OncoSil Medical Ltd. (ASX: OSL) ("OncoSil"), a leader in localised treatment solutions for locally advanced pancreatic cancer (LAPC), has announced exciting progress in the PANCOSIL Investigator Initiated Clinical Trial.  Following the first successful patient treatment in November 2023, two more patients have been enrolled and treated with the innovative OncoSil™ device in April 2024.

Expanding Treatment Options Through the PANCOSIL Clinical Trial

Success in Treating Locally Advanced Pancreatic Cancer

The PANCOSIL trial, conducted in collaboration with AMC Medical Centre in Amsterdam, Netherlands, is designed to assess the safety and feasibility of a new approach to delivering the OncoSil™ device. This trial specifically focuses on a percutaneous (through the skin) application method, potentially widening the pool of medical professionals qualified to administer the therapy.

With the successful treatment of two additional patients in April 2024, a total of three individuals have now benefited from the PANCOSIL trial. This ongoing initiative aims to treat a total of 20 patients with the OncoSil™ device using the percutaneous approach. This represents a significant milestone for OncoSil, as it allows researchers to gather valuable data on the safety and efficacy of this new delivery method. The additional patients enrolled in the trial will further contribute to a robust dataset that can be used to support future regulatory submissions and commercialisation efforts.

The PANCOSIL Trial: A Promising Alternative for LAPC Patients

Advantages of Percutaneous Delivery in Oncological Treatments

The PANCOSIL trial explores the potential of the OncoSil™ device as an alternative treatment option for patients diagnosed with non-progressive, locally advanced, and unresectable pancreatic cancer. This specific form of cancer often proves challenging to treat due to limitations with traditional methods, such as surgery and external radiation therapy. Surgery may not be an option for all patients due to the location or size of the tumour, or the patient's overall health. External radiation therapy, while effective in some cases, can also damage surrounding healthy tissues, leading to unwanted side effects.

The percutaneous delivery method under investigation in the PANCOSIL trial offers several potential advantages. During this minimally invasive procedure, a radioactive agent is administered directly into the tumour through the skin using CT guidance. This approach has the potential to deliver a more concentrated radiation dose to the cancerous cells while minimising damage to surrounding healthy tissues compared to traditional external radiation therapy.

Expanding the Role of Interventional Radiologists and Oncologists

A successful PANCOSIL trial could pave the way for the inclusion of interventional radiologists and interventional oncologists in the pool of medical professionals qualified to administer the OncoSil™ device. This would significantly expand access to this potentially life-saving treatment for a wider range of patients.

OncoSil remains committed to the ongoing development and validation of the OncoSil™ device.  The company has already invested heavily in the PANCOSIL trial, demonstrating a strong commitment to exploring new and effective treatment options for LAPC patients.

What Are the Future Prospects for Regulatory Approval and Commercial Success of the OncoSil™ Device?

As the PANCOSIL trial progresses, OncoSil is actively working towards securing regulatory approvals and establishing commercial agreements. These milestones are crucial for bringing the percutaneous delivery method for the OncoSil™ device to a wider patient population. The ongoing success of the PANCOSIL trial represents a significant step forward for OncoSil. It signifies the company's dedication to improving patient outcomes and offering new hope to those battling LAPC. 

With continued progress in the trial and future regulatory approvals, OncoSil is well-positioned to revolutionise pancreatic cancer treatment and make a meaningful difference in the lives of countless patients.