HIFU treatments

Hi Carlos,

I am a somewhat surprised that HIFU is being reported as being a new treatment by some, though like other treatments has been refined. It has not been extensively performed in the UK, largely because of the stance of NICE who for a long time wanted it to be confined to trials as an experimental treatment as far as the NHS was concerned though a relatively small number of patients have been treated privately at the small number of centres here. Another reason why it may not have become so popular could be the attitude of some oncologists. I can give an example of this. When I researched this in 2007 I discussed this and other treatments with my oncologist at The Royal Marsden. I quote from this consultant's letter to my GP copied to me dated 27th November 2007 :- "We had extensive discussions about these today. I gave him my view that HIFU is from the data that I am aware of a less successful and more toxic treatment than standard radiotherapy treatment" He told me that he thought of HIFU as a salvage treatment but would refer me to Mr X at the UCH Hospital in London for an opinion on it as a primary treatment if I wished. However, in view of my consultant's opinion I decided not to pursue it.

HIFU had been available in some countries some 10 years before this but is still regarded as experimental due to lack of long term assessment. http://www.urologyteam.com/hifu-details
This treatment may produce good results in patients that are suitable and it has the advantage that in need it can be repeated.

Edited by member 02 Oct 2014 at 00:41  | Reason: Not specified

As Barry says, it has been around for many years now, and was the treatment I would have preferred, but I was to far advanced for them to try it as they are only trailing this on low gleason, PSA scores, but hope to expand on this at a later date. Unfortunately some hospitals don't mention this as an option, because they don't have the facilities, which is a shame because people like yourself who may have benefited aren't given the choice unless you do the research prior to your decision, but most people trust what they are told by their local hospital as to treatments available for them. Hifu is also now being trailed for bone mets as a curative treatment but is limited by the amount of mets present.

Roy