Stereotactic Biopsy System Delivers Greater Accuracy In Detecting Cancer And Planning For Targeted Prostate Cancer Therapies

Main Category: Prostate / Prostate Cancer
Also Included In: Urology / Nephrology;  Cancer / Oncology
Article Date: 15 Apr 2009 - 1:00 PDT

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Urologists convening this week at the Southeast Conference of the American Urological Association (AUA) in Mobile will deliver results from a study of a prostate biopsy targeting method that guides accurate and reproducible prostate biopsies. Additionally, the preliminary data shows that the stereotactic biopsy system, called TargetScan, may be used to guide delivery of targeted, focal prostate cancer therapies.

"We now have greater confidence in diagnosing prostate disease and have much more accurate information to advise patients of their treatment options," explains James K. Bennett, M.D., a leading urologist in private practice in Atlanta and co-author of the study. "Our study shows that we can obtain better biopsies, repeat them with accuracy, monitor patients for follow-up, and ultimately create targeted therapies to kill cancer within the prostate with minimal side effects."

The study, titled "TargetScan: A Novel Approach for Outpatient Prostate Biopsy and Potential Aid to Focal Prostate Therapy," analyzed 50 men receiving first-time biopsies at Midtown Urology Surgical Center in Atlanta and showed that the TargetScan stereotactic method identifying sample locations in 3-dimensional detail delivered cancer detection results comparable to other methods. The targeting capability provides better information regarding the extent of disease and provides opportunity to consider alternative treatment methods for men seeking to avoid the sexual dysfunction and incontinence associated with radical prostatectomy.

About TargetScan and Envisioneering Medical Technologies

TargetScan Touch is a stereotactic biopsy and treatment system delivering precision at the touch of the physician's fingers. The technology collects 3-D images using a proprietary robotic probe; leads physicians in mapping prostate locations; and guides biopsy sampling and/or cancer therapies through needle placement within a defined template. It was developed by Envisioneering Medical Technologies, based in St. Louis, Mo., which creates technology to support the continuum of care for the prostate -- from accurate biopsies to targeted cancer treatment.

Source
TargetScan and Envisioneering Medical Technologies

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