Prostate Cancer Research Projects

University of Chicago

Dr. Scott Eggener

“A Study to Evaluate Magnetic Resonance Thermal Image-guided Laser-Induced Thermal Therapy for Pinpoint destruction of Prostate Cancer.”

This human clinical trial, approved by the FDA, will test a treatment that can eliminate prostate cancer cells without damaging the surrounding tissues. The research team will evaluate the feasibility of a FDA-approved thermal therapy and feedback system (Visualase® Thermal Therapy System) for the treatment of biopsy confirmed and MR-imageable prostate lesions. This system has been used in humans for the treatment of brain, spine,thyroid, and liver cancers; however it has not yet been evaluated for the primary treatment of prostate cancer.

This system allows delivery of laser energy while the patient is simultaneously being imaged by an MRI unit. The system’s real-time MR thermal imaging (MRTI) provides information on the thermal dose delivered to the target, resulting in a more precise and controlled delivery which has not been possible with other cancer removal therapies. The researchers hypothesize the system can be a practical and feasible treatment for low-risk localized prostate cancer and allow patients to avoid the complications associated with radical whole-gland therapy. This clinical trial will take up to 2 years. PFC Funding Partners-The Longest Day of Golf Chicago and the University of Chicago Foundation.