AngioDynamics has partnered with University College London Hospital (UCLH) to launch a prospective registry study evaluating the long-term effects of the NanoKnife system in treating unifocal intermediate-risk prostate cancer. The study seeks to enroll up to 500 patients globally to validate the safety and efficacy of NanoKnife, building on existing single-center research.
NanoKnife Technology and Mechanism
The NanoKnife system employs irreversible electroporation (IRE) technology to treat tumors. This involves delivering high-voltage electrical pulses that create tiny pores in cell membranes, leading to controlled cell death without harming surrounding tissues. This targeted approach aims to minimize damage to critical structures such as blood vessels and nerves, potentially reducing side effects associated with traditional surgery.
Study Objectives and Design
The primary objective of the registry study is to assess how the NanoKnife system can reduce or delay the need for more radical interventions, thereby helping preserve patients’ quality of life. The international registry will track patient outcomes over time, allowing UCLH to refine the dissemination of NanoKnife. Mark Emberton, professor of interventional oncology at UCLH, emphasized that the registry will enable continuous learning and refinement of the treatment to optimize outcomes for men with prostate cancer.
Potential Benefits and Reduced Side Effects
Traditional surgery for prostate cancer can lead to significant side effects, including urinary leakage in 36% of men and erectile dysfunction in 95%, as highlighted in research published in BJU International. By avoiding critical structures, NanoKnife aims to treat tumors while minimizing these effects, offering a potentially less invasive alternative.
UCLH's Experience and Standardization
UCLH was the first facility in the UK’s National Health Service (NHS) to use NanoKnife to treat prostate cancer. They provide standardized patient selection, treatment, and long-term follow-up. This experience will be crucial in ensuring the quality and consistency of the registry study.
Industry Perspective
AngioDynamics senior vice president Laura Piccinini stated that this extensive prospective study will support broader adoption, expanded treatment pathways, and increased patient access to improved treatment modalities for men in the UK with prostate cancer, potentially establishing NanoKnife as a standard of care.
Ongoing Clinical Trials
NanoKnife is also being evaluated in the PRIS clinical trial (NCT05513443), which is enrolling 184 prostate cancer patients to assess the feasibility of treating localized prostate cancer using IRE. The study compares IRE with conventional radical treatments, with the primary objective of achieving local tumor control while minimizing side effects.
