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Boston HIFU

High Intensity Focused Ultrasound Therapy

A Non-Surgical Treatment for Prostate Cancer

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HIFU: How does it compare with surgery or radiation?

High Intensity Focused Ultrasound (HIFU) is a type of non-surgical (non invasive) medical treatment that uses high-energy sound waves to heat and destroy abnormal tissue, such as cancer cells. It is often used as an alternative to surgery or radiation therapy for the treatment of various conditions, including prostate cancer, uterine fibroids, and breast cancer.

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Clifford Gluck M.D. FACS

Prostate Cancer Specialist

Dr. Clifford Gluck is a widely known Urologist in the Greater Boston Area, certified by the American Board of Urology. A specialist in High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound (HIFU), Dr. Gluck employs cutting edge procedures and techniques to help transform the prostate health of his patients

Dr. Gluck holds degrees from Stanford University, the UCLA School of Medicine, and Harvard University. His focus now includes rejuvenating the body and mind through highly specialized wellness procedures.

Dr. Gluck holds awards from America’s Top Urologists ’10-’15, America’s Top Surgeons ’11-’16, America’s Top Doctors, Best of Boston 2016, and America’s Best Physicians ’17-’18. Dr. Clifford Gluck is one of the few physicians in Massachusetts to specialize in Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy for Libido.

Prostate Cancer:
 
What are my options for treatment?

If detected early, prostate cancer can often be successfully treated. There are several treatment options available, including surgery, radiation therapy, and hormone therapy.

Learn More
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risks active surveillance prostate cancer

Active Surveillance on Prostate Cancer: What are the risks?

Active surveillance involves closely monitoring the cancer with regular check-ups, including prostate-specific antigen (PSA) tests, digital rectal exams, and prostate biopsies, to determine if and when treatment is necessary.

Learn More
erectile dysfunction regenerative treatment

Erectile Dysfunction: Regenerative treatment vs. traditional therapies

It is important to discuss the potential benefits and risks of any therapy with a healthcare provider to determine if it is a suitable option. Ultimately, the best treatment option for ED will depend on the individual circumstances of each patient.

Learn More
new solutions incontinence

Urinary Incontinence: New solutions and traditional treatment

Urinary incontinence is the loss of control over the bladder, leading to the accidental leakage of urine. It is a common problem that can affect people of all ages and can have a significant impact on quality of life.

Learn More
testosterone prostate cancer

Testosterone:
Friend or Foe in Prostate Cancer?

On the one hand, testosterone can stimulate growth and may make the cancer more aggressive. On the other hand, testosterone can also maintain bone density and increase muscle mass.

Learn More

To schedule an appointment, or book a video consultation, please fill out the form below or call (781) 337-6737

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High Intensity Focused Ultrasound Therapy for prostate cancer (HIFU) icon

HIFU: How does it compare with surgery or radiation?

High Intensity Focused Ultrasound (HIFU) is a type of non-surgical (non invasive) medical treatment that uses high-energy sound waves to heat and destroy abnormal tissue, such as cancer cells. It is often used as an alternative to surgery or radiation therapy for the treatment of various conditions, including prostate cancer, uterine fibroids, and breast cancer.

HIFU Advantages and Effectiveness

One advantage of HIFU is that it is a minimally invasive procedure, meaning it does not involve making incisions in the skin or exposing the body to ionizing radiation. This can make it a more attractive option for those who may be hesitant to undergo surgery or radiation due to the associated risks and side effects. HIFU is typically an outpatient procedure, so patients can return home the same day.

In terms of effectiveness, HIFU has been shown to be successful in the treatment of prostate cancer. However, it may not be suitable for all patients. It is important to discuss the potential benefits and risks with a healthcare provider to determine the best course of treatment.

How does it HIFU work?

High Intensity Focused Ultrasound works by focusing high-energy sound waves at a specific point in the body, causing the tissue at that point to heat up and be destroyed. The sound waves are generated by a device called a transducer, which is placed on the skin over the area being treated. The heat generated by the sound waves causes the tissue to coagulate, or form clots, which can lead to the death of cancer cells.

HIFU is generally well-tolerated, with minimal side effects. However, as with any medical treatment, there are potential risks and complications that should be discussed with a healthcare provider. These may include pain, swelling, and changes in bowel and bladder function.Overall, HIFU is a promising option for those seeking a less invasive alternative to surgery or radiation therapy for the treatment of certain medical conditions. It’s important to discuss the potential benefits and risks with a healthcare provider to determine the best course of treatment for an individual’s specific needs.

High Intensity Focused Ultrasound Therapy for prostate cancer (HIFU) icon

Prostate Cancer:
What are my options for treatment?

Prostate cancer is a type of cancer that affects the prostate gland, which is a small, walnut-sized gland located in the male reproductive system. It is the most common cancer in men and is often detected early through screening tests such as the prostate-specific antigen (PSA) test and digital rectal exam (DRE).

If detected early, prostate cancer can often be successfully treated. There are several treatment options available, including surgery, radiation therapy, and hormone therapy.

  • Surgery

Surgery is a common treatment option for prostate cancer and may involve removing the prostate gland (prostatectomy) or just a portion of it. There are several types of prostatectomy, including open surgery and laparoscopic surgery. Open surgery involves making an incision in the abdomen to access the prostate gland, while laparoscopic surgery uses small incisions and specialized instruments to remove it.

  • Radiation Therapy

Radiation therapy involves using high-energy beams, such as X-rays or protons, to kill cancer cells. It can be administered externally, using a machine to deliver the radiation to the prostate gland from outside the body, or internally, using a device that delivers the radiation directly to the prostate gland.

  • Hormone Therapy

Hormone therapy is another treatment option for prostate cancer. The prostate gland is stimulated by male hormones, such as testosterone, to grow and function. Hormone therapy works by reducing the levels of these hormones in the body or blocking their action, which can slow or stop the growth of prostate cancer cells. This can be achieved through medications, such as androgen deprivation therapy, or through surgical removal of the testicles (orchiectomy).

  • Other Cancer Treatment Options

Chemotherapy involves the use of drugs to kill cancer cells, while targeted therapy uses drugs that target specific pathways involved in the growth and survival of cancer cells. Immunotherapy, also known as biologic therapy, uses the body’s immune system to attack cancer cells.

All cancer treatment options should be discussed with a healthcare provider to determine the best treatment choice for an individual’s specific needs and circumstances. Factors that may influence treatment decisions include the stage and grade of the cancer, the patient’s age and overall health, and personal preferences.

risks active surveillance prostate cancer

Active Surveillance on Prostate Cancer: What are the risks?

Active surveillance is a treatment option for men with early-stage, low-risk prostate cancer that is small and slow-growing. It involves closely monitoring the cancer with regular check-ups, including prostate-specific antigen (PSA) tests, digital rectal exams, and prostate biopsies, to determine if and when treatment is necessary. The goal of active surveillance is to avoid the risks and side effects of unnecessary treatment, such as surgery or radiation therapy, while still providing effective management of the cancer.

This type of monitoring is generally recommended for men with a Gleason score of 6 or lower (on a scale of 2-10, with higher scores indicating a more aggressive cancer) and a PSA level below 10 ng/mL. It is also important to consider other factors, such as the patient’s age and overall health, in determining whether active surveillance is a suitable treatment option.

What are the Risks of Active Surveillance?

The risks of active surveillance include the possibility of the cancer progressing or becoming more aggressive over time. It is important for men on active surveillance to undergo regular monitoring to ensure that the cancer is not growing or changing. If the cancer does progress, treatment options may include surgery, radiation therapy, or hormone therapy. There is also a risk of missed diagnosis or delay in treatment, which may reduce the chances of a cure.

Additionally, active surveillance may be associated with anxiety and uncertainty for some patients. It can be difficult for some men to accept the idea of “watchful waiting” and not immediately pursuing more aggressive treatment. It is important for men on active surveillance to have a good support system and to discuss their concerns and feelings with their healthcare team.

Your healthcare provider should discuss the benefits and risks of this approach to determine if it is an appropriate treatment option. Factors that may influence the decision to pursue active surveillance include the stage and grade of the cancer, the patient’s age and overall health, and personal preferences. Ultimately, the best treatment option will depend on the individual circumstances of each patient.

erectile dysfunction regenerative treatment

Erectile Dysfunction: Regenerative treatment vs. traditional therapies

Erectile dysfunction (ED) is a common condition that affects the ability to achieve and maintain an erection sufficient for sexual activity. It can be caused by a variety of factors, including age, lifestyle factors such as smoking and excessive alcohol consumption, and underlying health conditions such as heart disease and diabetes.

There are several traditional therapies that work by increasing blood flow to the penis. These include:

  • Oral medications, such as sildenafil (Viagra), tadalafil (Cialis), and vardenafil (Levitra)
  • Vacuum devices involve using a pump to create a vacuum around the penis, which draws blood into the tissue and causes an erection. 
  • Penile Injections involve injecting medication directly into the penis to increase blood flow and cause an erection. 

In recent years, there has been increasing interest in regenerative treatments for ED, such as stem cell therapy and platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy. These treatments involve injecting stem cells or PRP into the penis to stimulate the growth of new blood vessels and improve blood flow.

Low intensity shockwave therapy, also known as extracorporeal shockwave therapy (ESWT), is a non-invasive treatment option for erectile dysfunction (ED). It involves the use of low-energy shockwaves to stimulate the growth of new blood vessels and improve blood flow to the penis.

ESWT is typically performed where the patient lies on a table and the shockwaves are delivered to the penis through a hand-held device. Some patients may experience mild discomfort or pain during the procedure, but this is typically temporary and can be managed with pain medication.

Low Recovery Time and Side Effects

Low intensity shockwave therapy is generally well-tolerated, with few reported side effects. It is typically performed as an outpatient procedure, with no downtime or recovery period.

There is some evidence to suggest that low intensity shockwave therapy may be effective in improving erectile function in men with ED. A systematic review and meta-analysis of 14 randomized controlled trials found that low intensity shockwave therapy was associated with a statistically significant improvement in erectile function compared to placebo or no treatment. The improvement was seen in both men with organic ED (caused by physical factors such as arterial insufficiency or venous leak) and psychogenic ED (caused by psychological factors such as anxiety or depression).

Another study found that low intensity shockwave therapy was effective in improving erectile function and increasing the number of successful sexual encounters in men with ED. The study included a total of 50 men with ED, and found that treatment with low intensity shockwave therapy resulted in a significant improvement in erectile function and a significant increase in the number of successful sexual encounters compared to placebo.

Effectiveness and Risks

The effectiveness of regenerative treatments for ED is still being studied and is not yet fully understood. Some studies have suggested that they may be effective in improving erectile function, while others have not found a significant benefit. There is also a risk of side effects and complications, such as pain and infection.

It is important to discuss the potential benefits and risks of any therapy with a healthcare provider to determine if it is a suitable option. Other treatment options for ED, such as oral medications and vacuum devices, may be more established and have a proven track record of effectiveness. Ultimately, the best treatment option for ED will depend on the individual circumstances of each patient.

new solutions incontinence

Urinary Incontinence: New solutions and traditional treatment

Urinary incontinence is the loss of control over the bladder, leading to the accidental leakage of urine. It is a common problem that can affect people of all ages and can have a significant impact on quality of life. Incontinence can be caused by a variety of factors, including weakness in the muscles that control the bladder, nerve damage, and certain medical conditions such as diabetes and multiple sclerosis. In women, incontinence is often the result of damage to the pelvic muscles and ligaments that support the bladder, uterus, and rectum, which can occur during childbirth, surgery, or aging.

There are several traditional treatment options available for urinary incontinence, including medications, pelvic floor muscle exercises, and lifestyle changes. Medications, such as anticholinergics and alpha-blockers, can help to relax the muscles of the bladder and reduce the frequency of urination. Pelvic floor muscle exercises, also known as Kegel exercises, involve strengthening the muscles that support the bladder, uterus, and rectum. Lifestyle changes, such as reducing fluid intake, avoiding caffeine and alcohol, and quitting smoking, can also be effective in managing incontinence.

Treatments for Incontinence

In recent years, there have been several new solutions developed for the treatment of urinary incontinence. One such solution is a device called an insertable urethral sphincter (IUS), which is a small, flexible device that is inserted into the urethra and can be inflated or deflated to help control the flow of urine. Another new solution is a device called a percutaneous tibial nerve stimulator (PTNS), which is a small device that is placed on the ankle and delivers low-level electrical stimulation to the tibial nerve to help improve bladder control.

HIFU – A Non Invasive Treatment for Incontinence

High intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU) is a medical treatment that uses high-energy sound waves to heat and destroy abnormal tissue, such as cancer cells. It has been used in the treatment of various medical conditions, including urinary incontinence, particularly in women.

HIFU has been used as a treatment for incontinence in women by targeting the muscles and ligaments that support the bladder. The procedure is typically performed under local anesthesia and involves the use of a hand-held device to deliver high-energy sound waves to the pelvic area. The heat generated by the sound waves causes the tissue to coagulate, or form clots, which can lead to the death of the tissue. This can help to strengthen the muscles and ligaments that support the bladder, resulting in improved bladder control.

There is some evidence to suggest that HIFU may be effective in improving incontinence in women. A systematic review and meta-analysis of six randomized controlled trials found that HIFU was associated with a statistically significant improvement in incontinence compared to placebo or no treatment. However, the review also found that the quality of the evidence was low, and further research is needed to confirm the effectiveness of HIFU in urinary incontinence treatment.

Be sure to discuss the potential benefits and risks of HIFU with a healthcare provider to determine if it is a suitable treatment option for incontinence. Other therapy options, such as medications and pelvic floor muscle exercises, may also be effective in managing incontinence and should be considered as well. Ultimately, the best treatment option for incontinence will depend on the individual circumstances of each patient.

testosterone prostate cancer

Testosterone: Friend or Foe in Prostate Cancer?

Testosterone is a male hormone that is produced by the testicles. It plays a key role in the development and maintenance of male characteristics, such as facial and body hair, muscle mass, and sex drive. Testosterone is also involved in the development of prostate cancer, as the prostate gland is stimulated by testosterone to grow and function.

In men with prostate cancer, testosterone can act as both a friend and a foe. On the one hand, testosterone can stimulate growth and may make the cancer more aggressive. This is because the cancer cells are sensitive to testosterone and may rely on it for growth and survival. On the other hand, testosterone can also have beneficial effects on the body, such as maintaining bone density, improving mood, and increasing muscle mass.

The role of testosterone in prostate cancer treatment is complex and not fully understood. Some studies have suggested that testosterone may have a protective effect on the prostate and may even be able to slow the growth of cancer cells. For example, a study published in the Journal of Clinical Oncology found that testosterone replacement therapy was associated with a lower risk of cancer recurrence in men with non-metastatic prostate cancer who had undergone surgery or radiation therapy.

However, other studies have found that testosterone may stimulate the growth of prostate cancer cells and may be associated with an increased risk of cancer recurrence. A study published in the New England Journal of Medicine found that testosterone replacement therapy was associated with an increased risk of cancer recurrence in men with non-metastatic prostate cancer.

It’s essential to discuss the potential benefits and risks of testosterone therapy with a healthcare provider to determine if it is a suitable treatment option for prostate cancer. Other treatment options, such as surgery, radiation therapy, and hormone therapy, may be more established and have a proven track record of effectiveness. In the end, the best treatment option for prostate cancer will depend on the individual circumstances of each patient.