Technique

As far as the latest generation devices (Ablatherm Integrated Imaging) are concerned, the treatment probe, which is inserted via the rectum, contains therapeutic ultrasound (Figure 1) along with a diagnostic ultrasound (Figure 2), via which the prostate is scanned in and a bilateral image produced in two planes. On the basis of this image, the physician determines the areas to be treated. Once treatment is commenced, high-intensive ultrasound is produced in the transducer and, via the parabolic reflector, focussed on points adjacent to the prostate, thus destroying prostate tissue by thermic heat at temperatures of up to 90°C and mechanical effects (cavitation) in the form of cigar-shaped areas (lesions). The surrounding tissue remains unscathed. By producing a full array of these lesions, an attempt is made to treat the complete prostate. In selected cases, partial treatment of the prostate can also be carried out.

Figure 1)                                                     Figure 2)

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