The gel, which is already approved by Australia's Therapeutic Goods Administration for use in prostate cancer radiation treatment, may prove to a path-breaking in the treatment
Image for representational purpose only. Photo Courtesy: File pic
Scientists are In the constant research for treatment of different types of cancers, and in the most recent development, there may be hope. In a first-ever study by Australian researchers has demonstrated that the feasibility and safety of using stabilised hyaluronic acid (sHA) gel during radiation treatment can be helpful for gynaecological cancers.
The gel, which is already approved by Australia's Therapeutic Goods Administration for use in prostate cancer radiation treatment, may prove to a path-breaking in the treatment.
The team, who made the discovery, was led by experts from Monash University who investigated hyaluronic acid gel for the first time in women, as a means to gently create more space between the tumour and the rectum during MRI-guided brachytherapy -- a type of internal radiation treatment.
By creating this space, clinicians aimed to reduce radiation exposure to the rectum, allowing a higher dose of radiation to reach the tumour with more effective targeting, thus reducing damage to healthy tissue, and potentially improving treatment results.
As reported by IANS, Dr Carminia Lapuz from Monash University, said "This study is a world-first in exploring stabilised hyaluronic acid (sHA) gel's potential to improve outcomes for patients undergoing brachytherapy for gynaecological cancers. Our findings show the procedure is safe, feasible, and offers promising technical advantages."
"By increasing the distance between the tumour and the rectum, we hope to pave the way for safer, more effective treatments and greater equity in cancer care," Lapuz added.
The study, published in the Journal of Medical Radiation Sciences, was conducted on 12 patients. Doctors found the gel easy to use and clearly visible on MRI scans, making it simple to check its position throughout treatment; and importantly, the patients felt no discomfort with the spacer. No complications were reported related to the gel.
The gel increased the distance between the tumour and the rectum for all 12 patients and safely stayed in place during the course of brachytherapy.
The Hyaluronic acid gel dissolves safely in the body over time, as shown through its existing use in prostate cancer treatment.
While this study did not look at long-term side effects or changes in radiation dose to the rectum, it shows that using sHA gel as a spacer is safe and feasible for people with gynaecological cancer.
By reducing radiation exposure to healthy tissue and enabling better targeting of tumours, the study highlights that this approach has the potential to improve quality of life, minimise long-term side effects, and deliver more effective cancer care for women worldwide.
(With inputs from IANS)
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