Sonablate HIFU: A Modern Alternative Prostate Treatment with Faster Recovery
Cases of men with prostate disorders are on the rise. This has increased the need for effective treatment methods with faster recovery periods. Sonablate High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound (HIFU) therapy can serve as an alternative prostate treatment without open surgery, using high-intensity ultrasound waves to destroy problematic prostate tissue precisely, without incisions, sutures or scarring.
“Many men not only want to address their prostate condition, but also want to maintain a good quality of life after undergoing treatment,” said Dr L. Sivaneswaran, Consultant Urologist at Sunway Medical Centre Ipoh, on Tuesday (8/9).
Sonablate High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound (HIFU) is an incision-free, minimally invasive therapy technology for treating certain prostate conditions.
“Sonablate HIFU allows us to treat prostate tissue with great precision without surgery. For patients who meet the criteria, this technology offers minimal pain, faster recovery, a lower risk of complications, and enables patients to return to their activities sooner,” he said.
Unlike conventional prostate surgery, this non-surgical therapy with faster recovery uses precisely focused ultrasound energy to destroy abnormal tissue without damaging the surrounding healthy tissue.
With the aid of real-time ultrasound imaging, doctors can monitor and accurately target the area to be treated. As a day-care procedure, patients can generally resume light activities within one to two days.
In addition, the procedure also has the potential to reduce the risk of bleeding, infection and prolonged hospitalisation, as well as lowering the risk of urinary incontinence and erectile dysfunction in patients who meet the criteria.
He explained that the choice of HIFU therapy is tailored to the patient’s condition. Despite its various advantages, Sonablate HIFU is not intended for all prostate patients. Suitability for the procedure is determined through a comprehensive evaluation by a urology specialist based on the patient’s medical condition, examination results and individual needs.
“Choosing the right therapy always begins with selecting the right patient. Every treatment recommendation we make is tailored to the diagnosis, health condition and expectations of the patient,” Sivaneswaran explained.
Supported by a multidisciplinary team and International Patient Centre services, the hospital provides comprehensive assistance for international patients, ranging from consultations, care coordination and language support to post-treatment follow-up.