What is a BioProtect Spacer?

In precision radiotherapy, spacers can be used to protect vital organs and healthy tissue that are in close proximity to the treatment area, that would otherwise be at risk of being exposed to an unintended radiation dose.

BioProtect Spacer is an option for men undergoing precision radiotherapy for prostate cancer, acting as a spacer for the protection of healthy tissue.

The spacer is a very small balloon, which after deployment pushes healthy tissue away from the high-dose of radiation used to target cancerous cells, helping to prevent and reduce potential side-effects. The balloon maintains its size and shape and naturally biodegrades in the body after the course of treatment. Proton therapy and radiotherapy technology improve treatment accuracy and effectiveness, the addition of a balloon spacer can further help to deliver the best possible results for your prostate cancer treatment.

A balloon spacer can also help to support radiation dose delivery when undergoing a Seven-Fraction treatment schedule (sometimes also known as ‘hypofractionation’ – a higher dose radiation treatment delivered over less sessions or appointments).

How is BioProtect Spacer delivered?

Deploying the BioProtect Spacer is a quick and minimally invasive procedure.

Under ultrasound guidance our urologists use a unique two-part deployment device to insert the balloon spacer into the correct position, usually between the prostate and the rectum. This deployment system gives our urologist precise control over the position of the balloon and ensures optimal protection of the healthy tissues. This procedure takes place under a general or spinal anaesthesia.

Once the balloon spacer is in situ in the body, it is inflated with a sterile saline solution to reach the required size for your precision radiotherapy treatment. The balloon spacer remains inflated during treatment and completely biodegrades in the body after six months, so you can continue to go about your daily life as usual, during and after treatment. The procedure is usually performed at one of our partner hospitals and is an outpatient procedure, so no overnight stay is required.

Is it suitable for all patients?

BioProtect Spacer can support your prostate cancer treatment and reduce the risks of side-effects compared to when having proton beam therapy or radiotherapy, and not using a spacer. However, a spacer solution isn’t for everyone, so it’s best to seek advice from your consultant on the most appropriate treatment options.

Is it safe?

BioProtect ProSpace is a clinically proven, safe and consistent spacer that reduces radiation does to vital organs and healthy tissue, with proven long-term benefits. For more information about the safety and long-term benefits of BioProtect ProSpace, please visit: bioprotect.com/research.