Radiotherapy masks are medical devices that ensure precise positioning and immobilization of patients undergoing radiation therapy treatment. However, the process of making a mask varies slightly among hospitals. Here’s the comparison of the effect of two normal ways of stretching masks.

Operation method 1:

When molding a Head and Neck mask, gently press the thermoplastic down, withhold the chin until the mask with the pins aligned to the holes in the baseplate.

Operation method 2:

Directly pull the mask over the patient’s face around the sides and top of his head.

Effect comparison:

Operation method 1:The pictures show on the left side;

Operation method 2: The pictures show on the right side;

Below are the differences between the two mask-making methods.

1. For the front of head area:

The picture on the left side shows smaller edge perforation, which esnures enough thickness for patient immobilization.

2. For Side of the head:

The left image looks smaller perforation of the edge, which ensures enough thickness for patient immobilization.

3. Forehead area : The left picture indicates more evenly perforation is evenly on the left side

4. Face :  perforation stretch more evenly on the left side.

Concluding: Operation method 1 ( Back Pulling) is more recommended for clinical applications to obtain better patient positioning.

INSTRUCTIONS FOR USE

Heating:

• Heat the mask for 2-3 minutes in a 70℃ Water Bath, do not exceed 15 minutes. ( If using Oven, do not exceed 10 minutes.)

Molding:

• Position the mask over the patient’s face. Press the thermoplastic until the outer frame touches the baseplate, with the pins aligned to the holes in the baseplate.

• Gently and quickly mold the thermoplastic to the patient's contours with your fingers.

• Finishing mold the mask as soon as possible within the operating time, if the mask has signs of hardening, reheat it before use. Allow 15 minutes for full cooling before removing the mask.

• Do not overstretch the edge of the mask in the case for rolling edges.

Removing：

• Ensure that the mask is rigid and has cooled completely. Removing the mask too soon may result in excessive shrinkage and patient discomfort when refitting.

• Release the pins from the baseplate by pulling them up.

• Remove the mask from the patient.

• If desired, treatment portals can be cut into the mask using heavy shears or a cast cutter.