A New Approach to Prostate Cancer Surgery

A groundbreaking surgical method is giving men diagnosed with prostate cancer a better chance at preserving their quality of life post-surgery. Known as NeuroSAFE, this technique significantly increases the likelihood of maintaining erectile function without jeopardizing the effectiveness of cancer removal, according to a recent study published in The Lancet Oncology.

The NeuroSAFE approach centers on preserving the delicate nerve fibers that run along the outer layers of the prostate. These nerves are critical for erectile function, yet traditional prostate cancer surgery often sacrifices them to ensure all cancerous tissue is removed. Now, researchers have found a way to strike a balance between preserving these nerves and thoroughly eliminating cancer.

How NeuroSAFE Works

Unlike conventional procedures, NeuroSAFE includes an on-the-spot pathological examination to determine if nerve preservation is safe during surgery. Here’s how it works:

  • The prostate gland is removed with as much surrounding nerve tissue left intact as possible.
  • The extracted gland is flash-frozen, and specialists examine its edges for residual cancer cells while the patient is still on the operating table.
  • If cancer is detected near the nerve sites, the surgeon can make an informed decision to remove additional tissue, prioritizing complete cancer clearance.
  • If no cancer is found in these regions, the nerves remain untouched, improving the chances of postoperative erectile function.

The Clinical Trial: A Game Changer for Patients

A study conducted across five hospitals in the U.K. tested NeuroSAFE on 344 men undergoing prostate cancer surgery. The results were striking:

  • 39% of men who had NeuroSAFE-assisted surgery retained full or mild erectile function, compared to just 23% of those who had standard surgery.
  • Only 38% of men in the NeuroSAFE group experienced severe erectile dysfunction, versus 56% in the traditional surgery group.
  • The method did not affect the risk of urinary incontinence, though patients who underwent NeuroSAFE regained bladder control more quickly.

A More Precise Surgical Future

Traditionally, decisions about nerve-sparing surgery were based on MRI scans, biopsies, and rectal exams—useful but not foolproof indicators of cancer location. NeuroSAFE introduces certainty, giving surgeons the confidence to spare nerves whenever possible without increasing the risk of cancer recurrence.

Who Can Benefit from NeuroSAFE?

Not all prostate cancer patients require NeuroSAFE, as many can undergo standard nerve-sparing surgery successfully. However, this technique is particularly beneficial for:

  • Younger patients who are more concerned about long-term erectile function.
  • Men with more advanced tumors who might otherwise be ineligible for nerve-sparing surgery.

Looking Ahead

While the results are promising, researchers emphasize the need for long-term follow-up to assess whether NeuroSAFE impacts cancer recurrence rates. For now, it represents a significant step forward—one that could redefine how surgeons approach prostate cancer treatment and improve outcomes for thousands of men worldwide.

As research continues, NeuroSAFE could become a new standard in prostate surgery, offering hope to men who want both a cancer-free future and a preserved quality of life.