Barrigel rectal spacer for prostate cancer in Kuala Lumpur
Barrigel® is a soft, biodegradable rectal spacer designed to protect the rectum during radiation therapy for prostate cancer. By creating distance between the prostate and rectum, Barrigel reduces radiation exposure to the bowel — helping to lower the risk of side effects and improve long-term quality of life.
This rectal spacer procedure is often performed as part of treatment planning for external beam radiotherapy (EBRT) or stereotactic body radiotherapy (SBRT) in prostate cancer care.
Why Consider a Rectal Spacer?
Because the prostate sits directly in front of the rectum, radiation therapy may unintentionally expose the bowel to radiation. This can lead to side effects such as:
Diarrhoea or frequent bowel movements
Rectal discomfort or bleeding (Risks: 1 in 10 )
Bloating, urgency, or changes in stool habits
Long-term bowel sensitivity
A rectal spacer, such as Barrigel, helps reduce these risks by physically separating the rectum from the treatment zone during prostate cancer radiotherapy.
What Is Barrigel®?
Barrigel is a biodegradable, hyaluronic acid-based rectal spacer for prostate cancer designed to protect the rectum during radiotherapy. It is:
Biocompatible and naturally absorbed by the body over time
Customisable in shape and volume, offering precise spacing
Designed for durable separation throughout the course of radiotherapy
Fully absorbed in approximately 6–9 months after placement
Unlike other pre-shaped spacers, Barrigel allows controlled and tailored placement for each patient’s anatomy.
Who May Benefit from a Rectal Spacer?
Men undergoing radiotherapy for prostate cancer
Patients with low to intermediate-risk disease
Those seeking to minimise bowel-related side effects
Individuals with pre-existing bowel sensitivity or inflammatory bowel conditions
Patients concerned about preserving bowel and urinary quality of life
Suitability is determined through consultation with your urologist and radiation oncologist as part of personalised prostate cancer care planning.
How Is It Placed?
Performed under spinal, or general anaesthesia
A needle is inserted via the perineum under ultrasound guidance
The gel is injected precisely between the prostate and rectum
The procedure typically takes less than 30 minutes
Patients are usually discharged the same day
Benefits of Rectal Spacer
Reduces rectal radiation dose and lowers the risk of bowel injury
Customisable placement for optimal protection
Well tolerated with minimal discomfort
No permanent material left behind — gel naturally absorbs after treatment
Helps maintain bowel function and quality of life after radiotherapy
What to Expect After the Procedure
Most patients resume normal activities within 1–2 days
Mild perineal pressure or bruising may occur temporarily
The spacer remains in place throughout your course of radiotherapy
No special care is needed — it dissolves naturally over time
Location & Appointments
Barrigel rectal spacer placement for prostate cancer radiotherapy will be available starting June 2025 at Prince Court Medical Centre, Kuala Lumpur. Patients seeking precision-based prostate cancer care can consult Dr. Roger, urologist in Kuala Lumpur, for personalised treatment planning. Referrals are warmly welcomed.
To book an appointment, kindly contact Prince Court Medical Centre via WhatsApp at +6012-999 7262 or call +603 2160 0000. You can also book an appointment online here.
For professional referrals or coordination, please email the website administrator at contact@drrogerurologist.comor click here to contact us.
