First Patient Treated in the Precision Study
British 71-year old prostate cancer patient treated in Spring 2025
The patient had no symptoms when he first requested a PSA test as a precaution six years ago. That test ultimately led to a prostate cancer diagnosis and several years of active surveillance. He spent years hoping the cancer would remain stable. However, when it became clear that treatment would be necessary, he began seriously exploring alternatives. From the beginning, the patient hoped to avoid invasive treatment.
”The thought of surgery felt extreme, like trashing the whole kitchen just to remove the sink”.
In 2025, as the tumor began to grow, he was offered the opportunity to participate in the Precision Trial, an experience that would shape both his treatment and his outlook. What convinced the patient to move forward was the potential of new-generation targeted radiotherapy. Instead of 20 or more sessions, he learned that the trial only involved three highly precise treatments. It was a significant shift from what he had expected, and it changed everything. He found the treatment process remarkably straightforward and appreciated its speed, efficiency, and minimal disruption to his daily life.
“You drive yourself to the clinic, get treated for five to six minutes, change clothes, and go home. No bed rest, no major downtime.”
The patient, being someone with previous technical experience, the engineering aspects of the system stood out.
“The precision allows for adaptive responses: if the target moves more than two millimeters, the system can halt the treatment. This eliminates risks of overdosing surrounding tissue.”
The presence and philosophy of his consultant, Prof. Duncan McLaren, also made a deep impression.
“He’s known for his patient-first approach and his goal of achieving zero side effects from treatment. That may sound ambitious but having that as a guiding principle means every decision is made with care, innovation, and constant improvement in mind.”
Within three days, the catheter was removed. From the next day, the patient regained full bladder control, a result he hadn’t expected so soon. He reported no incontinence, no nighttime bathroom visits, and no deterioration in erectile function. Eleven days after his final treatment, he had returned fully to his normal routines. More than just a medical procedure, the treatment became an opportunity to contribute to future care.
“One of the main reasons I signed up was to help get the trial moving. Once they reach the required number of cases, the treatment could potentially be recognized as a standard, a cost-efficient option.”
This patient’s story is an example of how innovative technology, guided by compassionate care and patient-centred design, can deliver not only clinical success but dignity, simplicity, and hope for the future.