Patent ID: 7676255

Claim:
A medical imaging system having a patient support apparatus comprising: a framework portion; a kit of rigid modular patient support panels, constructed of material having a radiation attenuation coefficient less than that of metals, the panels in selective sub-combination assembly being removably mounted to and supported by the framework portion and defining varying surface profiles, including selective gaps there between, capable of conforming a patient placed in contact with the surface profile in a range of supported body positions from supine to seated, including: a first set of at least one panel for supporting a patient during a first imaging study by the medical imaging system, wherein the at least one panel of the first set of at least one panel has a gap defined therein and a non-supportive panel insert supported thereby that is positioned within the gap, and further wherein the panel insert has a lower radiation attenuation coefficient than the at least one panel of the first set of at least one panel; and a second set of at least one panel replacing the first set of at least one panel and supporting the patient during a second imaging study by the medical imaging system.