Pivoting Compression Paddle for Mammography Imaging
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current mammography and tomosynthesis systems cause discomfort during breast compression, especially in the MLO orientation, due to inadequate adjustment and force distribution, leading to discomfort and potential tissue squeezing.
Innovation Solution
A laterally movable and pivotable compression paddle system that automatically adjusts to different imaging orientations and views, utilizing biasing elements to maintain comfort while ensuring sufficient compressive force, and can be easily removed and remounted for different imaging modes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a stationary compression paddle is used, then sufficient compressive force is maintained, but patient discomfort increases due to inadequate adjustment for different orientations
Solution Approach 1:
The compression paddle is transformed from a stationary component to a dynamic one capable of pivoting about a sagittal axis. This allows the paddle to rotate and conform to the breast tissue in different orientations (CC, MLO, etc.), significantly improving patient comfort while maintaining compression effectiveness through controlled movement.
Solution Approach 2:
The paddle assembly is segmented into a compression paddle component and a support structure component that can move independently. The paddle can pivot relative to the support about a sagittal axis, allowing independent adjustment of the compression surface orientation while maintaining overall system functionality.
2Ease of operation
If a freely rotating paddle is used, then patient comfort is improved through conformance, but sufficient compressive force is not achieved
Solution Approach 1:
A spring mechanism is introduced to apply a preliminary counteracting force that biases the paddle toward a neutral position. This spring force prevents the paddle from rotating freely by providing resistance that must be overcome to achieve rotation, thereby ensuring sufficient compressive force is maintained while still allowing controlled conformance to the breast tissue.
3Force
If the paddle is locked into a selected position, then compressive force is maintained, but patient comfort is reduced due to lack of conformance
Solution Approach 1:
The system transitions from a statically locked paddle to a dynamically adjustable one. The paddle can pivot about a sagittal axis to conform to different breast orientations and shapes, improving comfort while maintaining compression through the controlled dynamic adjustment rather than fixed positioning.
4Adaptability or versatility
If multiple paddles are used for different orientations, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
A single compression paddle is designed to perform multiple functions by pivoting about a sagittal axis. This universal paddle can accommodate various imaging orientations (cranial-caudal, mediolateral-oblique, etc.) and breast sizes through rotation, eliminating the need for multiple specialized paddles and reducing overall device complexity.
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
The system reduces patient discomfort by allowing for adjustable and conformable breast compression, maintaining effective compressive force across various imaging orientations and modes, enhancing the comfort and efficiency of breast imaging procedures.
Implementation Method 1
a pivot mechanism connecting the paddle to the compression arm assembly housing, wherein the pivot mechanism defines an axis of rotation substantially parallel to the sagittal plane of the patient, and wherein the pivot mechanism includes at least one biasing element for biasing the paddle into the rest position
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3
AI summary
A system has an imaging system housing and an x-ray source, thereto, a compression arm assembly housing, a support, and a detector. A paddle is disposed between the support and the x-ray source. A bottom surface of the paddle at least partially defines a plane. When in a rest position, the plane is substantially parallel to the support. A pivot mechanism connects the paddle to the compression arm assembly housing. The pivot mechanism defines an axis of rotation substantially parallel to a sagittal plane of the patient. The pivot mechanism has at least one biasing element for biasing the paddle into the rest position.