What is it

Focal therapy is a growing minimally invasive treatment option for patients with low to intermediate risk prostate cancer that is completely contained (localized) within the prostate. An estimated 1.2 million patients are diagnosed with localized prostate cancer each year in the world (source: WHO Global Cancer Observatory (iarc.fr) . Focal therapy may offer the patients a significant improvement over today’s standard of care.

Today’s standard of care opens for Focal Therapy

Two main approaches to managing localized prostate cancer are today considered as standard of care. The first is the so called “active surveillance”. In these patients, regular tests are performed to monitor the development of the cancer. As long as the cancer is stable, no other actions are taken. If the cancer is starting to spread, treatment will be offered. Of those on active surveillance, about one-third end up needing treatment. Being on active surveillance has shown to be mentally stressful for some patients.

The second approach to managing localized prostate cancer is the use of radiation or surgery. This is effective for removing any tumors present but is typically associated with hard-to-live-with side effects such as loss of control over urinary functions (incontinence) and erectile dysfunction.

Focal therapy offers potential significant advantages over standard of care

Focal therapy offers to preserve these vital functions while still treating the cancer effectively. Focal therapy concentrates on treating “the index lesion,” which is usually defined as a tumor visible on MRI. By removing or controlling the growth of the index lesion with focal therapy, the cancer can be managed safely while minimizing side effects.

In a European Urology consensus meeting, it was agreed, with a high level of consensus, that focal therapy should be recommended for intermediate-risk patients (ref: Donaldson et al, 2015).

In “Focal Laser Ablation uses laser fibers to heat and destroys prostatic cancer nodules based on MRI imaging using MRI-Fusion guided targeting. While still investigational, focal laser ablation appears to be a particularly promising minimally invasive treatment modality for well-selected patients with highly localized prostate cancer.”

Laser ablation in Prostate Focal Therapy

CLS TRANBERG^® Thermal Therapy System is used to provide laser focal therapy of localized prostate cancer. The procedure is minimal invasive and performed at a urology or radiology department. Side effects are minimal and typically the patient can return quickly to normal life. 

Image and needle guidance is used for navigating and positioning the sterile introducer and laser applicator at the correct location in the target tissue, using either the transrectal or transperineal access path. The TRANBERG system can be seamlessly integrated with an existing ultrasound system or MR scanner, with a (stereotactic) needle guide system and a workflow close to that used for targeted biopsies. Our solutions for real time monitoring and control of the procedure enable the physician to personalize and optimize the treatment for each patient.