Types of tumours suitable for HIFU treatment in Oxford

Kidney

Even in the Oxford trials small-volume renal tumours have been destroyed. The Chinese experience indicates that quite large tumours can be treated successfully in their entirety. An important feature of HIFU treatment for a patient who has already lost one kidney, or has poor renal function, lies in the potential for preservation of either one or both kidneys, thus avoiding life-long dialysis.

Liver

Liver tumours may be divided up into those arising in the liver (primary tumours), or those which have spread to the liver from elsewhere (secondary tumours or metastases). Secondary tumours are the commonest type.

There has been a great deal of experience in the treatment of primary liver tumours in Far East. Research has suggested that, for tumours which are not amenable to surgery, treatment with HIFU and embolisation (blocking the blood vessels which feed the tumour) may improve survival when compared to current therapies.

The treatment of secondary tumours has been shown to be feasible based on the work performed in Far East.

Bone and soft tissue

Clinical results have shown that HIFU is a safe, effective and feasible method of treating malignant bone tumours. It has the great advantage that limb salvage may be possible in patients who would otherwise require an amputation. The risk of the affected bone breaking following treatment is increased, therefore extra care is required in the post-therapy period. HIFU may be used alone or in combination with chemotherapy with curative intent. This can be as primary therapy or after failure of conventional treatment. For palliation, HIFU can reduce pain associated with malignancy, and improve quality of life.

Pancreas

A primary tumour in the liver, which is often removed by surgery, may now be suitable for HIFU treatment thus avoiding removal.

The extreme pain and low life expectancy of pancreatic cancer sufferers is well known. In the Far East, patients with pancreatic tumours have been treated with the objective of relieving the pain and symptoms. However, in addition there is evidence that the treatment may prolong life expectancy significantly.