Prostate Cancer
A prostate cancer diagnosis can be unsettling. It's important to know that you're not alone. According to the American Cancer Society, about 1 in 8 men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer during their lifetime. In 2024, an estimated 299,000 new cases are expected. While prostate cancer often has no early symptoms, early detection is crucial for successful treatment.
Diagnosis and treatment
At CHI Memorial, we are committed to providing the highest quality care for prostate cancer patients. We follow the National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN) guidelines for the diagnosis and treatment of prostate cancer. Widely recognized and used as the gold standard by oncologists and other medical professionals, their recommendations are based on treatment plans of healthcare providers worldwide, the latest research and years of experience.
Prostate cancer is often slow-growing and highly curable when detected early. We offer a comprehensive range of treatment options, including:
- Hormone therapy
- Radiation therapy
- Surgery, including minimally invasive robotic-assisted procedures
- Chemotherapy (in rare cases)
When you seek treatment at CHI Memorial, you can feel confident that the treatment plan recommended is not based on the opinion of a few, but on the analysis of a much broader medical community focused on eliminating cancer using the most advanced treatment strategies. Our team of experienced physicians, surgeons, and oncologists work collaboratively to provide you with the most effective multidisciplinary treatment options available. We are committed to improving your quality of life while minimizing debilitating side effects.
A comprehensive overview of the NCCN Prostate Cancer Early Stage Guidelines can be found here. Inside you’ll find screening options, symptoms and stages of the disease, managing risk factors, treatment for early and later stage prostate cancer, and life after cancer treatment.
These technologies could change your life for the better
Da Vinci Xi robotic surgical system
The Da Vinci Xi robotic surgical system assists with laparoscopic prostatectomies and represents the most advanced prostate cancer treatment available today. The Da Vinci Xi provides superior 3D visualization, as surgeons use its robotic arms to perform prostate surgeries through keyhole-sized incisions. The actual surgical instruments are the size of match heads, ensuring precise control that results in:
- Less pain
- Shorter hospital stays
- Significantly decreased blood loss
- Less scarring
- Lower incidence of incontinence and erectile dysfunction
- Faster recovery
Jeffrey Mullins, MD, CHI Memorial Urologic Cancer Medical Director and urologist with CHI Memorial Urology Associates, shares the benefits of robotic-assisted surgery for prostate cancer treatment.
Intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT)
Intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) uses computer-guided precision to target tumors with larger doses of radiation. Additional therapies kill cancer cells by heating, freezing or injecting radioactive “seeds” directly into the prostate gland. All of these treatments help protect healthy, surrounding tissue.
High-intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU)
High-intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU) is an innovative and minimally-invasive treatment option for prostate cancer. Like our pioneering Aquablation therapy for BPH, we’re at the forefront of medical advancements, bringing you the latest precision-focused treatments.
What is HIFU?
High-intensity focused ultrasound, or HIFU, is a revolutionary procedure designed to treat prostate cancer with pinpoint accuracy, sparing surrounding healthy tissue and minimizing the risk of side effects like incontinence and erectile dysfunction. This technology utilizes high-frequency sound waves to precisely target and ablate, or remove, cancer cells in the prostate, leaving the rest of the gland unharmed.
We understand that choosing the proper prostate cancer treatment can be overwhelming, often forcing patients to compromise their quality of life. There’s no need for compromise if HIFU is right for you.
Dr. Jeffrey Mullins, CHI Memorial Urologic Cancer Medical Director and urologist with CHI Memorial Urology Associates, discusses HIFU in this HealthBreak segment.
80 - 95%
Success rate for achieving complete cancer control or remission ranges in patients with localized prostate cancer, depending on patient selection and other factors.
<5%
Low incidence of some side effects. Studies have reported a low risk of urinary incontinence (typically less than 5%) compared to traditional treatments like surgery and radiation.
1-3 Hours
HIFU treatment time. HIFU is typically performed as an outpatient procedure, and most patients can go home on the same day.
Why might HIFU be right for you?
HIFU is an ideal option for those with early-stage, low-grade prostate cancer that is visible on an MRI or ultrasound. Our team of experts can help you determine if you qualify for this innovative therapy.
- Minimally Invasive: HIFU is a minimally invasive outpatient procedure, meaning no incisions are made during treatment. It’s a precise and effective way to combat prostate cancer.
- Personalized Treatment: HIFU is tailored to your unique anatomy. Our state-of-the-art technology allows us to create a real-time surgical map of your prostate, ensuring that only cancerous tissue is targeted.
Insurance coverage
HIFU is now covered by most insurers, including Medicare. Contact your provider for more information, and rest assured that you can explore this advanced treatment option without worrying about financial constraints.
Get started
CHI Memorial provides comprehensive and compassionate care, ensuring that you have access to the most advanced treatments available. Don’t compromise on your health – choose CHI Memorial for HIFU treatment, where your well-being is our top priority.
Have questions about HIFU or want more information?
For more information, call CHI Memorial Urology Associates at (423) 697-0072.
Support at every step
Our cancer patients have access to a nurse navigator, a designated point of contact who can educate you on the disease process, answer questions, help you prepare physically and emotionally for treatment, provide resources and connect you with other modes of support throughout this journey. These include access to dietitians, clinical social workers, massage therapists, and chaplains who focus on spiritual care and advance care planning. Visit CHI Memorial Center for Cancer Support or call (423) 495-7778 for more information.