In recent times, a new therapeutic method known as focused therapy (marginal gland ablation) has evolved for “intermediate risk” prostate cancer—mostly tiny tumors limited to one region of the prostate. Researchers at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center (MSK) have been collaborating closely with high-intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU), an innovative targeted therapeutic method supported by magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).
Now, a groundbreaking clinical experiment has shown that this less intrusive approach is effective for a wide range of individuals. The phase 2 trial, coordinated by MSK urologic cancer specialist Behfar Ehdaie, examined a certain kind of HIFU therapy in men with intermediate-risk cancer termed MR-guided focused ultrasound (MRgFUS). The patient’s condition was effectively controlled, and medication side effects were considerably decreased, thanks to the unique approach. Many men having intermediate-risk prostate cancer may be able to avoid operation, chemo, and radiation as a result of this.
This unique therapeutic technique, according to Dr. Ehdaie, will enhance the lives of so many patients with prostate cancer. Rather than removing all of the tissue in the prostate or breast, it is safer and more effective to treat particular portions of the breast or prostate, which considerably reduces the load on patients.
The clinical trial’s findings, which were published in Lancet Oncology on June 14, 2022, are a significant step in making the new HIFU technique a common aspect of prostate cancer treatment.
Active surveillance, operation, and radiation have generally been the main therapeutic choices when the cancer is localized to the prostate gland. However, males who had surgery or radiation generally experienced long-term adverse reactions, such as urination and sexual issues, which could affect their quality of life.
According to Dr. Ehdaie, advances in prostate cancer over the last two decades have been highlighted by triumphs that have helped all patients, and now focused therapy is another interesting field that has the potential to move the needle in prostate cancer treatment, as reported by Medical Xpress.
