HIFU (High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound) is a non-invasive therapeutic technology that uses high-intensity ultrasound waves to destroy tumor tissue without open surgery. In pancreatic cancer treatment, this method works by precisely focusing heat energy on the tumor area, helping to relieve pain while gradually reducing tumor size. In a clinical study, HIFU demonstrated promising results in controlling symptoms and tumor mass in patients with advanced-stage pancreatic cancer. This technology is now available at Mandaya Royal Hospital Puri, supported by a specialist experienced in performing the procedure.
Clinical studies are essential because they provide the scientific foundation for ensuring the safety and effectiveness of a therapy before it is widely implemented. Through structured and measurable research, both the benefits and potential risks can be objectively evaluated, allowing patients to receive more targeted and evidence-based medical care.
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Clinical Study Results on HIFU Therapy
The effectiveness of HIFU therapy in managing pancreatic cancer is not merely theoretical but supported by research data. In a study titled Clinical Effectiveness and Potential Survival Benefit of US-Guided High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound Therapy in Patients with Advanced-Stage Pancreatic Cancer, HIFU therapy showed promising outcomes in patients with advanced pancreatic cancer.
1. Majority of Patients Experienced Significant Pain Reduction
Among 50 patients with advanced-stage pancreatic cancer who underwent HIFU therapy, 84% experienced significant abdominal pain reduction from the early phase of treatment. This pain-relieving effect persisted throughout the monitoring period, both in patients who had developed metastasis and those without cancer spread.
2. Gradual Tumor Size Reduction
In addition to reducing pain symptoms, HIFU therapy also impacted tumor size. The average tumor volume decreased by approximately 37.8% within the first 6 weeks after treatment and continued to shrink to around 57.9% after 6 months. These findings indicate that HIFU plays a role in gradually controlling tumor growth.
3. Indications of Potential Survival Improvement
The study also reported a median overall survival of approximately 16.2 months from the time of diagnosis, with a median progression-free survival of around 16.9 months. These results suggest a potential additional survival benefit for advanced-stage pancreatic cancer patients undergoing HIFU therapy.
Advantages of HIFU in Pancreatic Cancer Management
HIFU (High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound) is one of the modern therapeutic innovations offering a minimally invasive approach for pancreatic cancer. Below are several advantages that make HIFU increasingly considered in disease management:
1. No Open Surgery Required (Non-Invasive)
HIFU is performed without surgical procedures or body incisions. Since it does not require open surgery, it generally causes less physical trauma compared to conventional surgical methods.
2. Relatively Lower Risk and Generally Well Tolerated
Compared to major surgery, HIFU carries a lower level of risk. Most patients can tolerate this therapy well, making it suitable for those whose health condition does not allow invasive procedures.
3. Helps Significantly Reduce Pain
HIFU effectively lowers pain intensity, including in patients with metastatic pancreatic cancer. This benefit is particularly important in advanced stages, where pain often becomes the primary complaint affecting quality of life.
4. Potential to Shrink Tumor Size
Through thermal ablation, HIFU destroys cancer cells using focused heat, allowing the tumor to gradually shrink. Tumor mass reduction may also enhance the effectiveness of other therapies if combination treatment is required.
5. Helps Improve Patients’ Quality of Life
With symptoms better controlled and disease conditions more stable, patients have a greater opportunity to carry out daily activities more comfortably during treatment.
6. Potential Survival Benefit
In patients with limited therapeutic options, HIFU demonstrates the possibility of additional survival benefits. However, this potential continues to be evaluated through broader and more in-depth studies.
To date, various clinical studies continue to compare standard palliative therapy with a combination of standard therapy and HIFU in advanced pancreatic cancer. The goal is to further ensure the overall effectiveness and benefits of this therapy based on comprehensive scientific evidence.
HIFU Specialist for Pancreatic Cancer at Mandaya Royal Hospital Puri
HIFU procedures for pancreatic cancer at Mandaya Royal Hospital Puri are performed by dr. Sugianto Santoso, Sp.Rad, (K)RI, a radiologist with a subspecialty in interventional radiology experienced in various minimally invasive procedures.
In clinical practice, he utilizes imaging technologies such as ultrasound, CT scan, MRI, and fluoroscopy to ensure every procedure is performed accurately and safely. In addition to HIFU therapy, he is also skilled in procedures such as TACE (transarterial chemoembolization), radiofrequency ablation (RFA), and microwave ablation aimed at destroying tumor tissue without major surgery.
dr. Sugianto completed his General Medical degree at Universitas Kristen Maranatha, Bandung, and pursued his Radiology Specialist training at Universitas Indonesia. With a strong academic background and extensive clinical experience, he contributes to the implementation of modern minimally invasive technologies for more targeted pancreatic cancer treatment with better-controlled risks.
dr. Sugianto Santoso, Sp.Rad, (K)RI is available at Mandaya Royal Hospital Puri on:
- Tuesday: 16:00 – 20:00 WIB
- Thursday: 16:00 – 20:00 WIB
To make your visit easier, use the Chat feature via WhatsApp, Book Appointment, or the Care Dokter application available on Google Play and the App Store to schedule visits, check queue numbers, and obtain further information.
