HIFU for Prostate Cancer
High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound (HIFU) is a minimally invasive treatment that uses focused ultrasound energy to thermally ablate targeted prostate tissue—typically for select cases of localized prostate cancer or specific salvage situations.
1056 E Osceola Pkwy, Kissimmee, FL 34744 • (407) 766-6080
HIFU Kissimmee • HIFU Orlando • Prostate Cancer Treatment • Osceola County • Central Florida
What Is HIFU?
Prostate HIFU delivers concentrated ultrasound energy to a defined treatment zone to heat and ablate targeted prostate tissue. The Sonablate system is an FDA-cleared high-intensity ultrasound system for prostate tissue ablation.
Do I Qualify for HIFU?
HIFU is typically considered for localized prostate cancer (not spread beyond the prostate) and, in certain settings, for non-metastatic recurrence after radiation. Eligibility is determined by biopsy, imaging, PSA trends, prostate size/anatomy, and overall health.
A consultation is required to confirm candidacy and compare alternatives (active surveillance, radiation, surgery, etc.).
What to Expect
Many centers perform prostate HIFU as an outpatient procedure. Protocols vary, but commonly include prep instructions, anesthesia, and temporary urinary catheterization. Imaging guidance is used to target and monitor the treatment zone.
Other Considerations
Side effects vary by patient and treatment extent. Temporary urinary symptoms can occur, and erectile function may change. We’ll review risks, benefits, alternatives, and what follow-up testing typically looks like.
HIFU in Kissimmee (Orlando Area)
We serve patients across Kissimmee, Orlando, and Central Florida. If you’ve been diagnosed with localized prostate cancer and want to discuss HIFU, we’ll review records and outline appropriate options.
FAQs
Is prostate HIFU FDA-cleared? +
Certain HIFU systems are FDA-cleared for prostate tissue ablation. Your consultation will confirm whether HIFU is appropriate for your diagnosis and goals.
Who is a typical candidate for HIFU? +
HIFU is typically considered for localized prostate cancer and may be considered in selected salvage situations after radiation if disease is non-metastatic. Eligibility depends on staging, biopsy, imaging, anatomy, and health history.
How is HIFU performed? +
Prostate HIFU generally uses a transrectal probe to deliver focused ultrasound energy to targeted treatment zones under imaging guidance.
Is HIFU a replacement for surgery or radiation? +
Not always. Standard options like active surveillance, surgery, and radiation remain important depending on risk category. We’ll review all appropriate options for your case.
What is recovery like? +
Recovery varies. Many patients resume light activities relatively quickly, but temporary urinary symptoms and catheter use can occur depending on the treatment plan.
Are there side effects? +
Side effects vary. Urinary symptoms and erectile changes can occur. Your provider will review individualized risks, expected recovery, and alternatives.
Credible Sources (Links)
- FDA De Novo review: high intensity ultrasound system for prostate tissue ablation (device type): https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/cdrh_docs/reviews/DEN150011.pdf
- Mayo Clinic: High-intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU) overview: https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/high-intensity-focused-ultrasound/about/pac-20596150
- American Urological Association: Clinically localized prostate cancer guideline page: https://www.auanet.org/guidelines-and-quality/guidelines/clinically-localized-prostate-cancer
- PubMed: Sonablate HIFU clearance / overview paper: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34499554/
- Sonablate manufacturer site: https://www.sonablate.com/
- UCLA Health: HIFU overview (program example): https://www.uclahealth.org/cancer/cancer-services/prostate-cancer/treatment/intermediate-risk-prostate-cancer/hifu