Adjustable Skull Clamp for Stable Imaging With Fewer Artifacts

The patent removes traditional metallic components (screws, clips, rigid connectors) that cause image artifacts and replaces them with alternative materials and designs. The frame uses non-magnetic or low-artifact materials, and connections are achieved through friction-fit and geometric interlocking rather than metallic fasteners, thereby extracting the harmful metallic elements while preserving stabilization function.

The patent changes the material parameters of the skull clamp components. Instead of traditional metals, it uses materials with specific magnetic and radiological properties that minimize image artifacts. The frame material, stabilization assembly materials, and connection mechanisms are all selected and designed to have parameters optimized for reduced imaging interference while maintaining mechanical stability.

The patent incorporates dynamic, adjustable components throughout the structure. The frame includes adjustable spacing mechanisms that allow modification of distances between stabilization assemblies. The stabilization assemblies themselves have adjustable force application capabilities. These dynamic features enable the system to adapt to different patient anatomies and procedural requirements while maintaining stability during imaging through proper locking and fixation mechanisms.

The skull clamp is divided into modular segments: an adjustable frame structure, multiple independent stabilization assemblies, and separate connection mechanisms. This segmentation allows each component to be independently adjusted and optimized. The frame can be configured in different geometries, stabilization assemblies can be positioned independently, and force application can be tuned for each contact point, providing versatility without compromising overall structural stability.

The patent employs composite material construction for the skull clamp components. The frame and stabilization assemblies use materials that combine mechanical strength with low artifact generation properties. This may include high-strength polymers, carbon fiber composites, or specially engineered alloys with optimized magnetic and radiological characteristics. These composite materials provide the necessary structural integrity to safely stabilize the patient's head while minimizing interference with MRI and CT imaging.

The patent describes a disposable skull clamp design where the entire device or key components are intended for single use. This disposable approach eliminates the need for complex, expensive metallic construction that would require sterilization and repeated use. The disposable nature allows optimization for imaging compatibility without compromising strength, as each new device provides fresh, sterile, artifact-minimized components for the procedure.