High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound (HIFU) is a medical procedure that uses ultrasound waves to generate heat and destroy targeted cancerous tissue. This minimally invasive approach is used to treat prostate cancer and offers a potential alternative to surgery or radiation, aiming to minimize side effects while targeting the tumor. Effectiveness of using HIFU depends on the type and stage of prostate cancer. Your AHN care team will help you understand your options.
A high-intensity ultrasound for prostate cancer works by:
Depending on the type and stage of the prostate cancer, using the high-intensity ultrasound procedure may have specific advantages compared to other treatment options given its minimally invasive approach and targeted technology. Your AHN Care Team will be able to walk through the specifics since it is highly individualized and depends on several considerations:
Since a high-intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU) is a minimally invasive treatment for various conditions like uterine fibroids, prostate cancer, and bone metastases, choosing a provider like AHN that offers this less invasive alternative to surgery can help you get back to living a full life. At AHN, our experienced providers use this state-of-the-art technology to deliver optimal results and safety for our patients. AHN has board-certified physicians with high success and low complication rates in your specific area of concern. Our comprehensive pre- and post-treatment support is vital for a positive experience. Don’t hesitate to speak with your AHN Care Team to help you make the best-informed decision for your health.
Your doctor will go over, in detail, what you should do to prepare for a HIFU treatment and will help answer any questions you have about the procedure. Common preparation includes being on a liquid diet, undergoing an enema to ensure the rectal cavity is clean and free of debris, and, sometimes, an antibiotic is given the evening prior to treatment.
The day of your HIFU procedure, you can expect to go under general anesthesia. The ultrasound is then placed in the rectum to deliver the treatment to the prostate. There is no incision, and the procedure usually takes around two hours. During a HIFU procedure for prostate cancer, you’ll lie on a treatment table while a probe is placed into your rectum to transmit ultrasound waves. During this time, your surgeon will be able to view real-time imaging of the area to assess how the procedure is treating the area.
Recovery from HIFU for prostate cancer varies, but generally involves some immediate discomfort and a gradual return to normal activities over several weeks. Immediately after, you might experience urinary frequency, urgency, or burning, and potentially some rectal discomfort or bleeding. These symptoms usually lessen within a few weeks. You may need to use catheters for a short time, and sexual function may be temporarily affected. Most individuals can return to light activities within a few days, and gradually resume normal activities over several weeks, though strenuous exercise should be avoided initially. Regular follow-up appointments are crucial to monitor healing and treatment effectiveness.
Your AHN Care Team is here to answer questions and help you understand your treatment plan. To get you started, we’ve collected some frequently asked questions that patients have about the high-intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU) procedure.
The success of HIFU for prostate cancer depends on various factors, including the stage and characteristics of the cancer, the patient’s overall health, and the skill of the performing physician. HIFU is generally considered effective for localized prostate cancer, with studies showing varying success rates in terms of controlling the cancer and preventing its spread. Your doctor can discuss the likelihood of success in your specific case based on your individual circumstances and test results. It’s important to remember that HIFU is not a cure for all prostate cancers and may not be suitable for everyone.
Side effects of HIFU can vary from person to person, but common ones include urinary urgency and frequency, burning during urination, and temporary rectal discomfort or bleeding. These side effects are usually temporary and lessen over time, often within a few weeks. Less common side effects can include erectile dysfunction, although this can also be temporary in some men. The severity of side effects can be influenced by the extent of the treatment and the individual’s response. Your doctor will discuss potential side effects and strategies for managing them.
While HIFU is a noninvasive procedure, it is not entirely painless. Many patients report feeling some discomfort during the procedure, which is often described as pressure or warmth in the area being treated. Pain medication is typically given to help manage any discomfort. After the procedure, you may experience some mild to moderate pain, which is usually manageable with over-the-counter pain relievers. Your doctor will work with you to manage any pain you experience, both during and after the treatment.
HIFU is generally considered a safe procedure when performed by experienced specialists in appropriate facilities. Like any medical procedure, there are potential risks and side effects. These risks are generally low, but can include those previously mentioned, such as urinary or rectal issues and erectile dysfunction. The potential benefits must be carefully weighed against these risks during the consultation process. Your doctor will discuss your individual risk factors and answer any questions you have about the safety of HIFU in your specific situation. Choosing a qualified and experienced HIFU provider is critical to minimizing risks.
Besides prostate cancer, HIFU can also treat a range of other conditions, leveraging its ability to precisely target and destroy tissue using focused ultrasound energy. These include:
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