Oven makes mask moulding less stressful for patients at QEHB

Earlier this year, the mould room at Queen Elizabeth Hospital Birmingham took delivery of a RapidHeat Oven, supplied by Oncology Imaging Systems (OIS), which quickly reaches working temperatures for heating Aquaplast RT and Fibreplast thermoplastics to reduce mask-making time.

Chief technologist and mould room manager Jason Bode said of the department’s experience: “All in all, the transition from the water bath to the RapidHeat Oven has been smooth and seamless. The patient tolerates this technique better and we find it is less traumatic for an already nervous patient.”

Bode says initial response from staff was that it was a significant improvement when it came to the handling and pre-stretch experience. “The material was dry and seemingly cooler to the touch when draping and moulding onto the patient. Working time for the thermoplastic also improved, meaning that there was no rush to shape and mould the mask when placed over the head and neck. The autonomy relieves staff to concentrate on the patient, knowing the mask will be consistent in quality.”

Feedback from patients has been positive, with one patient commenting: “That was actually quite relaxing, it felt like a warm cloth was being placed on my face.”

The RapidHeat Oven’s design allows the hot oven air to envelop the thermoplastic mask, so that it softens quickly and evenly. The time can be set for different masks and Aquaplast RT Custom Bolus. The oven can be pre-heated while the patient is prepared and the digital display includes a timer, alerting staff when it is ready.

OIS supplies products and solutions used in diagnostic imaging, radiotherapy treatment and medical physics applications.

Picture: OIS supplies the RapidHeat Oven.

Published on page 9 of the September 2021 issue of RAD Magazine.