What Researchers Did
Researchers investigated factors linked to late rectal and bladder toxicity after prostate cancer radiation therapy in 257 patients, and evaluated hyperbaric oxygen therapy for those with severe side effects.
What They Found
Out of 257 patients, 24 (9.3%) developed grade ≥2 late rectal or bladder toxicity, with irradiated rectal volume and dicumarinic treatment identified as significant factors. Among the 14 patients who received HBOT for severe toxicity, the final percentage of patients with persistent grade ≥2 toxicity was reduced to 4.5%.
What This Means for Canadian Patients
For Canadian men undergoing radiation therapy for prostate cancer, this study highlights specific risk factors for severe late rectal and bladder side effects. It suggests that hyperbaric oxygen therapy may be an effective treatment option for those who develop significant grade ≥2 toxicity, potentially reducing persistent symptoms.
Canadian Relevance
This study covers delayed radiation injury, which is a Health Canada-recognized indication for hyperbaric oxygen therapy.
Study Limitations
A limitation is the relatively small number of patients (14) who received hyperbaric oxygen therapy, which limits the generalizability of its effectiveness.