SpaceOAR and Barrigel

SpaceOAR™ Hydrogel is an absorbable, injectable gel that assists in reducing the radiation dose delivered to the rectum in men undergoing radiation therapy for prostate cancer, thereby decreasing the likelihood of side effects.

Due to the proximity of the prostate to the rectum, prostate radiation therapy can inadvertently cause damage to the rectum, leading to issues such as fecal incontinence or other long-lasting side effects. SpaceOAR™ Hydrogell, an absorbable gel, is inserted through a minimally invasive procedure, creating a temporary space between the prostate and the rectum.

This allows the doctor to complement the patient’s radiation treatment, optimizing cancer targeting while preserving healthy tissue. The hydrogel spacer remains in place for approximately three months. After around six months, the hydrogel is naturally absorbed and cleared from the body through the patient’s urine.