Abstract: A multi-modality imaging system including first and second imaging modality units having respective field of views (FOVs) that are spaced apart from each other. The imaging system also having a positioning system that includes an imaging pallet. The pallet has an elongated support body that includes first and second portions that extend lengthwise along the support body. The first portion is shaped for imaging within the FOV of the first modality unit, and the second portion is shaped for imaging within the FOV of the second modality unit. The first and second portions are shaped differently than each other. The positioning system is configured to position the first portion of the pallet within the FOV of the first modality unit and configured to position the second portion of the pallet within the FOV of the second modality unit.

Abstract: A gap protection device for an examining table includes a guide rail, a protecting chain and a rigid rope. The guide rail is fixed onto the non-moving part of the examining table. One end of the protecting chain is fixed onto the body of the examining table and is movable along the guide rail so as to cover the gap between the body and the non-moving part of the examining table. The two ends of the rigid rope are respectively connected to the two ends of the protecting chain. When the examining table is moved, the closed loop formed by the protecting chain and the rigid rope circulates synchronously under the drive of the examining table, such that the protecting chain covers the gap between the body and the non-moving part of the examining table.

Abstract: A support 56, 256, 356 for use with a surgical table 40, 140, 240, 340, 400 includes a first radiolucent beam 58, 258, 464 having a longitudinal axis and a second radiolucent beam 59, 259, 466 having a longitudinal axis. The first beam 58, 258, 464 and second beam 59, 259, 466 are each coupled to the deck 52, 252, 352 and extend outwardly therefrom in a cantilevered configuration.

Abstract: A patient care apparatus comprises a platform carrying a mattress configured to allow the care of and facilitate the transfer of a patient from one support platform to another support platform with minimal stimulation or disruption to the patient. The patient care apparatus further comprises of a base designed to allow the platform to be used on any stationary or mobile patient support platform including a mechanism for lifting the patient.

Abstract: A patient support device for a radiation therapy treatment system and a method of manufacturing the same. The device includes a support having an upper surface and a lower surface and a fixture hole configuration that receives a patient fixation device. The fixture hole configuration includes at least one recess and reinforcing material positioned inside at least a portion of the at least one recess. The device may also include a lower support having an upper surface that includes at least one channel. Flat flex cable used to operate the patient support device is positioned within the at least one channel.

Abstract: There is provided a PET-MRI hybrid apparatus and method for integrating a PET image and an MRI image so that anatomical, hemodynamical and molecular information on human tissues are simultaneously presented in a single image. The PET-MRI hybrid system comprises a first scanner for obtaining anatomical and hemodynamical information, and a second scanner for obtaining molecular and functional information on the human tissues. Along a path between the first scanner and the second scanner, a transferring railway system which includes runs, and a movable bed for supporting a subject installed on the railway. The PET-MRI hybrid system also comprises a “RF+ magnetic” shield and a “magnetic” shield between path between the first scanner and the second scanner, which switch between an open status and a close status in a completely synchronized manner to assure a complete magnetic shield for the PET system at any given time.

Abstract: This invention discloses a method and apparatus to deliver medical devices to targeted locations within human tissues using imaging data. The method enables the target location to be obtained from one imaging system, followed by the use of a second imaging system to verify the final position of the device. In particular, the invention discloses a method based on the initial identification of tissue targets using MR imaging, followed by the use of ultrasound imaging to verify and monitor accurate needle positioning. The invention can be used for acquiring biopsy samples to determine the grade and stage of cancer in various tissues including the brain, breast, abdomen, spine, liver, and kidney. The method is also useful for delivery of markers to a specific site to facilitate surgical removal of diseased tissue, or for the targeted delivery of applicators that destroy diseased tissues in-situ.

Abstract: A patient positioning system for radiotherapy, comprising a device for positioning a patient within the framework of treatment planning, using image detection and/or carrying out radiation treatment, comprising a patient bed on which a patient is positioned, wherein means are provided by which the same bed may be arranged both on a planning couch for image detection within the framework of treatment planning as well as on a radiotherapy table, and by providing a reference means on the patient bed by which the position of the immobilized patient or of a marked radiation target is determined with respect to the patient bed. Within this framework, a corresponding method is also provided, as well as an adjusting means for the transport and the bed.

Abstract: A medical imaging system for imaging a region of interest (ROI) in a patient. The imaging system includes an imaging modality unit having a field of view (FOV) and an examination platform. The examination platform has a pair of opposite ends and a platform surface extending therebetween along an examination axis. The platform surface extends into the FOV. The imaging system also includes a patient transport belt that is supported by the examination platform and extends along the platform surface between the ends of the examination platform. The imaging system also includes a motor that is operatively coupled to and configured to move the transport belt along the platform surface in a direction along the examination axis. The motor moves the transport belt so that a predetermined portion of the transport belt is within the FOV.

Abstract: A patient support device for positioning the anatomy of a patient during a medical procedure includes a base and a handle. The base is supported on the top of a patient support table. The handle protrudes from a proximal side of the base. Both the base and the handle are made from a biocompatible, radiolucent material that is capable of being used during a radiographic procedure.

Abstract: A patient table includes a cradle for slidably receiving a board carrying a patient, a cradle supporting member for slidably receiving the cradle, a locker for preventing the board from sliding off the cradle, and a stopper for preventing the cradle from sliding off the cradle supporting member. A method of transferring a patient to an imaging system from a second table uses the patient table to move the board from the second table to the patient table to the imaging system. An RF coil system usable with the table includes a coil, a coil cable, an intermediate box for receiving the coil cable, and a system cable extending from the intermediate box and connected to the imaging system.

Abstract: A patient positioning couch for a combined medical examination device is disclosed. In at least one embodiment, at least one opening is provided in a support plate of the patient positioning couch and the patient positioning couch includes at least one conveyor belt in order to move a patient on the support plate in the longitudinal direction.

Abstract: A simplify mobile patient support apparatus which is suitable for an examination of a patient by a magnetic resonance tomography system is proposed. A first and second actuation facility and a control facility are used. Depending on the operating state of the patient support apparatus whether is docked with or undocked from the magnetic resonance tomography system, actuation of the first and second actuation facilities results either in the coupling or uncoupling of the patient support apparatus to/from the magnetic resonance tomography system or the raising or lowering of a patient support plate of the patient support apparatus. Essential components for docking or undocking or for the vertical adjustment of the patient support plate are integrated in a hydraulic unit.

Abstract: A patient supporting apparatus used in medical imaging technologies has an inventive tabletop and stretcher system. The tabletop has a gap or narrowing of prescribed location and size, for example, more than thirty percent of the width of the tabletop is removed inferior to the patient's pelvis within a region of at least 0.3 meters in length. The stretcher supports the tabletop and includes a gap or narrowing so that the access of the operator's hand, arm, and line of sight is not obstructed from the gap or narrowing of the tabletop.

Abstract: A method and device for accurately easily and accurately positioning patients with breast cancer in the prone position for imaging and radiotherapy is disclosed. The device is a couch or support structure with a double-layer structure that allows relative planar motion between the two layers. To easily slide the top layer, an array of ball transfer units is embedded on the upper side of the bottom layer while the under side of the top layer has a corresponding array of bearing plates to prevent the ball transfer units from grinding into the top layer. A locking mechanism is specially designed to interlock the two layers safely when a knob handle is tightened. A frame of bars is attached to the bottom layer to constrain translation of the top layer. Each layer has two openings for the through insertion of breasts. When a patient lies in the prone position, the breast to be treated is pendent through the couch, and the untreated breast may be blocked from radiation exposure by a removable opening cover.

Abstract: A system for immobilizing tissue during upright radiotherapy including a first support element and a second support element tilted with respect to each other and operative to apply pressure on opposite sides of a patient positioned therebetween so as to generally immobilize a target located in the patient, the first and second support elements being mounted on mounting members that are connected to a turntable operative to rotate the patient about a vertical rotational axis.

Abstract: A medical system has an electromagnetic navigation system and a patient bed that supports a patient during a medical procedure assisted by the navigation system. The navigation system includes at least one field coil that is integrated in the patient bed at a defined position.

Abstract: According to one embodiment, a head restraint attached to a top of a bed of one of a medical image diagnosis apparatus and a medical treatment apparatus, the head restraint comprises a headrest portion configured to allow a head of an object to be placed thereon, with the object being placed on the top, and an arm up holder configured to be detachable from the headrest portion and place an arm of the object near one of a vertex of the head of the object and a temple of the head when the head of the object is placed on the headrest portion.

Abstract: The invention described herein provides systems and methods for multi-modal imaging with light and a second form of imaging. Light imaging involves the capture of low intensity light from a light-emitting object. A camera obtains a two-dimensional spatial distribution of the light emitted from the surface of the subject. Software operated by a computer in communication with the camera may then convert two-dimensional spatial distribution data from one or more images into a three-dimensional spatial representation. The second imaging mode may include any imaging technique that compliments light imaging. Examples include magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and computer topography (CT). An object handling system moves the object to be imaged between the light imaging system and the second imaging system, and is configured to interface with each system.

Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention may provide a cradle transferring device, which moves and withdraws a cradle to and from an examination table of an MRI apparatus in a PET-MRI hybrid system. The cradle transferring device includes: a cradle, on which a subject lies; a shuttle table supporting the cradle and moving and withdrawing the cradle to and from the examination table of the MRI apparatus; and a cradle receiving member provided on the examination table of the MRI apparatus. The shuttle table is provided with a transfer member for holding and transferring the cradle and a transfer member driving means for reciprocating the transfer member along the shuttle table. The cradle transferring device is further provided with a cradle locking means, which locks the cradle to the examination table after the cradle is moved to the examination table.

Abstract: The invention relates to a positioning device for positioning a patient in a medical device comprising a patient receiving device for placing a patient and a robot arm having a plurality of movement axes for positioning the patient receiving device in a room. The positioning device can be placed into a manual operating mode in which a position of the patient receiving device in the room can be changed manually. The invention also relates to a method for operating the positioning device, comprising: providing a normal operating mode for positioning the patient receiving device automatically at a position predefined by a control device; providing a manual operating mode for manually changing a position of the patient receiving device; and switching from the normal operating mode into the manual operating mode if a switchover condition is present. The invention further relates to an irradiation device having the positioning device.

Abstract: A patient positioning apparatus for a magnetic resonance device is provided. The patient positioning apparatus includes a positioning unit with a fixing side for fixing to the magnetic resonance device, a supporting frame extending horizontally starting from the fixing side and being arranged in a vertically adjustable fashion on the positioning unit, a patient plate mounted in a moveable fashion on the supporting frame, and a vertical adjusting mechanism operable to vertically adjust the supporting frame, the vertical adjusting mechanism has a first drive motor disposed on a side within the supporting frame that is remote from the fixing side.

Abstract: A patient examination and transportation and echocardiography gurney is provided having side guard rails that protect the patient during transportation, the guard rails being repositionable to avoid obstruction of the access to the patient's chest during echocardiography procedures, the guard rails being selectably positionable to support the patient during echocardiography procedures.

Abstract: A patient table is disclosed. The patient table includes a cradle for linearly receiving and transferring a board comprising a top surface defined by a single plane for carrying a patient, a cradle supporting member for slidably receiving the cradle, a locker within the cradle for positioning the board and patient on the table, and for preventing the board from sliding off the cradle, and a stopper within the cradle for preventing the cradle form sliding off the cradle supporting member.

Abstract: A combination Magnetic Resonance imaging apparatus and patient table, which apparatus has a magnet structure, defining a cavity for accommodating a part of the body under examination, which is supported by a base block, the patient table and the apparatus having a base block and a supporting structure respectively, that are slidable in at least one, or more directions. The patient table and the Magnetic Resonance imaging apparatus have a mechanism for removable connection therebetween and guide thereof along predetermined relative displacement paths.

Abstract: A patient support and/or transport device is proposed. The patient support and/or transport device comprises a receptacle in particular for a push-in patient support plate. At least one metal detection device is provided on the receptacle adjacent to the patient support plate when the patient support plate is pushed in.

Abstract: The invention can be summarized as follows: A collision protection device for a patient examination table of a medical X-ray device is provided for the purpose of assuring simple and reliable avoidance of collisions between very fast moving device parts of a medical X-ray device and a patient, which collision protection device has a protective element made of an X-ray transparent material, wherein the collision protection device can be arranged relative to the patient examination table and brought into a position such that in said position the protective element mechanically shields at least a part of the lying surface of the patient examination table.

Abstract: To realize a method of automatically identifying a table apparatus and a medical imaging apparatus. There is provided a table apparatus identifying method in which when a table apparatus having a plurality of movable portions that are movable in the respective axial directions, independently, an absolute position of each of the movable portions on the axis is detected with respect to each of the axes, the passages of the movable portion at the predetermined two positions apart from each other by the given distance along the axis are optically detected, the respective absolute positions of the movable portion at that time is stored as characterization information, and the arrivals of the movable portion at two block positions on both ends of the axis are detected, respectively, and the respective absolute positions of the movable portion at that time are stored as the configuration information.

Abstract: A robotic patient positioning assembly for therapeutic radiation treatment includes a robotic positioning device for moving and supporting the patient during treatment, a sensor system for detecting the position of the robotic positioning device, and a controller operatively connected with the sensor system for receiving position data of the robotic positioning device and operatively connected to the robotic positioning device for controlling the motions of the robotic positioning device. The controller is adapted for controlling the motion of the robotic positioning device in response to information representative of the position of the robotic positioning device received from the sensor system, so that the treatment target within a patient loaded on the robotic positioning device is properly aligned with a radiation source of a therapeutic radiation treatment system.

Abstract: A patient support device of a radiation therapy treatment system includes an electromechanical motor and control system for moving the support device. The control system utilizes regenerative braking concepts, converting the motor into a generator as the support device is moved such that no matter the load, the support device will be moved at a constant speed. The control system also allows for moving of the support device in the powered off situation (i.e., when there is no power to the support device).

Abstract: A combined apparatus for diagnostic imaging an inner part of a body, the apparatus including at least a device for imaging and displaying images according to at least two types of beams, waves or signals transmitted toward a body or a part of the body to be examined, the device including a Nuclear Magnetic Resonance imaging and displaying device and an ultrasound imaging and displaying device in an integrated configuration within the same apparatus.

Abstract: Embodiments of the present description provide a medical apparatus for use in supporting a patient lying in a supine position during a radial cardiac catheterization procedure. More particularly, embodiments of the present description provide an arm board a patient's arm during a radial cardiac catheterization procedure. The arm board is a substantially planar member having a support surface on which the patient's arm can be stabilized during a catheterization procedure. Desirably, the arm board has both a radiolucent portion and a radiopaque portion, thereby reducing and/or eliminating a doctor's exposure to radiation during radial cardiac catheterization procedures without impairing the ability to obtain the necessary medical images. Also provided is a medical apparatus and a method for its use.

Abstract: A positioning system configured to move a patient or support into position or in a guided manner. The system includes a table that is configured to hold the patient or object and a column that is coupled to the table. The column is configured to support and move the table and includes a plurality of links pivotably coupled to each other in series. Adjacent links are configured to pivot in only one direction from a linear stacked arrangement. The system also includes a guide that is configured to receive and direct the links of the column into the linear stacked arrangement when the links are moved by a lifting force along the guide.

Abstract: A breast-board system, components and methods of use therefore. A generally U-shaped wrist support with a flattened bottom and rounded post like tops that may be used as either a cupping-support or as a grasping-post is mounted on a post atop a tiltable breast-board. A second support having a generally U-shaped cross section mounted on a supporting framework extends from a base, which is rotatably mounted to the tiltable breast-board near the edge thereof. The base includes a portion extending over the edge of the breast-board, and, a slidable locking mechanism on the bottom surface, which may be retracted to slide the mechanism out of a recess located on the breast-board. The support may then be rotated to a desired position and the slidable locking mechanism actuated to engage with a desired recess on the breast-board.

Abstract: A patient bed for an imaging medical apparatus has a patient support plate that has at least one radar antenna to obtain physiological and/or geometric data from a patient the patient support plate. In a method for the operation of such a patient bed having at least one radar antenna in an imaging medical apparatus, the at least one radar antenna is operated to obtain data from the patient on the patient support plate.

Abstract: When inserting a patient into a bore of a patient imaging device (e.g., CT, SPECT, PET, MRI, fMRI, etc.), a cantilevered pallet supported by an adjustable table deflects under the patient's weight. A pair of springs couples the table to first and second support arms, which are coupled to each other at a pivot point. A lever is coupled to the front end of the table and pivots on a fulcrum. A pair of wires are coupled to a rearward end of the lever and passed over respective pulleys before being coupled to a rearward portion of the table. A component of the patient's weight applied to the front edge of the table causes the lever to pivot on its fulcrum, raising the forward ends of the wires, which pass over the pulleys and pull the rearward end of the table downward to maintain the patient at a desired altitude and/or angle.

Abstract: A subject loading system is provided for moving a subject disposed in an isolation zone into and out of a diagnostic system disposed outside the isolation zone. A tube extends away from the isolation zone. The tube has an inner volume open to the isolation zone and operatively coupled with the diagnostic system. An elongated subject support pallet is disposed in the isolation zone and dimensioned to fit into the tube. A base including a mechanical drive is disposed in the isolation zone and is configured to align the elongated subject support pallet with the tube and to move the elongated subject support pallet into and out of the tube.

Abstract: A device and a method for imaging an animal including an animal holding device for keeping the animal immobile and at a desired temperature during the scanning operation for imaging the animal in real-time in a non-destructive manner.

Abstract: A diagnosis device having a device for producing a series of images, such as a computer tomography device or an ultrasound device. There is also a device for the passive movement of an object and a device that can be stereotactically moved independent of the passive movement object, wherein this stereotactial movement object can be driven by a motor. These two devices can be arranged on or in the diagnosis device to perform a treatment or examination. By controlling the diagnosis device, it is possible to produce a series of images in real time during a passive movement of an object or of the device for performing a treatment or examination.

Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention may provide a PET-MRI hybrid system capable of arranging a PET apparatus and an MRI apparatus in a line. An MRI room containing the MRI apparatus and a PET room containing the PET apparatus are provided at either side of a central waiting room as opposed to each other about the waiting room. A rail portion linearly extends from the PET room to the waiting room on their bottoms. Another rail portion linearly extends on the bottom of the MRI room. A transfer unit, which supports a subject lying thereon, travels along the rail portions of the waiting room, the MRI room and the PET room. A bridge unit is provided between the rail portion of the waiting room and the rail portion of the MRI room. The bridge unit provides a space for opening and closing a shield door of the MRI room and allows the transfer unit to be reciprocated between the waiting room and the MRI room by selectively connecting the rail portion of the waiting room and the rail portion of the MRI room.

Abstract: The invention concerns a patient positioning system for radiotherapy, comprising a device for positioning a patient within the framework of treatment planning, using image detection and/or carrying out radiation treatment, comprising a patient bed (3, 42, 50) on which a patient is positioned, wherein means are provided by which the same bed (3, 42, 50) may be arranged both on a planning couch (8) for image detection within the framework of treatment planning as well as on a radiotherapy table (1, 44), and by providing a reference means (54) on the patient bed by which the position of the immobilised patient or of a marked radiation target is determined with respect to the patient bed (3, 42, 50). Within this framework, a corresponding method is also provided, as well as an adjusting means for the transport and the bed.

Abstract: The present invention provides a system 10 for irradiating a breast 20 of a patient 22. The system 10 comprises a gantry 12 rotatable about a horizontal axis 14 and comprising a radiation source 16 for generating a radiation beam 18 and a detector 24 spaced from the radiation source 16, and a barrier 26 disposed between the patient 22 and the gantry 12. The barrier 26 is provided with an opening 30 adapted to allow a breast 20 passing therethrough to be exposed to the radiation beam 18. In some embodiments, the barrier 26 is provided with an opening 30 adapted to allow both the breast 20 and the tissue leading from the breast to axilla and the muscle tissue of the adjacent chest wall passing therethrough to be exposed to the radiation beam 18.

Abstract: A patient positioning device is provided. The patient positioning device includes a patient positioning top and a u-shaped undercarriage that includes first and second parts that can be displaced relative to each other. An undercarriage length is adjustable with the first and second parts.

Abstract: A device and method for motorized support of patient positioning are provided. The position of a patient bed and the setting of an electric motor drive are recorded which may differ due to elasticity and/or flexibility of the bed drive. A control signal for the electric motor drive is generated depending on the position of the patient bed and the setting of the electric motor drive. The drive can thus be activated for servo-support in case the patient bed is manually displaced, whereby the control signal is generated depending on a change in position of the patient bed, which does not correspond to a simultaneous change in the setting of the electric motor drive.

Abstract: The invention described herein provides systems and methods for handling objects within an imaging system, such as a multi-modal imaging system. An object handling system operates to position an object to be imaged in an interior cavity of a light imaging system, and also moves the object to be imaged between the light imaging system and a second imaging system. The object handling system can include components such as a stage that supports the object, a manipulator configured to move the stage between the interior and exterior of the light imaging system and a light seal configured to interface with a light seal on an exterior wall of the light imaging system.

Abstract: A patient handling system comprising a table top (6) for carrying a lying patient (8). The table top (6) is supported by a table base (1) and the table top (6) can move in longitudinal direction over said table base (1) so that at least a part of the table top (6) can be displaced to a position away from said table base (1). At least a portion (1;4) of said table base (1), to which portion (1;4) the table top (6) is movably attached, can be displaced in substantially said longitudinal direction in which the table top (6) can move. Thereby, said table top (6) can be displaced in longitudinal direction over a distance which is larger than the length of the table top (6).

Abstract: Procedure radiograph orientation devices and methods of use are provided for stabilization and orientation of a patient's anatomy for a variety of surgical interventions. Additionally, devices of the present invention aid in orienting radiographic imaging devices through the inclusion of radiopaque fiducials so as to optimize radiographic images by providing radiographic reference landmarks. An example of the present invention includes a rostral base plate, a plurality of support slats, and a caudal base plate, these components being adapted to pivot about one another or in certain embodiments, adapted to pivot about a series of spacers. One or more tension wires extend through the slats and base plates, joining the elements. The devices may be secured in various configurations by increasing the tension of the tension cable(s). Visual sighting or aiming devices may also be included in certain embodiments. Certain embodiments may include a rigid base plate having radiopaque fiducials.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a table for diagnostic analyses for veterinary or medical use. In particular, the present invention relates to a non-magnetic diagnostic table (1), comprising a support structure (2) and a platform (3), characterized in that said platform (3) is radiotransparent and that said table (1) includes a pneumatic system for raising said platform (3) comprising stabilizer means (100), said stabilizer means (100) comprising valve means (15) that are actuated by control means (16) which receive information on the vertical positioning of said platform (3) by means of mechanical drive.

Abstract: The invention relates to an operating table top (4) consisting of one or several basic sections (5) and one or several modules (6), with such modules (6) and basic sections (5) being adjustable relative to each other and such modules (6) being designed so as to be separable from the operating table top (4), and with such modules (6) being designed so as to be replaceable with additional supporting surfaces (8) separably connected to the basic sections (5), and with the operating table top (4) and its attached additional supporting surfaces (8) being of suitable design so that they can be introduced into radiographic equipment, magnetic resonance imaging and/or computer tomography systems and radiographic, magnetic resonance or computer tomographic images can be produced. Moreover, the invention relates to a pertinent operating table system as well as a pertinent operating table (1).

Abstract: A medical table in which a top plate for a patient to lie on is supported by a pedestal base in a manner to be able to move parallel to a plate surface, includes a detecting device for detecting that fingers holding the top plate are about to collide against the pedestal base when moving the top plate, and a stopping device for stopping movement of the top plate according to a detection signal from the detecting device.