Trial results for an investigation into platelet-rich plasma (PRP) during radical prostatectomy for Prostate Cancer were posted on 2025-06-05. The study enrolled 24 participants to assess the safety and efficacy of PRP application to neurovascular bundles.
Background
Prostate cancer is a common malignancy affecting men globally. Radical prostatectomy, the surgical removal of the prostate gland, is a standard treatment option for localized prostate cancer. A significant concern following this procedure is the potential for damage to the neurovascular bundles, which can impact erectile and urinary function. Efforts to preserve or restore these functions are crucial for patient quality of life. Platelet-rich plasma (PRP), derived from a patient's own blood, contains growth factors that may promote tissue healing and regeneration, making it a candidate for improving recovery post-surgery.
Trial design
This completed study, designated as Phase NA, enrolled 24 participants with Prostate Cancer. The trial investigated the intraoperative application of autologous platelet-rich plasma (PRP) onto neurovascular bundles during radical prostatectomy. The primary aim was to determine the safety and efficacy of this procedure, specifically assessing its impact on the healing process, sexual function, and urinary function.
Key results
Key measurements from the trial included assessments of safety, sexual function, and urinary function:
- Safety of Using Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP) on the Neurovascular Bundle (NVB):
- For the Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP) Treatment group, one safety measurement reported 0 Participants.
- Another safety measurement for the Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP) Treatment group reported 2 Participants.
- A third safety measurement for the Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP) Treatment group reported 17 Participants.
- Change in Sexual Function Using International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF-5):
- For the Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP) Treatment group, median scores on a scale were reported as 25, 16, 19, 19, 20, and 20. These measurements included an Inter-Quartile Range, though the specific values were not provided.
- Change in Urinary Function (UF) Using the Expanded Prostate Cancer Index Composite (EPIC)::
- For the Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP) Treatment group, participant counts were reported as 18 Participants, 9 Participants, and 15 Participants.
What this means
This study provides initial data on the application of platelet-rich plasma during radical prostatectomy for prostate cancer, with a small cohort of 24 participants. The safety measurements reported participant counts of 0, 2, and 17 for different aspects of safety. Regarding sexual function, median IIEF-5 scores ranged from 16 to 25 on a scale. Urinary function assessments showed participant counts of 18, 9, and 15. These results represent early observations and contribute to the understanding of PRP's potential role in post-prostatectomy recovery. Further research with larger cohorts and defined endpoints would be necessary to establish definitive conclusions on the efficacy and long-term safety of this intervention.
Source
The information regarding these trial results was obtained from ClinicalTrials.gov, a public database of clinical studies. The results for study NCT02957149, titled "Platelet Rich Plasma During Radical Prostatectomy", were posted on 2025-06-05 on clinicaltrials.gov.