Patient imagination is the only limit for radiotherapy mask designs
Radiotherapy staff at the Beatson West of Scotland Cancer Centre are adding some fun to the intimidating process of treatment by decorating thermoplastic masks for children. This has proved very successful and children now look forward to being fitted with their own special mask. Based at Glasgow’s Gartnavel campus, the Beatson has been using Klarity masks supplied by Vertec Scientific for around eight years, choosing Klarity white popper lockdown head and neck masks and head-only masks.
Pictured in the mould room are clinical technologists Hilary Sturrock and Fiona McCulloch. Every child who is treated at the centre uses their imagination to create a personal design, which can include fictional cartoon characters, music icons, animals and mythical creatures. Sturrock said: “We don’t have a catalogue of designs, but are inspired and challenged by the incredible creativity of the patient.” Children are able to take their personal mask home as a keepsake.
Published on the front page of the September 2019 issue of RAD Magazine.
