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Pulsed Electrical Field (PEF) Ablation

A Revolutionary Approach to Prostate Cancer Care

What is PEF Ablation?

Pulsed Electrical Field (PEF) Ablation represents a significant advancement in treating localized prostate cancer. Unlike traditional methods that use heat (like laser or HIFU) or radiation, PEF uses rapid, targeted electrical pulses. These pulses create permanent, microscopic pores in the membranes of cancer cells, causing them to die off naturally.

It's a non-thermal ablation technique, meaning it destroys cancer without generating heat, which is key to its tissue-sparing potential.

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Your Treatment Journey

Consultation & Planning

Detailed discussion, review of records, advanced imaging (e.g., MRI) to map the tumor precisely. Trust Advanced Urology's prostate cancer doctors and schedule a consultation today.

The Procedure

Performed under general anesthesia. Ultrasound guidance is used to place thin probes accurately near the tumor. The PEF generator delivers the programmed electrical pulses. The procedure duration varies but is typically efficient.

Recovery

Post-procedure monitoring. Patients usually return home the same day with a temporary urinary catheter. Specific recovery instructions are provided.

Follow-Up

Regular monitoring with PSA tests and imaging as recommended by your urologist.

How PEF/IRE Works

Pulsed Electric Field (PEF) works by delivering short bursts of high-voltage electrical pulses through thin needle-like probes that are precisely placed around a tumor using advanced imaging techniques like MRI or ultrasound. These electrical pulses create a targeted electric field between the probes, causing the membranes of nearby cancer cells to develop microscopic pores. This process, known as electroporation, disrupts the cancer cells' ability to function and leads to a natural cell death process called apoptosis.

One of the key advantages of PEF is its precision. The electrical field selectively affects only the cancerous cells within the targeted area while sparing the surrounding healthy tissue. Structures such as nerves, blood vessels, and the urethral sphincter's collagenous matrix remain undamaged because the tissue-sparing electrical parameters are specifically designed to leave non-cancerous tissue intact. This makes PEF a powerful option for treating tumors in delicate or hard-to-reach areas.

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Why Consider PEF for Prostate Cancer?

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Potentially Fewer Side Effects

Aims to reduce the risk of common side effects like incontinence and erectile dysfunction compared to whole-gland treatments.

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Outpatient Procedure

Often performed in an Ambulatory Surgery Center (ASC) setting, allowing patients to return home the same day.

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Minimally Invasive

Typically performed through small probes, avoiding large incisions, leading to potentially faster recovery.

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Tissue-Sparing Potential

Designed to protect vital structures like nerves responsible for erectile function and the sphincter muscle controlling continence.

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Precise & Focused

Targets only the cancerous area (focal therapy), preserving the healthy parts of the prostate.

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Non-Thermal

Avoids heat-related damage to adjacent tissues often seen with other ablation methods.

Receive Advanced Prostate Cancer Treatment

Discuss your diagnosis and treatment options with our specialists to see if PEF/IRE Ablation is the right choice for you.

Is PEF Right for You?

PEF is an innovative option, often best suited for men with localized prostate cancer (cancer confined to the prostate gland) that is visible on imaging like MRI. It is important to note that eligibility requires a thorough evaluation, including review of biopsy results, PSA levels, imaging, and overall health.

Ideal candidates typically have the following:

  • Localized, clinically significant prostate cancer.
  • Tumors identifiable via MRI or advanced ultrasound.
  • Desire to minimize side effects and preserve urinary and sexual function.
  • Interest in focal therapy (treating only the tumor) rather than whole-gland treatment.

Aliya PEF Explained

Why Choose Advanced Urology for PEF?

Advanced Urology is one of the best prostate cancer treatment centers because we are committed to offering the most advanced and effective treatments. Our team includes experts highly skilled in performing PEF ablation. We bring unmatched experience and innovation to every case, such as:

  • Pioneering Expertise: We are proud to be the first Ambulatory Surgical Center (ASC) in the world to perform PEF for prostate cancer.
  • Specialized Training: Our physicians have undergone specific training for this technology.
  • State-of-the-Art Facility: Utilizing the latest imaging and PEF equipment.
  • Patient-Centered Care: Focused on personalized treatment plans and maximizing quality of life.
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