Hampshire Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust has successfully treated its first patient in a groundbreaking research trial exploring Aquablation therapy for localised prostate cancer.
Hampshire Hospitals is one of only five hospitals in the UK to recruit participants into this major global study, marking a significant milestone in the Trust’s contribution to prostate cancer research.
Unlike traditional treatments, Aquablation uses a robotic assisted, high-pressure waterjet to precisely remove prostate tissue. It avoids thermal damage and is designed to preserve key structures around the prostate, helping reduce the risk of life altering side effects commonly associated with treatments such as radical prostatectomy (complete prostate removal).
Wayne Prosper, aged 55 from Basingstoke, was the first patient at the Trust to receive the treatment. Diagnosed with stage two prostate cancer in December 2025, he underwent Aquablation therapy in February 2026 and is now recovering well.
Reflecting on his experience, Wayne 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 launch of the study highlights Hampshire Hospitals’ continued commitment to embedding research at the heart of patient care. So far this financial year, the Trust has recruited 2,818 participants into more than 65 research studies across over 20 clinical specialties — including cancer care, reproductive health and childbirth, and trauma and emergency medicine.
More than 55% of current studies at the Trust involve innovative new drugs or medical devices, giving local patients early access to cutting-edge treatments while helping drive improvements in care across Hampshire Hospitals.
Hampshire Hospitals is searching for more patients who fit specific criteria to take part in this Aquablation trial. Get in touch with our Research Team here for more information.
You can find out more about research at Hampshire Hospitals here.
