HIFU side effects
As a minimally invasive focal therapy, the side effects of high-intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU) are significantly fewer than those of radical prostatectomy or radiotherapy.
Based on outcomes from over 2,000 procedures, The Focal Therapy Clinic’s data shows that HIFU preserves quality of life while effectively controlling cancer. Below, we explain each potential side effect, how common it is, and what to expect during recovery.
Will I need help gaining or maintaining an erection after focal therapy?
Cancer control
88% cancer-free at 5 years (Ganzer et al., 2017)
Sexual function
90%+ preserved sexual function after HIFU (FTC audit, n=265)
What to expect: HIFU side effects
Because HIFU targets only your tumour, leaving your prostate and the surrounding nerves intact, the likelihood of permanent incontinence or erectile dysfunction is much lower compared with surgery. Learn more about how HIFU treatment works.
Our patient data shows that side effects after HIFU are mild and infrequent. Based on our audit of 265 patients, possible side effects include:
| Side Effect | How Common | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Urinary incontinence | Less than 2% (97% maintain full continence) | Typically temporary; resolves within weeks |
| Urinary tract infection | Small risk (due to catheter) | Catheter typically removed within 1-3 days |
| Blood or debris in urine | Common and expected | Days to weeks as treated tissue breaks down |
| Decreased/absent ejaculatory fluid | Small risk; may affect fertility | May be permanent in some cases |
| Erectile dysfunction | Less than 10% (90%+ preserve function) | Often temporary; discuss with your consultant |
| Perineal discomfort | Mild; between testicles and rectum | Typically resolves within days |
| Testicular infection | Rare | Treatable with antibiotics |
Source: FTC patient outcome audit (n=265, October 2025)
“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
Hear from some of our previous patients about their experience with HIFU.
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Any questions?
If you’ve got any questions about your prostate cancer diagnosis or want to know more about HIFU treatment or NanoKnife treatment, don’t hesitate to get in touch with our friendly, knowledgeable team.
