4 Other NICE recommendations on cryotherapy for the treatment of prostate cancer

4 Other NICE recommendations on cryotherapy for the treatment of prostate cancer

The National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence (NICE) has issued full guidance to the NHS in England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland on cryotherapy as a primary treatment for prostate cancer in November 2005.

Further recommendations have been made as part of the clinical guideline on prostate cancer published in February 2008, as follows:

High intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU) and cryotherapy are not recommended for men with localised prostate cancer other than in the context of controlled clinical trials comparing their use with established interventions.

Clinical and cost-effectiveness evidence was reviewed in the development of this guideline which has led to this more specific recommendation. More information is available. The IP guidance on cryotherapy as a primary treatment for prostate cancer remains current, and should be read in conjunction with the clinical guideline.