In a groundbreaking study, Australian researchers have proven the safety and effectiveness of using stabilised hyaluronic acid (sHA) gel during radiation therapy for gynaecological cancers. This gel, already approved for prostate cancer treatment in Australia, was used to create space between tumours and the rectum during MRI-guided brachytherapy. By increasing this space, doctors aimed to reduce radiation exposure to the rectum, allowing for more precise tumor targeting and potentially better treatment outcomes.
The team, led by experts from Monash University, conducted the first-ever investigation of hyaluronic acid gel in women for this purpose. Dr. Carminia Lapuz, from Monash University, highlighted the study’s significance in potentially enhancing outcomes for gynaecological cancer patients. The research, published in the Journal of Medical Radiation Sciences, demonstrated the safety and feasibility of using sHA gel to improve brachytherapy for these cancers.
In a study involving 12 patients, doctors found the gel easy to use and visible on MRI scans, ensuring accurate positioning throughout treatment. Patients reported no discomfort with the spacer, and no complications related to the gel were observed. The gel effectively increased the distance between tumors and the rectum for all patients, remaining in place during brachytherapy and gradually dissolving in the body over time.
The study did not assess long-term side effects or changes in radiation dose to the rectum but confirmed the safety and feasibility of using sHA gel as a spacer in gynaecological cancer treatment. This innovative approach holds the potential to enhance quality of life, minimize side effects, and provide more effective cancer care for women globally.
