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Deep Inspiration Breath Hold for left-sided breast cancer: experience from the patient’s perspective

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  29 June 2015

Neil Mc Parland ,
Luminita Nica ,
Jenny Soo  and
Tara Menna
Neil Mc Parland*
Affiliation:
Radiation Therapy Department, Vancouver Cancer Center, British Columbia Cancer Agency, Vancouver, BC, Canada
Luminita Nica
Affiliation:
Radiation Therapy Department, Vancouver Cancer Center, British Columbia Cancer Agency, Vancouver, BC, Canada
Jenny Soo
Affiliation:
Radiation Therapy Department, Vancouver Cancer Center, British Columbia Cancer Agency, Vancouver, BC, Canada
Tara Menna
Affiliation:
Radiation Therapy Department, Vancouver Cancer Center, British Columbia Cancer Agency, Vancouver, BC, Canada
*
Correspondence to: Neil Mc Parland, Radiation Therapy Department, Vancouver Cancer Center, 600 West 10th Avenue, V5Z 4E6, Vancouver, BC, Canada. Tel: (604) 877 6000 ext 2710; E-mail: Neilmcparland@hotmail.com
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Abstract

Introduction

The dosimetric benefits of Deep Inspiration Breath Hold (DIBH) in reducing cardiac dose are well documented, however reports on the patient’s personal experience with this technique are limited. The purpose of this research is to investigate DIBH from the patient’s perspective and to provide recommendations to further improve the patient experience.

Materials and methods

A questionnaire was used to record the patient’s comprehension of DIBH instructions and preparation for treatment. Levels of comfort, confidence and technical challenge were also recorded and an open-format question allowed patients to provide suggestions to improve the DIBH experience.

Results

The majority of patients do not find it difficult to hold their breath at the correct level during DIBH and confidence levels regarding ability to follow instructions are good. Comprehension of instructions, preparation to perform DIBH and treatment position comfort levels were universally graded positively.

Conclusion

The majority of patients reported a strong level of comprehension and preparation that allows them to confidently perform DIBH as planned. Establishment of a dedicated treatment team, consistent patient instructions, regular feedback and an opportunity to rehearse DIBH can help increase patient confidence and reduce anxiety.

Keywords

breast cancerDeep Inspiration Breath Holdpatient perspectivequestionnaire
Type
Original Articles
Information
Journal of Radiotherapy in Practice , Volume 14 , Issue 3 , September 2015 , pp. 228 - 235
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Copyright
© Cambridge University Press 2015 

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