PINEHURST, N.C. – FirstHealth Moore Regional Hospital is now using the Barrigel Prostate Spacer to reduce risk and improve outcomes for patients undergoing radiation for prostate cancer.
Advanced Prostate Cancer Radiation Treatment in Pinehurst, NC
The injectable gel is designed to create additional space between the prostate and rectum during radiation treatment, reducing exposure to radiation and minimizing side effects.
How the Barrigel Prostate Spacer Works
“The Barrigel spacer gel expands in the space between the prostate and rectum, physically pushing the rectum away from the prostate gland,” said Dr. Sushma Patel, a radiation oncologist and co-medical director of the FirstHealth Cancer Center. “The spacer offers real-time versatility in administration to ensure accurate tissue separation. In our practice, we have noted decreased rectal irritation and side effects.”
FirstHealth began using the spacer in 2024 and has placed more than 100 of them through early 2026.
Key Benefits of the Barrigel Rectal Spacer
- Enhanced Safety: By increasing the distance between the prostate and rectum, Barrigel significantly lowers the risk of rectal injury.
- Improved Quality of Life: Patients experience fewer gastrointestinal side effects, such as bleeding or bowel changes.
- Biodegradable & Absorbable: The gel naturally breaks down and is absorbed by the body over time, eliminating the need for removal.
- Customizable Placement: Barrigel’s formulation allows precise shaping for optimal protection.
Why It Matters for Prostate Cancer Patients
Radiation therapy is a common treatment for prostate cancer, but nearby organs can be affected. Dr. Patel said the use of the Barrigel spacer is another example of how coordinated care at the Cancer Center helps improve outcomes and patient experience.
“The coordinated effort of the procedure before radiation treatment planning has been excellent between our departments,” she said. “We are incredibly fortunate to have the skill and expertise of our radiologists, interventional radiology staff and the support of the Ultrasound department. Our prostate cancer treatment program has been strengthened by the coordination of these services for patient care.”
Cancer Care at FirstHealth
FirstHealth delivers high-quality, compassionate cancer care that's close to home. From diagnosis through treatment and into recovery, our multidisciplinary team walks alongside patients as they fight their illness.
Our comprehensive cancer center opened in 2023, allowing us to serve patients under one roof in Pinehurst.
