Receiving a cancer diagnosis is unbelievably devastating. Unfortunately, over 250,000 men in America are projected to receive a prostate cancer diagnosis in 2023. Prostate cancer is currently the most common cancer diagnosis in men other than skin cancer, with approximately 1 in 8 men receiving a prostate cancer diagnosis each year.
While no man wishes to experience the detrimental effects of prostate cancer, the good news is some of the side effects of traditional treatments can now be avoided. Thankfully, a new procedure, the Transurethral Ultrasound Ablation (TULSA-PRO) is offering an alternative to men and their medical providers.
What is the TULSA-PRO PROCEDURE?
The TULSA-PRO procedure is an innovative prostate cancer treatment that requires no incision. Cancer treatment using TULSA-PRO is guided by MRI analysis, thus bypassing many of the negative side effects that come with traditional prostate cancer treatment.
For example, many patients undergoing TULSA-PRO treatment are able to remove cancer without experiencing incontinence or Erectile Dysfunction.
Prostate Cancer Patient Benefits Using TULSA-PRO Procedure
The TULSA-PRO procedure is intended to destroy targeted prostate tissue, while allowing men to retain sexual function and the ability to control urine.
Some of the TULSA-PRO Procedure treatment benefits are:
- Incision free procedure
- Radiation free
- Minimal side effects
- Reduced risk of incontinence
- Reduced risk of erectile dysfunction
- Faster recovery
- FDA approved
How Does the TULSA- PRO Procedure Work?
When faced with the challenging decision of choosing the right prostate cancer treatment option, the information available can be overwhelming. It’s helpful for potential recipients of this new innovative treatment solution to understand the procedure. Resources are available for patients to review. However, discussing the procedure with their surgeon is an important step as it may be customized depending on the patient’s needs and desired outcomes.
The overall steps involved in TULSA-PRO procedures consist of:
- Preparation
- Planning
- Delivery
- Confirmation
First, the patient will meet with the treatment team and prepare for the procedure. When receiving treatment using the TULSA-PRO, a High Intensity Focused Ultrasound (HIFU) emits a strong beam of energy directly into the prostate. When this happens, the HIFU targets and eliminates prostate cancer cells within the body. The HIFU device is carefully inserted into the urethra and MRI technology is used to locate and destroy the cancer cells with HIFU.
The treatment occurs while the patient is inside the MRI unit. Advanced imaging technology allows for the most accurate and customized application of the HIFU within the patient. The MRI offers increased visibility, assisting surgeons in locating cancer visible from the axial, side view and coronal view. Surgeons are then able to direct the HIFU emission to ensure the cancer cells are destroyed.
The TULSA-PRO procedure is an exciting and promising new treatment option. With the threat of traditional treatment outcomes, many men avoid getting their prostate checked regularly or decide to live with the cancer to avoid surgical risks and side effects linked to traditional treatment options. With reduced side effects and a relatively low risk of everyday functional decline, the TULSA-PRO procedure may be a good option for patients. Ideal candidates consist of men with low and intermediate risk, organ-confined prostate cancer.
Integrative Urology Provides TULSA-PRO Procedures in Phoenix
Dr. Y. Mark Hong is a world-renowned leader in innovative urology solutions. With tremendous patient care and compassion, Dr. Hong provides high-tech solutions that prevent patients from experiencing unnecessary negative side effects.
Dr. Hong provides not only the TULSA-PRO procedure, but many more cutting-edge urology care services. Contact Integrative Urology today to schedule a first-time visit.
