Using low-field MRI and robotics for personalized prostate cancer surgery
Official title: Harnessing low-field MRI and robotics to enable personalized incisionless prostate surgery
Funded at Case Western Reserve University · NIH-11088128 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is exploring a new, less invasive way to treat prostate cancer using advanced MRI technology and a special robot to help doctors remove tumors more accurately, making the process easier and safer for patients.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Case Western Reserve University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Cleveland, United States) |
| Project start | June 1, 2024 |
| Project end | May 31, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $626,297 |
| NIH project number | 5R01CA281043-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11088128 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are men diagnosed with prostate cancer who are seeking less invasive treatment options.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with advanced prostate cancer requiring more extensive surgical intervention may not benefit from this approach.
What this research studies
This research aims to improve prostate cancer treatment by replacing traditional invasive surgery with a minimally invasive technique. It combines innovative low-field MRI technology with a specialized surgical robot that can precisely target and remove cancerous tissue through a standard endoscope. By integrating real-time imaging with surgical procedures, the goal is to enhance the accuracy of tumor removal while minimizing complications associated with conventional surgery. This approach seeks to provide a more personalized treatment option for patients diagnosed with prostate cancer.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to safer and more effective treatment options for men with prostate cancer, reducing the risk of complications such as impotence and incontinence.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown promise in using image-guided techniques for cancer surgery, indicating potential success for this novel approach.
Where this research is happening
-
Case Western Reserve University
Cleveland, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Grissom, William a — Case Western Reserve University
- Study coordinator: Grissom, William a
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About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.