HIFU Prostate Tissue Ablation

Houston Metro Urology is proud to be the first medical practice in Houston to offer FDA-approved HIFU prostate tissue ablation as an option to treat localized prostate cancer.

We are aware that when it comes to your prostate cancer, there are many options. Our goal is to provide patients with the ideal treatment plan to ensure the best possible outcome.

HIFU, or High-intensity Focused Ultrasound, is a non-invasive procedure, meaning no surgery is required. HIFU uses high-frequency ultrasonic waves to eliminate prostate cancer cells through the power of focused heat. A specialized probe is inserted through the rectum, where it administers focused ultrasonic waves to cancerous portions of the prostate gland.

When the probe is set into place, and the targeted area for treatment is acquired, a beam heats up to about 200 degrees Fahrenheit and administers a burst of heat to the affected area for 3 seconds. Each beam administered covers about 3 millimeters of tissue, which is about the size of a grain of rice. HIFU is extremely precise in sparing as many healthy prostate cells as possible while effectively disposing of the cancer.

How long does the HIFU procedure take?

The HIFU procedure can take 2½ – 4 hours depending on the size of the prostate, the number of areas that require treatment, and the physician’s skill level with the procedure.

Who would HIFU Benefit?

• Men whose prostate cancer is localized and has not spread
• Small to medium-sized prostates (Less than 30-50 grams)
• Salvage treatment for recurrent cancer after radiation or surgery
• If you are not a candidate for other kinds of treatments
• Patients who are currently under or who have failed active surveillance

What to expect after the procedure

• Normally, no hospital stay is required
• Not a painful procedure
• Most patients resume normal activities in less than a week but try to be cautious for 2 weeks
• May experience temporary bruising and swelling
• You may be unable to urinate for a few days. During the procedure, a suprapubic tube is placed in the bladder and removed several weeks later.
• May have a slow stream and or frequent urination for 2-3 months.
• You will undergo surveillance after HIFU, similar to surveillance done with other prostate cancer therapies.

Talk to your Houston Metro Urology physician today to determine if HIFU is a viable treatment option for you.