Patient support systems (05-Jan-2010)

RELATED APPLICATION DATA

This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 60/676,138, filed on Apr. 29, 2005, the entire disclosure of which is expressly incorporated by reference herein.

This application is related to U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/415,965, entitled “Radiation systems with imaging capability”, U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/415,866, entitled “Radiation systems”, and U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/415,957, entitled “Systems and methods for treating patients using radiation”.

FIELD

This application relates generally to patient support systems.

BACKGROUND

Various systems and methods exist to provide radiation therapy treatment of tumorous tissue with high-energy radiation. While some patient conditions require whole body radiation treatments, many forms of radiation treatment benefit from the ability to accurately control the amount, location and distribution of radiation within a patient's body. Such control often includes applying various levels of radiation to various areas of the tumorous region. For example, in some instances it is desirable to apply a greater dosage of radiation to one portion of a tumorous region than another. As another example, in some instances it is desirable to minimize the dosage of radiation to non tumorous regions where radiation may have deleterious effects. Due to a variety of contributing factors, achieving accurate control of the amount, location and distribution of radiation within the patient's body can be difficult. Among these factors are movement in the patient's body, changes in organ or inter organ structure or composition, and changes in the relative position of a patient's organs.

Prior to a radiation therapy, the patient undergoes an imaging procedure to determine the exact size, shape and location of the tumorous region. In a radiation treatment session, the patient is subjected to radiation from an accelerator that emits a beam of radiation energy collimated and oriented to enter the patient's body from a particular angle. Varying the intensity and the entry angle of the incident radiation beam allows a radiation specialist to generate a radiation dose volume that corresponds to the size, shape, and location of the tumorous region.

Several factors may prevent optimal radiation exposure to the tumorous region and minimal radiation exposure of the healthy tissue regions. For example, minor changes in patient's position from the imaging device to the treatment device may radically alter the position of the tumorous region or organ. In existing procedures, the patient is generally placed on a first patient support when the imaging device is used to obtain images of the patient. After the imaging session, the patient is then moved to a second patient support where the patient can be treated in a treatment session. As a result of moving the patient to different supports, the position and/or the shape of the target tissue within the patient may change. As such, it may be desirable to provide a patient support system that is capable of supporting a patient during an imaging procedure and/or treatment session.

Another problem associated with existing patient support systems is that they have limited range of movements and limited degrees of freedom. For example, in certain procedures, it may be desirable to rotate a patient support about its longitudinal axis to thereby tilt the patient support. However, existing patient support systems may not be configured to allow rotation of the patient support about its longitudinal axis.

SUMMARY

In accordance with some embodiments, a patient support system includes a plurality of support portions arranged in a matrix to thereby form a support surface, at least one of the support portions is moveable relative to another of the support portions, wherein one or more of the plurality of support portions is rotatable about an axis that is substantially vertical.

In accordance with other embodiments, a patient support system includes a base, a patient support coupled to the base, and a docking system secured to the base.

In accordance with other embodiments, a patient support system includes a first positioner, a second positioner; and a patient support, wherein the patient support has a first end that can be coupled to the first positioner, and a second end that can be coupled to the second positioner.

In accordance with other embodiments, a patient support system includes a patient support, and a positioning system for positioning the patient support, wherein the positioning system is capable of placing the patient support such that a point on the patient support is at a location, and rotating the patient support about a vertical axis that intersects the point, wherein the positioning system includes a first arm and a second arm rotatably coupled to the first arm, and the patient support is rotatably coupled to the second arm.

In accordance with other embodiments, a patient support system includes a first base portion rotatable about a first vertical axis, a second base portion rotatably coupled to the first base portion such that the second base portion is rotatable relative to the first base portion about a second vertical axis, a first arm coupled to the second base portion, a second arm rotatably coupled to the first arm, and a patient support rotatably coupled to the second arm.

In accordance with other embodiments, a patient support system includes a first support portion, and a second support portion that is moveable relative to the first support portion, wherein the second support portion is rotatable about a substantially vertical axis, and each of the first and second support portions is selected from the group consisting of a head support, an arm support, an upper body support, a mid-body support, a lower body support, a thigh support, and a leg support.

In accordance with other embodiments, a radiation system includes a patient support system having a plurality of support portions arranged in a matrix to thereby form a support surface, at least one of the support portions is moveable relative to another of the support portions, and a radiation machine located adjacent to the patient support system.

Other aspects and features will be evident from reading the following detailed description of the embodiments.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The drawings illustrate the design and utility of preferred embodiments, in which similar elements are referred to by common reference numerals. In order to better appreciate how advantages and objects of the embodiments are obtained, a more particular description of the embodiments will be illustrated in the accompanying drawings.

FIG. 1A illustrates an isometric view of a radiation system in accordance with some embodiments;

FIG. 1B illustrates an isometric view of a radiation system having imaging capability in accordance with some embodiments;

FIG. 1C illustrates an isometric view of a radiation system in accordance with other embodiments;

FIG. 1D illustrates an isometric view of a radiation system in accordance with other embodiments;

FIG. 1E illustrates a top view of the radiation system of FIG. 1C in accordance with some embodiments;

FIG. 1F illustrates an isometric view of a radiation system in accordance with other embodiments;

FIG. 2 illustrates an isometric view of a radiation system that includes, or is used with, a computed tomography device, in accordance with some embodiments;

FIG. 3 illustrates an isometric view of a radiation system that includes, or is used with, a device having a C-arm configuration, in accordance with some embodiments;

FIG. 4A illustrates an isometric view of a radiation system having a docking system for allowing a device to be docked adjacent to the radiation system in accordance with some embodiments;

FIGS. 4B and 4C illustrate a method of docking a device adjacent to the radiation system of FIG. 4A in accordance with some embodiments;

FIG. 5A illustrates an isometric view of a radiation system having a docking system for allowing the radiation system to be docked adjacent to a device in accordance with some embodiments;

FIGS. 5B and 5C illustrate a method of docking the radiation system of FIG. 5A adjacent to a device in accordance with some embodiments;

FIG. 6A illustrates a side view of a patient support system in accordance with some embodiments, showing the patient support system placed on one side of the radiation system of FIG. 1A;

FIG. 6B illustrates a side view of a patient support system in accordance with other embodiments, showing the patient support system placed on another side of the radiation system of FIG. 1A;

FIG. 7 illustrates a side view of the patient support system of FIG. 6A, showing a patient support of the patient support system being placed at a first operative position;

FIG. 8 illustrates a side view of the patient support system of FIG. 6A, showing a patient support of the patient support system being placed at a second operative position;

FIG. 9 illustrates a side view of a patient support system in accordance with some embodiments;

FIG. 10A illustrates a side view of a patient support system in accordance with other embodiments;

FIG. 10B illustrates a top view of a docking system for allowing a patient support system to be docked adjacent to a radiation system in accordance with some embodiments;

FIG. 10C illustrates a top view of the patient support system of FIG. 10A docked adjacent to the radiation system of FIG. 1A in a first configuration in accordance with some embodiments;

FIG. 10D illustrates a top view of the patient support system of FIG. 10A docked adjacent to the radiation system of FIG. 1A in a second configuration in accordance with other embodiments;

FIG. 10E illustrates a top view of the patient support system of FIG. 10A docked adjacent to the radiation system of FIG. 1A in a third configuration in accordance with other embodiments;

FIG. 10F illustrates a top view of the patient support system of FIG. 10A docked adjacent to the radiation system of FIG. 1A in a fourth configuration in accordance with other embodiments;

FIG. 10G illustrates a top view of a docking system in accordance with other embodiments;

FIG. 10H illustrates a top view of a docking system in accordance with other embodiments;

FIG. 11A illustrates a side view of a patient support system placed between a radiation system and a device in accordance with some embodiments, showing a patient support of the patient support system placed at a first operative position;

FIG. 11B illustrates a side view of the patient support system of FIG. 11A, showing the patient support of the patient support system placed at a second operative position;

FIG. 12A illustrates a side view of a patient support system having a first positioner, a second positioner, and a patient support in accordance with some embodiments, wherein the patient support is shown coupled to the first positioner;

FIG. 12B illustrates a side view of the patient support system of FIG. 12A, showing the patient support being coupled to both the first and the second positioners;

FIG. 12C illustrates a side view of the patient support system of FIG. 12A, showing the patient support being coupled to the second positioner;

FIG. 13A illustrates a patient support system in accordance with other embodiments;

FIG. 13B illustrates a patient support system in accordance with other embodiments;

FIG. 13C illustrates a method of using the patient support of FIG. 13A in accordance with some embodiments;

FIG. 13D illustrates an isometric view of a patient support in accordance with other embodiments;

FIG. 13E illustrates an isometric view of a patient support in accordance with other embodiments;

FIG. 14A illustrates an isometric view of a radiation system that includes a patient position sensing system in accordance with some embodiments;

FIG. 14B illustrates a side view of a radiation system that includes a patient position sensing system in accordance with other embodiments;

FIG. 14C illustrates a side view of a radiation system that includes a patient position sensing system in accordance with other embodiments;

FIG. 15 illustrates an isometric view of a radiation system that includes compensating coils in accordance with some embodiments;

FIG. 16A illustrates an isometric view of a radiation system that includes a protective shield in accordance with some embodiments;

FIG. 16B illustrates a side cross-sectional view of the radiation system of FIG. 16A;

FIG. 16C illustrates an isometric view of a radiation system that includes a protective shield in accordance with other embodiments;

FIGS. 17A-17E illustrate radiation systems in accordance with other embodiments;

FIG. 18 illustrates a radiation beam generator having a permanent magnet for altering a trajectory of a beam in accordance with some embodiments; and

FIG. 19 illustrates a block diagram of a computer system that can be used to control an operation of a radiation system, a device, and/or a patient support system in accordance with some embodiments.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE EMBODIMENTS

Various embodiments are described hereinafter with reference to the figures. It should be noted that the figures are not drawn to scale and elements of similar structures or functions are represented by like reference numerals throughout the figures. It should also be noted that the figures are only intended to facilitate the description of specific embodiments. They are not intended as an exhaustive description of the invention or as a limitation on the scope of the invention. In addition, an aspect described in conjunction with a particular embodiment is not necessarily limited to that embodiment and can be practiced in any other embodiments. Moreover, alternative configurations, components, methods, etc. discussed in conjunction with one embodiment can be used in any other embodiment even if such other embodiment does not discuss such alternatives or discusses different alternatives.

FIG. 1A illustrates a radiation system 10 in accordance with some embodiments. The radiation system 10 includes a structure 12 having a first side 14, a second side 16, a first opening 18 located on the first side 14, a second opening 20 located on the second side 16, and a bore 22 extending between the first and second openings 18, 20. In the illustrated embodiments, the openings 18, 20 are circular in shape and are sized for accommodating at least a part of a patient. In other embodiments, the openings 18, 20 can have other shapes. The through bore 22 of the structure 12 provides a passage for allowing at least a portion of a patient to be transported from one side of the structure 12 to an opposite side of the structure 12. In some embodiments, a diagnostic procedure (e.g., an imaging procedure) is performed on the patient on one side of the structure 12 (e.g., for the purpose of obtaining information, such as a position of a target region, of the patient), and the patient is then transported through the bore 22 to the opposite side of the structure 12 for a treatment procedure. In other embodiments, the patient is treated on one side of the structure 12, and is then transported through the bore 22 to the opposite side of the structure 12 for further procedure(s), such as a diagnostic procedure (e.g., to evaluate a treatment procedure, or to verify location, orientation, and/or shape of a target tissue,) or a treatment procedure.

It should be noted that the shape and configuration of the structure 12 should not be limited to the examples discussed previously, and that the structure 12 can have other configurations in other embodiments. For example, in other embodiments, the structure 12 can have a curvilinear shape, or other shapes. Also, in some embodiments, the structure 12 can have a size and shape such that the structure can house mechanical and electrical components associated with an operation of the radiation system 10 as desired.

The radiation system 10 also includes a first radiation source 40 located adjacent to the first side 14 for delivering a radiation beam 42. The radiation beam 42 can be a pencil beam, a fan beam, a cone beam, or other types of beams having different configurations. As used in this specification, the term “radiation source” refers to an emission point/region of a radiation beam (e.g., radiation beam 42), and may or may not include components, such as a particle generator, an accelerator, a cooling system, a shielding, etc., that are used to generate the radiation beam 42. As shown in the figure, the radiation system 10 includes an arm 30 secured to the structure 12, and the first radiation source 40 is secured to the arm 30. Some or all of the components used to generate the radiation beam 42 can be housed within the arm 30, the structure 12, a separate housing (not shown), or combination thereof. For example, in some embodiments, the accelerator 31 associated with the radiation source 40 may be housed within the arm 30. In such cases, one or more magnets (electromagnet(s) or permanent magnet(s)) may be provided within the arm 30 for changing a characteristic (e.g., a trajectory) of an electron beam created by the accelerator 31. If permanent magnet(s) is used, its associated magnetic field can be trimmed electromagnetically (e.g., using one or more electromagnetic coil(s)) or mechanically (e.g., using one or more permanent magnet(s)). Also, in some embodiments, the mechanical trimming can be performed using a magnetic shunt. Magnetic field trimming will be described with reference to FIG. 18.

As shown in the figure, the arm 30 is secured to a mechanical linkage 44, such as a ring, that is rotatable relative to the structure 12, thereby allowing the first radiation source 40 to rotate about an axis 46 of the bore 22. The arm 30 of the radiation system 10 is advantageous in that it allows radiation be delivered to a portion of a patient that is placed outside the bore 22. In particular, since the patient is not confined by the bore 22, the patient can be oriented at different angles relative to the axis 46 outside the bore 22. For example, the patient can be positioned at least partially outside the bore 22 and oriented at an angle relative to the axis 46. In some embodiments, the arm 30 is also advantageous in that it can be used to house at least some of the components, such as an accelerator, associated with the radiation source 40, thereby eliminating the need to cramp the components within the bore 22.

In other embodiments, or any of the embodiments described herein, the radiation system 10 may not include the arm 30 (FIG. 1F). In such cases, the first radiation source 40 may be rotatably secured to the structure 12. For example, the radiation source 40 may be secured to a ring (which may be a full ring or a partial ring) that is rotatable relative to the structure 12 in a slip-ring configuration. In such cases, at least some of the components within arm 30 may be disposed within the structure 12. It should be noted that any one or a combination of any of the features described herein may be incorporated and implemented with the radiation system 10 of FIG. 1F, and that a configuration where a radiation source such as source 40 is within a ring can be incorporated and implemented in any embodiments such as those illustrated or described herein.

In the illustrated embodiments, the first radiation source 40 is a treatment radiation source for providing treatment energy. In such cases, the radiation system 10 further includes one or more collimators (not shown) for controlling a delivery of the radiation beam 42 (e.g., changing a shape of the beam 42). A collimator can be, for example, a multi-leaf collimator, which is known in the art. Alternatively, the first radiation source 40 can be a diagnostic radiation source for providing diagnostic energy. In some embodiments, the treatment energy is generally those energies of 160 keV or greater, and more typically 1 MeV or greater, and diagnostic energy is generally those energies below the high energy range, and more typically below 160 keV. In other embodiments, the treatment energy and the diagnostic energy can have other energy levels, and refer to energies that are used for treatment and diagnostic purposes, respectively. For example, a radiation beam having an energy level that is, typically used for treatment purpose may be considered as having a diagnostic energy level if the radiation beam is used for diagnostic purpose (e.g., for imaging). As such, the term “treatment energy” and the term “diagnostic energy” should not be limited to energy levels having certain magnitudes. In further embodiments, the first radiation source 40 is a multi-energy x-ray source that is capable of providing radiation energy at different energy levels. By way of example, the first radiation source 40 is able to generate X-ray radiation at a plurality of photon energy levels within a range anywhere between approximately 10 kilo-electron-volts (keV) and approximately 20 mega-electron-volts (MeV). Radiation sources capable of generating X-ray radiation at different energy levels are described in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/033,327, entitled “RADIOTHERAPY APPARATUS EQUIPPED WITH AN ARTICULABLE GANTRY FOR POSITIONING AN IMAGING UNIT,” filed on Nov. 2, 2001, and U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/687,573, entitled “MULTI-ENERGY X-RAY SOURCE,” filed on Oct. 15, 2003, both of which are expressly incorporated by reference in their entirety.

In some embodiments, the radiation system 10 further includes a control system 78. The control system 78 includes a processor 84, such as a computer processor, coupled to a control 80. The control system 78 may also include a monitor 86 for displaying data and an input device 88, such as a keyboard or a mouse, for inputting data. In some embodiments, during an operation of the radiation system 10, the radiation source 40 rotates about the patient (e.g., as in an arc-therapy). The rotation and the operation of the radiation source 40 are controlled by the control 80, which provides power and timing signals to the radiation source 40 and controls a rotational speed and position of the radiation source 40 based on signals received from the processor 84. Although the control 80 is shown as a separate component from the structure 12 and the processor 84, in alternative embodiments, the control 80 can be a part of the structure 12 or the processor 84.

In any of the embodiments described herein, the radiation system 10 can further include an imager 50 located next to the first opening 18 and opposite from the radiation source 40 (FIG. 1B). In some embodiments, the imager 50 includes a conversion layer made from a scintillator element, such as Cesium Iodide (CsI), and a photo detector array (e.g., a photodiode layer) coupled to the conversion layer. The conversion layer generates light photons in response to radiation, and the photo detector array, which includes a plurality of detector elements, is configured to generate electrical signal in response to the light photons from the conversion layer. The imager 50 can have a curvilinear surface (e.g., a partial circular arc). Such configuration is beneficial in that each of the imaging elements of the imager 50 is located substantially the same distance from the radiation source 40. In an alternative embodiment, the imager 50 may have a rectilinear surface or a surface having other profiles. The imager 50 can be made from amorphous silicon, crystal and silicon wafers, crystal and silicon substrate, or flexible substrate (e.g., plastic), and may be constructed using flat panel technologies or other techniques known in the art of making imaging device. In alternative embodiments, the imager 50 may use different detection schemes. For example, in alternative embodiments, instead of having the conversion layer, the imager 50 may include a photoconductor, which generates electron-hole-pairs or charges in response to radiation.

It should be noted that the configuration of the imager 50 should not be limited to the examples discussed previously, and that imagers having other configurations may be used in other embodiments. By way of example, U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/439,350, entitled “MULTI ENERGY X-RAY IMAGER” filed on May 15, 2003, discloses imaging devices capable of generating signals in response to multiple radiation energy levels, and can be used as the imager 50 in accordance with some embodiments. In addition, U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/013,199, entitled “X-RAY IMAGE ACQUISITION APPARATUS,” and filed on Nov. 2, 2001, discloses an image detecting device that is capable of detecting multiple energy level X-ray images, and can also be used as the imager 50 in accordance with other embodiments. U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/687,552, entitled “MULTI-ENERGY RADIATION DETECTOR,” and filed on Oct. 15, 2003, discloses multi-energy radiation detectors that can be used as the imager 50 in different embodiments. In other embodiments, the imager 50 can be implemented using flat panel technologies. Also, in further embodiments, the imager 50 can be a multi-slice flat panel. Multi-slice flat panel CT has been described in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/687,552, entitled “MULTI-SLICE FLAT PANEL COMPUTED TOMOGRAPHY,” and filed on Oct. 15, 2003. U.S. patent application Ser. Nos. 10/439,350, 10/013,199, and 10/687,550 are expressly incorporated by reference in their entirety. In other embodiments, the imager 50 may be similarly incorporated in the radiation system 10 of FIG. 1F, or in any of the radiation systems 10 described herein.

It should be noted that the radiation system 10 should not be limited to the configuration discussed previously, and that the radiation system 10 can have other configurations in other embodiments. For example, in some embodiments, the radiation system 10 can have the configuration shown in FIG. 1C. In the illustrated embodiments, the radiation system 10 includes the structure 12a, which has a configuration that is similar to that discussed previously with reference to structure 12 of FIG. 1A. The radiation system 10 also includes the arm 30 and the radiation source 40. However, in the illustrated embodiments, the arm 30 has a configuration that resembles a L-shape, and includes a first portion 54 and a second portion 55. The second portion 55 of the arm 30 has a first opening 19, a second opening 21, and a bore 56 extending between the first and the second openings 19, 21. As shown in FIG. 1E, which is a top view of the system of FIG. 1C, the arm 30 is rotatably coupled to the structure 12 via a cylindrical shaft 49, which circumscribe at least part of the bore 22 and at least part of the bore 56 in a coaxial configuration. In other embodiments, the arm 30 can be rotatably coupled to the structure 12 in other configurations. The bore 56 is positioned relative to the bore 22 such that at least a part of a patient can move through the bore 56 to the bore 22, and vice versa. In other embodiments, any of the features described herein can also be included with the radiation system 10 of FIG. 1C. For example, in other embodiments, the radiation source 40 can deliver diagnostic energy, and the radiation system 10 of FIG. 1C can further include an imager (e.g., the imager 50) in operative position with the radiation source 40 such that the radiation source 40 and the imager can be used to generate image data.

In some embodiments, any of the radiation systems 10 described herein can further include a x-ray source, such as tube 51 (an example of an imaging device) and an imager 52 (another example of an imaging device) secured to the second portion 54 of the arm 30 (FIG. 1D), wherein the x-ray tube 51 and the imager 52 are positioned to image at least a portion of the patient. The x-ray tube 51 and the imager 52 can be used to generate data regarding a patient while the patient is positioned in an operative position associated with the radiation source 40. For example, in some embodiments, the x-ray tube 51 generates a cone beam, and the imager 52 generates cone beam CT data, which represent image of a portion of a patient. Alternatively, the imaging devices can be used for radiography or fluoroscopic imaging. In the embodiments of FIG. 1A, the x-ray tube 51 and the imager 52 could be attached to ring 44. In the embodiments of FIG. 1F, the x-ray tube 51 and the imager 52 could be attached to the ring 53.

FIG. 2 illustrates the radiation system 10 of FIG. 1A when used with a computed tomography image acquisition device (CT device) 100. The CT device 100 includes a gantry 102 having a bore 103, a patient support 114 for supporting a patient 116, and a control system 108 for controlling an operation of the gantry 102. In the illustrated embodiments, the gantry 102 has a slip-ring configuration (donut shape). Alternatively, the gantry 102 can have other configurations, such as a C-arm configuration. The CT device 100 also includes a radiation source (e.g., x-ray source) 120 that projects a beam 122 of radiation towards a detector 124 on an opposite side of the gantry 102 while the patient 116 is positioned at least partially between the radiation source 120 and the detector 124. The radiation source 120 can be configured to generate a cone beam (for cone beam computed tomography—“CBCT”). In other embodiments, the radiation source 120 generates beams having other configurations, such as a fan beam. The detector 124 has a plurality of sensor elements configured for sensing radiation that passes through the patient. Each sensor element generates an electrical signal representative of an intensity of the radiation as it passes through the patient. It will be appreciated that throughout the present specification, although specific embodiments of various imaging devices may be illustrated by fan beam CT or cone beam CT, any type of CT generally can be practiced in any of the embodiments.

The control system 108 includes a processor 134, such as a computer processor, coupled to a gantry rotation control 141. The control system 108 may also include a monitor 156 for displaying data and an input device 158, such as a keyboard or a mouse, for inputting data. During a scan to acquire x-ray projection data (i.e., CT image data), the gantry 102 rotates about the patient. The rotation of the gantry 102 and the operation of the radiation source 120 are controlled by the gantry rotation control 141, which provides power and timing signals to the radiation source 120 and controls a rotational speed and position of the gantry 102 based on signals received from the processor 134. Although the control 141 is shown as a separate component from the gantry 102 and the processor 134, in alternative embodiments, the control 141 can be a part of the gantry 102 or the processor 134. In some embodiments, the processor 134 and the processor 84 are implemented using a same component, such as a single processor.

During a radiation procedure using the CT device 100, the radiation source 120 generates and directs a x-ray beam 122 towards the patient 116, while the detector 124 measures the x-ray absorption at a plurality of transmission paths defined by the x-ray beam during the process. The detector 124 produces a voltage proportional to the intensity of incident x-rays, and the voltage is read and digitized for subsequent processing in a computer. After image data at different gantry angles have been collected, the collected data are processed for reconstruction of a matrix (CT image), which constitutes a depiction of a density function of the bodily section being examined. By considering one or more of such sections, a skilled diagnostician can often diagnose various bodily ailments. In some cases, the one or more sections can also be used to perform treatment planning.

As shown in the figure, an axis 160 of the bore 103 of the CT device 100 is substantially parallel with (e.g., within 20° from) the axis 46 of the bore 22 of the radiation system 10. Such configuration allows the patient 116 to be transported between a first operative position (e.g., the position of the patient 116 when being operated (e.g., treated or imaged) by the radiation source 40 of the radiation system 10) and a second operative position (e.g., the position of the patient 116 when being operated by the radiation source 120 of the CT device 100). In the illustrated embodiments, the patient 116 can be transported between the first and second operative positions by positioning the patient support 114 in a linear manner along the axis 46 of the radiation system 10. Patient supports that can be used with the radiation system 10 will be described in further detail later. In the illustrated embodiments, the axis 160 of the bore 103 aligns with the axis 46 of the bore 22. In other embodiments, the axis 160 of the bore 103 may not align with the axis 46 of the bore 22. For example, in some embodiments, the axis of the bore 160 may be offset from the axis 46 of the bore 22.

In the illustrated embodiments of FIG. 2, the processor 134 used to control an operation of the CT device 100 is also coupled to the radiation system 10, and is configured to control an operation of the radiation system 10. Alternatively, a separate control system (e.g., the system 78) can be used to control an operation of the radiation system 10. Also, in some embodiments, the radiation system 10 includes the CT device 100. In such cases, the CT device 100 can be separated from the radiation system 10 as that shown in the figure. Alternatively, the CT device 100 can be integrated with the radiation system 10 as a single unit.

In some embodiments, the electron accelerator 31 associated with the radiation source 40 may cause interference with the device 100. In such cases, a shield (not shown) can be placed between the accelerator 31 and the device 100 to prevent, or at least minimize the effect of, interference due to the accelerator 31. The shield can be made from Mumetal or other materials. In some embodiments, the shield can be placed around the accelerator 31. In other embodiments, the shield can be placed around the device 100 or a component (e.g., a component that may be affected by a magnetic field from the accelerator 31) of the device 100. In other embodiments, the shield can be secured to the structure 12, such as to the second side 16 of the structure 12.

It should be noted that the devices that can be used/included with the radiation system 10 should not be limited to the CT device 100 discussed previously, and that a variety of forms of medical devices (e.g., devices with a ring gantry) can be used/included with the radiation system 10 in other embodiments. For example, in some embodiments, the device 100 used/included with the radiation system 10 may be a diagnostic/treatment device having a C-arm configuration (FIG. 3). The device 100 is positioned relative to the bore 22 such that a patient can be positioned between a first operative position associated with the radiation source 40, and a second operative position associated with the device 100. In any embodiment, the device 100 can be any diagnostic device, such as a laminar tomography device, a MRI device, a fluoroscope, an angiography device, a PET device, a SPECT device, a PET-CT device, a tomosynthesis imaging device, a CT device, a CBCT device, etc. that can be used/included with the radiation system 10. In such cases, the diagnostic device 100 is positioned relative to the bore 22 such that a patient can be positioned between a first operative position associated with the radiation source 40, and a second operative position associated with the diagnostic device. In further embodiments, the device 100 used/included with the radiation system 10 may include a plurality of diagnostic devices (e.g., any multiple, or any combination, of the diagnostic devices described).

In the above embodiments, the radiation system 10 can further include rollers that allows the radiation system 10 to be “rolled” to a desired position. After the radiation system 10 is desirably positioned, the rollers may be locked to thereby prevent the radiation system 10 from moving. For example, the rollers may be locked during an operation. The rollers are advantageous because it allows the flexibility to readily move the radiation system 10 (e.g., before an operation, or during an operation). In other embodiments, the rollers are optional, and the radiation system 10 is fixedly secured to a floor of an operation room.

In some embodiments, the radiation system 10 can further include a docking system that allows a device 100 to be docked next to the second opening 20 in a desired relationship (either during an operation, or before an operation). Various techniques can be employed to implement the docking feature of the radiation system 10. FIG. 4A illustrates the radiation system 10 of FIG. 1A that includes a docking system 160 for allowing a device 166 to be docked next to the structure 12. The device 166 is represented as a block diagram, and can be a treatment device or a diagnostic device (such as any of the devices 100 discussed previously). In the illustrated embodiments, the docking system 160 is a rail system that includes a first rail 162 and a second rail 164 located adjacent to the second side 16 of the radiation system 10. The rails 162, 164 can be secured to the radiation system 10, a floor at which the radiation system 10 sits, or a platform (not shown) that is itself secured to the radiation system 10 or the floor. The rails 162, 164 each have a substantially rectilinear profile, but can have a curvilinear profile in other embodiments. Also, in other embodiments, the docking system 160 can have less than two (e.g., one) rails, or more than two rails.

FIGS. 4B and 4C illustrate a method of docking a device 166 adjacent to the second side 16 of the radiation system 10 in accordance with some embodiments. The device 166 is represented as a block diagram, and can be a treatment device or a diagnostic device (such as any of the devices 100 discussed previously). As shown in FIG. 4B, before the device 166 is docked, the device 166 is positioned such that its wheels/rollers 168 are aligned with the rails 162, 164 of the docking system 160. The device 166 is then advanced such that the rollers 168 engage with the docking system 160. Next, the device 166 is further advanced, while guided by the docking system 160, until the device 166 is docked next to the second opening 20 of the radiation system 10 (FIG. 4C). In some embodiments, the docking system 160 can further include a locking device (not shown), which can be used to lock the device 166 in place when the device 166 is desirably positioned.

In some embodiments, the position of one or both of the rails 162, 164 of the docking system 160 can be adjusted such that the docking system 160 can accommodate different devices 166 having different configurations. For example, in some embodiments, the distance between the rails 162, 164 can be varied such that devices 166 having different roller spacing can be docked. Also, in other embodiments, one or more rails can be removed or added to the docking system 160 for allowing devices 166 having different number of rollers to be docked. In some embodiments, the docking system 160 can further include the rollers 168 of the device 166.

It should be noted that the docking system 160 should not be limited to the example discussed previously, and that the docking system 160 can be implemented using other techniques. For example, in other embodiments, instead of, or in addition to rail(s), the structure 12 and the device 166 can have a key-type docking mechanism, which allows a portion of the structure 12 to mate with a portion of the device 166, or other alignment devices, including visual alignment marks, sensors, or other means, which allow the device 166 to be positioned in a desired relationship relative to the radiation system 10. In further embodiments, the device 166 does not include rollers 168. Instead, the device 166 can be positioned using a crane, air cushion, a positioner, glide block(s), or other transportation mechanism.

In some embodiments, instead of, or in addition to, the docking system 160, the radiation system 10 can further include a docking system 170 for allowing the structure 12 to be docked into a desired position. Various techniques can be employed to implement the docking feature of the radiation system 10.

FIG. 5A illustrates the radiation system 10 of FIG. 1A that includes a docking system 170. In the illustrated embodiments, the docking system 170 includes a roller system having a set of first roller(s) 172 and a second set of roller(s) 174 located adjacent to a bottom portion of the radiation system 10. In other embodiments, the docking system 170 can have less than two (e.g., one) roller, or more than sets of two rollers. In the illustrated embodiments, the roller sets 172, 174 are configured to mate with rails 176, 178 of a rail system 180. The rail system 180 can be secured to another device, such as the device 166, a floor at which the radiation system 10 sits, or a platform that is placed against a floor or secured to the device 166. The rails 176, 178 each have a substantially rectilinear profile, but can have a curvilinear profile in other embodiments. In some embodiments, the docking system 170 can further includes the rail system 180.

FIGS. 5B and 5C illustrate a method of docking the radiation system 10 to a desired position, e.g., adjacent to the device 166, in accordance with some embodiments. The device 166 is represented as a block diagram, and can be a treatment device or a diagnostic device (such as any of those discussed previously). As shown in FIG. 5B, before the radiation system 10 is docked, the radiation system 10 is positioned such that its roller sets 172, 174 are aligned with the rails 176, 178. The radiation system 10 is then advanced such that the roller sets 172, 174 engage with the rails 176, 178, respectively. Next, the radiation system 10 is further advanced, while guided by the rails 176, 178, until the radiation system 10 is docked next to the device 166 (FIG. 5C). In some embodiments, the docking system 170 can further include a locking device (not shown), such as a brake system, which can be used to lock the radiation system 10 in place when the radiation system 10 is desirably positioned.

In some embodiments, the position of one or both of the roller sets 172, 174 of the docking system 170 can be adjusted such that the radiation system 10 can be mated with rails having different configurations. For example, in some embodiments, the distance between the roller sets 172, 174 can be varied such that the radiation system 10 can be docked with rails having different spacing. Also, in other embodiments, one or more roller sets can be removed or added to the docking system 170 for allowing the radiation system 10 to dock with a rail system having different number of rails.

It should be noted that the docking system 170 should not be limited to the example discussed previously, and that the docking system 170 can be implemented using other techniques. For example, in other embodiments, the structure 12 and the device 166 can have a key-type docking mechanism, which allows a portion of the structure 12 to mate with a portion of the device 166. In alternative embodiments, the docking system 170 can have a first portion (e.g., a protrusion) associated with the radiation system 10, and a second portion (e.g., a component having a recess) associated with the device 166, wherein the first portion and/or the second portion are configured to mate with each other. The first and second portions of a docking system can be implemented using any machinery, device, or system known in the art, including those described earlier in relation to FIGS. 4A-4C. In other embodiments, the radiation system 10 can include other alignment devices, which allow the radiation system 10 to be positioned in a desired relationship relative to the device 166. In further embodiments, the radiation system 10 does not include the roller system. Instead, the radiation system 10 can be positioned using a crane, air cushion, a positioner, glide block(s), or other transportation mechanism.

In any of the docking systems described herein, the docking system can further include one or more facilities, such as a water line, an electricity connection, an oil supply, etc., that connects to the device (such as the structure 12 or the device 166) as the device is being docked (or after the device is docked). In some embodiments, the facilities can be located on, underneath a floor, or underneath a platform that is secured to the floor. Alternatively, or additionally, the docking system can allow for provision of facilities from one device, such as device 12, to one or more others.

Also, in any of the docking systems described herein, the docking system can further include a communication system that allows one device to communicate with the device 166 or another device. For example, in some embodiments in which the device 166 is being docked, the structure 12 includes a signal receiver and/or a transmitter, and the device 166 includes a signal transmitter and/or a receiver. During use, the signal transmitter of, e.g., the device 166 transmits signals to the structure 12 regarding a position of the device 166 (e.g., relative to a prescribed coordinate system). The signal receiver of the structure 12 receives the transmitted signal, and generates an output based on the transmitted signal. In some embodiments, the output can be displayed on a user interface, such as a computer screen, which allows an operator to perform an action based on the output. In other embodiments, the devices can perform or assist in docking (including, e.g., gross positioning and/or fine positioning). For example, the device 166 can be configured to automatically position itself based on the received output. In further embodiments, the structure 12 can include a position sensor which senses a position of the device 166, and a transmitter that transmits steering signals to the device 166. In such cases, the device 166 includes a receiver, which receives the steering signals and steers itself into a desired position relative to the structure 12 based on the steering signals. Other communication techniques can also be used in other embodiments.

FIG. 6A illustrates a patient support system 200 that can be used with any of the embodiments of the radiation system 10 described herein, or with any radiation system, such as a treatment device or a diagnostic device. The patient support system 200 includes a patient support 201 having a first end 202, a second end 204, and a support surface 206 that extends between the first and second ends 202, 204. In some embodiments, the support surface 206 of the patient support 201 can include a plurality of envelopes that can be filled with a fluid (gas or liquid). The envelopes can be selectively filled to create a desired topography of the support surface 206, thereby allowing a patient to be correctly placed on the support surface 206. For example, in some embodiments, the envelopes adjacent the perimeter of the support surface 206 can be selectively filled to create a recess in a center portion of the support surface 206. Alternatively, small individual regions can have mechanically or thermally positionable mechanisms to provide various shapes in the support surface. The shape of the support surface 206 can accommodate a shape of a patient or a portion thereof. The precise shape for a given patient determined, e.g., during treatment planning or a previous session, can be stored and used later such that when the patient lies on the support surface 206, the patient will be correctly positioned relative to the support surface 206. In other embodiments, the support surface 206 does not include the envelopes or other positionable mechanism.

The patient support system 200 also includes a positioner 208 (represented as a block diagram) for positioning the patient support 201. In particular, the positioner 208 is configured to position the patient support 201 at a first operative position such that radiation beam from the radiation source 40 can be delivered to a portion 117 (e.g., a target region) of the patient 116 (FIG. 7), and a second operative position such that the device 166 can be used to operate on the portion 117 of the patient 116 (FIG. 8). As shown in FIGS. 7 and 8, the portion 117 of the patient 116 is positioned on (adjacent to) the first side 14 of the structure 12 when it is being treated by the radiation source 40, and is positioned on (adjacent to) the second side 16 of the structure 12 (e.g., within a gantry of the device 166) when it is being imaged by the device 166. In the illustrated embodiments of FIGS. 6A, 7, and 8, the patient support system 200 is located on the first side 14 of the structure 12. Alternatively, the patient support system 200 (or any of the patient support systems described herein) can be located on the second side 16 of the structure 12 (FIG. 6B). In such cases, the positioner 208 places the patient support 201 at the first operative position associated with the radiation source 40 by translating at least a part of the patient support 201 past the device 166.

In some embodiments, the device 166 is an imaging device, such as a CT device. In such cases, the positioner 208 can be used to position the patient support 201 (and therefore, the patient 116) at the second operative position associated with the imaging device 166, thereby allowing the imaging device 166 to obtain image data of an internal bodily structure of the patient 116. The obtained image data can then be used to create, or modify, a treatment plan, or to perform patient positioning. In some embodiments, the treatment plan includes parameters (such as a size and shape of a target region, an amount of radiation to be delivered to the target region, margin requirements, etc.) that can be used in a radiation treatment session to treat a portion of the patient 116. Methods of creating treatment plans using image data are known to those skilled in the art.

In some embodiments, the obtained image data can be used to verify a position, orientation, and/or a shape, of a target region (e.g., a tissue intended to be treated with radiation). For example, the obtained image data using the imaging device 166 can be compared against a previously obtained image data associated with the treatment plan to determine whether a target region has changed location, size, or shape. After a position, orientation, and/or a shape of the target region has been verified, the positioner 208 can position the patient 116 to the first operative position, at which the radiation source 40 can be used to deliver radiation beam 42 to treat the patient 116.

In some embodiments, the positioner 208 does not move the patient 116 while radiation is being delivered to the patient 116 from the radiation source 40. In other embodiments, the positioner 208 can be used to move the patient 116 while radiation is being delivered from the radiation source.

In some embodiments, after the patient 116 has been treated, the positioner 208 can be used to position the patient 116 from a first operative position to a second operative position. While the patient 116 is at the second operative position, the imaging device 166 is used to obtain image data of the treated area of the patient 116. The obtained image data can then be used to determine an effect (e.g., an effectiveness, accuracy, etc.) of the previously performed treatment procedure. In some embodiments, the obtained image data can be used to determine a next treatment plan (for a next treatment session) based on a treatment result from an earlier treatment session. For example, the obtained image data may be used to create the next treatment plan, or to modify a previously determined treatment plan, for a next treatment (e.g., next radiation segment, or next radiation session).

It should be noted from the above embodiments that the patient support system 200 is advantageous in that it allows the patient 116 to be treated and imaged without moving the patient 116 from one patient support (e.g., a patient support associated with a treatment device) to another patient support (e.g., a patient support associated with a diagnostic device). This in turn limits, or reduces the risk of, misalignment of the patient 116, and/or misalignment of a target region within the patient 116, relative to a treatment/diagnostic machine. The patient support system 200 is also advantageous because it saves setup time.

Also, in some embodiments, the radiation system 10 may have imaging capability. For example, an imager may be placed opposite the source 40. Moreover, one or more diagnostic x-ray sources and imager(s) opposite the source(s) may be provided. In some embodiments, one or more of the diagnostic sources and one or more imagers may be disposed in the same plane as the treatment source 40. Such image data can be obtained for at least a portion (e.g., a target region) of the patient 116 while the patient 116 is at the first operative position. For example, before or after a treatment session, or in between treatment radiation delivery sessions, the radiation system 10 can deliver radiation energy to image a target region of the patient 116. The obtained image data can be used to verify a position, an orientation, and/or a shape, of the target region, and/or to evaluate an effect of a treatment session. In any embodiment, image data obtained using the imaging capability of system 10 can be processed with image data obtained using one or more of the device 166, and/or one or more images from a previous diagnostic or planning session, for treatment evaluation, treatment planning, and/or patient positioning.

FIG. 9 illustrates the patient support system 200 of FIG. 7 in accordance with some embodiments. The patient support system 200 can be used with any of the embodiments of the radiation system 10 described herein, or with any radiation system, such as a treatment device or a diagnostic device. In some embodiments, the positioner 208 includes an actuator 240, a cylinder 242 coupled to the actuator 240, and a set of supports 244, 246, wherein the patient support 201 is slidably coupled to the supports 244, 246. In other embodiments, the supports 244, 246 are part of the patient support 201, in which cases, the positioner 208 does not include the supports 244, 246. During use, the actuator 240 delivers hydraulic pressure to activate the cylinder 242, which in turn, causes the patient support 201 to translate in a first direction indicated by arrow 248. The actuator 240 can also remove hydraulic pressure to activate the cylinder 242, which in turn, causes the patient support 201 to translate in a second direction indicated by arrow 250. The supports 244, 246 provides vertical support for the patient support 201 as the patient support 201 is being positioned by the actuator 240. In some embodiments, the supports 244, 246 are rails, and the patient support 201 includes a set of protrusions (e.g., wheels) that mate with the respective rails. Such configuration allows the patient support 201 to be guided in a desired manner as the patient support 201 is being positioned by the actuator 240.

It should be noted that the patient support system 200 should not be limited to the example discussed previously, and that the patient support system 200 can have other configurations in other embodiments. For example, in other embodiments, instead of the hydraulic pressure actuating cylinder 242, the positioner 208 can include a motor, such as an electric motor, a pneumatic motor, or a piezoelectric motor, for positioning the patient support 201. In some embodiments, the motor couples to a screw shaft and causes the screw shaft to turn. The screw shaft is coupled to the patient support 201, which positions the patient support 201 by rotation of the screw shaft. Also, in other embodiments, the supports 244, 246 can have configurations that are different from that shown in the figure. For example, instead of the bottom side of the patient support 201, the supports 244, 246 can be coupled to the top side of the patient support 201 or to side edges of the patient support 201. In other embodiments, the positioner 208 can be implemented using machineries, devices, and systems that are known in the art of positioning devices.

In the above embodiments, the patient support system 200 is configured to translate linearly substantially along the axis 46 of the radiation system 10. In other embodiments, the patient support system 200 can also have other degrees of freedom. FIG. 10A illustrates the patient support system 200 having multiple degrees of freedom in accordance with some embodiments. The patient support system 200 can be used with any of the embodiments of the radiation system 10 described herein, or with any radiation system, such as a treatment device or a diagnostic device. In the illustrated embodiments, the positioner 208 includes a first base portion 300, a second base portion 302 that is rotatably coupled to the first base portion 300, a first actuator 304 for turning a shaft 306, a second actuator 308 for rotating a third actuator 310, the third actuator 310, a cylinder 312 coupled to the third actuator 310, and a set of supports 314, 316. The first actuator 304 can be, for example, a motor, that rotates the shaft 306, thereby causing the patient support 201 to roll or rotate about a first axis 324. The second actuator 308 can be, for example, a motor, that causes rotation of the third actuator 310 about a second axis 326, thereby creating an inclined angle or pitch for the patient support 201. The third actuator 310 is configured to actuate the cylinder 312, thereby causing the patient support 201 to translate in directions 248, 250, as similarly discussed previously with reference to FIG. 9. In some embodiments, the positioner 208 can further include a fourth actuator (not shown) for causing the second base portion 302 to rotate relative to the first base portion 300 about a third axis 328. Also, in other embodiments, the positioner 208 can further include an actuator for translating the patient support 201 in the directions 329a, 329b. In further embodiments, the positioner 208 can further include an actuator for changing an elevation of the patient support 201 (e.g., moving the patient support 201 in either of the directions 341, 342). In some embodiments, such feature may be desirable if the bore 22 of the radiation system 10 is offset (e.g., higher or lower) than the bore of the adjacent device (e.g., bore 160 of the device in FIG. 2). In such cases, after the patient has been treated at the first operative position associated with the structure 12, the patient will be moved to the second operative position associated with the adjacent device by translating the patient support longitudinally and raising (or lowering) the patient support. This will ensure that the patient support is located at a desired elevation relative to the second bore. The various actuators described herein can be implemented using machineries, devices, and systems that are known in the art of positioning devices. The axes described herein can be positioned in different locations than those shown herein as desired.

Providing multiple degrees of freedom for the patient support 201 is advantageous in that it allows the patient 116 to be treated or imaged in different configurations, and allows matching of patient position and/or orientation from session to session (e.g., from a first imaging session to a second imaging session, from a first treatment session to a second treatment session, and/or from a treatment session to an imaging session, or vice versa). For example, in some embodiments, the patient support 201 can be rotated about the axis 324 to place the patient 116 in a desired orientation before the radiation source 40 is used to deliver radiation to the patient 116. In other embodiments, the patient support 201 can be rotated about the axis 324 while the radiation source 40 is delivering radiation to the patient 116. In some embodiments, the rotation of the patient support 201 about the axis 324 can be used to compensate for slippage of the radiation source 40 relative to the structure 12. In other embodiments, the patient support 201 can be rotated about the axis 324 in accordance with a treatment plan to thereby allow a target region of the patient 116 to be treated from different angles. Providing for pitch (e.g. rotation about axis 326) and/or yaw (e.g. rotation about axis 328) type motions allow for providing non coplanar fields. In further embodiments, the positioning (in any or a combination of the degrees of freedom described herein) provided by any of the embodiments of the patient positioning system 200 may be used to execute and/or update a treatment plan. For example, instead of or in addition to modifying a gantry angle, a position of the patient in one or more axes may be modified based on images of the patient.

As shown in the figure, the patient support system 200 has a cantilever configuration. To eliminate, or at least reduce, the effect of tipping due to the cantilever configuration, the patient support system 200 further includes a weight 322 secured to the second base portion 302. In other embodiments, the patient support system 200 does not include the weight 322. For example, if the first actuator 304 is made sufficiently heavy to prevent tipping of the patient support 201, then the weight 322 is not needed. Also, in other embodiments, instead of the cantilever configuration shown, the patient support system 200 can have other configurations, such as a simply-supported configuration, which includes an additional support (not shown) for supporting the first end 202 of the patient support 201. In further embodiments, the patient support system 200 is secured to a floor, a platform, or a structure, such as a rotatable platform. Rotatable platform will be described later with reference to FIGS. 13A and 13B.

In the illustrated embodiments, the patient support system 200 further includes a docking device 317 which allows the patient support system 200 to be docked into a desired position. In some embodiments, the docking device 317 includes a first set of rollers 318 on a first side of the first base portion 300, and a second set of rollers 320 on a second side of the first base portion 300. In other embodiments, the docking device 317 can have less than two (e.g., one) set of rollers, or more than two sets of rollers. Also, in other embodiments, the docking device 317 can have less than two rollers 318/322 or more than two rollers 318/322 per set. Alternatively, any technique or device for moving the patient support 200, including any of those described in conjunction with moving device 166 described earlier, may be used.

FIG. 10B illustrates a top view of an environment in which the patient support system 200 of FIG. 10A can be used. As shown in FIG. 10B, three sets 330a-330c of rails are provided adjacent to the radiation system 10. The first rail set 330a includes first and second rails 332a, 332b, the second rail set 330b includes first and second rails 332c, 332d, and the third rail set 330c includes first and second rails 332e, 332f. The rails 332a, 332b of the first set 330a are configured (e.g., sized and shaped) to mate with the sets 318, 320 of rollers, respectively. The rails 332c, 332d of the second set 330b are configured (e.g., sized and shaped) to mate with the sets 318, 320 of rollers, respectively. The rails 332e, 332f of the third set 330c are configured (e.g., sized and shaped) to mate with the sets 318, 320 of rollers, respectively. In other embodiments, instead of having three sets 330a-330c of rails 332. Less than three sets (e.g., one set), or more than three sets of rails can be provided. Also, in other embodiments, instead of having two rails 332 per set 330, each set 330 can have less than two rails 332 or more than two rails 332.

In some embodiments, the position of one or both of the sets 318, 320 of rollers of the patient support system 200 can be adjusted such that the patient support system 200 can be mated with rails having different configurations. For example, in some embodiments, the distance between the sets 318, 320 of rollers can be varied such that the patient support system 200 can be docked with rails having different spacing. Also, in other embodiments, one or more rollers can be removed or added to the patient support system 200 for allowing the patient support system 200 to dock with a rail system having different number of rails. In some embodiments, the docking system 317 of the patient support system 200 can further include the rails 332.

In other embodiments, the position of one or both of the rails 332 in each rail set 330 can be adjusted such that the rail system can accommodate different patient support systems having different configurations. For example, in some embodiments, the distance between the rails 332 in each set 330 can be varied such that patient support systems 200 having different roller spacing can be docked. Also, in other embodiments, one or more rails can be removed or added for allowing patient support systems 200 having different number of rollers to be docked.

It should be noted that the docking device 317 of the patient support system 200 should not be limited to the examples discussed previously, and that the docking device 317 can have other configurations in other embodiments. For example, in some embodiments, the docking device 317 can have a first portion associated with the patient support system 200, and a second portion associated with the radiation system 10, wherein the first portion and/or the second portion are configured to mate with each other. The first and second portions of the docking device 317 can be implemented using any machinery, device, or system known in the art. As such, the docking device 317 of the patient support system 200 may or may not include rollers, and may or may not include rails 332. In further embodiments, any of the features or components described with reference to FIGS. 4 and 5 may be used to implement the docking device 317.

In one method of use, the patient support system 200 of FIG. 10A can be docked into a desired position relative to the radiation system 10 using the first set 330a of rails 332a, 332b (FIG. 10C). As shown in FIG. 10C, a longitudinal axis 340 of the patient support 201 is substantially parallel (e.g., within a prescribed range of angles, such as between 0° to 20°) with the axis 46 of the bore 22 of the radiation system 10. In such configuration, at least part of the patient support 201 can be positioned through the bore 22. In another method of use, the patient support system 200 of FIG. 10A can be docked into a desired position relative to the radiation system 10 using the second set 330b of rails 332c, 332d (FIG. 10D). When docked using the second set 330b of rails 332c, 332d, the longitudinal axis 340 of the patient support 201 is substantially non-parallel (e.g., forming an angle that is larger than a prescribed value, such as, 5°) with the axis 46 of the bore 22 of the radiation system 10. Such configuration allows the patient 116 supported on the patient support 201 to be treated in a non-coplanar manner. In yet another method of use, the patient support system 200 of FIG. 10A can be docked into a desired position relative to the radiation system 10 using the third set 330c of rails 332e, 332f (FIG. 1E). Such configuration allows the patient 116 supported on the patient support 201 to be treated in another non-coplanar manner. In yet another method of use, the patient support system 200 of FIG. 10A can be docked next to the radiation system 10 in a side-by-side manner using a fourth set 330d of rails (FIG. 10F). Such configuration allows the patient 116 supported on the patient support 201 to be treated in another non-coplanar manner. In some cases, for any of the configurations of FIGS. 1C-10E, the position and/or orientation of the patient support 201 can be further adjusted (e.g., by translating and/or rotating the patient support 201) after the patient support system 200 is docked.

In other embodiments, instead of, or in addition to, having the rail sets 330 adjacent to the first side 14 of the radiation system 10, one or more rail sets can be provided adjacent to the second side 16 of the radiation system 10. Such configuration allows the patient support system 200 to be docked adjacent to the second side 16 of the radiation system 10, thereby allowing the patient support 201 to be inserted into the bore 22 of the radiation system 10 from the second side 16 of the radiation system 10. For example, in other embodiments, the device 166 can be first docked next to the radiation system 10. The patient support system 200 is then docked next to the device 166, thereby allowing the patient support 201 to be inserted into the bore 22 of the radiation system 10 through at least a portion of the device 166.

In other embodiments, instead of providing multiple sets of rails, a single set of rail(s) may be provided for allowing the patient support system 200 to be placed at different positions relative to the radiation system 10. FIG. 10G illustrates a set 330e of rails 332g, 332h that are positioned next to the radiation system 10. Each of the rails 332g, 332h has an arc shape, which allows the patient support system 200 to be slid in a curvilinear manner around the radiation system 10. This in turn allows the patient support system 200 to be placed at different positions relative to the radiation system 10. In other embodiments, the rail set 330e can have more than two rails or less than two rails (e.g., one rail). In some embodiments, the patient support system 200 is detachably coupled to the rail set 330 (e.g., the patient support system 200 can include a docking system for allowing the patient support system 200 to be docked against the rail set 330).

In further embodiments, the rail set 330e can have different configurations. For example, as shown in FIG. 10H, the rail set 330e can have an arc shape that allows the patient support system 200 to be positioned from one side of the structure 12 (e.g., at the first operative position associated with the radiation source 40), to another side of the structure 12 (e.g., at the second operative position associated with the device 166). In alternative embodiments, the rail set 330e can have a ring configuration that loops substantially around the radiation system 10 and the device 166. In the embodiment of FIG. 10H, the patient support surface may be carried along with the other portions of the patient support system 200. Alternatively, the patient support surface may temporarily be engaged with system 10 and/or system 12, as will be described in more detail below, and a portion of the patient support system 200 without the support surface may travel along the rail set 330e and access the support surface from either side.

It should be noted that the patient support system 200 of FIG. 10A should not be limited to the examples described previously, and that the patient support system 200 can have different configurations in other embodiments. In other embodiments, the patient support 201 does not have some, a combination, or all, of the degree of freedom described previously. For example, in some embodiments, the positioner 208 does not include the first actuator 304, the second actuator 308, or both. Also, in other embodiments, the relative positions of the actuators 304, 308, 310 can be different from that shown in the figure. Further, in other embodiments, the patient support system 200 does not include the docking device 317. In such cases, the patient support system 200 can be fixedly secured to a floor.

In other embodiments, instead of using the patient support system 200 with the radiation system 10 and the device 166 (e.g.; the device 100) having the configuration shown in FIG. 6 (which shows the structure 12 and the device 166 being in a front-to-back or front-to-front configuration), any of the embodiments of the patient support system 200 described herein can be used with the radiation system 10 and the device 166 having other configurations. FIGS. 11A and 11B illustrate the radiation system 10 of FIG. 1, and the device 166, wherein the device 166 is placed closer to the first side 14 than the second side 16 of the structure 12 in a front-to-front configuration. The device 166 is illustrated as the CT device, but can be any of the diagnostic/treatment devices described herein. In such cases, any of the embodiments of the patient support system 200 described herein can be placed between the radiation system 10 and the device 166. During use, the patient support system 200 positions the patient support 201 at the first operative position associated such that the radiation source 40 can be used to deliver the radiation beam 42 to treat the patient 116 (FIG. 11A). If it is desired that the patient 116 be imaged, for example, the patient support 201 is first translated to remove the patient support 201 out of the bore 22 of the radiation system 10. The second base portion 302 of the patient support system 200 is then rotated relative to the first base portion 300 about the axis 328, until the patient support 201 is closer to the device 166 than the radiation system 10. The patient support 201 is then translated axially until the patient support 201 is located at the second operative position at which the patient 116 can be operated by the device 166 (FIG. 11B). The above described operation of the patient support system 200 can be reversed if it is desired to move the patient support 201 from the second operative position associated with the device 166 to the first operative position associated with the radiation source 40.

In other embodiments, instead of using the patient support system 200 in an environment in which the radiation system 10 and the device 166 are placed in a front-to-front manner (such as that shown in FIG. 11A), the patient support system 200 can be placed between the radiation system 10 and the device 166 that are placed in a back-to-back manner. Also, in other embodiments, instead of the radiation system 10 and/or the device 166 described herein, any of the embodiments of the patient support system 200 can be used with other treatment machine and/or diagnostic machine. For example, in some embodiments, the patient support system 200 can be placed between a radiation treatment machine having a configuration that is different from that shown in FIG. 1, and a diagnostic machine, such as an imaging device.

FIGS. 12A-12C illustrate a patient support system 400 in accordance with other embodiments. The support system 400 includes a first positioner 402, a second positioner 404, and a patient support 406. The first positioner 402 is located adjacent to the radiation system 10, and the second positioner 404 is located adjacent to the device 166. The patient support 406 has a first end 407 and a second end 409.

The first positioner 402 includes an actuator 408, a coupler 410 that is used to detachably secure the patient support 406 to the positioner 402, and a support system 412 coupled to the patient support 406 and the actuator 408. The actuator 408 can be a motor, a hydraulic mechanism, or other mechanism, and is configured to position the patient support 406 along the axis 46 of the bore 22. As the patient support 406 is being positioned by the actuator 408, the support system 412 provides structural support for the patient support 406. In some embodiments, the support system 412 includes a pair of supports, such as the supports 244, 246 discussed previously with reference to FIG. 9. Alternatively, the support system 412 can have other configurations (e.g., having a platform). In the illustrated embodiments, the coupler 410 includes a jaw assembly 414 having a first jaw 416 and a second jaw 418, and is configured to engage with the first end 407 of the patient support 406. As shown in FIG. 12A, the jaw assembly 414 is in a closed position, thereby detachably coupling the patient support 406 to the first positioner 402. In other embodiments, instead of the jaw assembly 414, the coupler 410 can have other configurations that allow the coupler 410 to detachably secure to a portion of the patient support 406. For example, in other embodiments, the coupler 410 can include one or more dowels or protrusions that are sized to be inserted in respective slot(s) at the patient support 406. The dowel(s) or protrusion(s) may be used to provide moment resistance resulted from the patient 116 being supported on the patient support 406. The coupler 410 may further include a locking mechanism for securing to the patient support 406 after the dowel(s) or protrusion(s) have been inserted into respective slot(s). In further embodiments, the coupler 410 may have other types of securing mechanisms for detachably coupling to the patient support 406. Also, in alternative embodiments, instead of the first end 407, the coupler 410 can engage with other portion(s) of the patient support 406.

In some embodiments, the second positioner 404 may be similar to the first positioner 402, and includes an actuator 420, a coupler 424 that is used to detachably secure the patient support 406 to the second positioner 404, and a support system 426 coupled to the patient support 406 and the actuator 420. The actuator 420 can be a motor, a hydraulic mechanism, or other mechanism, and is configured to position the patient support 406 along the axis 160 of the lumen 122. As the patient support 406 is being positioned by the actuator 420, the support system 426 provides structural support for the patient support 406. In some embodiments, the support system 426 includes a pair of supports, such as the supports 244, 246 discussed previously with reference to FIG. 9. Alternatively, the support system 426 can have other configurations. The coupler 424 includes a jaw assembly 428 having a first jaw 430 and a second jaw 432, and is configured to engage with the second end 409 of the patient support 406. In other embodiments, instead of the jaw assembly 428, the coupler 424 can have other configurations that allow the coupler 424 to detachably secure to a portion of the patient support 406. Also, in alternative embodiments, instead of the second end 409, the coupler 424 can engage with other portion(s) of the patient support 406.

In other embodiments, the second positioner 404 can have a configuration that is different from the first positioner 402. For example, in other embodiments, the second positioner 404 can have number of degrees of freedom, and/or degrees of freedom, that are different from those of the first positioner 402.

The patient support system 400 can be used to position the patient 116 at a first operative position (e.g., the position of the patient 116/patient support 406 at which the patient 116 can be treated by the radiation source 40), and at a second operative position (e.g., the position of the patient 116/patient support 406 at which the patient 116 can be operated by the device 166). For example, as shown in FIG. 12A, the coupler 410 can engage with the patient support 406 to thereby allow the actuator 408 to control a position of the patient support 406. In some embodiments, the actuator 408 is coupled to a processor (such as any of the processors described herein), which controls an operation of the actuator 408. For example, the processor 84/134 can provide signals to the actuator 408 to cause the actuator 408 to position the patient support 406 along the axis 46 during, or in between, radiation delivery sessions.

If it is desired to place the patient 116 at the second operative position, the actuator 408 then advances the patient support 406 further into the bore 22 until the second end 409 of the patient support 406 is engaged with the coupler 424 of the second positioner 404 (FIG. 12B). When the coupler 424 is engaged with the second end 409, the jaws 430, 432 of the jaw assembly 428 are closed to grab onto the second end 409 of the patient support 406. After the coupler 424 is engaged with the patient support 406, the coupler 410 of the first positioner 402 is then disengaged (e.g., by opening the jaw assembly 414) with the first side 407 of the patient support 406 (FIG. 12C). The patient support 406 can then be positioned by the second positioner 404 until the patient support 406 is at the second operative position. During use of the device 166, the second positioner 404 can be used to position the patient support 406 along the axis 160 associated with the device 166.

In other embodiments, the patient support system 400 can have configurations that are different from those described previously. For example, in other embodiments, the patient support system 400 can include other types of mechanical devices or systems that allow the patient support 406 to be passed from one positioner to another positioner. Also, in other embodiments, the radiation system 10 and/or the device 166 can have a mechanical component that temporarily engages the patient support 406 before the patient support is passed from a first positioner to a second positioner. In such cases, the first positioner may or may not engage with the patient support 406 while the radiation system 10 and/or the device 166 is engaged with the patient support 406. In some embodiments, a single positioner can be used such that after the system 10 and/or system 166 has engaged the patient support 406, the positioner is moved to the opposite side to engage the patient support 406 from that side.

In further embodiments, the radiation system 10 or the device 166 can include a positioner for positioning the patient support 406. In such cases, the patient support system 400 does not include the positioner 404 (or the positioner 402), and the positioner 402 (or the positioner 404) can be used to position the patient support 406 through a first range of positions, and pass the patient support 406 to the positioner of the radiation system 10 or the device 166, which can be used to position the patient support 406 through a second range of positions. The first range of positions and the second range of positions may or may not overlap.

In any of the embodiments of the patient support system 200/400 described herein, the positioner 208 (or positioner 402 or 404) can be coupled to a computer system or a processor, such as the processor 84 of FIG. 1A, the processor 134 of FIG. 2, or a separate processor. The processor can then be used to control an operation of the positioner 208. For example, the processor may be configured (e.g., programmed and/or constructed) to control an amount of movement of the patient support (e.g., rotation about axis 324 to thereby tilt the patient support, and/or other types of movement described herein) during a procedure. In some embodiments, the amount of movement of the patient support is prescribed by a treatment plan, which is executed by the processor during a treatment session. The treatment plan may be one that is determined during a diagnostic session, or alternatively, be one that is determined during a treatment session (for example, the treatment plan determined in a diagnostic session may be modified during a treatment session to result in a modified treatment plan).

In some embodiments, the patient support system 200 can further include one or more position/motion sensors for sensing a position/motion of the patient support 201. The sensed position/motion is then transmitted from the sensor(s) to the processor, which determines an actual position of the patient support 201 based on the sensed position/motion received from the sensor(s). In some cases, the processor can be further configured to position the patient support 201 based on the actual position of the patient support 201 (e.g., having a feedback feature).

Also, in any of the embodiments of the patient support system 200/400 described herein, the patient support system 200/400 can further include one or more markings (not shown), which allows the patient support 201/406 to be registered with the radiation system 10 and/or with the device 166. For example, one or both of the radiation system 10 and the device 166 can include an optical sensor for sensing the marking(s) of the patient support system 200/400, thereby allowing a position of the patient support 201 to be determined. The optical sensor can be, for example, a camera or an infrared position sensor. In some embodiments, the optical sensor is coupled to the processor, which receives position signals from the optical sensor. Based on the received position signals, the processor then determines an actual position of the patient support 201.

It should be noted that the patient support system 200/400 can have other configurations in other embodiments. For example, in other embodiments, the patient support system 200 can have the configuration shown in FIG. 13A. The patient support system 200 of FIG. 13A includes the patient support 201, a patient positioner 208, a first base portion 300, and a second base portion 302 that is rotatably coupled to the first base portion 300. In the illustrated embodiments, the first base portion 300 is coupled (e.g., fixedly secured, or detachably secured) to a platform 262, which is rotatably secured to a floor (or a platform). The platform 262 can rotate about a vertical axis 350 in the directions shown by the double-headed arrow 360a. The second base portion 302 is rotatably coupled to the first base portion 301 such that the second base portion 302 is rotatable about vertical axis 352 in the directions shown by the arrow 360b. In other embodiments, first base portion 300 and the platform 262 can be implemented as a single unit or structure.

The positioner 208 includes a first arm 366 rotatably secured to the second base portion 302 such that the first arm 366 is rotatable relative to the second base portion

1. A patient support system, comprising: a plurality of support portions arranged in a matrix to thereby form a support surface, at least one of the support portions is moveable relative to another of the support portions, wherein one of the plurality of support portions has a support surface and is rotatable about an axis that is substantially vertical; and an additional support portion, wherein the additional support portion is either rotatable relative to the one of the plurality of support portions, or translatable relative to the one of the plurality of support portions in a direction that forms an angle with a normal of the support surface.

2. The patient support system of claim 1, further comprising a positioner for positioning the at least one of the support portions.

3. The patient support system of claim 1, wherein the matrix comprises rows and columns.

4. The patient support system of claim 1, wherein the support surface has a size sufficient to support an entire body of a patient.

5. The patient support system of claim 1, wherein the support surface is a part of a support selected from the group consisting of a head support, an arm support, an upper body support, a mid-body support, a lower body support, a thigh support, and a leg support.

6. The patient support system of claim 1, wherein the support surface is a portion of a patient support, the patient support system further comprising a positioning system for positioning the patient support.

7. The patient support system of claim 1, wherein the positioning system comprises a first base portion that is rotatable about a first vertical axis, and a second base portion that is rotatable relative to the first base portion about a second vertical axis.

8. A patient support system, comprising: a plurality of support portions arranged in a matrix to thereby form a support surface, at least one of the support portions is moveable relative to another of the support portions, wherein one or more of the plurality of support portions is rotatable about an axis that is substantially vertical; wherein the positioning system comprises a first base portion that is rotatable about a first vertical axis, and a second base portion that is rotatable relative to the first base portion about a second vertical axis; and wherein the positioning system further comprises a first arm rotatably coupled to the second base portion, and a second arm rotatably coupled to the first arm, the patient support being rotatably coupled to the second arm.

9. The patient support system of claim 8, wherein the patient support is slidable relative to the second arm.

10. The patient support system of claim 8, wherein the patient support is tiltable about a longitudinal axis of the patient support.

11. A patient support system, comprising: a patient support; and a positioning system for positioning the patient support, wherein the positioning system is capable of placing the patient support such that a point on the patient support is at a location, and rotating the patient support about a vertical axis that intersects the point, wherein the positioning system includes a first arm and a second arm rotatably coupled to the first arm, and the patient support is rotatably coupled to the second arm; wherein the positioning system further comprises a first base portion that is rotatable about a first vertical axis, and a second base portion coupled to the first base portion, the second base portion being rotatable relative to the first base portion about a second vertical axis, the second arm coupled to the second base portion.

12. A patient support system, comprising: a first base portion rotatable about a first vertical axis; a second base portion rotatably coupled to the first base portion such that the second base portion is rotatable relative to the first base portion about a second vertical axis; a first arm coupled to the second base portion; a second arm rotatably coupled to the first arm; and a patient support rotatably coupled to the second arm.

13. The patient support system of claim 12, wherein the patient support is translatable in a direction that is parallel to a longitudinal axis of the patient support.

14. The patient support system of claim 12, wherein the patient support is translatable in a direction that forms an angle relative to a longitudinal axis of the patient support.

15. The patient support system of claim 12, wherein an elevation of the patient support is adjustable via movements of the first and second arms.

16. The patient support system of claim 12, wherein the patient support has a first support portion and a second support portion that is moveable relative to the first support portion.

17. The patient support system of claim 16, wherein the first support portion is selected from the group consisting of a head support, an arm support, an upper body support, a mid-body support, a lower body support, a thigh support, and a leg support.

18. The patient support system of claim 17, wherein the first support portion and the second support portion are parts of a matrix that form a support surface.

19. A patient support system, comprising: a first support portion having a support surface; and a second support portion that is either rotatable relative to the first support portion, or translatable relative to the first support portion in a direction that forms an angle with a normal of the support surface; wherein the second support portion is rotatable about a substantially vertical axis, and each of the first and second support portions is selected from the group consisting of a head support, an arm support, an upper body support, a mid-body support, a lower body support, a thigh support, and a leg support.

20. The patient support system of claim 19, further comprising a positioner for translating the first and the second support portions as a unit.

21. The patient support system of claim 19, further comprising a positioner for rotating the first and the second support portions as a unit.