High-intensity Frequency Ultrasound (HiFU) Service

Frequently Asked Questions

• What is HiFU?

  What is HiFU?

  HiFU is an innovative, FDA-approved treatment to kill prostate cancer cells. Unlike other treatments for prostate cancer, High-intensity Frequency Ultrasound does not require any incisions into the body. It uses intense, high-frequency sound waves to create heat energy that destroys prostate cancer cells. Your body naturally absorbs the dead cells, disposing of them with other waste products.

• What happens during HiFU treatment?

  What happens during HiFU treatment?

  First, you will meet with Dr. Rajaratnam to discuss your specific concerns and determine if HiFU is right for you. If so, you will receive instructions on how to preparer the procedure.

  On the day of the procedure, you will likely be asked to arrive early in the morning. A member of the California Wellness Institute team will prepare you for the procedure, which may include general anesthesia or other form of sedation.

  Dr. Rajaratnam uses the HiFU device and MRI images to direct the intense, high-frequency sound waves through the wall of your rectum into your prostate. The procedure typically takes a few hours, depending upon the size of your prostate.

  After the procedure, you will spend 1-2 hours in recovery then be discharged home. Patients are advised to take it easy for a couple of days, but can walk around immediately after the procedure.

• What are the benefits of HiFU treatment?

  What are the benefits of HiFU treatment?

  The many benefits of HiFU include:

  • Reduced risk of erectile dysfunction
  • Reduced risk of incontinence
  • No incisions are required
  • Relatively quick procedure
  • No overnight hospital stay
  • Rapid recovery
  • Preservation of non-cancerous prostate tissue while ablating cancer cells (Focal therapy)