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Patient Alignment and Digital Imaging
Taking advantage of the precise nature of proton therapy requires an equally
precise method of patient alignment and verification.
Therapy begins by creating a full-body immobilization device that provides a
precise and consistent location for each therapy session, while the patient
remains comfortable.
Once immobilized in the treatment position, the patient may undergo a CT scan,
MRI, or PET scan during the treatment planning phase. These images are used to
create a "digitally reconstructed radiograph" or DRR, which is compared with
digitally captured x-rays taken just before treatment begins. When these images
are compared, doctors can precisely position each patient for treatment.
During the treatment planning phase, physicians locate the cancerous (or target)
region and any normal tissue that may be radiosensitive. Computers aid this
process by providing three-dimensional simulation to help optimize treatment.
The Digitally Reconstructed Radiograph (DRR), created in treatment planning,
helps align the patient with the assistance of Optivus' Digital Imaging System
or DIS.
The Digital Imaging System electronically captures, manipulates, and stores
x-ray images using a sophisticated software and hardware network.
Using the Digital Imaging System, physicians compare the location of the patient
as he or she should be (as determined by the DRR) with their actual location in
the treatment room. The DIS reports discrepancies between these two images
through software. The technicians then adjust the patient's position relative to
the beam nozzle. Additional digitally-captured x-rays are captured to confirm
the patient's correct position, or to make additional changes as needed.
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