FDA Approves Ultrasound Therapy to Treat Prostate Cancer

The FDA has given the green light to Toronto-based Maple Leaf HIFU’s Ablatherm high intensity focused ultrasound therapy for the treatment of prostate cancer in those who have failed radiation therapy.

The nonsurgical, noninvasive device — which has approvals in Europe and Canada — is a single treatment intended for men in stage T-1 or T-2 of organ-confined prostate cancer.

HIFU targets the tumor through a computer-controlled rectal probe, and destroys the prostate tissue with no damage to the surrounding organs.

The treatment can be repeated if necessary and has minimal side effects, according to the company. — Michael Cipriano