How is HIFU For Prostate Cancer Performed

Patients are assessed prior to HIFU with a transrectal ultrasound to measure prostate volume, and to check for calcification within the prostate.

• Patients are admitted on the day of the HIFU treatment.
• The bowel is cleared with Picolax oral prep, taken at home in the 24 hours prior to admission.
• HIFU is performed under general anaesthesia, with the patient positioned in lithotomy (on the back with the legs supported)
• Videocystoscopy is performed to examine the lower urinary tract and prostate. If the prostate is enlarged, a limited TURP (prostate resection) is done immediately prior to HIFU treatment.
• The robotic Sonablate 500 HIFU probe is inserted into the rectum and ultrasound images of the prostate, seminal vesicles, bladder, rectum and urethra are used to target the HIFU treatment onto the prostate gland.
• Robotic HIFU treatment is then commenced and prostate tissue is ablated in 3 stages. The procedure can take 3 hours to complete depending on prostate volume/size.
• During the treatment, the rectum is cooled down to prevent overheating and rectal fistula formation.
• At the completion of robotic HIFU treatment a urethral catheter is inserted to drain urine and any small tissue particles from the ablated prostate.
• Most patients stay overnight, however some prefer a day stay procedure.
• The urinary catheter is removed 3-4 days later in the Urology suite.