Do you typically recommend placement of a rectal spacer prior to definitive radiotherapy, regardless of dose/fractionation?
Do the results of GU005 impact your recommendation for placement of a rectal spacer?
This question is part of our collaboration with ASTRO 2025 to highlight impactful trial data from this year's meeting. This question is inspired by the Plenary Session Presentation "Primary Results from NRG-GU005: A Phase III Trial of SBRT vs. Hypofractionated IMRT for Localized Intermediate Risk Prostate Cancer" by Dr. Rodney Ellis.
2 Answers
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Radiation Oncology · University of Miami Miller School of Medicine
Answered on
In my opinion, the potential and role of rectal spacing in minimizing toxicity is not debated. The concern about spacing relates to risks of the procedure and its associated additional cost to treatment may be greater than the potential improvement in toxicity for the patient. As we continue to show...
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Mednet Member
Radiation Oncology · Steward Medical Group
Answered on
In theory, it makes sense. In reality, in my experience, it should be placed by a well-trained, experienced urologist. Achieving spacer uniformity from patient to patient is an issue.
Overall experience has been fair. My personal results have been erratic with regard to gel placement.
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