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Eye holes in a radiation mask?

HenW
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Hi

I've been to have my mask fitted today and I'm very claustrophobic. I thought because the mask has holes I would be ok. However, no one said that I wouldn't be able to have my eyes open and I really struggled with that. In fact I didn't manage to get through the CT scan.

I asked if I could have eye holes cut out and they said no. Said that the accuracy wouldn't be a good. However I've been researching this and I can't see anything that says this is the case as long as the whole mask is tight. 

I'm having the right side of my face and neck treated.

Having my eyes open well make a big difference to my being able to get through the treatment.

Is this reasonable to ask for?

Thank you

Parents

  • Hi there and thanks for the post

    I am sorry to hear about your situation and appreciate how difficult the radiotherapy masks can be for patients.

    Unfortunately the radiographers have to follow strict protocols to ensure your safety as well as to make sure the radiotherapy is targeted precisely. I would however suggest speaking with them again to see if there is anything else that can be done to make this treatment more bearable for you.

    As bilfury has already said the radiotherapy treatment sessions themselves are normally only a couple of minutes in duration, it is the planning and work up beforehand that can be time consuming.

    I hope you are able to find a way through this together with the radiotherapy team.

    Please get back if needed or if you prefer to talk over the phone, our number is 0808 800 4040 and we're here weekdays ( except bank holidays) 9-5.

    All the best

    Naomi

Reply

  • Hi there and thanks for the post

    I am sorry to hear about your situation and appreciate how difficult the radiotherapy masks can be for patients.

    Unfortunately the radiographers have to follow strict protocols to ensure your safety as well as to make sure the radiotherapy is targeted precisely. I would however suggest speaking with them again to see if there is anything else that can be done to make this treatment more bearable for you.

    As bilfury has already said the radiotherapy treatment sessions themselves are normally only a couple of minutes in duration, it is the planning and work up beforehand that can be time consuming.

    I hope you are able to find a way through this together with the radiotherapy team.

    Please get back if needed or if you prefer to talk over the phone, our number is 0808 800 4040 and we're here weekdays ( except bank holidays) 9-5.

    All the best

    Naomi

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