NICE has developed a Medtech Innovation Briefing (MIB) on the Oncentra Prostate v4.x ultrasound-guided real-time HDR brachytherapy in men with localised prostate cancer.

The Oncentra Prostate system enables a single-step, real-time high-dose rate prostate brachytherapy workflow that aims to reduce both the number and complexity of steps involved in administering the radiotherapy treatment plan. The system provides the clinician with 3D ultrasound guidance to show precisely where in the prostate gland the applicators are inserted, and it gives a clear view of the surrounding organs at risk from the radiation dose.

Medtech Innovation Briefings provide a description of the medical technology, including its likely place in therapy, the costs of using the technology and a critical review of the strengths and weaknesses of the relevant published evidence.

Their purpose is to provide objective information on device and diagnostic technologies to aid local decision-making by clinicians, managers and procurement professionals. By making this information available, NICE helps to avoid the need for NHS organisations to produce similar information for local use.

Medtech Innovation Briefings are not NICE guidance. They differ in format, contain no judgement on the value of the technology and do not constitute a guidance recommendation.

MIBs are commissioned by NHS England and produced in support of the NHS 5 Year Forward View, specifically as one of a number of steps which will accelerate innovation in new treatments and diagnostics.