High Intensity Focused Ultrasound –
(HIFU)
Treatment for Prostate Cancer
A minimally invasive prostate cancer treatment now available at
Springfield hospital
According to Cancer Research UK, more than 36,000 men in the
United Kingdom are diagnosed with prostate cancer each year. It
differs from most other cancers in the body, because small areas of
cancer within the prostate are very common and may stay dormant for
many years.
PROSTATE CANCER FACTS
- Prostate cancer is the most common cancer in males and
- the second leading cause of male cancer deaths.
It is most common among men between the ages of 60 and 80.- Known risk factors include age, race and family history.
- The early stages of prostate cancer generally show no
symptoms.
- When the tumour becomes more advanced, patients may
- experience a weak urinary stream, the inability to
urinate,
- interruption of urinary stream, frequent urination (especially
at
- night), pain or burning during urination, and blood in the
urine.
- It is important, however to remember that these symptoms
are
- not specific and may be a result of benign prostatic
enlargement.
Traditional Treatment Options
There are numerous treatment options for localised prostate
cancer and each has its own benefits and drawbacks. Patients and
their physicians must weigh many factors when determining the best
treatment option.
Some patients choose no treatment at all, called watchful
waiting or
active surveillance, because of the potential effects on quality
of life
after treatment.
Springfield hospital is now able to offer:
High Intensity Focused Ultrasound (HIFU)
HIFU is a therapy option for localised prostate cancer that may
offer a balance between eliminating cancer and maintaining quality
of life. It is an out-patient, non-surgical, radiation-free
procedure that you can truly walk away from.
Customised HIFU Treatment Options
Due to the precision and flexibility of Sonablate HIFU, patients
and
physicians can decide on a customised treatment plan tailored to
their prostate cancer diagnosis.
Is it a one-time procedure or do I need multiple
treatments?
In most cases, Sonablate HIFU is a one-time procedure
that takes approximately two to four hours depending on the
size of the prostate. HIFU may be repeated if necessary, and unlike
radiation, HIFU is a clean energy source and will not prevent
patients from pursuing other types of therapy in the event of a
recurrence.
How do I know if I am a candidate for HIFU?
If you have been diagnosed with localised prostate cancer,
cancer that has not spread or metastasized outside of the gland,
you may be a candidate for HIFU. You should discuss your
individual
medical records and history with a physician in order to confirm
whether or not you are a candidate for HIFU.
What should I expect after I have HIFU?
A catheter is left in place following the procedure for
drainage of urine and will remain for two to three weeks (varies
according to each patient). There is typically little pain
associated with the
procedure and patients usually get back to their normal routine
within a few days.
As with all medical procedures, the results
vary by patient. Consult your physician to fully understand the
side effects and complications associated with the HIFU
procedure.
.
All medical procedures have risks and benefits; all potential
side effects and complications should be discussed with a physician
prior to undergoing any procedure. Please see www.ukhifu.com for the potential side
effects and a complete list of possible complications from the HIFU
procedure.
.
For more information call: 01245 234110
Reference: UK HIFU