HIFU

If you’re exploring treatment options for prostate cancer, you may have come across a therapy called HIFU.

HIFU stands for High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound. It is an innovative approach that uses concentrated sound waves to generate heat. This destroys targeted areas of prostate tissue affected by cancer.

Unlike traditional surgery or radiation therapy, HIFU is designed to treat only the specific area of concern. This helps preserve healthy prostate tissue and potentially reduces side effects.

If you’ve been diagnosed with localized prostate cancer, HIFU might be a viable treatment option.

During the procedure, an ultrasound probe is placed in the rectum to deliver focused sound waves directly to the prostate. These sound waves travel safely through healthy tissue and converge at a precise point. The targeted area is heated to 194°F. This intense heat destroys the cancerous tissue while leaving surrounding structures unharmed.

Advanced imaging, like MRI and real-time ultrasound, helps your doctor map and target the treatment area.

HIFU is usually performed under general anesthesia and takes about 1 to 2 hours. During the procedure, a catheter is placed to help you urinate while the prostate heals. This is typically kept in place for 5 to 10 days.

Most men can go home the same day after a short recovery period. You’ll need to take it easy for a few days, but you can gradually resume normal activities as you start feeling better. Your doctor will provide specific recovery instructions to help ensure the best possible outcome.

This approach provides several advantages over more invasive treatments, helping you recover faster.

• No surgical incisions are required.
• Targets cancer cells while sparing healthy surrounding tissue.
• Lower risk of side effects like urinary incontinence and erectile dysfunction. However, these risks are not completely eliminated.
• Outpatient procedure with a quicker recovery time.

HIFU is typically used for localized prostate cancer. This means the cancer is still contained within the prostate and has not spread to other parts of the body. It’s often recommended for cancers with a Gleason score of 6 or 7 or ISUP Grade Group 2 or 3. This means that the cancer cells are either:

• Low-grade and slow-growing
• Intermediate grade with a moderate growth rate

In these cases, the cancer is considered more manageable and suitable for targeted treatments like HIFU.

HIFU is also used for men with:

• Recurrent prostate cancer after prior treatments
• Health conditions that make surgery or radiation less desirable

It’s important to know that this treatment isn’t appropriate for cancer that has spread beyond the prostate. Additionally, while it offers many advantages, it may not eliminate cancer in all cases. Ongoing PSA monitoring will be needed after treatment.

While HIFU is generally well-tolerated, it’s not free of side effects. Some patients may experience:

• Temporary or, less commonly, long-term urinary difficulties
• Erectile dysfunction
• Urinary tract infections
• Rarely, injury to nearby tissues

Discussing the risks and benefits thoroughly with your doctor will help determine if HIFU is best for you.

1. How does HIFU compare to other prostate cancer treatments?

HIFU offers a less invasive option compared to surgery and radiation. It specifically targets cancerous tissue, helping preserve sexual and urinary function.

2. What should I expect during recovery?

Most men return to light activity within a few days. You’ll have a catheter temporarily to help with urination, and it’s normal to experience some mild discomfort. Full recovery varies from person to person, but many resume normal routines within a few weeks.

3. Will I still need cancer monitoring after HIFU?

Yes. Regular PSA blood tests and follow-up imaging are essential to monitor for any signs of recurrence. Treatment can be repeated if necessary or followed by other treatments if cancer returns.