Evaluation of the changes in hydrogel spacer volume in patients treated with proton therapy for prostate cancer.

[BACKGROUND] Rectal bleeding is a recognized late complication of radiation therapy in the treatment of prostate cancer, and hydrogel spacers have been used to prevent this adverse effect. Previous reports have indicated that the volume of hydrogel spacers remains stable for at least 3 months after implantation [1]; however, no cases of early resolution have been reported. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the hydrogel spacer volume changes over time.

[METHODS] We included 103 patients implanted with hydrogel spacers who underwent proton therapy at our hospital between April 2020 and November 2022. Two patients were excluded due to improper hydrogel spacer placement beyond the prostatic side of Denonvilliers' fascia. To examine the volume of Space OAR, we measured the spacer volume using magnetic resonance imaging at the time of dosimetry treatment planning and again at 7 and 21 fractions in the remaining 101 patients.

[RESULTS] Among the 101 patients, four exhibited a significant reduction in spacer volume at 21 fractions, and one of these patients experienced rectal bleeding.

[CONCLUSION] Unexpected early changes in the hydrogel spacer volume may increase rectal exposure from the time of radiation planning.

[CLINICAL TRIAL NUMBER] Not applicable.