Temporary marks are an important part of CT simulation, allowing for accurate and reproducible set-ups for treatment.
However, temporary marks are only helpful if they stay on the patient. Otherwise, the patient will need to be re-simulated before receiving or continuing treatment.
According to Phyllis Burch, Administrative Director, City of Hope Radiation Oncology (Duarte, CA), “If we can reduce the times that we are re-simulating patients due to either lost marks, or even the surgical tape coming off and really having to re-identify those markings to ensure accuracy, I feel that in itself is a really high cost savings to the department.”
Covering temporary marks is a common way to avoid re-simulating patients
Some departments use surgical tape or wound dressing products to cover temporary marks. However, as Ms. Burch pointed out, this method of cutting strips of tape can be time consuming and produce waste.
In addition, surgical tape rarely stays on the skin for more than a couple days and is prone to causing skin irritation.
A low-cost insurance plan against re-simulating the patient
PointGuards® temporary mark covers are a fast and convenient way to protect the patient’s temporary marks from disappearing.
With a watertight seal that stays securely in place for up to 4 weeks, patients do not have to alter their routine or their daily living: “I do my normal routine,” says Elaine, a breast cancer patient from New London, CT. “I shower, go out, take my walks, sweat in the sun, and I don’t even know they’re there. They feel like part of my skin.”
Learn more about 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 Business Development Manager at 1-800-233-5539 or +1-860-583-4700.
