What is a benefit of using patient immobilization devices?

Using patient immobilization devices primarily benefits patient care by ensuring reproducible patient positioning during radiation therapy treatments. Consistent positioning is crucial for effective treatment delivery, as it minimizes variability that might arise from slight changes in patient body alignment between treatment sessions. This reproducibility helps in accurately targeting the tumor while sparing healthy surrounding tissue from unnecessary radiation exposure.

The other options do not reflect the primary goals of patient immobilization. Increased discomfort for the patient is contrary to the purpose of these devices, which are designed to stabilize and support the patient in a comfortable manner during treatment. Reducing the number of treatment sessions is not directly influenced by the use of immobilization devices; the number of sessions is generally determined by the treatment protocol rather than the positioning technique. Lastly, while some immobilization devices may be cost-effective, the primary goal is patient safety and treatment efficacy, rather than material costs.