Focal Therapy: A Targeted Approach to Prostate Cancer That Prioritises Quality of Life

Prostate cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer among Australian men.

While traditional treatment options like surgery or radiation are often effective, they can carry significant side effects, including urinary incontinence and erectile dysfunction.

For men with localised, low- or intermediate-risk prostate cancer, focal therapy presents an exciting alternative—one that treats the cancer with precision, while preserving what matters most.

What Is Focal Therapy?

Focal therapy is a minimally invasive treatment designed to target only the tumour within the prostate, rather than removing or treating the entire gland. Think of it like a sniper rifle rather than a shotgun—it zeroes in on the cancerous tissue, sparing surrounding healthy prostate tissue and structures.

This makes it ideal for patients whose cancer is confined to a specific area of the prostate (often identified via advanced imaging and targeted biopsies). Technologies used in focal therapy include high-intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU), cryotherapy, laser ablation, and irreversible electroporation (IRE)—each offering unique ways to destroy cancer cells with minimal collateral damage.

Why Consider Focal Therapy?

What sets focal therapy apart is its balance of effectiveness and preservation. Patients often choose this option because it:

• Reduces the risk of side effects: The nerves and muscles involved in urinary and sexual function are left mostly untouched.

• Enables faster recovery: Most procedures are day surgeries, with quicker return to normal activity compared to radical surgery.

• Is repeatable: If cancer returns, focal therapy can be repeated or followed by other treatments, including surgery or radiation.

• Maintains quality of life: For many men, avoiding the emotional and physical toll of more aggressive treatments is a major factor in decision-making.

Who Is a Good Candidate?

Focal therapy is most suitable for men with low to intermediate-risk prostate cancer that is localised to a particular region of the prostate. Accurate diagnosis is essential. We use multi-parametric MRI, targeted biopsies, and genomic profiling where needed, to ensure the right patients are offered this option.

It’s not appropriate for all patients—but for the right individual, it offers a personalised, nuanced approach to cancer care.

A Personalised Path Forward

At my practice, we’re committed to offering men not only the most advanced treatment options but also the right treatment for their individual situation. Focal therapy represents a shift toward personalised urologic oncology—one where outcomes are measured not just in years of survival, but in the preservation of identity, independence, and wellbeing.

If you’ve been diagnosed with localised prostate cancer and are researching your options, focal therapy could be a path worth exploring.

Considering focal therapy?

Book a consultation with Dr. Arianayagam to discuss whether this advanced, minimally invasive treatment suits your diagnosis and lifestyle goals.

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