Abstract: An apparatus and method for dynamically controlling the generation of radiation pulses during pulse-type fluoroscopic imaging. Brightness of an image produced by a pulse is detected, converted to a digital value and compared to an acceptable predetermined value range. If the brightness is not acceptable, the pulse rate is reset to a predetermined, relatively fast rate and the energy level for the next pulse adjusted up or down to increase or decrease the brightness as necessary. Once the brightness is found to be acceptable, the pulse rate is returned to the original pulse rate. If it is determined that motion is occurring, the pulse rate will increase to the relatively fast predetermined pulse rate to provide substantially real-time imaging. If the brightness becomes unacceptable for a pulse during the period of motion, the energy level for the subsequent pulse will be adjusted.

Abstract: A precision mammographic needle biopsy system in which a patient having a suspected non-palpable lesion of the breast lies on a table having a breast aperture therein through which the patient's breast pendulantly protrudes includes a compression paddle for selectively compressing the breast against an X-ray film holder to firmly hold the breast in a suitable projection; a radially pivoting X-ray arm arranged to direct an X-ray beam in horizontal alignment with the patient's breast onto an X-ray film; a radially pivoting X-ray film holder arm supporting both the X-ray film holder and a puncture instrument holding a biopsy needle having adjustable azimuth angle, elevation angle, and insertion depth parameters; and a computer-digitizer console including a cursor and having a light box digitizer view area for viewing and digitizing a point of interest depicted in two stereoscopic X-ray images of the patient's breast, a computer for analyzing the relative positions of the point of interest depicted on the two ste

Abstract: A bi-directional dual-slide support mechanism providing support and extended travel for X-ray system components, such as an image intensifier, includes a primary slide driven bi-directionally over a primary range of travel by a motorized rack and pinion arrangement and a secondary slide in telescoping relationship with the primary slide driven bi-directionally in concert with the primary slide by stationary belts coupled over roller members positioned at opposite ends of the primary slide, the belts being secured to a fixed frame member and to the secondary slide.

Abstract: Spot film apparatus which includes a menu-driven microprocessor for producing control signals to position a film cassette as required to carry out operations in a manner shown on a display. The spot film apparatus includes an improved carriage assembly which comprises a pair of opposing holding arms which conform with the film cassette. The opposing holding arms are biased towards each other with a helical spring. Loading of a cassette into the arms is accomplished by moving one arm with a continuous chain drive which supports a pawl-like member projecting therefrom, while maintaining the position of the second arm.

Abstract: A table positioner is disclosed for use with radiographic equipment to cause smooth translating and continuous angular movement of the table in reciprocal directions from a lengthwise horizontal position to lengthwise vertical positions. When in a lengthwise horizontal position, the positioner causes the top of the table to have a sufficiently low vertical height above floor level to enhance utilization of the radiographic equipment for imaging of a patient on the table, and yet still allows lengthwise angular movement of the table from this low horizontal positioning to full vertical positioning with the then lower end of the table being maintained in a position close to floor level but precluding floor contact during any portion of table movement.

Abstract: A surgical table is disclosed which includes a base and a first planar table surface which is fixedly mounted to the base. A second planar table surface is mounted to the base by means of a linear guide such that the second table surface is positioned in the plane of the first table surface and is movable toward and away from the first table surface. A third table surface is interconnected between the first and second table surfaces. This third table surface is formed of a bendable material and is provided with a cylindrically convex shape. The radius of curvature of this convex shape varies as a function of the linear position of the first table surface with respect to the second table surface. Preferably, the third table surface is formed of an X-ray transparent material. Articulated leg brackets allow the height and tilt angle of the table to be adjusted.