The University of North Carolina (UNC) Department of Urology is proud to announce the launch of a new Focal Therapy Program offering patients with prostate cancer access to High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound (HIFU), an innovative, minimally invasive treatment option designed to precisely target cancer while preserving healthy tissue and quality of life.
The program will be led by Zach Feuer, MD, Assistant Professor of Urology and fellowship-trained urologic oncologist. Dr. Feuer brings specialized expertise in prostate cancer diagnostics and treatment, with a strong focus on personalized, patient-centered care.
“Focal therapy represents a promising treatment approach for carefully selected men with prostate cancer. By using advanced imaging and precise, targeted energy, we can treat just the area of the prostate containing cancer, potentially reducing side effects while maintaining cancer control.”
Zach Feuer, MD
Assistant Professor of Urology
What is Focal Therapy and Why It Matters
Traditional treatments for prostate cancer, such as radical prostatectomy (surgical removal of the prostate) or whole-gland radiation, treat the entire prostate gland. While these approaches are highly effective for many patients, they can sometimes lead to side effects, including changes in urinary and sexual function.
Focal therapy, by contrast, takes a precision-medicine approach. Using advanced imaging techniques like multiparametric MRI and real-time ultrasound guidance, HIFU allows physicians to target and ablate only the cancerous portion of the prostate. This approach can offer significant benefits for certain patients, including:
- Lower risk of urinary incontinence and preservation of urinary control.
- Reduced impact on sexual function, with a lower likelihood of erectile dysfunction.
- Minimally invasive outpatient procedure with shorter recovery time and no incisions.
- The potential for future treatments if needed, including repeat focal therapy or traditional whole-gland treatments.
Who is a Candidate for Focal Therapy?
Focal therapy is not a one-size-fits-all treatment. It is best suited for men with localized, intermediate-risk prostate cancer where the cancer is confined to a specific area of the prostate. Candidates are carefully selected based on imaging, biopsy results, and overall health.
“It’s important for patients to understand that focal therapy is one of several options for managing prostate cancer,” Dr. Feuer explained. “Our goal is to help each individual make an informed decision by reviewing the full spectrum of treatments and determining whether focal therapy is appropriate for their unique situation.”
UNC’s Commitment to Innovation and Patient Care
The launch of this program reflects UNC Urology’s commitment to cutting-edge cancer care and personalized treatment planning. The focal therapy program will be closely integrated with UNC’s multidisciplinary prostate cancer team, ensuring patients receive comprehensive and coordinated care.
“This is an exciting advancement for our patients and our community,” said Dr. Feuer. “By offering focal therapy, we’re expanding the range of options available for men with prostate cancer, helping them achieve the best outcomes with the least disruption to their lives.”
To Learn More
If you or a loved one are interested in learning more about these procedures or related urologic topics, you may visit our website’s Patient Care section, or meet with a provider by contacting one of our UNC Urology clinic locations.
About Our Ahead of the Curve Series
Our “Ahead of the Curve” blog series highlights the latest and most effective treatments and techniques in patient care at UNC Urology. Urology is a complex and rapidly evolving field, with new advancements and breakthroughs constantly emerging. In this series, we will explore a range of topics related to innovative approaches to providing outstanding patient care, including advanced surgical procedures, new and improved diagnostic techniques, and innovative medical therapies. Our goal is to provide you with an overview of the excellence and innovation happening right here at UNC Urology.