How is a SpaceOAR performed?

SpaceOAR Hydrogel is injected as a liquid through a needle inserted between the rectum and the prostate. It can be implanted via a local anesthetic that will numb the injection area or under general anesthesia that will put a patient to sleep during the procedure.

How effective is SpaceOAR?

Results showed that the SpaceOAR hydrogel was safe and effective. The average participant gained 1/2 inch of space between the prostate and rectum and had significant reduction in radiation dose to the rectum, resulting in significantly fewer rectal side effects.

Are fiducial markers necessary?

In conclusion, while prostate fiducials are not needed for initial patient setup, they will play an important role in the evolution of adaptive and hypofractionated radiation therapy of the prostate.

Does SpaceOAR hurt?

SpaceOAR® hydrogel is not painful, remains stable during radiation therapy and then is gradually absorbed by the body after radiation therapy has been completed.

How long does it take for SpaceOAR to dissolve?

How long will SpaceOAR Hydrogel remain in my body? SpaceOAR Hydrogel stays in place, separating your prostate and rectum, for about 3 months. After about 6 months, the hydrogel is naturally absorbed into the body and removed in your urine.

How long does SpaceOAR procedure take?

The procedure takes about 30 minutes and is typically done in a hospital, surgery center, or doctor’s office. Patients should be able to immediately resume their normal activities after the procedure, but should check with their doctor for any restrictions associated with their radiation treatment.

What is OAR gel?

Print Save. SpaceOAR stands for Spacing Organs at Risk. It’s a water-based gel (hydrogel) placed between the prostate and anus in men going through radiation therapy for prostate cancer.

What are the side effects of SpaceOAR?

Some of the side-effects can include:

Chronic diarrhoea.
Rectal pain and bleeding.
Erectile dysfunction.
Urinary urgency and leakage.

How do they put markers in for prostate radiation?

To effectively treat prostate cancer, doctors need an accurate view (via X-rays) of the prostate gland during radiation therapy. To help improve this view, doctors may insert gold markers called fiducials into the prostate by placing hollow gold needles through the rectum and moving a fiducial through each needle.

How are markers placed in the prostate?

Once you’re asleep, your healthcare provider will use rectal ultrasound to see your prostate. They’ll put tiny needles into your prostate through your perineum (the area of skin between your scrotum and anus). They’ll place 3 fiducial markers into your prostate through the needles, then remove the needles.