BOSTON, MA - June 21, 2016 Greater Boston Urology announced today that two of its doctors were the first in Massachusetts to perform a new, non-invasive treatment for prostate cancer known as High Intensity Focused Ultrasound or HIFU.
Approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) last October, HIFU uses ultrasound waves to destroy cancerous tissues found in the prostate gland. The ultrasound waves are delivered via a probe inserted into the rectum. The procedure lasts one to three hours and can be performed under general or spinal anesthesia. The procedure requires only a short hospital stay, has a low complication rate, and doesn't involve radiation.
In the past, HIFU has been used to treat other types of cancer, such as breast and kidney, but is now an option available to eligible prostate cancer patients. Eligibility depends on certain factors: the cancer must be low-grade and contained, meaning it hasn't spread outside the prostate gland.
Greater Boston Urology's own Dr. Clifford D. Gluck and Dr. James C. Lin performed the first Ablatherm HIFU surgery in Massachusetts on June 15, 2016. Dr. Gluck says, "HIFU offers eligible patients another effective way to treat early, low-grade prostate cancer. The treatment destroys cancerous tissue with minimal effect to the surrounding organs, and it doesn't use radiation, which is a big plus for patients."
Prostate cancer is the most common cancer in men. There are more cases of prostate cancer every year than lung and colon cancer. The risk of prostate cancer increases with age. Prostate cancer is diagnosed in about 1 of every 7 men during their lifetime, but only 1 in 38 will die of the disease.
About Greater Boston Urology Greater Boston Urology offers comprehensive care throughout New England by providing its patients with highest quality treatment and services nationwide, using the most advanced technologies available. Upholding its commitment to excellence and innovation, GBU opened a state-of the-art laboratory in 2012, featuring both anatomic and molecular testing. The practice has seven offices in the communities of Falmouth, Framingham, Norwood, Hingham, Milton, North Easton, and Plymouth. Visit www.GreaterBostonUrology.com to learn more.
