Name of the Procedure:

Therapeutic Radiology Simulation-Aided Field Setting; Intermediate

Summary

This procedure involves using imaging technology to accurately plan and configure the treatment fields for radiation therapy. It ensures that the radiation is precisely targeted to treat cancer or other conditions while minimizing exposure to surrounding healthy tissues.

Purpose

The primary goal is to deliver effective radiation therapy with maximum accuracy. This helps in treating tumors, reducing their size, or eliminating cancer cells while protecting normal tissues from excessive radiation.

Indications

• Presence of a tumor or malignancy requiring radiation therapy.
• Patients diagnosed with cancers that are treatable with radiotherapy.
• Conditions like lymphoma, breast cancer, prostate cancer, and head and neck cancers.

Preparation

• Patients may need to undergo imaging studies such as CT scans, MRI, or PET scans for detailed visualization.
• It's important to follow specific instructions regarding fasting or medication adjustments as provided by your healthcare provider.
• Inform the medical team about any allergies or current medications.

Procedure Description

1. The patient is positioned on the simulation table in a stable and reproducible position.
2. Immobilization devices might be used to ensure consistent positioning in future therapy sessions.
3. Imaging studies (CT, MRI, etc.) are performed to capture detailed anatomical structures.
4. Data from the scans are used to delineate the treatment field and plan the radiation dose distribution.
5. The radiation oncologist and medical dosimetrist work together to finalize the precise treatment plan.
6. Skin markers or tattoo dots may be placed to guide future radiation treatments.

Duration

The simulation procedure typically takes about 30 minutes to 1 hour.

Setting

The procedure is performed in a hospital's radiology or oncology department, or in a specialized outpatient radiology center.

Personnel

• Radiation oncologist
• Medical dosimetrist
• Radiologic technologist
• Nursing staff for support

Risks and Complications

• Minimal risk associated with imaging studies, such as exposure to low doses of radiation from a CT scan.
• Rarely, allergic reactions to contrast agents used in imaging tests.
• Discomfort from lying still or use of immobilization devices.

Benefits

• Enhanced precision and effectiveness of subsequent radiation therapy sessions.
• Reduced risk of damage to healthy surrounding tissues.
• Improved treatment outcomes and potentially quicker recovery times.

Recovery

• Generally, this simulation procedure does not require recovery time.
• Patients can usually resume normal activities immediately.
• Follow-up radiation therapy sessions as planned by the treatment schedule.

Alternatives

• Other imaging-based planning methods, though they may be less precise.
• Surgery or chemotherapy, depending on the cancer type and stage.
• Each alternative has its own risks and benefits, which should be discussed with the healthcare provider.

Patient Experience

• The patient may feel slight discomfort from the immobilization devices.
• Usually painless, though some patients might experience anxiety from remaining still.
• Comfort measures, such as calming music or a relaxed environment, are often provided.