The CT Simulator is used to determine the area of the body that will be treated. A felt pen is used to draw reference marks for your treatment. The reference marks will either be drawn on your skin or on your mask (if you have one). The reference markings will be used by the Radiation Therapists to position you for your treatments.

The CT Simulator is similar in appearance to a diagnostic CT scanner. However, the CT simulation procedure is somewhat different than a diagnostic scan. Before you have the simulation scan, a Radiation Therapist will draw reference markings on your skin (or mask). For some treatments, small permanent tattoo marks are made. You will be required to lie very still and breathe normally. It is very important that you do not move once the markings are on your skin (or mask). Even lifting your arm or turning your head can change the location of the markings. The entire procedure will take approximately 30 - 40 minutes. At the end of your simulation you will be provided with further instructions regarding the start of your treatments.

We have a variety of radiation therapy treatment machines. They are:

Cobalt

Most people have heard of this type of radiation therapy machine. The radiation is produced by a radioactive source (Cobalt-60). The source is inside the treatment machine. Cobalt machines are used for external radiation therapy. When the machine is turned "on" or "off" you will hear a loud "swoosh" or "bang" sound.

Linear Accelerators

All the Linear Accelerators that we have are very similar in operation and appearance. They use man-made technology to produce radiation. The main difference between these machines is the energy (for depth of treatment) that they produce. These machines are used for external radiation therapy. The machines just hum when turned "on".

Superficial X-ray Therapy

This machine is smaller and produces a lower energy than the others. It is used to treat areas close to the skin surface. Unlike the other machines, this one will gently touch your skin during treatment. This machine is used for external treatment. You will hear a humming sound when the machine is "on".

Brachytherapy

This machine is used for internal treatment. A small tube is inserted into a body cavity. The machine contains a small radioactive seed which travels inside the tube, to deliver radiation to the tumour.