University Endowment Lands

Researchers are comparing two imaging methods, MRI and micro-ultrasound, in monitoring prostate cancer during active surveillance. The study focuses on detecting progression to clinically significant prostate cancer, particularly Gleason Grade Group 2 or higher, by using targeted biopsies guided by both imaging techniques. Blood samples will also be collected for future biomarker research. During a single biopsy session, participants will first undergo a micro-ultrasound guided biopsy of areas of interest while blinded to MRI results. Then, the MRI fusion software will be activated, and additional biopsy samples will be taken from MRI-identified lesions. Up to two regions of interest from either imaging method will be targeted with up to three biopsy cores each. If regions identified by MRI and micro-ultrasound overlap, the same cores will count for both methods. Finally, a standard 12-core systematic biopsy will be performed. Participants will have biopsies during one session, with cancer progression assessed immediately after. The study will measure cancer upgrading detected by micro-ultrasound compared to MRI and systematic biopsy. Researchers will monitor results to evaluate which imaging technique better detects significant prostate cancer during active surveillance. The study is sponsored by the University of Alberta and will continue until 2033.