An international research study is the first in the world to show an innovative biopsy method used by specialists at Maidstone and Tunbridge Wells NHS Trust (MTW) provides safer and more effective diagnoses for prostate cancer patients.
The TRANSLATE study is funded by the National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR) and led by Oxford University. Consultant Urological Surgeon, Mr Hide Yamamoto, alongside the Trust’s Urology team have been working since 2019 to research the ‘transperineal’ biopsy and its benefits compared to the more traditional and widely used transrectal biopsy.
The research by TRANSLATE confirmed previous findings that transperineal biopsy provides very low rates of infection, as the needle is passed through the skin and not through contaminated bowel. It also helps improve the rate of cancer detection meaning patients are diagnosed and provided with quicker access to ongoing care.
The study saw hundreds of suspected prostate cancer patients randomly allocated to the new method of treatment, with Mr Yamamoto pioneering the ground-breaking treatment after becoming one of the first in the country to offer it to patients in 2017.
Since then, Mr Yamamoto has taught the technique to doctors and nurses in hospitals across the country while also running regular courses at Maidstone Hospital, so even more patients are able to have access to the improved outcomes.
MTW’s access to the study was made possible following a [generous donation by former patient Roy Sutcliffe and his wife Margaret](https://www.mtw.nhs.uk/2021/05/hospital-supporter-sees-six-figure-donation-at-work/) in 2018 which funded the cost of vital ultrasound equipment required for the new method.
Mr Yamamoto, said: “I sincerely thank all the people involved, especially the hundreds of patients at MTW who agreed to be enrolled in the study, which found a better way to diagnose prostate cancer compared to traditional methods.
“After working collaboratively with our partners at Oxford University and the NIHR, we are now looking forward to continuing to provide this method of treatment and ensuring more of our patients can gain access to its safe and more effective outcomes.”
Dr Sara Mumford, MTW’s Chief Medical Officer, said: “The results of this study show the significant difference this innovative technique is making for our patients and embrace the fundamentals of our Trust values to seek continuous improvement and provide the best possible care.”
“I want to say a huge thank you and congratulations to the entire Urology team as well as our Research and Development team, Radiology and Pathology departments.”
Head of Research and Innovation, Hazel Everest, added: “The TRANSLATE study is a great example of how research trials bring teams together to provide new treatment opportunities for patients. Staff from urology, core support services, research and oncology research came together to successfully deliver the trial to a high standard.”