Barrigel™ Rectal Spacer in Tucson, Arizona

If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with prostate cancer, choosing the right treatment plan is one of the most important decisions ahead. Many men undergo radiation therapy as part of their care. While radiation is highly effective, it can also affect healthy tissues near the prostate — especially the rectum — and may lead to short- or long-term side effects.

To help protect healthy rectal tissue, our practice proudly offers Barrigel™, the first and only hyaluronic-acid rectal spacer designed to create personalized protection during prostate cancer radiation therapy.

What Is Barrigel™?

Barrigel™ is a soft, injectable gel made from hyaluronic acid — a naturally occurring substance found in the body. When placed between the prostate and rectum, it gently pushes the rectum away from the high-dose radiation field.

This temporary spacing helps reduce the amount of radiation the rectum receives, lowering the risk of bowel-related side effects during and after treatment.

Why Is Rectal Spacing Important?

Because the rectum sits directly behind the prostate, it is one of the organs most vulnerable to radiation exposure. Without protection, patients may experience:

• Rectal swelling
• Pain or irritation
• Hemorrhoids
• Diarrhea or bowel changes
• Long-term bowel complications

Protecting the rectum is essential for maintaining quality of life during and after prostate cancer treatment.

How Barrigel™ Works

During a minimally invasive procedure, your physician uses ultrasound guidance to inject Barrigel™ into the space between the prostate and rectum. The gel forms a protective cushion that:

• Reduces radiation exposure to the rectum
• Maintains its shape throughout the entire course of treatment
• Is fully absorbed by the body over time

Since Barrigel™ can be molded and shaped to match your anatomy, it offers a personalized approach to rectal protection.

What to Expect During the Procedure

• The procedure is typically performed in an outpatient setting.
• Ultrasound guidance ensures accurate placement of the gel.
• Most patients return to normal activities shortly after the procedure.
• The spacer remains in place during radiation therapy and is safely absorbed by the body over time.

Your provider will review preparation instructions, what to expect on the day of the procedure, and any post-treatment care recommendations.

Is Barrigel™ Right for You?

Barrigel™ may be recommended if you are planning to undergo radiation therapy for prostate cancer and want to reduce your risk of bowel-related side effects.

Your physician will assess your anatomy, treatment plan, and medical history to determine if Barrigel™ is an appropriate option for you.

Learn More About Barrigel™

For more information about Barrigel™ rectal spacer technology, visit the official manufacturer’s website:

Visit Official Barrigel™ Website

Schedule a Consultation

If you would like to learn more about how Barrigel™ can support your prostate cancer treatment plan, contact our office to schedule an appointment.

Our team is here to guide you through your options and help you make confident, informed decisions about your care.

Schedule an Appointment