Focal Therapy for Prostate Cancer

What Is Focal Therapy?

Focal therapy is a minimally invasive treatment that targets only the specific area(s) of the prostate where cancer has been detected—not the entire gland. The goal is to destroy cancer cells while preserving healthy prostate tissue, urinary control, and sexual function.

Focal therapy is ideal for men who:

• Have a small, well-defined area of cancer
• Are diagnosed with low- or intermediate-risk prostate cancer 
• Want to avoid overtreatment and its side effects
• Are considering alternatives to full prostatectomy or radiation

Types of Focal Therapy Offered

Dr. Samadi evaluates each patient individually to determine the most appropriate focal therapy approach. Common modalities include:

1. High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound (HIFU)

• Uses targeted ultrasound waves to heat and destroy cancerous tissue
• Outpatient procedure with quick recovery
• Preserves urinary and sexual function in most cases

2. Cryotherapy

• Freezes and destroys cancer cells using precisely guided probes
• May be used for primary treatment or cancer recurrence
• Suitable for select patients with localized disease

3. Focal Laser Ablation (FLA) (Select cases only)

• Delivers laser energy to destroy cancer while guided by MRI
• Minimally invasive and typically performed under sedation
• Ideal for small, localized tumors

Not all patients are eligible for each technique. Dr. Samadi conducts a comprehensive evaluation that may include multiparametric MRI and targeted biopsy before recommending focal treatment.

Benefits of Focal Therapy

Focal therapy offers several potential advantages over full-gland treatment:

Fewer side effects – Lower risk of urinary incontinence and erectile dysfunction
Minimally invasive – Performed on an outpatient basis, often with local anesthesia
Faster recovery – Most patients return to normal activity within days
Repeatable – Can be safely repeated or followed by other treatments if needed
Personalized – Focused only on the affected area, based on advanced imaging

Is Focal Therapy Right for Me?

Focal therapy is most appropriate for men with:

• A Gleason score of 6 or 7 (low- to intermediate-risk cancer)
• Localized prostate cancer confined to a small region
• One or two lesions visible on multiparametric MRI 
• No prior prostate surgery or advanced cancer spread

If you’re unsure whether focal therapy is right for your diagnosis, Dr. Samadi offers comprehensive second opinions to help you make an informed, confident choice.

Focal Therapy vs. Active Surveillance

Some patients with low-risk prostate cancer may be offered active surveillance—a watchful waiting approach without immediate treatment. However, for patients who prefer to treat the cancer early while avoiding the risks of full surgery or radiation, focal therapy offers a middle path.

Dr. Samadi helps patients weigh their options based on:

• Age
• PSA levels and trends
• MRI and biopsy findings
• Overall health and lifestyle goals

Why Choose Dr. Samadi for Focal Therapy?

Dr. Samadi brings unparalleled experience in prostate cancer diagnostics and surgical excellence, offering:

• Over 20 years in urologic oncology
• Access to the latest imaging and diagnostic tools
• Personalized, one-on-one care in a private setting
• Proven outcomes focused on both survival and quality of life
• Transparent guidance on whether focal therapy is your best option

Take Control of Your Prostate Cancer Diagnosis Today

Focal therapy may offer the best of both worlds—effective cancer control with fewer side effects. Dr. David Samadi is here to help you explore all your treatment options with expertise and clarity.

Schedule your consultation today
Call: 212-365-5000