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During the initial simulation process, you can expect your appointment to take approximately an hour. You will meet with the radiation therapists who work closely with the radiation oncologist. Using CT imaging, along with aids such as skin tattoos, photographs and immobilization devices, our team of professionals will gather all the necessary information to ensure that your position is reproducible for treatments on a daily basis.
Once all the treatment information has been obtained, the radiation oncology nurse will discuss care related to your upcoming radiation treatments, let you know about supportive services available at CVMC, and answer any additional questions or concerns that you and/or your family may have.
CT Simulation
Patients are imaged on a CT scanner specially configured to acquire three dimensional images used for treatment planning. The CT scanner allows the radiation oncologist to localize the tumor and surrounding areas that will require radiation treatments.
Our Toshiba Large Bore Acquilion CT Simulator is the largest bore of its kind in Vermont. This increases patient comfort and allows for more diversity in positioning patients for their radiation treatments.
Permanent Skin Markings
Once the patient’s position is determined, tattoo ink dots (the size of a freckle) may be applied to the patient’s skin to identify the area for treatment. Photographs of the treatment area are also taken to further document positioning so that the radiation therapist can accurately reproduce the position throughout the course of treatment.
Immobilization Devices
During the simulation process, immobilization devices may be produced to stabilize specific anatomical body parts and reduce patient movement during treatment. It is critical that patients remain in the same position throughout the entire treatment in order to ensure accuracy and minimize the amount of healthy tissue within the radiation beam path.
Types of Immobilization Devices
Examples of immobilization devices include breast-boards, head-frames, vacuum bags for thoracic/pelvic support, and face masks.
Head, Neck, and Shoulder
If you are receiving radiation to your brain, head or neck, a mask may be used to hold the area still. The mask is made from a type of plastic that is softened with heat and molded to fit the patient’s face. The mask becomes firm once it cools to room temperature. Other types of cushions and positioning devices may also be used to ensure stability and comfort.
Chest, Abdomen and Pelvic
If you are receiving radiation to an area in the chest, abdomen or pelvic area, a custom mold may be made to provide stability, reproducibility, and comfort. The radiation therapists will help position the area being treated on top of the soft mold then air will be suctioned out of the mold, creating a firm mold that is custom fitted to your unique anatomy. Other devices, such as arm rests or knee cushions, may be used as well.
(Photos: Civco Medical Solutions)