HIFU Technology

HIFU treatments use high-intensity focused ultrasound to generate heat capable of destroying abnormal or cancerous cells. This procedure is safe and non-invasive, minimizing risks for the patient.

Tecnología HIFU

The treatment with high-intensity focused ultrasound, known as HIFU technology (from its acronym in English, High Intensity Focused Ultrasound), is used to destroy specific cells in a targeted manner. In this procedure, high-energy sound waves are directed to a particular area, and when they strike the tissue, they generate heat that destroys the cells.

HIFU technology has a wide range of applications, such as the treatment of cancerous tumors, thyroid nodules, essential tremor (the one that occurs involuntarily), or Parkinson's disease.

How does it work?

The HIFU treatment operates by emitting high-frequency ultrasound waves targeted at a specific location in the body. When the energy beams converge at a single point, an ablation (thermal tissue cut) occurs, destroying the abnormal cells.

In high-intensity focused ultrasound treatment, a lens is used to concentrate the ultrasound beams so that they strike simultaneously at a specific location. The waves reach the target tissue at a temperature between 55 and 80°C and remain on it for just a few seconds.

What are the benefits of HIFU technology?

The main advantage of HIFU technology is that it allows for a non-surgical treatment, reducing risks, discomfort, and recovery time. This procedure is minimally invasive and rarely causes mild side effects.

When is it indicated?

The primary applications of HIFU technology include:

Cancerous tumors, especially those located in the rectum, breast, liver, uterus, cervix, or vagina. Recent studies suggest that it is a good option for treating prostate cancer.
Abnormal neoplasms, such as thyroid nodules.
Essential tremor.
Tremors caused by Parkinson's disease. In these cases, the high-intensity ultrasound focuses on the group of neurons involved in the production of the tremor.

What to expect from HIFU technology

HIFU technology is a non-invasive procedure that is carried out on an outpatient basis, meaning hospitalization is not required. Depending on the pathology being treated, it may be necessary to stay under observation for 24 hours before returning home, especially for patients with Parkinson’s disease.

It is necessary to sign an informed consent and wear only a hospital gown. Additionally, jewelry, metal objects, and contact lenses must be removed. The use of makeup and nail polish is also discouraged.

Once prepared and lying on the stretcher, the patient is placed inside a magnetic resonance (MR) device, which is a circular machine that moves around the table. It is important to be prepared as it emits loud sounds, and earplugs are provided for comfort. The MR images guide the specialist in focusing the ultrasound on the targeted cells.

When the ultrasound waves hit the body, there is no pain or discomfort. However, swelling, irritation, or tingling may appear in the skin of the area that received the waves afterward.

The use of HIFU technology is contraindicated in pregnant women, as the radiation is nearly harmless to adults but may cause harm to the fetus. It also cannot be applied to patients with metal implants or pacemakers.