For Patients
Questions
What is DVS® (Dose Verification System)?DVS is a system used to measure the amount of radiation that is delivered to the tumor tissue, tumor bed (where the tumor was) and/or healthy tissue. Physicians use DVS to verify that the daily radiation dose you receive is within the prescribed dose range.
How does DVS benefit me?
Your radiation treatment plan is designed to provide the maximum dose to a tumor while minimizing the radiation to healthy tissue.
To do this, radiation therapy must be accurate and consistent. Each day, DVS will measure the radiation you receive; then your physician can confirm that the radiation dose is within the prescribed range.
How does DVS work?
Typically, DVS radiation dosimeters are placed near the tumor or tumor bed and/or surrounding normal tissue. The radiation therapist will use a special reader to take daily measurements from the dosimeter before and immediately after your treatment. It takes only a few seconds to take the measurements.
What size is the radiation dosimeter?
Each dosimeter is inside a capsule measuring 0.8 inches (20 mm) long and 0.08 inches (2.1 mm) across. The capsule is made of a biocompatible glass covered by a protective plastic coating.
Are DVS dosimeters radioactive?
DVS dosimeters are not radioactive. They measure radiation, but they do not produce it.
Are there any side effects associated with having the DVS dosimeter in my body?
There may be some short-term discomfort immediately following placement of the dosimeters, but there have been no long-term side effects associated with the dosimeter.
Will the dosimeters be removed after I've completed my radiation treatments?
DVS dosimeters are designed to remain in your body permanently.
Who needs to know about my implanted DVS dosimeters?
You should tell all healthcare providers, such as physicians and those who perform MRI (Magnetic Resonance Image) and mammograms, that you have been implanted with DVS dosimeters, even if the medical care is not for your cancer. Show the healthcare provider your Patient Information Card, provided by your physician, which includes a telephone number and e-mail address where they can obtain more information about DVS.
If I lose the Patient Information Card, where can I get another one?
You can get another card by contacting Sicel Technologies (888-387-6697 or by e-mail at helpdesk@siceltech.com) or the radiation oncologist who prescribed DVS.
Is it safe to have a mammogram or an MRI?
The DVS is compatible with procedures such as mammography and MRI. However, it is important to tell all healthcare providers about DVS and show them the Patient Information Card before you receive medical care.
Will other radiation, such as X-rays, CTs, or nuclear radioactive procedures affect the dosimeter?
The dosimeters are only activated during radiation therapy by the special reader. X-rays and CTs (computed tomography scans) do not affect the dosimeter. However, you should tell your radiation oncologist if you will be receiving nuclear medicine procedures and/or other exams and treatments, even those unrelated to your cancer.
Will the dosimeters interfere with electronic equipment such as cell phones, computers or metal detectors?
DVS will not interfere with electronic equipment. They are only activated by the special reader used by the radiation therapist. There is no need for concern when you go through airport metal detectors with the dosimeters in your body.
