TULSA uses Directional High-Intensity Ultrasound delivered through the urethra. This means the energy is delivered directly through the urethra (which is being cooled throughout the procedure) to the edge of the prostate. The energy does not come through the rectum, leaving the rectum preserved. In addition, TULSA has rectal cooling throughout the procedure to further protect the rectum from any unintended heat.
HIFU uses High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound. This means the energy must pass through other tissue to reach the intended treatment location. The energy is directed through the rectum, meaning the rectal wall is exposed to direct heat. HIFU is typically guided by Ultrasound imaging, which doesn’t provide the anatomic detail of MRI or the real-time temperature feedback, which regulates the precision and predictability of the treatment.
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