Ep. 191 Optimizing Radiation Therapy: Role of Perirectal Spacers with Dr. Eric Chenven and Dr. Nadim Nasr

What does recent research say about the role of perirectal spacers in prostate cancer treatment? In this episode of the BackTable Urology Podcast, host Dr. Jose Silva discusses the use of perirectal spacers for prostate radiotherapy with guests Dr. Eric Chenven, Chief of Urology at Broward Health Medical Center, and Dr. Nadim Nasr, a radiation oncologist at Arlington Radiation Oncology.

---

This podcast is supported by:

Boston Scientific SpaceOAR Hydrogel

https://www.spaceoar.com/about-spaceoar-hydrogel/how-spaceoar-hydrogel-works/?utm_source=google&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=uro-ph-us-spaceoar-dtp&utm_content=nf-cs-prostatecancer_search_en_us_brand_conversion_dtp_uro-spaceoar-651995397243-res&gad_source=1&gclid=CjwKCAjw9eO3BhBNEiwAoc0-jTE63KEHSnZ1soXre9ovVRqweY2QctIuZ_iN2QUjk6Px4k6fK1757BoCVNgQAvD_BwE

---

SYNPOSIS

Their conversation delves into the use of Boston Scientific’s SpaceOAR hydrogel to reduce radiation exposure to the rectum. The experts elaborate on the techniques and logistical challenges of placing spacers, as well as their effects on patient outcomes. They also discuss insurance hurdles, use of sedation, fiducial marker placement, and the impact of large prostate size on treatment efficacy. Finally, they touch on Barrigel, the newest spacer option. This episode emphasizes the need for collaboration between urologists and radiation oncologists to improve patient care.

---

TIMESTAMPS

00:00 - Introduction

06:33 - Importance of Perirectal Spacing

11:17 - Techniques and Protocols

13:00 - Barrigel: The New Option

14:58 - Challenges and Practical Considerations

24:55 - Future Directions

---

RESOURCES

Boston Scientific SpaceOAR

https://www.bostonscientific.com/en-US/products/hydrogel-spacers/spaceoar-hydrogel.html

URO108 - Minimizing Radiation Therapy Side Effects

https://www.backtable.com/shows/urology/podcasts/108/minimizing-radiation-therapy-side-effects

URO123 - Perfecting Rectal Spacer Placement for Optimal Care

https://www.backtable.com/shows/urology/podcasts/123/perfecting-rectal-spacer-placement-for-optimal-care