What should I do if I feel claustrophobic or start to panic? How was the thermoplastic mask introduced into radiation therapy? The Sighing Method This is a relaxing method for releasing tension in the muscles of your upper body. It can help to reduce your feelings of anxiety or panic. Moderately inhale through your nose (not deeply) and then very slowly exhale through your nose or mouth. Specials masks are available for patients who may be nervous or anxious. Ask your therapist about these options. Early positioning and immobilization aids consisted of sandbags, foam sponges, rolled linen and masking tape. Patients were positioned on the treatment table with these aids, then anatomical landmarks and body planes were used to establish a reproducible position. However, these aids did not meet the technical accuracy for all treatment techniques. Therefore, investigation of new methods and materials started improving patient positioning. Sandbags and rolled linen were replaced with contoured styrofoam head and neck rests. Varied sizes were evaluated and a common set was established and manufactured in hard foam covered with rubber. However, there was still room for improvement. Thermoplastic was discovered from occupational therapy and integrated into radiation therapy for head and neck contoured masks attached to standard bases with use of the headrests. Positioning lasers added to the improved accuracy in treatment positioning reproducibility. Easy Breathing Method Maintain an easy breathing pattern, stay relaxed and comfortable. Pay attention to your breathing and how your body moves when you breath. Concentrate on your inhale, then pause for a second and release a natural exhale, followed by a pause. Listen to your breathing and don’t allow your mind to wander. This will allow you to gain control over your thoughts and keep from panicking. Committed to Positively Impacting Patient Care COPYRIGHT © 2015. CIVCO IS A REGISTERED TRADEMARK OF CIVCO MEDICAL SOLUTIONS. ALL OTHER TRADEMARKS ARE PROPERTY OF THEIR RESPECTIVE OWNERS. ALL PRODUCTS MAY NOT BE LICENSED IN ACCORDANCE WITH CANADIAN LAW. 2015P1016 REV. A Thermoplastics Patient Education

You and your physician have chosen radiation therapy as part of your cancer treatment. There are a variety of tools used by a radiation therapist to assist in your treatment. One of these tools, a thermoplastic mask, will be explained in greater detail here. Be sure to contact your radiation therapist or nurse if you have any questions. Why is it necessary to use a thermoplastic mask? To achieve the most successful radiation therapy treatment, it is important to have the radiation beam hit the tumor every time, while sparing as many healthy cells around the tumor as possible. To achieve this,...