Device for cushioning of compression surfaces

摘要

According to the present invention, improved methods and apparatus are provided for providing cushioning and other ergonomic surfaces on devices requiring the patient or tissue to be compressed, such as radiography machines, fluoroscopy units, mammography units and the like. In particular a radiolucent pad element is provided for releasable attachment to at least one surface of a compression device to be used under x-ray, for example, during mammography. The pad element of the present invention can be disposable or constructed to be reusable and in some cases may be applied directly to the patient's breast. Furthermore, a cushioned paddle is provided wherein the compression paddle and the cushion can be separately or integrally formed.

主权项

1. A device for attachment to a compression surface of a compression device of an imaging unit, said device comprising:
a radiolucent comfort device having a first surface and a second surface, the comfort device comprising material producing no significant visual artifact on an x-ray image while in use and providing conformance to tissue to reduce propensity for the material to create air pockets or folds; and means for releasably attaching the first surface of the comfort device to the compression surface.