IceCure's ProSense® Cryoablation Shows Promising Results in Treating Kidney Tumors

Promising Results from IceCure’s ProSense® Cryoablation Treatment for Kidney Tumors

IceCure Medical Ltd. recently presented promising interim results on their ProSense® Cryoablation system at the Israeli Urological Association Conference in Eilat, Israel. The study, dubbed ICESECRET, explores the efficacy of this minimally-invasive technology for treating small renal masses (SRMs) in patients who are not candidates for conventional kidney surgery. Here’s a closer look at the findings that underline the potential of this technology in the medical field.

Background of the ICESECRET Study

The ICESECRET study is a multicenter clinical trial that has examined the use of cryoablation to eliminate kidney tumors, particularly focusing on masses under 5 cm. Conducted primarily at Bnai Zion Medical Center and Shamir Medical Center in Israel, the study involves 114 patients, all dealing with localized SRMs. The crux of the research is to assess the long-term safety and effectiveness of the ProSense® system in combating these tumors without the need for traditional surgical interventions.

Key Findings from Interim Results

The highlight of the interim analysis, which encompassed a mean follow-up period of 36 months for 111 patients, showcased a striking 88.7% success rate in preventing tumor recurrence among those without previous kidney cancer, specifically for tumors smaller than 3 cm. This impressive statistic is critical as kidney cancer incidence has been on the rise, with over 81,000 new cases expected in the U.S. alone for 2024.

In total, in 91 of the patients, around 82% observed no recurrence of tumors, which speaks volumes about the effectiveness of the ProSense® procedure. Additionally, the overall success rate—including cases that required more than one cryoablation session—stands at an encouraging 83.8%, with a slightly longer mean follow-up of 39.6 months.

Procedure Efficiency and Safety

Safety is paramount in medical procedures, and the findings indicate a commendable safety profile for the ProSense® system. The freezing technique had a success rate of achieving adequate ice ball formation—necessary for tumor destruction—at a remarkable 95.6%. While four serious adverse events were reported, most were mild and managed conservatively, with just a single severe complication arising seven months post-treatment.

Moreover, patients showcased preserved renal function, with no statistically significant changes in creatinine and hemoglobin levels post-procedure. Given that the average duration for the cryoablation procedure was approximately 25 minutes, this positions ProSense® as a viable option for rapid and effective treatment of kidney tumors.

A Step towards Accessibility in Kidney Cancer Treatment

Chief Executive Officer of IceCure, Eyal Shamir, voiced optimism over the results, highlighting the importance of offering non-surgical options for patients with SRMs. With ProSense® already approved for treating both benign and malignant kidney tumors across major markets including the U.S. and Europe, these findings could enhance accessibility and broaden treatment options for a demographic in dire need.

As kidney cancer's prevalence escalates, the role of innovative treatments like ProSense® becomes increasingly significant. The ProSense® Cryoablation System not only exemplifies cutting-edge medical technology but also brings a hopeful perspective to healthcare providers and patients dealing with renal tumors, emphasizing that effective treatment is within reach without resorting to invasive surgeries.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the interim findings from IceCure Medical's ICESECRET study signify a promising development in the fight against kidney cancer. With a high recurrence-free survival rate and a robust safety profile, ProSense® cryoablation represents a transformative approach in renal tumor management. It marks a crucial shift towards minimally invasive techniques in oncology, offering hope to many patients seeking alternatives to traditional surgical interventions.