Patients in New Jersey suffering from localized prostate cancer have a new, in-state option for care, thanks to an innovative procedure offered through Atlantic Health System Cancer Care, according to a recent announcement.
According to the hospital system, using Focal One robotic technology, urologists can now deliver high-intensity, focused ultrasound to remove discrete lesions within the prostate. The first two cases in New Jersey were performed by urologists Dr. Lee Pressler and Dr. Joseph Steinberg.
By combining real-time ultrasound image guidance with magnetic resonance imaging and biopsy data, physicians can robotically control the HIFU energy to treat localized prostate cancer. The guidance technology allows the doctors to directly target only the tumor within the diseased portion of the prostate, sparing the normal prostate tissue. Together, these treatments and targeting technologies minimize side effects and may eliminate the need for surgical prostate removal or radiation.
The procedures took place recently at the brand new, state-of-the-art ambulatory surgery center at Morristown Medical Center Health Pavilion in Rockaway.
Focal One uses advanced targeting technology to precisely isolate diseased prostate tissue for a procedure known as ablation. In an ablation procedure, only a small portion of the prostate is treated, allowing urologists to spare healthy surrounding tissue and minimize side effects.
“We are incredibly proud to be the first in New Jersey to offer this breakthrough, noninvasive focal therapy technology to our prostate cancer patients,” Pam Mestel, executive director, surgical services, at Morristown Medical Center, said. “Combining the latest technological advancements with our nationally recognized clinical excellence is further enhanced by our ability to offer this procedure in a brand-new ambulatory surgery setting.”
Minimizing side effects for prostate cancer patients can mean significant improvements in their quality of life. Traditional treatments for prostate cancer, including surgical prostatectomy and radiation, can result in urinary incontinence and erectile dysfunction.
“What should be most exciting for the patients eligible for this procedure is that through targeted ablation we can target only the cancerous tumor within the prostate. This minimally invasive technique limits side effects associated with more aggressive treatments” Pressler, a urologic oncologist with Garden State Urology, part of Atlantic Medical Group, said.
