Abstract:
A draping provides at least partial and preferably complete coverage of MRI coils, an MRI table and an MRI support system thereby protecting a patient and the equipment. Draping notch fold down flaps may be pushed into shaped apertures of an MRI apparatus by the patient&#39;s breast due to the design of the draping. This offers a barrier between the patient and the equipment pad providing the patient with warmth, comfort and protection from infectious diseases such as Methicillin-resistant staphylococcus aureus (MRSA). The draping reduces the clean up and improves the procedure turnaround time for the technologist.

Description:
RELATED APPLICATIONS 
       [0001]    This application claims priority as a continuation-in-part application of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/217,351, filed on Jul. 3, 2008, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. 
     
    
     FIELD OF THE INVENTION 
       [0002]    This invention relates generally to the field of Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) and more specifically to a process and apparatus for draping breast MRI imaging coils. 
       BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
       [0003]    Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR) was first developed in 1946 when two separate professors made the first successful nuclear magnetic resonance experiment to study chemical compounds. They were awarded the Nobel Prize of Physics in 1952. NMR is based on a physics phenomenon discovered in the 1930&#39;s, called nuclear magnetic resonance in which magnetic fields and radio waves cause atoms to give off tiny radio signals. 
         [0004]    Paul Lauterbur, a professor of chemistry at the State University of New York, moved NMR from science to imaging by developing the second dimension of spatial orientation from the single dimension of NMR spectroscopy. The imaging industry labeled the technology Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) in the mid 1980&#39;s. Peter Mansfield of Nottingham, England further developed this concept by utilizing gradients in the mathematics field. He showed how the signals may be mathematically analyzed providing a way to conduct a consistent technique. In 1970, Raymond Damadian discovered the basis for using MRI as a tool for medical diagnosis. He found that different kinds of animal tissue emitted response signals that lasted longer than non-cancerous tissue. Two years later he filed for a patent for an “Apparatus and Method for Detecting Cancer in Tissue”. The patent was granted in 1974 and was the world&#39;s first patent issued in the field of MRI. In 1977 Dr. Damadian had constructed the first whole body MRI scanner. In 1983 the first “human” MRI scanner was installed in Europe and in 2002 approximately 22,000 MRI systems were in use worldwide performing over 60 million MRI examinations. 
         [0005]    Since water constitutes about two thirds of the human body, hydrogen proton imaging with MRI is a logical use of the technology. The differences in water content among tissues and organs are easily differentiated by MRI. When the body is exposed to a strong magnetic field, the nuclei of the hydrogen atoms are directed into “order”. When submitted to pulses of radio waves, the energy content of the nuclei changes. After an RF pulse, a resonance wave is emitted as the nuclei return to their previous state. The small differences in the oscillations of the nuclei are detected. This results in a very detailed image of tissues and organs in the investigated area of the body. 
         [0006]    As MRI imaging technology steadily improved and techniques such as fat suppression were developed, breast imaging became feasible. In the early 1990&#39;s physicians began experimenting with breast imaging to see if breast cancer could be detected. MRI has proven to be a very useful modality for imaging the “dense” breast that regular x-ray has difficulty penetrating thus missing cancers hidden by dense tissue. 
         [0007]    In the mid 1990s, a dedicated breast coil was developed that allowed the breast to be suspended with a patient in the prone position. In 2007 a very large study in the Lancet 2007; 370:485-92 “MRI for diagnosis of pure ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS): a prospective observational study” determined that out of 7319 women who received MRI in addition to mammography over a 5 year period, breast MRI detected high grade DCIS 100% of the time compared to a 48% detection rate for mammography. 
         [0008]    Due to the increase in breast MRI procedures and biopsies, a need for comfort and cleanliness has been noted by both the patients and MRI technologists. A primary concern has been to provide a protective covering of the MRI equipment, including the breast coil. In this regard, technologists have utilized sheets and pillowcases in an attempt to cover the equipment. However, the breast coil design makes it difficult to adequately protect the equipment and patient from fluids. For example, the use of sheets fails to protect the equipment padding which may be porous and retains body dirt, sweat, and bodily fluids. Cleaning is also an issue. 
       SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
       [0009]    It has been recognized that the devices (e.g. sheets and pillowcases) currently used for covering MRI equipment are inadequate for a number of reasons. For instance, after folding a sheet or pillowcase in an attempt to cover the coils of an MRI apparatus for the patients and employees, the sheet or pillowcase often does not stay in the same place if the patient or technologist repositions a breast. Additionally, there is no patient protection available for inside and over the outside of the breast MRI coils if the manufacturer&#39;s coil padding is removed for breast access (e.g. for small-breasted women). In this regard, the present inventor has recognized that a draping may be necessary as the patient may have open wounds, skin diseases, etc. that may be passed to the next patient if complete sterilization of the padding or the equipment does not occur. A complete sterilization process often does not occur because it is a costly and time-consuming process. 
         [0010]    Accordingly, the primary object of the invention is to provide a draping for MRI apparatuses that incorporate breast coils to protect the patient and equipment from any bodily contaminants such as sweat, dirt, bodily fluids or infectious disease. 
         [0011]    Another object of the present invention is to reduce contact between a patient and an MRI apparatus. 
         [0012]    A further object of the invention is to increase patient comfort when the patient is using an MRI apparatus. 
         [0013]    Another object of the invention is to reduce the quantity of cleanup and improve an MRI procedure turnaround for MRI technologists. 
         [0014]    In addressing one or more of the above objectives and in accordance with one embodiment of the invention, there is disclosed a draping for a Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) apparatus. The MRI apparatus used with the draping may include at least one breast coil for imaging of a patient&#39;s breast and typically two breast coils for imaging two patient breasts. The draping broadly includes a barrier and an opening for receiving a patient&#39;s breast that extends through a portion of the barrier. 
         [0015]    In one aspect, the barrier may be positionable to locate the opening over an aperture in the MRI apparatus, the aperture housing or otherwise containing a breast coil. Such aperture may be of any appropriate shape such as round, rectangular, or other shapes and configurations. The aperture may extend through a patient interface surface and into a housing of the MRI apparatus. The barrier may also be extendable away from the opening and may be positionable over a portion of the MRI apparatus such as a patient interface surface. In this regard, the barrier may be positionable between at least a portion of the patient interface surface and a portion of a patient. The barrier may be constructed of at least one pliable and/or absorbent material, and may be disposable and/or reusable. 
         [0016]    In another aspect, a periphery of the barrier may be sized to encompass a periphery of the patient interface surface of the MRI apparatus. Moreover, a periphery or other portion of the barrier may include a securing member such as elastic, string or hook and loop that may allow the barrier to secure around and conform to the general shape of the MRI apparatus after the periphery of the barrier has encompassed the periphery of the patient interface surface. In one embodiment, at least a portion of the periphery of the patient interface surface may be defined by at least one ledge or other protruding device that may allow the draping to be removably attached to the MRI apparatus. As such and as will be described in more detail below, a single draping may be advantageously utilized in conjunction with a plurality of MRI apparatuses, each of the MRI apparatuses having housings, patient interface surfaces, apertures and/or the like of various sizes and dimensions. 
         [0017]    In another aspect, the opening may have a periphery that may be sized to be encompassed by a periphery of the aperture. As such, the opening may be sized such that the opening is at least substantially aligned over or encompassed by the aperture of the MRI apparatus and thus primed for entry of a patient&#39;s breast when the barrier is positioned over the patient interface surface. In one embodiment, the opening may be at least partially defined by at least notch; in another embodiment, the opening may alternatively or additionally be defined by at least one hole. 
         [0018]    In one variation, the opening may include a hole and a notch and the notch may extend away from the hole. Another variation contemplates that the opening may be at least partially defined by a plurality of notches each of which may intersect each other and/or emanate from a hole. Such arrangements may facilitate introduction of the patient&#39;s breast through the barrier and ultimately into the aperture in the MRI apparatus. More specifically, the use of a plurality of notches effectively increases the adjustability of the opening to accommodate breasts of various sizes while providing additional and varying degrees of protection and comfort for a patient. The hole may be circular, rectangular or even other shapes and of various dimensions to accommodate various types of MRI apparatuses and various sizes of breasts. Other embodiments contemplate that the draping may further include a second opening for accepting or receiving a breast. During positioning of the barrier over the MRI apparatus, the openings may be positioned over the apertures in the MRI apparatus and a technician may direct a patient to insert or position his or her breasts through the openings and the MRI apparatus apertures for an imaging procedure. 
         [0019]    A further aspect contemplates that the draping may include at least a first flap and a second flap each being disposed adjacent the opening. In this regard, the flaps and the barrier may form an integral or otherwise continuous surface or draping extending from a breast coil or aperture to the patient interface surface of the MRI apparatus. The first and second flaps may be positionable between at least a portion of the MRI apparatus (e.g. breast coil) and a portion of a patient&#39;s breast that is positioned through the opening and within the aperture of the MRI apparatus. For instance, the aperture in the MRI apparatus may be surrounded by a sidewall such that the first and second flaps may be positionable between the sidewall and the portion of the patient&#39;s breast positioned through the opening and within the aperture. As such, the flaps and the barrier may advantageously reduce or otherwise prevent the transfer of germs, bacteria, viruses and the like between a patient undergoing an MRI procedure and various portions of the MRI apparatus. The flaps may be positioned into the MRI apparatus apertures prior to and/or during introduction of the patient&#39;s breast through the opening and into the aperture. 
         [0020]    In one variation, each flap may be at least partially defined by adjacent pairs of notches of a plurality of notches, whereby each notch may emanate from a hole of the opening. For instance, a first notch and a second notch of the plurality of notches may partially define the first flap, and the second notch and a third notch of the plurality of notches may partially define the second flap. Moreover, the draping may include at least a third flap and a fourth flap each being disposed adjacent the opening. The third notch and a fourth notch of the plurality of notches may partially define the third flap, and the fourth notch and the first notch may partially define the fourth flap. Each flap may also be at least partially defined by more than adjacent pairs of notches. Additional flaps and notches may be included with the draping to provide additional degrees of patient protection, comfort, and the like. In one particular arrangement, the opening may include a rectangular hole, and a notch may emanate from each corner of the rectangular hole such that a flap may be adjacent each side of the rectangular hole. In another arrangement, the first flap may be generally opposed to the second flap. As such, protection of a patient&#39;s breast during an MRI procedure may be provided because both sides of the breast may be covered or shielded by the first and second flaps. 
         [0021]    In an even further aspect, the draping may be usable on a plurality of different MRI apparatuses, each of the different MRI apparatuses including a patient interface surface and an aperture extending through the patient interface surface. The barrier may be positionable both to locate the opening over the aperture of each of the different MRI apparatuses, and between at least a portion of the patient interface surface of each of the different MRI apparatuses and a portion of the patient. 
         [0022]    For instance, a periphery of the opening may be sized to be encompassed by a periphery of the aperture of each of the different MRI apparatuses. In another variation, the periphery of the barrier may be sized to encompass a periphery of the patient interface surface of each of the different MRI apparatuses. In this regard, a single draping may advantageously be used in conjunction with a number of MRI apparatuses regardless of the size, diameter, etc. of the patient interface surface or aperture of the MRI apparatuses. Some variations also contemplate that at least one securing member may be positionable to removably secure the barrier to a periphery of the patient interface surface of each of the different MRI apparatuses. Moreover, at least a portion of the periphery of the patient interface surface of each of the different MRI apparatuses may be defined by at least one ledge, and such ledge may accept or otherwise interact with the securing member to aid in removable securing the barrier to the MRI apparatus. 
         [0023]    Some embodiments of the present invention provide various methodologies for using a draping with an MRI apparatus and/or constructing such a draping for instance. In one characterization, a method for reducing contact between a portion of a patient (e.g. breast) and a portion of a Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) apparatus is provided, the MRI apparatus including a patient interface surface and an aperture extending through the patient interface surface. In some arrangements, the MRI apparatus may include a coil associated with or located within the aperture. Moreover, the MRI apparatus may have one or more pads, cushions, sleeves and/or strips of any appropriate shape, size and materials associated therewith that is or are situated or positionable within the aperture and/or on top of the patient interface surface. In some embodiments, the pads, cushions, etc. may be constructed of a flexible material. 
         [0024]    Broadly, the method includes positioning a barrier over at least a portion of the patient interface surface, the barrier comprising at least one opening, and locating the opening over the aperture of the MRI apparatus. According to one aspect, the positioning step may include positioning the barrier over at least a portion of one or more of the aforementioned pads, cushions, sleeves and/or strips associated with the MRI apparatus. As such, a barrier or sheath may be created to prevent or otherwise reduce cross-contamination between a patient and portions of the patient interface surface, the pads, cushions, sleeves or strips, and/or other surfaces of the MRI apparatus and the barrier may also function as a cushion for a patient. 
         [0025]    According to another aspect, the positioning step may further include arranging a periphery of the barrier to encompass a periphery of the MRI apparatus, or even a periphery of the patient interface surface. In one variation or as an additional aspect, the barrier may be removably secured to the MRI apparatus. For instance, the barrier may be secured to the patient interface surface of the MRI apparatus, and additionally, may be removable secured to a ledge associated with the patient interface surface. Further, the securing step may include manipulating at least one securing member interconnected to the barrier to detachably connect the barrier to the patient interface surface to restrict relative movement between the barrier and the MRI apparatus. Such at least one securing member may include at least one of a group including elastic, hook and loop, string, tape, snaps, ribbons, sticky glue, buttons, ties and tab hooks. 
         [0026]    According to a further aspect, the locating step may further include aligning the barrier opening and the aperture of the MRI apparatus. Such an alignment step facilitates subsequent disposition or insertion of a breast through the barrier opening and into the aperture of the MRI apparatus. In one variation, such aspect may include arranging a periphery of the opening to be encompassed by a periphery of the aperture and in another variation, such aspect may include arranging a center axis of each of the opening and the aperture of the MRI apparatus to be collinear with each other. 
         [0027]    In accordance with yet another aspect, the barrier may include at least one flap which may be adjacent the opening and may be positionable through the aperture of the MRI apparatus. For example, the barrier may have at least two flaps that are equidistantly spaced around the center axis of the barrier opening. Such additional flaps advantageously increase the relative degree of protection or reduction of cross-contamination in addition to patient comfort. 
         [0028]    As another example, the locating step may further comprise disposing at least one flap to be within a portion of the aperture of the MRI apparatus and adjacent the coil. Disposition of at least one flap in such a location may further reduce or otherwise prevent cross-contamination (e.g. germs, disease) between a portion of the coil or other portion of the aperture and another object or a portion of the patient. 
         [0029]    In one variation, the disposing step further may comprise advancing the flap into the portion of the aperture of the MRI apparatus. Such advancing step may include locating a patient breast through the barrier opening and aperture of the MRI apparatus, wherein the at least one flap may be interposed between at least a portion of the coil and at least a portion of the patient breast. The patient may be directed to locate the patient breast through the barrier opening. Such advancing step may also include pushing the flap into the portion of the aperture of the MRI apparatus, and the pushing may comprise at least one of a group comprising: folding, creasing, bending and flexing the flap. For instance, after the barrier opening is located over the aperture of the MRI apparatus, a hospital technician or other employee may fold or push the flap into the MRI apparatus aperture, and then the patient&#39;s breast may be disposed within the opening and the aperture. 
         [0030]    In another variation, the disposing step may comprise maneuvering the flap at least partially away from the barrier opening, and arranging the flap to be within the portion of the aperture of the MRI apparatus. As such, the flap may essentially be pre-positioned in a protruding orientation from the barrier opening before the flap is placed into the MRI apparatus aperture. The maneuvering step may include at least one of a group comprising folding, creasing, bending and flexing. Moreover, the arranging step may comprise placing the flap into the portion of the aperture of the MRI apparatus, and in some approaches, the placing step may comprise at least one of a group comprising pushing and inserting the flap. For instance, after the flap has been maneuvered, the flap may be pushed, inserted or otherwise placed into the MRI apparatus aperture by a hospital technician, the patient, a machine, etc. 
         [0031]    In even another variation after the disposing step, the method may include removing the barrier from the patient interface surface, and discarding the barrier. In some approaches, the patient&#39;s breast may be imaged using the MRI apparatus before the barrier is removed from the patient interface surface. Removing the barrier may further inhibits cross-contamination between the barrier and other surfaces such as the MRI apparatus and/or the patient. 
         [0032]    In even another aspect, the method may include before the positioning step removing at least one member associated with a portion of the patient interface surface. Removing such a member facilitates the imaging of small-breasted patients. In one approach, the member being removed comprises a layer of flexible material, and such layer may be one of a group of padding and cushioning. In another approach, the member being removed may be adjacent the aperture of the MRI apparatus. 
         [0033]    In another aspect, a method for reducing contact between a patient and a portion of a plurality of MRI apparatuses is provided, each of the MRI apparatuses including a patient interface surface and an aperture extending through the patient interface surface. In one arrangement, a plurality of the patient interface surfaces may be of a different size and a plurality of the apertures may be of a different size. The method broadly includes positioning a barrier over at least a portion of the patient interface surface of one of the MRI apparatuses without regard to the size of the patient interface surface, the barrier comprising at least one opening, and locating the opening over the aperture of the one of the MRI apparatuses without regard to the size of the aperture. 
         [0034]    In one variation, the positioning step may further comprise arranging a periphery of the barrier to encompass a periphery of the patient interface surface of the one of the MRI apparatuses. In another variation, the locating step may further comprise arranging a periphery of the opening to be encompassed by a periphery of the aperture of the one of the MRI apparatuses. Other variations envision that the locating step may further comprise arranging a periphery of the opening to be encompassed by a periphery of the aperture of the one of the MRI apparatuses, and/or the method may further include, securing the barrier to the one of the MRI apparatuses. 
         [0035]    In another aspect, a method may be provided for forming or manufacturing a draping that may be provided for reducing contact between a patient breast and a portion of a Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) apparatus (e.g. patient interface surface, breast coil). It will be appreciated that other methods of forming a draping are contemplated. The method may include forming a pliable barrier of one or more layers. The one or more layers may be absorbent and may reduce leakage or the transfer of fluids, germs and disease from one side of the barrier to the other side of the barrier. Additionally, a securing member in the form of elastic, hook and loop, and the like may be appropriately secured about a periphery or other portion of the barrier to secure the barrier to a device, such as an MRI apparatus. 
         [0036]    Either before or after the securing member is secured to the barrier, one or more padding members may be bonded, laminated or otherwise connected to one or more sides of the barrier. The padding member may be constructed of one or more types of materials such as felt, cotton, gelatinous materials and the like, and may be absorbent or non-absorbent. The method may further include appropriately forming or creating an opening through the barrier and the one or more padding members. In one embodiment, the opening may be formed by appropriately forming or creating one or more slits, slots or notches, and such slits, slots or notches may partially define at least one flap that may be positionable within an aperture of an MRI apparatus. In other embodiments, the opening may be formed by additionally or alternatively forming or creating a hole of any appropriately shape (e.g. circular, rectangular) that may also partially define at least one flap positionable within the aperture of the MRI apparatus. 
         [0037]    It will be appreciated that the various steps, aspects and variations of the embodiments of the drapings and the methods disclosed herein may be utilized by other embodiments of the drapings and methods. Other objects and advantages of the present invention will become apparent from the following descriptions, taken in connection with the accompanying drawings, wherein, by way of illustration and example, an embodiment of the present invention is disclosed. 
     
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
         [0038]    The drawings constitute a part of this specification and include exemplary embodiments to the invention, which may be embodied in various forms. It is to be understood that in some instances various aspects of the invention may be shown exaggerated or enlarged to facilitate an understanding of the invention. 
           [0039]      FIG. 1  illustrates a perspective view of an MRI apparatus including at least one aperture having a coil therein for the imaging of a breast of a patient, and including a draping positioned over the MRI apparatus. 
           [0040]      FIG. 2  illustrates a perspective view of an MRI system, and including the MRI apparatus and draping of  FIG. 1 . 
           [0041]      FIG. 3  illustrates a top view of a draping for an MRI apparatus. 
           [0042]      FIG. 4  illustrates a cross-sectional view through the line  4 - 4  of  FIG. 1  and including a draping disposed over the MRI apparatus and a patient breast disposed within the aperture of the MRI apparatus. 
           [0043]      FIG. 5  illustrates a bottom view of the draping of  FIG. 3 . 
           [0044]      FIG. 6  illustrates another bottom view of the draping of  FIG. 3 . 
           [0045]      FIG. 7  illustrates a top view of another draping for an MRI apparatus. 
           [0046]      FIG. 8  illustrates a bottom view of the draping of  FIG. 7 . 
           [0047]      FIG. 9  illustrates a top view of another draping for an MRI apparatus. 
           [0048]      FIG. 10  is a flowchart illustrating a method of positioning a barrier over a patient interface surface of an MRI apparatus. 
       
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
       [0049]      FIG. 1  illustrates a Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) apparatus  2  that may be used as part of an MRI system for imaging the breast of a patient. The MRI apparatus  2  may include a housing  6  appropriately disposed on a table  8 , the table  8  adapted to be translatable into and out of the bore of a primary magnet as will be later described. An upper portion of the housing  6  may have a patient interface surface (not shown) that may be adapted to support the body of the patient. A portion of the patient interface surface and/or other portion of the housing  6  may include at least one ledge, hook or the like at any appropriate location or locations for securing a device to the MRI apparatus. For instance, a periphery of the patient interface surface may include a ledge or other protruding structure extending therefrom for removably attaching to a draping as will be described below. 
         [0050]    A pair of shaped apertures  14  (only one being shown) may extend through the patient interface surface of the housing  6 , each aperture  14  for pendulantly receiving a patient&#39;s breast during MR imaging of the breasts. Each aperture  14  has a coil (e.g. breast coil, not shown) associated therewith that produces RF signals that the MRI system uses to generate an image of the respective breast of the patient. Further, each aperture  14  may have a periphery  18  (illustrated in  FIG. 4 ) and a sidewall  22  extending downward from the periphery  18  to a location within the housing  6 . The apertures  14  may be circular, rectangular, and/or of other shapes and/or sizes. 
         [0051]    Each coil may be associated with or otherwise appropriately mounted to any portion of the sidewall of other portions of the MRI apparatus  2 , and may include any appropriate number of windings depending upon imaging requirements. An exemplary draping  100  according to one embodiment may be positioned over the MRI apparatus  2  and will be described in more detail below. While one type of MRI apparatus  2  has been shown, it will be appreciated that the embodiments of the draping  100  are applicable to various other types of such apparatuses. 
         [0052]    An MRI system  30  is illustrated in  FIG. 2 , and may broadly include a housing  34  and the MRI apparatus  2  of  FIG. 1 . The housing  34  includes a primary magnet (not shown) and a central bore  38  that may accept or receive the MRI apparatus  2  for an MRI procedure of a patient. As such, the MRI apparatus  2  may be appropriately translatable or positionable into and/or out of the central bore  38  by way of sliding tracks, casters, and the like. After the primary magnet aligns the protons in the hydrogen atoms in a particular portion of a patient&#39;s body, the MRI apparatus  2  generates and directs RF signals to the body portion which momentarily knock the hydrogen atom protons out of alignment. Upon realignment after a RF signal pulse, the protons themselves emit RF signals which may be analyzed to detect specific body tissues. Operation of the MRI system  30  may be controlled from an operator console or other appropriate device (not shown). 
         [0053]      FIG. 3  illustrates an exemplary draping  100  for an MRI apparatus including a breast coil, such as the MRI apparatus  2  illustrated in  FIG. 1 . The draping  100  may broadly include a barrier  104  having front and back surfaces  108 ,  112 . The barrier  104  may be of shape that allows the barrier  104  to conform to the shape of an MRI apparatus; representative shapes include round, rectangular, and the like. Moreover, the barrier  104  serves to reduce or otherwise prevent contact between a patient and various portions of the MRI apparatus  2  that the patient&#39;s body might come into contact with, such as for instance the patient interface surface. As such, the barrier  104  may be constructed of at least one sterile flexible and/or pliable material and may be formed of any number of materials and/or layers such as of paper, cotton, and/or synthetic materials; the barrier may also be disposable (e.g. disposed of after a single MRI procedure or after use by an individual patient) or reusable (e.g. disposed of after multiple MRI procedures or used by an individual patient or used by multiple patients). In one embodiment, the barrier  104  may be constructed of a non-woven fabric. For instance, the barrier  104  may be constructed of a spunbond/meltblown/spunbond (SMS) non-woven fabric that may include polymers such as polypropylene and/or polyethylene. SMS materials may provide advantageous features such bacteria impermeability, fluid penetration resistance, softness and comfort, and the like. In other embodiments, the barrier  104  may also include a non-slip or non-skid surface or material to prevent or otherwise reduce undesired slipping or movement of the drape portion during a surgical/interventional procedure. Even further embodiments contemplate that the barrier  104  may contain fragrance or aromatherapy types of products such as oils or lotions to mask unpleasant odors in addition to improving the psychological and/or physical well-being of the patient. 
         [0054]    The barrier  104  additionally includes a periphery  116  that may be appropriately secured around a portion of the MRI apparatus  2 . The periphery  116  may define a border between the front and back surfaces  108 ,  112  and may conform to the overall shape of the barrier  104 . At least one securing member (not shown) may be associated with the periphery  116  or other portion of the barrier  104 . The securing member may provide a degree of adjustability for the barrier  104  and assist in securing the barrier  104  to a portion of the MRI apparatus  2  such as the housing  6  or patient interface surface. Moreover, the periphery  116  may be sized to encompass a periphery of the patient interface surface of each of a plurality of MRI apparatuses  2 , at least some of the MRI apparatuses  2  having different sized housings  6 , patient interface surfaces, and the like. In this regard, a single draping  100  may be used in conjunction with a number of MRI apparatuses regardless of the size, diameter, etc. of the housing  6  and patient interface surface of the MRI apparatuses  2 . More specifically, the securing member may advantageously removably secure the draping  100  to the housing  6  or patient interface surface of each of a number of various sized MRI apparatuses  2 . 
         [0055]    The securing member may comprise any device that may secure the barrier  104  around a portion of the MRI apparatus. In some embodiments, the securing member may comprise at least one of elastic, hook and loop fasteners, string, tape, buttons, snaps, ribbons, ties, adhesives, tabs, hooking devices, sticky glue, belt interlocking devices, and other tightening and adjusting devices that allow the barrier to conform to the design of the MRI apparatus  2 . However, other types of securing members are envisioned. In an exemplary embodiment, the elastic used in association with the draping  100  may allow the barrier  104  to be stretched for adjustment which results in complete coverage and alignment to the shape of the MRI apparatus  2 . 
         [0056]    The barrier  104  may also include features (not shown) that allow the barrier  104  to provide adjustable tension in all directions about an MRI apparatus  2 . For instance, such features may include a cut out portion, slit, torn or notch in the barrier  104  to accommodate any fastening to another piece or portion of the equipment set-up. In one embodiment, such features are associated with the periphery  116 ; however, the features may be associated with other portions of the periphery  116 . It should be appreciated that the barrier  104  may be adapted to cover other types of MRI apparatuses. 
         [0057]    With continued reference to  FIG. 3 , the barrier  104  additionally includes at least one opening  120  for pendulantly receiving a portion of a patient, such as a breast. As will be described below, the barrier  104  may be positionable over the MRI apparatus  2  such that the opening  120  may be locatable over the aperture  14  in the MRI apparatus  2 . As such, the barrier aligns and fits the shapes of the MRI apparatus  2 . The patient and/or technologist may then position the breast through the opening  120  and into the MRI apparatus aperture  14  for an imaging procedure. While a pair of openings  120  is illustrated in  FIG. 2 , only one will be described. In other embodiments, the barrier may include more or less than a pair of openings  120 . 
         [0058]    The opening  120  is subject to a number of characterizations. One is that the opening  120  may be partially defined by at least one hole  124  having a periphery  128 . The hole  124  may be sized to pendulantly accept a patient&#39;s breast, and as such, may be of a generally circular shape so as to conform to a cross-section of a patient&#39;s breast taken along a plane that is generally parallel to the patient&#39;s chest. As will be later described, the diameter of the hole  124  may be less than the diameter of the base of a typical breast. In one embodiment, the hole may be about 4 inches in diameter, and more preferably about 3¼ inches in diameter. However, in other embodiments the hole  124  may be of other shapes such as oval, rectangular, and the like, and may have diameters greater than or less than the diameter of the base of a patient&#39;s breast. 
         [0059]    The shape of the hole  124  may at least closely match the shape of an MRI apparatus aperture  14 . In this regard, the hole  124  and the aperture  14  may have equivalent or substantially equivalent diameters if circular or lengths and widths if rectangular, for instance. In other embodiments, the diameter of the hole  124  of the opening  120  may of a size that allows the periphery  128  of the hole  124  of the opening  120  to be encompassed by the periphery  18  of the aperture  14  of a number of MRI apparatuses, at least some of the MRI apparatuses having apertures of different sizes or shapes. As such, a single draping  100  may advantageously be used in conjunction with a number of MRI apparatuses regardless of the size or shape of the aperture  14  of the MRI apparatuses. More specifically, the opening  120  or hole  124  may be sized such that the opening  120  or hole  124  is at least substantially aligned over or encompassed by the aperture  14  of any number of various sized MRI apparatuses and thus primed for entry of a patient&#39;s breast when the barrier is positioned over the patient interface surface. The hole  124  may be cut out of the barrier  104  after production of the barrier  104  or may be formed as part of the production process of the barrier  104 . 
         [0060]    Another characterization of the opening  120  is that it may be partially defined by at least one notch  132  that may be in the form of slits, slots, cuts, and the like. The notch  132  generally intersects the hole  124 , and then extends in a direction away from the hole  124  for a distance. In one embodiment, the notch  132  extends away from the hole  124  for a distance of about 2½ inches, more preferably for about 2 inches and even more preferably for about 1 inch. The notch  132  may increase the area of the opening  120  during introduction of a breast into the opening  120 . In this regard, the notch  132  may increase patient comfort in addition to providing a degree of adjustability to the opening  120  to accommodate breasts and MRI apparatus apertures  14  of various sizes. As illustrated in  FIG. 2 , the opening  120  may be partially defined by at least four notches  132  spaced around the periphery  128  of the hole  124 . While the notches  132  are shown as being substantially equally spaced from each other, other configurations and orientations of notches are within the scope of the embodiment. Also, more or less than four notches  132  can be utilized with barrier  104 . 
         [0061]    At least one flap  136  may be partially disposed between and partially defined by two adjacent notches  132 . The flap  136  may be locatable between at least a portion of the MRI apparatus  2  and a portion of the patient&#39;s breast to protect the patient from germs and infection diseases (e.g. MRSA) in addition to providing the patient with warmth and comfort. For instance, each flap  136  may be locatable between a patient&#39;s breast and a sidewall  22  and/or coil of the MRI apparatus  2 . As shown, the draping  100  may include four flaps  136 , each of the flaps  136  being defined by at least two notches  132 . 
         [0062]    In use, the barrier  104  may initially be positioned over and secured on the MRI apparatus  2  such that the opening  120  may be positionable over an MRI apparatus aperture  14 . Thereafter, introduction or positioning of a patient&#39;s breast through the opening  120  may cause each flap  136  to move in a direction towards and into the MRI apparatus aperture  14  or generally in a direction from the front surface  108  towards the back surface  112  of the barrier  104  until each flap  136  is positioned between a portion of the MRI apparatus  2  and a portion of the patient&#39;s breast. Once so positioned, the patient&#39;s breast may be generally inhibited from direct contact with a portion of the MRI apparatus  2  because of the presence of each flap  136  between the portion of the MRI apparatus  2  and the breast. Additional flaps may be created in the barrier  104  to create a desired degree of comfort, protection and the like. 
         [0063]    Although the flaps  136  have been described as being disposed into the MRI apparatus aperture  14  by the introduction or positioning of the breast into the opening  124  and aperture  14 , other methods of positioning each flap  136  between a portion of the breast and a portion of the MRI apparatus  2  are contemplated. For instance and as will be described below, the flaps may be pre-positioned or otherwise appropriately disposed downward or in a direction away from the opening  124  by hospital technicians and the like before the breast is positioned through the opening  124  and aperture  14 . In such embodiments, introduction of the patient&#39;s breast may only minimally urge the flaps toward the MRI machine breast coil aperture or may not urge such flaps toward the aperture at all. 
         [0064]      FIG. 4  is a cross-sectional view along the line  4 - 4  of  FIG. 1 , but additionally with a draping  100  appropriately positioned over the MRI apparatus  2  and a breast  200  located within the aperture  14 . As may be seen, the draping  100  may provide patient relief for pressure points created between the periphery  18  of the aperture  14  and the breast  200  of the patient. Moreover, because each flap  136  may be generally located between a portion of the MRI apparatus  2  (e.g. sidewall  22  and/or coil) and the patient breast  200 , disease and other contaminants are prevented or at least inhibited from proceeding between the MRI apparatus  2  and the patient breast  200 . Each flap  136  may be of a length that such that it extends substantially to a base  26  of the aperture  14  as is illustrated in  FIG. 4 . In other embodiments, each of one or more of the flaps  136  may be of a shorter length such that it extends just past periphery  18 , or even to lengths between just past the periphery  18  and the length as shown in  FIG. 4 . In even further embodiments, each of one or more of the flaps  136  may be of a length such that it rests on and covers a portion of the base  26  of the aperture  14 . As such, any direct contact between the patient breast  200  and such base  26  may be avoided or at least reduced. Moreover, wicking or other appropriate material may be incorporated with or even comprise one or more of the flaps  136  that may be operable to wick or otherwise draw blood and/or other fluids out of the aperture  14  during a biopsy or other procedure. Numerous other benefits and advantages will be recognized and appreciated with reference to the various embodiments. 
         [0065]      FIGS. 5-6  illustrate bottom views of the draping  100  of  FIG. 3 . The barrier  104  may comprise at least one padding member  140  that may be in the form of an absorbing member and/or cushion. The padding member  140  may serve to absorb or receive liquids and other debris that may be situated or associated with the MRI apparatus  2  and/or the patient. Moreover, the padding member  140  may increase patient comfort and warmth during an MRI procedure in addition to further increasing the protective aspect of the barrier  104 . For instance, smaller sized breasts often cannot be positioned far enough into the breast coil (represented schematically by reference numeral  141  in  FIG. 6 ) for imaging due in part to the thickness of the MRI apparatus manufacturer&#39;s padding or sleeves around and/or adjacent the breast coil and a patient interface surface. Because the manufacturer&#39;s padding may be removed for such procedures, patients may experience an increase in chafing, irritation, and the like, and an overall decrease in comfort. Additionally, the MRI apparatus  2  often includes tabs or other protruding devices used to attach the manufacturer&#39;s padding to the MRI apparatus  2 . The padding member  140  may provide increased comfort and protection for patients in such situations. 
         [0066]    As shown, the padding member  140  may be generally disposed about a portion of each of the openings  120  because such areas of the barrier  104  may experience a larger load from the patient&#39;s body resting on the patient interface surface during the MRI procedure. Further, the padding member  140  may serve to absorb liquids disposed within or near the apertures or other portions of the MRI apparatus  2 . In some embodiments, the padding member  140  may be located over an entirety of the back surface  112  of the barrier  104 . In other embodiments, the padding member  140  may be associated with at least a portion of the front surface  108  either individually or along with at least a portion of the back surface  112 . The padding member  140  may also not even be associated with the barrier  104  if the barrier  104  material already provides sufficient comfort, protection and warmth for the patient. 
         [0067]    The padding member  140  may be in the form of at least one of a layer of felt, gelatinous materials, cottons, fabric and the like. Moreover, the padding member  140  may include a single type of material, or may include different combinations of materials to provide a desired degree of comfort, protection, and warmth for example. In one embodiment, the padding member  140  may be constructed of a pulp based material such as Airlaid®. Airlaid® is a soft, non-woven, highly absorbent and low leakage cellulose-based fabric that may have a web of pulp fibers that may be bonded by any appropriate technique (e.g. latex bonding, thermal bonding, and/or hydrogen bonding). It may absorb more moisture than common cellulose while remaining more tear-proof and dimensionally stable. In other embodiments, the Airlaid® may be bonded or otherwise disposed over a layer of polyethylene. Moreover, the padding member  140  may be appropriately secured to the back surface  112  of the barrier  104  or other portions of the barrier such as the front surface  108 . For instance, the padding member  140  may be secured to the barrier  104  by adhesives, stitching, etc. 
         [0068]      FIGS. 7 and 8  present a variation of the draping  100  of  FIGS. 3-6 . Corresponding components between the two embodiments are identified by a common reference numeral. Those corresponding components that differ in at least some respect are identified by a “single prime” designation in  FIGS. 7 and 8 . The primary difference between the draping  100  of  FIGS. 3-6  and the draping  100 ′ of  FIGS. 7 and 8  is that the draping  100 ′ of  FIGS. 7 and 8  includes openings  120 ′ with at least one rectangularly-shaped hole  124 ′. The rectangularly-shaped hole  124 ′ of the opening  120 ′ of the draping  100 ′ may be used with an MRI apparatus aperture of a similar shape. Matching the shape of the rectangularly-shaped hole  124 ′ of the draping  100 ′ to an MRI apparatus aperture facilitates alignment of the opening  120 ′ over the MRI apparatus aperture when the draping  100 ′ is disposed over the MRI apparatus. However, as previously discussed, the hole  124 ′ of the opening  120 ′ may be sized to be encompassed or enveloped by the aperture  14  of the MRI apparatus  2  so that the draping  100 ′ can be used in conjunction with a plurality of MRI apparatuses  2  of various sizes. Further, use of the draping  100 ′ with at least one rectangularly-shaped hole  124 ′ may provide additional levels of adjustability to accommodate breasts of various sizes. 
         [0069]      FIG. 9  presents yet another variation of the draping  100  of  FIGS. 3-6 . Corresponding components between the two embodiments are identified by a common reference numeral. Those corresponding components that differ in at least some respect are identified by a “double prime” designation in  FIG. 9 . In this embodiment, the draping  100 ″ may include an opening  120 ″ that may be partially defined by a plurality of notches  132 ′, each of the notches  132 ″ intersecting at least one of the other notches  132 ″. As illustrated in  FIG. 9 , the opening  120 ″ may include a pair of intersecting notches  132 ″ in the form of an “X” shape. The notches  132 ″ may partially define the flaps  136 , the flaps  136  being operable to be positioned between a patient&#39;s breast and a portion of the MRI apparatus to provide warmth and comfort and to prevent or otherwise reduce the transmission of germs and other infections between a patient and a portion of the MRI apparatus or other equipment. 
         [0070]    In other embodiments, the opening  120 ″ may include fewer or more than a pair of notches  132 ″ with varying degrees of intersection. For instance, the opening  120 ″ may include a primary notch  132 ″ with a plurality of secondary notches  132 ″ emanating from either side of the primary notch  132 ″ and partially defining or forming the flaps  136 . Moreover, the notches  132 ″ may be of varying lengths and widths. The opening  120 ″ reduces manufacturing steps because of the absence of a hole as in other embodiments. Additionally, the absence of a hole in the opening  120 ″ may provide a tighter or more snug and comfortable feel for a patient during an MRI procedure. Other embodiments of the openings  120 ″ are also contemplated. 
         [0071]      FIG. 10  is a flowchart illustrating one method of use of any of the embodiments of the draping. It will be appreciated that other methods of the use of the draping of the embodiments are contemplated. In an exemplary embodiment,  FIG. 10  depicts a method for reducing contact between a patient breast and a portion of a Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) apparatus, the MRI apparatus including a patient interface surface, an aperture extending through the patient interface surface, and a coil associated with the aperture. 
         [0072]    Initially in step  300 , a barrier may be positioned over the patient interface surface (i.e. patient interface surface of the MRI apparatus  2  of  FIG. 1 ). Either the front or back surface of the barrier may be placed in direct contact with the patient interface surface. The barrier may conform to an overall shape or configuration of the MRI apparatus and as such may be generally circular, rectangular, and the like. Such shapes facilitate the positioning or aligning of the barrier over the MRI apparatus. However, if the barrier is also secured to the MRI apparatus as will be described below, the shape of the barrier need not necessarily conform to the overall shape of the MRI apparatus. 
         [0073]    In some embodiments, the barrier can additionally include a periphery that may be appropriately secured around a portion of the MRI apparatus. At least one securing member may be associated with the periphery or other portion of the barrier. The securing member may provide a degree of adjustability for the barrier and assist in securing the barrier to the patient interface surface. Moreover, the periphery may be sized to encompass a periphery of the patient interface surface of each of a plurality of MRI apparatuses, at least some of the MRI apparatuses having different sized patient interface surfaces. Thus, a single draping or barrier may be used in conjunction with a number of MRI apparatuses regardless of the size, diameter, etc. of the patient interface surface of the MRI apparatuses. More specifically, the securing member may advantageously removably secure the draping or barrier to the patient interface surface of each of a number of various sized MRI apparatuses. 
         [0074]    Thereafter in step  304 , at least one barrier opening may be appropriately located over a breast coil aperture of the MRI apparatus. As previously discussed, the barrier opening allows access to the breast coil aperture for a patient&#39;s breast for a subsequent MRI procedure. While the location of at least one barrier opening has been described, additional barrier openings may be located over additional MRI apparatus apertures for the imaging of additional breasts. In some embodiments, step  304  may include aligning the barrier opening and the aperture of the MRI apparatus which further facilitates introduction of a breast into the MRI apparatus aperture. Aligning the barrier opening and the MRI apparatus aperture may include aligning the perimeters of the barrier opening and the MRI apparatus aperture if both are of a substantially similar size and/or diameter. In other variations, such aligning may comprise arranging a center axis of each of the barrier opening and the aperture of the MRI apparatus to be collinear with each other. In even further variations, the aligning may comprise arranging a periphery of the opening such that it is encompassed or enveloped by the aperture of a number of MRI apparatuses, at least some of which have various sized apertures. In this regard, the draping or barrier can be designed such that the opening is primed for the introduction of a patient breast through the opening and aperture as soon as the barrier is positioned over the patient interface surface. Once the barrier has been positioned over the patient interface surface and a barrier opening has been located over an MRI machine aperture, at least one flap adjacent to the barrier opening may be disposed to be within a portion of the MRI apparatus aperture and adjacent a coil in step  308 . As discussed previously, positioning the flap to be in such a location serves to reduce or prevent cross-contamination of germs and diseases for instance between a portion of a patient (e.g. breast) and a portion of the MRI apparatus (e.g. sidewall of aperture and/or coil). Additional flaps may be so disposed for increased comfort and decreased cross-contamination, and such flaps may be equidistantly spaced around a center axis of the barrier opening. Moreover, such disposition of the flap may be subject to a number of characterizations. One is that disposing the flap to be within the MRI apparatus aperture may include advancing at least a portion of at least one flap into a portion of the MRI apparatus aperture. As such, at least a portion of the flap may generally extend away from the barrier opening. 
         [0075]    In one variation, advancing of the flap into the MRI apparatus aperture may be accomplished by locating a patient breast through the barrier opening and aperture of the MRI apparatus. More specifically, upon introduction of the breast through the barrier opening, the breast may make contact with the flap and generally urge the flap away from the barrier opening such that the flap may be interposed between at least a portion of the aperture sidewall and/or coil and at least a portion of the patient breast. The patient may either position the breast through the opening or else may be directed to do so by for instance a hospital employee (e.g. technician, doctor). Although introduction of the patient breast has been described after the barrier opening has been located over the MRI apparatus aperture, the patient breast may also be introduced into the barrier opening before the barrier opening is located over the MRI apparatus aperture, or even before the barrier has been positioned over the patient interface surface of the MRI apparatus. In such situations, after the breast has been introduced into the barrier opening, the patient may then appropriately position the breast into the MRI apparatus aperture such that the flap may be located between the breast and a portion of the MRI apparatus. 
         [0076]    In another variation, advancing of the flap comprises pushing the flap into the portion of the aperture of the MRI apparatus. For instance, hospital technicians and the like or even the patient may urge or push the flap into the MRI apparatus aperture such that the flap is generally adjacent the coil. Pushing or urging of the flap may position, flex, fold, crease and/or bend the flap. In some embodiments, the flap may generally stay or remain within the MRI apparatus aperture after the pushing or urging of the flap. For instance, hook and loop fasteners may be used on portions of the flap and a portion of the MRI apparatus to detachably secure the flap to the MRI apparatus. After an imaging procedure, the flap may be easily removed or disengaged from the MRI apparatus. In other embodiments, a hospital technician or patient may need to maintain continuous contacts on the flap until after the breast has been introduced through the barrier opening and into the MRI apparatus aperture. 
         [0077]    Another characterization of disposing of at least one flap to be within a portion of the MRI apparatus aperture and adjacent a coil may include maneuvering the flap at least partially away from the barrier opening, and then arranging the flap to be within a portion of the MRI apparatus aperture. For instance, the flap may be “pre-folded” or otherwise configured to protrude or extend away from the barrier opening before the flap has been introduced into the MRI apparatus aperture. As such, a hospital employee or the patient may articulate or push the flap (e.g. by positioning, folding, creasing, bending and/or flexing the flap), and then move the flap into the MRI apparatus aperture. For instance, arranging the flap to be within the MRI apparatus aperture may include placing the flap into the portion of the aperture of the MRI apparatus and adjacent the coil, and the placing may include pushing, inserting, and the like. Maneuvering or otherwise appropriately articulating the flap before introduction into the MRI apparatus aperture may facilitate subsequent introduction of the breast into the MRI apparatus aperture. 
         [0078]    In step  312 , after the patient&#39;s breast has been positioned through the barrier opening and into the aperture such that at least one flap is located between the breast and a portion of the MRI apparatus (e.g. sidewall), the hospital technician or doctor performs an MRI procedure on the pendulant breast. Because the barrier has been positioned over the patient interface surface of the MRI apparatus, direct patient contact with the patient interface surface is inhibited, cross-contamination between the patient and the MRI apparatus may be prevented or at least reduced, and patient comfort may be increased. Further, the flap additionally serves to prevent or reduce direct contact between portions of the MRI apparatus aperture; as such, cross-contamination may be reduced and patient comfort may be increased. Moreover, the barrier and corresponding flap(s) are constructed of a material that does not inhibit the MRI procedure. In step  316 , the barrier may be removed from the patient interface surface and discarded after the imaging procedure. In this regard, the barrier may be disposable or alternatively reusable. 
         [0079]    At any point in the method, the barrier may be appropriately secured to a portion of the MRI apparatus. For instance, at least one securing member interconnected to the barrier may be manipulated so as to detachably connect the barrier to the patient interface surface and restrict relative movement between the barrier and the MRI apparatus. Such securing member may additionally serve to constrain portions of the barrier that may interfere with an imaging procedure and comprise elastics, hook and loop, string, tape, snaps, ribbons, sticky glue, buttons, ties and/or tab hooks. However, other types of appropriate securing members may be utilized with the barrier to restrain movement between the barrier and the MRI apparatus. 
         [0080]    As previously described, MRI apparatuses are often provided with padding or cushioning that may be supplied by the apparatus manufacturer. The padding or cushioning may be positioned adjacent the MRI apparatus apertures because such locations often cause increased patient discomfort due to the creation of pressure points adjacent patient breasts. While meant to enhance patient comfort, such padding or cushioning may interfere with the imaging of small-breasted patients because such breasts cannot hang or be appropriately introduced far enough into the MRI apparatus aperture to allow for an effective imaging procedure. In this regard, the method may additionally comprise (preferably before the positioning step) removing at least one member associated with a portion of the patient interface surface to allow for effective imaging of small-breasted patients. The removed member may include a layer of flexible material such as the padding and/or cushioning members. In other embodiments, the removed member may comprise any other member associated with the MRI apparatus that may interfere with an MRI procedure. 
         [0081]    The above-noted embodiments are for the purpose of illustration and are not intended to limit the scope of the present invention or patent. Rather, various modifications, adaptations and extensions of the invention will be apparent to those skilled in the art and are intended to be within the scope of the present invention as contemplated by the claims that follow.