17 July 2008 - The Mould Room

Example of thermoplastic mask.

The head and neck area is one of the most difficult areas to keep still, even for a short period of time; because of this your Consultant Clinical Oncologist will probably have asked that you have an appointment in the mould room for a close fitting mask to be made.

The mask enables you to maintain your position during treatment, which is essential, as treatment needs to be extremely accurate. Additionally, the mask allows us to make planning reference marks on the mask rather than on your face and neck.

How is the mask made?
The mask is made from a thermoplastic mesh material (called Orfit®), which becomes pliable when placed in warm water allowing it to mould directly to your shape. The material is placed on your skin, and has a hole for your nose or mouth. It cools rapidly and sets firm to remain in the shape to which it has been moulded. The procedure is not painful and only takes 5 minutes to mould to your features. And we can keep the mask at the end of the treatment.

You will be asked to remove jewellery, such as earrings and necklaces, so you may prefer to leave them at home when you come for your appointment. Please note that this also applies for all your following appointments too as you will be required to wear the mask.

Patients are often given an appointment for the Simulator at the same time so that x-ray pictures can be taken to ensure that you are in the correct position within the mask. This is called a pre-mould screen.