SpaceOAR Hydrogel
Protecting quality of life for prostate cancer patients.
Contents
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Introduction
Radiation therapy is one of the most effective treatments for prostate cancer, but it comes with risks to surrounding healthy tissues. Mississippi Urology Clinic utilizes SpaceOAR Hydrogel, an innovative FDA-approved technology that helps protect the rectum from radiation exposure, reducing side effects and improving patient outcomes.
What Is SpaceOAR Hydrogel?
SpaceOAR Hydrogel is an absorbable, biocompatible gel that is placed between the prostate and rectum before radiation therapy. This temporary spacer reduces radiation exposure to the rectum, minimizing potential complications such as bowel, urinary, and sexual dysfunction. Over time, the hydrogel naturally absorbs into the body without the need for removal.
Key Benefits of SpaceOAR Hydrogel:
- Reduces radiation exposure to the rectum, lowering the risk of side effects.
- Improves long-term bowel, urinary, and sexual function after treatment.
- Absorbs naturally within six months, requiring no additional procedure for removal.
How We Use SpaceOAR Hydrogel
At Mississippi Urology Clinic, we are committed to providing the most advanced and patient-focused treatments available. Our team offers SpaceOAR Hydrogel as part of a comprehensive approach to prostate cancer care, helping patients experience fewer side effects and a better quality of life after treatment.
How SpaceOAR Hydrogel Works
The SpaceOAR procedure is a minimally invasive outpatient procedure performed before radiation therapy begins.
The process typically involves:
- Preparation: The patient is given local or general anesthesia to ensure comfort.
- Hydrogel Placement: Using a small needle, the physician injects the hydrogel between the prostate and rectum under ultrasound guidance.
- Spacing Effect: The hydrogel immediately creates a protective barrier, reducing radiation exposure to the rectum.
- Absorption: After treatment is complete, the hydrogel gradually absorbs into the body over six months.
This simple, effective procedure requires no incisions, and most patients return home the same day with little to no downtime.
Who Is a Candidate for SpaceOAR Hydrogel?
Most prostate cancer patients receiving radiation therapy can benefit from SpaceOAR Hydrogel.
SpaceOAR Hydrogel is recommended for:
- Patients undergoing external beam radiation therapy for localized prostate cancer.
- Individuals at risk for radiation-induced bowel, urinary, or sexual dysfunction.
- Those who want to reduce long-term side effects and protect surrounding organs.
Our team at Mississippi Urology Clinic will evaluate your case and determine whether SpaceOAR Hydrogel is the right option for your treatment plan.
Schedule a Consultation
If you or a loved one is considering radiation therapy for prostate cancer, SpaceOAR Hydrogel may help protect your bowel, urinary, and sexual function during treatment. Schedule a consultation with Mississippi Urology Clinic today to discuss your options and the benefits of this innovative technology.