High Intensity Focused Ultrasound HIFU - Cancer Treatment

High Intensity Focused Ultrasound HIFU

HIFU Overview

High Intensity Focused Ultrasound or HIFU is a highly precise medical procedure used to treat various types of cancer. The procedure applies high-intensity focused ultrasound energy which will heat and destroy damaged or diseased tissue through ablation. This is a minimally invasive procedure, which directs acoustic energy into the body.

Who benefits from a HIFU?

HIFU is used for patients who have a single tumor or to treat only part of a large tumor. Unfortunately this procedure cannot treat widespread tumors and cannot treat any type of cancer.

HIFU can treat the following types of cancer:

• Prostate cancer
• Bladder cancer
• Kidney cancer
• Pancreatic cancer
• Primary and secondary liver cancer
• Uterine fibroids
• Breast cancer

Benefits of HIFU

• Very few side effects
• Non-invasive method
• Does not affect the area surrounding the tumor
• No pain, no anesthesia required
• Few side effects
• Radiation free
• No blood loss
• Non surgical
• Outpatient procedure

How does HIFU work?

The HIFU procedure uses ultrasound beams which are focused on the diseased tissue. The energy deposition can rise temperature levels within the tissue from 65° to 85°C and it destroys the diseases tissue by coagulation necrosis.

During the procedure the applicator of a robotic arm will be moved to juxtapose multiple shots, according to a protocol designed for each patient's needs. Due to its precise ablation of the diseased tissue, the procedure is also called HIFU surgery. The treatment can also be combined with chemotherapy and radiotherapy.

How much does HIFU cost?

Prices for this procedure vary depending on the country, clinic and doctor, but also on the number of sessions needed, depending on each patient. Prices for the entire treatment can get as high as $25,000 in Canada, but only $10,000 in Philippines, $9,800 in India and $2,000 per session in Thailand.

Who performs HIFU?

HIFU is performed by a surgeon who is board-certified in medical oncology or surgery. The surgeon will explain what will happen before, during and after the procedure and will make you understand the entire process. After the surgeon informs you about the risks, benefits or alternatives to this procedure, you will be asked to sign a consent form.

For more information about High Intensity Focused Ultrasound click the button below.