Training program impact on thermoplastic immobilization for head and neck radiation therapy
Data(s) |
01/02/2013
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Resumo |
Purpose: To determine whether uniform guidelines and training in the stabilization and formation of thermoplastic shells can improve the reproducibility of set-up for Head and Neck cancer patients. Methods and materials: Image based measurements of the planning and treatment positions for 35 head and neck cancer patients undergoing radical radiotherapy were analysed to provide a baseline of the reproducibility of thermoplastic immobilization. Radiation therapists (RT) were surveyed to establish a perception of their confidence in thermoplastic procedures. An evidence based staff training program was created and implemented. Set-up reproduction and staff perception were reviewed to measure the impact of the training program. Results: The mean (SD) 3D vectors of anatomical displacement, measured on the patient images, improved from 4.64 (2.03) for the baseline group compared to 3.02 (1.65) following training (p < 0.01). The proportion of 3D displacements of patient data exceeding 5 mm 3D vector was decreased from 37.1% to 5.7% (p < 0.001) and the 3 mm vector from 85.7% to 42.9% (p < 0.001). The post-training survey scores demonstrated improved confidence in reproducibility of set-up for head and neck patients. Conclusion: The Thermoplastic Shells Training Program has been found to improve the treatment reproducibility for head and neck radiation therapy patients. Uniform guidelines have increased RT confidence in thermoplastic procedures. |
Identificador | |
Publicador |
Elsevier |
Relação |
DOI:10.1016/j.radi.2012.09.003 Outhwaite, Julie-Anne, McDowall, Robert, Marquart, Loiuse, Rattray, Gregory, Fielding, Andrew, & Hargrave, Catriona E. (2013) Training program impact on thermoplastic immobilization for head and neck radiation therapy. Radiography, 19(1), pp. 28-34. |
Direitos |
Copyright 2013 Elsevier |
Fonte |
School of Chemistry, Physics & Mechanical Engineering; School of Clinical Sciences; Faculty of Health; Institute of Health and Biomedical Innovation; Science & Engineering Faculty |
Palavras-Chave | #111208 Radiation Therapy #Set-up reproducibility #Stabilization #Radiotherapy #Radiation oncology #Evidence based training |
Tipo |
Journal Article |