Common types of radiation therapy
Radiation therapy is a standard treatment option for localized prostate cancer. Different types of radiation therapy are available, and the type chosen for your treatment plan may be determined by factors like your cancer risk group, overall health, and individual treatment goals. Be sure to discuss the benefits and potential side effects of radiation therapy with your doctor.
Learn how SpaceOAR™ Hydrogel works during radiation therapy
Like other options for prostate cancer treatment, radiation therapy brings risks of long-term side effects. The rectum may be unintentionally damaged, which may lead to issues like bowel function, bladder complications, and/or erectile dysfunction.
SpaceOAR Hydrogel is a minimally invasive pre-treatment option for men undergoing prostate cancer radiation therapy and can be used in the various types of prostate cancer radiation therapy. It's designed to reduce the radiation dose delivered to the rectum, helping to minimize the negative side effects of radiation therapy.
Not all types of radiation therapy are available everywhere or suitable for every patient. Do more research using cancer.org and talk to your doctor regarding your specific situation.
SpaceOAR and SpaceOAR Vue Hydrogels are intended to reduce the amount of radiation that is delivered to the rectum during radiotherapy for prostate cancer by creating more space between the prostate and the rectum. The products maintain space for approximately 12 weeks and are absorbed and passed naturally by the body in about 6 months, but it may take longer to fully absorb.
SpaceOAR and SpaceOAR Vue Hydrogels contain polyethylene glycol (PEG). SpaceOAR Vue contains iodine. The use of these products in patients who are sensitive or allergic to these materials has not been studied.
With all medical procedures, there are risks associated with the procedure and the use of the device, including long-term implantation. The risks include but are not limited to: Pain associated with injection, pain or discomfort from the hydrogel, site inflammation, infection (including abscess), inability to urinate, urgent need to urinate or pass stool, constipation, rectal muscle spasm, damage to lining of rectum, ulcers, fistula (a hole between rectum and bladder, urethra, or skin below the scrotum), perforation (hole in prostate, bladder, urethra, rectum), necrosis (dead tissue), allergic reaction (local reaction or more severe reaction, such as anaphylaxis), embolism (blood vessel blockage is possible and may happen outside of the pelvis, potentially impacting vital organs or legs), fainting (which may range from briefly losing consciousness to more serious symptoms where CPR might be needed), bleeding. Patients who have undergone previous pelvic radiation therapy may have an increased risk of fistula.
If one or more of these complications occur, you may need medical treatment or surgery. Be sure to talk with your doctor so that you thoroughly understand all of the risks and benefits associated with the use of the device.
This material is for informational purposes only and not meant for medical diagnosis. This information does not constitute medical or legal advice, and Boston Scientific makes no representation regarding the medical benefits included in this information. Boston Scientific strongly recommends that you consult with your physician on all matters pertaining to your health.
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.
All images are the property of Boston Scientific.