High-intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU) at Oxford, The Manor Hospital

Day case focal therapy

For many men, major surgery or extensive radiotherapy for prostate cancer isn't necessary. Focal therapy, such as HIFU and NanoKnife, represents a revolutionary, minimally invasive day-case procedure. By treating only the specific area affected by cancer, it protects surrounding tissue and boasts excellent preservation rates for both continence and erectile function, avoiding the bothersome side effects often associated with radiotherapy or full surgical removal.

What is HIFU?

HIFU is a treatment that uses high-frequency sound waves to destroy cancerous cells in the prostate.

What are the benefits of HIFU?

The are many benefits to HIFU:

• It’s a customisable treatment, meaning consultants can target only affected areas.
• It avoids any invasive surgery or radiation
• A reduced risk of side effects compared to traditional surgery
• Because HIFU is minimally invasive, it can be performed multiple times if needed

Who can have HIFU?

Your consultant may recommend HIFU only if your cancer is contained in the prostate. If it has spread to other areas, HIFU would not be possible.

It can also be used if your cancer has come back as a subsequent treatment.

What happens in a HIFU procedure?

HIFU treatments happen when you are under general anaesthetic. You will then have a catheter inserted to drain any urine away from your bladder, and a HIFU probe will be inserted into your rectum.

The ultrasound waves then travel through the rectum to the prostate to destroy cancerous cells. These waves also produce an image, so the surgeon can pinpoint exactly where to target.