GenesisCare Enrolls First Patients to SpaceOAR Vue Hydrogel Global Clinical Trial

GenesisCare——one of the leading oncology providers in the United States, Australia, Spain and the United Kingdom—today announced enrollment of the first patients in the SpaceOAR Vue™ Hydrogel global clinical trial for prostate cancer patients receiving stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT).

SBRT uses a higher dose of radiation per treatment than traditional radiation therapy, which means fewer sessions are required, alleviating the time-intensive burden of treatment and allowing patients to return to their normal schedules sooner. This high-dose radiation is a highly effective form of cancer treatment, however, it can damage surrounding organs, which may lead to side effects for patients.

The SABRE trial, sponsored by Boston Scientific Corporation, will evaluate the effectiveness of SpaceOAR Vue Hydrogel in reducing late gastrointestinal toxicity and improving the quality of life for patients.

GenesisCare radiation oncologists Dr. Thomas Boike in Troy, Michigan and Dr. John E. Sylvester in Bradenton, Florida, are participating in the trial, and among the first to offer patients access to the hydrogel as part of the trial.

Michigan-based patient Charles Shulte said: “I am grateful for the opportunity to participate in this trial as I was recently diagnosed with prostate cancer by my physician who referred me to GenesisCare for ongoing treatment. I am hopeful this will lessen the effects that I currently have. It’s comforting to know Dr. Boike is going above and beyond to provide me access to the latest treatment, while looking out for my health and safety along the way.”

Prostate cancer is the second leading cause of cancer death in American men. The American Cancer Society reports that one in every 41 men will die from untreated later-stage prostate cancer. One in eight will be diagnosed with the disease during his lifetime.

“Since we use the most advanced and innovative radiotherapy as a standard, we look for ways to extend the effectiveness of SBRT, so a minimal amount of healthy tissue is exposed during treatment,” said Dr. Thomas Boike, MD. “With most patients eager to take action immediately after diagnosis, advances like SpaceOAR Vue Hydrogel from Boston Scientific plays a significant and important role in patients’ quality of life and prostate cancer treatment journey.”

SpaceOAR Vue Hydrogel works hand-in-hand with SBRT prostate cancer treatments by creating a temporary space between the prostate and the rectum, which is designed to reduce the radiation dose to the rectum, minimizing the impact on patients’ urinary, sexual and bowel functions.

“The device helps us position patients correctly while letting us plan prostate treatment doses without using MRIs. It also helps to limit the damage to surrounding organs,” shares Dr. Sylvester, MD. “Testing an innovation like SpaceOAR Vue Hydrogel to minimize treatment side effects, and reduce the need for follow-up care, aligns with our purpose to achieve the best possible life outcomes for our patients.”

GenesisCare Chief Global Medical Officer, Dr. Wally Curran, adds: “GenesisCare’s participation in this clinical trial is one example of how we seek to increase access to innovative research that addresses each individual patient’s needs. Advanced approaches to cancer treatment can positively impact a patient’s treatment plan and, most importantly, their recovery. The opportunity to work with Boston Scientific on this trial creates a chance to design better care options and experiences now and in the future.”