merwether, Yes had SpaceOar gel injected. It was done with local anesthesia.

When I would finish my proton radiation treatment they would be getting ready for next patient and I would see the balloon they use for those without SpaceOar. I am glad I got it and not have to go through that every time and also cuts down the time you are being treated. Most time (sometimes that have to make adjustments to beam and that is where markers are important) entire time on table less than 10 minutes.

I had the SpaceOar and Markers done at UFPTI. What they do is put some type of lanacane gel in the transperinial (that is area they use) area, and then lanacane injections. Then they have you inhale laughing gas. It is self administered to calm you down.

I did not feel anything other than pressure. I used the laughing gas at first but stopped as did not need it. The gold markers (put on prostrate to get specific line up of proton beam) put in at same time. A urologist does this and quite frankly went more easier and pain free than I thought.

I asked Connie (moderator) about secure messaging if you would like that. I could get your e-mail or phone number via that and we can converse that way if you like. I don't mind either way. I wish I had had someone who had gone to UFPTI and gone through this.

But if you have not gotten their (UFPTI) package (they will Fedex to you) please do as it is great information. Mayo Clinic Jacksonville has photon radiation treatments I think called SBRT which is a upgraded and more controlled radiation treatment and is very good as well.

I just chose to go with Proton to help lesson radiation damage as much as possible.