ESIR 2026: Prostate Biopsy and Focal Therapy

ESIR 2026: Prostate Biopsy and Focal Therapy is organized by Cardiovascular and Interventional Radiological Society of Europe (CIRSE) and will be held from Nov 19 - 20, 2026 at Radboud University Medical Center Department of Medical Imaging, Nijmegen, Gelderland, Netherlands.

Description:
Prostate biopsy and focal therapy have emerged as transformative interventional radiology techniques for the diagnosis and minimally invasive treatment of localized prostate cancer. Advances in imaging, targeting precision, and ablative technologies have significantly improved the safety and efficacy of these procedures. As with any evolving intervention, a detailed understanding of prostate anatomy, lesion characterization, and treatment endpoints is essential for optimal outcomes.

Participants of this year’s ESIR course will gain a unique opportunity to acquire hands-on experience in MRI-guided prostate biopsy and focal therapy, utilizing cutting-edge simulator technology and a dedicated live lab environment. The course will allow physicians to refine their procedural skills, with particular emphasis on image-guided targeting, the anatomy of the prostatic and periprostatic structures, and real-time treatment assessment.

Attendees will explore the pathophysiology and imaging features of clinically significant prostate cancer, learn patient selection criteria, and receive practical instruction on the interpretation of multiparametric MRI (mpMRI) and real-time imaging guidance. Experts will lead case-based discussions on various focal therapy modalities - including laser ablation, cryotherapy, high-intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU), and irreversible electroporation (IRE) - sharing procedural strategies, device selection, and periprocedural decision-making.

The course will also address key aspects of practice development, including data collection, outcome tracking, and follow-up protocols. Urologists and radiologists will jointly participate to provide a comprehensive, multidisciplinary perspective on the evolving role of focal therapy and targeted biopsy within the broader prostate cancer treatment algorithm.