Clinically Proven to Reduce the Risks of Side Effects

The Mary Washington Healthcare (MWHC) Regional Cancer Center has added a new technology for men choosing to undergo radiation therapy for prostate cancer. The newly offered SpaceOAR® Hydrogel is a protective spacer placed between the patient's prostate and rectum. It has been clinically proven to reduce the risk of side effects both during and after radiation treatment.

About one in seven men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer during his lifetime. When confronted with treatment options, most patients are unsure or confused about how different therapies will affect them. The MWHC cancer team has implemented this innovative technology to help prostate cancer patients retain the pace and quality of their everyday lives. SpaceOAR® Hydrogel is not painful, remains stable during radiation therapy and then is gradually absorbed by the body after radiation therapy has been completed. It is a minimally invasive outpatient procedure with local or general anesthesia. Patients can immediately resume their normal activities.

“Radiation therapy with SpaceOAR® Hydrogel greatly minimizes the risk of rectal injury and allows men to have their cancer treated while continuing their daily routine”, said John Chinault, MD, Medical Director, Radiation Oncology, MWHC Regional Cancer Center. “Protecting the quality of life for our patients during and after prostate cancer treatment is a priority for us.”

SpaceOAR® Hydrogel is the latest addition to a highly advanced line-up of cancer treatments available at the MWHC Regional Cancer Center, including Breast Microseed, Accuboost, and Stereotactic Radiosurgery. For more information about treatment options and comprehensive services such as the cancer nurse navigator program and integrative medicine offerings, please visit cancer.mwhc.com.

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Mary Washington Healthcare is a fully integrated, regional medical system that provides inpatient and outpatient care through 28 facilities, including Mary Washington Hospice, and services including Mary Washington Hospital, a 451-bed regional medical center, and Stafford Hospital, a 100-bed community hospital. Mary Washington Healthcare is a not-for-profit health system with a longstanding commitment to providing care regardless of ability to pay. For more information about our services and facilities, visit MaryWashingtonHealthcare.com.