Focal Laser AblationThe removal of small amounts of tissue from the body using s... Full Definition is a procedure that uses a laser to destroy a tumorA lump or swelling caused by abnormal growth of cells. Not a... Full Definition within the prostateThe prostate is a walnut-sized gland located between the bla... Full Definition. “Focal” means it treats just the tumor and not the entire prostate. It is an emerging therapy that is not yet part of the standard treatment protocol, but it provides another alternative to men who wish to avoid the side effects of a radical prostatectomySurgical removal of the entire prostate. or radiationHigh-energy particles that cause ionization and tissue damag... Full Definition therapy.
Who is this treatment best for?
Men with small tumors that are contained within the prostate. Men who wish to explore emerging therapies.
What to Expect
Prior to the procedure, a radiologist will perform an MRI to locate the tumor. The MRI images will help the doctor place a thin laser fiber into the tumor. During the procedure, the doctor will control energy flowing into the fiber, which will heat the tumor and destroy it. The outpatient procedure is quick and may be repeated. Patients require only local anesthetic and mild sedation. No hospital stay is required. And, should the cancer resurface, whole gland procedures (i.e., removing the entire prostate) may still be performed.
Who orders or performs the treatment?
What are common side effects?
The risks of side effects are dramatically lower with this focused therapy, although there is still a risk of erectile dysfunction, urinary incontinence, or bowel problems, especially if the tumor being treated is close to the nerves important to erectile function, the urethra, or the rectal wall. In these cases, imaging with MRI may help the surgeon avoid these delicate structures and further reduce the risk of complications.