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The Daily Insight

What is a simulation for radiation treatment?

Author

Emma Johnson

Updated on April 30, 2026

Simulation is a critical preparation step before radiation treatment. It is performed at the simulation room equipped with a dedicated big-bore CT scanner. During the simulation, the treatment setup will be simulated by positioning the patient on the flat couch immobilized by specially designed devices.

What is simulation in cancer treatment?

Listen to pronunciation. (SIM-yoo-LAY-shun) In cancer treatment, a process used to plan radiation therapy so that the target area is precisely located and marked.

How long does mapping for radiation take?

They’ll use your simulation x-rays and CT scan to plan the angles and shapes of your radiation beams. The details are carefully planned and checked. This takes between 5 days and 2 weeks.

What happens at a radiation consult?

During your first visit, your radiation oncologist will evaluate your need for radiation therapy and its likely results. This includes reviewing your current medical problems, past medical history, past surgical history, family history,medications, allergies and lifestyle.

What is the next step after radiation therapy?

After your last radiation treatment, you will meet with a nurse to review your after-visit summary: Speak with your nurse about how to care for yourself after your radiation treatment. Schedule a follow-up appointment with your radiation oncologist, usually 4 to 6 weeks after your first visit.

What is a simulation visit?

For most types of treatment, a simulation (SIM) appointment will be scheduled. The purpose of this visit is to outline or map the exact area to be treated. A CT scan will be taken to verify the anatomy and assure accuracy. If needed, immobilization devices such as a face mask or a leg mold will be made at this time.

What is the process of radiation simulation?

Before you begin radiation treatment, your radiation therapy team carefully plans your treatment in a process called radiation simulation. Treatment planning usually involves positioning your body, making marks on your skin and taking imaging scans. Your radiation therapy team determines whether you’ll lie on your back,…

What is radradiation therapy preclinical core simulation?

Radiation Therapy Preclinical Core Simulation is a critical preparation step before radiation treatment. It is performed at the simulation room equipped with a dedicated big-bore CT scanner. During the simulation, the treatment setup will be simulated by positioning the patient on the flat couch immobilized by specially designed devices.

How is radiation treatment planned for cancer patients?

Before you begin radiation treatment, your radiation therapy team carefully plans your treatment in a process called radiation simulation. Treatment planning usually involves positioning your body, making marks on your skin and taking imaging scans.

What is a laser tattoo treatment simulation?

During the simulation, the treatment setup will be simulated by positioning the patient on the flat couch immobilized by specially designed devices. The patient will then be aligned to the reference low-energy lasers in the room and be marked on the skin with tattoos.