US20170196520A1 - Shield for patient positioning in extra-oral imaging - Google Patents
Shield for patient positioning in extra-oral imaging Download PDFInfo
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- US20170196520A1 US20170196520A1 US15/470,965 US201715470965A US2017196520A1 US 20170196520 A1 US20170196520 A1 US 20170196520A1 US 201715470965 A US201715470965 A US 201715470965A US 2017196520 A1 US2017196520 A1 US 2017196520A1
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- mount
- positioning apparatus
- support
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- 238000003384 imaging method Methods 0.000 title claims abstract description 57
- 210000003128 head Anatomy 0.000 claims abstract description 23
- 210000001061 forehead Anatomy 0.000 claims abstract description 18
- 238000000034 method Methods 0.000 claims description 7
- 239000000463 material Substances 0.000 claims description 5
- 239000004417 polycarbonate Substances 0.000 claims description 2
- 229920000515 polycarbonate Polymers 0.000 claims description 2
- 238000002591 computed tomography Methods 0.000 description 12
- 230000008901 benefit Effects 0.000 description 4
- 230000005855 radiation Effects 0.000 description 4
- 238000013170 computed tomography imaging Methods 0.000 description 3
- 238000006073 displacement reaction Methods 0.000 description 3
- 238000001514 detection method Methods 0.000 description 2
- 210000001847 jaw Anatomy 0.000 description 2
- 239000012780 transparent material Substances 0.000 description 2
- 239000011248 coating agent Substances 0.000 description 1
- 238000000576 coating method Methods 0.000 description 1
- 238000007408 cone-beam computed tomography Methods 0.000 description 1
- 210000002455 dental arch Anatomy 0.000 description 1
- 210000004513 dentition Anatomy 0.000 description 1
- 210000000887 face Anatomy 0.000 description 1
- 230000004313 glare Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000005259 measurement Methods 0.000 description 1
- 239000004033 plastic Substances 0.000 description 1
- 229920003023 plastic Polymers 0.000 description 1
- 239000004431 polycarbonate resin Substances 0.000 description 1
- 229920005668 polycarbonate resin Polymers 0.000 description 1
- 239000011435 rock Substances 0.000 description 1
- 230000006641 stabilisation Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000011105 stabilization Methods 0.000 description 1
- 229920001169 thermoplastic Polymers 0.000 description 1
- 239000004416 thermosoftening plastic Substances 0.000 description 1
- 230000036346 tooth eruption Effects 0.000 description 1
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Classifications
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- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
- A61B—DIAGNOSIS; SURGERY; IDENTIFICATION
- A61B6/00—Apparatus or devices for radiation diagnosis; Apparatus or devices for radiation diagnosis combined with radiation therapy equipment
- A61B6/04—Positioning of patients; Tiltable beds or the like
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
- A61B—DIAGNOSIS; SURGERY; IDENTIFICATION
- A61B6/00—Apparatus or devices for radiation diagnosis; Apparatus or devices for radiation diagnosis combined with radiation therapy equipment
- A61B6/10—Safety means specially adapted therefor
- A61B6/107—Protection against radiation, e.g. shielding
-
- A61B6/14—
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
- A61B—DIAGNOSIS; SURGERY; IDENTIFICATION
- A61B6/00—Apparatus or devices for radiation diagnosis; Apparatus or devices for radiation diagnosis combined with radiation therapy equipment
- A61B6/44—Constructional features of apparatus for radiation diagnosis
- A61B6/4429—Constructional features of apparatus for radiation diagnosis related to the mounting of source units and detector units
- A61B6/4435—Constructional features of apparatus for radiation diagnosis related to the mounting of source units and detector units the source unit and the detector unit being coupled by a rigid structure
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
- A61B—DIAGNOSIS; SURGERY; IDENTIFICATION
- A61B6/00—Apparatus or devices for radiation diagnosis; Apparatus or devices for radiation diagnosis combined with radiation therapy equipment
- A61B6/50—Apparatus or devices for radiation diagnosis; Apparatus or devices for radiation diagnosis combined with radiation therapy equipment specially adapted for specific body parts; specially adapted for specific clinical applications
- A61B6/51—Apparatus or devices for radiation diagnosis; Apparatus or devices for radiation diagnosis combined with radiation therapy equipment specially adapted for specific body parts; specially adapted for specific clinical applications for dentistry
Definitions
- the invention relates generally to the field of extra-oral dental imaging and more particularly to apparatus and methods for supporting the patient's head during the imaging session.
- Radiological imaging is recognized to have significant value for the dental practitioner, helping to identify various problems and to validate other measurements and observations related to the patient's teeth and supporting structures.
- x-ray systems with particular promise for improving dental care is the extra-oral imaging apparatus that is capable of obtaining a contiguous panoramic radiograph of the patient showing the entire dentition of the jaw.
- a radiation source and an imaging detector maintained at a fixed distance from each other, synchronously revolve about the patient, taking a series of images by directing and detecting radiation that is directed through the patient at different angles of revolution.
- U.S. Pat. No. 6,118,842 entitled “X-RAY IMAGING APPARATUS” to Arai et al. describes an X-ray imaging apparatus for both CT imaging and panoramic imaging.
- the apparatus includes an X-ray source, an X-ray detector for detecting X-rays having passed through the subject, and supporting means for supporting the X-ray source and the X-ray detector so that they are spatially opposed to each other across the subject; and mode switching means for switching between a CT mode and a panorama mode.
- mode switching means for switching between a CT mode and a panorama mode.
- To detect X-rays one large area X-ray detector is used.
- the X-ray imaging apparatus can obtain both types of images by switching modes during the imaging session.
- the proposed imaging apparatus performs both CT and panoramic imaging using only one detector. This requires an expensive detector capable of carrying out both imaging functions in a satisfactory manner.
- FIG. 1 in the present application shows an embodiment of the Sa et al. '563 imaging system, a combined panoramic and CT imaging apparatus 40 .
- a telescopic column 18 is adjustable for height of the subject.
- the patient 12 or other subject, shown in dotted outline, is positioned between an x-ray source 10 and an x-ray imaging sensor panel 20 .
- X-ray imaging sensor panel 20 rotates on a rotatable mount 30 in order to position either a CT or a panoramic sensor 21 for obtaining the exposure.
- CT sensor 21 is positioned behind the subject, relative to x-ray source 10 .
- the operator rotates CT sensor 21 into this position as part of imaging setup.
- panoramic sensor 21 into position behind the subject as part of the setup for a panoramic imaging session.
- FIG. 2 shows one type of patient stabilization apparatus in an extra-oral imaging apparatus 50 that is typical of such systems.
- a handle 52 is mounted on column 18 , giving the patient a place to grip for steadily maintaining a position.
- a chin rest 54 provides a bite element 56 and guides 58 for holding the head still while x-ray source 10 and sensor panel 20 revolve about the patient.
- Still other problems with conventional solutions relate to setting the imaging apparatus to the proper height for the patient and supporting the patient's head at an appropriate angle for CBCT imaging.
- Conventional systems use a number of complex height detection and head alignment sensing devices, including low-power lasers for example, for achieving proper positioning of the apparatus relative to the patient's head and for positioning the head at a suitable angle.
- Complex sensing and detection systems of this type can be costly and difficult to implement, further complicating the job of the technician or practitioner.
- Another difficulty relates to patient comfort.
- the patient With the arrangement of FIG. 2 , the patient must stand facing away from the dentist or technician. Patients report feeling trapped and uncomfortable with such an apparatus, as if locked in place during the imaging session.
- the present invention provides a patient positioning apparatus for an extra-oral imaging system, the apparatus comprising: a mount for revolving an x-ray source and an imaging sensor panel about a patient's head; and a substantially transparent shield suspended from the mount and comprising: a chin support that is coupled to the shield and comprises a chin rest and a bite element; and a forehead support that is coupled to the shield and comprises a head rest.
- a feature of the present invention is the use of a substantially transparent shield that allows visibility of the patient for the practitioner and reduces patient discomfort.
- An advantage of the present invention is its relative simplicity of design and adaptability to patient sizes. Simplicity of design and use of less expensive materials helps to provide a patient imaging apparatus that is reduced in cost over alternative devices used for this purpose.
- FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a prior art extra-oral imaging apparatus.
- FIG. 2 is a perspective view showing prior art components for patient positioning and support in a conventional extra-oral imaging apparatus.
- FIG. 3 shows perspective, front, and side views of an extra-oral imaging apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention.
- FIG. 4 shows a patient positioned using the open-faced shield of the present invention.
- FIG. 5 is a perspective view of the open-faced shield of the present invention, showing details of the chin rest and bite element.
- FIG. 6 is a perspective view of the open-faced shield of the present invention, showing details of the forehead support.
- FIG. 7 is a perspective view that shows the mechanical arrangement of the forehead support according to an embodiment of the present invention.
- FIG. 8 is a perspective view showing alternate handle arrangements for the patient positioning shield of the present invention.
- FIG. 9 is a perspective view that shows component arrangement for the revolving apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention.
- FIG. 10 is a perspective view that shows additional features for equipment setup and for positioning of the patient according to an embodiment of the present invention.
- Embodiments of the present invention address the need for an improved patient support apparatus that is easy to use and more comfortable for the patient than existing devices.
- FIG. 3 there is shows an extra-oral imaging apparatus 60 that has mount 30 on column 18 with x-ray source 10 and x-ray sensor panel 20 energizable to revolve about the patient for obtaining CT and panoramic images of the patient.
- a substantially transparent patient-positioning shield 70 is suspended from mount 30 , disposed for supporting the patient's head in place between source 10 and sensor panel 20 .
- the vertical displacement of mount 30 is further adjustable to suit the height of the patient. To achieve this, the height of column 18 can be manually adjusted or can be controlled using a motor or other actuator, as described subsequently.
- FIG. 4 shows the positioning of patient 12 using shield 70 .
- Two handles 72 are provided on shield 70 itself, so that the patient's grip, tending to pull the head forward into shield 70 , helps to stabilize head position.
- Shield 70 extends from mount 30 , as was shown in FIG. 3 .
- the patient faces outward when using shield 70 , allowing the practitioner to communicate with the patient more easily and helping to reduce patient discomfort during the imaging session.
- FIG. 5 shows features of shield 70 according to an embodiment of the present invention.
- a face plate 74 extends from a support 76 .
- Face plate 74 is at least substantially transparent, allowing the patient to see outward, for a less captive feeling, and allowing better visibility of the patient for the technician who helps assist with patient setup.
- a material is considered to be substantially transparent when it transmits at least about 40 percent of visible light, preferably more than about 60 percent, more preferably more than about 80 percent of visible light. A higher amount of transparency to x-ray radiation is needed for imaging.
- the transparent material of shield 70 may have optional treatment to reduce glare or reflection, such as an anti-reflection coating, or may be tinted for appearance or for improved suitability to the patient.
- An open window 78 provides an opening that also helps to improve visibility in both directions.
- face plate 74 is formed from a molded polycarbonate material that is substantially transparent to both x-ray radiation and visible light.
- mask edges are further treated or shaped to reduce stripe artifacts in the x-ray image, such as by tapering edge thickness, for example.
- Enlarged section E in FIG. 5 shows a chin support 80 which is removably installed along the inner or patient side of shield 70 .
- Chin support 80 includes a chin rest 84 along with a bite element 82 .
- a height adjuster 86 allows variable adjustment of the height of bite element 82 , which can be slid to an appropriate position along a groove 88 .
- FIG. 6 shows additional features of shield 70 .
- Enlarged section F shows a forehead support 90 , also removably installed on the patient side of shield 70 .
- An angle adjuster 92 allows adjustment of the front-to-back angular displacement of a head rest 94 , against which the patient forehead is to lean. Vertical adjustment is obtained by sliding an extended member 100 of headrest 94 upward or downward within a sleeve 98 .
- Head rest 94 is also horizontally rotatable to fit more comfortably against the forehead of the patient.
- FIG. 7 shows a pivot 96 at the top of forehead support 90 in one embodiment.
- FIG. 8 shows different configurations for handles 72 . Pivot 96 allows forehead support 90 to be in a more comfortable position against the patient.
- FIG. 9 shows the relationship of shield 70 to x-ray source 10 and sensor panel 20 components according to one embodiment of the patient positioning apparatus 36 of the present invention, with mount 30 shown without covers.
- Shield 70 stores against sensor panel 20 in the configuration shown, and rotates outward for positioning against the patient's chin.
- column 18 supporting mount 30 is adjustable to an appropriate height for the patient. While the height can be manually set by the operator, it can be advantageous to use a motor or other type of actuator that can be energized to adjust column 18 height and thus adjust the vertical displacement of mount 30 .
- the perspective view of FIG. 10 shows an optional control panel 120 that can be mounted on or otherwise coupled to shield 70 to allow operator adjustment of the column 18 height.
- Control panel 120 has a hole 104 for fitting over angle adjuster 92 ( FIG. 6 ) to seat against the surface of shield 70 .
- Controls 102 a and 102 b on control panel 120 enable the operator to adjust height upward or downward, respectively.
- Controls 102 a and 102 b are pushbuttons according to one embodiment of the present invention.
- An indicator 106 when energized, illuminates to show power status for the apparatus or for the column height adjustment components.
- Controls 102 a and 102 b communicate control signals to a height adjustment actuator 32 that is coupled to column 18 by means of a cable or other electrical connection 108 , such as a wireless connection.
- control panel 120 is also formed of a transparent material, such as LEXANTM polycarbonate resin thermoplastic from SABIC Innovative Plastics, Inc., The Netherlands. Other materials can alternately be used.
- FIG. 10 also shows markings that help the operator to properly orient the patient's head so that the jaw is at the correct angle for imaging.
- One or more guide lines shown as guide lines 110 a , 110 b , and 110 c in the example of FIG. 10 , are provided on shield 70 for such a purpose.
- guide lines 110 a , 110 b , and 110 c help the operator to horizontally align the dental arch to the ear of the patient.
- Guide lines or other markings can be printed on shield 70 , such as by serigraphic printing, or may be etched or otherwise formed on or within the surface of shield 70 .
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Abstract
A patient positioning apparatus for an extra-oral imaging system includes a mount for revolving an x-ray source and an imaging sensor panel about a patient's head and a substantially transparent shield suspended from the mount. The shield has a chin support coupled to the shield and comprises a chin rest and a bite element and a forehead support coupled to the shield and comprises a head rest.
Description
- This application is a Continuation of U.S. Ser. No. 14/131,458, filed on Jan. 21, 2014, entitled “SHIELD FOR PATIENT POSITIONING IN EXTRA-ORAL IMAGING”, in the names of Yann Lecuyer et al., which claims the benefit of PCT Application No. PCT/IB11/002435 filed on Jul. 22, 2011, entitled “SHIELD FOR PATIENT POSITIONING IN EXTRA-ORAL IMAGING”, in the names of Yann Lecuyer et al., all of which are incorporated herein in their entirety, which is incorporated herein in its entirety.
- The invention relates generally to the field of extra-oral dental imaging and more particularly to apparatus and methods for supporting the patient's head during the imaging session.
- Radiological imaging is recognized to have significant value for the dental practitioner, helping to identify various problems and to validate other measurements and observations related to the patient's teeth and supporting structures. Among x-ray systems with particular promise for improving dental care is the extra-oral imaging apparatus that is capable of obtaining a contiguous panoramic radiograph of the patient showing the entire dentition of the jaw. To obtain this type of image, a radiation source and an imaging detector, maintained at a fixed distance from each other, synchronously revolve about the patient, taking a series of images by directing and detecting radiation that is directed through the patient at different angles of revolution.
- Combination systems that provide both CT and panoramic x-ray imaging have been proposed. For example, U.S. Pat. No. 6,118,842 entitled “X-RAY IMAGING APPARATUS” to Arai et al. describes an X-ray imaging apparatus for both CT imaging and panoramic imaging. The apparatus includes an X-ray source, an X-ray detector for detecting X-rays having passed through the subject, and supporting means for supporting the X-ray source and the X-ray detector so that they are spatially opposed to each other across the subject; and mode switching means for switching between a CT mode and a panorama mode. To detect X-rays, one large area X-ray detector is used. The X-ray imaging apparatus can obtain both types of images by switching modes during the imaging session. However, the proposed imaging apparatus performs both CT and panoramic imaging using only one detector. This requires an expensive detector capable of carrying out both imaging functions in a satisfactory manner.
- More recently, U.S. Pat. No. 7,236,563 entitled “COMBINED PANORAMIC AND COMPUTED TOMOGRAPHY PHOTOGRAPHING APPARATUS” to Sa et al. describes a combination system that allows both CT and panoramic imaging using two separate sensors or detectors. By way of example,
FIG. 1 in the present application shows an embodiment of the Sa et al. '563 imaging system, a combined panoramic andCT imaging apparatus 40. Atelescopic column 18 is adjustable for height of the subject. Thepatient 12 or other subject, shown in dotted outline, is positioned between anx-ray source 10 and an x-rayimaging sensor panel 20. X-rayimaging sensor panel 20 rotates on arotatable mount 30 in order to position either a CT or a panoramic sensor 21 for obtaining the exposure. For CT imaging, CT sensor 21 is positioned behind the subject, relative tox-ray source 10. The operator rotates CT sensor 21 into this position as part of imaging setup. Similarly, the operator rotates panoramic sensor 21 into position behind the subject as part of the setup for a panoramic imaging session. - Another system combines CT, panoramic, and cephalometric imaging from a single apparatus. U.S. Pat. No. 7,424,091 entitled “COMBINED PANORAMIC, CT (COMPUTED TOMOGRAPHY) AND CEPHALOMETRIC PHOTOGRAPHING APPARATUS” to Park et al. describes such a system.
- One problem common to such systems for extra-oral imaging relates to the need both to keep the subject motionless and to maintain the subject in exactly the same position for each image capture during the imaging session. The perspective view of
FIG. 2 shows one type of patient stabilization apparatus in anextra-oral imaging apparatus 50 that is typical of such systems. Ahandle 52 is mounted oncolumn 18, giving the patient a place to grip for steadily maintaining a position. Achin rest 54 provides abite element 56 andguides 58 for holding the head still whilex-ray source 10 andsensor panel 20 revolve about the patient. - While conventional solutions such as that shown in
FIG. 2 have the supporting structures that perform the needed task of keeping the patient still and in a fixed position, however, there is room for improvement. One difficulty relates to the job of initial setup, placing the patient in position, with the proper settings for chin rest height, bite element position, and handle height. The technician must work from behind the patient for much of this adjustment with reduced visibility, having little room to see how the patient is situated. Further, the patient may rock forward or backward on the chin, even with the guiding and bite devices provided. - Still other problems with conventional solutions relate to setting the imaging apparatus to the proper height for the patient and supporting the patient's head at an appropriate angle for CBCT imaging. Conventional systems use a number of complex height detection and head alignment sensing devices, including low-power lasers for example, for achieving proper positioning of the apparatus relative to the patient's head and for positioning the head at a suitable angle. Complex sensing and detection systems of this type can be costly and difficult to implement, further complicating the job of the technician or practitioner.
- Another difficulty relates to patient comfort. With the arrangement of
FIG. 2 , the patient must stand facing away from the dentist or technician. Patients report feeling trapped and uncomfortable with such an apparatus, as if locked in place during the imaging session. - Thus, there is a need for a patient support apparatus that allows easier setup by the technician and is less confining and intimidating to the patient.
- An object of the present invention is to address the need for improvement for patient positioning and support during extra-oral imaging. With this object in mind, the present invention provides a patient positioning apparatus for an extra-oral imaging system, the apparatus comprising: a mount for revolving an x-ray source and an imaging sensor panel about a patient's head; and a substantially transparent shield suspended from the mount and comprising: a chin support that is coupled to the shield and comprises a chin rest and a bite element; and a forehead support that is coupled to the shield and comprises a head rest.
- A feature of the present invention is the use of a substantially transparent shield that allows visibility of the patient for the practitioner and reduces patient discomfort.
- An advantage of the present invention is its relative simplicity of design and adaptability to patient sizes. Simplicity of design and use of less expensive materials helps to provide a patient imaging apparatus that is reduced in cost over alternative devices used for this purpose.
- These objects are given only by way of illustrative example, and such objects may be exemplary of one or more embodiments of the invention. Other desirable objectives and advantages inherently achieved by the disclosed invention may occur or become apparent to those skilled in the art. The invention is defined by the appended claims.
- The foregoing and other objects, features, and advantages of the invention will be apparent from the following more particular description of the embodiments of the invention, as illustrated in the accompanying drawings. The elements of the drawings are not necessarily to scale relative to each other.
-
FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a prior art extra-oral imaging apparatus. -
FIG. 2 is a perspective view showing prior art components for patient positioning and support in a conventional extra-oral imaging apparatus. -
FIG. 3 shows perspective, front, and side views of an extra-oral imaging apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention. -
FIG. 4 shows a patient positioned using the open-faced shield of the present invention. -
FIG. 5 is a perspective view of the open-faced shield of the present invention, showing details of the chin rest and bite element. -
FIG. 6 is a perspective view of the open-faced shield of the present invention, showing details of the forehead support. -
FIG. 7 is a perspective view that shows the mechanical arrangement of the forehead support according to an embodiment of the present invention. -
FIG. 8 is a perspective view showing alternate handle arrangements for the patient positioning shield of the present invention. -
FIG. 9 is a perspective view that shows component arrangement for the revolving apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention. -
FIG. 10 is a perspective view that shows additional features for equipment setup and for positioning of the patient according to an embodiment of the present invention. - The following is a detailed description of the preferred embodiments of the invention, reference being made to the drawings in which the same reference numerals identify the same elements of structure in each of the several figures.
- Where used, the terms “first”, “second”, and so on, do not necessarily denote any ordinal or priority relation, but may simply be used to more clearly distinguish one element from another.
- Embodiments of the present invention address the need for an improved patient support apparatus that is easy to use and more comfortable for the patient than existing devices. Referring to
FIG. 3 , there is shows anextra-oral imaging apparatus 60 that hasmount 30 oncolumn 18 withx-ray source 10 andx-ray sensor panel 20 energizable to revolve about the patient for obtaining CT and panoramic images of the patient. As part of apatient positioning apparatus 36, a substantially transparent patient-positioning shield 70 is suspended frommount 30, disposed for supporting the patient's head in place betweensource 10 andsensor panel 20. The vertical displacement ofmount 30 is further adjustable to suit the height of the patient. To achieve this, the height ofcolumn 18 can be manually adjusted or can be controlled using a motor or other actuator, as described subsequently. - The perspective view of
FIG. 4 shows the positioning ofpatient 12 usingshield 70. Two handles 72 are provided onshield 70 itself, so that the patient's grip, tending to pull the head forward intoshield 70, helps to stabilize head position.Shield 70 extends frommount 30, as was shown inFIG. 3 . Advantageously, the patient faces outward when usingshield 70, allowing the practitioner to communicate with the patient more easily and helping to reduce patient discomfort during the imaging session. - The perspective view of
FIG. 5 shows features ofshield 70 according to an embodiment of the present invention. Aface plate 74 extends from asupport 76.Face plate 74 is at least substantially transparent, allowing the patient to see outward, for a less captive feeling, and allowing better visibility of the patient for the technician who helps assist with patient setup. A material is considered to be substantially transparent when it transmits at least about 40 percent of visible light, preferably more than about 60 percent, more preferably more than about 80 percent of visible light. A higher amount of transparency to x-ray radiation is needed for imaging. The transparent material ofshield 70 may have optional treatment to reduce glare or reflection, such as an anti-reflection coating, or may be tinted for appearance or for improved suitability to the patient. Anopen window 78 provides an opening that also helps to improve visibility in both directions. In one embodiment,face plate 74 is formed from a molded polycarbonate material that is substantially transparent to both x-ray radiation and visible light. In one embodiment, mask edges are further treated or shaped to reduce stripe artifacts in the x-ray image, such as by tapering edge thickness, for example. - Enlarged section E in
FIG. 5 shows achin support 80 which is removably installed along the inner or patient side ofshield 70.Chin support 80 includes achin rest 84 along with abite element 82. A height adjuster 86 allows variable adjustment of the height ofbite element 82, which can be slid to an appropriate position along agroove 88. - The perspective view of
FIG. 6 shows additional features ofshield 70. Enlarged section F shows aforehead support 90, also removably installed on the patient side ofshield 70. Anangle adjuster 92 allows adjustment of the front-to-back angular displacement of ahead rest 94, against which the patient forehead is to lean. Vertical adjustment is obtained by sliding anextended member 100 ofheadrest 94 upward or downward within asleeve 98.Head rest 94 is also horizontally rotatable to fit more comfortably against the forehead of the patient. - The perspective cross-section view of
FIG. 7 shows apivot 96 at the top offorehead support 90 in one embodiment.FIG. 8 shows different configurations for handles 72.Pivot 96 allowsforehead support 90 to be in a more comfortable position against the patient. - The perspective view of
FIG. 9 shows the relationship ofshield 70 to x-raysource 10 andsensor panel 20 components according to one embodiment of thepatient positioning apparatus 36 of the present invention, withmount 30 shown without covers.Shield 70 stores againstsensor panel 20 in the configuration shown, and rotates outward for positioning against the patient's chin. - Referring to
FIG. 3 ,column 18 supportingmount 30 is adjustable to an appropriate height for the patient. While the height can be manually set by the operator, it can be advantageous to use a motor or other type of actuator that can be energized to adjustcolumn 18 height and thus adjust the vertical displacement ofmount 30. The perspective view ofFIG. 10 shows anoptional control panel 120 that can be mounted on or otherwise coupled to shield 70 to allow operator adjustment of thecolumn 18 height.Control panel 120 has ahole 104 for fitting over angle adjuster 92 (FIG. 6 ) to seat against the surface ofshield 70.Controls control panel 120 enable the operator to adjust height upward or downward, respectively.Controls indicator 106, when energized, illuminates to show power status for the apparatus or for the column height adjustment components.Controls column 18 by means of a cable or otherelectrical connection 108, such as a wireless connection. - According to one embodiment of the present invention,
control panel 120 is also formed of a transparent material, such as LEXAN™ polycarbonate resin thermoplastic from SABIC Innovative Plastics, Inc., The Netherlands. Other materials can alternately be used. -
FIG. 10 also shows markings that help the operator to properly orient the patient's head so that the jaw is at the correct angle for imaging. One or more guide lines, shown asguide lines FIG. 10 , are provided onshield 70 for such a purpose. According to one embodiment of the present invention,guide lines shield 70, such as by serigraphic printing, or may be etched or otherwise formed on or within the surface ofshield 70. - While the invention has been described with reference to exemplary embodiments, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that various changes may be made and equivalents may be substituted for elements thereof without departing from the scope of the invention. Therefore, it is intended that the invention not be limited to the particular embodiment disclosed as the best mode contemplated for carrying out this invention, but that the invention will include all embodiments falling within the scope of the appended claims. The presently disclosed embodiments are therefore considered in all respects to be illustrative and not restrictive. The scope of the invention is indicated by the appended claims, and all changes that come within the meaning and range of equivalents thereof are intended to be embraced therein.
Claims (16)
1. An extra-oral imaging system, comprising:
a mount;
a gantry movable coupled to the mount for revolving an x-ray source and an imaging sensor panel about a patient's head, the gantry extending between a first end mounting the x-ray source and a second opposing end mounting the imaging sensor panel; and
a patient positioning apparatus suspended from the mount, comprising:
a substantially transparent shield including a support; and
a head positioning apparatus mounted at the patient positioning apparatus, and where the support of the substantially transparent shield is used to attach the patient positioning apparatus to the mount and suspend the patient positioning apparatus from the mount through the gantry between the x-ray source and the imaging sensor panel.
2. The system of claim 1 , where the head positioning apparatus comprises:
a chin support mounted to the inside of the substantially transparent shield and includes a chin rest and a bite element; and
a forehead support mounted to the inside of the substantially transparent shield and includes a head rest.
3. The system of claim 2 , further comprising an open window in the substantially transparent shield completely disposed between the chin support and the forehead support to expose at least the bite element in the open window.
4. The system of claim 2 , wherein the substantially transparent shield is formed from a molded polycarbonate material.
5. The system of claim 2 , wherein the chin support further comprises a height adjuster for the bite element.
6. The system of claim 2 , wherein the forehead support is connected to the substantially transparent shield, where the forehead support is configured to be adjustably pivotable relative to the transparent shield toward the patient using its connection to the substantially transparent shield.
7. The system of claim 2 , where the substantially transparent shield extends between the chin support and the forehead support, where the transparent shield is positioned between the x-ray source and the imaging sensor panel, and wherein the substantially transparent shield further comprises one or more controls thereon for setting a column height adjustment for the mount.
8. The system of claim 1 , wherein the substantially transparent shield further comprises one or more handles for gripping by the patient during imaging.
9. The system of claim 1 , wherein the substantially transparent shield further comprises one or more markings to assist in patient positioning.
10. A method for positioning a patient for extra-oral imaging, the method comprising:
providing a movable mount;
providing a gantry, movably coupled to the mount, that extends between a first end mounting an x-ray source and a second opposing end mounting an imaging sensor panel for revolving about an imaging area; and
suspending a patient positioning apparatus comprising an elongated patient cover including a support from the mount, wherein the elongated patient cover comprises a first positioning apparatus mounted at the patient positioning apparatus, and where the support of the elongated patient cover is used to attach the patient positioning apparatus to the mount and suspend the patient positioning apparatus from the mount through the gantry between the x-ray source and the imaging sensor panel.
11. The system of claim 10 , where the first positioning apparatus comprises:
a chin support mounted to the inside of the shield and includes a chin rest and a bite element; and
a forehead support mounted to the inside of the shield that includes a head rest.
12. The method of claim 11 , further comprising providing the elongated patient cover with an open window in the elongated patient cover entirely disposed between the chin support and the forehead support.
13. The method of claim 11 , wherein the forehead support is connected to the elongated patient cover, where the forehead support is disposed to be adjustably pivotable relative to the elongated patient cover toward the patient using its connection to the substantially transparent elongated patient cover.
14. The method of claim 11 , wherein the elongated patient cover further comprises one or more controls thereon for setting a column height adjustment for the gantry.
15. The method of claim 10 , wherein the patient positioning apparatus is suspended from the mount through the gantry using the elongated patient cover and supported by its attachment to the mount.
16. An apparatus to position a patient for dental imaging, the apparatus comprising:
means for providing a movable mount;
means for providing a gantry, movably coupled to the mount, that extends between a first end mounting an x-ray source and a second opposing end mounting an imaging sensor panel for revolving about an imaging area for a patient's head; and
means for suspending a patient positioning apparatus comprising an elongated patient cover including a support from the mount, wherein the elongated patient cover comprises a head positioning apparatus mounted at the patient positioning apparatus, and where the support of the elongated patient cover is used to attach the patient positioning apparatus to the mount and suspend the patient positioning apparatus from the mount through the gantry between the x-ray source and the imaging sensor panel.
Priority Applications (1)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US15/470,965 US20170196520A1 (en) | 2011-07-22 | 2017-03-28 | Shield for patient positioning in extra-oral imaging |
Applications Claiming Priority (3)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
PCT/IB2011/002435 WO2013014488A1 (en) | 2011-07-22 | 2011-07-22 | Shield for patient positioning in extra-oral imaging |
US201414131458A | 2014-01-21 | 2014-01-21 | |
US15/470,965 US20170196520A1 (en) | 2011-07-22 | 2017-03-28 | Shield for patient positioning in extra-oral imaging |
Related Parent Applications (2)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
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US14/131,458 Continuation US9642582B2 (en) | 2011-07-22 | 2011-07-22 | Shield for patient positioning in extra-oral imaging |
PCT/IB2011/002435 Continuation WO2013014488A1 (en) | 2011-07-22 | 2011-07-22 | Shield for patient positioning in extra-oral imaging |
Publications (1)
Publication Number | Publication Date |
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US20170196520A1 true US20170196520A1 (en) | 2017-07-13 |
Family
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Family Applications (2)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
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US14/131,458 Active 2031-12-30 US9642582B2 (en) | 2011-07-22 | 2011-07-22 | Shield for patient positioning in extra-oral imaging |
US15/470,965 Abandoned US20170196520A1 (en) | 2011-07-22 | 2017-03-28 | Shield for patient positioning in extra-oral imaging |
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Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
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US14/131,458 Active 2031-12-30 US9642582B2 (en) | 2011-07-22 | 2011-07-22 | Shield for patient positioning in extra-oral imaging |
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US (2) | US9642582B2 (en) |
EP (1) | EP2734115B1 (en) |
JP (1) | JP5828957B2 (en) |
WO (1) | WO2013014488A1 (en) |
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JP6299010B2 (en) * | 2013-10-25 | 2018-03-28 | 朝日レントゲン工業株式会社 | X-ray imaging apparatus and X-ray imaging method |
KR102210475B1 (en) * | 2014-02-07 | 2021-02-02 | 주식회사 바텍 | Panoramic and Cephalometric X-RAY Equipment |
KR101813472B1 (en) | 2014-04-17 | 2017-12-29 | 쎄플라 쏘씨에타 쿠퍼라티바 | Craniostat for acquiring extraoral dental radiographies |
KR101838349B1 (en) | 2014-04-17 | 2018-03-13 | 쎄플라 쏘씨에타 쿠퍼라티바 | Craniostat for acquiring extraoral dental radiographies |
US10939882B2 (en) * | 2014-06-25 | 2021-03-09 | Trophy | Dental bite block for 2D imaging |
WO2016087894A1 (en) | 2014-12-04 | 2016-06-09 | Trophy | Visual indicator for the assessment of the tilt of the frankfort plane in extra oral dental imaging devices |
US20170332985A1 (en) * | 2014-12-04 | 2017-11-23 | Trophy | Cephalometric patient positioning unit extra oral dental imaging devices |
EP3277184A1 (en) * | 2015-04-03 | 2018-02-07 | Trophy | Method and apparatus for aligning of cephalometric imaging device collimator |
KR102068814B1 (en) * | 2017-09-07 | 2020-01-21 | 박영현 | Dental support block and dental imaging device including that |
KR200491328Y1 (en) * | 2017-12-29 | 2020-03-23 | 주식회사 에이치디엑스윌 | Handle structure of a vertical type radiation photographing device |
KR102492844B1 (en) * | 2021-06-01 | 2023-01-26 | 동의대학교 산학협력단 | Dental shield with adjustable length |
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Also Published As
Publication number | Publication date |
---|---|
EP2734115A1 (en) | 2014-05-28 |
EP2734115B1 (en) | 2018-06-27 |
US9642582B2 (en) | 2017-05-09 |
JP5828957B2 (en) | 2015-12-09 |
US20140147803A1 (en) | 2014-05-29 |
JP2014523331A (en) | 2014-09-11 |
WO2013014488A1 (en) | 2013-01-31 |
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