Dynamic Myelography Positioning for Adjustable Slope and Pressure Measurement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current dynamic myelography positioning devices are inadequate for adjusting patient orientation and height/angle based on individual patient dimensions, leading to suboptimal patient fit, safety issues, and limitations in measuring spinal opening pressure or increasing spinal pressure during imaging procedures.
Innovation Solution
A dynamic myelography positioning device with a frame, pivot mechanism, and actuator that allows for adjustable height and slope changes, featuring non-metallic patient-supporting structures and actuators to facilitate precise patient positioning and image acquisition.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If foam wedge is used under patient hips, then patient elevation is achieved, but device adjustability and patient fit are insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The positioning device incorporates an adjustable mechanism that allows dynamic modification of the wedge angle and height to accommodate patients of different body types and procedural requirements, transforming a static foam wedge into a dynamically adaptable positioning system
Solution Approach 2:
The device enables changing of geometric parameters (angle, height, length) of the positioning wedge through mechanical adjustment, allowing optimization of patient positioning for different anatomical dimensions and procedural needs
2Productivity
If patient is positioned on foam wedge, then contrast movement towards top of spine is facilitated, but measurement of spinal opening pressure and pressure manipulation are precluded
Solution Approach 1:
The positioning system is divided into separable components that allow the patient to be positioned on the adjustable wedge for contrast flow, while enabling easy repositioning to a horizontal state for pressure measurement and manipulation procedures
Solution Approach 2:
The adjustable positioning device can be dynamically reconfigured between different angular positions, allowing transition from an elevated position that promotes contrast flow to a horizontal position that enables accurate pressure measurement and manipulation
3Adaptability or versatility
If inflatable mattress is used, then patient can begin in horizontal position for pressure measurement, but patient safety and reproducibility are compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The mechanical adjustable wedge provides controlled and reproducible positioning through defined angular adjustments, replacing the less reliable inflatable mattress system while maintaining the ability to transition between horizontal and elevated positions for different procedural phases
Solution Approach 2:
The invention replaces the inflatable mattress system with a more reliable, reusable adjustable wedge structure that provides consistent positioning without the safety concerns associated with inflatable systems
4Ease of manufacture
If conventional myelography is performed, then diagnostic imaging is obtained, but diagnostic accuracy for transient leaks is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The adjustable positioning device enables preliminary optimization of patient orientation and contrast flow direction before image acquisition, allowing transient leaks to be more readily visualized through controlled gravitational forces applied during the imaging process
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables accurate and safe patient positioning for dynamic myelography, allowing for effective measurement of spinal opening pressure and contrast flow manipulation, enhancing diagnostic accuracy and patient safety.
Implementation Method 1
An actuator is in operable communication with at least a portion of the frame and is configured to change the height and slope of at least a portion of the frame
Implementation Method 2
A dynamic myelography positioning device with a frame, pivot mechanism, and actuator that allows for adjustable height and slope changes
Data Source
AI summary
A method of performing dynamic myelography and a dynamic myelography positioning device configured to alter the orientation of a patient easily and quickly. The device is configured to move a patient from a generally flat laying position into a sloped or partially sloped position. In some embodiments, the device is attachable or configured to rest upon an existing imaging table. The device includes a frame with a patient supporting structure integrated with or attached to the frame. A pivot mechanism having a rotational axis enables the two ends of the frame to fold towards each other. An actuator is in operable communication with the frame to control the degree of rotation of the ends of the frame about the rotational axis of the pivot mechanism.