Largest surgical prostate cancer research study in UK led in Wales

15 October 2024

A ground-breaking new study hosted in Wales is aiming to ensure high-risk prostate cancer patients receive the highest level of care.

ELIPSE (Evaluation of Lymphadenectomy In High Risk Prostate Cancer Surgery) is the largest surgical urology study in the UK and one of the largest globally. The study looks into two different types of surgery for men with high-risk localised prostate cancer - cancer that has not spread elsewhere in the body but is at risk of doing so.

Removal of lymph nodes

The study will look at two different types of surgery for men with high-risk localised prostate cancer - removal of the prostate and lymph nodes compared to removal of the prostate alone - and evaluate the outcomes.

Currently, both types of surgery are performed in the UK, but there is insufficient evidence to guide patients, their families and clinicians about the best approach.

Crucial evidence to support decision-making

The study aims to find crucial evidence to support patient and clinician decision-making and is led by Cardiff and Vale University Health Board and Imperial College London with support from the University of Aberdeen, Health and Care Research Wales and the National Institute of Health and Care Research (NIHR).

Prof Krishna Narahari, Consultant Urological Surgeon and Chief Investigator at Cardiff & Vale University Health Board said: “This trial represents a significant milestone for NHS Wales. It is the first Urology NIHR study with a Welsh Chief Investigator and a Welsh site. It will also be the first of its kind studying Robotic Assisted Laparoscopic Prostatectomy- RALP procedure.

This study is important because it helps us make sure patients across the NHS get the same high level of care. We want to find out the benefits of removing lymph nodes in men with high-risk, localised, prostate cancer. The results will help patients, and their families make better treatment choices and improve care worldwide.”

Men in Wales have a one in eight risk of getting prostate cancer, the most common cancer in males across the country.

Dr Nicola Williams, National Director of Support and Delivery at Health and Care Research Wales said: “This study not only aims to provide critical evidence to guide surgical decisions for prostate cancer treatment but also underscores the importance of collaborative efforts across the UK in improving patient outcomes.

“Leading this groundbreaking trial, Wales is at the forefront of medical research, ensuring that our patients receive the most effective and evidence-based care possible.”

Patients undergoing surgery for high-risk localised prostate cancer at the University Hospital of Wales will be invited to consider being part of this study by their clinical team.

All participants in the trial will complete questionnaires before surgery and at three, 12, 24, and 36-months post-surgery. They will also maintain a diary to track the results of a prostate specific antigen blood test used in the diagnosis and follow up of prostate cancer.