Gland Ablation Research Articles

Comparative study of HIFU partial gland ablation and robot-assisted radical prostatectomy for localized prostate cancer: an evidence-based approach.

This research aims to use a data-driven analytical method to compare the effectiveness of High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound (HIFU) partial gland ablation with Robot-Assisted Radical Prostatectomy (RARP) for treating localized prostate cancer, evaluating variations in treatment results. We performed a systematic review of the literature, covering key databases including the Cochrane Library, PubMed, EMBASE, Web of Science, and Google Scholar, with the latest information updated until August 2024. We utilized Stata 18 for data analysis, computing weighted mean differences (WMDs) for continuous data and odds ratios (ORs) for categorical data, with all results reported alongside 95% confidence intervals (CIs). Additionally, the studies included were evaluated using the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale (NOS). This meta-analysis incorporated data from three paired studies, encompassing a total of 1,503 patients. Patients treated with HIFU experienced a shorter hospital stay (WMD = -2.78, 95%CI -5.14,-0.43; p = 0.02) compared to those who received RARP. Additionally, evaluations at 3 and 12months post-surgery revealed that the HIFU group exhibited better recovery in urinary continence and sexual function than the RARP group. However, there were no notable disparities in complication rates (OR = 1.48, 95%CI 0.92,2.40; p = 0.110) and the requirement for salvage therapy (OR = 2.92, 95%CI 0.60,14.33; p = 0.186) between the two treatment methods. In conclusion, this meta-analysis appears to suggest potential benefits of HIFU partial gland ablation in possibly reducing the length of hospital stays and seems to indicate that it might be associated with improved recovery in terms of urinary incontinence and sexual function, particularly during the early to mid-term postoperative period. Although the differences in complication rates and the requirement for salvage therapy between the two surgical methods were not statistically significant, the findings provided by this analysis are instrumental in guiding clinical decision-making.

MRI accuracy for recurrence after partial gland ablation with HIFU for localized prostate cancer. A systematic review and meta-analysis.

Prostate cancer remains the most frequently diagnosed cancer among men. High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound (HIFU) has emerged as a thermal ablative technique for partial-gland-ablation (PGA), aiming to minimize collateral damage while maximizing tumor control. Monitoring after HIFU PGA relies on serial PSA testing, multiparametric-MRI, and biopsies. The diagnostic accuracy of MRI for clinically-significant cancer(csPCa) recurrence is challenging. This systematic review and meta-analysis aim to evaluate the accuracy of MRI in detecting early recurrence of localized prostate cancer following HIFU PGA. Adhering to PRISMA guidelines, a comprehensive literature search was conducted until May 8th 2024 using MEDLINE and Scopus. The inclusion criteria encompassed randomized controlled trials and cohort studies involving men diagnosed with localized prostate cancer who had as primary treatment HIFU PGA. The primary outcome measures included the sensitivity, specificity, positive-predictive value (PPV), and negative-predictive value (NPV) of MRI for csPCa(ISUP ≥ 2) based on biopsy results. We pooled data from studies with sufficient csPCa and csPCa-free patients (≥5) post HIFU for statistical analysis. Fifteen studies meet the inclusion criteria, encompassing 1093 patients and 12 studies were eligible for meta-analysis. MRI sensitivity in detecting clinically-significant prostate cancer (csPCa) recurrence post HIFU PGA varied widely (0-89%), with a pooled sensitivity of 0.52 (95% CI:0.36-0.68). Specificity ranged from 44% to 100%, with a pooled specificity of 0.81 (95% CI:0.68-0.91). The pooled NPV was 0.82 (95% CI:0.72-0.90), and the pooled PPV was 0.50 (95% CI:0.35-0.65). Three studies reported in-field diagnostic performance with sensitivities ranging from 0.42 to 0.80 and specificities from 0.45 to 0.97. MRI accuracy for clinically-significant recurrence after partial gland ablation with HIFU for localized prostate cancer shows low diagnostic performance in the treated lobe with pooled sensitivity of 0.52 (95% CI:0.36-0.68) and specificity of 0.81 (95% CI:0.68-0.91). Limits of this review include the low number of studies reporting about site of recurrence in or out of the treated lobe.

Whole gland versus partial gland ablation in patients with localized prostate cancer treated by high-intensity focused ultrasound ablation

BackgroundFocal therapy is considered one of the treatment options for localized prostate cancer (PCa), particularly for low or very-low-risk patients. In this study, we compared the mid-term oncological outcomes in localized PCa patients treated with high-intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU). MethodsWe retrospectively analyzed 237 patients who underwent HIFU for localized PCa. Patients were divided into two groups based on ablation type: whole gland ablation (WGA) and partial gland ablation (PGA). Follow-up biopsies were performed after one year postoperatively, and the oncological outcomes were compared between the groups. ResultsAmong the total of 237 patients, 54 subjects were treated by WGA and 183 subjects by PGA. After one year postoperatively, follow-up biopsies were conducted on 199 patients, revealing residual cancer in 21.4% of WGA group and 15.3% of PGA group. Additionally, clinically significant (CS) cancer was observed in 14.3% of WGA group and 8.3% of PGA group. Survival analyses revealed significantly longer failure-free (P < 0.001) and salvage-free survival (P < 0.001) in WGA group than in PGA group. Similarly, in the intermediate—high risk group, WGA group exhibited longer failure-free (P = 0.005) and salvage-free survival (P < 0.001). ConclusionHIFU was performed with acceptable oncological outcomes in localized PCa. Despite higher proportion of high-risk patients in WGA group, WGA was associated with significantly better failure-free survival and salvage-free survival. Further prospective and multi-center studies are warranted.

Select black men are potential candidates for prostate hemi-ablation based on radical prostatectomy histopathology for intermediate-risk prostate cancer-a multicenter SEARCH cohort study.

Partial gland ablation (PGA) is increasingly popular as a treatment for men with intermediate-risk prostate cancer (IR-PCa) to preserve functional outcomes while controlling their cancer. We aimed to determine the impact of race and clinical characteristics on the risk of upstaging (≥pT2c) and having adverse pathological outcomes including seminal vesicle invasion (SVI), extra prostatic extension (EPE) and lymph node invasion (LNI) at radical prostatectomy (RP) among men with IR disease eligible for PGA with hemi-ablation (HA). Retrospective analysis. Multicenter. We studied patients diagnosed with unilateral IR-PCa treated with RP between 1988 and 2020 at 9 different Veterans Affairs hospitals within the SEARCH cohort. We analyzed differences in clinicopathological characteristics and outcome variables (odds of ≥pT2c and SVI, EPE and LNI) by race using multivariable logistic regression after adjusting for covariates. Among 3127 patients, 33% were African American (AA) men with unilateral IR-PCa undergoing RP. Compared to non-AA men, AA individuals were younger (61 vs. 65 years, p < 0.001), presented with a higher prostate specific antigen (PSA) category (≥10 ng/ml; 34 vs. 26%, p < 0.001), and had a lower clinical stage (p < 0.001). Among the 2,798 (89.5%) with ≥pT2c stage, AA men exhibited higher ≥ pT2c rates (93 vs. 89%, p < 0.001), primarily due to increased pT2c staging (64 vs. 57%), where upstaging beyond pT2 was lower than non-AA men (29 vs. 32%). On multivariable analysis, AA men were found to have higher odds of ≥pT2c (odds ratio [OR]: 1.39 CI, 1.02-1.88, p = 0.04), lower odds of EPE (OR: 0.73 CI, 0.58-0.91, p < 0.01) and no statistically significant associations with LNI (OR: 0.79 CI, 0.42-1.46, p = 0.45) and SVI (OR: 1 CI, 0.74-1.35, p = 0.99) compared to non-AA men. On multivariable analysis, clinical features associated with higher odds of ≥pT2c were pre-operative PSA ≥ 15 (OR = 2.07, P = 0.01) and higher number of positive cores (HPC) on biopsy (OR = 1.36, P < 0.001). Similarly, PSA ≥ 15, Gleason grade ≥3 and HPC on biopsy were associated with higher odds of SVI, EPE and LNI, respectively. In men with IR-PCa undergoing RP, AA men demonstrated an overall higher likelihood of ≥pT2c with lower upstaging beyond pT2, lower likelihood of EPE and no significant difference in likelihood of SVI and LNI compared to non-AA men. These findings support select AA men to be potential candidates for PGA, such as HA. Clinical factors are predictive of higher pathological stage and adverse pathological outcomes at RP and could be considered when selecting candidates for PGA.

Intraoperative margin assessment with near real time pathology during partial gland ablation of prostate cancer: A feasibility study

BackgroundIn-field or in-margin recurrence after partial gland cryosurgical ablation (PGCA) of prostate cancer (PCa) remains a limitation of the paradigm. Stimulated Raman histology (SRH) is a novel microscopic technique allowing real time, label-free, high-resolution microscopic images of unprocessed, un-sectioned tissue which can be interpreted by humans or artificial intelligence (AI). We evaluated surgical team and AI interpretation of SRH for real-time pathologic feedback in the planning and treatment of PCa with PGCA. MethodsAbout 12 participants underwent prostate mapping biopsies during PGCA of their PCa between January and June 2022. Prostate biopsies were immediately scanned in a SRH microscope at 20 microns depth using 2 Raman shifts to create SRH images which were interpreted by the surgical team intraoperatively to guide PGCA, and retrospectively assessed by AI. The cores were then processed, hematoxylin and eosin stained as per normal pathologic protocols and used for ground truth pathologic assessment. ResultsSurgical team interpretation of SRH intraoperatively revealed 98.1% accuracy, 100% sensitivity, 97.3% specificity for identification of PCa, while AI showed a 97.9% accuracy, 100% sensitivity and 97.5% specificity for identification of clinically significant PCa. 3 participants’ PGCA treatments were modified after SRH visualized PCa adjacent to an expected MRI predicted tumor margin or at an untreated cryosurgical margin. ConclusionSRH allows for accurate rapid identification of PCa in PB by a surgical team interpretation or AI. PCa tumor mapping and margin assessment during PGCA appears to be feasible and accurate. Further studies evaluating impact on clinical outcomes are warranted.

Exorbital Lacrimal Gland Ablation and Regrafting Induce Inflammation but Not Regeneration or Dry Eye.

The study evaluated the regenerative responses of the lacrimal functional unit (LFU) after lacrimal gland (LG) ablation. The LG of Wistar rats was submitted to G1) partial LG ablation, G2) partial ablation and transplantation of an allogeneic LG, or G3) total LG ablation, (n = 7-10/group). The eye wipe test, slit lamp image, tear flow, and histology were evaluated. RT-PCR analyzed inflammatory and proliferation mediators. The findings were compared to naïve controls after 1 and 2 months (M1 and M2). G3 presented increased corneal sensitivity, and the 3 groups showed corneal neovascularization. Histology revealed changes in the LG and corneal inflammation. In the LG, there was an increase in MMP-9 mRNA of G1 and G2 at M1 and M2, in RUNX-1 at M1 and M2 in G1, in RUNX-3 mRNA at M1 in G1, and at M2 in G2. TNF-α mRNA rose in the corneas of G1 and G2 at M2. There was an increase in the IL-1β mRNA in the trigeminal ganglion of G1 at M1. Without changes in tear flow or evidence of LG regeneration, LG ablation and grafting are unreliable models for dry eye or LG repair in rats. The surgical manipulation extended inflammation to the LFU.

Comparative Effectiveness of Partial Gland Cryoablation Versus Robotic Radical Prostatectomy for Cancer Control

Background and objectiveThere is an absence of high-level evidence comparing oncologic endpoints for partial gland ablation, and most series used prostate-specific antigen (PSA) rather than biopsy endpoints. Our aim was to compare oncologic outcomes between partial gland cryoablation (PGC) and radical prostatectomy (RP) for prostate cancer. MethodsThis was a retrospective, single-center analysis of subjects treated with PGC (n = 98) or RP (n = 536) between January 2017 and December 2022 as primary treatment for intermediate-risk (Gleason grade group [GG] 2–3) prostate cancer. Oncologic endpoints included protocol surveillance biopsies after PGC in comparison to serial PSA testing after RP. The primary outcome was treatment failure, defined as a need for any salvage treatment or development of metastatic disease. Treatment failure and survival analyses were conducted using Cox proportional-hazard regression and Kaplan Meier survival curves. Key findings and limitationsAfter applying the inclusion/exclusion criteria, the PGC (n = 75) and RP (n = 298) groups were compared. PGC patients were significantly older (71 vs 64 yr; p < 0.001) but there were no differences in PSA, biopsy GG, or treatment year between the groups. The PGC group had higher rates of treatment failures at 24 mo (33% vs 11%; p < 0.001) and 48 mo (43% vs 14%; p < 0.001). One PGC patient (2.1%) and one RP patient (0.7%) had developed metastases by 48-mo follow-up (p = 0.4). On adjusted analysis, PGC was associated with a higher risk of treatment failure (hazard ratio 4.6, 95% confidence interval 2.7–7.9; p < 0.001). Limitations include observational biases associated with the retrospective study design. ConclusionsThis is the first comparative effectiveness study of cancer control outcomes for PGC versus RP. The results demonstrate an almost fivefold higher risk of treatment failure with PGC during short-term follow-up. Patient summaryWe compared cancer control outcomes for patients with intermediate-risk prostate cancer treated with partial prostate gland cryoablation versus radical prostatectomy. We found that partial gland cryoablation had an almost fivefold higher risk of treatment failure. Men with prostate cancer should be counseled regarding this difference in treatment failure.

Propensity score matched analysis of functional outcome in five thousand cases of robot-assisted radical prostatectomy versus high-intensity focused ultrasound

BackgroundTo evaluate functional outcome after robot-assisted radical prostatectomy (RARP) and high-intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU) ablation for prostate cancer. MethodsWe retrospectively reviewed 4,983 RARP and 230 HIFU procedures performed at a single tertiary center. A 1:4 ratio propensity score matching (PSM) was performed to achieve baseline equivalence in age, body mass index (BMI), comorbidities, clinical stage, prostate specific antigen (PSA), prostate volume, biopsy grade, and number of positive cores. Functional outcomes based on International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS), International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF-5) scores, and incontinence rates were evaluated at 6, 12, and 24 months. Resultstotal of 193 HIFU cases matched to 760 cases of RARP, were included. No differences were observed in perioperative IPSS at all follow-up periods. Despite comparative erectile function at baseline, HIFU showed significantly better erectile function preservation compared to RARP, with mean IIEF-5 scores of 9.5 versus 4.8, 9.5 versus 5.8, and 8.4 versus 6.7 at 6, 12, and 24 months, respectively (all P < 0.001). Pad-free rates at 6 and 12 months were comparable, with over 96% achieving continence at 12 months in both groups, although the rate of ≤1 pad/day at last follow-up was slightly better in HIFU (98.9% vs. 96.7%, P = 0.049). Subgroup analysis on partial (PGA) and whole gland ablation (WGA) showed no differences in IIEF-5 and incontinence but increased voiding difficulty in WGA versus PGA after 12 months of therapy (P < 0.05). Preoperative IIEF-5 ≥17 and HIFU were significant predictors of early erectile function recovery at 6 months (HR 4.4 and 5.0; all P < 0.001). No differences were observed in treatment-free survival between PGA, WGA, and RARP. ConclusionHIFU shows better performance in early recovery and preservation of erectile function after treatment for prostate cancer without increasing the risk of treatment failure. Patients with moderate to severe erectile dysfunction (IIEF-5 <17) prior to surgery should be warned of poor recovery after treatment.

Complications of microwave ablation in patients with persistent/recurrent hyperparathyroidism after surgical or ablative treatment

Objective To evaluate the complications associated with microwave ablation (MWA) in treating persistent/recurrent hyperparathyroidism (HPT) post-surgical or ablative treatments. Materials and methods From January 2015 to December 2022, 87 persistent/recurrent HPT patients (primary HPT [PHPT]: secondary HPT [SHPT] = 13:74) who underwent MWA after surgical or ablative treatment were studied. Grouping was based on ablation order (initial vs. re-MWA), prior treatment (parathyroidectomy [PTX] vs. MWA), and etiology (PHPT vs. SHPT). The study focused on documenting and comparing treatment complications and analyzing major complication risk factors. Result Among the 87 patients, the overall complication rate was 17.6% (15/87), with major complications at 13.8% (12/87) and minor complications at 3.4% (3/87). Major complications included recurrent laryngeal nerve (RLN) palsy (12.6%) and Horner syndrome (1.1%), while minor complications were limited to hematoma (3.4%). Severe hypocalcemia noted in 21.6% of SHPT patients. No significant differences in major complication rates were observed between initial and re-MWA groups (10.7% vs. 13.8%, p = 0.455), PTX and MWA groups (12.5% vs. 15.4%, p = 0.770), or PHPT and SHPT groups (15.4% vs. 13.5%, p > 0.999). Risk factors for RLN palsy included ablation of superior and large parathyroid glands (>1.7 cm). All patients recovered spontaneously except for one with permanent RLN palsy in the PTX group (2.1%). Conclusion Complication rates for MWA post-surgical or ablative treatments were comparable to initial MWA rates. Most complications were transient, indicating MWA as a viable and safe treatment option for persistent/recurrent HPT patients.

A unified strategy to focal brachytherapy incorporating transperineal biopsy, image fusion, and real-time implantation with and without rectal spacer simulated in prostate phantoms.

To develop an approach to the diagnosis and treatment of prostate cancer using one platform for fusion biopsy, followed by focal gland ablation utilizing permanent prostate brachytherapy with and without a rectal spacer. Prostate phantoms containing multiparametric magnetic resonance imaging (mpMRI) regions of interest (ROI) underwent fusion biopsy, followed by image co-registration of positive sites to a treatment planning brachytherapy program. A partial hemi-ablation and both posterior lobes using a Mick applicator and linked stranded seeds were simulated. Dummy sources were modeled as iodine-125 (125I) with a prescribed dose of at least 210 Gy to gross tumor (GTV) and clinical target volume (CTV), as defined by mpMRI visible ROI and surrounding negative biopsy sites. Computer tomograms (CT) were performed post-implant prior to and after rectal spacer insertion. Different prostate and rectal constraints were compared with and without the spacer. The intra-operative focal volumes of CTV ranged from 6.2 to 14.9 cc (mean, 11.3 cc), and the ratio of focal volume/whole prostate volume ranged between 0.19 and 0.42 (mean, 0.31). The intra- and post-operative mean focal D90 of GTV, CTV, and for the entire prostate gland was 265 Gy and 235 Gy, 214 Gy and 213 Gy, and 66.1 Gy and 57 Gy, respectively. On average, 13 mm separation was achieved between the prostate and the rectum (range, 12-14 mm) on post-operative CT. The mean doses in Gy to 2 cc of the rectum (D2cc) without spacer vs. with spacer were 39.8 Gy vs. 32.6 Gy, respectively. Doses above 200 Gy and the implantation of seeds in clinically significant region for focal therapy in phantoms are feasible. All rectal dosimetric parameters improved for the spacer implants, as compared with the non-spacer implants. Further validation of this concept is warranted in clinical trials.

Partial gland ablation using high-intensity focused ultrasound versus robot-assisted radical prostatectomy: a propensity score-matched study.

We compared the clinical outcomes of robot-assisted radical prostatectomy (RARP) and partial gland ablation (PGA) using high-intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU) in localized prostate cancer. We analyzed 3,859 patients who had undergone RARP and PGA using HIFU. According to the propensity score for each treatment, 137 patients after PGA were matched to 3,722 patients after RARP at a 1:4 ratio using the nearest neighbor method. The matched cohort comprised 685 subjects (RARP, 548; PGA, 137), with a median follow-up period of 22months. Treatment failures were identified in 13.9% and 9.1% of patients in the PGA and RARP groups, respectively, after a median follow-up of 36months postoperatively. Kaplan-Meier analyses revealed significantly longer failure-free (P<0.001) and salvage-free survival (P=0.003) in the RARP group than in the PGA group. There was no significant difference in the postoperative urinary symptom score (P=0.748), but the postoperative erectile function score was significantly higher in the PGA group (P<0.001). The rate of urinary incontinence (any pad) was significantly lower in the PGA group than that in the RARP group (P<0.001). Postoperative complications were more frequent in the PGA group (P=0.003); however, there was no significant difference in high-grade complications (≥3) (P=0.467). PGA using HIFU showed statistically inferior oncological outcomes compared with RARP for failure-free survival and salvage-free survival. However, functional outcomes regarding postoperative incontinence and erectile dysfunction were more favorable in the PGA group.

Intermediate Grade Prostate Cancer and Risk for Adverse Pathology Radical Prostatectomy: Implications for Partial Gland Ablation Case Selection.

Using nationally representative data, we determined the likelihood of adverse pathology at radical prostatectomy (RP) to better inform case selection for partial gland ablation (PGA). We identified men with clinically localized GG2 (n=106,048) and GG3 (n=55,488) prostate cancer on biopsy from 2010 through 2019 who subsequently underwent RP. Men with GG2 were stratified as unfavorable and favorable per NCCN guidelines. RP adverse pathology was defined as upgrading to GG4-5, pT3-4, or nodal involvement (pN1), respectively. Logistic regression determined factors associated with adverse pathology, and the Cochran-Armitage Test was used to evaluate temporal trends. Men with biopsy GG3 vs. GG2 experienced significant upgrading (11.3% vs. 3.6%, P < .001), more EPE (26.9% vs. 21.1%), SVI (11.9% vs. 5.3%), and pN1 (4.3% vs. 1.6%), all P < .001. When comparing unfavorable vs. favorable GG2, men experienced more EPE (25.3% vs. 16.5%), SVI (7.2% vs. 3%), and pN1 (2.2% vs. 0.8%), all P < .001. In adjusted analysis, age, Hispanic race, PSA > 10 ng/mL, and ≥ 50% positive biopsy cores were associated with adverse pathology (all P < .001). The likelihood of RP adverse pathology for men with biopsy GG3 increased significantly during the study period from 38.8% in 2010 to 47.3% in 2019 (P < .001). Approximately 40% of men with GG3 and more than 30% with unfavorable GG2 prostate cancer harbor adverse pathology that may not be curable by PGA. Given MRI often understages prostate cancer, our findings have significant implications for optimizing PGA case selection and cancer control outcomes.

Cardiovascular morbidity and mortality in patients in Wales, UK with resistance to thyroid hormone β (RTHβ): a linked-record cohort study

Individuals with resistance to thyroid hormone owing to mutations in the thyroid hormone receptor β gene (RTHβ) exhibit impaired tissue sensitivity to thyroid hormones, but retain sensitivity in cardiac tissue. Long-term health and survival outcomes in this rare disorder have not been evaluated. We investigated all-cause mortality and cardiovascular event risk in a cohort of patients with RTHβ, followed-up in UK endocrine clinics. In a retrospective cohort design, we linked genetically confirmed patients with RTHβ and age-matched and sex-matched population controls to outcomes in datasets within the Welsh Secure Anonymised Information Linkage (SAIL) Databank. Kaplan-Meier and Cox regression models analysed associations of RTHβ with all-cause mortality and cardiovascular events. We identified 61 patients with a genetic diagnosis of RTHβ between Jan 1, 1997, and Dec 31, 2019, and matched them with 2750 controls. Compared with controls, patients exhibited increased risks for all-cause mortality (hazard ratio [HR] 2·84, 95% CI 1·59-5·08), atrial fibrillation (10·56, 4·72-23·63), heart failure (HR 6·35, 95% CI 2·26-17·86), and major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE), comprising cardiovascular death, acute myocardial infarction, heart failure, or strokes (HR 3·49, 95% CI 2·04-5·99). The median age of first occurrence of any adverse event was 11 years earlier in patients (56 years, 95% CI 44-65) compared with controls (67 years, 65-70). Cubic spline analyses showed positive associations between FT4 concentrations at diagnosis and mortality or MACE, with FT4 concentration of 30 pmol/L or greater conferring increased risk. Compared with no intervention, treatment with antithyroid drugs, surgery or radioiodine gland ablation, or thyroxine did not control thyroid hormone excess. We have documented reduced survival and increased cardiovascular morbidity in a cohort of patients with RTHβ for the first time. These outcomes might be driven by lifelong cardiac exposure to thyroid hormone excess; and effective therapies, targeting hormone resistant pathways, could potentially curtail this risk. Royal College of Physicians, Wellcome Trust Investigator Award, and NIHR Cambridge Biomedical Research Centre.

Partial-gland Cryoablation Outcomes for Localized Prostate Cancer in Patients with Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)-visible and MRI-invisible Lesions

BackgroundExpert consensus recommends treatment of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)-visible prostate cancer (PCa). Outcomes of partial-gland ablation (PGA) for MRI-invisible PCa remain unknown. ObjectiveTo compare recurrence-free survival, adverse events, and health-related quality of life (HRQoL) outcomes following cryoablation of MRI-visible vs invisible PCa. Design, setting, and participantsWe analyzed data for 75 men who underwent cryoablation therapy between January 2017 and January 2022. PCa identified on MRI-targeted and/or adjacent systematic biopsy cores was defined as MRI-visible, whereas PCa identified on systematic biopsy beyond the targeted zone was defined as MRI-invisible. Outcome measurements and statistical analysisThe primary outcome was recurrence at 12 mo after PGA, defined as the presence of clinically significant PCa (grade group [GG] ≥2) on surveillance biopsy. Adverse events were captured using the Clavien-Dindo classification and HRQoL was captured using the Expanded Prostate Cancer Index-Clinical Practice (EPIC-CP) tool. Results and limitationsOf the 58 men treated for MRI-visible and 17 treated for MRI-invisible lesions, 51 (88%) and 16 (94%), respectively, had at least one surveillance biopsy performed. There were no statistically significant differences in age, race, body mass index, biopsy GG, prostate-specific antigen, prostate volume, or treatment extent between the MRI-visible and MRI-invisible groups. Median follow-up was 44 mo (interquartile range 17–54) and did not significantly differ between the groups. The recurrence rate at 12 mo did not significantly differ between the groups (MRI-visible 39%, MRI-invisible 19%; p = 0.2), and log-rank survival analysis demonstrated no significant difference in recurrence-free survival (p = 0.15). Adverse event rates did not significantly differ (MRI-visible 29%, MRI-invisible 53%; p = 0.092); no man in the MRI-visible group had a Clavien-Dindo grade ≥III complication, while one subject in the MRI-invisible group had a Clavien-Dindo grade III complication. Median EPIC-CP urinary and sexual function scores were similar for the two groups at baseline and at 12 mo after PGA. Study limitations include the retrospective design and small sample size. ConclusionsWe observed similar cancer control, adverse event, and HRQoL outcomes for MRI-visible versus MRI-invisible PCa in the first comparison of partial-gland cryoablation. Longer follow-up and external validation of our findings are needed to inform patient selection for PGA for MRI-invisible PCa. Patient summaryPatients with prostate cancer lesions that are not visible on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans who undergo partial gland ablation may have similar treatment outcomes compared to patients with cancer lesions that are visible on MRI.

The Journal of Urology ® Home Study Course 2023 Volume 209/210

<i>The Journal of Urology</i> ® Home Study Course 2023 Volume 209/210

MP73-08 FOCAL ABLATIVE SALVAGE THERAPY FOR RADIO-RECURRENT PROSTATE CANCER: A 10 YEAR EXPERIENCE OF ONCOLOGICAL AND SAFETY OUTCOMES IN 276 PATIENTS

You have accessJournal of UrologyCME1 Apr 2023MP73-08 FOCAL ABLATIVE SALVAGE THERAPY FOR RADIO-RECURRENT PROSTATE CANCER: A 10 YEAR EXPERIENCE OF ONCOLOGICAL AND SAFETY OUTCOMES IN 276 PATIENTS Deepika Reddy, Taimur Shah, Emma Cullen, Mariana Bertoncelli Tanaka, Tim Dudderidge, Stuart McCracken, Raj Nigam, Jaspal Virdi, Iqbal Shergill, Clement Orczyk, Manit Arya, Caroline Moore, Mark Emberton, and Hashim Ahmed Deepika ReddyDeepika Reddy More articles by this author , Taimur ShahTaimur Shah More articles by this author , Emma CullenEmma Cullen More articles by this author , Mariana Bertoncelli TanakaMariana Bertoncelli Tanaka More articles by this author , Tim DudderidgeTim Dudderidge More articles by this author , Stuart McCrackenStuart McCracken More articles by this author , Raj NigamRaj Nigam More articles by this author , Jaspal VirdiJaspal Virdi More articles by this author , Iqbal ShergillIqbal Shergill More articles by this author , Clement OrczykClement Orczyk More articles by this author , Manit AryaManit Arya More articles by this author , Caroline MooreCaroline Moore More articles by this author , Mark EmbertonMark Emberton More articles by this author , and Hashim AhmedHashim Ahmed More articles by this author View All Author Informationhttps://doi.org/10.1097/JU.0000000000003341.08AboutPDF ToolsAdd to favoritesDownload CitationsTrack CitationsPermissionsReprints ShareFacebookLinked InTwitterEmail Abstract INTRODUCTION AND OBJECTIVE: Localised prostate cancer recurrence after radiotherapy is commonly managed with systemic therapy or watchful waiting due to significant complications and side-effects following salvage prostatectomy. Focal Ablative Salvage Therapy (FAST) using high intensity focussed ultrasound (HIFU) or cryotherapy might be an optimal approach to delay metastases and time to systemic therapy. METHODS: The HEAT and ICE registries included 292 patients undergoing FAST (June 2008-Feb 2022) (HIFU n=232, cryotherapy n=60). Primary outcome was metastases free survival. Secondary outcomes were 1) overall survival (OS), 2) ADT free survival (AFS) where ADT was prescribed due to biochemical recurrence (BCR, PSA nadir+2ng/ml), 3) retreatment free survival (RFS), and 4) composite Failure Free Survival (FFS) where a failure event was BCR, retreatment of any form, ADT, metastases or prostate cancer death was reported. 6-year Kaplan-Meier estimates (95% CI) and adverse events classified using Clavien-Dindo (CD) are reported. RESULTS: 276 (HIFU n=216, cryotherapy n=60) recorded follow-up outcomes at the time of analysis. 242, 25 and 9 previously had external radiotherapy, brachytherapy or combination, respectively. Patients underwent mpMRI and systematic +/- targeted biopsy, with PET imaging (choline or PSMA). Median (IQR) PSA at time of recurrence was 5.5ng/ml (3-8); stage T2 in 66%, T3a 13% and T3b 8%. Median (IQR) follow up time was 30 months (14-52).141/276 had reported composite treatment failure, 82 patients received at least 1 form of retreatment (25 focal ablation, 1 whole gland ablation, 2 salvage prostatectomy, 1 salvage radiotherapy, 51 ADT), 8 had metastases and 22 died. Metastases-free survival was 94% (86-97%) with median (IQR) 21 (13-44) months metastases (Figure 1). OS was 86% (76-92%), AFS 61% (47-72%), RFS 40% (29-52%), and composite FFS 21% (13-30%). Median (IQR) time from FAST to retreatment, ADT prescription and OS was 18 (12-33), 20 (13-39), and 53 (38-84) months, respectively.24 had an adverse event with 4 CD grade >/=3 events: 3 (1%) had fistula and 1 (0.4%) a urethral stricture. CONCLUSIONS: With a low rate of adverse events, FAST confers good metastases-free survival in this high risk cohort with the majority avoiding ADT due to biochemical recurrence. Source of Funding: n/a © 2023 by American Urological Association Education and Research, Inc.FiguresReferencesRelatedDetails Volume 209Issue Supplement 4April 2023Page: e1037 Advertisement Copyright & Permissions© 2023 by American Urological Association Education and Research, Inc.MetricsAuthor Information Deepika Reddy More articles by this author Taimur Shah More articles by this author Emma Cullen More articles by this author Mariana Bertoncelli Tanaka More articles by this author Tim Dudderidge More articles by this author Stuart McCracken More articles by this author Raj Nigam More articles by this author Jaspal Virdi More articles by this author Iqbal Shergill More articles by this author Clement Orczyk More articles by this author Manit Arya More articles by this author Caroline Moore More articles by this author Mark Emberton More articles by this author Hashim Ahmed More articles by this author Expand All Advertisement PDF downloadLoading ...

V07-04 A CASE OF COMPLICATED FOCAL LASER ABLATION OF PROSTATE CANCER MANAGED BY HOLMIUM LASER ENUCLEATION (HOLEP)

You have accessJournal of UrologyCME1 Apr 2023V07-04 A CASE OF COMPLICATED FOCAL LASER ABLATION OF PROSTATE CANCER MANAGED BY HOLMIUM LASER ENUCLEATION (HOLEP) Mohamed Elsaqa and Marawan M. El Tayeb Mohamed ElsaqaMohamed Elsaqa More articles by this author and Marawan M. El TayebMarawan M. El Tayeb More articles by this author View All Author Informationhttps://doi.org/10.1097/JU.0000000000003288.04AboutPDF ToolsAdd to favoritesDownload CitationsTrack CitationsPermissionsReprints ShareFacebookLinked InTwitterEmail Abstract INTRODUCTION AND OBJECTIVE: There is a recent increasing interest in focal gland ablation for localized prostate cancer. The major advantage of focal therapy over whole gland treatment is reduction of urinary and sexual complications. However, there is still lack of high-quality evidence on long-term oncological outcome. METHODS: We present a case of 71 years old patient presented by hematuria and urine retention 3 weeks post-focal laser ablation of prostate cancer. The patient had enlarged prostate of 145 grams with large median lobe and Gleason score 4+3 prostate cancer. RESULTS: Cystoscopy revealed multiple areas of necrosis especially on the right lateral lobe and involving the ejaculatory ducts with possible extra-capsular necrosis extending to the seminal vesicles. HoLEP was deliberately performed as shown in the video. There were multiple areas of necrosis at the level of the capsule of the prostate that were formed by the focal laser ablation. At the end of the procedure, cystogram was done and methylene blue was injected inside the bladder with rectal exam to exclude connection between the prostatic urethra and the rectum. CONCLUSIONS: Multi-disciplinary approach is crucial for proper selection of the patients for focal therapy. Although data reports minimal complications with focal laser ablation of prostate cancer, significant urinary complications can be anticipated especially with large prostate volume. HoLEP is an effective option for management of urinary complications of focal therapy. Source of Funding: None © 2023 by American Urological Association Education and Research, Inc.FiguresReferencesRelatedDetails Volume 209Issue Supplement 4April 2023Page: e597 Advertisement Copyright & Permissions© 2023 by American Urological Association Education and Research, Inc.MetricsAuthor Information Mohamed Elsaqa More articles by this author Marawan M. El Tayeb More articles by this author Expand All Advertisement PDF downloadLoading ...

Partial gland ablation outcomes for localized prostate cancer in patients with MRI-visible and MRI-invisible lesions.

368 Background: Partial gland ablation (PGA) for MRI-invisible prostate cancer (PCa) remains controversial, and we compared treatment failure rates, adverse events, and health-related quality-of-life outcomes (HRQoL) following PGA in subjects with MRI-visible vs. MRI-invisible lesions. Methods: Retrospective review was done of primary PGA therapy (cryoablation, irreversible electroporation, and high-intensity focused ultrasound) performed between January 2017 and 2022 at Weill Cornell Medical Center. Analysis was restricted to men with at least one post-PGA prostate biopsy. Men with PCa on systematic biopsy outside of the MRI-targeted zone were categorized as having MRI-invisible lesions. Failure of PGA was defined as persistence or recurrence of Gleason grade group (GGG) ≥2 on surveillance biopsy for subjects diagnosed with GGG ≥2 PCa. For patients treated for GGG 1 PCa, failure was defined by the detection of GGG ≥1 PCa. Adverse events were captured by the Clavien-Dindo classification and HRQoL outcomes were captured by the Expanded Prostate Cancer Index-Clinical Practice (EPIC-CP). Groups were compared using Pearson’s chi-squared test and the 2-sided Wilcoxon-Mann-Whitney test. Results: Out of 115 men were treated for primary prostate cancer, 89 men had at least one surveillance biopsy performed, and 87 men had available pre-treatment MRI data. Out 79 subjects treated with MRI-visible lesions and 34 subjects treated with MRI-invisible lesions, 59 and 28 subjects, respectively, had surveillance biopsy data. Median (IQR) follow-up was 15.5 months (7.7-25.5) in the overall cohort; median follow-up was not significantly different between the MRI-visible and MRI-invisible groups (15 vs. 15 months, p-value=0.766). Failure of PGA occurred in 43 (48.3%) of total subjects. Failure of PGA was not significantly different between the MRI-visible and MRI-invisible groups (50.9% vs. 42.9%, p-value=0.502). Mean total EPIC-CP scores were not significantly different between both groups at baseline, 3, 6, and 12 months after PGA. Additionally, rates of 30-day complications were not significantly different between both groups. Conclusions: Failure is evident in almost half of patients treated with PGA therapy. Oncologic and functional treatment outcomes after focal therapy are similar between patients with MRI-visible and MRI-invisible lesions. [Table: see text]

Cryotherapy for partial gland ablation of prostate cancer: Oncologic and safety outcomes.

Partial gland ablation (PGA) is a new option for treatment of prostate cancer (PCa). Cryotherapy, an early method of PGA, has had favorable evaluations, but few studies have employed a strict protocol using biopsy endpoints in men with clinically significant prostate cancer (csPCa). 143 men with unilateral csPCa were enrolled in a prospective, observational trial of outpatient PGA-cryotherapy. Treatment was a 2-cycle freeze of the affected prostate part. Participants were evaluated with MRI-guided biopsy (MRGB) at baseline and at 6 months and 18 months after treatment. Absence of csPCa upon MRGB was the primary endpoint; quality-of-life at baseline and at 6 months after treatment was assessed by EPIC-CP questionnaires in the domains of urinary and sexual function. Of the 143 participants, 136 (95%) completed MRGB at 6 months after treatment. In 103/136 (76%), the biopsy revealed no csPCa. Of the 103, 71 subsequently had an 18-month comprehensive biopsy; of the 71 with 18-month biopsies, 46 (65%) were found to have no csPCa. MRI lesions became undetectable in 96/130 (74%); declines in median serum PSA levels (6.9 to 2.5 ng/mL), PSA density (0.15 to 0.07), and prostate volume (42 to 34cc) were observed (all p< 0.01). Neither lesion disappearance on MRI nor PSA decline correlated with biopsy outcome. Urinary function was affected only slightly and sexual function moderately. In the near to intermediate term, partial gland ablation with cryotherapy was found to be a safe and moderately effective treatment of intermediate-risk prostate cancer. Eradication of cancer was better determined by MRI-guided biopsy than by MRI or PSA.

Utility of Magnetic Resonance Imaging for Localizing Prostate Cancer Near the Urethra in Men Who Are Candidates for Focal Gland Ablation.

Given that treatment near the urethra is often limited to reduce side effects, in this study we aim to determine whether prostate MRI can accurately identify the distance of prostate cancer to the urethra in a cohort of men who were potential candidates for focal gland ablation. A single-institution analysis was performed of men who underwent MRI, targeted biopsy, and radical prostatectomy from July 2012 to April 2021. Men who were candidates for focal gland ablation were identified. The ability of MRI to identify prostate cancer within 5 mm of the prostatic urethra as confirmed on whole-mount pathology was assessed. Multivariate regression was utilized to determine characteristics associated with prostate cancer within 5 mm of the urethra on whole-mount pathology. In 48 out of 67 men (72%), the tumor was within 5 mm of the urethra on whole-mount pathology. MRI was concordant with whole-mount pathology in 49 out of 67 men (73%). The sensitivity of MRI for identifying cancer within 5 mm of the urethra was 77% (65%-89%) and the specificity was 63% (42%-89%). The positive predictive value was 84% (range 73%-95%) and negative predictive value was 52% (32%-73%). In adjusted analysis, PSA density and Prostate Imaging-Reporting and Data System were not significantly associated with having prostate cancer within close proximity of the urethra. A significant number of men who are potential candidates for focal gland ablation have cancer within close proximity to the urethra that could serve as a significant source of in-field recurrence. The sensitivity of MRI for identifying these lesions is 77% and can be used to further improve patient selection for focal gland ablation.