How it works
SpaceOAR Hydrogel is an absorbable PEG-based hydrogel that temporarily creates space between the prostate and rectum. It's designed to reduce the radiation dose delivered to the rectum, which may help minimize the negative side effects of radiation therapy.
About the procedure
If your doctor determines that SpaceOAR Hydrogel may be right for you, the procedure is performed before radiation therapy begins.
During the procedure, your doctor places the hydrogel in the space between the prostate and rectum to create separation during treatment. This is usually done in a clinical setting and may involve local or general anesthesia, depending on your care plan.
The procedure itself is generally brief, and many patients are able to return home the same day. Your healthcare team will provide guidance on any preparation beforehand and what to expect afterward.
SpaceOAR Hydrogel is naturally absorbed by the body in about six months. However, it may take longer to fully absorb.
If you have questions about whether this procedure may be appropriate for you, or what it may involve in your specific case, your doctor can help guide you based on your individual needs.
Watch this video to learn about the SpaceOAR Hydrogel procedure
Clinically proven results
SpaceOAR Hydrogel has clinically proven results when used with radiation therapy, including fewer bowel complications, fewer urinary complications, and fewer sexual complications.1,2 At a median of 3 years following treatment, analyses of a clinical trial showed evidence of:
Risks
With all medical procedures, there are risks associated with the SpaceOAR Hydrogel procedures and the use of the devices, including long term implantation.
Your doctor is your best source for information on the risks and benefits of SpaceOAR and SpaceOAR Vue Hydrogels. Talk to your doctor for a complete listings of risks, warnings and important safety information.
“If I was going to have radiation…I was going to have SpaceOAR”
Sanford J. Siegel, MD, FACS
Have more questions? We can help.
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References
- Hamstra DA, Mariados N, Sylvester J, et al. Sexual quality of life following prostate intensity modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) with a rectal/prostate spacer: Secondary analysis of a phase 3 trial. Pract Radiat Oncol. 2018 Jan-Feb;8(1):e7–e15.
- Hamstra DA, Mariados N, Sylvester J, et al. Continued benefit to rectal separation for prostate radiation therapy: Final results of a phase III trial. Int J Radiat Oncol Biol Phys. 2017 Apr 1;97(5):976–85.
Caution: U.S. Federal law restricts this device to sale by or on the order of a physician.
Results from case studies are not necessarily predictive of results in other cases. Results in other cases may vary.
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