The evolving potential of targeted focal therapy
April 24th, 2009 Posted in hifu, prostate cryotherapyA recent study at University of Colorado has summarized available data on the potential roles of targeted focal therapy (TFT) using cryotherapy or high intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU) as an alternate treatment for low-risk prostate cancers.
TFT uses 3D mapping biopsies to guide treatment so that key lesions are ablated while surrounding prostate tissue is spared. Hou and colleagues state that improvements in cryotherapy and HIFU have increased efficacy and decreased complications. Researchers reported that prostate cancer control following TFT should now be considered as promising. They further state that TFT provides an alternative to active surveillance and more aggressive treatments for patients with low-risk tumors.