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2024

Water Vapor Thermal Therapy. How I Do It

Water Vapor Thermal Therapy. How I Do It

Posted by | Aug 2024

Kevin C. Zorn, MD, FRCSC, FACS, analyzes water vapor thermal therapy for the treatment of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), focusing on its application, benefits, and procedural techniques. His discussion highlights the efficacy and minimally invasive nature of this therapy, making it an appealing option for patients seeking relief from BPH symptoms.

Dr. Zorn explains the mechanism of water vapor thermal therapy, which involves the delivery of steam directly into the prostate tissue. He outlines the procedural steps, starting with patient preparation and anesthesia. Dr. Zorn details the insertion of the transurethral device and the precise delivery of water vapor to the targeted prostate zones.

The advantages of water vapor thermal therapy are discussed extensively. Dr. Zorn highlights its high safety profile, low risk of complications, and significant improvement in urinary symptoms and quality of life. He also notes the durability of the treatment outcomes. Challenges and potential complications are addressed, including transient dysuria, hematuria, and urinary retention.

Future directions for water vapor thermal therapy include ongoing research to refine techniques, improve patient outcomes, and expand the indications for this treatment. Dr. Zorn highlights the potential for combining this therapy with other minimally invasive treatments to enhance efficacy and broaden its applicability.

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Treatment of Oligometastatic Prostate Cancer in the Era of PSMA PET Imaging

Treatment of Oligometastatic Prostate Cancer in the Era of PSMA PET Imaging

Posted by | Aug 2024

Andrew W. Hahn, MD, explores the treatment of oligometastatic prostate cancer in the context of advancements in PSMA PET imaging. Dr. Hahn examines the integration of systemic therapies with local treatments, discussing the benefits and challenges of combining androgen deprivation therapy (ADT) with newer agents like androgen receptor inhibitors and chemotherapy. The presentation also delves into the evolving role of PSMA-targeted radioligand therapy, outlining promising results from early-phase studies and ongoing research on this treatment modality.
A significant portion of the presentation is dedicated to the practical considerations and challenges associated with implementing PSMA PET imaging and MDT in clinical practice. Dr. Hahn addresses issues related to accessibility, cost, and the need for multidisciplinary collaboration to ensure the best patient outcomes.

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Clinical Trials in Focal Therapy – Endpoint, Design, Updates

Clinical Trials in Focal Therapy – Endpoint, Design, Updates

Posted by | Aug 2024

Taimur Shah, MD, provides an in-depth analysis of clinical trials in focal therapy for prostate cancer, focusing on endpoints, design, and recent updates.

Dr. Shah emphasizes the importance of carefully defined endpoints in clinical trials for focal therapy, including oncologic control measures such as progression-free survival, biochemical recurrence rates, and cancer-specific mortality. Secondary endpoints typically assess functional outcomes, including urinary continence and sexual function, to gauge the impact on patients’ quality of life. These criteria are crucial for determining the effectiveness and safety of focal therapy compared to traditional treatments.

The design of clinical trials in focal therapy is discussed in detail. Dr. Shah highlights the need for robust methodologies, including randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and prospective cohort studies. He discusses the latest data on various focal therapy modalities, including high-intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU), cryoablation, and photodynamic therapy.

The presentation also addresses the challenges and limitations of current clinical trials. These include the need for standardized treatment protocols, variability in imaging and biopsy techniques, and the difficulty of conducting long-term follow-ups. Dr. Shah emphasizes the importance of continued research and collaboration among institutions to overcome these challenges and refine focal therapy approaches.

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