SpaceOAR™ Hydrogel
Oncology Nevada offers a procedure to reduce prostate cancer treatment side effects called SpaceOAR™ Hydrogel.
A little space before prostate radiation can make a big difference after. In a clinical study, SpaceOAR Hydrogel was shown to help minimize the impact on urinary, sexual and bowel quality of life for prostate cancer patients undergoing radiation therapy.
What is SpaceOAR Hydrogel?
SpaceOAR Hydrogel is a polyethylene glycol (PEG) based hydrogel clinically shown to minimize urinary, sexual and bowel side effects and protect quality of life for prostate cancer patients undergoing radiation therapy.
Without SpaceOAR Hydrogel
Without the presence of SpaceOAR Hydrogel, high dose radiation is more likely to reach the rectum.
With SpaceOAR Hydrogel
SpaceOAR Hydrogel provides space between the rectum and the prostate, reducing high dose radiation to the rectum.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why should I consider SpaceOAR Hydrogel?
The rectum and prostate are in close proximity, which means during radiation therapy for prostate cancer the rectum may also be affected by radiation, potentially leading to issues with bowel function or other side effects. SpaceOAR Hydrogel is a polyethylene glycol (PEG) based absorbable hydrogel that temporarily creates space between the prostate and rectum. SpaceOAR Hydrogel is designed to reduce the radiation dose to the rectum and may help minimize the side effects of radiation therapy.
What is it made of?
SpaceOAR Hydrogel is a soft gel material that is mostly made of water and polyethylene glycol (PEG), which is commonly used in other medical implants. The material is biodegradable and is designed to be absorbed and leave your body naturally after about 6 months.
Where is the procedure performed?
The procedure to implant SpaceOAR Hydrogel is generally a brief outpatient procedure, and can be done in a doctor’s office, hospital or clinic before starting
radiation treatment.
Is SpaceOAR Hydrogel widely used?
SpaceOAR Hydrogel is now the option of choice for doctors and patients prior to radiation therapy. It is used in leading cancer centers, and with most types of radiation therapy. Many radiation oncologists, urologists and interventional radiologists recommend SpaceOAR Hydrogel for their prostate cancer patients.