HIFU Treatment for Prostate Cancer: A Promising New Approach

Doctors and researchers are constantly looking for newer and safer treatments for cancer. High intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU) is a new type of treatment that will hopefully replace other cancer treatments with negative side effects.

Function

• HIFU uses high frequency sound waves to kill cancer cells by directing the waves directly onto cancerous tumors. It only treats single tumors, not widespread tumors.

Features

• For prostate cancer, an ultrasound probe is inserted into the rectum to accurately aim sound waves at the prostate. HIFU for prostate cancer may replace radical prostatectomy or radiotherapy as long as the results are as good and long-lasting.

Expert Insight

• The National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence does not recommend HIFU for localized prostate cancer unless it is for a clinical trial. Men should also be warned that not everything is known yet about HIFU, including side effects and lasting results.

Benefits

• The Prostate Cancer Research Institute notes the advantages of HIFU over radiation treatment, including its ability to destroy cancer tissue without harming normal adjacent tissue.

Considerations

• HIFU is not effective if the cancer has spread to other parts of the body. Also, because HIFU is mainly used in clinical trials, surgery would follow treatment to study to its effects.