Last Updated on October 19, 2021 by Logansport Memorial Hospital
Dr. Stephen Beck is now offering high intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU) for the treatment of organ-confined prostate cancer.
HIFU, or High Intensity Focused Ultrasound, is a minimally-invasive, outpatient treatment for organ-confined prostate cancer. The procedure uses high-power, highly focused ultrasound beams that are targeted to heat and destroy cancerous prostatic tissue. Common side effects in prostate cancer treatment are erectile dysfunction (ED) and urinary incontinence, or the leakage of urine. HIFU significantly decreases the risk of these common side effects in prostate cancer treatment while maintaining the same cure rates as surgery and radiation.
Dr. Beck, a urologic oncologist, is one of three surgeons trained to perform this highly-specialized procedure in
the state of Indiana.
“Through a partnership with American HIFU, we are now able to provide an innovative, advanced prostate
cancer treatment option for patients across Indiana from right here in Logansport,” said Dr. Beck. “The optimal
outcome in managing prostate cancer is first and foremost to cure, while also maintaining sexual function and
urinary control. HIFU offers that trifecta – it can cure organ-confined prostate cancer, which is most important,
while decreasing the risk of side effects that could interfere with a patient’s quality of life.”
He went on to say, “I am very proud to be able to offer HIFU at Logansport Memorial Hospital for patients in
our surrounding counties and across north-central Indiana. I believe that HIFU can cure men with prostate
cancer while helping them maintain the quality of life they want and deserve beyond their cancer diagnosis.”
In 2015, the FDA approved the use of HIFU in the treatment of prostate cancer. The Urology Care Foundation
stated that more than 90% of men newly diagnosed with prostate cancer have localized disease and are
potential candidates for localized treatment options like HIFU, radiation, and surgery. (Source: https://www.urologyhealth.org/healthy-living/urologyhealth-extra/magazine-archives/fall-2017/did-you-know-localized-prostate-cancer)
In Europe and around the world, HIFU has been used to treat more than 65,000 patients with encouraging
results. As of January 1, 2021, HIFU is covered by Medicare with anticipation that private insurers will follow,
as the procedure gains further popularity in treating prostate cancer.
If you have questions about this procedure and whether or not it is a treatment option for you, Dr. Beck is
accepting new patients and can meet with you during a scheduled appointment. Please call LMPN Urology,
inside LMPN Surgical Services, at (574) 753-2222 to make an appointment with Dr. Beck.
SOURCE: News release from Logansport Memorial Hospital