The Barrigel® Rectal Spacer represents a significant advancement in the field of prostate cancer treatment, particularly in the preparation for radiation therapy. Dr. Ali Afshar, a distinguished Urologic Oncology Surgeon in Los Angeles, integrates the use of Barrigel® into his comprehensive prostate cancer care, offering patients an innovative solution to minimize the side effects associated with radiation therapy.
Understanding the Barrigel® Rectal Spacer
Barrigel® is a biodegradable gel that is injected between the prostate and rectum to create a physical space that reduces the radiation dose received by the rectum during prostate cancer radiation therapy. This spacing aims to protect the rectal tissue from potential radiation damage, thereby decreasing the risk of gastrointestinal side effects commonly associated with radiation treatment.
The Role of Barrigel® in Radiation Therapy Preparation
The introduction of Barrigel® into the treatment plan is a proactive measure to enhance the safety and efficacy of radiation therapy for prostate cancer. By increasing the distance between the prostate and rectum, Barrigel® effectively lowers the risk of rectal injury, improving patient comfort and outcomes.
Procedure Overview
Minimally Invasive
The Barrigel® injection procedure is minimally invasive, typically performed under local anesthesia or sedation.
Quick and Effective
The entire process takes a short amount of time to complete, with the gel being precisely injected to create an optimal spacer.
Biodegradable Material
Barrigel® is made from a safe, absorbable material that gradually breaks down and is absorbed by the body after the completion of radiation therapy.
Benefits of Using Barrigel®
Reduced Side Effects
By protecting the rectum from excessive radiation exposure, Barrigel® significantly reduces the likelihood of gastrointestinal side effects.
Improved Quality of Life
Patients treated with Barrigel® typically report a higher quality of life during and after radiation therapy, thanks to the reduction in side effects.
Compatible with Various Radiation Therapies
Barrigel® can be used in conjunction with different types of prostate cancer radiation treatments, including external beam radiation therapy (EBRT) and brachytherapy.
Ideal Candidates for Barrigel®
Men undergoing radiation therapy for prostate cancer who are at risk of rectal exposure to radiation can benefit from the protective effects of Barrigel®. Dr. Afshar evaluates each patient’s specific situation, including cancer staging and overall health, to determine if the use of Barrigel® is an appropriate addition to their treatment plan.
Meet Dr. Ali Afshar
Dr. Ali Afshar, a board certified urologist, has been providing exceptional urological care in the San Fernando Valley since 2017. As a vital member of the San Fernando Valley Urological Associates Medical Group, he operates out of the group’s office in Beverly Hills, California. In addition to his clinical practice, Dr. Afshar serves as an attending urologist at Cedars Sinai Medical Center, where he is actively involved in teaching and mentoring the next generation of urologists through the current urology residency program.
Find Out MorePersonalized Care Approach with Dr. Ali Afshar in Los Angeles
Dr. Afshar’s commitment to providing state-of-the-art, personalized cancer care is evident in his adoption of innovative treatments like Barrigel®. His approach ensures that each patient receives a tailored treatment plan designed to maximize therapeutic outcomes while minimizing side effects.
Through careful planning and expert execution, Dr. Afshar utilizes Barrigel® to enhance the safety and effectiveness of radiation therapy, contributing to more positive treatment experiences and outcomes for his prostate cancer patients.
Barrigel® Rectal Spacer therapy marks a transformative step in minimizing the side effects of radiation therapy, reinforcing Dr. Afshar’s dedication to advancing prostate cancer treatment and patient care.
Schedule an Appointment our Beverly Hills clinic today to learn more.