Training programme impact on thermoplastic immobilization for head and neck radiation therapy

Effects of remedies made in patient setup process on residual setup errors and margins in head and neck cancer radiotherapy based on 2D image guidance

“…13 Some improvements have previously been proposed to increase accuracy of patient setup. 9,14,15 Training of staff in Table 3 -Differences in residual position errors of the landmarks after the described improvements made in the patient setup process (current − previous result, mm). Changes in the van Herk margins (3D) are given in the parenthesis.…”

“…mask formation has been shown to reduce overall 3D setup errors from 4.6 to 3.0 mm. 9 In addition, making of tattoo marks on patient's chest has been demonstrated to reduce setup errors significantly. 14 In this study, the weak points in the mask formation process were sought after and the efficacy of the remedies made was proven to reduce position errors of several bony landmarks.…”

“…8 Previously Outhwaite et al have reported that setup reproducibility for H&N patients has improved after training and improved guidelines for patient immobilization. 9…”

Examination of the dosimetric effects of the headrest used in radiotherapy by different algorithms

“…These treatment modalities are preferred to ensure local control of the tumour and to reduce the side effects that may occur in the patient, due to scattered radiation. Geometric errors that may occur in the setup of the head and neck region can significantly affect the treatment (Outhwaite et al 2013). In the treatment of patients with head and neck cancer, thermoplastic masks and headrests are frequently used to restrict the movement of a patient and provide comfortable laying during the treatment (Oulhouq et al 2019;Kang et al 2011).…”