ESTRO ACROP guidelines for positioning, immobilisation and position verification of head and neck patients for radiation therapists

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE: Over the last decade, the management of locally advanced head and neck cancers (HNCs) has seen a substantial increase in the use of chemoradiation. These guidelines have been developed to assist Radiation TherapisTs (RTTs) in positioning, immobilisation and position verification for head and neck cancer patients. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A critical review of the literature was undertaken by the writing committee. Based on the literature review, a survey was developed to ascertain the current positioning, immobilisation and position verification methods for head and neck radiation therapy across Europe. The survey was translated into Italian, German, Greek, Portuguese, Russian, Croatian, French and Spanish. Guidelines were subsequently developed by the writing committee. RESULTS: Results from the survey indicated that a wide variety of treatment practices and treatment verification protocols are in operation for head and neck cancer patients across Europe currently. The guidelines developed are based on the experience and expertise of the writing committee, remaining cognisant of the variations in imaging and immobilisation techniques used currently in Europe. CONCLUSIONS: These guidelines have been developed to provide RTTs with guidance on positioning, immobilisation and position verification of HNC patients. The guidelines will also provide RTTs with the means to critically reflect on their own daily clinical practice with this patient group.