Guy’s pilots targeted laser therapy for prostate cancer

Guy’s Hospital has become the first NHS centre to evaluate a targeted laser treatment for men with localised prostate cancer.

The Southwark hospital is using the ProFocal system in a pilot involving 30 patients. The minimally invasive procedure directs laser energy into the tumour through a fine fibre, destroying cancerous tissue while aiming to protect the surrounding prostate.

Early results have been encouraging. Of the first 10 patients treated, eight had no remaining cancer in the treated area, while two had only a minimal amount detected.

The approach could offer selected patients an alternative to surgery or radiotherapy, which can cause urinary incontinence and erectile dysfunction. However, focal treatment may leave or miss cancer cells, meaning careful monitoring and further treatment can still be required.

Rick Popert, senior consultant urological surgeon at Guy’s and St Thomas’ NHS Foundation Trust, said it was “brilliant” to pilot the technology in the NHS. The system can be used to reach tumours throughout the prostate, including areas that may be difficult to treat with some other focal therapies.

Patients taking part will continue to be monitored to establish how effectively the treatment controls cancer over time. International evidence suggests focal laser ablation has potential for carefully selected men, but researchers say longer-term data and standardised follow-up remain necessary.

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