Rectal Spacer - any knowledgeu

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User

Posted 04 Dec 2024 at 05:20

been on Active Surveillance for 2 years . After PSA went up slightly had appt with Oncology Nurse. They are arranging MRI and suggesting Radiotherapy maybe. Mentioned new procedure pre Treatment called Rectal Spacer to protect bowel. Anyone know anything about this. Wary of it as I would need to stop my Warfarin tablets for 5 days.

User

Posted 04 Dec 2024 at 08:51

I had one fitted, similar experience to a biopsy, though in and out a lot quicker.

I've just finished my radiotherapy (15 sessions) and I don't feel I've suffered too badly from side effects on my bowel. No accidents, more farty than normal, some mucus but not a lot. Obviously I can't compare to how I'd have been without the spacer, but feel it must have improved things.

Not on any medication though so the choice was pretty easy for me

Edited by member 04 Dec 2024 at 10:00 | Reason: can't not can!

User

Posted 04 Dec 2024 at 09:08

It's not exactly a new treatment and indeed the NHS has gone cold on it in recent times for most cases but one of the reasons it might have been recommended in your case is the fact that you're on Warfarin, which in turn means any internal bleeding that might result from RT would be exacerbated.

Do you have any other medical conditions that you've been told might suggest a spacer would be a good idea?

Jules

Edited by member 04 Dec 2024 at 09:10 | Reason: Not specified

User

Posted 07 Dec 2024 at 14:37

I have both heart and lung conditions. Nurse seemed to suggest this was a new procedure to go with RT. I am not keen on stopping my warfarin - now have MRI booked and appt with consultant to follow. My inclination is no to RT but poss yes to Hormone Therapy if suggested. Thanks for comments

User

Posted 07 Dec 2024 at 20:58

Unfortunately hormone therapy alone will not cure your prostate cancer

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