Capital Health now offers SpaceOARTM Hydrogel, a new technique for prostate cancer patients undergoing radiation therapy. Radiation therapy aims to attack cancer cells while avoiding damage to the surrounding healthy tissue. Due to the prostate’s location, unintentional damage to the end of the digestive tract is a risk.
SpaceOARTM Hydrogel is an absorbable gel injected between the prostate and rectum before the start of radiation therapy. It creates a space by moving the rectal wall away from the prostate and reduces the risk of radiation damage to healthy tissue. This allows for fewer, but more effective radiation treatments. The gel stays in place for about three months and is naturally absorbed and excreted by the body in about six months.
At Capital Health, this innovative treatment has been well received by prostate cancer patients who are appropriate candidates. The gel is inserted under local, regional, or general anesthesia in a minimally invasive outpatient procedure. Patients can resume normal activities immediately, offering men another option to preserve their quality of life.
SpaceOARTM Hydrogel has been clinically proven to reduce the risk of side effects from radiation treatment and is approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
For more information, contact Capital Health — Urology Specialists at 609.303.4465.
