Welbeck urologist performs hospital's first non-invasive prostate ablation procedure using revolutionary system.
Private Hospital Welbeck London has announced it has successfully performed its first non-invasive treatment for localised prostate cancer, marking a significant step forward in patient care.
Urologist Professor Hashim Ahmed performed the prostate ablation procedure using the Focal One® Robotic Focal HIFU system.
Professor Ahmed can now offer men diagnosed with localised prostate cancer this innovative treatment option, which minimises the risk of major side effects such as erectile dysfunction, urinary incontinence, and penile shortening — complications commonly associated with radical prostatectomy and radiation therapy, the current standards of care for early-stage prostate cancer.
"The latest generation of Focal One technology represents an important advancement in precision focal therapy,” said Professor Ahmed.
“Its combination of robotic precision, advanced imaging integration, and targeted treatment planning allows us to better identify and treat clinically significant prostate cancer while minimising impact on surrounding healthy tissue. This technology will support Welbeck’s mission of an international centre of excellence in focal therapy for prostate cancer.”
Focal One is a non-invasive, outpatient procedure that destroys only the diseased portion of the prostate while preserving the surrounding healthy tissue. A clinician performs the treatment using a transrectal probe that they insert through a natural body opening, so no incisions are needed.
The Focal One Robotic Focal HIFU procedure usually takes 60 to 90 minutes, and patients can typically go home the same day, potentially with no significant side effects. Unlike surgery or radiation therapy, Focal One can be repeated if necessary and does not preclude future treatment with surgery or radiation.
A recent study demonstrated that Focal One Robotic Focal HIFU provides oncological control comparable to radical prostatectomy while significantly reducing functional side effects. This large prospective study, involving more than 3,000 patients across 46 centres, showed superior urinary continence and erectile function outcomes compared with surgery.
Until now, men diagnosed with localised prostate cancer have generally had three primary treatment options:
Urologists closely monitor disease progression, as prostate cancer is often slow growing. However, this approach may cause anxiety for patients who prefer treatment after diagnosis.
These treatments involve removing or irradiating the entire prostate and are associated with significant risks of side effects, including urinary incontinence, erectile dysfunction, and penile shortening.
Urologists have long looked for a way to treat only the cancerous part of the prostate — similar to a lumpectomy in breast cancer — in order to reduce treatment-related side effects.
Focal One now enables physicians to target the tumour while preserving as much healthy tissue as possible, helping patients maintain their quality of life and reduces major side effects associated with conventional treatments.
A non-invasive, same-day treatment that targets only the tumour and preserves healthy tissue. Led by Professor Hashim Ahmed at our Men's Health Specialist Centre.
Prostate cancer is the most common cancer in men in the UK, affecting around 1 in 8 during their lifetime. It’s also more common in men over fifty, those with a family history of prostate cancer, and those of African or Caribbean heritage.
At Welbeck, we believe that Men’s health isn't just about treating illnesses, but also preventing them. From urological health to mental wellness, we offer comprehensive services that empower men to live longer, healthier lives.
Allow the team at Welbeck to explain the difference between the two so you can evaluate whether you need to see one of our experienced urologists or men’s health specialist consultants.