Men with localized, intermediate-risk prostate cancer recovered more quickly and experienced fewer short-term effects when treated with MRI-guided transurethral ultrasound ablation (TULSA) compared to robotic prostate surgery, according to findings presented on Apr. 13 at the SIR 2026 Annual Scientific Meeting in Toronto.
The study is significant because it compares a new minimally invasive therapy, TULSA, performed by interventional radiologists, against the standard surgical approach of robotic prostatectomy. The research involved 212 men across 23 medical centers between 2022 and 2025 who were randomly assigned to either treatment group.
According to the trial results, patients who underwent TULSA had less blood loss during their procedures and typically returned home the same day. They also reported less pain and a quicker return to normal activities within one month after treatment. In contrast, those who had surgery experienced higher rates of blood loss, longer hospital stays, and slower recoveries.
Surgical removal of the prostate is known for effectively controlling cancer but can result in long-term complications such as erectile dysfunction or loss of bladder control. The TULSA procedure uses real-time MRI guidance to deliver high-energy ultrasound through the urethra directly into the prostate tissue without harming surrounding organs. Researchers say this approach helps preserve urinary and sexual function.
"While longer‑term cancer control and functional outcomes remain critical, early recovery is an important part of the treatment decision for patients," said Dr. Woodrum. "CAPTAIN is providing high‑quality randomized data to help patients and physicians have more informed conversations about treatment options."
Researchers plan ongoing follow-up over ten years to compare longer-term outcomes like urinary control, sexual function, and whether additional treatments are needed.
