What is a consequence of errors in patient marking during CT simulator procedures?

Errors in patient marking during CT simulator procedures can have serious consequences, with one of the most significant being the potential for an increased dose of radiation to nearby critical structures. Accurate patient marking is crucial in radiation therapy as it ensures that the radiation beams are directed precisely to the intended tumor while sparing surrounding healthy tissues. When markings are incorrect, it can lead to misalignment between the treatment plan and the patient’s anatomy, potentially resulting in unintended irradiation of critical structures, which can cause acute and long-term complications.

Accurate patient positioning and marking are essential components of effective treatment planning as they help establish the correct target volume and the boundaries for radiation delivery. If errors occur, the risk of overdosing critical areas may lead to severe side effects or complications, affecting the patient's overall health and treatment outcomes. Thus, maintaining precise and proper patient marking is foundational to achieving safe and effective radiation therapy.