The Company has developed the Ablatherm, an ultrasound-guided HIFU device for the treatment of organ-confined prostate cancer. The Ablatherm consists of a treatment module, a control table with a computer and a computer screen, and a diagnostic ultrasound device connected to the treatment module.

Mounted on the module is a motorized and computer-driven treatment head. It is movable in three dimensions and integrates a piezoelectric therapeutic applicator and a conventional diagnostic ultrasound scanner for treatment planning. The therapeutic applicator has the shape and size of a tablespoon and can twist in the rectal ampulla up to 45 degrees laterally to allow the isocentric motorized insertion of the transrectal ultrasound (TRUS) scanner.

The targeted prostatic volume is localized with the biplan ultrasound imaging probe.		High-energy ultrasound waves are focused through the rectal wall to the targeted prostate area.

After insertion of the endorectal probe, the physician visualizes the prostate and defines the area to be treated. The computer automatically calculates the optimum distribution of lesions. During the treatment, the transducer automatically moves and fires at each pre-defined lesion until the entire volume has been treated. Cell destruction by HIFU is accomplished by a combination of thermal and cavitation effects caused by focused application of piezoelectric-generated high-intensity ultrasound. The procedure is generally performed under spinal anesthesia.

More information about the Company's HIFU division, click here