MINIMIZING THE SIDE EFFECTS OF PROSTATE CANCER RADIATION THERAPY
The goal of prostate cancer radiation therapy is to kill the cancer cells while avoiding damage to the surrounding healthy tissue. That’s why Men’s Health Alaska has partnered up with SpaceOAR Hydrogel, a temporary injectable gel that minimizes potential side effects of prostate cancer radiation therapy so you can continue to thrive after treatment.
WHAT IS SPACEOAR?
SpaceOAR Hydrogel is an absorbable hydrogel that temporarily creates space between the prostate and the rectum, reducing the radiation dose delivered to the rectum during prostate radiation therapy.
WHY SHOULD I HAVE SPACEOAR HYDROGEL?
SpaceOAR Hydrogel is made up of two liquids that when combined, form a soft gel material that is mostly made of water. This hydrogel temporarily moves the rectum a half inch away from the prostate. By separating the prostate from the rectum, the hydrogel reduces common side effects of prostate cancer radiation including:
- Rectal pain and bleeding
- Chronic diarrhea
- Urinary urgency and leakage
- Erectile dysfunction
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
How is SpaceOAR hydrogel implanted? (put into place)
The SpaceOAR hydrogel is injected as liquid through a small needle between the rectum and the prostate. Your doctor will use ultrasound imaging to ensure correct placement.
What do I need to do to get ready before the procedure?
Your doctor will give you instructions on how to prepare for the procedure and information about any anesthesia you will receive.
Will I be awake or asleep during the procedure?
SpaceOAR hydrogel can be implanted under local, regional or general anesthesia. You should discuss with your doctor which type of anesthesia will work best for you.
Will I feel any discomfort or pain during or after the procedure?
Your doctor will use a local, regional or general anesthesia and the injection site will be numbed, so you may feel a pinprick or pressure but should not feel any discomfort. Following the implantation, you may experience some temporary discomfort at the injection site. SpaceOAR hydrogel patients typically report no prolonged discomfort from the implanted gel.
How soon after the procedure can I return to my normal activities?
You should be able to go back to your normal activities right away. Check with your doctor about anything you should avoid after the procedure and during your radiation treatments.
How long will SpaceOAR hydrogel remain in my body?
SpaceOAR hydrogel stays in place, separating your prostate and rectum, for about 3 months. After 6 months, the hydrogel is naturally absorbed into the body and removed in your urine.
Has SpaceOAR hydrogel been clinically tested?
SpaceOAR hydrogel has been evaluated in many clinical studies and shown to be safe and effective in reducing side effects. In the U.S., 222 prostate cancer patients participated in a multi-center, randomized, patient-blinded clinical study. Study results showed that the hydrogel was safe and effective. The average SpaceOAR hydrogel study patient gained ½ inch of space between the prostate and rectum, and had significant reduction in radiation dose to the rectum resulting in significantly fewer rectal side effects.
What are the risks associated with SpaceOAR Hydrogel?
Potential complications associated with SpaceOAR hydrogel include but are not limited to pain or discomfort associated with:
- SpaceOAR hydrogel injection
- SpaceOAR hydrogel
- Needle penetration of the bladder, prostate, rectal wall, rectum, or urethra
- Injection of SpaceOAR hydrogel into the bladder, prostate, rectal wall, rectum, or urethra
Other potential complications include:
- Local inflammatory reactions
- Infection
- Injection of air, fluid or SpaceOAR hydrogel intravascularly
- Urinary retention
- Rectal mucosal damage
- Ulcers
- Necrosis
- Bleeding
- Constipation
- Rectal urgency