Radiotherapy Support Procedures for Prostate Cancer – Precision Steps for Safer Treatment in Kuala Lumpur
Radiotherapy is a common and effective option for treating localized or advanced prostate cancer. To improve safety, accuracy, and outcomes, certain preparatory procedures may be performed beforehand. These include placing a rectal spacer like Barrigel™, fiducial marker insertion, and other techniques that protect healthy tissue and enhance radiation targeting.
Dr. Roger works closely with your oncology team to coordinate these minimally invasive procedures, helping ensure you receive safe and personalised care in Kuala Lumpur.
Key Radiotherapy Support Services
Barrigel® Rectal Spacer Placement
A soft, biodegradable gel injected between the prostate and rectum to create space and protect the bowel during radiation. This helps lower the risk of rectal bleeding, urgency, and bowel dysfunction after treatment.
Fiducial Marker Insertion
Tiny gold markers are inserted into the prostate under local or light anaesthesia to act as reference points during radiotherapy. They improve beam targeting accuracy and help reduce radiation exposure to surrounding tissues.
Pre-Radiotherapy Prostate Assessment
Comprehensive evaluation that may include PSA testing, prostate size measurement (via MRI or ultrasound), and biopsy if needed. Ensures accurate diagnosis and tailored radiotherapy planning.
Catheterisation or Spacer Planning for Complex Anatomy
For men with challenging pelvic anatomy, temporary catheter insertion or custom adjustments may be used to optimise prostate positioning and improve treatment accuracy.
Radiotherapy Support
– Frequently Asked Questions
1. Why are additional procedures needed before radiotherapy?
Support procedures like Barrigel® spacers or fiducial marker insertion help protect nearby organs, improve the precision of radiation delivery, and reduce long-term side effects. These steps enhance safety and treatment accuracy.
2. Is rectal spacer placement painful?
The procedure is usually done under spinal or general anaesthesia and takes about 30 minutes. Most patients go home the same day. Mild perineal discomfort for 1–2 days is common but manageable.
3. What are fiducial markers made of, and are they safe?
Fiducials are small, sterile gold seeds that are biocompatible and safe. They stay in the prostate permanently and do not interfere with urination, sexual function, or future imaging.
4. Do these procedures delay my cancer treatment?
No. These procedures are typically scheduled before radiotherapy starts and form part of routine planning. Your doctor and the radiotherapy team will coordinate them to avoid treatment delays.
5. Do I need all these procedures?
Not always. The need depends on your anatomy, cancer stage, and planned treatment type. Some men may require only a rectal spacer, some only fiducial markers, and others may proceed without either based on clinical judgment.
6. Will the fiducial markers or spacer affect my MRI or CT scans?
No. Fiducial markers are designed to be MRI- and CT-compatible. They are small and non-ferromagnetic, so they do not interfere with imaging or cause safety concerns during future scans.
7. How long do the rectal spacer and markers stay in place?
Fiducial markers are permanent and stay in the prostate indefinitely. The Barrigel® spacer is biodegradable — it gradually dissolves and is naturally absorbed by the body over several months.
8. Can these procedures be done at the same time?
Yes. In many cases, the rectal spacer placement and fiducial marker insertion are performed during the same session under one anaesthetic to minimise downtime and discomfort.
📍 Radiotherapy Support Procedures Available at Prince Court Medical Centre, Kuala Lumpur with Dr. Roger
🗓️ Services such as Barrigel® rectal spacer placement and fiducial marker insertion are available in coordination with your oncology team.
📞 For appointments and coordination, please contact Prince Court Medical Centre:
📱 WhatsApp: +6012-999 7262
📞 Call: +603 2160 0000
📧 For professional referrals or administrative matters, email: contact@drrogerurologist.com
or Visit the Contact Page
