Biodegradable spacer insertion to reduce rectal toxicity during radiotherapy for prostate cancer

Evidence-based recommendations on biodegradable spacer insertion to reduce rectal toxicity during radiotherapy for prostate cancer. This involves pushing the rectum slightly away from the prostate by inserting a balloon or injecting a gel (spacer) between them.

Is this guidance up to date?

Next review: 2026

Guidance development process

How we develop NICE interventional procedures guidance

Coding and clinical classification codes for this guidance.

This guidance replaces NICE interventional procedures guidance on biodegradable spacer insertion to reduce rectal toxicity during radiotherapy for prostate cancer (IPG590).