Hampshire Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust has treated its first patient in a global trial exploring Aquablation therapy for localised prostate cancer.

The Trust is one of five UK hospitals recruiting participants to the study, marking a milestone in its contribution to prostate cancer research.

Aquablation uses a robot-assisted, high-pressure waterjet to remove prostate tissue. It avoids thermal damage and aims to preserve key structures, reducing the risk of life-altering side effects linked to treatments such as radical prostatectomy.

Wayne Prosper, 55, was the first Trust patient to receive the treatment. Diagnosed with stage 2 prostate cancer in December 2025, he underwent Aquablation in February 2026 and is recovering well.

He said: “When I learned I had stage two cancer, I was told this particular cancer would be suitable for a new type of Aquablation therapy, and we talked about the opportunity to join a clinical trial. I was instantly delighted to be involved. When you hear the word ‘cancer’, you think of the worst, but being part of this study gave me a sense of purpose and helped me cope with the news.

“From my first conversation through to treatment and recovery, it’s been a wonderful experience. The care has been first-class, and I feel so privileged to have had such brilliant people supporting me. My strength has come back, I feel better every day, and I hope that continues as the trial goes on. For anyone who may be eligible, if the opportunity is there, I would encourage them to take part – it could be really change the way prostate cancer is treated for the better.”

Dr Richard Hindley, urology consultant at Hampshire Hospitals, said: “We are incredibly proud to be part of this important global research trial. This technology has the potential to transform prostate cancer care, preserving quality of life while delivering effective treatment, and our teams are deeply committed to bringing forward new therapeutic options like these to improve outcomes for our patients.

“It is excellent to see Wayne doing so well following his treatment, and we will continue to follow his and other patients’ progress over the months and years ahead.”

The study highlights the Trust’s commitment to research in patient care. This financial year, it has recruited 2,818 participants to more than 65 studies across more than 20 clinical specialties, including cancer care, reproductive health and trauma and emergency medicine.

More than 55 percent of current studies involve new drugs or medical devices, giving patients early access to treatments while supporting improvements in care across Hampshire Hospitals.