Advanced Diffusion Magnetic reSonance Prostate Imaging for Reducing Extraneous Biopsies (ASPIRE) - Calibration Component (Multi-centre Scanner Calibration) and Validation Component (Multi-centre Validation)
Doctors often use MRI scans before a prostate biopsy. While MRIs are helpful, many men still have biopsies that show no serious cancer, leading to unnecessary worry and procedures. This study, called ASPIRE, aims to improve how we use MRI scans. We're testing three new, advanced types of MRI scans to see which one is best at identifying men who can safely avoid a biopsy. This could significantly reduce the number of unnecessary biopsies, making the diagnostic process safer and less stressful for patients. The study has different parts, including checking how these new scans work on MRI machines and comparing them with standard scans.
At a glance
What is this study about?
When doctors suspect prostate cancer, they often use an MRI scan first. This helps them see if there are any suspicious areas to guide where to take tissue samples (a biopsy). This has been a big improvement, as it means doctors don't have to take samples from all over the prostate randomly.
However, even with MRI scans, many men still have biopsies that, in the end, show no serious cancer. These biopsies carry risks like infection or bleeding and can be quite stressful. This study, called ASPIRE, wants to solve this problem. We're looking at advanced types of MRI scans that might be even better at telling us who truly needs a biopsy and who can safely avoid one.
Specifically, the study will compare three different new MRI techniques. By seeing which one is best at finding important cancers and ruling out less serious ones, we hope to improve how prostate cancer is diagnosed in the future. This could lead to fewer unnecessary biopsies, making the process much better for patients.
Key takeaways
- This study aims to reduce unnecessary prostate biopsies.
- It tests new MRI scans to identify men who can safely avoid a biopsy.
- Participation involves extra MRI scans, but your standard care remains unchanged.
- The goal is to make prostate cancer diagnosis safer and less stressful.
- You can withdraw from the study at any time without affecting your care.
Who may be eligible?
This study is for men aged 18 or older. You might be eligible if you're already scheduled for a prostate MRI, or if you've recently had an MRI showing a suspicious area for prostate cancer and are either being monitored or waiting for treatment. Some parts of the study also involve men who have recently had or are about to have a standard prostate MRI because of a concern about prostate cancer.
There are a few reasons why you might not be able to join. For example, if you can't have an MRI scan for medical reasons (like having certain metal implants), or if you've had a prostate biopsy very recently (within the last three months) or already had prostate cancer diagnosed or treated. Also, if you can't give your clear permission to take part, or if you can't travel to different hospitals if needed for some parts of the study, you wouldn't be able to join.
Could this study suit you?
Answer these quick questions to see if you may be eligible. This is a guide only — the research team makes the final call.
- Are you 18 years old or older?
- Are you able to have an MRI scan (no contraindications like certain metal implants)?
- Are you scheduled for a prostate MRI, or have you recently had one with suspicious findings?
- Are you willing and able to give your informed consent to participate?
What does participation involve?
Taking part in this study varies depending on which part you join. Some men might have an extra MRI scan added to their routine scan, while others might have a standard MRI plus the new study scans. Some specific parts of the study require you to have more than one MRI scan at different hospitals. For men joining the main validation part, you will receive a standard MRI scan plus the new advanced scans, but your usual care won't change based on the study scans. There are no medications involved. The total duration of your involvement will depend on the component you participate in, with some requiring a single visit and others multiple visits for scans.
Potential risks and benefits
Locations (1)
- University College London Hospitals NHS Foundation TrustVerified postcodeLondon, United Kingdom
Common questions
What is an 'advanced diffusion MRI'?
It's a special type of MRI scan that looks at how water moves inside tissues, which can help doctors learn more about the cells and potentially find cancer better.
Why is avoiding biopsies important?
Biopsies have risks like infection and bleeding, and can be stressful. If we can confidently tell who doesn't need one, it saves men from an unnecessary procedure.
Will my regular prostate cancer care change if I join?
No, your usual medical care and treatment decisions will continue as normal, based on standard diagnostic methods. The study scans are extra information for research.
How many times will I need to visit the hospital?
This depends on which part of the study you're in. Some parts might require one extra MRI scan, while others might involve a few scans, potentially at different hospitals.
What if I have metal in my body, can I still have an MRI?
No, if you have certain metal implants or other conditions that make an MRI unsafe, you would not be able to participate in the study.
How to find out more
Shonit Punwani, FRCR/MRCPUK/MBBS/PhD/BSc
Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.
Interested in taking part?
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