High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound (HIFU)
Overview of High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound
High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound (HIFU) is a noninvasive, cutting-edge therapy that uses precisely focused ultrasound waves to destroy cancerous tissue without the need for surgery. As a form of focal therapy, HIFU offers patients an innovative and highly targeted option for treating certain cancers, most notably prostate cancer, with fewer complications and a quicker recovery time. Loyola Medicine is proud to provide this advanced treatment, delivering effective cancer care with precision and reduced side effects.
Benefits of Focal Therapy for Prostate Cancer
- Minimally invasive: No incisions, reducing infection risks and recovery time
- Precision targeting: Focuses on tumors while sparing healthy tissue
- Reduced side effects: Less damage to surrounding organs and structures
- Quick recovery: Many patients resume daily activities shortly after treatment
- No radiation exposure: Uses ultrasound waves rather than radiation
Who is a Candidate for HIFU?
HIFU is a highly targeted treatment option designed for patients with solid tumors, particularly in organs where preserving surrounding tissue is crucial. It's especially helpful for treating localized or recurrent prostate cancer when avoiding surgery or radiation is preferred.
Not all patients are candidates for HIFU, and eligibility depends on several factors, including tumor size, location, and overall health status. The ideal candidates are typically those whose prostate cancer is confined to a specific area without widespread metastasis.
HIFU is often recommended for patients who:
- Prefer a noninvasive treatment option with fewer complications than surgery.
- Are not candidates for surgery due to underlying health conditions or age-related risks.
- Want to minimize side effects and preserve organ function as much as possible.
- Have recurrent tumors after prior radiation or other treatments and need an alternative therapy.
- Are seeking a focal therapy approach that specifically targets cancerous tissue while sparing surrounding structures.
If you are considering HIFU, a consultation with our team at Loyola Medicine will help determine if this therapy is right for you. Our specialists will review your medical history, conduct imaging studies, and discuss personalized treatment options tailored to your needs.
What to Expect with HIFU Treatment
Why Choose Loyola Medicine for Prostate Cancer Treatment?
Loyola Medicine offers advanced HIFU treatment with a team of specialists dedicated to precise, patient-centered care. Our multidisciplinary approach combines expertise in oncology, radiology, and urology to ensure effective, personalized treatment. With cutting-edge technology, we target tumors with accuracy while minimizing damage to healthy tissue, leading to fewer complications and quicker recovery.
As an academic medical center, Loyola provides comprehensive support, from initial evaluation to follow-up care, all within a research-driven environment. Patients benefit from expert guidance, state-of-the-art imaging, and a seamless experience focused on improving outcomes and quality of life.
View Webinar Recording on HIFU
During this webinar recording, Loyola Medicine Urologic Oncologist Gopal Gupta, MD, FACS, discusses a new treatment option for prostate cancer called robotic High Intensity Focused Ultrasound (HIFU), a groundbreaking form of focal therapy that precisely targets prostate tissue without the common side effects of surgery or radiation. Dr. Gupta describes how focal therapy works, the advantages of HIFU treatment, who's a good candidate and what happens after treatment.
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Prostate Cancer Resources

High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound Targets Prostate Cancer
Discover how high-intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU) targets prostate cancer. Focal therapy (HIFU procedure), is a new treatment for prostate cancer.

Everything to Know about Prostate Cancer
Loyola Medicine urologist, Dr. Gopal Gupta, explains the causes of prostate cancer, prevention, diagnosis, and treatment options.

5 Facts about Prostate Cancer that May Surprise You
Discover 5 facts about prostate cancer all men need to know. Learn about the risks, symptoms and treatment options for prostate cancer.