What is high-intensity focused ultrasound?
High-intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU) is a minimally invasive, robotic-assisted cancer treatment that targets and eliminates cancer cells in the prostate. Using sound-wave energy delivered through the rectal wall, HIFU offers precise, focalized treatment to the prostate gland with limited side effects. Dr. Ali Kasraeian of Kasraeian Urology has advanced training in HIFU treatment and is one among very few urologists in Jacksonville, FL to offer this treatment.
What Are The Benefits Of HIFU?
A personalized HIFU treatment plan designed and performed by Dr. Kasraeian can effectively treat prostate cancer with a number of excellent benefits, including:
- No surgery, only minimally invasive
- Outpatient procedure (same-day)
- Precise, robotically-assisted procedure
- Side effects are limited
- Recovery time is shorter
- No radiation and associated recovery
- No scarring
- No damage to surrounding tissue
How does HIFU Help treat Prostate CAncer?
This minimally invasive prostate cancer treatment uses sound waves to target cancer cells through the wall of the rectum. Using MRI and ultrasound imaging, Dr. Kasraeian will determine where exactly to direct the sound waves before beginning the treatment. The sound waves will heat to around 90 C (194 F) during the treatment, effectively destroying cancer cells while avoiding harming the surrounding skin.
Who is a good candidate for HIFU?
Men with cancer that has not spread beyond the prostate are the best candidates for HIFU. Dr. Kasraeian may recommend HIFU as the first course of action or following radiation therapy, depending on your needs and condition. During a consultation at our practice, Dr. Kasraeian will determine your candidacy for the treatment and inform you of other potential treatment options based on your needs.
How is the Prostate Cancer treatment performed?
HIFU is performed under general anesthesia to keep you as comfortable as possible. The treatment could take between 2 – 4 hours, during which time a compact probe is gently inserted into the rectum to deliver the sound wave treatment. Patients may need a catheter during treatment and often will continue using the catheter for a short period following treatment.
How Long Is Recovery After HIFU?
HIFU for prostate cancer is typically performed as an outpatient procedure, meaning you will be able to go home after the procedure is completed; however, you will need someone to drive you. For a short period, patients may be required to wear a catheter due to short-term urinary problems. Patients should expect about two weeks of overall recovery time, but most can often return to work and other activities within 24 – 72 hours. Other short-term side effects can include small amounts of tissue and/or blood in the urine, UTIs (urinary tract infections), difficulty with erections, and fatigue. While the risk of long-term side effects with focal HIFU for prostate cancer is generally lower, some men may experience longer-term urinary issues (like frequency or a feeling of urgency) and erection issues. Dr. Kasraeian will monitor your recovery and can help address any possible issues if they arise.
HIFU FAQ
Is HIFU painful?
As the patient is put under general anesthesia, they won't feel anything during the procedure. Once they're awake, patients usually report feeling little to no pain.
What makes HIFU preferable to other treatments for prostate cancer?
HIFU is a minimally invasive procedure that does not require any lengthy recovery time and does not leave scarring. Additionally, it avoids the bouts of sickness that radiation treatments can cause.
How much does HIFU cost?
The price of HIFU may vary from one patient to another. During your consultation, we'll perform an in-depth assessment of your body to create a treatment plan, which will allow us to provide a detailed cost estimate.
Will I need additional prostate cancer treatments after HIFU?
You may. HIFU is still a relatively new treatment class, and prostate cancer can be an unpredictable disease. However, HIFU has become more effective, won FDA approval, and been associated with fewer risks as the years have gone by. If you do end up needing further treatment, Dr. Kasraeian will be able to advise you with your best interests in mind.
How do HIFU treatment devices ensure my skin won’t burn?
Even though ultrasound waves during HIFU treatment heat up to a temperature near the boiling point of water, patients should not worry about being scalded. The HIFU probe is surrounded by a cooling system that keeps the rectal wall at a temperature of about 60 degrees F while the ultrasound waves are targeting cancer cells.
Can HIFU be used for conditions other than prostate cancer?
While HIFU is primarily known for its use in treating prostate cancer, it has potential applications in other medical conditions, such as liver cancer, kidney cancer, and certain uterine conditions. Schedule a consultation with our team to find out if this noninvasive treatment is for you.
Schedule your treatment today
There is hope and healing on the horizon. At Kasraeian Urology in Jacksonville, FL, our urology specialists provide compassionate, patient-focused care. Our goal is to help you take control of your life and health by empowering you to make informed decisions about your care. Schedule a consultation today to learn more about HIFU.