Medovate, J.E.B. Technologies Forge Distribution Deal for Prostate Biopsy Tech

A medical device designed to improve safety and comfort during prostate biopsies is now available to more U.K. healthcare providers, thanks to a new distribution agreement.

CamPROBE (Cambridge Prostate Biopsy Device), a product for performing transperineal prostate biopsies under local anesthetic, will reach a greater number of hospitals and clinics through a partnership between Medovate and J.E.B. Technologies, and newly appointed U.K. distributor Aquilant.

CamPROBE offers a less invasive, lower-risk alternative to traditional transrectal biopsy methods, providing access to all areas of the prostate while reducing the risk of complications such as infections. Unlike conventional methods, CamPROBE requires only two puncture points and allows simultaneous anesthetic delivery, which is intended to help provide a more comfortable patient experience.

Developed by Professor Vincent Gnanapragasam and his team at the University of Cambridge and Cambridge University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, CamPROBE is approved and in clinical use. Its simple, cost-effective design and ergonomic functionality represent a step-change in prostate biopsies, with the potential to set a new care standard, according to the product developers.

“CamPROBE has the potential to offer a safer, well tolerated method for conducting prostate biopsies,” said Stuart Thomson, vice president of Business Development at Medovate and J.E.B. Technologies. “This distribution agreement opens the door for wider adoption across the U.K., giving more men access to the alternative prostate biopsy approaches they deserve.”

The project was supported by Cambridge Enterprise, the university’s innovation arm, and Health Tech Enterprise, which provided commercialization and IP expertise. A grant from the National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR) supported the device’s clinical development and evaluation.

As prostate cancer remains one of the most common cancers in men, early detection through accurate and accessible sampling and diagnostics is critical. Key benefits of the CamPROBE device include:

• Transperineal access that reduces infection risk vs transrectal methods¹
• Simultaneous local anesthetic delivery through an integrated needle
• Ability to be angled and repositioned to reach potentially difficult areas of the prostate
• Less invasive approach, with just two puncture points and low patient pain scores
• Designed for easy access and reduced risk of needle stick injuries

“We are delighted to affiliate with Medovate and JEB to bring this important innovation to healthcare professionals across the United Kingdom,” Aquilant Limited U.K. Sales Director Steve Matthews stated. “With prostate cancer remaining a significant health concern, improving access to safer, more effective devices and equipment that can be used in the prostate biopsy and cancer diagnostic pathway is vital. This collaboration reflects our shared commitment to advancing men’s health innovation.”

Medovate is a U.K.-based medical device company bringing clinician-led innovations to market. Focused on improving patient care and safety, Medovate works in partnership with clinicians and NHS organizations to accelerate product development and launch pioneering technologies globally.

JEB Technologies is a specialist manufacturing and product development company based in the East of England. It works with clinicians and innovators to bring life-changing medical technologies to market with precision engineering and regulatory expertise.

Aquilant, part of the HC21 Group and the wider AddLife Group, supplies medical technologies in the U.K. and Ireland. Through strategic partnerships with both globally recognized manufacturers and emerging medtech innovators, Aquilant supports brands at every stage of their journey—from market entry and product launch to long-term growth. Our reputation is built on delivering commercial success through sales and marketing excellence, underpinned by strong customer engagement and clinical education initiatives.

As part of the pan-European AddLife Group, Aquilant benefits from the scale, expertise, and financial strength of a major healthcare organisation. AddLife AB, listed on Nasdaq Stockholm (Nordic Large Cap), comprises more than 85 independent companies operating in over 30 countries within the medtech and life science sectors. In 2024, AddLife reported more than SEK 10 billion (approximately €860 million) in annual revenue.

Cambridge Enterprise is the innovation arm of the University of Cambridge, supporting the transformation of academic research into global impact. Through commercialization and collaborative partnerships, it helps researchers bring ideas from bench to bedside.

Cambridge University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust (CUH) is one of the largest and best known trusts in the country, delivering high-quality patient care through Addenbrooke’s and the Rosie Hospitals. CUH is a leading national center for specialist treatment for rare or complex conditions and a university teaching hospital with a worldwide reputation.

The National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR) aims to improve the nation’s health and wealth through research.

References
¹ Clarke, H. PREVENT trial: Transperineal biopsy lowers infection risk vs transrectal biopsy. Urology Times, 2024.