The challenge every radiation oncology department faces is to destroy cancer cells and stop the growth of the tumor while limiting harm to nearby healthy tissue.
Accuracy is measured in millimeters, and the precision of the CT simulation will affect subsequent treatments. Consequently, the quality of each tool the radiation therapist uses in set-ups and treatment planning will make a difference.
Linear markers are such tools.
Used to mark field borders, tangents, scars, sarcomas, and breast tissue, one should expect their linear marker to be flexible, contour to the skin, and clearly denote the area of concern in imaging and CT simulation without lifting or coming off. Linear markers without these key attributes can negatively affect the accuracy and efficacy of the treatment.
Some linear markers are made of inflexible wires and are often cut into small strips for better handling. Not only is this process of cutting several small strips time consuming and wasteful, it can also result in unintended inaccuracies when marking field borders and treatment areas - or even over or under radiation of the target area.
Radiation therapists find that using tape and wire to define field borders does not provide the desired flexibility nor the appropriate accuracy for treatment set-up. Tape sticks to the skin with the wire caught underneath.
Beekley Medical's CT-SPOT® lines can help overcome these challenges for more targeted placement and first time accuracy.
Specifically designed for CT treatment set-up, these flexible linear markers contour easily around corners and are ideal for marking field borders, tangents, scars, sarcomas, and larger treatment areas.
A medical-grade, latex-free adhesive backing provides the “just right” stick that radiation therapists value and the non-metallic line images brightly on every slice it appears appears on during simulation with reduced artifact and streaking that is typically seen with wire markers - making it easier for the therapist or radiation oncologist to measure and align the marker with the desired area of treatment.
For more tips on how Beekley Medical can help you achieve greater precision, accuracy, and patient care, download your copy of "Solutions to Daily Challenges in Radiation Oncology" or contact your Radiation Oncology Business Development Manager at 1-800-233-5539 or +1-860-583-4700.
Related articles:
Jonathan McCullough
Product Manager
