NCT05454488 · M.D. Anderson Cancer Center
An Evidence-Based Focal Cryotherapy Protocol for Focal Ablation of Intermediate Risk Prostate Cancer
What this study is about
To learn if using cryotherapy to treat only the part of the prostate known to contain cancer is effective in controlling prostate cancer
View original scientific description
To learn if using cryotherapy to treat only the part of the prostate known to contain cancer is effective in controlling prostate cancer
Who can participate
This study lists these criteria on ClinicalTrials.gov. A study coordinator reviews eligibility during screening — this page does not determine whether you qualify.
Inclusion criteria
- English-speaking adult males
- Life expectancy over 10 years as assessed by treating physician
- Prior to enrollment, MRI fusion biopsy of MRI-visible lesion required (as detailed below, which includes systematic biopsy cores)
- Single focus GG2 or GG3 (additional GG1 allowed up to 6mm, noting that a single focus of disease is defined as an area seen on MRI that may be biopsied multiple times using targeted biopsies and have systematic core biopsies directly adjacent to targeted cores; all of which being considered as from the same focus)
- Histologically confirmed adenocarcinoma of prostate
- Organ-confined prostate cancer, clinical stage ≤T2bN0M0
- Visible tumor on MRI
- No clear evidence or high suspicion of extraprostatic extension or seminal vesical invasion on MRI
- Biopsy via transperineal or transrectal approach with at least 2 cores of MRI visible lesions that are PIRADS 2 or higher and 12 core systematic biopsy template (
Exclusion criteria
- of cores from systematic template that overlap with targeted cores allowed).
- Additional performance of microultrasound guided biopsy is allowed though not required. Please note that every effort will be made to correlate microultrasound findings with MRI, in order to determine if positive results are from the same MRIvisible focus. This determination will be made by the surgeon performing the biopsy.
- Note that GGG 1 disease at sites other than ablation zone are allowed provided these are 6mm or less in size. PSA ≤15 ng/mL, or PSAD \<0.15 if PSA \>15 ng/mL
- Physician can fully visualize the prostate on transrectal ultrasound on entry biopsy
- Lesion anatomically amenable to cryotherapy treatment based on treating physician's discretion
- Willing and able to read, understand and sign the study specific informed consent document
- Willing and agreeable to comply with study protocol requirements, including focal cryotherapy ablation and all follow up visit requirements
- Patients must consent to investigative laboratory protocol (such as, but not limited to, 2021- 0560) Exclusion criteria:
- Gleason grade group 4 or 5 disease
- Medical history or concurrent disease, which in the opinion of the investigator, poses the patient at significant peri-operative risk of complication due to anesthesia or the procedure
- Active urinary tract infection
- Any previous treatment for prostate cancer, including radiation therapy, hormonal treatment, biologic therapy for prostate cancer, or chemotherapy
- Prior TURP or other prostate outlet procedure such as HoLEP, greenlight, microwave ablation, aquablation, UroLift, or simple prostatectomy.
- Previous rectal surgery (other than hemorrhoidectomy) or history of rectal disease
- Inability to obtain prostate MRI (ex. due to claustrophobia, pacemaker, or prohibitive implants)
- Unwilling to consent to laboratory investigative protocol (such as, but not limited to, 2021- 0560)
Where
- Houston, Texas
Frequently asked questions
What is a clinical trial?
A clinical trial is a research study that tests new medical treatments, drugs, devices, or procedures to determine their safety and effectiveness. Trials are carefully designed and monitored to protect participants while advancing medical knowledge.
Is it safe to participate?
Clinical trials follow strict safety guidelines and ethical standards. Trials must be reviewed and approved, and participants are closely monitored by medical professionals throughout the study. You can withdraw at any time if you choose.
Will I be compensated?
Many clinical trials offer compensation for your time, travel expenses, and inconvenience. The specific compensation varies by study and will be discussed during the screening process. All study-related medical care is typically provided at no cost to participants.
Will I receive a placebo instead of treatment?
When effective treatment exists, participants typically receive either the standard treatment plus the study intervention, or the standard treatment plus placebo. You would not be denied effective care. Placebos are primarily used when no proven treatment is available, or in addition to standard care. Your trial consent form will clearly explain what treatments you may receive.
Can I leave a trial if I change my mind?
Absolutely. Participation in clinical trials is completely voluntary. You have the right to withdraw from the study at any time, for any reason, without penalty or loss of benefits to which you are otherwise entitled.
How long does a clinical trial last?
Trial duration varies widely depending on the study design and purpose. Some trials last just a few weeks, while others may continue for months or years. The study coordinator will provide specific timeline information during your screening call.
Data: ClinicalTrials.gov · synced Jun 2, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations