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BioProtect Balloon Spacer for Prostate Cancer Radiation Treatment 

Two surgeons in blue scrubs and surgical masks are performing an operation under bright surgical lights. Text on the left reads "BIOPROTECT BALLOON SPACER Enhancing Precision in Prostate Cancer Radiation Therapy." A white circular logo with geometric shapes is visible on the right side, along with a small "BIOPROTECT" label at the bottom right corner.

What Is the BioProtect Balloon Spacer? 

The BioProtect Balloon Spacer is a next generation, biodegradable device designed to enhance the safety and precision of prostate cancer radiation therapy. Unlike traditional gel spacers, BioProtect uses a balloon-based, non-gel design to create consistent, full separation between the prostate and rectum. 

At Ackerman Cancer Center, a recognized center of excellence for BioProtect, this technology is integrated into an advanced approach focused on delivering safer and more precise radiation therapy, producing better outcomes for our patients.  

Why Spacing Matters in Prostate Cancer Treatment 

In prostate cancer treatment, the rectum lies directly behind the prostate, making it vulnerable to radiation exposure, even with highly advanced Proton Therapy. 

Creating space between these structures helps to minimize rectal radiation dose, reduce gastrointestinal side effects, improve treatment accuracy, and support long term quality of life. 

BioProtect provides reliable, whole gland spacing, which is critical for maximizing the precision of Proton Therapy. 

Ackerman Cancer Center: A Leader in BioProtect and Proton Therapy 

Ackerman Cancer Center is not simply offering BioProtect, it is leading its clinical integration. 

As a center of excellence, Ackerman Cancer Center provides extensive expertise in Proton Therapy for prostate cancer, advanced imaging and treatment planning, early adoption of innovative technologies like BioProtect, and a strong focus on both outcomes and patient quality of life. 

This combination positions Ackerman among a select group of centers delivering highly advanced prostate cancer care. 

Key Benefits of the BioProtect Balloon Spacer 

BioProtect is engineered for precision and reproducibility, delivering consistent spacing from the base to the apex of the prostate. This supports accurate Proton Therapy planning and optimized dose delivery. Clinical evidence suggests that spacing of at least 14 mm across the gland is associated with lower rectal radiation exposure. 

The device also provides reliable coverage at the prostate apex, an area that can be difficult to protect with other spacer technologies. BioProtect has demonstrated consistent apical spacing, full gland coverage, and improved anatomical symmetry. 

Another advantage is its stability and visibility. BioProtect is placed under transrectal ultrasound guidance and is clearly visible on CT, MRI, and ultrasound imaging. The spacing remains stable throughout the full course of Proton Therapy, helping maintain treatment accuracy. 

Clinical and dosimetry studies show that BioProtect significantly reduces radiation exposure to the rectum across multiple treatment approaches. This reduction is especially important when looking at side effects and quality of life outcomes after treatment.  

Preservation of Quality of Life 

Maintaining quality of life is a critical priority in prostate cancer treatment. BioProtect has been associated with improved bowel function, reduced urinary side effects, and preservation of sexual function. 

Long term data show that patients receiving BioProtect experienced better maintenance of bowel, urinary, and sexual quality of life compared with control groups. It is also the only spacer to demonstrate statistically significant preservation of sexual quality of life in long term follow up. 

Designed for Modern Proton Therapy 

Advancements in prostate cancer treatment require consistent and reproducible anatomy to fully leverage precision technologies. BioProtect supports high dose Proton Therapy regimens, efficient workflows, and reduced variability in daily treatment positioning. 

What to Expect During BioProtect Placement 

BioProtect placement is a minimally invasive procedure performed prior to treatment. It is completed under imaging guidance, on-site at Ackerman Cancer Center, by a board-certified radiation oncologist. The spacer remains in place during treatment and is gradually absorbed by the body over time. 

Clinical Evidence Supporting BioProtect 

BioProtect has been evaluated in a multicenter, prospective randomized trial involving 222 men with prostate cancer. Results showed that 97.9 percent of patients achieved significant rectal dose reduction. The average separation between the prostate and rectum was about 19 mm at placement, and 98.5 percent of patients demonstrated full resorption at six months.1 

Long term follow up extending to 48 months demonstrated durable preservation of bowel and urinary function, along with sustained improvements in sexual quality of life.2 

Comparative studies against gel spacers show greater rectal dose reduction, more consistent spacing across the prostate, and superior coverage at the apex.3 

  1. Song, Daniel et al. “Prospective, Randomized Controlled Pivotal Trial of Biodegradable Balloon Rectal Spacer for Prostate Radiation Therapy.” International journal of radiation oncology, biology, physics vol. 120,5 (2024): 1410-1420. doi:10.1016/j.ijrobp.2024.07.2145  
  1. Song, Daniel et al. “Long-term toxicity and patient-reported quality of life after prostate IMRT with or without biodegradable balloon rectal spacer: analysis of a pivotal randomized trial.” Abstract presented at: American Society for Radiation Oncology (ASTRO) 67th Annual Meeting; 2025; San Francisco, CA.  
  1. Kos, Michael et al. “Multicenter, dual fractionation scheme, single core lab comparison of rectal volume dose reduction following injection of two biodegradable perirectal spacers.” Journal of applied clinical medical physics vol. 24,10 (2023): e14086. doi:10.1002/acm2.14086  

Why BioProtect Matters at a Center of Excellence 

At Ackerman Cancer Center, technologies are selected based on measurable clinical benefit. BioProtect enhances the precision of Proton Therapy, improves patient safety, and supports better long-term outcomes. 

This reflects Ackerman’s commitment to delivering best in class prostate cancer care through innovation, expertise, and a focus on the patient experience. 

Is BioProtect Right for You? 

BioProtect may be recommended for patients undergoing Proton Therapy for prostate cancer, particularly when rectal protection is a priority or when high dose treatment approaches are being used. 

A consultation with the radiation oncology team at Ackerman Cancer Center can determine whether this approach is appropriate for your individual treatment plan.

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Arlean Marcellus, BS

Physician Liaison

Arlean Marcellus joined Ackerman Cancer Center in March 2023 and leads physician outreach. She builds and strengthens meaningful partnerships with referring physicians, healthcare facilities, and medical groups, driving growth in patient referrals. Arlean holds a degree in Health Science with a concentration in Public Health from the University of North Florida. Beyond her work, she volunteers with Feeding Northeast Florida. In her free time, Arlean enjoys running, roller skating, and spending time with her family.

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Shelby Goodman, MSW

Oncology Social Worker

Shelby Goodman joined the Ackerman Cancer Center team in January 2023 as the oncology social worker. She earned her bachelor’s and master’s degrees in social work from the University of North Florida and went on to become a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW). With over five years of experience supporting individuals and families in the social work field, her practice focuses on psychosocial support, care coordination, and advocacy to enhance the quality of life for patients and their loved ones. Shelby is a member of the Florida Society of Oncology Social Workers (FSOSW). In her free time, she enjoys reading and spending time with her family and dog.

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Kali Molter, MBA

Community Relations Specialist

Kali Molter joined Ackerman Cancer Center in August 2024 and supports community outreach, marketing initiatives, and engagement efforts. She holds both a Master of Business Administration and a Bachelor of Business Administration in marketing from the University of North Florida. A Jacksonville native and Bishop Kenny alum, Kali is passionate about contributing to and strengthening the local community. She brings experience in hospitality and event management and serves on the Jacksonville Chamber’s NEXTUP JAX Professional Development and Community Engagement committees. Outside of work, Kali enjoys living at the beach, running and yoga, traveling, and is a lifelong Jacksonville Jaguars fan.

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Ceilidgh O'Brien, BS

Patient Relations Manager

Ceilidgh O’Brien is the patient relations manager at Ackerman Cancer Center, where she leads the patient relations team and helps ensure every patient experience is organized, supportive, and welcoming. She oversees scheduling and communications and is passionate about creating efficient processes that help patients and staff feel
informed, supported, and cared for. Ceilidgh earned a Bachelor of Science in health sciences from the University of South Florida in 2024 and values building strong, compassionate connections with both patients and colleagues. A Boston native, Ceilidgh traded snow for sunshine and now spends her free time running with friends
and supporting the Jacksonville Humane Society.

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Tiffany Vaughn, RT (R)(T)

Manager, Radiation Therapy & Imaging

Tiffany Vaughn brings extensive experience and steady leadership to Ackerman Cancer Center, with 24 years of service to the practice. For the past 15 years, she has served in leadership roles, overseeing both radiation therapy and imaging departments with a focus on quality care, collaboration, and operational excellence. Tiffany is a proud
member of the American Society of Radiologic Technologists and the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists. She earned her technologist degree from St.
Vincent’s Medical Center and completed radiation therapy training from Washburn
University. Outside of work, Tiffany enjoys spending time with her family, relaxing in or
around the water, and taking on hands-on projects around her home.

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Vivienne Bennett, MS, RT(R)(M)​

Clinic Manager

Vivienne Bennett joined Ackerman Cancer Center in November 2013 as a mammography technologist and was promoted in 2021 to oncology clinic manager, overseeing clinical operations across all four locations. She provides leadership for daily clinic operations, supports multidisciplinary oncology teams, ensures regulatory and accreditation compliance, and implements operational strategies to improve quality, safety, and patient experience. Vivienne holds a master’s degree in medical radiation sciences from the University of Sydney in Australia and is a member of the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT). Outside of work, she enjoys watching sports, walking, and spending time with friends and family.

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Timothy Scott, RTR, RTT, CMD

Manager, Dosimetry, Facilities, & Research

Tim Scott joined Ackerman Cancer Center in 2003 and brings nearly 40 years of experience in radiation oncology and medical dosimetry operations. He oversees medical dosimetry, facilities, special projects, and research and has played a key role in nearly every building project and major technology launch at the center. Tim is passionate about innovation and the development, construction, and commissioning of advanced treatment technologies, including proton therapy. Beyond his professional work, Tim serves as a worship pastor and is a brass musician. In his free time, he enjoys restoring classic cars and spending time on the lake.

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Greg Sarkisov, BS

Director of Information Technology

Greg Sarkisov joined Ackerman Cancer Center in September 2019 and oversees all
facets of information technology and information security within the organization. Greg has over twenty years of experience in information technology and security. With over six of those years in our practice, he has led initiatives to strengthen our core security and expand the use of various technologies to help aid our staff in providing effective
and efficient patient care. Greg holds a Bachelor of Science degree in information
systems security from ITT Technical Institute. Outside of work, he stays active in the
community and is a member of the IT Council with the Jacksonville Chamber of
Commerce. In his free time, Greg enjoys spending time with his family and friends.

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Jennifer Zelaya, MHA

Director of Human Resources

Jenny Zelaya is the director of human resources at Ackerman Cancer Center and
Ackerman Urology, where she oversees all HR functions and fosters a positive,
inclusive workplace culture. She holds a master’s degree in health administration from the University of Miami and brings extensive experience in talent management, employee engagement, and regulatory compliance. Fluent in Spanish, Jennifer enjoys staying active outside of work, playing pickleball, golfing with friends and family, and spending time with her golden retriever, Lenny.

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Amy Mousa, CPA

Director of Finance and Accounting

Amy Mousa joined Ackerman Cancer Center in November 2021 and serves as the
director of finance and accounting. In her role, she oversees financial operations and supports the organization’s strategic and operational goals. Amy holds a Florida CPA license and earned her Bachelor of Business Administration in accounting from the
University of North Florida. Outside of work, she enjoys staying active, traveling, and
spending quality time with her family.

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Nelson Miksys, PhD, MCCPM

Chief Medical Physicist

Nelson Miksys joined Ackerman Cancer Center in October 2019. As chief medical physicist, Nelson manages the medical physics department, which is responsible for
quality assurance of all patient treatment plans, calibration of the radiation therapy equipment, maintenance of the radiation safety program, integration of new technology
into the clinic, and providing clinical technical support across all aspects of the cancer center. Nelson has over ten years of experience as a medical physicist and comes to Ackerman Cancer Center from The Ottawa Hospital Cancer Centre (Ottawa, Canada). Nelson has a PhD in medical physics from Carleton University (Ottawa, Canada) and a
master’s degree in medical and health physics from McMaster University (Hamilton,
Canada). Outside of work, Nelson is actively involved in his children’s sports activities and community social events and is passionate about maintaining a healthy lifestyle through regular physical fitness and outdoor activities.

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Robert Tokarz, MS, DABR

Vice President, Technical Services

Rob Tokarz joined Ackerman Cancer Center in January 2014 and oversees the Physics, Dosimetry, Therapy, Imaging, IT, and Transcription departments. He holds a Bachelor of Science in physics from Notre Dame and a Master of Science in medical physics from Columbia University. Rob has worked in the field of medical physics for 25 years and has worked previously at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center. Prior to his career in medical physics, Rob was an officer in the United States Navy, where he attained the rank of lieutenant commander. As a naval aviator, he flew Seahawk
helicopters out of Naval Station Mayport and was stationed overseas in Bahrain.

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Gigi Ackerman Schwartz, MBA

Vice President, Operations

Gigi Ackerman Schwartz joined Ackerman Cancer Center in November 2020 and leads strategic planning initiatives across all departments, directs all aspects of revenue cycle management, and works to develop and maintain relationships with community partners. Gigi holds an MBA from Tulane University. A Jacksonville native, she is involved in several local charitable and civic organizations. She serves as chair of the Art in Public Places Committee for the Cultural Council of Greater Jacksonville, is a member of the National Young Leadership Cabinet, and is a trustee of the Jewish Community Alliance and Jacksonville Jewish Center. In her free time, Gigi enjoys playing mahjong, exploring new hobbies with friends, and spending time with her husband and two-year-old daughter.

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Baylee Richter, BS

Community Relations Manager

Baylee Richter joined Ackerman Cancer Center in November 2024 and oversees digital campaigns, brand strategy, and community outreach and engagement. With more than eight years of experience in events and marketing, she has led initiatives that strengthen patient engagement, community awareness, and referral growth. Baylee holds a Bachelor of Science in hospitality and tourism management from Slippery Rock University of Pennsylvania. Outside of work, she stays actively involved in the community through her service on the board of the American Lung Association. She also supports the American Cancer Society’s Cowford Ball as a member of the children’s art project committee and contributes to the Jacksonville Chamber’s NEXTUP JAX program, serving on two committees. In her free time, Baylee enjoys spending time with her Australian Shepherd, Cooper, and cheering on the Pittsburgh Steelers.