Randomized study comparing the impact of a simulator with CT option to diagnostic CT on workload and patients comfort

Purpose: A randomized study to investigate the routine use of a simulator-based CT (Sim-CT) for planning purposes. Materials and methods: 24 patients accepted for pelvic radiotherapy were randomized to receive either a Sim-CT or a DCT planning CT scan. The execution time was measured for different steps in both procedures. A questionnaire was developed to gain information about the psychological status and physical comfort. Results: The set-up (of hardware, software and patient) took significantly longer for the Sim-CT procedure (p