At Molinette Hospital in Turin, the university urology department led by Prof. Paolo Gontero has marked a turning point in prostate cancer surgery: EchoLaser TPLA (Transperineal Laser Ablation). This focal therapy, performed by Marco Oderda and Alessandro Marquis, allows physicians to precisely target prostate tumors while preserving surrounding healthy tissue, thanks to ultra-thin laser fibers guided by advanced fusion imaging between ultrasound and MRI.
Another element of innovation? While awake under local anesthesia, the patient wears a virtual reality headset, being “transported” to tropical beaches, the Amazon rainforest, the Milky Way or underwater landscapes, accompanied by soothing sounds. Far from a mere distraction, this immersive approach serves as a psychological aid, helping to reduce stress and anxiety during surgery.
This combined approach – surgical precision and emotional comfort – represents a significant step toward a medicine increasingly focused on patient-centered care and quality of life after treatment.
For EchoLaser TPLA, it is a source of pride to contribute to a solution that not only treats cancer effectively but also restores patients’ serenity and dignity.