Dr. Sandip Prasad leads an international trial that brings new bladder-sparing therapy to patients
The recent FDA approval of Zusduri™ (mitomycin) marks a significant advance for patients with low-grade, intermediate-risk non-muscle invasive bladder cancer (NMIBC). Atlantic Health System played a central role in making it happen, driven by the leadership of its clinicians and the scientific rigor of the Atlantic Center for Research (ACR), the system’s hub for cutting-edge, patient-centered, translational, and clinical research.
Sandip Prasad, MD
Director of Genitourinary Surgical Oncology
Morristown Medical Center
Dr. Sandip Prasad, Director of Genitourinary Surgical Oncology at Morristown Medical Center, served as lead investigator for the pivotal ENVISION phase 3 trial. His leadership and close coordination across Atlantic Health System’s Urology and Oncology programs helped deliver a therapy many patients have been waiting for.
“A critical component of our urologic oncology program is our robust research programs aiding in the development and evaluation of novel treatments,” said Dr. Prasad. “We are proud to help bring about this clinical innovation, which treats bladder cancer without surgery.”
Giving Patients a Choice Beyond Surgery: What This Means for Providers and Their Patients
Bladder cancer is one of the most common cancers in the U.S., but treatment options have long been limited, especially for those facing recurring, low-grade disease. For many, the standard approach has meant undergoing repeated surgeries, with frequent monitoring and disruptions to daily life.
Zusduri™ (previously known as UGN-102) offers a different path. It’s a reverse thermal gel containing mitomycin, administered through a catheter into the bladder. Once inside the body, it warms and solidifies, releasing the chemotherapy drug slowly and directly where needed.
For patients, that means a non-surgical treatment that delivers real results. In the ENVISION study, most patients achieved a complete response, and many stayed disease-free for up to 12 months. That evidence helped pave the way for FDA approval in June 2025.
A Strong Showing from Atlantic Health System and the ACR
Atlantic Health System was among the top-enrolling sites in the country for the ENVISION trial, thanks to the tightly integrate collaboration between the teams at Morristown Medical Center and the ACR. That achievement reflects a shared commitment across clinical and research teams, from physicians and coordinators to nurses and patient navigators.
“We recognized early on that this trial had the potential to change the standard of care,” says Dr. Prasad. “It’s incredibly rewarding to see patients benefit from a treatment that can preserve their quality of life while sparing them from surgery.”
The Atlantic Center for Research (ACR) advances the science behind Atlantic Health’s award-winning care network by supporting industry and federally sponsored research in oncology, cardiology, neurology, and other fields.
The ACR is the hub for cutting-edge, patient-centered, translational, and clinical research, with the potential to directly impact patient outcomes and shape the future of personalized care.
Through collaboration with UroGen Pharma and other international partners, the ACR played a pivotal role in designing and managing the ENVISION trial at Atlantic Health System, ensuring it met the highest standards of scientific rigor and operational excellence.
Built on Collaboration, Focused on the Patient
The trial was so successful at Morristown Medical Center because of how Atlantic Health System’s cancer care teams work together. Urology and Oncology specialists regularly partner to design care plans that reflect each patient’s individual needs, following the latest research and clinical guidelines.
That same teamwork powers the system’s research efforts, ensuring patients have early access to new therapies and investigational treatments, often before they’re widely available.
“This is the kind of innovation we aim for every day,” says Dr. Eric Whitman, medical director of Atlantic Health System Cancer Care. “We want our patients to get access to the most innovative and sophisticated therapies for cancer.”
A Step Forward for Patients, and for Cancer Innovation
The approval of Zusduri™ is just one example of how Atlantic Health System continues to lead in cancer care. The system is known for high-quality outcomes in bladder, prostate, and kidney cancers from early detection through clinical trials and advanced therapies.
Dr. Prasad’s role in urologic oncology and Atlantic Health System’s ongoing commitment to physician-led research underscore its growing impact on shaping the future of cancer treatment.
For referring providers, Zusduri™ introduces a new, office-based treatment option for patients who may otherwise face surgery or limited alternatives. It also helps reduce the strain on operating room resources and opens the door to more flexible, patient-centered care.
For patients, it offers a meaningful option and peace of mind.
“This is just the beginning,” says Dr. Prasad. “We’re building a future where more patients can avoid surgery, live longer, and stay engaged in their lives, families, and communities because we believe in the power of research and collaboration.”
Refer with Confidence
As Atlantic Health System continues to expand access to advanced treatments through clinical trials and multidisciplinary care, providers can refer patients with confidence, knowing they will benefit from expert coordination and compassionate support.
Learn more about Urology and Oncology services at Atlantic Health System