Optimizing prostate biopsy techniques for cancer detection

Identifying the Optimal Biopsy Scheme at MRI Target Biopsy

NA · IRCCS San Raffaele · NCT04183699

This study is testing how many biopsy samples are needed during an MRI-guided prostate biopsy to see if fewer samples can still effectively find prostate cancer in men who are suspected of having it.

Quick facts

PhaseNA
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment265 (estimated)
Ages18 Years to 80 Years
SexMale
SponsorIRCCS San Raffaele (other)
Locations1 site (Milan)
Trial IDNCT04183699 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This multicenter, paired-cohort, prospective, controlled study aims to determine the optimal number of systematic biopsy cores needed during an MRI-targeted biopsy for patients suspected of having prostate cancer. Participants will undergo an MRI-targeted biopsy followed by systematic sampling to compare the cancer detection rates between different core sampling strategies. The study hypothesizes that fewer systematic cores can effectively detect clinically significant prostate cancer, potentially streamlining the biopsy process. The same operator will perform all procedures to ensure consistency in technique and results.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are male patients aged 18 to 80 with a suspicion of prostate cancer and a positive mpMRI showing a lesion with a PI-RADS score of 3 or higher.

Not a fit: Patients with prior positive prostate biopsies or those with multiple lesions on mpMRI may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to more efficient prostate cancer detection methods, reducing the number of biopsy cores needed and minimizing patient discomfort.

How similar studies have performed: While similar approaches have been explored, this specific optimization of systematic cores in conjunction with MRI-targeted biopsies is relatively novel.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Male patients, aged between 18 and 80 years old with suspicion of prostate cancer
* Presence of a positive mpMRI of the prostate (visible lesion PI-RADS ≥ 3)
* Serum PSA ≤ 20ng/ml
* Suspected stage ≤ T2 on rectal examination (organ confined prostate)
* Fit to undergo a prostate biopsy
* Able to understand and willing to sign a written informed consent document

Exclusion Criteria:

* Prior positive prostate biopsy
* Prior treatment of the prostate
* Prostate volume \<30 ml at mpMRI of the prostate
* More than one lesion at mpMRI of the prostate
* Contraindication to prostate biopsy

Where this trial is running

Milan

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.

View on ClinicalTrials.gov →

Conditions: Suspicion of Prostate Cancer With a Positive Multiparametric Magnetic Resonance of the Prostate

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.