A MEDICAL centre in Littlemore is one of the first in the UK to offer a new type of radiotherapy for cancer patients.

One of the worst parts of a prostate cancer diagnosis are the side effects of radiotherapy, which can include incontinence and impotence.

But now an innovative new treatment called spaceOAR (Organ At Risk) which greatly reduces these risks is being used at GenesisCare, in Sandy Lane West.

They are among the first centres in the UK to out the treatment which uses an absorbable hydrogel to temporarily create space between the prostate and the rectum, protecting the rectum from radiation exposure during prostate radiation therapy.

Director of Business Development at GenesisCare Paul Gearing said: "It makes things much safer meaning the side effects risk is lessened.

"It's really important for the more hidden risks like sexual impotence and urinary problems that many men won't complain about but have a big impact."

GenesisCare have been working with Nuffield Health to carry out the procedure and Mr Gearing anticipated eventually 50 men could benefit from the hydrogel each year in Oxford.

The Littlemore centre has also been leading the way in another pioneering treatment, becoming one of the first in Europe to offer Surface Guided Radiation Therapy (SGRT).

This precise method of providing radiotherapy means it is far safer than traditional treatment, monitoring the patient for any small change in position via 3D imaging.

When it was first rolled out in September, clinical lead at GenesisCare Jacqui Dorney explained: "SGRT is the most advanced form of radiotherapy treatment in the UK which reduces radiation being directed to healthy cells.

"Although the technique is available to treat all cancer types, this is a particularly crucial method for left-sided breast cancer patients to ensure that no radiation is administered to the heart."

Mr Gearing said it was now standard for all patients at the Oxford clinic and would be used in combination with spaceOAR.

He explained: "They are both an extra level of cushioning and safety for the patient making it easier for the doctor and better for the patient."

He added the Oxford clinic would continue to be a hub of innovation, with clinical trials to test chemotherapy drugs due to take place later this month.

GenesisCare has centres across the UK, including in Nottingham, Milton Keynes and Maidenhead.

The Oxford clinic is a comprehensive centre meaning it deals with diagnosis and treatment.

This article was altered on Feb 7. The London Clinic was the first hospital in the UK to carry out SpaceOAR insertions​. We are happy to make that clear.