Prostate cancer is the second leading cause of cancer death in men. The cancer stems from a malignant tumor that originates in the prostate gland. As the tumor grows it can spread to other areas of the body, including nearby lymph nodes, bones and organs. In the past 20 years, five-year survival rates for all stages of prostate cancer combined have increased from 67% to 99% due to advances in medical technology and detection equipment. There are approximately 1.30 million prostate biopsies performed in the U.S. each year.
Envisioneering has developed a scanning technology that improves accuracy and outcomes of prostate diagnosis and treatment. The company’s initial product offering – the TargetScan System – combines 3D ultrasound technology with the ability to perform precise, targeted prostate biopsies. The Envisioneering probe is able to take readings at one-millimeter increments, substantially improving the quality of the 3-D images. Competitive products scan at increments of 5mm and offer only 10 to 15 widely spaced image slices.
The company’s hollow body probe facilitates the generation of movable images without requiring that the scanner or probe be physically moved once inside the body; the device remains stationary while imaging a full range of scan planes. TargetScan system can complete a 3D scan of the entire prostate in seconds.
Envisioneering’s Targeted Biopsy System leverages the advantages of the proprietary scanning probe in conjunction with planning software, redirecting needle guide and a bendable biopsy needle. The Stabilized Targeted Biopsy System allows a physician to more accurately target tissue sample collection in different quadrants of the prostate. The physician is able to insert a biopsy needle in the targeted area, and monitor both the accuracy of the biopsy needle position and the specific location of the tissue sample captured by the biopsy needle. Images can be captured and stored by the system, to verify the location of the tissue samples.
Over 5,000 urologists practicing in the U.S. use urological ultrasound systems for biopsy; approximately 1,300 new systems are purchased each year. An additional 800 centers use imaging systems for brachytherapy. The TargetScan System offers significant improvements over antiquated systems. Envisioneering has obtained FDA 510(k) clearance.