August 2025
Teleflex Incorporated, a global medical technology company, is launching Barrigel(TM) rectal spacer in Japan. They are marking a significant new entry point into the prostate cancer care market and the largest oncology market in Asia. Its launch is based on the regulatory clearance by the Japanese Pharmaceuticals and Medical Devices Agency (PMDA), insurance coverage acceptance, and support of the Japanese leading academic societies for the use of appropriate criteria. These milestones mean that BarrigelTM is commercially available and, indeed, the first patient cases have been treated with it earlier this month.
Barrigel TM is the only and first sculptable non-animal stabilized hyaluronic acid (NASHA) and rectal spacer to help protect the rectum during radiation therapy in prostate cancer. BarrigelTM provides a physician with real-time control of the site and shape of an implant, resulting in the symmetry of its spacing between the rectum and prostate. The given innovation leads to great clinical benefits, such as the minimization of acute and long-term gastrointestinal (GI) toxicities that are typical of prostate cancer radiation therapy.
As to the future, Teleflex sees Barrigel as the gold standard for rectal spacing anywhere. It has a unique design, successful clinical research, and simplicity, making the product a landmark in the sphere. The fact that it was introduced in Japan shows that the company is capable of introducing innovation-based medical technology in new markets and fostering patient care in new markets. Furthermore, Teleflex invests in clinical research, physician training, and international cooperation to increase prostate cancer accessibility to this technology in regions with high rates of prostate cancer.
Liam Kelly, Chairman, President, and CEO of Teleflex
“Japan's commercialization represents a key milestone in our global expansion strategy for the Barrigel rectal spacer. This launch supports our mission to offer the next-generation, NASHA rectal spacer that enables precise, symmetrical placement—providing physicians with effective and proven control over the shape and positioning of the implant. We remain committed to making Barrigel the standard of care for men undergoing prostate cancer radiation therapy.”
August 2025
August 2025
August 2025
August 2025