EREctile Function Preservation for Prostate Cancer Radiation Therapy (ERECT)

Launched by UMC UTRECHT · Apr 22, 2021

Keywords

ClinConnect Summary

The ERECT trial is studying a new way to help preserve erectile function in men with low- or intermediate-risk prostate cancer who are receiving radiation therapy. In this study, 70 men will undergo a specific type of radiation treatment called magnetic resonance guided adaptive radiotherapy (MRgRT). This approach aims to protect important areas around the prostate that are crucial for maintaining erectile function while effectively treating the cancer. Participants will receive five sessions of radiation, each delivering a precise dose.

To join the trial, men must be at least 18 years old and have been diagnosed with prostate cancer that meets certain criteria, such as having a low-risk or intermediate-risk classification. They also need to show some level of erectile function as measured by a specific questionnaire. Participants will be closely monitored throughout the trial, and they will have the opportunity to contribute to important research that may improve treatment options for future patients. It’s important to note that not everyone will qualify, as those with more advanced cancer or certain prior treatments may be excluded.

Gender

MALE

Eligibility criteria

• Inclusion Criteria:
• • Age ≥18 years
• • Histologically proven adenocarcinoma of the prostate
• • Low-risk or intermediate-risk prostate cancer according to NCCN risk categories (low risk: T1c-T2a, Gleason score ≤6, and PSA \<10 µg/L; intermediate risk: T2b-T2c or Gleason score 7 or PSA 10-20 µg/L)
• • Patients with pT1a/b tumor diagnosis after transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP)
• • Domain score of 17-25 on the International Index of Erectile Function-5 (IIEF-5) questionnaire
• • Karnofsky score of 70-100
• • Written informed consent
• Exclusion Criteria:
• • Use of (neo-)adjuvant androgen deprivation therapy
• • High-risk prostate cancer according to NCCN risk categories (T3a or Gleason score 8-10 or PSA \>20 µg/L)
• • Patients with "bulky" iT3 tumor diagnosis
• • Previous pelvic irradiation or radical prostatectomy
• • Clinical evidence of metastatic disease
• • Patients who are unable to undergo MRI
• • Patients who are incompetent to sign written informed consent