Perirectal Spacing for Prostate Cancer

For men who are diagnosed with prostate cancer and opting to receive radiation as a form of definitive treatment, minimizing undesirable side effects is of utmost importance. One goal is to minimize the radiation dose to the surrounding organs, particularly the rectum. Recently, many gel barriers have been developed that are placed temporarily in the space between the prostate and the rectum. These gels are absorbable and dissipate months after radiation therapy is complete, ensuring that the rectum is exposed to a far less dose of radiation during treatment. The goal of these perirectal gel spacers is to minimize the risk of radiation-induced inflammation of the rectum (otherwise known as radiation proctitis) in the short- and long-term. Symptoms such as rectal bleeding, painful defecation, and diarrhea are minimized with the placement of such gels. Dr. Sayegh has a vast experience with perirectal gel placement and can offer these services in a streamlined fashion for men who are planning radiation therapy for prostate cancer.