Treatment with high-intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU) is considered non-invasive because it doesn't require any incisions. This makes recovery for patients usually faster than it is for other surgical options. If you are considering Sonablate HIFU for prostate treatment, understanding the procedure can help ease any concerns and prepare you and your family for what to expect. In this blog post, we will walk you through the Sonablate HIFU procedure step-by-step.
Before the Procedure:
You will have a consultation with your urologist to discuss your medical history and treatment goals. You may be required to undergo a series of tests to ensure that Sonablate HIFU is appropriate for your condition.
During the Procedure:
Anesthesia: Patients will be under general anesthesia or spinal anesthesia with conscious sedation when being treated with Sonablate HIFU.
Treatment: During the procedure, your physician may use both pre-operative MR images as well as diagnostic ultrasound to map your prostate and to identify the area or areas requiring treatment. High-intensity ultrasound waves are then precisely focused on the targeted area of the prostate. These waves heat and destroy the diseased tissue while sparring healthy tissue.
Duration: Typically, the operating time is one and a half to two hours, depending on the amount of targeted tissue being ablated during the procedure.
After the Procedure:
Most patients have a urinary catheter for 3-7 days. You’ll receive information about the catheter from your physician. Also, you’ll need to undergo further testing to ensure the treatment was successful. Your physician will closely monitor your progress and give you more follow-up care instructions.
Understanding Sonablate HIFU can help you feel more prepared and confident about your treatment. If you have any questions or need more information, our team is here to help you.
For more detailed information on Sonablate HIFU, contact us.
*This post is for informational and educational purposes only. This post should not be taken as medical advice or used as a substitute for such. You should always speak to your own doctor before implementing this information on your own.