PuraStat is effective and safe in real-world radiation proctopathy

PuraStat, a novel treatment option for patients with radiation proctopathy, showed excellent real-world effectiveness and safety. The study's authors described it as a potential paradigm shift in the management of radiation proctopathy.

According to Dr Muhammad Husnain Khizar (Havering and Redbridge University Hospitals, UK), about 20% of patients undergoing pelvic radiotherapy suffer from radiation proctopathy [1]. Argon plasma coagulation (APC) remains the current standard-of-care, but it carries a high recurrence rate and notable procedural risks. “We need safer, durable, and non-thermal alternatives,” said Dr Husnain Khizar. PuraStat is a synthetic, self-assembling peptide hydrogel that promotes haemostasis and mucosal healing. “It is non-thermal, biocompatible, and easy to apply,” he explained.

In a real-world, prospective series, 100 patients with chronic radiation proctopathy were evaluated: 50 received de novo PuraStat treatment, while the remaining 50 switched from APC to PuraStat. “After 6 months of follow-up, we observed complete symptomatic relief in both cohorts,” reported Dr Husnain Khizar. Moreover, 92% of patients in the ‘de novo’ group achieved mucosal healing. The mean number of PuraStat sessions was 1.3 to 1.5 per patient. Importantly, no adverse events such as perforation, infection, or pain were reported. “We also observed excellent outcomes in patients with refractory radiation-associated vascular ectasias (RAVE),” he added.

In conclusion, PuraStat appears to be a safe and effective first-line therapy or rescue therapy following APC in patients with radiation proctopathy. It may promote mucosal healing while minimising the need for repeat procedures.

1. Husnain Khizar M, et al. Transforming radiation proctopathy management: real-world evidence on PuraStat. LB13, Colorectal ESD: The better way? UEG Week, 4-7 October 2025, Berlin, Germany.

Medical writing support was provided by Robert van den Heuvel.
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Posted on 8 October 20258 October 2025