Head Immobiliser Training

Slide the Hood Assembly over the Hood Support until it clicks into place. Make sure the hood film does not catch in the gap while sliding it into position.

Slide the Base Board between the mattress and imaging table.

For neuro imaging tables: align the bottom edge of the soft hood with the top edge of the mattress.

For standard tables: slide the full Base Board under the mattress so the top of the hood aligns with the mattress top.

For curved tables: place a foam pad or similar under the top of the board to support the gap.

Use a hair net if needed. Ensure long hair is flat against the back. Transfer the patient onto the table and align the top of their head with the bottom edge of the soft hood.

Use a downward sweeping motion to spread the beads around the inside of the hood. Fill each lobe while keeping enough beads at the base for support. This improves immobilisation and patient comfort.

An optional drape may be placed over the Hood Support at this stage.

After the beads are evenly distributed, slide the patient upward into the hood. Guide the head into position and gather the lobes around it. Make sure the ears are aligned with the gaps so the patient can still hear clearly.

While supporting the underside of the Hood Support with one hand, lift the lever to unlock. Adjust the hood height or rotate it up to 45° in either direction. Push the lever down to lock in place.

For neck flexion, lift the lever and raise the hood to its highest point (approx. 15°). A towel may be placed under the neck for support.

For neck extension, place a pillow under the shoulders to elevate the chest. Lower the hood to its lowest point for the correct angle.

Two people are required. One person should hold the hood firmly against the head while the other applies vacuum with the valve open. Evacuate for 10 seconds, then close the valve and remove the suction. The hood will stay firm throughout the procedure.

Pull the strap loosely across the forehead, making sure it doesn’t cover the eyes. Before starting the procedure, check for pressure points and confirm that the hood is adequately rigid.

If the procedure exceeds 2 hours, consider briefly releasing the vacuum to check for pressure areas, then reapply vacuum.

Remove the forehead strap and open the valve to release the vacuum.

Support the patient’s head with one hand, then slide the Base Board out from under the mattress.

Reach around the back of the Hood Assembly and locate the clip recesses. Gently lift the clips and slide the hood off.

Note: Components of the Base Board Assembly are not designed to be disassembled.

The STARBoard can be placed on top of the Head Immobiliser Base Board and beneath the mattress for radial access. STARTable can be added in its usual position.

The Adducted Arm Scoops can be used with the Head Immobiliser by placing them above the Base Board and under the mattress.

The Retrograde IR Platform can also be used during femoral access. Its base board sits under the patient’s thighs, with the platform placed over the patient and locked into position.