New device improves prostate cancer surgery result

The Royal Surrey County Hospital says the Histolog Scanner enhances prostate cancer surgery and reduces the chances of undergoing radiotherapy

A hospital in Surrey says it is the first NHS trust in the UK to use a "revolutionary" new device that improves prostate cancer surgery and reduces the need for radiotherapy.

The Histolog Scanner allows surgeons at Royal Surrey County Hospital to assess the prostate for cancerous tissue in real-time during surgery rather than wait for post-operation results.

The trust says the technology enables surgeons to remove additional tissue if required, potentially reducing the risk of leaving behind cancerous cells.

Wissam Abou-Chedid, consultant urological surgeon, said: "This technology marks a real leap forward in prostate cancer surgery."

He said: "For the first time, we can assess tissue in real time while the patient is still on the operating table – allowing us to make immediate, informed decisions that improve cancer control without putting quality of life at risk.

"It means fewer patients needing radiotherapy afterwards, and more men retaining their continence and sexual function."

Royal Surrey's urology clinical director, Dimitrios Moschonas, said the scanner strengthens the hospital's reputation as a national leader in prostate cancer treatment and robotic surgery.

"As the highest-volume single-site centre for robotic prostatectomy in the UK, Royal Surrey continues to lead with pioneering initiatives," he said.

In May 2023, Royal Surrey's urology team set a record, performing 12 robotic prostatectomies in a single day.

In August, the team was shortlisted for an HSJ award for its catheter scheme to assist prostate cancer patients following robotic surgery.

Patients are taught how to safely remove their own catheters at home, avoiding return trips to the hospital.