HIFU treatment (high-intensity focused ultrasound) for prostate cancer

HIFU is used as a treatment for prostate cancer. Symptoms that could indicate prostate cancer include:

• Difficulty urinating, or a weak or interrupted flow
• Frequent urge to urinate, especially at night
• Blood in your urine or semen
• Pain or discomfort in your pelvic area, back or hips
• Erectile dysfunction

If you're experiencing symptoms of prostate cancer, it's important to speak to a doctor right away. If you are then or have already been diagnosed with the condition, HIFU treatment may be an appropriate option for you. A specialist consultant can evaluate your individual case and recommend the best treatment plan for your needs.

Can HIFU be used for other conditions too?

HIFU has been found to be most effective for treating prostate cancer, but it is also used for other types of cancer, such as breast, liver, pancreatic, and kidney cancer.

We also use the treatment for benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), which is a condition that's common in older men. It causes an enlarged prostate which can lead to symptoms including difficulty urinating, painful urination and erectile dysfunction. HIFU treatment can help reduce the prostate gland's size and ease the associated symptoms.

This page focuses on HIFU for prostate cancer, however if you would like to know about HIFU for a different condition, book an appointment with one of our specialists, or call us to get tailored advice.

If you're experiencing prostate cancer, you might be a candidate for HIFU treatment. Because it is a non-invasive procedure that doesn't require an overnight stay in hospital, it can be a very appealing option when appropriate.

To know whether this is the right choice for you, it's essential to consult with a specialist who can assess your individual needs and circumstances. Book a consultation with a specialist at Circle Health Group to learn more about whether HIFU treatment is right for you.

When you come in for your initial consultation for HIFU treatment, our specialist consultant will go through a series of questions and tests to make a diagnosis of your condition. You may need further tests or scans to help inform our recommended course of action. They will want to know everything they can about your symptoms and existing diagnosis, as well as any treatments you've had so far and how effective these were.

The first consultation is extremely important, as it helps us understand your unique situation and come up with a personalised treatment plan that works best for you. Our consultant will explain everything you need to know about HIFU treatment and answer any questions or concerns you may have.

We take a comprehensive approach to deciding on the best treatment for you. This involves assessing the extent and location of your condition, as well as considering your general health and any other medical conditions you may have. Rest assured that you will be in good hands and receive the highest quality of care at Circle Health Group.

During HIFU treatment, your consultant will use an ultrasound probe to deliver high-frequency soundwaves to the affected area of your prostate. The soundwaves create heat and destroy the targeted tissue. The length of the procedure can vary depending on the area being treated, but it usually takes a few hours.

Before your operation, you'll usually be given a general anaesthetic to ensure you're comfortable during the procedure.

During the procedure, your consultant will use an ultrasound probe to direct high-frequency sound waves to the affected area. The heat created by the sound waves will destroy the targeted tissue. Your consultant will monitor the procedure closely to ensure that only the affected tissue is destroyed.

Is HIFU treatment painful?

HIFU treatment is generally well-tolerated and not considered to be painful. You may experience some mild discomfort or a tingling sensation during the treatment, but this should not be severe. If you are concerned about discomfort, your consultant can discuss options for pain relief during the procedure.

Is there anything you should know about recovery?

Recovery times can vary, but you should expect to rest for a few days following the procedure. You may experience some discomfort, but pain medication can help manage this. Your consultant will provide specific guidance on how to care for yourself during the recovery period.

As with any medical procedure, there are some risks associated with HIFU treatment. These can include:

• Nausea or vomiting after treatment
• Urinary incontinence or other bladder-related issues
• Erectile dysfunction
• Skin burns or other damage
• Nerve damage

It's important to note that the likelihood of experiencing these complications is relatively low, and the vast majority of patients do not experience any complications at all.

When you choose to go private with Circle Health Group, you can expect:

• Flexible appointment times and locations to fit your routine
• The freedom to choose which hospital and consultant suit your needs
• Personalised, consultant-led treatment plans tailored to your individual needs
• Comfortable and safe private facilities maintained by expert multidisciplinary teams
• Private ensuite rooms as standard and delicious healthy meals
• Affordable, fixed-price packages with aftercare included
• Flexible payment options to help you spread the cost of your care

If you would like to learn more about HIFU treatment, book your appointment online today or call a member of our team directly.

Content reviewed by Circle in-house team in March 2023. Next review due March 2026.

1. High intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU) for prostate cancer, Cancer Research UK
2. High-intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU), Prostate Cancer UK
3. High-intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU) treatment, Macmillan Cancer Support
4. Prostate cancer treatment – HIFU, Prostate Matters
5. High-intensity focused ultrasound for the treatment of prostate cancer, Mayo Clinic
6. High-intensity focused ultrasound to treat prostate cancer, NHS Guy’s and St Thomas’
7. High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound (HIFU), Cleveland Clinic