Thermoplastic radiotherapy mask

Thermoplastic mesh mask used to hold Roger Pebody’s head in a fixed position during radiotherapy treatment for throat cancer at Guy’s Hospital, London, UK, 2017

Shortly after being diagnosed with throat cancer in his forties, Roger Pebody began six weeks of intensive treatment, including radiotherapy. People who need radiotherapy to the head or neck wear a tailor-made mask to keep them still during treatment. This allows radiation to be targeted directly at the cancerous cells while minimising damage to the surrounding healthy tissue.

This type of mask is made from a flexible plastic mesh, which is heated in a water bath before being stretched over the patient’s face and shoulders and left to set for around six minutes. Once hardened, the patient undergoes a CT scan, from which their radiation treatment is planned. The mask is subsequently worn throughout their treatment to ensure the dose is targeted as accurately as possible. Moulds can also be produced by taking a plaster of Paris and/or dental alginate cast of the treatment area, from which a Perspex shell is created.

Like many people undergoing radiotherapy for head and neck cancers, Roger experienced claustrophobia while wearing the mask and was concerned about the side effects of treatment. Radiotherapy to the neck can affect saliva production, making it difficult to eat and drink. Roger drew on the support of his partner, Jean-Michel, and close friends throughout his illness. Playing his own music during radiotherapy sessions, and knowing that treatment for this kind of cancer is often successful, helped him manage the discomfort.