Gamma Knife Head Frame Stabilization Device
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current stabilization devices for gamma knife radiation therapy require a second person to hold the patient's head and head frame, leading to nurse strain and increased risk of injury, as they do not adequately account for the fiducial box and are not compatible with the gamma knife machine, causing chronic pain and joint damage.
Innovation Solution
A stabilization device that holds the full weight of the patient's head and head frame, featuring adjustable components, hypoallergenic materials, and antibacterial properties, allowing for secure and comfortable placement without obstructing medical access, and accommodating various patient sizes and positions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If a second person holds the patient's head and head frame during placement, then the frame can be stabilized, but nurse strain and risk of injury increase
Solution Approach 1:
The stabilization device uses the patient's own head weight and the head frame structure to stabilize themselves during placement, eliminating the need for external manual support. The device includes a support structure that contacts the patient's head and a clamping mechanism that secures the head frame, allowing the system to self-stabilize without requiring a second person to hold it.
Solution Approach 2:
The stabilization device acts as an intermediary between the patient's head and the head frame, providing mechanical support and stabilization. The device includes intermediate components such as a support structure with contact surfaces for the patient's head, connecting elements, and clamping mechanisms that mediate the interaction between the head, head frame, and fiducial box, distributing forces and eliminating the need for direct manual stabilization.
2Ease of operation
If current stabilization devices are used, then head frame placement can proceed, but they do not account for the fiducial box and are not compatible with gamma knife machine
Solution Approach 1:
The stabilization device is designed with multi-functionality to accommodate multiple components and procedures. It can simultaneously support the patient's head, secure the head frame, and accommodate the fiducial box attachment. The device includes adjustable components and multiple contact points that can adapt to different configurations required for gamma knife procedures, making it universally applicable to this specific medical procedure.
Solution Approach 2:
The stabilization device incorporates dynamic and adjustable features that allow it to adapt during the placement procedure. The support structure can be adjusted to accommodate different patient head sizes and positions, and the clamping mechanism can be dynamically adjusted to secure the head frame and fiducial box in the correct positions. This dynamic adaptability ensures compatibility with the specific requirements of gamma knife procedures.
3Productivity
If the patient is under sedation or general anesthesia, then the procedure can be performed, but the patient cannot help stabilize their head, increasing strain on the nurse
Solution Approach 1:
The stabilization device is designed to work independently of patient participation. The support structure contacts the patient's head to prevent movement, and the clamping mechanism secures the head frame without requiring the patient to actively stabilize their own head. This self-service capability allows the procedure to be completed under sedation or anesthesia without increasing nurse strain, as the device assumes the stabilization function that would otherwise require patient cooperation.
Data Source
AI summary
Various implementations include a head frame holding device. The device includes a base, a head rest, and at least one head frame holder. The head rest has a first end coupled to the base and a second end spaced apart from the first end. The at least one head frame holder has a first end coupled to the base and a second end spaced apart from the first end. The second end of the at least one head frame holder includes a head frame coupler for coupling the head frame to the device.