High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound (HIFU)

Houston Methodist’s urologists are experts in high-intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU), one of the most advanced prostate cancer treatments available in the U.S. This minimally invasive treatment uses focused ultrasonic waves to generate heat, effectively targeting and destroying cancerous cells in the prostate. 

Unlike other prostate treatment options, HIFU offers precise ablation with minimal disruption to surrounding healthy tissue, which speeds recovery and reduces side effects.

Our Approach to HIFU

Urologists at our Texas Medical Center and West Houston locations are some of only a few Houston-area specialists trained in HIFU treatment for prostate cancer, making Houston Methodist one of the first and only hospitals to offer the procedure in the city. 

For optimal accuracy, our doctors can couple MRI with ultrasound imaging to further visualize the prostate and localize the treatment areas. With this real-time, enhanced imaging during the HIFU procedure, your doctor can avoid important structures like the neurovascular bundle, which affects erectile function, and the sphincter, which controls bladder function. 

At Houston Methodist, we believe treating your prostate cancer shouldn’t mean you have to risk your quality of life.

What Happens During the HIFU Procedure?

The principle behind HIFU is simple: Cancer cells can be destroyed by heat.

While you are under general anesthesia, a small ultrasound probe is gently inserted into the rectum, giving your doctor a live view of the prostate on a monitor. The ultrasound images allow your doctor to visualize the cancer and map a treatment plan in real-time. 

With this guidance, your doctor uses that same ultrasound probe to deliver focused bursts of heat to targeted areas of the prostate, raising the temperature to around 185°F for just a few seconds and effectively destroying cancerous tissue. He or she will then move to the next area until all cancerous tissue has been treated.

The treatment takes approximately 1-2 hours, and you will go home the same day. Typically, patients can resume most regular activities the following day. While you will need a catheter for approximately one week, there is little to no pain or lasting side effects.

What Are the Side Effects of HIFU?

The side effects of HIFU are minimal to non-existent, especially compared to other prostate cancer treatments like surgery or radiation, which have higher chances of affecting bladder control and erectile function. However, because of HIFU’s precision, the risk of these complications is greatly reduced. 

HIFU is a usually a painless procedure. After the procedure, some men may experience:

• Minor temporary swelling
• A slow stream or frequent urination for 2-3 months

Who Is a Good Candidate for HIFU?

Approximately 50% of men diagnosed with prostate cancer are suitable candidates for HIFU. It is an excellent option for:

• Patients with localized cancer
• Patients who have tried radiation therapy and cancer has recurred

The Future of HIFU

At present, HIFU is primarily used to treat prostate cancer. However, ongoing research is exploring its potential to treat other conditions, including cancers of the liver and uterus. As research advances, Houston Methodist hopes to expand the use of this innovative treatment to help even more patients in the future.

Who Is Not a Good Candidate for HIFU?

HIFU may not be the best option for all patients, including:

• Patients diagnosed with aggressive forms of prostate cancer
• Patients with significantly enlarged prostate glands
• Patients with significant colon disease, such as Crohn’s disease

If you have been diagnosed with any of the above, you may require more comprehensive treatment options and should discuss them with your cancer doctor.