HIFU: High-intensity focused ultrasound
- HIFU uses sound waves to destroy cancer cells, targeting prostate cancer accurately.
- It is non-invasive, guided by 3D MRI and live ultrasound.
- Recovery is quick, with most patients returning home the next day.
NICE Approved
2,186
Focal Therapy
Treatments Completed
Treatments Completed
Avoid Incontinence
and Erectile problems
and Erectile problems
Fast recovery
Outpatient procedure with quick recovery time (2-3 days)
Little to no side effects
Low risk of incontinence and impotence
Minimally invasive
No hormones, radiation or incisions
High-intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU) is a very successful non-invasive treatment that uses ultrasound waves to target and destroy cancerous prostate tissue with precision, sparing nearby healthy structures. It has been used clinically for more than 20 years.
At The Focal Therapy Clinic, we use state-of-the-art MRI software to precisely target cancerous tissues with HIFU. We have lowered the risk of you losing erectile function or bladder control, to help you get back to normal life.
At The Focal Therapy Clinic, our expert consultant urologists have up to 20 year’s experience in providing clinical HIFU treatments, ensuring high precision and successful patient outcomes.
Every patient case is reviewed at our weekly multidiciplinary team meeting (MDT) meeting where your case is reviewed in detail by our team of urologists, oncologists and uro-radiologist.
Our Uro-Radiologist team, led by Dr. Clare Allen, a prostate MRI and Focal Therapy pioneer, develops personalised treatment plans for each patient based on detailed review of your MRI images and biopsy results.
Learn more about how HIFU works
Mr Raj Nigam Does Focal therapy work
00:00:41
Playlist
Learn more about how HIFU works
SUMMARY
Mr. Raj Nigam (Consultant Urologist, The Focal Therapy Clinic): Focal therapy works, but not all men are suitable. Careful selection is crucial, with a detailed analysis ensuring that only the right candidates receive treatment for their specific cancer, maximizing effectiveness and safety.
This content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Read more.
Mr Tim Dudderidge How successful is HIFU
00:02:16
Playlist
Learn more about how HIFU works
SUMMARY
Mr. Tim Dudderidge (Consultant Urologist, The Focal Therapy Clinic): Success in prostate cancer treatment isnt just about survivalit includes preserving urinary and sexual function. After 78 years, focal therapy, surgery, and radiotherapy show equivalent cancer control, but focal therapy has far fewer side effects, making it a compelling option for many men.
This content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Read more.
Mr Raj Nigam Is NanoKnife better than HIFU
00:01:00
Playlist
Learn more about how HIFU works
SUMMARY
Mr. Raj Nigam (Consultant Urologist, The Focal Therapy Clinic): HIFU and NanoKnife are chosen based on tumor location. HIFU treats the posterior prostate, while NanoKnife targets anterior tumors. Comparative data between them is still evolving, and the choice depends on tumor characteristics and patient preference.
This content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Read more.
| Feature | HIFU |
|---|---|
| Treatment Type | Minimally invasive focal therapy |
| Energy Used | High-intensity focused ultrasound (thermal) |
| Hospital Stay | Outpatient (same day) |
| Urinary Incontinence Risk | Very low (<1%) |
| Erectile Dysfunction Risk | Low (~5-10%) |
| Repeatable Treatment? | Yes |
| Best for Tumour Location | Tumours near the base of the prostate gland |
| Suitability | Men eligible for focal therapy where tumour location is near the base of the prostate gland |
| Follow-Up Care | Regular PSA testing and occasional MRI scans |
“So I had the HIFU treatment…and the rest has been joyful and happy. I do not feel like a cancer sufferer.”
Perry Letcher
The Focal Therapy Clinic patient
Is HIFU right for me?
HIFU is a minimally-invasive treatment for men with localised, medium-to-large-volume prostate cancer in the lower part of the prostate. HIFU could be right for you if your prostate cancer is:
Early or intermediate stage
In the anterior or lateral parts of the prostate
Localised
Gleason score of 7 or lower
It could also be the right choice if you are on the NHS Active Surveillance protocol, and if you are keen to avoid long-time side effects from prostate cancer treatment.
Check your suitability
Success rates
HIFU has been shown to be extremely effective for controlling cancer, potency and fertility. It may have more predictable results than NanoKnife, especially in larger tumours or those located near critical structures.
Cancer control
88% needed no further treatment after HIFU
Sexual potency
90%+ had normal sexual function after HIFU
Urinary continence
98% had no problems with urinary continence after HIFU
Mr Marc Laniado MRI US Fusion technology and focal therapy success rates
00:01:00
Playlist
NanoKnife (IRE) Focal Therapy for Prostate Cancer
SUMMARY
Mr. Marc Laniado (Consultant Urologist, The Focal Therapy Clinic): MRI fusion improves focal therapy accuracy, ensuring over 90% of men are cancer-free at one year. Globally, 7580% of men avoid radical treatment for 610 years post-focal therapy, making it an effective and minimally invasive option for prostate cancer.
This content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Read more.
HIFU: Advantages and Disadvantages
Advantages
- Minimally invasive - No incisions, no radiation, no hormones
- Preserves sexual function & continence - spares nerves and urinary structures
- Outpatient procedure - Go home the same day. Rapid recovery
- Repeatable if needed - Can be combined with other treatments
- Effective cancer control - equivalent to radiotherapy or surgery at 8 years
Disadvantages
- Not suitable for all prostate cancers - Advanced cases may require other treatments
- Follow-up monitoring required - Regular PSA testing and MRI scans needed.
- Risk of incomplete treatment at front of prostate - HIFU has a range of 3.0 cm from the rectum. Tumours at the front of the prostate care hard to reach.
What to Expect Before, During, and After Treatment
What to Expect Before, During, and After Treatment – Hifu
- Pre-treatment imaging (MRI/ultrasound) to pinpoint the cancer
- Blood tests (PSA levels, general health)
- Discussion of anesthesia options (general or spinal)
- Bowel preparation (as advised by your medical team)
Mr Tim Dudderidge How should I prepare for focal therapy
00:00:25
Playlist
Care: Before Treatment
SUMMARY
Mr. Tim Dudderidge (Consultant Urologist, The Focal Therapy Clinic): Before focal therapy, youll receive fasting instructions and arrival details. Avoid a heavy meal the night before, and if you have any questions, check with the ward nurses to ensure youre fully prepared for your procedure.
This content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Read more.
Mr Tim Dudderidge What happens on the day of a focal therapy treatment
00:01:37
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Care: On the Day
SUMMARY
Mr. Tim Dudderidge (Consultant Urologist, The Focal Therapy Clinic): Focal therapy is a day-case procedure performed under general anesthesia, typically lasting 6090 minutes. A catheter is required for 57 days, and most patients resume normal activities soon after, making it a minimally invasive and efficient treatment option.
This content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Read more.
05 Mr Tim Dudderidge Do I need a general anaesthetic for focal therapy
00:00:46
Playlist
Care: On the Day
SUMMARY
Mr. Tim Dudderidge (Consultant Urologist, The Focal Therapy Clinic): **Most patients can safely undergo general anesthesia for HIFU, NanoKnife, and cryotherapy**. **Spinal anesthesia is not suitable for HIFU or NanoKnife but may be an option for cryotherapy**.
This content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Read more.
Mr Tim Dudderidge What happens during focal therapy
00:01:38
Playlist
Care: On the Day
SUMMARY
Mr. Tim Dudderidge (Consultant Urologist, The Focal Therapy Clinic): Focal therapy procedures last 6090 minutes under anesthesia, using MRI-ultrasound fusion to precisely target cancer. HIFU, cryotherapy, and NanoKnife effectively destroy cancer cells while preserving healthy tissue, offering a minimally invasive alternative to surgery or radiotherapy.
This content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Read more.
Mr Tim Dudderidge Recovery after focal therapy
00:01:04
Playlist
Care: Recovery
SUMMARY
Mr. Tim Dudderidge (Consultant Urologist, The Focal Therapy Clinic): Pain after focal therapy is uncommon, but bladder spasms are the most frequent discomfort, typically lasting 2448 hours. Antispasmodic drugs and simple painkillers help manage symptoms, ensuring a smoother recovery.
This content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Read more.
Mr Tim Dudderidge How long does it take to recover from focal therapy
00:01:25
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Care: Recovery
SUMMARY
Mr. Tim Dudderidge (Consultant Urologist, The Focal Therapy Clinic): Recovery after focal therapy is quick. Most patients resume light activities within a week and return to normal physical activity soon after. Some may experience temporary urgency or fatigue, but side effects are typically mild compared to traditional treatments.
This content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Read more.
Mr Tim Dudderidge Will I need to wear a pad after focal therapy
00:00:32
Playlist
Care: Recovery
SUMMARY
Mr. Tim Dudderidge (Consultant Urologist, The Focal Therapy Clinic): Post-surgery pad use is usually due to sphincter damage, leading to long-term incontinence risks. In contrast, focal therapy may cause only temporary urgency-related leakage, with most patients regaining full bladder control quickly. Website: https://www.thefocaltherapyclinic.co.uk LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/the-focal-therapy-clinic/ Facebook: facebook.com/TheFocalTC Telephone: +44 (0) 207 036 8870 #FocalTherapy #ProstateHealth #MinimallyInvasive #MensHealth #ProstateCancerTreatment #Urology
This content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Read more.
Mr Tim Dudderidge When can I go home after focal therapy
00:00:40
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Care: After your treatment
SUMMARY
Mr. Tim Dudderidge (Consultant Urologist, The Focal Therapy Clinic): Most patients go home within a few hours after focal therapy, once theyve eaten, had fluids, and been shown how to use the catheter. Those traveling far may choose to stay in a nearby hotel overnight for added convenience and comfort.
This content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Read more.
Mr Marc Laniado Will I need help getting or maintaining an erection after focal therapy
00:00:41
Playlist
Care: After your treatment
SUMMARY
Mr. Marc Laniado (Consultant Urologist, The Focal Therapy Clinic): Most men regain normal erections within a few months after focal therapy, though medications can help. By one year, function is usually restored, with rare cases needing further treatment or additional support.
This content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Read more.
Mr Raj Nigam After focal therapy what tests are done to see if it was effective
00:01:38
Playlist
Care: After your treatment
SUMMARY
Mr. Raj Nigam (Consultant Urologist, The Focal Therapy Clinic): We closely monitor all focal therapy patients with regular PSA tests and MRI scans to track treatment success. If recurrence occurs (510%), further focal therapy or traditional treatments like surgery or radiotherapy remain viable options, ensuring flexible and effective cancer management.
This content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Read more.
Side effects & Risks
| Symptom | Frequency | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Increased Urinary Frequency | Common | Usually temporary |
| Mild discomfort in perineum area | Common | 2-3 Days |
| Erectile dysfunction | Common | Usually temporary |
| Blood in urine or semen | Rare <5% | - |
| Urinary Catheter required | Rare | 3-5 Days |
| Risk of incontinence | Rare | - |
| Repeat Treatment | Sometimes | - |
Questions to ask your doctor
Am I a good candidate for HIFU prostate cancer treatment?
Are You a Good Candidate for HIFU (High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound)?
- Your cancer is intermediate risk (usually Gleason 3+4 or 4+3).
- The cancer is localised (hasn’t spread outside the prostate).
- Your PSA is under 15–20 ng/mL.
- You are expected to live at least 8–10 more years.
- The cancer is in one main spot and small enough to target.
Note: HIFU is not usually used for very low-risk or very high-risk cancer. It aims to treat the cancer while keeping side effects like incontinence or erection problems low.
"I had the HIFU procedure with Tim Dudderidge and was very happy with the results... I have absolutely no incontinence and I'm fully sexually active without any side effects."
“Focal HIFU treats cancer with lower side effects.”
Is HIFU available at your clinic, and how experienced is the team?
HIFU is available at the Focal Therapy Clinic in the UK. It is one of the leading centres for focal therapy, including HIFU, NanoKnife, and Cryotherapy. The team includes top urologists like Mr. Tim Dudderidge, Mr Marc Laniado, Mr Raj Nigam and Mr Alan Doherty who have treated over 2,000 patients successfully.
Patient quote: "I had the HIFU procedure with Tim Dudderidge and was very happy with the results." – Graham Pipe, FTC HIFU patient.How does HIFU compare to other treatments like NanoKnife, surgery or radiotherapy?
HIFU targets only the cancer, not the whole prostate. This means fewer side effects like leaking or erection problems compared to surgery or radiotherapy. NanoKnife is also precise and may preserve erections slightly better, especially in tricky cancer locations.
Patient quote: "I have absolutely no incontinence and I'm fully sexually active without any side effects." – Graham Pipe, HIFU patientSurgeon quote: "Focal HIFU kills cancer with minimal side effects. It preserves sexual function reliably." – Mr. Alan Doherty
How many times can HIFU be repeated if cancer comes back?
HIFU can be safely repeated if the cancer comes back in the treated area. Studies show about 15 to 20% of men may need a second round, and it usually works well. Follow-up scans and biopsies help decide if another treatment is needed.
Urologist quote: “Focal HIFU lets us hit the cancer without harming the rest of the prostate.” – Mr. Raj NigamWhat are the success rate and potential side effects for my specific case?
For men with intermediate-risk, localized prostate cancer, HIFU has a success rate of about 88% at 5 years—meaning no need for surgery, radiation, or further treatment. Side effects are usually mild: 2% need a pad for leaks for a short time, and 90%+ men keep erections, especially if function was good before treatment.
Urologist quote: “HIFU preserves sexual function reliably.” – Mr. Alan DohertyPatient quote: “I have no incontinence and full sexual function after HIFU.” – Nigel Harris, FTC patient
What follow-up schedule should I expect?
After HIFU, follow-up usually includes:
- PSA tests every 3 months for the first year
- MRI scan at 12 months
- Biopsy only if the MRI scan indicates an area of concern
- Regular checks for urinary or sexual function
This helps catch any signs of cancer coming back early.
Urologist quote: “Monitoring side effects and recurrence rates is a key part of our research” – Mr. Marc LanaidoChoosing Between NanoKnife & HIFU: Key Factors
Both NanoKnife IRE and HIFU are focal therapy options that treat localized prostate cancer while preserving quality of life. The choice between them depends on tumor location, treatment goals, and patient preferences.
| Benefit | NanoKnife | Hifu |
|---|---|---|
| Best for Tumour Location | Irregularly shaped or near critical structures (nerves, urethra) | Well-defined tumors in specific prostate zones |
| Preservation of Nerves | No heat damage; excellent for preserving erectile function | Low risk, but heat may affect nearby structures |
| Suitability for Recurrent Cancer | Ideal for post-radiation recurrence | For tumors near the base of the prostate |
| Side Effects | Minimal impact on urinary function and sexual health | Low risk of incontinence and erectile dysfunction |
| Treatment risk | Risk of rectal injury at base of prostate | Risk of under treatment at front of prostate |
The Role of MR-US Fusion Technology in Treatment Accuracy
MRI-Ultrasound (MR-US) Fusion Technology combines high-resolution MRI imaging with real-time ultrasound guidance, allowing for precise targeting of cancerous tissue.
Benefits of MR-US Fusion Technology
- Improved Tumour Detection - More accurate than ultrasound alone
- Greater Targeting Precision - Helps specialists precisely pinpoint tumours
- Reduces Risk of Missing Cancerous Tissue - Ensures comprehensive tumour destruction
Mr Marc Laniado MRI US Fusion technology and focal therapy success rates
00:01:00
Playlist
NanoKnife (IRE) Focal Therapy for Prostate Cancer
SUMMARY
Mr. Marc Laniado (Consultant Urologist, The Focal Therapy Clinic): MRI fusion improves focal therapy accuracy, ensuring over 90% of men are cancer-free at one year. Globally, 7580% of men avoid radical treatment for 610 years post-focal therapy, making it an effective and minimally invasive option for prostate cancer.
This content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Read more.
Frequently asked questions
What is HIFU prostate cancer treatment?
HIFU (High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound) is a prostate cancer treatment that uses sound waves to heat and destroy cancer cells in a precise area of the prostate. It’s a type of focal therapy, meaning only the cancer spot is treated—not the whole prostate. This helps avoid damage to nearby nerves and muscles, lowering the risk of side effects like incontinence or erection problems.
HIFU is best for men with localized, intermediate-risk cancer (Gleason 3+4 or 4+3). It’s done as a day-case under general or spinal anaesthetic, with no cuts or stitches.
“HIFU kills cancer with minimal side effects.” – Mr. Alan Doherty
“I had the HIFU procedure… no incontinence, fully sexually active.” – Graham Pipe, FTC patient
HIFU is best for men with localized, intermediate-risk cancer (Gleason 3+4 or 4+3). It’s done as a day-case under general or spinal anaesthetic, with no cuts or stitches.
“HIFU kills cancer with minimal side effects.” – Mr. Alan Doherty
“I had the HIFU procedure… no incontinence, fully sexually active.” – Graham Pipe, FTC patient
What is the success rate of HIFU for prostate cancer?
HIFU has shown strong success rates for men with localized, intermediate-risk prostate cancer. A large UK study found that 88% of men avoided further treatment (like surgery or radiotherapy) for at least 5 years after one or more HIFU sessions. 98% had no cancer spread, and 99% were still alive overall. For men with Gleason 6 or 7 cancers, success rates were even higher.
HIFU works by heating and destroying only the cancer area, so it keeps the rest of the prostate and nearby structures safe. This helps reduce long-term side effects.
"I have no incontinence and full sexual function after HIFU." – Nigel Harris, FTC patient
“Focal HIFU treats cancer with lower side effects.” – Mr. Raj Nigam
HIFU works by heating and destroying only the cancer area, so it keeps the rest of the prostate and nearby structures safe. This helps reduce long-term side effects.
"I have no incontinence and full sexual function after HIFU." – Nigel Harris, FTC patient
“Focal HIFU treats cancer with lower side effects.” – Mr. Raj Nigam
Where can I get HIFU treatment for prostate cancer?
In the UK, HIFU for prostate cancer is offered at a few specialist centres. One of the most experienced clinics is The Focal Therapy Clinic (FTC). They focus on treating men with localized prostate cancer using focal therapies like HIFU, NanoKnife, and Cryotherapy. The clinic works with top urologists including Mr. Tim Dudderidge, Mr. Marc Laniado, Mr. Alan Doherty, and Mr. Raj Nigam—all experts in using HIFU safely and effectively.
FTC offers private care and second opinions. You can self-refer or be referred by your GP or NHS consultant. Some NHS hospitals such as Imperial Hospital or UCLH also offer HIFU, but access may be limited and varies by region.
“I had the HIFU procedure with Tim Dudderidge and was very happy with the results.” – Graham Pipe, FTC patient
FTC offers private care and second opinions. You can self-refer or be referred by your GP or NHS consultant. Some NHS hospitals such as Imperial Hospital or UCLH also offer HIFU, but access may be limited and varies by region.
“I had the HIFU procedure with Tim Dudderidge and was very happy with the results.” – Graham Pipe, FTC patient
How many times can you have HIFU for prostate cancer?
HIFU can be repeated if the cancer comes back. Around 15% to 20% of men may need a second HIFU session, usually because new cancer appears in the treated area or elsewhere in the prostate. Most men respond well to one or two treatments. Since HIFU targets only the cancer, the healthy parts of the prostate are left alone, making retreatment safer than with surgery or radiation.
If HIFU fails more than once, other treatments—like NanoKnife, surgery, or radiotherapy—are still possible. Careful follow-up with PSA tests, MRIs, and possibly another biopsy helps spot any recurrence early.
“Focal HIFU treats cancer with lower side effects and is very safe.” – Mr. Marc Laniado
“If this cures my cancer, it’s unbelievable.” – Michael Anthony, FTC HIFU patient
If HIFU fails more than once, other treatments—like NanoKnife, surgery, or radiotherapy—are still possible. Careful follow-up with PSA tests, MRIs, and possibly another biopsy helps spot any recurrence early.
“Focal HIFU treats cancer with lower side effects and is very safe.” – Mr. Marc Laniado
“If this cures my cancer, it’s unbelievable.” – Michael Anthony, FTC HIFU patient
Who is a good candidate for prostate cancer (HIFU)?
A good candidate for HIFU (High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound) is typically a man with localized, intermediate-risk prostate cancer. This often means a Gleason score of 3+4 or 4+3, a PSA under 15–20 ng/mL, and cancer limited to one area of the prostate. HIFU is also suitable for men who want to avoid side effects like incontinence or erectile dysfunction, which are more common with surgery or radiotherapy.
You should also be healthy enough to live at least 8–10 more years, and your MRI and biopsy should show a cancer spot that can be clearly targeted.
If your cancer is very low-risk, active surveillance may be better. If it’s high-risk, HIFU may not be strong enough on its own.
“HIFU kills cancer with minimal side effects.” – Mr. Alan Doherty
"I have no incontinence and full sexual function after HIFU." – Nigel Harris, FTC patient
You should also be healthy enough to live at least 8–10 more years, and your MRI and biopsy should show a cancer spot that can be clearly targeted.
If your cancer is very low-risk, active surveillance may be better. If it’s high-risk, HIFU may not be strong enough on its own.
“HIFU kills cancer with minimal side effects.” – Mr. Alan Doherty
"I have no incontinence and full sexual function after HIFU." – Nigel Harris, FTC patient
Does prostate cancer return after HIFU?
Yes, prostate cancer can return after HIFU, but the risk is relatively low if you’re a good candidate. In one major study, 88% of men avoided further treatment for at least 5 years after HIFU. Around 15 – 20 % may need a second HIFU session, and a smaller number (<5%) may need different treatment like surgery or radiotherapy later.
Most recurrences happen in or near the treated area, which can be spotted early through follow-up PSA tests, MRI scans, and sometimes a biopsy.
"Ongoing monitoring of PSA is necessary after prostate cancer treatment." – Mr. Marc Laniado
Most recurrences happen in or near the treated area, which can be spotted early through follow-up PSA tests, MRI scans, and sometimes a biopsy.
"Ongoing monitoring of PSA is necessary after prostate cancer treatment." – Mr. Marc Laniado
Reference List
Ahmed HU et al. (2015). Focal therapy for localized prostate cancer: a systematic review of the literature. Nature Reviews Urology.
Ganzer R, Fritsche HM, Brandtner A, et al. (2017). Five-year outcome of HIFU treatment for localized prostate cancer. Urologia Internationalis.
The Focal Therapy Clinic – Prostate Cancer Treatments (Internal Resource).
NHS Resources on Prostate Cancer (Internal/External Resource).