Radiation oncologist Sang Sim, M.D.
Long Branch, NJ, August 9, 2023 – Monmouth Medical Center (MMC) has been designated a Center of Excellence in the use of the first and only FDA-approved sculptable gel rectal spacer proven to reduce the unwanted side effects of radiation therapy for prostate cancer treatment.
Barrigel, an injectable biodegradable hyaluronic acid that separates the prostate from the rectum to protect the healthy tissue during radiation therapy treatment for prostate cancer, may benefit men diagnosed with prostate cancer. Occurring in about one in eight men, prostate cancer is the second most common cancer among men in the U.S. While the majority of men diagnosed survive due to the availability of highly effective treatment options, including radiation, the quality of life of these cancer survivors may decline due to negative side effects from radiation exposure to healthy surrounding tissue.
The Barrigel Center of Excellence program recognizes doctors such as MMC Radiation Oncologist Sang Sim, M.D., who have achieved exceptional clinical expertise in the procedure and are steadfast in their dedication to patient education and improving outcomes. Physicians designated as Centers of Excellence have completed additional advanced technique training and demonstrated a high degree of procedure skill and experience.
Dr. Sim, an RWJBarnabas Health Medical Group physician, notes that this new designation is a part of MMC’s commitment to offer the latest technology to improve each patient’s quality of life.
“This designation as a Barrigel Center of Excellence is an important recognition for us and reflects our deep commitment to offering our patients the highest quality care,” he said. “While radiation therapy is a beneficial treatment option for many prostate cancer patients, the radiation beams can affect surrounding healthy tissue, such as the rectum, which may result in unwanted side effects. This cutting-edge spacing technology addresses the limitations of current spacing materials by offering patient-specific customization with the ability to sculpt the spacer for optimal rectal coverage, resulting in patient-tailored results.”
MMC’s Prostate Cancer Program offers more than 20 years’ experience in uro-radiation implant therapy and nurse navigators to help men throughout the entire process – from diagnosis and treatment through recovery. As part of RWJBarnabas Health and in partnership with Rutgers Cancer Institute of New Jersey, the state’s only National Cancer Institute-designated Comprehensive Cancer Center, patients have access to the most advanced radiation oncology treatment options.
To learn more or to schedule a new patient appointment, call 844-CANCERNJ (844-226-2376).