Device for cushioning of compression surfaces
US6577702B1 · kind B1 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Jul 20, 2000 |
| Grant date | Jun 10, 2003 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Aug 4, 2020 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC A)Human Necessities
- CPC primaryA61B6/4423
- WIPO fieldMedical technology
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
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.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.