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High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound (HIFU) Therapy
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Target damaged or cancerous tissue without harming nearby healthy tissue.
HIFU, or high-intensity focused ultrasound, is an innovative medical imaging technique that harnesses ultrasonic waves with amplified acoustic energy levels. This method operates at frequencies that are above the range of human hearing, typically in the megahertz range. By harnessing this powerful sound energy, HIFU allows for the precise and detailed visualization and manipulation of internal anatomical structures without the need for invasive procedures.
HIFU utilizes the concepts of wave propagation and scattering to produce intricate visual representations of tissues and organs inside the body. The high-intensity aspect refers to the concentrated amount of energy delivered by the ultrasound waves, facilitating improved penetration through skin and other superficial layers. As these waves come into contact with different substances, such as soft tissues or fluids, they experience a range of acoustic interactions that are closely observed and examined for diagnostic reasons. Furthermore, HIFU has emerged as a therapeutic tool in recent years, allowing targeted ablation or destruction of specifically identified pathological tissue regions without resorting to surgical intervention.
The integration of high-intensity focused ultrasound into clinical practice offers numerous advantages over traditional imaging modalities. Its non-invasive nature minimizes patient discomfort and eliminates the risks associated with invasive procedures. Additionally, its ability to produce real-time images enables dynamic monitoring during interventions. Moreover, HIFU’s precise targeting capabilities reduce collateral damage to surrounding healthy tissues while maximizing treatment effectiveness.
In relation to HIFU therapy for prostate cancer, precise ultrasound beams are carefully directed towards the impacted section within the prostate gland. These concentrated ultrasonic waves generate localized heat, which effectively destroys malignant cells while sparing surrounding healthy tissue. The utilization of high-intensity focused ultrasound allows for accurate targeting and confinement of thermal energy deposition, ensuring maximal efficacy in tumor ablation. With this non-invasive approach, HIFU offers an attractive alternative to traditional interventions such as surgical radical prostatectomy or radiotherapy, which eliminates concerns associated with radiation exposure.
As with any medical procedure, it is essential to consult with a qualified medical physician like Dr. Raj to determine if High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound Therapy (HIFU) is suitable and safe for you. Dr Raj will consider your unique circumstances and discuss potential benefits as well as any associated risks or limitations.
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Dr. Eugene Rajaratnam
MD, FACS, ABAARM
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Medical Director, Urology Specialist
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Who is High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound Therapy for:
Patients presenting with localized or locally advanced prostate cancer who exhibit favorable prognostic indicators. Additionally, patients with contraindications or intolerance to conventional treatments like surgery or radiation may also benefit from this non-invasive alternative.
Why is High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound Therapy beneficial:
There are numerous advantages associated with the use of HIFU for treating prostate cancer. HIFU exhibits exceptional precision and accuracy in targeting malignant tissues within the prostate gland, thereby minimizing collateral damage to adjacent healthy structures. HIFU has garnered significant potential to eradicate prostate tumors while preserving genitourinary function and quality of life.
Other traditional treatment methods such as radical prostatectomy or radiotherapy often result in significant morbidity and have negative impacts on urinary continence and sexual potency.
What to expect from High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound Therapy:
Our doctor typically commences with an initial assessment of the patient's condition and identification of the affected prostatic region necessitating intervention. Once the evaluation is complete, patients are positioned in a supine position and scanned using ultrasound imaging device. A transrectal probe is introduced into the rectum to facilitate accurate targeting and guidance throughout the intervention. The probe will emit ultrasonic energy at specific frequencies, contingent upon optimal tissue penetration and absorption characteristics. By directing several beams towards specific locations within the prostate gland, targeted heating is achieved, resulting in the destruction of cancerous tissues through coagulative necrosis. As a result of this ablation, tumors are reduced and the symptoms associated with them improve, ultimately allowing patients to regain their quality of life.
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Where to schedule a consultation:
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