New prostate surgery technique aims to save erections and bladder control

NCT ID NCT03317990

Ongoing Symptom relief Sponsor: University College, London Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jun 25, 2026 · Last updated Jun 26, 2026 · Updated 2 times

Summary

This trial tests a new surgical method called NeuroSAFE, which uses real-time tissue analysis during robotic prostate removal to help surgeons avoid damaging nerves that control erections and bladder function. About 407 men with prostate cancer will be randomly assigned to receive either the standard surgery or the NeuroSAFE technique. The main goal is to see if the new approach leads to better erectile function one year after surgery.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance: NeuroSAFE procedure (a surgical technique involving real-time analysis of removed tissue to guide nerve-sparing decisions)
What this could lead to: If successful, this technique could help men undergoing prostate cancer surgery retain better erectile function and urinary control, improving their quality of life.
What could go wrong: This is a relatively early-stage trial (IDEAL stage 3) with 407 participants, so results may not apply to all men. The technique requires specialized training and may not be widely available.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

prostate cancer

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

PROSTATE CANCER

Contacts and locations

Locations

NHS Greater Glasgow & Clyde

Glasgow, United Kingdom
North Bristol NHS Trust

Bristol, BS10 5NB, United Kingdom
Nottingham University Hospitals

Nottingham, United Kingdom
Sheffield Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust

Sheffield, S10 2JF, United Kingdom
University College London Hospital

London, NW1 2BU, United Kingdom

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