Francis Medical Introduces Vanquish Procedure for Prostate Tissue Ablation in the Midwest

Francis Medical Introduces Innovative Vanquish® Water Vapor Ablation System

On April 21, 2026, Francis Medical, Inc., a medical device company located in Maple Grove, Minnesota, proudly announced an important milestone in the treatment of prostate conditions. Dr. Aaron Milbank of Minnesota Urology successfully performed the inaugural commercial procedure utilizing the Vanquish® Water Vapor Ablation System, a minimally invasive solution for ablation of prostate tissue. This procedure took place at High Pointe Surgery Center in Lake Elmo, Minnesota, where it was carried out on a patient diagnosed with localized prostate cancer.

The Vanquish system represents a significant advancement in urological technology. Guided by both ultrasound and electromagnetic energy, this transurethral thermotherapy method aims to effectively ablate targeted prostate tissue while minimizing the associated risks often seen with traditional surgical approaches. Historically, treatments for prostate cancer can carry severe side effects such as urinary incontinence and erectile dysfunction, creating a pressing need for gentler methodologies.

The transformation from clinical trials to actual patient care began with Dr. Milbank's participation in the VAPOR 2 pivotal study, where the effectiveness of Vanquish was rigorously evaluated. He expressed confidence in this transition, stating, "Having been involved from the clinical perspective, moving to commercial use is a logical continuation that showcases the technology’s efficacy and safety."

The Vanquish system, which earned 510(k) clearance from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in November 2025, aims to revolutionize prostate cancer treatment. Encouraging preliminary results from the ongoing VAPOR 2 study have demonstrated significant success—91% of eligible patients achieved clearance of clinically significant disease after just one procedure.

Moreover, feedback indicates that the Vanquish procedure is well tolerated, presenting a significantly lower risk of serious adverse effects than traditional treatments. This advancement indicates not only a reduction in post-procedure complications but also a promise of improved patient quality of life.

Francis Medical's President and CEO, Mike Kujak, highlighted the importance of this development; he emphasized that this transition from clinical validation to real-world application represents a critical evolution in patient care. "Working alongside experienced investigators who participated in VAPOR 2, we hope to redefine the treatment paradigm in urology and contribute to enhancing patients' lives," he said.

Beyond the first commercial procedure, Francis Medical remains committed to ongoing patient evaluation. Their goal is to confirm long-term outcomes to advance the pre-market approval (PMA) for expanded indications in clinically localized prostate cancer management. This continuous investment in research will further enhance the quality of care provided to patients and expand treatment options.

The Vanquish technology aims to address one of the critical challenges in prostate cancer treatment: balancing effective disease management with the preservation of quality of life. By leveraging water vapor to deliver thermal energy for tissue ablation, the Vanquish system has the potential to minimize the traumatic side effects associated with other treatments.

In conclusion, with the successful launch of the first Vanquish procedure in the Midwest, Francis Medical is paving the way for a significant change in prostate cancer management. This milestone is not only a testament to medical innovation but also a beacon of hope for many patients seeking effective treatment options with fewer side effects. As Dr. Milbank continues to monitor outcomes and gather additional data, the potential for this technology seems immense, indicating a future where prostate cancer care is more compassionate and patient-centered.

For further information about Francis Medical and their innovative treatments, visit www.francismedical.com or call them at (763) 951-0370.