a balloon can save prostate cancer patients from impotence

Treatment for prostate cancer can cause debilitating side-effects, including incontinence, a loss of libido and impotence. Now, doctors have developed a technique for reducing the risk of this happening - using a small balloon.

The balloon is placed next to the prostate. It is then filled with fluid until about the size of a peach. This acts as a shield for the healthy tissue.

Scientists believe the new treatment, known as the SpaceGuard Balloon, will reduce this risk. It is designed to create space around the prostate, pushing healthy tissue out of the radiotherapy’s line of fire.