The Sonblate 500 is a minimal invasive treatment technique using a transrectal probe to ensure focus of ultrasound waves on the prostate, to a targeted and precise location. It raises the temperature, causes the tissue to break down, treating the entire prostate. HIFU using the Sonablate 500 takes at most four hours and is considered an out-patient procedure. There are numerous benefits associated with this treatment method, which makes it one of the most utilized HIFU methods currently available.
There is no surgery required with then Sonablate 500 is used. It is currently the only HIFU treatment device that can treat a maximum of 50 CC prostate without the use of an invasive procedure. Because of the design of the Sonablate 500's probe as well as the transducer's focal lengths, it offers a therapy zone of 120 degrees. This provides the physician with immediate access to the whole prostate gland with no need to reposition or move the probe. This makes it an out-patient procedure without the need for overnight hospital stay.
Superior imaging is offered by the Sonablate 500. This machine offers reference and real-time images that enable the physician to receive immediate feedback that can be used for maximum precision. The images provided to the physician allow them to plan a custom HIFU treatment. Through the use of three-dimensional imaging, it is possible to accurately plan treatment for the targeted areas.
Possibly one of the biggest worries with any of these types of treatments is the possibility of causing impotency. However, the Sonblate 500's integrated software and hardware identifies blood flow throughout the neurovascular bundles. Physicians can locate all neurovascular bundles that are associated with potency, avoiding damage to these nerves. Men who have been treated with the Sonblate 500 have fewer problems associated with erectile dysfunction.
Physicians are able to adjust the power throughout the duration of HIFU treatment in areas such as nerve bundles and in close proximity to the rectum. This power adjustment feature provides additional safety and the customization of the HIFU treatment. Other machines do not offer power adjustment capabilities, meaning that all patients are treated with the exact same power level, which is not an ideal situation. Furthermore, the physician has more control over the placement and position of the probe. They are able to adjust it to ensure optimal outcomes as well as comfort. Other probes offer only limited control because they remain fixed to the treatment table. The Sonablate 500 offers a full hands-on approach to the procedure.
Lastly, the Sonablate 500 for HIFU for prostate cancer treatment is quite possibly the most accurate treatment currently available. It can treat the entire prostate area in a number of different overlapping zones. Only small lesions are produced that are very precise. The legions made by the Sonablate 500 are smaller than any other treatment of this variety.
Richard R. Lotenfoe, MD, is a Fellow of the American College of Surgeons and Board Certified Urological Surgeon in Orlando, Florida. He specializes in the treatment of prostate cancer using the HIFU procedure.The HIFU Treatment uses ultrasound to destroy prostate cancer cells. http://www.orlandoprostatecancer.com/
Central FL Prostate Care Center
410 Celebration Place
Celebration, FL 34747
Toll Free: (877) 458-8443
Local: (407) 584-7771
