Detection of prostate cancer boundaries during radical prostatectomy

Important results from the project

Develop an instrument for mounting, rotation and cancer determination of the surface of a prostate gland in connection with surgery (radical prostatectomy) so that the surgeon can determine in real time the presence of cancer to get a cancer-free patient. Goal achievements: Developed a rotary arrangement, electronics and software for measuring on the rotating prostate surface the presence and localization of cancer cells. Verified the measurement method´s cancer predictive ability on prostate glands. Confirmed patentability and started market study for full business plan.

Expected long term effects

We have shown that the resonance sensor is a statistically significant predictor of cancer. Important steps are achieved towards a product, market and patent. Contacts are taken with Raman companies. Mechanics, electronics and software for rotation and cancer detection on the whole prostate are developed and verified. The instrument is patentable, and an in-depth market study is currently being carried out. The project has participated in the development of an innovation guide and applied horizontal criteria. Patient participation has verified relevance of our method.

Approach and implementation

Good collaboration between Region Västerbotten (RegV), Umeå University (UmU) and Luleå Tekniska Universitet (LTU). UmU Holding has supported business development. MEDSENS AB owns the basic patents. The participants´ skills have complemented each other perfectly. The project´s finances have been managed by RegV in coordination with other parties, LTU and UmU. Covid-19 has delayed the arrangement. It has been difficult to get the logistics to work with prostate glands for verification due to the risk of infection. Long-term illness has resulted in approved change in the budget.