High-intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU)

What it is

High-intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU) is a non-invasive treatment that uses high-frequency sound waves to heat and destroy cancer cells. It is used to treat various types of cancer, including prostate cancer, uterine fibroids, and breast fibroadenomas.

What research shows

Studies suggest that HIFU is effective in treating localized prostate cancer, with some studies reporting high rates of local control and low rates of recurrence. However, more research is needed to determine the long-term efficacy and safety of HIFU in different patient populations. Some studies have also investigated the use of HIFU in combination with other treatments, such as radiation therapy and immunotherapy.

Current status

HIFU is a treatment option for localized prostate cancer and other types of cancer, but its use is still limited and more research is needed to determine its long-term efficacy and safety. It may be best suited for patients who are not good candidates for surgery or radiation therapy.

Key studies

• PMID 42140100

  This study assessed whether the time to PSA nadir is associated with early oncologic failure after primary cryotherapy or high-intensity focused ultrasound for localized prostate cancer.

  PubMed ↗
• PMID 42136322

  This study investigated the changes in coagulation function after high-intensity focused ultrasound therapy for uterine fibroids and adenomyosis.

  PubMed ↗
• PMID 42097921

  This study evaluated cancer control, side effects, and complication rates in the first 110 men who underwent high-intensity focused ultrasound for localized prostate cancer.

  PubMed ↗
• PMID 42022858

  This study aimed to establish a prediction model for symptom recurrence following focused ultrasound ablation surgery in adenomyosis based on magnetic resonance imaging and serum cancer antigen 125 levels.

  PubMed ↗
• PMID 42020933

  This study evaluated the preliminary safety, efficacy, and feasibility of focused ultrasound ablation surgery sequential with immune checkpoint inhibitors in patients with driver-gene wild-type non-small cell lung cancer and liver metastases.

  PubMed ↗
• PMID 41926560

  This study conducted a retrospective multicenter cohort study of 209 men with histologically confirmed prostate cancer to investigate predictors of recurrence after focal therapy.

  PubMed ↗
• PMID 41908235

  This review article discussed current modalities, outcomes, and future directions of focal therapy for prostate cancer.

  PubMed ↗
• PMID 41898360

  This study predicted 1-year trifecta outcomes after high-intensity focused ultrasound and cryoablation for low- and intermediate-risk prostate cancer.

  PubMed ↗