10% of that referenced numeric indication. For example, the language “about 50" mm covers the range of 45 mm to 55 mm.

[0046] As used herein the term “and / or" means “and" or “or", both. As used herein “(s)" following a noun means the plural and / or singular forms of the noun.

[0047] The term “comprising" as used in this specification means, “including" or “consisting at least in part of". When interpreting statements in this specification which include that term, the features prefaced by that term in each statement all need to be present, but the other features can also be present. Related terms such as “comprise" and “comprised" are to be interpreted in the same matter. The entire disclosures of all applications, patents and publications, cited above and below, if any, are hereby incorporated by reference.

[0048] As used in this specification, the terms “comprises", “comprising", “includes", and “including" are to be construed as being inclusive and open-ended rather than exclusive. Specifically, when used in this specification, including the claims, the terms “comprises", “comprising", “includes", and “including" and variations thereof mean that the specified features, steps, or components are included. The terms are not to be interpreted to exclude the presence of other features, steps, or components.

[0049] The term “approximately" or “approximate" as used herein, means nearly or near to, or about, or close to. Alternatively, “approximately" or “approximate" means estimated, or inexact.

[0050] The term “substantially" as used herein, means for the most part, or mostly, or essentially, or to a great or significant extent.

[0051] Drawing Description

[0052] One or more examples of the disclosure will be described below with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0053] Figure 1 is a forward perspective view of a head elevation and support device.

[0054] Figure 2 is a side view of a head elevation and support device.

[0055] Figure 3 is a rear perspective view of a head elevation and support device.

[0056] Figure 4 is a perspective view of a head elevation and support device, in use, with a representation of a patient head.

[0057] Figure 5 is a side view of a head elevation and support device, in use, with a representation of a patient head.

[0058] Figure 6 is a side view of a patient positioned on a medical platform, such as a bed, with a portable NMR device positioned nearby.

[0059] Figure 7 is a side view of a head elevation and support device, in use and aligned with the bore of a portable NMR medical device positioned nearby.

[0060] Figure 8 is a perspective view of a patient’s head on a head elevation and support device, in use, about to be received into the bore of a portable NMR device.

[0061] Figure 9 is a side view of a patient's head on a head elevation and support device, in use, having been received into the bore of a portable NMR device.

[0062] Figure 10 is a perspective view of a head elevation and support device including cushioning materials.

[0063] Figure 11 is a perspective view of a head elevation and support device, in use, including a head restraint means. Figure 12 is a side view of a head elevation and support device, in use, including a moveable canthomeatal reference member in a vertical position.

[0064] Figure 13 is a side view of a head elevation and support device, in use, including a moveable canthomeatal reference member in a horizontal position.

[0065] Figure 14 is a perspective view of a head elevation and support device, in use, including a canthomeatal reference member comprising a reflective optical member.

[0066] Figure 15 is a perspective view of a head elevation and support device, in use, where the patient’s head is in a lateral position.

[0067] Figure 16 is a perspective view of a head elevation and support device, including an adjustable cantilevered platform, where the patient’s head is in a lateral position including an adjustable cantilevered platform.

[0068] With reference to Figures 1 to 4 a head elevation and support device 1 is shown. The device 1 includes a cantilevered platform 2 configured and shaped to elevate and support a head 3 of a patient when in use (see Figure 4). The cantilevered platform 2 is elevated above a horizontal plane 4 to provide an elevation and space 5 between the bottom surface 6 of the platform 2 and the horizontal plane 4. The device 1 preferably includes a substantially upright support 7 that provides the cantilevered platform at an elevation to create space 5. The upright support 7 may include any mechanism for adjustment (not shown), such as a linear ratchet or pantograph mechanism, to allow adjustment of the elevation that creates space 5. It is to be appreciated that other mechanisms for adjustment, either manual or automatic in operation, may be envisaged. The upright support 7 may be configured to include structural features 26, which are represented as strengthening ribs as shown in Figure 3. The upright support 7 is shaped to extend to the platform 2 via an intermediate curvilinear element 8. The curvilinear element 8 supports, at least in part, the neck of the patient when in use (see Figures 4 and 5).

[0069] With reference to Figures 1 and 2 the cantilevered platform 2 is configured in shape to provide a curved or concave profile 9 and comprises a first section 10 having a curved or concave profile and a second section 11 that is substantially semi-domed in shape. In this example, the curved or concave profile 9 of sections 10 and 11 is substantially semi-elliptical. It is to be appreciated that the optimal curvature of the curved or concave profile 9 will depend on the configuration of the internal surface of the bore 21 of the medical device, such as a NMR device 20 (see Figures 8 and 9). The curved or concave profile 9 of Sections 10 and 11 further extends upwardly to provide left and right sides 12 and 13, respectively - see Figures 1 to 3. In this example, sides 12 and 13 extend between about 50mm to about 60mm above sections 10 and 11 of platform 2. Side 12 may optionally provide a further adjacent alignment member 14, for example a groove or rail, that engages with the internal surface of a bore 21 of the medical device, such as an NMR I device 20, when in use. Side 13 may optionally provide a further adjacent alignment member 15 that engages with the internal surface of a bore 21 of the medical device, such as an NMR device 20, when in use. Alignment members 14 and 15 may serve as a means to guide the cantilevered platform 2 into a secure and optimal position within the bore 21 of a NMR device 20.

[0070] With reference to Figures 1 to 3, it can be seen that the upright support 7 in this example may be supported by a base platform 16 that extends substantially perpendicular to the upright support and in this example in a direction that extends in the opposite direction to the cantilevered platform 2. In this example the thickness of the base platform 16 is tapered, with the thickness of the base platform 16 (see 16(a) in Figures 1 and 2) at the end distal to the upright support 7 being less than the thickness of the base platform 16 (see 16(b) in Figures 1 and 2) proximal to the upright support 7. The base platform 16 preferably tapers from between about 20mm at its thickest to about 1mm at its thinnest, more preferably between about 15mm at its thickest to about 2mm at its thinnest, most preferably between about 10mm at its thickest to about 3.5mm at its thinnest. It is to be appreciated that other base platform configurations may be envisaged. For example, a base platform 16 may extend directly underneath the cantilevered platform 2 or the base platform 16 may be modular, providing a slot into which the upright support 7 engages. In one example the base platform 16 may include a conductive element (not shown) to support shielding of the NMR device 20 from EMI (Electromagnetic Interference), in particular RFI (Radio Frequency Interference). The conductive element may be composed of materials with RF shielding properties for example copper, aluminium, or specialised alloys such as Mu-Metal. It is to be appreciated that other RF shielding materials may be used, for example metal-infused textiles such as Copper-Polyester Taffeta. In a further example the base platform 16 may include at least one pickup coil (not shown) to detect external electromagnetic interference. The pickup coil(s) (not shown) may be composed of a conductive element, such as solid copper wire or Litz wire, wound into or around a plastic forming structure. It is to be appreciated that other conductive materials may be used, and the geometry of the forming structure may vary to provide optimal coverage for detecting electromagnetic interference.

[0071] With reference to Figures 4 and 5 the cantilevered platform 2 extends to accommodate from approximately the cervical region 18 to approximately the vertex point 19 on the head 3 of a patient 22. The cantilevered platform 2 preferably extends from the upright support 7 a distance of between about 150mm to about 250mm, more preferably between about 190 mm to about 220 mm. The radius of the domed section 11 is preferably between about 50mm and about 150mm, more preferably between about 70mm to 130mm and most preferably between about 90mm and 110mm.

[0072] With reference to Figure 8, it is desirable that section 11 is substantially domed in shape to facilitate self-centering alignment of platform 2 as it is received by the bore 21 of a NMR device 20. The complementary curvature between the substantially domed section 11 and the geometry of the bore 21 promotes coaxial alignment without requiring active adjustment. Additionally, the substantially domed configuration of section 11 serves to provide protection to the head 3 of a patient 22, when in use, against collision with the bore 21 of the NMR device 20.

[0073] With reference to Figure 9, it is desirable for the upright support 7 to be shaped and configured to conform, at least in part, with the bore 21 of a NMR device 20 to provide a physical and / or visual indication that the device 1 is sufficiently encompassed by the bore 21. In this example the upright support 7 is substantially vertical. The upright support 7 may optionally include a means of confirmation (not shown) intended to interface with the bore 21 of a NMR device 20, for example to provide a coupling function, such as with a snap fit, or a response between device 1 and device 20, such as with a switch component.

[0074] With reference to Figures 2 and 3 the bottom surface 6 of the cantilevered platform 2 is preferably elevated above the horizontal plane 4 by between about 50 mm to about 200 mm, more preferably about 75 mm to about 150 mm or most preferably about 90 mm to about 130 mm. It is to be appreciated that the optimal elevation, represented by space 5, will depend on the configuration of the NMR device 20. It is to be appreciated that alternative spacing may be necessary if a different configuration is required. In one example the length of the upright support 7 is adjustable to allow for dynamic adjustment as required.

[0075] With reference to Figures 4 and 5 a representative head 3 is shown in a supine position on the cantilevered platform 2. With reference to Figure 5 it can be seen that the sides 12 and 13 provide a cut away profile 27 to allow visual sight of the patient’s canthomeatal line 17. Having visual sight of the patient’s canthomeatal line 17 is desirable to allow for reproducible positioning of the head 3 of a patient 22 relative to the cantilevered platform 2. In this example the cut away profile 27 provides a substantially vertical reference member 28 against which the patient’s canthomeatal line 17 can be positioned, when in use. In this example the patient’s forward view is not obstructed. It is to be appreciated that in some embodiments the reference member 28 may extend across the forward view of the patient as in the example shown in Figure 12 and Figure 13. In this example the reference member 28 is an arm comprising spaced apart tines attached to device 1 at a pivot point by a pivot mechanism 33 that allows the arm to be at various positions. It may be desirable to set the reference member 28 at various positions to fulfill different functions. For example, as shown in Figure 12 the reference member 28 may be set in a substantially vertical position to support the relative positioning of a patient’s canthomeatal line 17, when in use. Alternatively, shown in Figure 13 the reference member 28 may be set in a substantially horizontal position for storage. In some embodiments, it is to be appreciated that there may be an optically transparent section 29 provided between the spaced apart tines. It is to be further appreciated that the pivot mechanism 33 may optionally include a locking and / or detent system comprising elements such as a spring-loaded ball, friction ring or two-way ratchet to set the reference member 28 at various positions. In a further example (not shown), where the cut away profile 27 does not allow visual sight of the patient’s canthomeatal line 17, the reference member 28 may comprise an optically transparent section 29 integrated into sides 12 and 13 to provide a line of sight to the canthomeatal line of a patient, when in use.

[0076] In some embodiments, such as in the example shown in Figure 14, the reference member 28 may also comprise a reflective optical member 34 configured to redirect the patient's line of sight by approximately 90 degrees relative to their natural line of sight 35, when in use. The inclusion of such optical members may be desirable to engage the patient's focus and / or to reduce feelings of claustrophobia when the head 3 of the patient 22 is in the bore 21 of the NMR device 20, when in use. This may have the further advantage of reducing voluntary motion of the head 3, when in use.

[0077] In use, a patient 22 presents with a suspected head injury and / or head pathology, such as stroke. The patient 22 may be in a location remote from a healthcare facility. The first responder(s) have access to a portable NMR device 20 and bring the device 20 to the patient 22 lying in a supine position on a bed or trolley 23 as shown in Figure 6. It is to be appreciated that the patient 22 may also be lying on any substantially horizontal surface such as the ground. In some embodiments the patient 22 may be lying in a lateral position as shown in Figure 15. The head 3 of a patient 22 is then elevated by using a head elevation and support device 1 as described above and as shown in Figure 7. It is to be appreciated that the elevation of the bed or trolley 23 may be adjusted as necessary or as required to bring the platform 2 into alignment with the bore 21 of the NMR device 20 as best shown in Figure 8. Once alignment is established, the portable NMR device 20 is moved to encompass the cantilevered platform 2 on which the head 3 of a patient 22 is supported. The head 3 of the patient 22 and the cantilevered platform 2 being received and encompassed by the bore 21 of the NMR device 20 is best shown in Figures 8 and 9. The head 3 of a patient is now able to be scanned in a controlled, repeatable and efficient manner.

[0078] In one example shown in Figure 10 the device 1 may further include a sheet of cushioning material 24 shaped to line the inside curved concave profile 9 of platform 2. It is to be appreciated that the cushioning material 24 may comprise a means to inflate or evacuate the cushioning material. This may be desirable to provide adjustable comfort and / or immobilisation of the head 3 of a patient 22 when in use. In a further example a cushioning material 25 that is substantially wedge-shaped may be included on the base platform 16. It is to be appreciated that, in some embodiments, the cushioning material 25 may be removable and may further be configured for interchangeability, for example with wedge elements having different angles or geometries. This modular configuration may be desirable to accommodate anatomical variability for patient comfort and positioning support, when in use. Cushioning materials 24 and 25 may be desirable to provide additional comfort and positioning support.

[0079] In some embodiments, the device 1 may further comprise a head restraint means 30 configured to attach to the platform 2. With reference to Figure 11, a representative head 3 is shown positioned on the cantilevered platform 2 with a head restraint means 30 configured to span across the forehead 31 of the head 3, when in use. It is to be appreciated that, in some embodiments, a head restraint means 30 may be configured to pass beneath the chin 32 of the head 3, when in use. The head restraint means 30 may be desirable to reduce motion of the head 3, when in use.

[0080] In some embodiments the patient 22 may be lying in a lateral position, when in use, as shown in Figure 15 and Figure 16. With reference to Figure 15, in this example the cut away profile 27 is shaped and configured to accommodate the head 3 of a patient in either a left or right lateral position, when in use, keeping the area in front of the patient’s airways clear. In this example the cut away profile 27 still provides a reference member 28 against which the patient’s canthomeatal line (not shown) can be positioned, when in use. With reference to Figure 16, in this example the cantilevered platform 2 is further configured to be rotatable, at least in part. In this example the cantilevered platform 2 comprises an adjustment mechanism (not shown) that provides a rotation to section 36 of the cantilevered platform 2 between about -90° and about 90° from the horizontal to support the head 3 in either a left or right lateral position, when in use. In this example the cantilevered platform 2 may also support the head 3 in a supine position, when in use, when the section 36 is at a position of about 0° from the horizontal. The adjustment mechanism may comprise a curvilinear track with ratcheting features, bearing elements including a detent system or some other indexing mechanism.

[0081] In one example the device 1 was machined from a thermoplastic blend of Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene (ABS) and Polycarbonate (PC) using Computer Numerical Control (CNC) machining. CNC machining is a precision manufacturing technique suitable for production of plastic products. It is to be appreciated that device 1 may be produced through the process of injection moulding. Polymer blends, such as ABS-PC, combine to produce desirable properties from both materials. The ABS-PC blend was selected because ABS contributes suitable impact resistance, toughness and dimensional stability which is enhanced by the addition of PC, with PC further contributing additional heat resistance and tensile strength. A further consideration in the material choice for the manufacture of device 1 was chemical resistance to cleaning and disinfection agents to maintain good hygiene. It is to be appreciated that the device 1 may be manufactured from other polymeric materials or blends offering similar or enhanced properties. The material from which to manufacture device 1 is preferably selected to be NMR-compatible and signal-null to minimise the risk of image artefacts during scanning. It is to be further appreciated that the device 1 may be produced through composite manufacturing processes, for example spray lay up or resin transfer moulding, using non-conductive fibre materials such as fibreglass and Kevlar.

[0082] In one example a low-friction, Ultra-High Molecular Weight (UHMW) Polyethylene tape was applied to the bottom surface 6 of platform 2 to facilitate a sliding motion between the surfaces of the bottom surface 6 of the platform 2 and the bore 21 of a NMR device 20. It is to be appreciated that a low- friction surface may also be achieved by application of a coating, for example a high-gloss varnish or PolyTetraFluoroEthylene (PTFE). It is to be further appreciated that any friction between the surfaces of the bottom surface 6 of the platform 2 and the bore 21 of a NMR device 20 may be managed through the inclusion of additional components, for example ball transfer units or other suitable bearings.

[0083] In one example the cushioning material 24 lining the cantilevered platform 2 was manufactured from a sheet of 3mm Ethylene-vinyl acetate (EVA) foam, being cut to the required profile. EVA is a closedcell foam that is lightweight, water-resistant and resilient, retaining its shape after repeated compression. It is to be appreciated that another material with similar or enhanced properties may also be used. The cushioning material 24 is preferably selected to be NMR-compatible and signal-null to minimise the risk of image artefacts during scanning. It is to be appreciated that the cushioning material 24 may be cut by any suitable means, for example by laser or water jet. It is to be further appreciated that the cushioning material 24 may be shaped, for example cut or moulded with a variable thickness, to provide enhanced positioning support to the head of a patient. In some embodiments the cushioning material 24 may comprise a means to inflate or evacuate the cushioning material so as to provide a means of padding various head sizes for comfort and immobilisation, when in use. For example the cushioning material 24 may comprise layers of flexible plastic together to create a receptacle of at least one compartment, the compartment(s) being filled with polymeric bead elements and the receptacle having at least one valve element for inflation and evacuation of the compa rtment(s). In one example the cushioning material 25 on the base platform 16 was cut from an open-cell foam and covered with a vinyl-coated fabric. Open-cell foams are typically soft, making them well-suited to providing comfort. However, open-cell foams are more permeable than closed-cell foams, meaning they can absorb liquids. Vinyl-coated fabrics provide suitable durability, chemical resistance and waterproofness, making them suitable for repeated use and cleaning. It is to be appreciated that other cushioning and covering materials with similar or enhanced properties may be used. In some embodiments the cushioning material 25 may comprise a means to inflate or evacuate the cushioning material so as to provide a variable incline between the substantially planar base platform 16 and the cantilevered platform 2, when in use. It is to be appreciated that the cushioning material 25 may be removably attached to the base platform 16 using velcro or other methods, for example straps or flaps. It is to be further appreciated that the cushioning material may be permanently attached to the base platform 16, for example by using a suitable adhesive.

[0084] Advantages

[0085] Traditional NMR devices used for medical purposes such as neuroimaging typically have a relatively large, controllable field of view (FOV) and produce high-resolution anatomical images. In contrast, portable NMR devices, such as those for bedside or point-of-care use, often have a smaller FOV and reduced image resolution. In such systems, precise and easily reproducible head positioning becomes critically important to ensure adequate coverage of the target anatomical region, acquisition of diagnostically meaningful signals, and reliable image interpretation.

[0086] A key advantage of the present device is that it comprises a reference member that can be positioned relative to readily visible and identifiable anatomical landmarks on the patient's head prior to being received within the bore of a portable NMR device, when in use. The canthomeatal line, sometimes referred to as the orbitomeatal line, is one such readily visible and identifiable anatomical landmark on a patient's head. The reference member included in the present device supports reproducible positioning of the patient's head with respect to the imaging volume, without the need for in-bore adjustments or requiring head position to be determined through a review of scan output. Firstly, by providing a reference member for aligning the canthomeatal line of the patient relative to a position on the device, the present invention facilitates the head of a patient being placed in a known and reproducible axial position within the cantilevered platform. The known position of the canthomeatal line then facilitates the reproducible positioning of a patient's head relative to the imaging volume as cantilevered platform is received into the bore of a NMR device, when in use. Further, the reference member being substantially vertical provides an indication of the optimal pitch angle of the head to avoid excessive flexion or extension of the neck, when in use. This provides the additional advantage of patient comfort, which may increase the tolerability of the scan for a range of patients and improve the quality of scan output.

[0087] In one embodiment, the present invention provides the advantage of accommodating the head of a patient lying in a traditional supine position as well as in one of two lateral positions. Accommodating the head of a patient in a lateral position provides an advantage of being more tolerable for some patients by improving airway patency and relieving stress on the cervical and lumbar spine. This can be a particular advantage for patients with impaired consciousness and / or patients who may have limited cervical spine mobility in the supine position, for example obese or hyperkyphotic patients. In one example the cantilevered platform may be rotatable, at least in part, which provides the advantage of maintaining the correct alignment of the reference member relative to the head of the patient, when in use. This rotation may additionally provide the advantage of facilitating feedback to the NMR device indication the patient's position, either supine or lateral, to the NMR device, for example by engagement with alignment member(s) or guide feature(s) in the bore. Furthermore, the elevation of a patient’s head by the device’s cantilevered platform provides the advantage of creating clearance between the patient’s head and the medical bed or trolley the patient is lying on, allowing the bore of a portable NMR device to move through the space provided by the elevation between the patient's head and the medical bed or trolley to encompass the head of the patient, when in use. In one example, the complementary curvature between the substantially domed section of the cantilevered platform and the bore of a portable NMR device facilitates passive coaxial alignment, thereby reducing the need for precise manual positioning or active adjustment.

[0088] Traditional NMR devices typically have integrated, motorised patient tables that facilitate in-bore adjustments to positioning. In contrast, portable NMR devices may be intended for use with standard patient beds, trolleys or with any substantially horizontal surface. The present device provides the advantages in that it facilitates controlled and repeatable positioning of a patient’s head, when in use, for assessment by a portable NMR device. In one example, the present device has a substantially planar platform that is designed to be slidable under the thoracic segment of a patient positioned as normal on a standard medical bed, trolley or platform. As such, the present device does not require the patient to be transferred to a platform dedicated for use with the NMR device, minimising the degree of patient transfer and handling effort required from clinical staff. Some embodiments of the present device may also be used to elevate and support the head of a patient positioned on any substantially horizontal surface such as the ground, which may be particularly advantageous for use with a portable NMR device in a location remote from a healthcare facility. In one embodiment, the present invention provides the additional technical advantage of incorporating a shielding element configured to reduce ambient electromagnetic interference (EMI), in particular patient-mediated coupling pathways wherein the patient may act as a passive antenna and introduce environmental noise into the system. Traditional NMR devices are typically operated within shielded rooms where EMI is well controlled through environmental isolation. However, this shielding infrastructure is not inherently present in portable NMR devices. This presents a particular challenge, where the signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) is inherently low and more susceptible to degradation by ambient electromagnetic noise, potentially compromising image quality and diagnostic utility. By integrating shielding directly, the present invention addresses this challenge, enabling improved EMI mitigation and supporting the optimization of SNR in portable, unshielded environments. Integrating shielding into the present device improves the effectiveness of the EMI mitigation by placing the shielding material close to the head region being scanned. In another embodiment, the present invention includes at least one pickup coil to detect external electromagnetic interference. The inclusion of a pickup coil provides the advantage of being able to feedback measured electromagnetic interference to the NMR device to support noise monitoring and active denoising, improving the quality and reliability of scan output. The integration of shielding and / or at least one pickup coil reduces the time required to set up a patient for scanning because placing additional shielding, grounding, or noise pickup devices or blankets on the patient is not required.

[0089] It is to be appreciated that other configurations or modifications may be made to the shape and configuration and / or materials and methods of manufacture of the head elevation and support device in addition to those outlined above without departing from the spirit or scope of the invention.

[0090] Where in the description reference has been made to integers having known equivalents thereof, those equivalents are herein incorporated as if individually set forth. Although the invention has been described in connection with specific examples, it should be understood that the invention as claimed should not be unduly limited to such specific examples. It is appreciated that further modifications and variations may be made to the examples as described herein without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention.

Claims

Claims1. A head elevation and support device, comprising a cantilevered platform configured and shaped to elevate and support a head of a patient, when in use, the cantilevered platform providing an elevation above a horizontal plane on which the body of a patient is positioned, when in use, the elevation providing a space between the base of the elevated cantilevered platform and the horizontal plane to allow access under the platform supporting the patient’s head, when in use; the cantilevered platform further comprising a reference member for the relative positioning of the patient’s canthomeatal line, when in use; and wherein the cantilevered platform is further configured and shaped to be received into a bore of a NMR device, when in use.

2. The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein the cantilevered platform comprises a substantially upright support that provides the cantilevered platform at an elevation, the upright support being shaped to extend, at least in part, along the neck of the patient, when in use.

3. The device as claimed in claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the elevation of the cantilevered platform above the horizontal plane is between about 50 mm to about 200 mm.

4. The device as claimed in any one of claim 1 to 3 wherein the elevation of the cantilevered platform above the horizontal plane is between about 75 mm to about 150 mm.

5. The device as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the elevation of the cantilevered platform above the horizontal plane is between about 90 mm to about 130 mm.

6. The device as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the elevation of the cantilevered platform is adjustable.

7. The device as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the canthomeatal reference member comprises an optically transparent section to provide a line of sight to the canthomeatal line of a patient, when in use.

8. The device as claimed in any one of claims Ito 7 wherein the canthomeatal reference member is an arm comprising spaced apart tines attached to the cantilevered platform at a pivot pointby a pivot mechanism that allows the arm to be securely positioned in either a substantially vertical or substantially horizontal position; the spaced apart tines when in a substantially vertical position aligning with the canthomeatal line of a patient, when in use.

9. The device as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the cantilevered platform is configured in shape to provide a curved concave profile that extends to a distal end to support from approximately the cervical spine of the patient to approximately the vertex point on the patient’s head at the distal end, when in use.

10. The device as claimed in claim 9, wherein the curved concave profile is cut away to keep the area above the patient’s face clear, when in use.

11. The device as claimed in claim 9 or claim 10 wherein the curved concave profile of the cantilevered platform at the distal end to the cantilever is substantially dome shaped.

12. The device as claimed in any one of claims 9 to 11 wherein the curved concave profile of the cantilevered platform is shaped and configured to complement an internal surface of the bore to the NMR device.

13. The device as claimed in any one of claims 9 to 12 wherein the curved concave profile has one or more alignment members designed to engage with one or more complementary features within the bore of the NMR device.

14. The device as claimed in any one of claims 2 to 13, wherein the upright support extends into a further platform that provides a substantially planar base platform that slides under the patient’s thoracic segment, when in use.

15. The device as claimed in any one of claims I to 14, wherein the cantilevered platform is further configured to be rotatable between about -90° and about 90° from the horizontal to accommodate a head in either a left or right lateral position, when in use.

16. The device as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 15, wherein the cantilevered platform further comprises at least one head restraint means configured to reduce motion of the patient's head, when in use.

17. The device as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 16, wherein the device further comprises a reflective optical member configured to redirect the patient's line of sight by approximately 90° relative to their natural line of sight, when in use.

18. The device as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 17, wherein the cantilevered platform is lined with a cushioning material.

19. The device as claimed in claim 18, wherein the cushioning material lining the cantilevered platform comprises a means to inflate or evacuate so as to provide adjustable comfort, immobilisation of the patient’s head, or both, when in use.

20. The device as claimed in any one of claims 14 to 19, wherein the planar base platform further includes a conductive material to shield the NMR device against external electromagnetic interference and patient grounding.

21. The device as claimed in any one of claims 14 to 20, wherein the planar base platform includes at least one pickup coil to detect external electromagnetic interference.

22. The device as claimed in any one of claims 14 to 21, wherein a cushioning material is applied to the base platform.

23. The device as claimed in claim 22, wherein the cushioning material covering the base platform is removable.

24. The device as claimed in claim 22 or claim 23, wherein the cushioning material covering the base platform provides an incline of between about 0° and about 45° from the horizontal.

25. The device as claimed in any one of claims 22 to 24, wherein the cushioning material covering the base platform provides an incline of between about 5° and about 30° from the horizontal.

26. The device as claimed in any one of claims 22 to 25, wherein the cushioning material covering the base platform provides an incline of between about 10° and about 15° from the horizontal.

27. The device as claimed in any one of claims 14 to 26, wherein the base platform comprises a means to inflate or evacuate the base material so as to provide an adjustable incline.

28. The device as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 27, wherein the device is constructed from a plastics material.

29. The device as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 28, wherein the device is modular.

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