Focal Therapy · NYC
HIFU Focal Therapy for Prostate Cancer
HIFU (high-intensity focused ultrasound) is a non-surgical focal therapy that destroys only the cancerous portion of the prostate using a focused beam of ultrasound heat — delivered through a transrectal probe under MRI/ultrasound fusion guidance, with no incisions and no radiation.
Because the rest of the prostate — along with the surrounding nerves, bladder neck, and rectum — is left intact, HIFU typically preserves urinary, sexual, and bowel function. Dr. Tan performs HIFU using the Focal One machine as an outpatient procedure in Manhattan.
HIFU · Focal One Machine
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“For the right patient, focal therapy can treat the cancer precisely while protecting the structures that matter most.”— Dr. Wei Phin Tan, MD, MHS, FACS
Who Is a Candidate?
- Low to intermediate-risk prostate cancer
- One MRI-visible lesion in a defined region of the prostate
- Cancer biology that fits a targeted approach (confirmed by MRI and biopsy mapping)
- Men prioritizing urinary and sexual function preservation
Key Benefits
- Outpatient, same-day — home the day of the procedure
- Organ-sparing — the prostate is preserved, not removed
- Low incontinence and ED rates relative to whole-gland treatments
- Repeatable — surgery and radiation remain viable if needed
HIFU vs. Surgery vs. Radiation
| HIFU Focal | Robotic Surgery | Radiation | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Outpatient | Yes | Same-day typical | Multiple visits |
| Prostate preserved | Yes | No | Yes |
| Low incontinence risk | Yes | Variable | Yes |
| Repeatable | Yes | No | Limited |
| Same-day discharge | Yes | Often | N/A |
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does HIFU focal therapy take?
Most procedures take 60–90 minutes. HIFU is typically performed as outpatient with same-day discharge.
What is recovery like?
Most men return to light activity within a few days. A urinary catheter is typically in place for 3–7 days. Compared with radical treatments, HIFU has notably lower rates of incontinence and erectile dysfunction.
Is HIFU covered by insurance?
HIFU is FDA-cleared and covered by most major insurers including Medicare for appropriate candidates. Coverage varies by plan — the practice will verify benefits before scheduling.
What is the success rate?
Published 5-year oncologic success rates for appropriately selected patients range from approximately 75% to 91%, depending on risk group and the use of repeat treatments. Because the prostate is preserved, salvage options remain available.
Can I have HIFU after radiation?
Salvage focal therapy after radiation is possible in carefully selected patients with biopsy-proven local recurrence. Dr. Tan also offers salvage cryoablation, which is often preferred in radio-recurrent disease.