Prostate Cancer is the most common cancer in men and the second leading cause of cancer related deaths. When diagnosed at an early stage there are many curative treatment options. Radiation is one of those options. During radiation treatment, and external energy source is used to deliver lethal energy to the prostate to destroy prostate cancer cells. Many side effects from radiation stem from the energy that is delivered to nearby organs including the rectum. That is where the SpaceOAR Hydrogel can help.
The prostate and rectum are very close anatomically. This proximity can result in high-dose radiation exposure to the rectum and increased risk of side effects. The SpaceOAR Hydrogel is injected into this space to increase the distance between the prostate and the rectum, thereby decreasing the rectal exposure to radiation. The hydrogel remains in place during the duration of radiation treatment and then is slowly reabsorbed by the body.
SpaceOAR is FDA approved for patients undergoing radiation treatment for prostate cancer. It is clinically proven to minimize the risk of bowel, urinary, and sexual side effects from radiation therapy and improve quality of life. If you or a loved one are considering radiation treatment for prostate cancer, talk to your Urologist and Radiation Oncologist about SpaceOAR and if it may benefit you.
