Today's Edition
ABU DHABI (ALETIHAD)
Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi, part of the M42 network, has introduced High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound (HIFU) in the emirate, adding to its wide range of advanced treatment options available for prostate cancer. The Focal One HIFU therapy is a revolutionary non-surgical procedure that offers patients a minimally invasive alternative to care.
Focal One HIFU therapy utilises focused ultrasound waves to precisely target and destroy diseased tissues without the need for incisions or anaesthesia. The technique is performed under real-time robotic guidance and precisely delivers controlled sound waves to the prostate, leading to the destruction of cancer cells with minimal damage to surrounding tissue. By selectively targeting cancerous tissue within the prostate, the Focal One HIFU technology helps avoid typical side effects of prostate cancer.
Dr. Waleed Hassen, Department Chair of Urology in the Surgical Subspecialties Institute, said: “While not all patients are candidates for the Focal One HIFU therapy, it is an exciting advancement for patients with low volume of cancer who want to avoid more invasive treatments such as surgery and radiation. The recovery period with Focal One HIFU therapy is also generally quicker, and it offers the flexibility of being repeatable if the cancer recurs or isn't fully treated initially.”
Hassen noted that the introduction of this technology contributes to Abu Dhabi's growing reputation as a hub for medical excellence.
This development is especially significant since prostate cancer is one of the five most common cancers worldwide, and the most common solid tumour in men, with 1.41 million new cases diagnosed in 2020 alone, as reported by the World Health Organisation (WHO).
However, the disease is highly treatable in its early stages, with advanced treatment options like Focal One HIFU therapy further increasing the rate of positive outcomes.
