Which immobilization device is most popular, despite its inconvenience, for head and neck treatments?

Thermoplastic masks are the most popular immobilization device for head and neck treatments due to their ability to provide a highly customizable and stable fit for patients. These masks are molded directly to the contours of the patient's face and neck, allowing for accurate positioning during radiation therapy. The precision they offer is crucial in ensuring that the treatment area is consistently targeted, minimizing the exposure of surrounding healthy tissues to radiation.

While thermoplastic masks may be perceived as inconvenient due to their rigidity and the initial discomfort experienced by patients during fitting, their effectiveness in maintaining head and neck immobilization throughout the treatment process makes them a preferred choice. The continuous immobilization reduces the variability in patient positioning, which is essential for achieving optimal treatment outcomes.

Other devices such as vacuum cushions, foam pads, and wedge devices serve specific purposes and can aid in immobilization, but they do not provide the same level of precision or stability for the complex anatomy of the head and neck. This is why thermoplastic masks hold a prominent position in clinical practice for such treatments.