June 26, 2018
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.