Recommendations to take into account for the day of the simulation ct scan, initiation and treatment:
- Ask your radiation oncologist if you will have a simulation CT scan with contrast.
- CT is usually performed without contrast, so you can eat before the study.
- Radiation treatment does not require you to go without food, unless explicitly indicated by the physician.
- On the day of the simulation, start and treatment, you should not come with makeup on your face.
- Radiation treatment does not require you to be fasting, unless explicitly indicated by the physician.
- You should not bring earrings, chains or piercings.
- If you have dentures, they must be removed.
- If your treatment required a special custom mask, DO NOT cut your hair, because the mask may be loose.
- Remember that you will NOT become radioactive with this treatment.
What does simulation CT consist of?
From the initial consultation with the radiation oncologist and, after you agree to receive radiation treatment, the next step is the completion of the simulation CT scan, which will be used as a “map” for the treatment you will receive.
This procedure does not administer radiation treatment, but allows the radiation therapy staff to obtain images that are transferred to the computer where we identify the healthy organs and the tumor.
How is tac simulation performed?
You will be summoned by telephone to come to the Radiation Oncology Department for the simulation CT scan.
Once in the CT room, you will be asked to lie down on the equipment table. During the simulation, the conditions under which the treatment will be performed are established or chosen, determining the area to be treated and the position of your head to receive the radiation.
In some cases, it is necessary to use devices to immobilize your body, such as, for example, supports on your back, special cushions adaptable to your body, or a special custom-made mask that adjusts to the contour of your head.
These devices will allow you to always position yourself in the same posture, reducing your movements, which ensures that the treatment area is similar to the “map” previously made.
Although the simulation can be lengthy, it does not include any painful procedures or maneuvers. In simulation, marks are made on the skin and mask to identify treatment areas. The room is periodically darkened while these marks are placed and guided by lasers mounted on the wall and ceiling.
What happens after the simulation CT?
After the CT scan is taken, the staff in charge will make the treatment plan. When everything is ready to begin, you will be notified by phone of the day and time to come in to verify the planned “map” and start your treatment; this is known as the “start”. On that day you will be assigned a schedule for the treatment sessions indicated by your radiation oncologist.
