Patent Publication Number: US-2022226178-A1

Title: Trauma gurney with enhanced patient transfer capabilities

Description:
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS 
     This application claims priority to and the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 63/283,166, filed Nov. 24, 2021 and titled “Trauma Gurney with Enhanced Patient Transfer Capabilities,” and claims priority to and the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 63/139,063, filed Jan. 19, 2021 and titled “Trauma Gurney with Enhanced Patient Imaging Capability.” Each of the foregoing applications is incorporated herein by this reference in its entirety. 
    
    
     BACKGROUND 
     This application relates to the field of patient transfer. Patients must sometimes be moved about a hospital in a gurney or other transport device because they are unable to transport themselves even small distances. For example, trauma patients often need to be moved from a gurney in order to be properly placed within an imaging machine (e.g., an MRI or CT machine). Problems may arise when it is necessary to move a patient from one surface to another. This process can be difficult for emergency personnel. For example, a patient may be unconscious and/or unable to assist in the movement and it may require multiple medical personnel to move the patient. Lateral transfers can be dangerous to both the patient and medical staff. For example, lateral transfers may risk further injury to fragile patients (such as patients with spinal trauma) or new injury to medical staff (through lifting and straining to move a patient to a new surface). 
     Additional issues arise when it is necessary to move patients for certain types of imaging. For example, it may be necessary to “log roll” a patient to her side in order to slide an imaging cassette directly under the patient for an x-ray or other type of imaging. Similar risks are associated with even small movements to the patient. Indeed, simple procedures, such as acquiring the patient&#39;s weight, can be difficult if the patient is unable to move to the corresponding equipment. Critical, life-saving time can be lost as medical staff labor to carefully move patients for diagnostic tests. 
     Some attempt to solve this issue by providing transfer-only gurneys. However, these gurneys do not fulfill the standard functions of a gurney, let alone the needs of a gurney in trauma settings. For example, these gurneys are unable to properly support a patient during intense medical treatment such as CPR and the like. Moreover, these transfer-only gurneys often cannot support the monitors and equipment that are necessary to treat the patient. Other solutions such as low-tinsel friction fabrics and sliding boards are not built into the gurney nor do they eliminate the need for a lateral transfer. 
     One example of a prior art transfer gurney is described in U.S. Pat. No. 8,813,277 to Ahlman The Ahlman gurney is intended to provide a single surface on which a patient remains during diagnosis, treatment, and convalescence. The Ahlman gurney includes a single surface platform connected to “cantilever arms” of a “cantilever transfer and transport frame” via a set of hooks attached to the upper and lower ends of the platform (i.e., by the patient&#39;s head and feet). In use, the platform is positioned over an intended receiving table and the cantilever arms are lowered until the platform contacts the table. Further lowering of the cantilever arms disengages them from the hooks of the platform so that the frame can be moved away from the platform. 
     Although the Ahlman gurney is directed to a similar problem of minimizing patient lateral transfers, it includes several limitations. For example, the “cantilever” design of the Ahlman gurney disrupts the overall balance of the gurney and makes it unsuitable for use in many trauma situations such as administration of CPR. That is, because the frame of the Ahlman gurney is significantly asymmetric, significant downward forces on the cantilever free end risk rocking the gurney or even detaching the platform from the frame. Moreover, because the platform is attached to the frame via hooks disposed at the upper and lower ends of the platform, the platform remains unsupported on the sides, further increasing the risk of unwanted platform movement or detachment from the frame, particularly during intense procedures such as CPR. Further, the Ahlman gurney does not directly support the center of mass of the patient, meaning that the portions of the frame contacting and supporting the platform is not aligned with the center of mass of the patient, further contributing to the overall instability of the gurney. 
     The Ahlman gurney design also makes it difficult to position the gurney in the Trendelenburg or reverse Trendelenburg position. That is, even if it the cantilever arms can be positioned with differential height to provide some amount of tilt to the platform, the reliance on hook supports makes it unlikely that an operator could safely put a patient in a full (e.g., up to about 30° or 40° from horizontal) Trendelenburg or reverse Trendelenburg position. 
     In addition, because the patient platform attaches to the cantilever arms via upwardly extending hooks, the platform sits at a depressed elevation relative to the cantilever arms. This makes it difficult to place equipment near the patient&#39;s head or feet, as is often desired in typical emergency situations. The use of hooks also undesirably increases the risk that personnel and/or other equipment will catch or snag against the hooks, particularly given the often busy and crowded hospital setting. 
     Further, because the hooks are attached to the platform of the Ahlman gurney, they must remain with the platform even after the platform is detached from the frame. This means that the hooks will be inserted into an imaging system (e.g., MRI or CT machine) along with the patient. Even if the hooks are made of a compatible material, they are still likely to cause unwanted imaging artifacts in the resulting images. 
     Moreover, the leg members of the Ahlman gurney frame are designed to extend laterally (i.e., perpendicular to the longitudinal length of the gurney from upper to lower end). This requires a side approach to transfer the patient to any intended surface. That is, the laterally extending leg members of the Ahlman gurney make it impossible to do a direct, front approach to position the platform over the intended transfer surface. Instead, the Ahlman gurney must be placed side by side with the intended transfer surface and then the gurney must be further positioned so that the platform is disposed above the intended transfer surface. This is a significant limitation given that most imaging system tables do not include special gaps to accommodate the laterally extending leg members. For example, standard MRI machines do not include gaps between the imaging scanner and the patient table that would accommodate the lateral leg member of the frame of the Ahlman gurney. 
     Another example of a prior art device is described in United States Patent Publication No. 2016/0296387 to Schar. The Schar device includes a stretcher detachably connected to a frame. The lower end of the stretcher is connected to the frame while the upper end remains unsupported in a cantilever manner The frame can be positioned over a receiving table and the stretcher can be detached from the frame. 
     The Schar device also includes several limitations, and is unsuitable for use as a standard trauma gurney. As with the Ahlman gurney, the stretcher portion of the Schar device is not adequately supported by the frame in a manner that would enable CPR or other intensive emergency procedures common in hospital settings. For example, significant downward forces placed on the stretcher portion, particularly toward the upper, unsupported end of the stretcher portion would tend to rock the stretcher in a “diving board” manner and could even risk unintentionally detaching the stretcher from the frame. Further, as with the Ahlman gurney, the Schar device does not directly support the center of mass of the patient, meaning that the portion of the frame contacting and supporting the stretcher is not aligned with the center of mass of the patient, further contributing to the overall instability of the Schar device. 
     In addition, because the stretcher portion of the Schar device is only supported on one end, the stretcher is limited in how it can be positioned. For example, the Schar device cannot provide Trendelenburg or reverse Trendelenburg positions, nor can it bend to provide Fowler&#39;s position (low or high). 
     Moreover, the Schar device does not include a robust mechanism for adjusting the height of the stretcher portion relative to the frame. In use, the Schar device is positioned so the stretcher is over a therapy table and then the therapy table is raised to meet the stretcher. This design reduces the versatility of the device and limits practical use to receiving tables specifically designed to work with the device. Many receiving tables do not have any height adjustment capabilities and would not work with the Schar device. 
     Accordingly, there are a number of disadvantages with conventional trauma gurneys and transfer methods, and the field would benefit in particular from improvements that enable more effective lateral transfers of patients. 
     SUMMARY 
     The disclosed embodiments include a gurney (which may also be referred to herein as a “patient transport device”) configured to enable patient transfer without requiring lateral transfer. Such gurneys may also be referred to herein as “trauma gurneys,” though the term “trauma” is not intended to limit the potential uses or the beneficial features of the embodiments described herein. The gurney has a base with two longitudinally extending base members. The base is connected to a frame by way of an adjustment mechanism. The frame is u-shaped such that it has two longitudinally extending arms connected by a laterally extending portion. The two arms extend substantially parallel to the base members of the base. The adjustment mechanism is configured to adjust the height of the frame relative to the base. Finally, the gurney includes a patient platform detachably supported and/or connected to the frame and configured to detach from the frame. 
     The disclosed embodiments also include methods of transferring a patient using a trauma gurney. The trauma gurney includes a base that is connected to a frame by an adjustment mechanism. The frame holds a removeable patient platform. The method includes positioning the patient on the patient platform followed by adjusting the frame to a height which is greater than a height of the receiving table. After which, the method includes moving the trauma gurney to a position where the patient platform is above the receiving table and the base is positioned on either side of the receiving table in a longitudinal direction. The method includes adjusting the frame to a height such that the patient support comes in contact with the receiving table and detaches from the patient support. Finally, the method includes moving the frame and base away from the receiving table such that the patient support remains on the receiving table. 
     Embodiments described herein provide one or more improvements to the state of the art. For example, a trauma gurney as described herein can beneficially enable a front approach to an imaging system table or other intended patient transfer target. Once the patient platform is positioned over the intended receiving area, the portion of the frame supporting the patient platform can be lowered to bring the patient and the platform into contact with the receiving area. The frame and the remainder of the gurney can then be moved from the platform. To transfer the patient again, the process is reversed such that the patient platform is again supported by the gurney. 
     The gurney provides these beneficial functions while also being capable of standard trauma gurney functions. For example, the gurney has a structure that enables CPR and other intensive procedures common in hospital settings without risk of unintentionally moving or detaching the patient platform. The patient platform is also supported by the frame in a manner that directly supports the patient&#39;s center of mass. In other words, the portion of the frame contacting and supporting the patient platform is also coincident with the portion of the platform where the patient&#39;s center of mass (typically near the navel or slightly inferior of the navel) is expected to be when a patient is positioned thereon. Such features further contribute to the stability of the device. 
     This summary is provided to introduce a selection of concepts in a simplified form that are further described below in the detailed description. This summary is not intended to identify key features or essential features of the claimed subject matter, nor is it intended to be used as an indication of the scope of the claimed subject matter. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
       Various objects, features, characteristics, and advantages of the invention will become apparent and more readily appreciated from the following description of the embodiments, taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings and the appended claims, all of which form a part of this specification. In the Drawings, like reference numerals may be utilized to designate corresponding or similar parts in the various Figures, and the various elements depicted are not necessarily drawn to scale, wherein: 
         FIGS. 1-3  illustrate an exemplary trauma gurney with a patient platform, a frame, and a base. 
         FIG. 4  illustrates a trauma gurney with an exploded view of a patient platform. 
         FIGS. 5-7  illustrate various possible dimensions of a trauma gurney. 
         FIG. 8  illustrates a base of a trauma gurney including base members and an adjustment mechanism. 
         FIG. 9  illustrates a cutaway drawing of a base which illustrates various components of the base and the adjustment mechanism. 
         FIG. 10  illustrates attachment members that attach the base to the frame of a trauma gurney. 
         FIGS. 11-12  illustrate a u-shaped frame of a trauma gurney. 
         FIGS. 13-14  illustrate an underside of the frame and associated attachment members. 
         FIG. 15  illustrates a patient platform. 
         FIG. 16  illustrates an exploded view of the patient platform. 
         FIG. 17  illustrates the reverse side of the patient platform that includes a hinge. 
         FIG. 18  illustrates the patient platform as supported by the frame and showing associated components. 
         FIG. 19  illustrates a patient platform with a foldable shield. 
         FIGS. 20A and 20B  illustrate the adjusting functions of the trauma gurney to adjust the height of the frame up and down. 
         FIGS. 21A and 21B  illustrate the tilting function of the trauma gurney to tilt the frame. 
         FIG. 22A-22G  illustrate a transfer of a patient from the trauma gurney to a receiving table. 
         FIG. 23  illustrates a method of transferring a patient to a receiving table with a trauma gurney. 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
     Example Benefits of Disclosed Trauma Gurneys 
     When trauma patients arrive at the hospital, they are typically moved several times laterally from a gurney to other hospital equipment. This not only risks further injury and delayed diagnosis and/or treatment to the patient, but also exposes medical staff to injury and/or liability. Eliminating the need to laterally transfer patients until possible injuries are diagnosed and transfer is deemed safer and can thus provide several benefits to the technical field. 
     In one embodiment, a specialized gurney enables care and procedures to be performed without laterally moving patients positioned thereon. The gurney includes a detachable platform on which the patient may be positioned. The platform is designed to detach from the gurney frame to allow the patient to be left in a desired place with the patient platform while the gurney frame is moved away from the patient. The gurney base has space between the members (i.e., legs/supports) of the base so that the gurney can be pushed over a receiving table (such as OR, MRI, CT, and/or x-ray table/bed) and, thus, straddle the receiving table as the patient is lowered to the surface. For example, the base supports of the trauma gurney are designed to run substantially parallel with standard imaging tables and/or other hospital/OR patient receiving equipment. 
     The support can then be detached from the gurney frame once the patient is navigated to the desired position. After desired imaging and/or other procedures are performed, the support may then be re-attached to the gurney frame. This avoids or minimizes the need to laterally transfer the patient manually until diagnosis, emergent procedures, and/or patient stabilization is achieved. This allows imaging (e.g., MRI, CT, OR, x-ray) and/or other procedures to be performed without needing to laterally slide, lift, hoist, or otherwise move the patient. 
     In some embodiments, the gurney includes tracks underneath the patient support that allow positioning of x-ray cassettes and/or grids under the patient. Thus, equipment can be placed under the patient for standard emergent imaging without requiring “log rolling” or otherwise moving the patient. In some embodiments, an integrated scale may also be incorporated to provide accurate patient body weight in order to speed diagnostic time and determination of medication doses to be administered. 
     The gurney is also structurally configured to be able to perform the functions of a standard gurney as needed. For example, the gurney is capable of supporting and withstanding forces associated with administration of CPR to patients lying thereon. This is a result of the overall balanced structure of the device. For example, the frame of the gurney is designed to support the detachable platform on both sides and at regions coinciding with the patient&#39;s center of mass. The platform is also supported along an effective proportion of its perimeter. These features enable standard trauma gurney usage, including the ability to move between standard patient positions, Trendelenburg, reverse Trendelenburg, and Fowler&#39;s positions as desired. The gurney is also preferably designed and engineered to be compatible with the MRI environment. 
     The trauma gurney disclosed herein may also be used as a standard gurney and/or transport device, and may be housed in ICU or urgent care settings, for example, to speed up care/diagnosis if patient condition were to change and need services that require a lateral transfer. 
     Overview of an Example Trauma Gurney 
     The embodiments will now be described with respect to the Figures.  FIG. 1  illustrates an exemplary trauma gurney  100  that has a base  110 , a frame  120 , and a patient platform  130  supported by the frame  120 . The base  110  includes base members  111 ,  112  that extend longitudinally (i.e., along the long axis of the gurney), with space between them that is sufficient to allow the gurney to be positioned over a receiving table/bed for medical equipment (e.g., MRI machine) or other intended patient receiving area. The base  110  is connected to the frame  120  by way of an adjustment mechanism  113  that is adjustable in height. 
     The frame  120  includes two arms  121 ,  122  that extend in a longitudinal axis of the trauma gurney  100 . The illustrated frame  120  also includes a laterally extending portion  123  at the lower end (i.e., near the patient&#39;s feet) that connects the arms  121 ,  122 . The arms  121 ,  122  extend in a direction parallel to a longitudinal axis of the gurney  100  and are also spaced apart. The arms  121 ,  122  enable the frame  120  to hold the patient platform  130  between each arm  121 ,  122 . The frame  120  contacts the patient platform  130  on the side edges of the patient platform  130 . In this manner, the patient platform  130  can be downwardly placed on a receiving table and the frame  120  can be detached from the patient platform  130 . The frame  120  can either be lowered away from the patient platform  130  or the patient platform  130  may be lifted upwards away from the frame. Such functionality will be described in greater detail below. 
       FIGS. 2 and 3  show additional views of the trauma gurney  100 .  FIG. 2  illustrates the rearward view of the trauma gurney  100 . The rearward side is the side of the gurney nearest to the laterally extending portion  123 . In typical use, the rearward side is the portion of the trauma gurney  100  that is nearest to the patient&#39;s feet.  FIG. 2  also illustrates optional lateral base members  114 ,  115  extending along a lateral axis of the trauma gurney  100 . The lateral base members  114 ,  115  are detachably connected to the base members  111 ,  112  or otherwise configured to fold and/or disengage to provide clearance between the base members  111 ,  112  when desired. The lateral base members  114 ,  115  provide additional stability to the trauma gurney  100 . Additional stability is beneficial to help the base members  111 ,  112  to withstand stresses. For example, stresses may include transportation stresses, impact stresses, or stresses related to treatment of the patient (e.g., CPR). The lateral base members  114 ,  115  are a crossmember that provide additional support by attaching to the opposing, parallel base members  111 ,  112 . The lateral base members  114 ,  115  are removeable so that the trauma gurney  100  can be maneuvered over a receiving table.  FIG. 3 , for example, illustrates the trauma gurney  100  with the lateral base members  114 ,  115  removed. In at least some implementations, the lateral base members  114 ,  115  are optional, and the base  110  and base members  111 ,  112  provide sufficient stability without the lateral base members  114 ,  115 . 
       FIG. 3  illustrates a front/forward side of the trauma gurney  100 . The forward side is the side of the gurney that is furthest away from the laterally extending portion  123 . In typical use, the forward side is the portion of the trauma gurney  100  that is nearest to the patient&#39;s head. The view in  FIG. 3  clearly illustrates the space provided between the base members  111 ,  112 . The base members  111 ,  112  run longitudinally parallel to one another and are on opposing sides of the trauma gurney  100 , defining a space between the base members  111 ,  112 . Because of the space between the base members  111 ,  112 , the gurney  100  can be maneuvered, in a front approach fashion, over a receiving table that has a width less than the width between the base members  111 ,  112 . Thus, the space provided between the base members  111 ,  112  allows the trauma gurney  100  to straddle over the receiving table. 
       FIG. 4  illustrates some components and features of the attachment between the patient platform  130  and the frame  120 , showing an exploded view of the patient platform  130 . The patient platform  130  may include a patient support  131 , a shield  132 , and a pad  133 . The patient support  131  is in contact with and supported by the frame  120 . In the illustrated embodiment, the patient support  131  has a mating channel  134  along the longitudinal edges and downward side  135  of the patient support  131 . 
     The mating channel  134  may extend the full length of the patient support  131  in a longitudinal direction. Alternatively, the mating channel  134  may also run only a portion of the length of the patient support  131 . In some instances, the mating channel  134  may run along one or more lateral edges of the patient support  131 . The mating channel  134  is designed to fit with a mating ledge  126  on the frame  120 . The mating ledge  126  is located on the inner edge of each arm  121 ,  122  of the frame  120 . In this manner, the frame  120  supports the platform  130 . In some embodiments, the support surface  136  of the patient support  131  is flush with the support surface  125  of the frame while the patient support  131  is being supported by the frame  120 . In some embodiments, the patient support  131  omits a distinct mating channel  134  yet maintains an overall width sufficient to be supported by the mating ledge  126  of the frame  120 . 
     The platform  130  is removably attached to the frame  120 . In the illustrated embodiment, the mating channel  134  of the platform is supported by the ledge  126  of the frame  120 . Additionally, or alternatively, the platform  130  may attach mechanically to the frame  120  as downward forces are applied to the patient platform  130  which force the platform  130  into the frame  120 . For example, the platform  130  may also attach with interlocking edges, serrations, friction materials, a friction fit, or the like. The attachment between the channel  134  and the mating ledge  126  enable the frame to be removable from underneath the patient platform  130  after the platform  130  has been transferred to the receiving table. This is done by lowering the frame  120  below the resting position of the patient platform  130  (e.g., the height of the patient platform  130  on the receiving table), or alternatively by raising the patient platform  130  above the frame  120 . This will be described further below. 
     In some embodiments, the surface side  136  of the patient support  131  is flush with the surface side  125  of the frame when the platform  130  is supported by the frame  120 . In addition, the reverse/downward side  135  of the platform  130  may be flush with the reverse side  127  of the frame  120 . 
     Example Trauma Gurney Dimensions 
       FIGS. 5-7  illustrate various perspectives and exemplary, non-limiting dimensions of the trauma gurney. Dimensions preferably meet the US national specifications of door widths and room size for hospital/ICU settings.  FIG. 5  illustrates a top-down view of the gurney  100 . Here, the u-shape of the frame  120  can be seen clearly with two longitudinally extending arms  121 ,  122  and one laterally extending portion  123  that connects the arms  121 ,  122  on the rearward side of the trauma gurney  100 . The laterally extending portion  123  may also include an equipment platform  124  that can be used for supporting monitors and/or other equipment. In some embodiments, the laterally extending portion  123  is omitted. For example, the frame  120  may include the longitudinally extending arms  121 ,  122  without a lateral connection. 
       FIG. 5  illustrates the overall width of the frame, which is the distance from one edge of the frame  120  to an opposing edge in a lateral direction. In some instances, the overall width may be 35-55 inches, or more preferably 40-50 inches, or even more preferably 43-45 inches, and most preferably about 44 inches. The patient platform  130  also has a bed width which is the distance of the patient support  131  from one edge to an opposing edge in a lateral direction. The bed width of the patient platform  130  may be about 10-30 inches, but more preferably 15-25 inches, or even more preferably 19-21 inches, and most preferably about 20 inches. 
       FIG. 6  illustrates a view of the trauma gurney  100  that is similar to the rear view illustrated in  FIG. 2 . Here, the clearance dimensions of the trauma gurney  100  can be seen. The max clear span is the distance between the inner sides of the two base members  111 ,  112  in a lateral direction. The max clear span represents the maximum width that the trauma gurney  100  can functionally span. In some instances, the max clear span is about 15-45 inches, or about 20-40 inches, or about 25-35 inches, or about 30-32 inches. The max clear height is the vertical distance from the floor to the bottom side of the platform  130 . In some instances, the max clear height is about 20-50 inches, or about 30-40 inches, or about 36-39 inches. 
       FIG. 7  illustrates a full length along a longitudinal axis of the trauma gurney  100 . The overall length of the table is the distance along a longitudinal axis of the trauma gurney  100  from the end of the longitudinally extending arm  121  or  122  to the end of the monitor platform  124 . In some instances, the overall length is about 70-110 inches, or about 90-100 inches, or about 93-95 inches. The patient platform  130  also has a length, which is the distance from one end to the other along the longitudinal axis of the trauma gurney  100 . In some instances, the platform length is about 60-90 inches, or about 70-85 inches, or about 77-79 inches. Finally, the trauma gurney also has a table height, which is the height from the floor to the support surface  125  of the frame  120  which is a side of the frame where the patient is in contact with the trauma gurney  100 . Because the frame is adjustable in a height direction (due to the adjustment mechanism  113 ) the table height will be a range from a minimum height to a maximum height. In some instances, the table height range is about 25-55 inches, or about 30-50 inches, or about 35-43 inches. 
     Additional Base Details 
     Discussion will now be turned to the various components of the base  1100  illustrated in  FIGS. 8-10 . The base  1100  of  FIGS. 8-9  generally corresponds to the base  110  of  FIGS. 1-7 , and the following features are applicable to the base  110 . The base  1100  may be constructed from a weldment with standard tubing. Alternatively, the base  1100  may be constructed from a stamping. As described above, the base  1100  includes one or more base members  1110 ,  1120 . The base members  1110 ,  1120  are arranged so that the trauma gurney can be pushed over a receiving table. For example, the base members  1110 ,  1120  are spaced apart and may be aligned substantially parallel to each other along the longitudinal axis of the trauma gurney  100  (i.e., the longest axis of the trauma gurney  100 ). The base  1100  may also include an adjustment mechanism  1130 , attachment members  1160 , a cover  1117 , and lateral base members  114 ,  115  (see  FIG. 2 ). 
     The base members  1110 ,  1120  include rails that support the various components of the base members  1110 ,  1120  and the adjustment mechanism  1130 . The base members may include wheels  1111 , a braking system, a caster control system  1112 , and control pedals  1113 ,  1114 ,  1115 ,  1116 . The base members  1110 ,  1120  may also house various components of the adjustment mechanism  1130 , which will be discussed with reference to  FIG. 11  below. The caster control system  1112  is used to keep the wheel alignment in the direction of travel. This can be accomplished by using standard caster control systems such as hydraulic or mechanical caster systems. The caster control system may include casters or a caster control lever  1113 . The control pedals  1114 ,  1115 ,  1116  may be used to control various aspects of the adjustment mechanism  1130 . 
     The adjustment mechanism  1130  is a mechanism used to move the frame  120  in a height direction (e.g., vertically up and down) with respect to the base  110 . The adjustment mechanism may be, for example, mechanical, hydraulic, electric, or combination thereof.  FIG. 9  shows various components that may be used in a hydraulic adjustment mechanism  1130 . For example, the adjustment mechanism  1130  may include pistons  1131  that are mounted rigidly to the base members. The rigid mount of the pistons  1131  enables forces that are applied to the frame  120  to transfer down to the base members  1110 ,  1120 . In this manner, a user can push the frame  120  and the force will cause the base members  1110 ,  1120  to move in the direction of the force. In addition, by rigidly securing the pistons  1131  to the base members  1110 ,  1120 , the trauma gurney has increased stability. The pistons  1131  may be mounted to the base members  1110 ,  1120  with a side mount, end mount, sleeve, or the like. 
     The illustrated adjustment mechanism  1130  also includes a pump  1132 . The pump  1132  may be controlled by a pedal  1114 . For example, hydraulic pressure may be added by way of a foot pump with pedal  1114 . The pump  1132  may also be a hydraulic ram with a cartridge design that has a smaller inner hydraulic ram and a heavy outer sleeve. A hydraulic ram is beneficial to decrease the size of the pump and use less hydraulic fluid. The adjustment mechanism  1130  may also include a fluid accumulator tank  1133 , hydraulic lines  1134  and fittings. The hydraulic lines  1134  are used to supply and return fluid to a proportioning valve that is located in or on the frame  120 . The lines  1134  may be helical, expanding lines. The proportioning valve ensures that the hydraulic adjustment mechanism  1130  located on a first base member  1110  is in communication with the hydraulic adjustment mechanism  1130  on the second base member  1120 . In this manner, the adjustment mechanism  1130  located on each base member  1110 ,  1120  will adjust the height of the frame  120  together. This feature enables the adjustment mechanism  1130  to make the same adjustments to both the first base member  1110  and the second base member  1120 . 
     The adjustment mechanism  1130  has various control valves  1135  that correspond to pedals  1115 ,  1116 . Each control valve  1135  controls either the forward piston  1131  or the rearward pistons  1131 . Each pedal  1115 ,  1116  corresponds to a valve  1135  to control either the forward or rearward pistons  1131 . In this manner, a user can control the forward or rearward pistons  1131  individually to adjust the height or tilt of the frame  1200 . The adjustment mechanism  1130  also includes one or more manifolds  1136  connected to each of the valves  1135  on a base member  1110 ,  1120 . Finally, the adjustment mechanism  1130  may include a support guide for attachment of the various components of the adjustment mechanism  1130  (the valves, accumulator, guidelines, etc.). 
     The adjustment mechanism is preferably made from non-magnetic and non-interfering materials. For example, they may be constructed from Austenitic steels such as AASI 304 and AISI 316. Fittings and valves may be made from stainless steel or the like. Alternatively, the fittings and valves may have stainless steel bodies while internal components are made from brass, bronze, or the like. Low-stress components may be made with materials such as aluminum and glass-filled nylon, carbon fiber, Kevlar, ABS, and urethanes. 
     The illustrated adjustment mechanism  1130  is able to raise and lower the frame  1200  in the following manner Hydraulic pressure from the pump  1132  is fed to the central manifold  1136 . Afterward, pressure is fed through the hydraulic lines  1134  to the proportioning valve (not illustrated) located in the frame  1200 . Once the pressure is equalized on both base members  1110 ,  1120  of the base  1100 , the pressure is fed to the pistons  1131 . The height of the piston  1131  (and thereby the height of the frame  1200 ) is controlled by draining and adding fluid to the respective pistons  1131 . The frame  1200  can be adjusted into a tilt by controlling a different the pressure in the frontward and rearward pistons  1131 . In this manner, the adjustment mechanism  1130  can control the height and tilt of the frame as will be shown and described further with respect to  FIGS. 20A and 20B . 
       FIG. 10  illustrates an exemplary attachment member  1160  that may be used to attach the adjustment mechanism  1130  to the frame  120 . In one embodiment, the attachment members  1160  are clevis fasteners  1161  attached to the top of the hydraulic pistons  1131 . The clevis fasteners  1161  may have broad, flat, and precision-machined faces that fit into a channel on the reverse side  1217 ,  1227  of the frame  1200  (shown in  FIGS. 13-14 ). In some instances, the width of the clevis  1161  face is about 1-5 inches, but more preferably 2-4 inches, or even more preferably 2.5-3.5 inches, and most preferably 3 inches. Each clevis  1161  includes an axle bore  1162 ,  1163  and a pivot axle  1164 ,  1165  that fits through the axle bore  1162 ,  1163 . The devises  1161  located on the forward end (i.e., the side furthest away from the laterally extending portion  1230 ), may have an elongated bore  1163 . The elongated bore  1163  is a bore that is elongated in the forward and rearward direction to allow the pivot axle  1165  to move slightly forward and rearward within the elongated bore  1163 . In this manner, the attachment member  1160  will accommodate a tilt of the frame  1200  because the pivot axle  1165  can move forward and rearward to accommodate different angles of the frame  1200 . 
     The base member may also include a cover  1117 . The cover may, for example, be a blow molded shroud that improves both the aesthetics and ease of sanitization of the trauma gurney  100 . Part of the cover  1118  may be made of a different material or design. For example, a different type of cover  1117  may be needed for flexible or moving parts. In one instance, the part of the cover  1118  that covers the adjustment mechanism may be a flexible shroud to accommodate the movement of the adjustment mechanism  1130 . For example, part of the cover  1118  may include a flexible shroud with an accordion design as shown in  FIG. 9 . 
     Finally, the base  1100  may include lateral base members  114 ,  115  as was discussed above with reference to  FIGS. 2 and 3 . The lateral base members  114 ,  115  attach to the base member  1110 ,  1120  horizontally to connect the base members  1110 ,  1120  together. The lateral base members  114 ,  115  are removeable. Hooks  1119  and/or other suitable attachment features may be provided on the base  1100  for storing the lateral base member  114 ,  115  when they are not in use. 
     Additional Frame Details 
     Discussion will now be turned to the various components of the frame  1200  shown in  FIGS. 11-14 . The frame  1200  illustrated in  FIGS. 11-14  generally corresponds to the frame  120  of  FIGS. 1-7 , and the following features may be included in frame  120 . The frame  1200  provides stability for transporting and treating the patient. Thus, the frame  1200  is designed to avoid weaknesses due to stress concentration and the frame  1200  has high flexural and torsional strength. That is, the frame  1200  is preferably rigid in the longitudinal and lateral axes to provide stability to the trauma gurney  100 . In one embodiment, frame  1200  may be a monocoque structure. In another embodiment, the frame  1200  may be constructed from a torsion-box weldment. The frame may be constructed from materials that have strength, rigidity, and will not interfere with medical equipment (i.e., sufficiently non-magnetic to avoid interference with an MRI). For example, the frame  1200  may be constructed from Austenitic stainless steels such as AISI 304 and AISI 316. Alternatively, the frame  1200  may be constructed from carbon-fiber with stainless steel inserts in areas of stress concentration. 
     In the illustrated embodiment, the main structure of the frame  1200  is a u-shaped design with two longitudinally extending arms  1210 ,  1220  that are connected by one laterally extending portion  1230 . This shape is beneficial because there is no frame structure near forward side where the patient&#39;s head is positioned. Thus, the frame  1200  does not obstruct the relevant area and medical personal have effective access to the patient&#39;s head. The u-shaped frame  1200  is also beneficial because it allows the patient platform  1300  to detach from the frame  1200  so that the frame  1200  can be maneuvered away from the patient when the patient is positioned on a receiving table. 
     In the illustrated embodiment, each of the arms  1210 ,  1220  includes a mating ledge  1260  to hold the patient platform  1300 . The mating ledge  1260  is located on the inner edge of each arm  1210 ,  1220 . The mating ledge  1260  may also extend along the laterally extending portion  1230 . The mating ledge  1260  supports the patient platform  1300  along the permitter of the patient platform  1300 . In some instances, the mating ledge  1260  is in contact with only the two longest edges of the patient platform  1300 , for example the longitudinally extending edges of the patient platform  1300 . In other instances, the mating ledge  1260  is in contact with two longitudinally extending edges and one laterally extending edge of the patient platform  1300 . 
     The frame  1200  contacts the perimeter edge of the patient platform  1300  (e.g., via the mating ledge  1260 ). In some instances, the frame  1200  supports at least 20% of the patient platform perimeter edge, at least 30% of the patient platform perimeter edge, at least 40% of the patient platform perimeter edge, at least 50% of the patient platform perimeter edge, at least 60% of the patient platform perimeter edge, at least 70% of the patient platform perimeter edge, or at least about 75% of the patient platform perimeter edge. Some embodiments are configured to include a range of such contact percentages with endpoints defined by any two of the foregoing values. 
     In some embodiments, the frame  1200  contacts and supports at least 20%, or at least 30%, or at least 40%, or at least 50%, or at least 60%, or at least 70%, or at least 80%, or at least 90% of a perimeter edge along at least one longitudinally extending side of the patient platform  1300 , or along both longitudinally extending edges of the patient platform  1300 . In some embodiments, the frame  1200  contacts and supports substantially the entire edge along at least one longitudinally extending side of the patient platform, or along both longitudinally extending sides of the patient platform. 
     As shown in the illustrated embodiments, the frame  1200  contacts and supports at least the edges of a central section of the platform  1300  disposed between the upper end and the lower end of the platform  1300 . In other words, along the longitudinal length of the patient platform  1300 , the frame  1200  contacts and supports at least the side edges of a central section that is substantially coincident with the center of mass of the patient (e.g., near the navel or slightly below). The “central section” may be defined as the section of the patient platform  1300  that is at least about 10 inches from the upper end and at least about 10 inches from the lower end of the patient platform  1300 , or that is at least about 15 inches from the upper end and at least about 15 inches from the lower end of the patient platform  1300 , or that is at least about 20 inches from the upper end and at least about 20 inches from the lower end of the patient platform  1300 , or that is at least about 25 inches from the upper end and at least about 25 inches from the lower end of the patient platform  1300 , or that is at least about 30 inches from the upper end and at least about 30 inches from the lower end of the patient platform  1300 . 
     The frame  1200  may also include features to improve transport of the trauma gurney  1000 . For example, the frame  1200  may include bumpers  1214  or gliders to prevent damage to the gurney  100  or other objects as the gurney  1000  is maneuvered or transported. The frame  1200  may also include handholds (handholds  1211  near the front and/or handholds  1212  near the rear) for a user to grasp in maneuvering the trauma gurney  100 . The illustrated frame  1200  also includes a rail system  1250 . The rail system  1250  includes adjustable rails  1251 ,  1252  that serve to prevent a patient from falling out of the trauma gurney  100  and/or function as another handhold for a user to maneuver the trauma gurney  100 . 
     The rails  1251 ,  1252  are adjustable in height. In some embodiments, the rails  1251 ,  1252  may rotate along a series of hinges to fold to a lowered position. In a preferred embodiment, the rails  1251 ,  1252  mount into sleeves and slide vertically. Rails  1251 ,  1252  that slide vertically are advantageous because this type of rail system  1250  avoids hazardous moving parts that form pinch points that risk injury to the patient or medical staff. 
       FIG. 11  illustrates the rails  1251 ,  1252  in a first position where the rails are adjusted vertically upward away from the surface  1215 ,  1225  of the frame  1200 .  FIG. 1  illustrates the rails  1251 ,  1252  in a second position where the rails are adjusted vertically downward near the surface of the frame. In the second position, the rails  1251 ,  1252  do not obstruct access to the patient platform  1300 . With the rails  1251 ,  1252  lowered, it is easier to position a patient onto (or remove the patient from) the trauma gurney. When the rails  1251 ,  1252  are in the second position, medical staff has improved access to the patient for treatment and/or other processes. 
     Referring again to  FIG. 11 , the illustrated rail system  1250  includes a locking device to secure the rails  1251 ,  1252  in place after adjustment. In some embodiments, the locking mechanism is a camming device or a ratcheting device that is released to allow movement when a user pulls a lever  1253 . However, when the lever  1253  is released, the locking mechanism will engage to prevent further adjustments of the rails  1252 ,  1252 . 
     An equipment platform  1240  may be attached to the laterally extending portion  1230  for supporting medical equipment. For example, the equipment platform  1240  may be designed to support monitors, supplies, charts, tubes, and/or other hospital equipment. In some embodiments, the equipment platform  1240  includes a faraday cage to protect the equipment from electromagnetic fields emitted by imaging equipment or other medical procedures. Such a faraday cage is beneficial because it enables the trauma gurney  100  to remain in the MRI room with the patient during imaging without interference between the equipment supported on the trauma gurney  1000  and the imaging machine. Standard gurneys must often be removed from the MRI room to avoid potential interference. 
     The frame  1200  may also include utility hooks or hoops  1216  that can be used for tube management and/or equipment storage (e.g., storing oxygen canisters or patient charts). The frame  1200  may also include a pole  1231  for holding intravenous bags, tubes, or the like. The pole  1231  may be foldable or telescoping for easy storage, the frame  1200  or base  1100  may include other trays, hooks, or storage bins needed to transport objects with the gurney  1000 . 
     The frame  1200  may also include a proportional metering valve as discussed above with regard to the adjustment mechanism  1130 . The hydraulic lines  1134  will be included in the frame  1200  to supply and return fluid to the proportioning valve (not illustrated). The proportioning valve assembly (e.g., the proportioning valve and the hydraulic lines  1134 ) may be disposed internally or externally on the frame  1200 . 
     The frame  1200  may also have a scale for measuring the weight of a patient supported by the patient platform  1300 . In one instance, the scale is located in the mating ledge  1260  where the patient platform  1300  is attached to the frame. The scale may also be faraday protected. In this manner, a patient can be weighed without removing the patient from the trauma gurney  1000 , which saves time and can enable faster treatment of the patient. For example, stroke patients are often imaged to determine whether the stroke is ischemic or hemorrhagic. If ischemic, the patient is typically treated with tissue-plasminogen activator (TPA). Integrating the scale with the gurney enables medical staff to readily measure the patient weight so as to determine proper TPA dosage (and/or proper dosage of other treatments) without the need to separately transfer the patient to a scale and then back to a transfer gurney. 
     A method of weighing a patient may include zeroing a scale before the patient is placed on the trauma gurney and then weighing the patient when the patient is first positioned on the gurney. Another method includes zeroing the scale when the patient and the patient platform have been removed from the frame  1200  and transferred to a receiving table. Later, when the patient and the patient platform are transferred back to the trauma gurney  1000  the method includes weighing the patient as connection is reestablished between the patient platform  1300  at the frame  1200 . In either method, it may be necessary to account for the weight of the patient platform  1300  in calculating the patient&#39;s weight. 
     Turning now to  FIGS. 13 and 14 , the illustrated frame  1200  includes a mounting channel  1270  that is located on the reverse side  1217 ,  1227  of the frame  1200 . The channel  1270  fits around the attachment member  1160  that is connected to the adjustment mechanism  1130  of the base  1100 . The channel  1270  may be formed as part of the monolithic structure of the frame  1200 . Alternatively, the channel may be welded or bolted to the frame  1200 . The attachment member  1160  that fits into the channel  1270  may include multiple devises  1161  as shown in  FIGS. 13 and 14 . The width of the channel  1270  will correspond with the width of the clevis face such that the devises  1161  can fit into the channel  1270  and the devises  1161  will abut each side of the channel  1270 . The channel is machined to fit the devises  1161 , but alternatively the fit between the channel  1270  and the devises  1161  may be shimmed or gibbed. The channel may also include multiple bores  1271 ,  1272  that correspond with the axle bores  1162 ,  1163  of the devises  1161 . Notably, the bore  1271 , which corresponds with the elongated clevis bore  1163 , is not elongated. To attach the frame  1200  to the base  1100 , the devises  1161  are inserted into the channel  1270  and an axle  1164 ,  1165  is fed through both the channel bores  1271 ,  1272  and the axle bores  1162 ,  1163 . 
     Additional Patient Platform Details 
     Discussion will now be turned to the various components of the patient platform  1300  shown in  FIGS. 15-19 . The patient platform  1300  generally corresponds to the patient platform  130  of  FIGS. 1-7 , and the following features may be included in patient platform  130 . The patient platform  1300  is designed to disconnect from the trauma gurney  100  and be left with the patient during a procedure, such as imaging. Thus, the patient platform  1300  is designed to interfere minimally with various procedures that the patient may undergo because the platform will be present with the patient during the imaging In one embodiment, the patient platform  1300  will be constructed from non-magnetic and non-interfering materials that are radio transparent. In another embodiment, the patient platform  1300  has a flat surface so that a view of the patient is unobstructed during imaging. This feature is beneficial in order to prevent the patient platform  1300  from leaving artifacts on the imaging. 
       FIG. 15  illustrates the patient platform  1300  and  FIG. 16  illustrates an exploded view of the patient platform  1300 . The illustrated patient platform includes a patient support  1310 , a shield  1320 , a pad  1330 , and tracks  1340  (i.e., legs or rails). The patient platform  1300  is supported by the arms  1210 ,  1220  of the frame  1200  along the longitudinally-extending, side edges of the patient support  1310 . 
     The illustrated patient platform  1300  has two portions  1301 ,  1302 . The upper portion  1301  is the portion of the platform that generally supports the patient&#39;s head and chest and is disposed furthest away from the laterally extending portion  1230  of the frame  1200 . The lower portion  1302  is the portion of the platform that generally supports the patient&#39;s legs and feet and is positioned closest to the laterally extending portion  1230  of the frame  1200 . The positioning of the upper and lower portions  1301 ,  1302  with regard to the laterally extending portion  1230  can be seen in  FIG. 1 . 
     The patient platform  1300  includes a pad  1330 . The pad  1330  is a cushioning device to improve the patient&#39;s comfort while positioned on the trauma gurney  100 . The pad  1330  may be a standard gurney pad. Alternatively, the pad  1330  may be made of a closed cell urethane casting. Preferably, the pad  1330  will be thinner than a standard gurney pad to improve the quality of imaging that can be obtained while the patient is positioned on the platform  1300 . The pad  1330  is configured to bend between the upper and lower portions  1301 ,  1302  of the patient platform  1300 . The pad  1330  will include features to enable the bend, such as a hinge, crease, flexible section, or the like. 
     The patient support  1310  is a rigid support that is designed to carry the weight of the patient. The patient support  1310  includes handholds  1314  which can be used by a user to position the support  1310 . The patient support is constructed as thin as possible to improve the quality of imaging that can be obtained while the patient is positioned on the platform  1300 . The patient support  1310  may be constructed from radiolucent and noninterfering materials such as carbon fiber, Kevlar, fiber reinforced polymers, or the like. The patient support  1310  may include a shroud constructed of bonded polyethylene. The shroud may include mechanical connectors constructed from aluminum fasteners. 
     As shown in  FIG. 17 , the illustrated patient support  1310  includes a hinge  1313  at the junction of the upper and lower portions  1301 ,  1302 . The hinge  1313  and the hinge pin may be constructed from radiolucent materials. For example, the hinge  1313  and hinge pin may be glass-reinforced nylon. Alternatively, the hinge  1313  for the patient support  1310  can be constructed from glass-filled nylons and hinge pin may constructed from a stainless steel. 
     The hinge  1313  is generally located at the waist or hip area of the patient. The upper portion  1301  may have a smaller longitudinal length than the lower portion  1302 . The hinge  1313  may be a range-limiting hinge such that it is only possible to bend the patient support  1310  within a predetermined range. For example, the range-limiting hinge  1313  may allow the patient support  1310  to bend to angles less than about 90°. In this manner, the upper portion  1301  can be raised such that the patient is supported in a sitting position. On the other hand, the hinge  1313  will not allow the patient support  1310  to bend to an angle greater than a flat horizontal position. In another embodiment, the range-limiting hinge  1313  may only allow for angles between about 0° to about 90°. 
     A support assembly, located on either the patient support  1310  or the frame  1200  may be provided to support the patient platform  1300  in the sitting position. In one embodiment, the support assembly folds out from the reverse side of the patient platform  1300  and locks into grooves provided in the frame  1200 . Alternatively, the support assembly folds out from the frame  1200  and locks into grooves provided in the reverse side of the patient platform  1300 . 
     The patient support  1310  also includes a mating channel  1311  (i.e., mating ledges). The mating channel  1311  is located along the perimeter edge of the patient support  1310 . In one embodiment, the mating channel  1311  is located on the longitudinally extending edges of the patient support  1310 . In other words, the mating channel  1311  is located on the two longest edges of the patient support  1310  that correspond with the arms  1210 ,  1220  of the frame  1200 . In another embodiment the mating channel  1311  is located on two longitudinally extending edges and one laterally extending edge that correspond with the arms  1210 ,  1220  and the laterally extending portion  1230  of the frame  1200 . 
     The mating channel  1311  is designed to engage with the mating ledge  1260  of the frame  1200 . This is shown in  FIG. 18 . In some instances, the thickness of the mating ledge  1260  is smaller than the thickness of the frame  1200 . In this manner, the patient support  1310  is flush with the frame  1200  when it is attached to the frame  1200 . The patient support  1310  and the frame  1200  may be flush on the support surface (e.g., a surface where the patient is positioned), the reverse surface (e.g., the surface opposite the support surface), or both. The mating ledge  1260  is configured to contact and support the patient support  1310 . Additionally, or alternatively, the mating ledge  1260  and the mating channel  1311  may attach with interlocking edges, serrations, friction materials, or the like. 
     As shown in  FIG. 18 , the patient platform  1300  may also include tracks  1340 . The tracks  1340  are disposed on the reverse side  1312  of the patient support  1310  and extend along the longitudinally extending side edge of the patient support  1310 . In this embodiment, the tracks function as “legs” that hold up the patient support  1310  when the patient support  1310  is positioned on a receiving table  1400 . The tracks  1340  also allow medical personnel to position an imaging device (i.e., an x-ray cassette) and/or other equipment underneath the patient support  1310 . In other words, when the patient support  1310  is resting on a receiving table  1400 , the tracks  1340  create a gap G 1  between the patient support  1310  and the surface of the receiving table  1400 . An imaging device can slide through the gap G 1  into position under the patient and between the patient support  1310  and the receiving table  1400 . In this embodiment, the tracks are L-shaped and include a foot portion  1341  that rests on the receiving table  1400 . The foot portion  1341  is beneficial because it enables the tracks  1340  to maintain hold of an imaging device or cassette when the patient support  1310  is lifted off the table  1400  and suspended in the frame  1200  of the trauma gurney  100 . Positioning an imaging device such as an x-ray cassette in this manner also beneficially decreases the object-to-image distance (OID) compared to a typical arrangement, which enables more effective imaging of the patient. 
     The tracks  1340  also ease the disengagement and re-engagement of the patient support  1310  from the frame  1200 . The mating ledge  1260  on the frame  1200  has a thickness which is thinner than the gap G 1  provided between the patient support  1310  and the receiving table  1400 . In other words, the height of the tracks  1340  is equal to the distance G 1 , which is greater than the thickness of the mating ledge  1260 . Thus, when the patient platform  1300  rests on a planar surface (e.g., the receiving table  1400 ), the frame  1200  can be disengaged from the patient platform  1300  by lowering the height of the frame  1200  so that the mating ledge  1260  is not in contact with the patient support  1310  or the receiving table  1400 . In some embodiments the height of the tracks  1340  and the gap G 1  is also greater than the thickness of the frame  1200 . The tracks  1340  also enable the frame  1200  to re-engage with the patient support  1310 . The gap G 1  provides a space for the mating ledge  1260  to maneuver under the patient support  1310 , and the frame  1200  can then move upward to reestablish contact between the patient platform  1300  and the frame  1200 . 
     As shown in  FIG. 19 , the illustrated patient platform also includes a shield  1320  which is typically positioned between the patient support  1310  and the pad  1330 . The shield  1320  is a separation barrier between the patient and a contact point of the patient support  1310  and the frame  1200 . Thus, the patient is protected from being injured in the pinch point between the frame  1200  and patient platform  1300 . The shield  1320  has a width that is greater than the bed width of the patient platform  1300 . 
     The shield  1320  can be folded around the patient to help with tube or device management and/or to prevent the patient from being pinched. The illustrated shield  1320  also includes handholds  1321  which can be used to position/adjust the patient on the trauma gurney  1000  or the receiving table  1400 . The handholds  1321  may also be used to lift the patient if necessary. The handholds  1321  also provide an additional benefit of providing a place for bundling bedding and patient extremities to prevent interference with the imaging tools. The shield may be constructed from non-magnetic and non-interfering materials. For example, the shield may be constructed from polyethylene or the like. 
     Trauma Gurney Functionality 
     Discussion will now be turned to the various capabilities of the trauma gurney  1000  and methods that may be used with the trauma gurney  100 .  FIGS. 23-29  illustrate non-limiting examples of the various capabilities and methods that may be employed with trauma gurney  1000 . 
       FIGS. 20A and 20B  illustrate that the trauma gurney  1000  is adjustable in height.  FIG. 20A  illustrates the frame  1200  lowered to its minimum height.  FIG. 20B  illustrates the frame  1200  raised to its maximum height.  FIG. 20A  also illustrated the rails  1251 ,  1252  in a lowered position and  FIG. 20B  illustrates the rails  1251 ,  1252  in a raised position. Also,  FIG. 20A  illustrates the patient platform  1300  in a flat position, and  FIG. 20B  illustrates the patient platform  1300  in a bent, upright position. 
       FIGS. 21A and 21B  illustrate that the trauma gurney can be adjusted in a tilt.  FIG. 21A  illustrates the trauma gurney  1000  in a reverse Trendelenburg position such that the upper portion  1301  is adjusted to a height that is greater than the height of the lower portion  1302 .  FIG. 21B  illustrates the trauma gurney  100  in a Trendelenburg position such that the upper portion  1301  is adjusted to a height that is less than the height of the lower portion  1302 . In other words, that patient&#39;s feet would be elevated above the patient&#39;s head. In other words, that patient&#39;s feet would be elevated above the patient&#39;s head. Often, the platform is positioned at about 15° up to about 30° or 40° from horizontal when in the Trendelenburg or reverse Trendelenburg position. 
     The range of rotation may be limited to prevent damage to the components of the adjustment mechanism, or to prevent the trauma gurney  1000  from being inadvertently adjusted to a position which causes the patient to fall out of the trauma gurney  1000 . In some instances, the range of rotation may be about +/−25° from horizontal, but more preferably +/−20° from horizontal or about +/−15° from horizontal. 
     Example Methods of Use 
     Discussion will now be turned to methods and steps that may be used to transfer a patient to a receiving table  1400  with the trauma gurney  1000 . Although the illustrated embodiments are described using a particular sequence of steps, it will be understood that certain steps may be performed in a different order so long as the overall function of positioning the patient platform on a receiving table and detaching it from the frame remain possible. 
       FIGS. 22A-22G  illustrate the trauma gurney  1000  at various steps of transferring a patient to a receiving table  1400 .  FIG. 23  illustrates a method  2900  that may be used to transfer the patient from the trauma gurney  1000  to a receiving table  1400 .  FIG. 22A  illustrates a patient P positioned on the trauma gurney  1000  (Step S 1 ) as it is being transported to the receiving table (Step S 2 ). During transport, the rails  1251 ,  1252  may be raised, and the lateral base members  114 ,  115  (if utilized) may be attached such that each lateral base member  114 ,  115  is connected to each of the base members  1110 ,  1120 . 
     Once the trauma gurney is near the receiving table  1400 , as illustrated in  FIG. 22B , the lateral base members  114 ,  115  are removed (step S 3 ). Thus, with the lateral base members  114 ,  115  removed, the trauma gurney can be moved over the receiving table  1400  unobstructed. In some implementations, lateral base members  114 ,  115  are omitted and thus their removal is not necessary. 
     The illustrated method also includes the step of adjusting the height of the trauma gurney so that the height of the trauma gurney  1000  is greater than the height of the receiving table  1400  (step S 4 ) if this is not the case already. The trauma gurney  1000  is then maneuvered over the receiving table  1400  (step S 5 ) as illustrated in  FIG. 22C . The shield  1320  may then be folded around the patient P, as illustrated in  FIG. 22D  (step S 6 ). The folded shield  1320  can help protect the patient P from the frame  1200 , for example, as the frame  1200  is lowered and moved away from the patient P. The shield may also be useful for tube management during the transfer and/or other use of the gurney. 
     The height of the frame  1200  is then lowered (by way of the adjustment mechanism  1130 ) such that the patient platform  1300  comes in contact with the receiving table  1400  and detaches from the frame, as shown in  FIG. 22E  (step S 7 ). The new, lowered height of the frame  1200  must be low enough to detach the patient platform  1300  from the frame  1200 , but high enough that the frame  1200  does not come in contact with the receiving table  1400 . In this manner, the frame  1200  can be maneuvered away from the receiving table, leaving the patient P and the patient platform  1300  behind. 
       FIG. 22F  illustrates the frame  1200  being moved away from the receiving table  1400  such that the patient platform  1300  remains on the receiving table  1400  (step S 8 ).  FIG. 22G  illustrates the patient P successfully transferred to the receiving table  1400 . 
     The patient P can then be transferred back to the trauma gurney  1000  by essentially reversing the foregoing steps. In an example implementation, the trauma gurney  1000  will be brought back to the receiving table  1400  where the patient P is positioned. The shield  1320  may be folded toward to the patient P to protect the patient from the moving parts of the trauma gurney  1000 . The height of the frame  1200  will be adjusted to a height that is lower than the patient platform  1300  but higher than the receiving table  1400 . The frame  1200  will then be moved over the receiving table  1400  and under the patient platform  1300 . The height of the frame will be adjusted upward such that the mating ledge  1260  and the mating channel  1311  contact each other and the patient platform  1300  is supported by the frame  1200 . The height of the frame  1200  will be adjusted to a height which is greater than the height of the receiving table  1400 . The trauma gurney  1000  will then be moved away from the receiving table  1400 , and each of the lateral base members  114 ,  115  (if utilized) will be attached to each of the base member  1110 ,  1120 . 
     Additional Terms &amp; Definitions 
     While certain embodiments of the present disclosure have been described in detail, with reference to specific configurations, parameters, components, elements, etcetera, the descriptions are illustrative and are not to be construed as limiting the scope of the claimed invention. Furthermore, it should be understood that for any given element of component of a described embodiment, any of the possible alternatives listed for that element or component may generally be used individually or in combination with one another, unless implicitly or explicitly stated otherwise. 
     In addition, unless otherwise indicated, numbers expressing quantities, constituents, distances, or other measurements used in the specification and claims are to be understood as optionally being modified by the term “about” or its synonyms. When the terms “about,” “approximately,” “substantially,” or the like are used in conjunction with a stated amount, value, or condition, it may be taken to mean an amount, value or condition that deviates by less than 20%, less than 10%, less than 5%, or less than 1% of the stated amount, value, or condition. At the very least, and not as an attempt to limit the application of the doctrine of equivalents to the scope of the claims, each numerical parameter should be construed in light of the number of reported significant digits and by applying ordinary rounding techniques. 
     Any headings and subheadings used herein are for organizational purposes only and are not meant to be used to limit the scope of the description or the claims. 
     It will also be noted that, as used in this specification and the appended claims, the singular forms “a,” “an” and “the” do not exclude plural referents unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Thus, for example, an embodiment referencing a singular referent (e.g., “widget”) may also include two or more such referents. 
     It will also be appreciated that embodiments described herein may include properties, features (e.g., ingredients, components, members, elements, parts, and/or portions) described in other embodiments described herein. Accordingly, the various features of a given embodiment can be combined with and/or incorporated into other embodiments of the present disclosure. Thus, disclosure of certain features relative to a specific embodiment of the present disclosure should not be construed as limiting application or inclusion of said features to the specific embodiment. Rather, it will be appreciated that other embodiments can also include such features.