An innovative procedure proven to minimize potential side effects for prostate cancer patients who receive radiation therapy is now offered exclusively in Ocala and The Villages by Florida Cancer Specialists & Research Institute (FCS) radiation oncologists Dr. Sachin Kamath and Dr. Luis Carrascosa. The pre-treatment option, known as SpaceOAR™ Hydrogel, is the first and only FDA-cleared spacer to help reduce the radiation dose delivered to the rectum of men undergoing radiation treatment for prostate cancer.
The goal of radiation therapy is to kill cancer cells and avoid damage to surrounding healthy tissue. Since the prostate is in close proximity to the rectum, radiation for treating prostate cancer can unintentionally cause damage to the rectum, which can lead to issues with bowel function.
“With the use of this advanced technology, we can better target tumors, reduce side effects, shorten treatment schedules and improve outcomes for our patients,” noted Dr. Sachin Kamath, FCS Medical Director of Radiation Oncology.
“Radiation therapy is extremely effective in targeting and treating prostate cancer,” said Dr. Carrascosa. “As with any procedure, there are potential side effects. SpaceOAR® Hydrogel is clinically shown to reduce the potential for high dose radiation to the rectum.”
The soft, absorbable gel is implanted during a brief outpatient procedure prior to the start of radiation treatment. It temporarily moves the rectum one half inch away from the prostate, providing adequate separation.
Dr. Carrascosa added, “Patients typically report no prolonged discomfort following insertion of the hydrogel, which stays in place for approximately three months. After about six months, it is naturally absorbed into the body.”
“This specialized treatment is the latest example of our ongoing investment in the newest and safest cutting-edge technologies that enable us to offer the most advanced radiation oncology treatments to our patients,” noted FCS President & Managing Physician Dr. Lucio Gordan.
The hydrogel procedure is currently available to patients at the FCS Ocala Cancer, 4945 SW 49th Place, Ocala, FL, at the Villages Cancer Center, 1400 US Highway 441N (Sharon Morse Building), The Villages, FL and at 2955 Brownwood Blvd., Suite 107, The Villages, FL (opening early 2021).
Drs. Kamath and Carrascosa and their colleagues provide treatment for a broad range of cancers, blood disorders and other diseases. They are dedicated to providing evidence-based radiotherapy treatments, including highly sophisticated stereotactic radiosurgery and stereotactic radiotherapy treatments in very short schedules that result in better outcomes, decreased cost and patient convenience.
Prostate cancer is the most common cancer in American men, with more than 183,000 new cases diagnosed each year.
