21st Century Oncology is Seeking Prostate Cancer Patients to Participate in New Investigational Study

Fort Myers, FL, May 03, 2012 --(PR.com)-- If you have been diagnosed with prostate cancer and radiation therapy has been suggested as a treatment option, you may be a candidate for a new investigational study being conducted by Dr. Constantine Mantz, at 21st Century Oncology.

The SpaceOAR™ System Clinical Study is evaluating the effectiveness of SpaceOAR hydrogel as a means of protecting organs adjacent to the prostate from exposure to radiation during treatment. Two-thirds of the patients participating in the study will be treated with the SpaceOAR gel, and one-third will not receive the gel. The decision as to which patients will receive the gel will be made randomly.

“The issue being studied, is whether or not the hydrogel can effectively protect the rectum from radiation damage during treatment,” according to Dr. Mantz. “The use of the gel is being combined with extremely targeted radiation therapy. Fiducial markers are tiny gold seeds placed within the prostate before image-guided intensity modulated radiation therapy (IG-IMRT). The markers actually appear on x-rays, helping your physician to accurately see the area where they are delivering radiation. This can be extremely important because the prostate can move. With the markers in place, your doctor will take an x-ray prior to delivering radiation therapy, ensuring accurate delivery of the treatment to the affected area.”

Patients participating in the study will return for follow-up visits at three, six, 12 and 15 months after the procedure. Patients interested in participating in the study will undergo a thorough screening process to determine whether or not they are eligible for the study. During this screening period, the study will be carefully explained and detailed information will be provided. There is no additional cost to participate in the study.

For more information, contact Study Coordinator Cathy Bostwick, R.N. at (239) 848-7362.

About 21st Century Oncology
Headquartered in Fort Myers, 21st Century Oncology, Inc. is a leading developer and operator of radiation therapy centers in the U.S. For 30 years, 21st Century Oncology has been committed to providing premier, quality, cost-effective radiation therapy services that are responsive to the needs of its patients through continuous improvement and innovation. The company operates in 16 states and has more than 20 offices in Southwest Florida.

For further information, contact:
Sherri Kubesh, 239-839-6015 cell, or skubesh@rtsx.com
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21st Century Oncology
Carolyn Rogers
239-278-3900
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