High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound (HIFU) for Prostate Cancer

What is High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound (HIFU)?

Focal therapy like HIFU targets cancerous prostate tissue with exceptional precision while sparing healthy tissue. It's a choice that comes with a low complication rate, and it's performed with either general or spinal anesthesia in an outpatient setting.

HIFU is a unique type of ultrasound that uses strong sound waves. These waves are precisely aimed at the area with cancer, creating a hot spot. This hot spot is like a targeted heat treatment that specifically eliminates the cancer cells within the gland while keeping the surrounding healthy tissue unharmed.

Advantages of HIFU Treatments

HIFU is an ideal treatment choice for patients with prostate cancer because of its:

• Non-invasiveness: HIFU requires no incisions, leaving you with no scars, no radiation exposure, and no blade. It's a gentle yet effective approach.
• Low risk of side effects: When it comes to potential side effects like incontinence and erectile dysfunction, HIFU stands out with an exceptionally low-risk profile.
• Quality of life preservation: HIFU minimizes the disruption to your daily life. You can return to work and leisure activities quickly, allowing you to maintain your quality of life.

HIFU Side Effects

The risk of side effects is generally lower with HIFU compared to more invasive prostate cancer treatments. In rare cases, potential side effects may include:

• Urinary symptoms: After HIFU, some individuals may experience temporary urinary issues, such as increased frequency, urgency, or discomfort while urinating. These symptoms typically improve over time.
• Erectile dysfunction: There is a risk of temporary or, in rare cases, permanent erectile dysfunction following HIFU. The extent of this side effect can vary from person to person.
• Incontinence: Some individuals may experience temporary urinary incontinence, which is the inability to control urine flow. This side effect usually improves with time but can persist in a small number of cases.

Talk to your health care provider about potential side effects and their likelihood before undergoing HIFU. 

Why Choose Hackensack Meridian Health for HIFU Treatment?

When it comes to prostate cancer treatment, you want the best care possible. Hackensack Meridian Health is the smart choice for treatment because you get access to:

• Pioneering innovation: We are among the pioneers in offering the latest advancements in non-invasive prostate cancer treatment. Our commitment to staying at the forefront of medical technology ensures that you receive the most advanced care available.
• Expertise and precision: At the heart of our success is Kevin Basralian, M.D., a world-renowned urologist at Hackensack University Medical Center. With over 15 years of experience and global recognition for his expertise in HIFU procedures, Dr. Basralian performs HIFU procedures and actively contributes to research in the field, making him one of the leading physicians in New Jersey for HIFU procedures.
• Patient-centered care: Your comfort, well-being, and quality of life are our top priorities. We tailor our approach to your unique needs, ensuring that you receive the personalized care you deserve.

Locations

HIFU for prostate cancer treatment is available at the following Hackensack Meridian Health locations:

Hackensack University Medical Center
30 Prospect Avenue
Hackensack,  NJ 07601