Anatomic Positioning Device Shoulder Void for Cervical Imaging
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current systems for positioning patients during radiographic imaging of the cervical spine often fail to provide clear and unobstructed images due to obstruction by the subject's shoulders, which can impede the clarity and usefulness of the images necessary for accurate diagnosis and surgical outcomes.
Innovation Solution
An anatomic positioning device comprising a shoulder positioner with a shoulder member, handle, and supports forming a void to create an unobstructed view, allowing for independent movement and intermittent manual pressure to displace soft tissue and improve visualization of the cervical spine, made from radiolucent materials for compatibility with medical imaging technologies.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If the patient is positioned for radiographic imaging of the cervical spine, then the imaging procedure can be performed, but the subject's shoulders obstruct the view of the cervical spine reducing image clarity
Solution Approach 1:
The device extracts and removes the obstructing shoulder from the imaging field by providing support and elevation to the shoulder, separating it from the cervical spine region to eliminate the obstruction and allow clear visualization of the cervical vertebrae
Solution Approach 2:
The positioning device acts as an intermediary element between the patient's body and the imaging system, using supports and positioning members to indirectly manipulate shoulder position and achieve the desired unobstructed view of the cervical spine
2Measurement precision
If a positioning device is introduced to improve cervical spine visualization, then image clarity is enhanced, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The positioning device is divided into separate functional components including supports, positioning members, and adjustment mechanisms that can be independently configured, allowing the device to achieve complex positioning goals through simple, modular elements
Solution Approach 2:
The device applies positioning and support functions only at specific locations where needed (shoulder region, cervical spine area) rather than requiring a comprehensive complex structure, using localized supports and positioning members to achieve global imaging goals
Data Source
AI summary
An anatomic positioning device is described. The anatomic positioning device includes a shoulder member, a handle, and two supports disposed between the shoulder member and the handle to connect the shoulder member to the handle.