Prostate Cancer – High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound (HIFU) Treatment
Steps Involved in IVF:
Procedure Description:
High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound (HIFU) is an advanced, non-invasive treatment for prostate cancer, leveraging targeted ultrasound waves to destroy cancerous tissues within the prostate gland. This procedure is gaining popularity due to its precision and the reduced risk of complications compared to traditional treatments like surgery or radiation. HIFU works by focusing sound waves at a precise point in the prostate, generating high temperatures that ablate or "burn" the cancer cells without affecting the surrounding healthy tissues.
The procedure is performed using a transrectal ultrasound probe, which is inserted into the rectum to deliver the ultrasound waves to the prostate. A key advantage of HIFU is that it does not require any incisions, making it a less invasive option. Patients typically receive general or spinal anesthesia to ensure comfort throughout the procedure.
HIFU is suitable for various stages of prostate cancer, particularly early-stage localized prostate cancer. It is also being explored for recurrent cancer in patients who have undergone radiation therapy. The treatment’s precision makes it ideal for patients who want to preserve important functions like urinary control and sexual potency, which are often affected by other prostate cancer treatments such as prostatectomy (surgical removal of the prostate).
Procedure Duration:
The duration of the HIFU procedure varies depending on the size and location of the tumor within the prostate gland. On average, the treatment takes between one to four hours. During the procedure, the patient will either be under general anesthesia or receive a spinal block to numb the lower half of the body, ensuring there is no discomfort.
The procedure involves the use of a transrectal ultrasound device that targets specific areas of the prostate. The surgeon monitors the progress in real-time via imaging, ensuring that the ultrasound waves are destroying the cancerous cells while leaving surrounding healthy tissue untouched. Due to the precision of the technology, HIFU minimizes the risk of damaging adjacent organs, such as the bladder and rectum.
Post-procedure, patients are typically required to stay in the hospital for a few hours to a day for monitoring. Recovery time after HIFU is relatively short compared to other prostate cancer treatments. Most patients can return to their normal activities within a few days to a week, although some may experience mild urinary symptoms or discomfort. Regular follow-up appointments are necessary to monitor recovery and ensure the effectiveness of the treatment. Long-term results may require additional imaging or biopsies to confirm that the cancerous cells have been successfully eradicated.
Benefits:
- Minimally invasive: No incisions are required, reducing the risk of infection and speeding up recovery time.
- Precision treatment: HIFU targets only cancerous cells, preserving healthy prostate tissue and nearby organs.
- Reduced side effects: Lower risk of incontinence and erectile dysfunction compared to surgery and radiation therapy.
- Short recovery time: Patients typically resume normal activities within a week, with minimal post-treatment discomfort.
- Re-treatment options: HIFU can be repeated if necessary or used after other therapies like radiation.
Potential Destinations:
- Germany
Germany is known for its cutting-edge medical technology and expertise in non-invasive cancer treatments, including HIFU. Medical centers in Germany offer world-class prostate cancer care, with specialists highly experienced in HIFU procedures. Patients benefit from advanced facilities and comprehensive pre- and post-operative care.
- United States
The U.S. is home to some of the most technologically advanced hospitals and cancer treatment centers globally. HIFU is increasingly available across several top-tier medical institutions, particularly in major cities with a focus on innovative cancer treatments and research.
- Japan
Japan has long been at the forefront of medical innovation, and its hospitals provide excellent care in prostate cancer treatment. HIFU is one of the many advanced treatment options available, with Japanese medical centers being recognized for their precision and patient-centric approaches.
- Turkey
Turkey has become a hub for medical tourism, offering high-quality healthcare at competitive costs. Medical centers in Istanbul and other major cities are equipped with state-of-the-art HIFU technology, making Turkey a popular destination for patients seeking affordable, yet effective, cancer treatments.
- South Korea
South Korea is known for its rapid adoption of new medical technologies. With highly qualified specialists and hospitals that focus on non-invasive cancer treatments, South Korea is an ideal destination for HIFU treatment. The country offers a blend of advanced healthcare and affordability, attracting international patients.
Risks & Considerations:
- Urinary issues: Some patients may experience temporary urinary retention or incontinence after the procedure, which usually resolves within a few weeks.
- Erectile dysfunction: Although the risk is lower than with surgery or radiation, some patients may experience changes in erectile function following HIFU treatment.
- Rectal fistula: In rare cases, a fistula (an abnormal connection between the rectum and the urethra) may form, requiring additional treatment or surgery.
- Infection risk: Although minimal due to the non-invasive nature of HIFU, any medical procedure carries a slight risk of infection.
- Cancer recurrence: While HIFU is effective for localized prostate cancer, there is a chance that cancer may return, requiring further treatment.
How to Choose the Right Doctor and Hospital:
When selecting a doctor and hospital for HIFU treatment, it is crucial to prioritize experience and expertise in prostate cancer care. Look for a facility that specializes in minimally invasive cancer treatments and has a dedicated team of urologists and oncologists. The physician's experience with HIFU, particularly the number of procedures performed, is a key factor in ensuring a successful outcome.
Additionally, consider the hospital's technological capabilities. Access to state-of-the-art HIFU devices and diagnostic tools can significantly impact the procedure's success. Patients should also seek facilities that provide comprehensive pre- and post-operative care, including detailed follow-ups and patient support during recovery.
To receive a free quote for this procedure please click on the link: https://www.medicaltourism.com/get-a-quote
Patients are advised to seek hospitals that are accredited by Global Healthcare and only work with medical tourism facilitators who are certified by Global Healthcare Accreditation or who have undergone certification from the Certified Medical Travel Professionals (CMTP). This ensures that the highest standards in the industry are met. GHA accredits the top hospitals in the world. These are the best hospitals in the world for quality and providing the best patient experience. Click the link to check out hospitals accredited by the Global Healthcare Accreditation: https://www.globalhealthcareaccreditation.com
Frequently Asked Questions
What actually happens during hyperstimulation of the ovaries?
The patient will take injectable FSH (follicle stimulating hormone) for eight to eleven days, depending on how long the follicles take to mature. This hormone is produced naturally in a woman’s body causing one egg to develop per cycle. Taking the injectable FSH causes several follicles to develop at once, at approximately the same rate. The development is monitored with vaginal ultrasounds and following the patient’s levels of estradiol and progesterone. FSH brand names include Repronex, Follistim, Menopur, Gonal-F and Bravelle. The patient injects herself daily.
What happens during egg retrieval?
When the follicles have developed enough to be harvested, the patient attends an appointment where she is anesthetized and prepared for the procedure. Next, the doctor uses an ultrasound probe to guide a needle through the vaginal wall and into the follicle of the ovary. The thin needle draws the follicle fluid, which is then examined by an embryologist to find the eggs. The whole process takes about 20 minutes.
What happens to the eggs?
In the next step, the harvested eggs are then fertilized. If the sperm from the potential father, or in some cases, anonymous donor, has normal functionality, the eggs and sperm are placed together in a dish with a nutrient fluid, then incubated overnight to fertilize normally. If the sperm functionality is suboptimal, an embryologist uses Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection to inject a single sperm into a single egg with an extremely precise glass needle. Once fertilization is complete, the embryos are assessed and prepared to be transferred to the patient’s uterus.
How are the embryos transferred back to the uterus?
The doctor and the patient will discuss the number of embryos to be transferred. The number of successfully fertilized eggs usually determines the number of eggs to be placed in the uterus. Embryos are transferred to the uterus with transabdominal ultrasound guidance. This process does not require anesthesia, but it can cause minor cervical or uterine discomfort. Following transfer, the patient is advised to take at least one days bed rest and two or three additional days of rest, then 10 to 12 days later, two pregnancy tests are scheduled to confirm success. Once two positive tests are completed, an obstetrical ultrasound is ordered to show the sac, fetal pole, yolk sac and fetal heart rate.
Embryoscope©
Built into this technology there is a microscope with a powerful camera that allows the uninterrupted monitoring of the embryo during its first hours of life. In this way, we can keep a close eye on the embryo, from the moment when the oocyte is inseminated and begins to divide into smaller and smaller cells, until it can be transferred to the uterus.
Orthopedics Stem Cell
Knee
Research on mesenchymal stem cells regenerative properties in knee osteoarthritis. In these studies, researchers suggest that Stem Cell Therapy has the potential to regenerate lost cartilage, stop and reverse cartilage degeneration, provide pain relief, and improve patient mobility.
Shoulder
Stem Cell Therapy as an Alternative to Rotator Cuff & Shoulder Replacement Surgery. Stem cell therapy may offer an excellent alternative for patients looking to avoid shoulder joint replacement surgery, as well as many other surgical treatments for shoulder pain.
Ankle
If you suffer from chronic or acute ankle pain or instability due to arthritis, cartilage loss, ligament strain or tear, or tendon damage, then you may benefit from non-surgical stem cell treatments or stem cell-enhanced surgery.
Back Pain
Patients now have a minimally invasive option. Stem cell therapy for back pain and disc herniations can potentially repair the damaged disc or facet joint, restore function, rehydrate the disc, and ultimately alleviate chronic pain.
Anti-Aging Stem Cell
Hair Loss
Stem cell therapy and PRP therapy have been shown to be most effective for: Those in the early stages of hair loss, patients who are not viable candidates for surgery and women who prefer to avoid hair surgery.
Facial Anti-Aging
Aesthetic Anti-Aging. The Aesthetic Stem Cell Localized Treatment is a non-surgical minimally invasive procedure to enhance the appearance of aging skin and hair restoration. This all-natural technique combines dermal injections of bone marrow or adipose tissue derived stem cells and growth factors.
Fertility Stem Cell
Endometrial PRP
The stem cells used for treatment of a thin endometrium include mesenchymal stem cells. In addition, successful repair of the endometrium in pregnancy with stem cells has been reported previously.
Low Ovarian Reserve (PRP)
The treatment uses PRP (Platelet-Rich-Plasma), which with stem cell therapy is the novel therapeutic approach for restoring the quality of the ovarian reserve.Your PRP will contain a physiologic balance of platelets, growth factors and white blood cells tailored specifically for you.
Punta Mita Hospital
Mexico
Punta Mita Hospital - Genesis Cell
Mexico
