Biodegradable Balloon to Revolutionize Rectal Protection from Toxicity during Prostate Cancer Radiation Therapy

BioProtect Ltd.’s (Tzur Yigal, Israel) BioProtect Balloon Implant System is an implantable, biodegradable balloon that creates a defined, enclosed distance to minimize radiation exposure to the rectum during prostate radiation therapy. Through its distinct design, the new generation balloon achieves up to 18mm separation between the rectal wall and the treatment area prior to initiating radiation therapy. The implantation process involves a minimally invasive, needle-free insertion technique for guiding the balloon using ultrasound with either local or general anesthesia. Once in place between the prostate and rectum, the balloon is filled with sterile saline and positioned to achieve its final, well-defined configuration.

By maintaining a consistent separation between the prostate and rectum, the balloon remains visible across various imaging modalities including CT, MRI, and ultrasound. It forms a protective barrier, allowing for safe radiation therapy. The balloon maintains its size and shape within the body throughout the radiation course, naturally biodegrading over time (typically within six months after implantation), thus negating the need for a separate removal procedure. The BioProtect Balloon Implant System has received clearance from the US FDA.

"We believe that our balloon has the potential to revolutionize rectal protection from toxicity during prostate cancer radiation therapy," said Itay Barnea, CEO of BioProtect. "Not only does it provide better protection to healthy organs, it also supports dose escalation and hypofractionation, which are leading trends in prostate cancer radiation therapy."

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BioProtect Ltd.