New Technology Reduces Side Effects of Prostate Cancer Treatment

The Christ Hospital Health Network now offers improved treatment for men receiving radiation therapy for prostate cancer

The Christ Hospital Health Network now offers improved treatment for men receiving radiation therapy for prostate cancer. Traditionally, radiation therapy in the treatment of prostate cancer can cause unintended radiation injury to adjacent healthy tissue leading to a range of bowel, urinary, and sexual symptoms that can negatively affect patient health and quality of life during radiotherapy, and for years afterwards.

To improve the risk of unwanted side effects, The Christ Hospital is now offering SpaceOAR hydrogel to reduce the radiation dose delivered to unwanted areas and the risk of injury. The hydrogel is placed on surrounding tissue to protect the area for approximately three months during radiation therapy, then liquefies and is completely absorbed by the body.

In a clinical study, SpaceOAR hydrogel demonstrated a 99% procedural success rate, a 73.5% reduction in radiation dose to healthy tissue, and significantly less impact on life(1). The treatment is approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), covered by most insurance providers and is currently being used in many leading cancer centers throughout the United States. “Our goal is to offer the latest medical advancements to our patients— improving treatment, outcomes, recovery and their overall experience” said Brian Mannion, Medical Oncologist and Medical Director of The Christ Hospital Cancer Center. “SpaceOAR hydrogel is just one way we provide a patient-centric approach to cancer treatment.”

Dr. Mannion and colleagues at The Christ Hospital also created the Prostate Collaborative, an opportunity for patients to have a one-time office visit with three specialists focused on prostate treatment: urologist, radiation oncologist and medical oncologist. This multidisciplinary approach allows patients to benefit from better communication, integrated perspectives and a streamlined treatment plan. “The collaborative is a great opportunity for patients seeking a second opinion— both newly diagnosed and anyone currently in treatment,” said Dr. Mannion.

For more information about prostate or cancer treatment at The Christ Hospital, call 513-201-7903 or visit TheChristHospital.com/prostate. Appointments are conveniently available throughout the Tristate.

About The Christ Hospital Health Network: The Christ Hospital Health Network is an acute care hospital located in Mt. Auburn with six ambulatory centers and dozens of offices conveniently located throughout the region. The Network is supported by more than 1200 talented physicians and 5800 dedicated employees. Its mission is to improve the health of the community and to create patient value by providing exceptional outcomes, the finest experiences all in an affordable way. It has been recognized by Forbes Magazine as the 24th best large employer in the nation in their America’s 500 Best Large Employers listing and by National Consumer Research as the region’s Most Preferred Hospital for 21 consecutive years. The Network is dedicated to transforming care by delivering integrated, personalized healthcare through its comprehensive, multi-specialty physician network. The Christ Hospital is among only six percent of hospitals in the nation to be awarded Magnet recognition for nursing excellence and among the top five percent of hospitals in the country for patient satisfaction. For more than 125 years, The Christ Hospital has provided compassionate care to those it serves.

About SpaceOAR Hydrogel: SpaceOAR hydrogel is a registered trademark of Augmenix, Inc. More information about Augmenix and the SpaceOAR hydrogel can be found at http://www.SpaceOAR.com.