Alliance Urology Specialists are pleased to offer comprehensive procedures to treat various urologic disorders. Other than skin cancer, prostate cancer is the most common cancer among men. Treatment for prostate cancer depends on multiple factors, including the stage of cancer, age, and general health. In more advanced cases, radiation may become necessary. In these cases, SpaceOAR Hydrogel may be a preventative first step before radiation. SpaceOAR Hydrogel is a unique procedure that can help minimize urinary, sexual, bowel side effects and protect the quality of life for prostate cancer patients undergoing radiation therapy. To help you make an educated decision regarding your urologic health, we are explaining everything you need to know about SpaceOAR Hydrogel.
What is SpaceOAR Hydrogel?
While radiation is commonly used to treat prostate cancer, it can come with some side effects. You may experience some urinary symptoms such as increased urgency, frequency, or inability to hold it. Rectal symptoms are also possible, including an increased need to use the bathroom or loose stools. Additional side effects include the possibility of decreased erectile dysfunction. Fortunately, there are new techniques to minimize side effects associated with prostate cancer radiation. One of these procedures is SpaceOAR Hydrogel.
SpaceOAR Hydrogel is a procedure designed to reduce the radiation dose delivered to the rectum during prostate cancer radiation treatments. When prostate cancer patients undergo radiation therapy, the goal is to eliminate cancer cells while avoiding any damage to the surrounding tissue. The prostate is located next to the rectum and is only separated by a small space. Because of the lack of distance between the rectum and the prostate, radiation can unintentionally damage the rectum, leading to bowel dysfunction. SpaceOAR Hydrogel uses a hydrogel spacer to push the rectum away from the prostate and minimize the damage to the rectum during radiation.
About the SpaceOAR Hydrogel Procedure
SpaceOAR HYdrogel is made of 90% water and polyethylene glycol that forms a soft gel material. Polyethylene glycol is a safe substance that is used in various other implants, including surgical sealants for the eye, brain, and spine. The procedure itself is quick and typically takes less than 30 minutes. There is minimal recovery time required, and patients usually do not report any prolonged discomfort following the procedure.
Different types of prostate cancer treatment all have their risks and side effects, so it is important that you talk with your doctor when making a decision about treatment.
At Alliance Urology Specialists, our goal is to provide the highest level of specialized urology care. We know that dealing with a condition like prostate cancer can be overwhelming and emotional, so we want to help support and guide you as you navigate this condition.
Make an Appointment
To diagnose and treat any common problem related to the genitourinary system, schedule an appointment with one of our providers. Our team has years of experience treating issues pertaining to the urinary tract, male infertility, pelvic floor dysfunction, and more. Alliance Urology Specialists offers in-office procedures such as SpaceOAR Hydrogel, UroLift, and more. For questions and inquiries, please call our office in Greensboro at (336) 274-1114.
