High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound (HIFU)

HIFU uses concentrated ultrasound waves to treat solid, malignant (cancerous) and benign (noncancerous) tumours that haven’t spread. It can also be used to treat noncancerous conditions, like uterine fibroids, essential tremor, Parkinson’s disease, metastatic bone growth pain and thyroid nodules. At Cleveland Clinic London, we offer the latest HIFU technology, specifically designed to treat localised prostate cancer.

The machine images your prostate using a high-definition transrectal ultrasound. These images are integrated with your biopsy, MRI and PET scans to accurately identify and target the cancer. It generates high-intensity focused shock waves to target the tumour, causing the temperature of the tissue to rise. The heat destroys (ablates) the targeted tissue and causes the cancer cells to die. It does this without harming the healthy tissue around it.

Think about it this way: when sunlight passes through a magnifying glass and focuses on one spot, that spot becomes hot. Focused ultrasound works the same way within your body.

Before your HIFU procedure, you’ll typically have had an MRI and biopsy of your prostate. Along with the ultrasound generated by the equipment, your consultant can pinpoint the exact location of the tissue they want to target.

The procedure itself is relatively simple. Here’s what to expect:

• Depending on your specific condition, you may receive general anaesthesia or regional anaesthesia.
• A special ultrasound probe is used to target the area and plan treatment. In most cases, the probe will be above or on your skin. For prostate cancer, the probe will be gently inserted into your rectum.
• With our advanced technology, your consultant will be able to see 3D images of the targeted area on a monitor. This allows them to know exactly where to target the high-frequency ultrasound waves.
• The focused sound waves are then sent directly to the targeted area, where they heat the tissue and destroy it. If necessary, your consultant can adjust the intensity of the ultrasound waves.
• Your consultant will be able to dynamically watch the delivery of the sound waves on the monitor to ensure accuracy and prevent damage to the healthy tissue around the tumour.

Typically, HIFU is a day-case procedure, which means you can go home the same day as treatment. Recovery time is short, and you can most likely return to your normal routine within a few days. This treatment option also tends to have fewer side effects than chemotherapy, radiation therapy or surgery.

Paying for Private HIFU at Cleveland Clinic London

We offer two options when it comes to paying for your care. You may choose to self-pay or use private medical insurance. It’s important to check with your insurance company and make sure that the HIFU procedure is covered. If you have any questions regarding your financial obligation or navigating the payment process, please contact us. We’re happy to connect you with a payment specialist.

What’s Next?

High-intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU) is a leading, innovative treatment technique. This minimally invasive procedure can be particularly impactful when it comes to treating some types of cancers — especially early-stage prostate tumours that haven’t spread. HIFU offers hope for great outcomes, including a faster recovery and fewer side effects. Our expert consultants are here to discuss this option with you, see if it’s an appropriate match for your case and help guide you through this exciting new treatment option.