New study on the treatment of muscle-invasive bladder cancer
From July 2024
A new, promising phase 3 trial is investigating an innovative treatment method for patients with muscle-invasive bladder cancer that can avoid the removal of the bladder. The SunRISe-2 trial compares the efficacy and safety of a combination of two new therapies with conventional chemoradiotherapy.
The usual treatment for muscle-invasive bladder cancer is the current standard of radical cystectomy, which involves removing the entire bladder. The procedure involves a hospital stay of almost 2 weeks and is often associated with the need for an artificial urinary tract outlet.
In the SunRISe-2 trial, the drug TAR-200, an innovative system for the continuous release of gemcitabine directly into the bladder, is being tested in combination with cetrelimab, an immunotherapy. This combination aims to have an antitumor effect both locally in the bladder and throughout the body.
Importantly for patients, this new treatment strategy aims to preserve the bladder while still effectively fighting the cancer. The study is taking place at over 270 study sites worldwide. Patients taking part in the trial will receive either the new combination therapy or chemoradiotherapy. The effectiveness of the treatment will be monitored regularly.
The hope for the future is to find a gentler yet effective alternative to radical cystectomy for patients who refuse to have their bladder removed or for whom surgery cannot or may not be performed for medical reasons.