Oxford, England – Scientists from the University of Oxford in the UK are exploring a new approach to locating and removing prostate cancer cells during surgery. Using a special fluorescent dye, researchers believe they can improve the precision of cancer cell removal, reducing the risk of cancer recurrence. The dye targets a protein unique to cancer cells, aiding surgeons in identifying cancerous tissue that may be missed by traditional methods.
In a preliminary trial involving 23 men, surgeons reported that the fluorescent dye helped them detect cancer cells in areas that would have otherwise gone unnoticed. This development has prompted plans for a larger trial, supported by funding from Cancer Research UK (CRUK), to further assess the effectiveness of this method compared to current approaches.
Lead researcher Prof Freddie Hamdy expressed optimism about the potential of this new technique, highlighting the ability to visualize fine details of prostate cancer in real-time during surgery. He emphasized the importance of completely removing cancer cells, including those that have spread from the tumor, to minimize the chances of cancer recurrence.
The upcoming Promote study aims to delve deeper into the efficacy of the fluorescent dye method and its impact on surgical outcomes. Prof Hamdy envisions that this approach could lead to the preservation of more healthy tissue during surgery, reducing the likelihood of side effects commonly associated with prostate operations.
Patient testimonies, like that of David Butler from Bradford, West Yorkshire, underscore the significance of early cancer detection and treatment advancements. Butler’s participation in the trial led to the identification of cancer in his lymph nodes and bladder, ultimately guiding his treatment path towards successful recovery.
Dr Iain Foulkes, executive director of research and innovation at CRUK, emphasized the necessity for improved tools for detecting metastatic cancers. He acknowledged the transformative potential of the combined marker dye and imaging system developed through this research in revolutionizing prostate cancer treatment.
With prostate cancer being the most prevalent cancer in men in the UK, affecting approximately 52,300 individuals annually, the need for innovative diagnostic and treatment approaches is paramount. CRUK envisions the broader applicability of the fluorescent dye technique beyond prostate cancer, potentially revolutionizing cancer surgeries across different types of the disease in the future.