A literature review on immobilisation and the impact this has on patients of all ages
Immobilisation in Radiotherapy: Challenges and Considerations for Patients with Physical Disabilities
Introduction:
Radiotherapy is a vital treatment for various cancers, often involving precise delivery of radiation to a specific area. Immobilisation, the process of securing patients in a specific position, is crucial for accurate treatment delivery and minimising dose to healthy tissues. However, patients with physical disabilities present unique challenges in immobilisation, potentially impacting treatment efficacy and patient experience.
Challenges of Immobilisation for Patients with Physical Disabilities:
- Limited mobility: Difficulty assuming or maintaining required positions due to muscle weakness, contractures, or pain can be a significant hurdle.
- Compromised positioning aids: Standard immobilisation devices, like masks or vacuum cushions, may not fit or accommodate specific physical limitations.
- Increased discomfort and pain: Existing disabilities may be exacerbated by immobilisation procedures, leading to discomfort and potentially hindering cooperation.
- Psychological distress: The inability to move freely during treatment can cause anxiety and claustrophobia in some patients.
Impact on Different Age Groups:
- Children: Ensuring cooperation and immobility in children with disabilities can be challenging. Specialised equipment, playful distractions, and parental involvement are crucial for successful treatment.
- Adults: Concerns similar to the general population apply, additionally considering the potential impact on work and daily activities due to increased treatment time or discomfort.
- Older adults: Pre-existing conditions and age-related limitations may require adaptations in immobilisation techniques and increased attention to patient comfort.
Strategies for Effective Immobilisation:
- Multidisciplinary collaboration: Communication between radiation therapists, therapists, and engineers can lead to creative solutions and individually tailored immobilisation devices.
- Patient-centered approach: Involving patients in decision-making and addressing their specific needs and concerns is essential for improving cooperation and reducing anxiety.
- Alternative immobilisation techniques: Exploring options such as customized headrests, supports for specific body parts, or vacuum cushions with modified shapes can improve comfort and effectiveness.
- Psychological support: Addressing potential anxieties and offering resources such as relaxation techniques or medication can improve patient experience.
Conclusion:
Patients with physical disabilities require specific considerations in radiotherapy immobilisation to ensure accurate treatment delivery, minimize discomfort, and optimize the overall experience. Multidisciplinary collaboration, patient-centered approaches, and exploring alternative techniques are crucial to achieve successful radiation therapy for this diverse patient population.
Further Research:
- Exploring innovative immobilisation techniques specifically designed for patients with various physical disabilities.
- Investigating the impact of different immobilisation strategies on treatment outcomes and patient satisfaction.
- Developing guidelines and best practices for immobilisation in this patient population.
It's important to note that this is a brief overview and further research is necessary to explore the specific challenges and solutions for immobilisation in different types of physical disabilities and within each age group.