HiFu Blog

For those medical students interested in the treatment of prostate cancer, they should consider becoming an HIFU Doctor through Urology Health Solutions, Inc. This treatment, also known as high intensity focused ultrasound, utilizes temperature to heat and destroy diseased tissues. This is a relatively new treatment, and there are some restrictions and guidelines to use this method for the treatment of prostate cancer.

In both the United States and the United Kingdom, this treatment is only allowed to be used in limited clinical trials. It is not yet approved by the Food and Drug Association as it is still in the testing phase. However, with further tests, health professionals believe that this method can be used to treat a variety of cancers.

This is a non-invasive treatment that experts hope will remove the need to perform a transurethral resection of the prostate, also known as a TURP. When treating prostate cancer, it is delivered via the rectum since this is the most direct access to the prostate. As a rule anesthesia is utilized, although it is not always required.

This method is also being tested as an option for patients who wish to undergo a vasectomy. The notion of a scalpel being used so near to such intimate parts of the body is disturbing to many men. This method can provide a scalpel-free option for men who wish to control their own reproductive rights through this technique of sterilization.

This is regarded as a permanent sterilization, and as such, any man considering the procedure should give it a great deal of thought. By utilizing a no-scalpel method, there are no stitches, and the time needed for healing is much less. There is less risk of infection, and men should be counseled about this option.

This method has been approved by the Food and Drug Administration for the treatment of uterine fibroids. In addition, it has been used successfully to treat other non-malignant growths such as neck tumors, and even some benign breast tumors in both women and men. Most patients prefer these non-invasive treatments due to the speed of recovery, the lack of stitches, and the lowered risk of infection.

This may prove to be a revolutionary treatment for those who, for various health reasons, are not well enough to deal with anesthesia, or cannot heal from surgery due to diabetes or a compromised immune system. There is research ongoing both in the East and the West on treating various forms of cancer in this way. So far the results have been moderately successful, but with further research, it may improve the way cancer is treated in the future.

With the dramatic rise in various cancers, especially very rare forms of the disease, will have an option available in circumstances where chemotherapy is not an ideal solution. In addition, this treatment does not have the degenerative impact that are so characteristic of radiation and chemo. Anyone wishing to work through Urology Health Solutions Inc. to become a HIFU Doctor will be on the cutting edge of new cancer treatment.
 

For those medical students interested in the treatment of prostate cancer, they should consider becoming an HIFU Doctor through Urology Health Solutions, Inc. This treatment, also known as high intensity focused ultrasound, utilizes temperature to heat and destroy diseased tissues. This is a relatively new treatment, and there are some restrictions and guidelines to use this method for the treatment of prostate cancer.

In both the United States and the United Kingdom, this treatment is only allowed to be used in limited clinical trials. It is not yet approved by the Food and Drug Association as it is still in the testing phase. However, with further tests, health professionals believe that this method can be used to treat a variety of cancers.

This is a non-invasive treatment that experts hope will remove the need to perform a transurethral resection of the prostate, also known as a TURP. When treating prostate cancer, it is delivered via the rectum since this is the most direct access to the prostate. As a rule anesthesia is utilized, although it is not always required.

This method is also being tested as an option for patients who wish to undergo a vasectomy. The notion of a scalpel being used so near to such intimate parts of the body is disturbing to many men. This method can provide a scalpel-free option for men who wish to control their own reproductive rights through this technique of sterilization.

This is regarded as a permanent sterilization, and as such, any man considering the procedure should give it a great deal of thought. By utilizing a no-scalpel method, there are no stitches, and the time needed for healing is much less. There is less risk of infection, and men should be counseled about this option.

This method has been approved by the Food and Drug Administration for the treatment of uterine fibroids. In addition, it has been used successfully to treat other non-malignant growths such as neck tumors, and even some benign breast tumors in both women and men. Most patients prefer these non-invasive treatments due to the speed of recovery, the lack of stitches, and the lowered risk of infection.

This may prove to be a revolutionary treatment for those who, for various health reasons, are not well enough to deal with anesthesia, or cannot heal from surgery due to diabetes or a compromised immune system. There is research ongoing both in the East and the West on treating various forms of cancer in this way. So far the results have been moderately successful, but with further research, it may improve the way cancer is treated in the future.

With the dramatic rise in various cancers, especially very rare forms of the disease, will have an option available in circumstances where chemotherapy is not an ideal solution. In addition, this treatment does not have the degenerative impact that are so characteristic of radiation and chemo. Anyone wishing to work through Urology Health Solutions Inc. to become a HIFU Doctor will be on the cutting edge of new cancer treatment.

HIFU which stands for high intensity focused ultrasound is a form of therapy administered by Central Florida HIFU doctors from Urology Health Solutions, Inc. that uses thermal energy that is highly focused to cells that suffer a particular pathology such as tumors with an aim of destroying them by burning. Central Florida HIFU surgeons mainly employ this technique also known as thermal ablative therapy to treat tumors. The process needs to be complemented with other imaging modalities to aid in precision so that normal tissues are free from injury.

Recently the surgeons are turning to the use of cryotherapy which is lesser painful with less likelihood of causing injury. Cryotherapy is the use of extremely cold temperature to freeze and therefore damage the abnormal cells. It involves directing an ablative needle to target tissue which then administers highly compressed argon gas that is alternated with helium gas. The argon gas has a very high cooling effect that causes the tip of the needle to become ice cold and thus freezing all the surrounding tissues.

Helium on the other hand has a warming effect, once passed in exchange for argon; it slowly causes thawing of the cells that had solidified from freezing. The process is then repeated causing a freezing and thawing cycle. This is very important to ensure maximum effectiveness of the therapy.

The treatment is able to achieve the destruction effect by causing immense stress on the cell with the rapid fall in temperature that does not allow the cells to slowly adapt to the changes. The first stage of lowering temperature to about zero degrees freezes the outside environment that harbors the cells. This causes them to shrink and in the process be destroyed. As the temperatures drop further, the internal environment also gets frozen destroying the integrity of internal structures causing complete damage.

The freezing part of the cycles must take at least 10 minutes to adequately destroy the cells that may be resistant in the first few minutes. The function of the slow thawing effect caused by helium is to prime the cells for another cycle of freezing so that all cells that might escaped the first attack are targeted.

There is a shifting trend by surgeons to the use of this kind of therapy because of the minimal patient invasion involved. Unlike most surgeries that usually involves cutting the skin to open up to patient and exercising the abnormal tumor tissues, this therapy involve a needle injection directly to the target site. This decreases the needs for admitting patients and prolonged hospital stays after operations. Patients also prefer this mode of treatment because it is less painful.

Cryotherapy was first used by a physician called Dr. James Arnott from England in the mid 1850s.he used salt solutions which he mixed with frozen ice crystals to freeze patients who had tumors in the breast, skin and cervix. The numbing effect made the process be used as an alternative in anesthesia but was later improved into a therapeutic technique.

Central Florida HIFU Surgeons are increasingly using cryotherapy to treat many forms of cancers. Most urologists have employed it in managing both renal and prostate tumors. There is more research being done to determine the effectiveness and side effects of using this form of therapy for treating other tumors like those involving sensitive organs like the live and bones to estimate the benefits. Contact an experienced Central Florida HIFU doctor from Urology Health Solutions, Inc. and stay informed.
 

As Urology Health Solutions, Inc. know, HIFU (High Intensity Focused Ultrasound) is a remedy for cancer by eliminating cancer cells using a high intensity ultrasound ray. The beams are comprised of high frequency sound waves that are produced by a device and they are then concentrated straight at cancer tissues, in so doing killing the cells.

Even if this technological innovation has existed for nearly Half a century, physicians have only began making use of it to be able to cure many different types of cancer in the recent times. Because the therapy particularly focuses on melanoma cells, it wishes to reduce the side-effects found in existing cancer therapies. Since this therapy doesn't do a lot harm to normal, healthy cells, scientists at the moment are investigating HIFU's stability in affected individuals with inoperable cancers; nevertheless, no distinct evidence regarding the treatment's performance in inoperable malignancies has been found.

Currently, HIFU is just being utilized in many forms of cancer having a sole cancerous growth, or growths clumped together at one site. This kind of treatment is not sophisticated sufficient in its present condition to control cancers that are typical. Mainly because that this technology cannot go through oxygen or bone, it is not ideal for patients with cancer which has spread to other parts of their bodies.

After the high intensity ultrasound stream will be focused toward a certain web site, it raises the particular temperature of the location substantially. In this upsurge in temperature, the particular tumor cellular material and attacked tissues acquire wrecked by way of necrosis, or perhaps mobile collapse because of not enough air in your community.

Tumor in the prostate is an essential tumor impacting guys inside USA. The possibility regarding obtaining prostate tumor increases with age, life style and also family history and genealogy. Although irritating you're able to do concerning aging, you could make some changes inside your life-style that will aid together with elimination.

For improved prostate wellness, stay away from foods that contain high fat content, such as meats and milk, that could raise testosterone quantities which enable it to activate prostate cell enhancement and expansion. Reduce consumption of alcohol. Particular foods may also help protect against prostate cancer and decrease the growth.

Exercising is critical for prostate wellness. It helps increase blood flow and circulation towards the prostate gland. Additionally, it can aid in food digestion including the removal of waste materials. Exercising also aids to keep the excess weight off as obesity leads to a raised threat. Be sure to get sufficient rest as well. It assist with stress levels and enable the body to fix itself.

Early assessment and diagnosis is vital, due to the fact success rates are extremely high once the cancer is in the initial phases and limited to the prostate. Males 50 plus ought to get yearly screenings. Although prostate cancer in males younger than 50 is uncommon, men having a family background of prostate cancer should start testing at age 40.

High intensity focused ultrasound is one of the present day prostate cancer remedies HIFU is utilized to get rid of cancer abnormal growths with pinpoint accuracy. The technique is non-invasive and also non-surgical, utilizing computerized imaging and handled by particularly competent urological professionals. The treatment typically takes approximately 120 to 150minutes and time to recuperate is significantly faster when compared with other treatments. The success is related to conventional therapy methods, like surgery and radiation, though with less side effects. HIFU from Urology Health Solutions, Inc. has offered hope for millions of patients out there in the world.

Considered to be second known cancer among America's male populace, prostate cancer can now be treated using HIFU treatment by an experienced Urology Health Solutions, Inc. doctor. In addition to surgery, radiation therapy and chemotherapy, high frequency ultrasound energy treatment has been tried and tested in its efficacy to cure localized prostate cancer since it was conceived. If you or a loved one is planning to indulge in one, here are important tips to follow in preparation for the extensive treatment.

Proper guidance is an important factor in the success of HIFU. With this, consulting with a reputable oncologist-urologist and surgeon will help you understand what specific factors must be taken into mind prior to the purported plan to undergo such procedure. With four to five hours of extensive high frequency ultrasound energy treatment, it is essential to make sure that you are ready physically to absorb the treatment and recovery process. Factors such as diet and medical condition must be carefully monitored to guarantee efficacy.

One of the most common side effects of prostate cancer high-freq ultrasound energy treatment is urinary incontinence. This can actually be remedied by proper exercise a week before therapy. Kegels, walking and lower abdominal control can help return bladder control when done correctly. Some patients usually undergo training from registered physical therapist to prepare their internal system from other physical side effects as well. This will be continued during recovery period or as advised by your physical therapist.

A healthy diet is another important aspect to put attention to in preparation for treatment. Eating food that can boost immune system and healing requires special diet even after therapy. Antioxidants-rich foods like those belonging to the yellow and orange food group are known to enhance immunity while protein-rich food promotes fast healing. Avoiding food that increases inflammatory response is also advisable. Alcohol is a definite no.

Psychological readiness is another important aspect that must be looked upon before therapy. There is something sinister about cancer treatment that put fear in every patient's mind. Tapping their consciousness as well as presenting to them the possibilities they might encounter will help gear them in fighting the disease and understanding effects of the treatment. Some patients are required to go counseling to guarantee soundness of mind when being treated. Some usually extends this until full recovery.

Along with mental preparedness, emotional preparedness is also important. This should involve the people around the patients, too. Spouses and children must understand what the therapy is all about and its various consequences. Gearing each member of the household where the patient is cohabiting is significant in understanding the underlying circumstances of his condition.

Bowel preparation must also be done at home a day before your scheduled procedure. Breakfast should be light and clear fluids like water should be part and parcel of your diet. You are not allowed any intake solid or liquid two hours before admission. An enema is usually given to relieve the gut of all waste as various tests will be done. Skin tests will be given so be ready for a little sting.

Preparation is very important in every aspect in life. Gearing oneself with the right mindset, emotion and physical condition is essential in achieving an effective treatment. The key in attaining this quest usually starts with a patient's choice of specialist who can guide him all throughout his ordeal up to recovery. By choosing a HIFU specialist from Urology Health Solutions, Inc. patients know that they are in good hands.
 

Some exciting new developments have arisen on the benefits of high–intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU) as recent research has found a positive relationship between the long term reduction of treatment-related side effects compared to older prostate cancer treatment options such as Cryoablation.

HIFU is an exciting and innovative option for men with prostate cancer who unfortunately have suffered through unsuccessful results with curative therapy of organ-confined prostate cancer. In this new form of therapy the operator is able to customize the level of intensity of the treatment which is a big advantage as it reduces the damage caused with traditional methods of hurting the surrounding tissue.

Through the use of powerful and state-of-the-art equipment such as the Sonablate 500, operators have been able to achieve this level of precision and customization.

Compared to other forms of therapy, the lasers utilized (Sonablate 500) eradicate the cancer with high blasts of heat while traditional methods such as Cryoablation use extreme cold to remove tissue. The heat is only applied through laser beams with pure precision to the affected area and nothing extra. This reduces the discomfort and risk of having traditional cold methods harm surrounding tissue which was a common dilemma.

The Sonablate 500 laser heats up to approximately 195 degrees Fahrenheit in temperature; the perfect number in order to destroy the cancerous tissue. Pain is instantly reduced during the procedure as this mechanism also simultaneously releases a cooling and pain-reducing agent.

In a recent study by Lancet Oncology (April 17, 2012), 42 patients were given HIFU treatments utilizing the Sonablate 500. The results were impressive; within 6 months 39 of those men were brought back for a biopsy to check on the results, and of those 39 men, 36 were completely free of any clinically significant cancer. At 12 months, the last few men were retreated and found to not have any clinically significant cancer. Thus bringing the total to 39 of 39 for eradication of clinically significant cancer in 12 months of treatment.

In addition to the reduction of cancer, decreases in related side effects were also shown. As the study exhibits, in the 12 months following high intensity focused ultrasound treatment, the trial patients all returned to urinary and erectile function as before. Only 10% exhibited poor erections and none of the men dealt with urine leakage which had been a common side effect in traditional treatments.

These figures are much better than traditional statistics in which side effects such as erectile dysfunction, urinary leakage, and others were found more often and lasted longer.

These results are sprucing up more interest and actions on further in-depth studies to provide more concrete evidence of the superiority of HIFU treatment over alternative traditional methods.

In summary, the latest studies have provided evidence that high intensity focused ultrasounds are able to significantly lower the prostate specific antigens in the majority of men who had previously underwent the traditional route of curative interventional therapy for organ-confined cancer. This new technology is showing a dramatic reduction in the number of men with prostate cancer, and it is decreasing the side effects associated with prostate cancer treatments.

Prostate cancer patients now have a new and possibly more powerful option to treat their cancer. HIFU is gaining more acceptance as the positive results of the procedure are presented to the public.

HIFU is a medical procedure that stands for High Intensity Focused Ultrasound. It is a type of cancer treatment that is now increasingly being used by doctors in Europe, Australia, Israel, America and the United States.

HIFU is a process that destroys damaged or diseased tissues using high-intensity focused sonic energy. It is performed by urologists for the treatment of prostate cancer. A special machine is used that gives off high-frequency rays that reaches the cancer and kills the cancerous cells.

The Method

The technique is simple. The machine sends acoustic waves that propagate through the tissue, reaching the affected area. The rays are focused in these two ways:

• Geometrically

By using a lens or a spherically curved transducer, beams can be focused geometrically to reach the area properly.

• Electronically

The beam can be forwarded to different locations by adjusting the phases of elements in an array of the transducers.

The Uses

HIFU is used to treat many kinds of cancers, such as

• Kidney cancer

• Primary and secondary liver cancer

• Prostate cancer

• Bladder cancer

• Pancreatic cancer

Currently, HIFU is only used for research and clinical purposes, as it is not approved by the medical authorities in the U.S. and most of the other countries. HIFU is mostly used in the treatment of prostate cancer, but other types of cancers can also be treated by it.

HIFU is not suitable for:

• Brain tumors

• Lung cancer

• Head and neck cancers

• Pelvic cancers

• Cancer that spread to lymph nodes

• Skin cancers

Other Uses

• It is also used to deliver medication to the brain. It is temporarily used to open the blood-brain barrier to send medicines to the brain.

• It is also used to treat arrhythmia and atrial fibrillation. The method is approved in Europe and is undergoing trials in the U.S.

• It is also used to treat patients suffering from uterine fibroids. It is an approved treatment and is being increasingly used in this field now.

The Advantages

• Since it only uses the sound waves to treat the cancer, it has fewer side effects relatively and is more useful in treating cancers.

• It is very useful for people who cannot undergo surgery due to health issues or other reasons.

• It can also easily be conducted neatly and does not result in the destruction of healthy cells.

The Disadvantages

• Since this is still a relatively new technique and more is yet to be found out about it, not much is known about the side effects. People who have been treated with this procedure mostly complain of pain for 3-4 days and soreness around the affected area. But then again, this is normal and not something to be extremely concerned about.

• It is believed that HIFU can also have negative effects on healthy cells if not used properly. If the beam reaches healthy cells, then they might also be destroyed along with destroyed or infected cells. However, proper usage, knowledge and experience greatly reduce this problem.

• Another disadvantage is the fact that not much is known about this treatment yet. Chinese doctors were the first ones to try this successfully and then trials moved to different countries in Europe, and now research is being conducted in countries like America, Israel and Australia.

HIFU has made it easier for doctors to save lives and improve the lives of their patients. Research is currently ongoing on HIFU and hopefully it will be used in more procedures soon.

Searching for a HIFU Doctor can be quite a challenging task if you do not know how to go about it. Prostate cancer is increasing in its prevalence in men, particularly in men over 50 years of age, and it may be time for you to address the possibility of you getting prostate cancer.

If you are a male over 50 years old you need to seriously consider getting tested for prostate cancer by a HIFU Doctor. Among the first issues to consider is if you are ready to confront the real possibility that you may have prostate cancer. This is the first step in the right direction toward getting help and securing your health and future.

A HIFU Doctor can perform a biopsy or another type of procedure to determine if you have prostate cancer and what your risks are for possibly obtaining prostate cancer. Once you make the correct decision that you are ready to be tested for prostate cancer, then you need to go about finding a HIFU Doctor in your area.

First ask your male family or friends in the central Florida region if they know a Urologist whom they personally have been to and can recommend them to you. It’s always best to ask them first, as family and friends often provide the best referrals based on their own experience with that physician.

If you do not have any male family or friends that can recommend a Urologist to you, then consult with your current practitioner to see if they may be able to recommend a Doctor to you. Often they will know a network of Doctors who they work with or are associated with who may be able to assist you with your prostate cancer needs.

If these first two options don’t work out, your next best choice would be to ask your health insurance company. Ask them for a list of HIFU Doctors that are on their list of preferred providers, and how to go about contacting them. If your insurance company does not have any central Florida Urologists on their preferred provider list, ask them what their policy is for seeing Doctors not on their preferred provider list.

If you have not been able to find a Urologist by now, the next step you can take is to Google “Orlando HIFU Doctor” and start contacting their physician offices in your area. You need to make sure that they are affordable and that they offer High Intensity Focused Ultrasound treatment, just in case you are found to have prostate cancer. HIFU is a minimally invasive procedure that uses focused sound wave energy to eliminate cancer cells without an incision or blood loss.

Finding a Urologist is a very important step in resolving the potential issue of you having prostate cancer. You need to feel very comfortable in their presence and feel that they are truly on your side and with you every step of the way.

If you would like to meet with us, Dr. Lotenfoe is one of the foremost recognized HIFU specialists in the southeastern United States. His experience and personal care for his patients is second to none.

The prostate gland is extremely important within the inner workings of the male reproductive system. However, according to the National Institute of Health, there are a number of medical conditions known to affect the prostate, including prostatitis, benign prostatic hyperplasia, or even prostate cancer. An Orlando prostate cancer treatment facility always promotes a nutritious diet that will enhance the health of one’s prostate and prevent the formation of prostate-related diseases, including prostate cancer, which would need Orlando prostate cancer treatments. Foods to avoid include salty foods, refined sugars, processed foods, bottled salad dressings, alcohol, coffee, soda, and hydrogenated and saturated fats (except for sesame oil and olive oil, which are okay, all the others may exacerbate growth of any malignant cells).

Fruits and vegetables are rich in a variety of essential nutrients, including antioxidants and fiber. The University of Maryland Medical Center makes the suggestion that fresh fruits and vegetables need to be incorporated into a diet for anyone looking to promote prostate health. The Orlando prostate cancer center recommends cruciferous vegetables, such as cabbage, cauliflower, and broccoli as they are associated with lowering the risk of cancer. Berries, leafy green vegetables, tomatoes, and watermelon should also be incorporated because of their high levels of antioxidants. Other fruits that are extremely rich in antioxidants include grapefruit, oranges, mangos, kiwi, cantaloupe, papaya, plums, mangos, and red grapes. Other vegetables known for their high levels of antioxidants include sweet potatoes, winter squash, red bell peppers, and carrots.

The Medical Center at the University of Maryland has also stated that regularly consuming fish can decrease the incidence of prostate cancer. For those undergoing Orlando prostate cancer treatments, fish can help bolster the effect of the treatment. Omege-3 fatty acid-rich fish, such as tuna, salmon, and sardines boosts the strength of cells, making them able to combat diseases and infections much better, making the body a lot healthier. Omega-3 is also linked to reducing and even preventing inflammation that is often associated with a number of prostate-related medical conditions. It is advocated to eat around three ounces of fish between two and three times per week.

Whole grains and bran are also highly recommended. Because whole grains contain all the various nutritional components associated with the original plant, they provide much more nutrients, protein, and fiber than refined grains. Bran especially is beneficial because it is very rich in fiber. In the October 2010 publication of the “Journal of Nutrition,” it was stated that eating whole grain bran can reduce the growth of tumors in men who suffer from prostate cancer. In this study 17 patients with prostate cancer were asked to eat whole grain and rye products, or eat refined wheat products for a period of six weeks. Those male patients that ate the whole grains had a greater reduction in tumor size than those men who ate the refined grains. The researchers suspected that this added benefit comes from the beneficial impact that whole grains have on a person’s blood sugar levels. Men should try to incorporate whole grains whenever they can, including in bread, cereals, and pasta, rather than products that have white flour or enriched wheat.

Lastly, men should look into eating more sources of lean protein. Sources of protein high in fat, especially saturated fat, such as whole milk, processed meats, as well as fatty red meat, can actually hinder the health of the prostate and increase the risk of generating a prostate-related disease. Men should eat more protein from lean sources, such as egg whites, poultry (especially the white meat), beans, lentils, and low-fat dairy products, like yogurt and milk.

Women have always had a number of contraceptive options to choose from, while men only have ever had really one option provided to them, which are condoms. Those couples wanting a strong form of birth control have had to rely on women and the use of birth control pills to hinder the possibility of unwanted pregnancies. The only contraceptive option previously for men is a permanent one that could not be reversed – a vasectomy. However, now there is a brand new male contraceptive device that only takes up to 15 minutes to implant, does not require any cutting and is a completely reversible procedure. Known as Pro-Vas, it is the very first male contraceptive procedure widely available. It calls for implanting a very small titanium spring clip in the vas deferens to stop the flow of sperm to the prostate, where it will mix with the semen. While sperm will still be produced in the testicles, it will not make its way through the vas deferens. Rather, the sperm ends up absorbed throughout the body.

There are a number of significant benefits associated with Pro-Vas aside from being a very reliable form of birth control without the associated pain and irreversibility of a traditional vasectomy. There is little to no post-procedural pain associated with Pro-Vas and it is a much quicker procedure than a vasectomy. It is very non-invasive as there is no general anesthesia involved and men can leave same day. There are no associated complications like vasectomy and the recovery time is much quicker, allowing men to return to their normal everyday activities a lot quicker. Unlike a vasectomy, Pro-Vas can be reversible through a standard procedure known as a vasovasostomy.

Prior to electing to undergo the Pro-Vas procedure, men should first speak to their loved ones as it is a very important decision. If men no longer want to worry about unplanned pregnancies and want to stop dealing with temporary methods of birth control, the Pro-Vas procedure can be extremely beneficial. Pro-vas does not affect erections, sex drive, climax sensation, quality of sperm, the scrotum, or the testicles. Many men state that by undergoing the Pro-Vas procedure, they have been able to increase the spontaneity in their sexual relationship, something they were unable to do beforehand.

One thing that men need to keep in mind is that they will not be sterile as soon as the Pro-Vas procedure is done. Therefore, they will need to continue using an alternative type of birth control. Many doctors that perform this procedure say that men need to wait up to three months after the device is implanted as the body still needs to get rid of the sperm that is still in the system, namely the prostate. Many medical professionals will offer to do a sperm check at weeks six and twelve post procedure. These checks see if there is still any sperm left and if the device is working and will remain a viable form of contraceptive

At an Orlando, Florida-based Urological Center, well-known Urologist Dr. Richard Lotenfoe is now offering male patients wanting a vasectomy a non-invasive option – No Scalpel No Needle Vasectomy.

A vasectomy includes cutting the vasa deferentia, the small tubes transporting sperm to the prostate from the testicles where it is stored until ejaculation. Once a man undergoes a vasectomy, men still have the ability to climax but there will be no sperm in their semen. “Men tend to be nervous about traditional vasectomies because of short term complications, like hematomas and long-term chronic pain, known as post-vasectomy pain syndrome, which can be quite debilitating,” said Dr. Lotenfoe. “At my clinic we aim to give men the choice to have a vasectomy, but have it done in a way that is relatively painless and comes without any inherent risks.”

The No Scalpel No Needle Vasectomy has become quite popular with its numerous advantages over the conventional vasectomy. It is a quick outpatient procedure where there are no large incisions (just a small puncture that can be covered with a regular band-aid).
Other advantages include:

• Quicker recovery time
• Takes much less time to complete
• Less pain and discomfort experienced after the procedure
• Much safer than traditional vasectomies in terms of bleeding and infections

The No Scalpel No Needle Vasectomy will not affect the sex life of a man, including his sex drive and his ability to get and sustain an erection when sexually aroused. Dr. Lotenfoe pointed out that many of his clients actually state that their sex life is much better after the No Scalpel No Needle Vasectomy because there are no inherent fears of getting pregnant.

Dr. Lotenfoe reminds men, “Just because you have had a vasectomy, does not mean you are instantly sterile. You still have sperm stored in the prostate. At our clinic, we recommend men still use some form of protection at least six to eight weeks after the initial procedure. However, they can always come to us when they want to test their semen to see if there are still sperm present.”

If men are interested in the No Scalpel No Needle Vasectomy, they are welcome to make an appointment with Dr. Lotenfoe, hear all about it, and ask any questions they may have. When it comes to men’s health and wellness, Dr. Lotenfoe maintains an open door policy.
 

Through the evolution of modern medicine, medical physicians have now come up with a new prostate cancer treatment known in many circles as HIFU, which stands for high intensity focused ultrasound. This new technology assists men suffering from prostate cancer by getting rid of all cancer infected tissue in the prostate region using an advanced acoustic ablation method that utilizes the powers of an ultrasound. This technology locates the infected area with pinpoint accuracy. The infected area is targeted using sound waves allowing HIFU to elevate the tissue’s temperature, making the tissue breakdown and consequently eliminating the cancer.

Numerous physicians are now recommending HIFU to their prostate cancer patients due to the limited number of harmful side effects associated with the procedure. HIFU offers patients a procedure that is controlled and precise, thereby limiting side effects, such as erectile dysfunction and incontinence, which are common with other treatments for prostate cancer. A prostate cancer patient only needs to devote up to three hours for this procedure and may leave mere hours after the procedure it done. They just have to wait for the anesthesia used to minimize discomfort to wear off. HIFU is non-ionizing and does not utilize radiation. Therefore, HIFU treatment can be used on a number of occasions without damaging healthy tissue. Due to this, physicians use HIFU when they do not see successful results using other prostate cancer treatments.

The Sonablate 500 is possibly the most well known HIFU therapy option utilized for the treatment of prostate cancer. It is currently used in a number of hospitals and clinics around the world. It is controlled through a computer and delivers the HIFU energy directed right at the infected area via a small rectal probe. Through this action, all tissue infected by cancer is eliminated. Through the use of integrated biplanar ultrasound imaging, relating planning and monitoring is offered throughout the duration of the treatment, as well as images both before and after of the entire infected region.

To understand how the HIFU system works, think about what happens when the sun’s rays are focused through a magnifying lens. HIFU offers the same type of precision focusing through the use of ultrasound energy. By focusing this ultrasound energy on the infected area, the temperature of that area is raised, killing the tissue. At the same time, unaffected areas remain unharmed and their temperature remains unchanged. Once the procedure is complete, the physician has the ability to monitor the location of the precise lesion. The HIFU system also helps the physician determine a course of action to treat and locate the infected areas. The high imaging resolution is just one of the many reasons why many physicians utilize HIFU and the Sonablate 500 in particular. It provides the opportunity to identify all vital structures located around the prostate, including the neurovascular bundles, seminal vesicles, and rectal wall, ensuring only the targets areas are treated, preventing unnecessary damage.

The requirement of the patient before the treatment can begin is to undergo two enemas before the treatment can commence. Patients also undergo light anesthesia to ensure the patient remains still during the procedure as even small movements can cause damage. The rectal probe uses ultrasound waves to also provide-time images to the physician of the complete area, offering immediate and detailed feedback. Once the procedure is complete, patients only need a few hours to recover and in just a few days, patients are able to go back to their life.

The Sonablate 500 for HIFU (high intensity focused ultrasound) has been utilized for prostate cancer treatment by Dr. Richard Lotenfoe, who has offices outside of Orlando, Florida. The Sonblate 500 is a minimal invasive treatment technique using a transrectal probe to ensure focus of ultrasound waves on the prostate, to a targeted and precise location. It raises the temperature, causes the tissue to break down, treating the entire prostate. HIFU using the Sonablate 500 takes at most four hours and is considered an out-patient procedure. There are numerous benefits associated with this treatment method, which makes it one of the most utilized HIFU methods currently available.

There is no surgery required with then Sonablate 500 is used. It is currently the only HIFU treatment device that can treat a maximum of 50 CC prostate without the use of an invasive procedure. Because of the design of the Sonablate 500’s probe as well as the transducer’s focal lengths, it offers a therapy zone of 120 degrees. This provides the physician with immediate access to the whole prostate gland with no need to reposition or move the probe. This makes it an out-patient procedure without the need for overnight hospital stay.

Superior imaging is offered by the Sonablate 500. This machine offers reference and real-time images that enable the physician to receive immediate feedback that can be used for maximum precision. The images provided to the physician allow them to plan a custom HIFU treatment. Through the use of three-dimensional imaging, it is possible to accurately plan treatment for the targeted areas.

Possibly one of the biggest worries with any of these types of treatments is the possibility of causing impotency. However, the Sonblate 500’s integrated software and hardware identifies blood flow throughout the neurovascular bundles. Physicians can locate all neurovascular bundles that are associated with potency, avoiding damage to these nerves. Men who have been treated with the Sonblate 500 have fewer problems associated with erectile dysfunction.

Physicians are able to adjust the power throughout the duration of HIFU treatment in areas such as nerve bundles and in close proximity to the rectum. This power adjustment feature provides additional safety and the customization of the HIFU treatment. Other machines do not offer power adjustment capabilities, meaning that all patients are treated with the exact same power level, which is not an ideal situation. Furthermore, the physician has more control over the placement and position of the probe. They are able to adjust it to ensure optimal outcomes as well as comfort. Other probes offer only limited control because they remain fixed to the treatment table. The Sonablate 500 offers a full hands-on approach to the procedure.

Lastly, the Sonablate 500 for HIFU for prostate cancer treatment is quite possibly the most accurate treatment currently available. It can treat the entire prostate area in a number of different overlapping zones. Only small lesions are produced that are very precise. The legions made by the Sonablate 500 are smaller than any other treatment of this variety.
 

When a loved one has Prostate Cancer it can be very stressful on a family.  Families must educate themselves about the healthcare resources and the different kinds of support they have available when someone they love is diagnosed with Prostate Cancer.  Stress can take over our body and minds when we find ourselves in helpless situations and it can be difficult to cope with these emotions over a period of time.  If you look at the “top 10 stressful events of life,” Illness is number 6.  Studies show that spouses/partners suffer just as much-if not more--- stress then their men with prostate cancer.  Communication, support and knowledge of possible procedures that may be performed in the future are things that one’s spouse/partner and family should consider and talk about to help with the stress they may be going through.
Communication between women and men is hard enough.  It is important for couples and families to work together in their communication to reduce the stress levels one may experience while dealing with someone with prostate cancer.  When you add depression and treatment side effects that often follow a diagnosis of prostate cancer, the level of stress can go off the charts for a lot of people.  Talk to your spouse and other family members with an open mind and an understanding of how the other person feels. Whether or not you yourself has prostate cancer or a loved one, talk to each other about the situation with an open mind and understanding and it will greatly reduce the stress level for everyone.
Support groups for wives and partners are available now more than ever for people dealing with prostate cancer.  We encourage you to take advantage of these as much as possible.  Talking with someone who really understands what you’re going through may help to relieve some of your greatest fears and worries.  Online communities for wives and partners are available to you without having to leave the comfort of your own home. Once you become a member, and most are free, you can view, reply and join in conversations with other people that are or already have experienced what you may be going through.
 

DONATED HEALTH SCREENINGS TO BENEFIT LOCAL COMMUNITY

ORLANDO, FL – A health fair with screenings to benefit the local community is being hosted Saturday, May 7, 2011, from 9 am until 1 pm, at the College Park Baptist Church, 1914 Edgewater Drive, Orlando. A voluntary $10 donation is requested which includes all screenings.

?This is the second year that the Rotary Club of Orlando Evening, led by member Richard Lotenfoe, MD of the Central Florida Prostate Care Center, and the Health Ministry of the College Park Baptist Church will host this event. All donations will benefit the Health Care Center for the Homeless.?

This year’s enlarged health fair includes prostate screenings by Dr. Lotenfoe; diabetes screenings by Lions Diabetes Awareness Foundation of MD 35, Inc; glaucoma screenings by Dr. James Podschun; and chiropractic screenings and chair massages by Park Lake Chiropractic.?

A group of Rotary and church volunteers are donating their time for this important cause.  The event is open to all persons in the community.?

To schedule a time for the screening or for more information, contact Kollin Yelensky at 407-584-7771.?Rotary International, the world’s largest service organization, is a global network of community volunteers comprised of business and professional leaders, who provide humanitarian service, encourage high ethical standards and help build goodwill and peace in the world.

?Contact for more information:  ?Kollin Yelensky by cell at 407.584-7771 or This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it

The prevailing study analyzed the lack of prognostic knowledge regarding the abandonment of Gleason score (GS) 2-4 by the International Society of Urological Pathology (ISUP-2005).

Within a ten-year period ahead of the modification of GS, 856 patients (mean age 64.2 years) underwent radical prostatectomy (RP). The grade of agreement between GS in biopsy and definitive histology was calculated by Kappa statistics (k). Grades are in accordance with the level to which the epithelium assumes an ordinary glandular structure. A grade of 1 indicates a near-normal pattern, and grade 5 indicates the absence of any glandular pattern (less malignant to more malignant). This scheme of grading histological features greatly depends on the skill and experience of the pathologist and is subject to a few degree of character variation. Univariable and multivariable outcomes of different preoperatively available parameters on disease-free survival (DFS) were assessed. The mean follow-up period was 39 months.

Concordance amongst GS in biopsy versus RP samples was 58% (k-value 0.354) and was improved by an increased collection of biopsy cores. Undergrading in biopsy was present in 38% and never significantly enhanced by a longer time-period between biopsy and RP (threshold 90d). PSA level, clinical tumour stage, fraction of sure cores (dichotomized at 34%), cases of RP per year and establishment (dichotomized at 75), and GS alone influenced DFS. An upgrading to GS ≥ 7 was found in only 5.7% of patients presenting with GS 2-4 within the biopsy. Free from ultimate histology, patients with GS 2-4 had a significantly better prognosis in comparison to patients with a higher GS.

The present analyze shows an independent prognostic result of GS in biopsy samples categorized in response to the previous classification. The removal of GS 2-4 by the ISUP 2005 ends up in a substantial deficit of pretherapeutic prognostic facts and thus need being questioned particularly with reference to the increasing demand for active surveillance regimens. Men with PSA levels less than 10 ng/mL and low- or moderate-grade histology (Gleason score <7) with no findings or minimal findings on actual examination would possibly proceed to surgery or brachytherapy without further research. Men with PSA levels more than 10 ng/mL, high-grade histology (Gleason score ≥ 7), or physical findings that suggest stage T3 disease should possibly undergo a staging CT scanning and bone scan. The CT scanning can be used to evaluate extension into the bladder and lymph nodes to support stage the patient's cancer or to consider lymph node sampling prior to treatment.
 

Men who have tried External Beam Radiation Therapy (EBRT) or Interstitial Brachytherapy for clinically localized prostate cancer possess a 20-30% greater probability of having prostate-specific antigen (PSA) failure. Salvage therapy is indicated when men are treated with radiotherapy, brachytherapy, or a combination of these for presumed localized prostate cancer and have a recurrence. The success rates after salvage procedures are considerably less than those that have been reported after more fundamental treatments. The results of the use of HIFU as a salvage therapy for patients with recurrent prostate cancer have been good, with negative biopsy rates as elevated as 80% and 61% achieving a PSA nadir of <0.5 µg/L (n = 71); 44% were reported as freed from biochemical relapse at the follow up exam, at an average follow-up of 14.8 (6-86) months.

To analyze the usage of high-intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU) as a salvage therapy in patients with a recurrence of localized prostate cancer after external beam radiation (EBRT), brachytherapy, or proton therapy, the charts of all patients who had undergone salvage HIFU for biopsy-proven prostate cancer after primary radiation therapy, were reviewed retrospectively. Patient characteristics and oncological effects were assessed.

Records of 22 patients with a median (range) follow-up of 24 (5-80) months were reviewed. Patients were men with presumed organ-confined disease who were treated with salvage HIFU following recurrent disease after EBRT (fourteen patients), brachytherapy (five patients: four with high-dose brachytherapy using In (192); and one with low-dose brachytherapy applying Au (98)) or proton therapy (three patients). The median (range) age at salvage HIFU was 65 (52-80) years, with a median (range) prostate-specific antigen (PSA) level before radiation therapy of 14.3 (5.7-118) ng/mL and an average (range) PSA level of 4.0 (1.2-30.1) ng/mL before HIFU. The median (range) period to HIFU after radiation therapy was 36 (4-96) months. The biochemical disease-free survival (bDFS) rate in all patients at 5 years was 52%. Rates of bDFS in low-, intermediate- and high-risk groups were 100%, 86%, and 14%, respectively. One among the twelve patients who received post-HIFU prostate biopsy showed malignancy. Side effects included urethral stricture in four patients, grade I urinary incontinence in four patients, rectourethral fistula and epididymitis in one of each patient.

This preliminary data recommend that high intensity focused ultrasound represents a legitimate alternative treatment strategy for patients with localized prostate cancer. Salvage HIFU is often a promising treatment option for local recurrence after radiation therapy, with morbidity comparable with other types of salvage treatment. A careful choice by the patient is imperative depending upon the aforementioned prognostic factors.
 

Vitamin D is regarded as an important determinant of bone turnover, the balance between bone resorption and formation, as well as cancer growth. Men with higher vitamin D levels have a lower risk of prostate cancer. The association of vitamin D with the risks of prostate cancer has been examined. The effect of vitamin D deficiency on prostate cancer cell growth in bone has been investigated by making use of a murine model of bone metastasis.

Three-week-old male nude mice were fed either normal chow (control) or a diet deficient in vitamin D. The latter diet resulted in severe hypovitaminosis D within 6 weeks. At this point, 5×10(4) cells of the prostate cancer cell line, PC-3, were injected either into the bone marrow (tibia) or subcutaneously into soft tissues. Osteoprotegerin (OPG) was co-administered in subgroups of mice to suppress bone remodeling. Osteolytic lesions were monitored by serial X-ray, and soft tissue tumor growth was measured by caliper. All tissues were analyzed by micro-CT and histology at the end of the experiment.

It was noticed that bone turnover was significantly accelerated in vitamin D deficient mice in comparison to vitamin D sufficient mice from week 6 onwards. Intra-tibially implanted PC-3 cells resulted in mixed osteolytic and osteosclerotic lesion. In the end, osteolytic and osteosclerotic lesions, total number of tumors, and tumor mitotic activity were all significantly increased in vitamin D deficient mice compared to controls. Regardless of diet, OPG reduced bone turnover, total number of tumors, and osteosclerotic area as well as tumor mitotic activity, while promoting cell apoptosis. The findings suggest that vitamin D is effective at reducing metastasis in the progression of prostate cancer. In contrast; vitamin D deficiency did not alter tumor growth in soft tissues.

Vitamin D deficiency enhances both the growth of tumors and the tumor-induced osteosclerotic changes. Vitamin D deficiency stimulates prostate cancer growth in bone through modulating the bone microenvironment. Vitamin D promotes the differentiation of prostate cancer cells, and helps maintain the differentiated phenotype of prostate epithelial cells, and induces prostate cancer cell death
 

Dr. Lotenfoe speaks on WDBO new-talk radio. On March 5th, 2011 Richard R. Lotenfoe, MD was guest speaker on local news – talk radio station in central Florida.   Dr. Lotenfoe covers various things to know about prostate cancer.  Along the conversation subject to, chances you may have, certain procedures and options for different stages of prostate cancer and signs to look out for.  Listeners had the opportunity to call the radio station to talk to Dr. Lotenfoe and ask any questions they had in a segment called ask the doctor.