Abstract ID: 17287 Title: Current status of HIFU therapy for treatment of benign and malignant tumors of the abdomen, pelvis and
bone
High-intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU) is a noninvasive method currently being
investigated to treat certain primary solid tumors, metastatic disease, and enhance drug
delivery. The field of medicine is evolving towards increasing use of noninvasive and
minimally invasive therapies such as HIFU. The application of HIFU for tumor therapy
has recently been gaining momentum due to advances in imaging technology such as
magnetic resonance thermometry and advanced ultrasound imaging techniques that
permit real-time monitoring of HIFU treatment effects. Currently, several commercially
available HIFU devices are manufactured worldwide for treatment of a wide variety of
both benign and malignant tumors including uterine fibroids, prostate cancer, pancreatic
cancer, liver tumors, thyroid tumors and other solid tumors that are accessible to
ultrasound energy. Although HIFU technology has been used clinically since the 1950’s
it remains a new therapeutic technology requiring further laboratory and clinical
evaluation. This presentation provides an overview of the current status of clinical
applications of HIFU for benign and malignant tumors within the abdomen and pelvis as
well as treatment of bone metastasis.
Learning Objectives:
1. Understand the mechanisms that HIFU induces a biologic effect
2. Understand the current limitations of ultrasound and MR-guided HIFU therapy
3. Understand the anatomic requisites and limitations for HIFU therapy