Prostate Cancer TreatmentHigh-Intensity Focused Ultrasound (HIFU)
A Trusted, Minimally Invasive Option for Localized Prostate Cancer

High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound (HIFU)

High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound (HIFU) uses precisely delivered ultrasound energy to destroy cancerous tissue in the prostate — without radiation or surgery.

This globally tested treatment has been used for decades and offers men a safe, effective option that prioritizes quality of life.

It’s performed on an outpatient basis, requires no incisions, and has minimal impact on sexual or urinary function for most patients. In eligible cases, it can also be repeated if needed.

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Benefits of HIFU
Minimally Invasive
No incisions or hospital stay
Focal Therapy
Targets cancer while sparing healthy prostate tissue
Preserves Sexual Function
70-85% retain erections after treatment¹
Preserves Continence
Up to 98% retain bladder control²
Quick Recovery
Most men return to normal activities within several days
Repeatable
Can be performed again if necessary in previously treated or new cancerous areas
Salvage Option
May be effective after failed radiation treatment
No Radiation
Avoids long-term risks, like secondary cancers
What Our Patients Say

After about three years of increasing PSA numbers my family doctor became concerned enough to refer me to a regional prostate diagnostic clinic. 

It took seven months, during which time I had to advocate proactively, to get a physical examination which determined  that I should have an MRI which determined that I should have a biopsy.

I was then presented with two options, neither of which were appealing. I could perhaps be treated with radiation or I could go radical and have surgery. The surgeon told me matter-of-factly that most patients are down to wearing one diaper a day after the first year and that if I wanted to have sex I could take Viagra. 

After exhaustively researching what other options there might be I discovered Can-Am HIFU, a private clinic in Toronto. 

Mary Duggan was professional and informative in my initial inquiries. I was able to provide her with all the data that was needed. Luckily I met the criteria to qualify for HIFU treatment and was passed along to Dr. Barkin.

The procedure was performed one month later. I walked back to the hotel a couple hours after, feeling like I had been kicked in the balls, but I drove home the following day. 

Wearing a catheter for two weeks was by far the most uncomfortable part of the process. Thankfully my initial follow up PSA tests have been very good. 

Dr. Barkin was excellent. Experienced, calm and a good communicator. I have had few side effects since the catheter came out. I’m still able to enjoy intimacy even though it has changed somewhat, but it was changing anyway with age. 

 R. H.

The Process

Consultation & Diagnosis

We begin by reviewing your medical history, biopsy results, imaging, and lab work to confirm if HIFU is right for you. You’ll learn about all of your treatment options and have the opportunity to ask questions. Family members are welcome to participate in this discussion.

Pre-Procedure Preparation

Any necessary blood work or tests will be arranged before the procedure. In most cases, only minimal preparation is needed. You will be required to fast from midnight the night before the procedure and may have to stop certain medications (like blood thinners) ahead of time. Our team will give you clear instructions ahead of time so you know exactly what to expect.

The Procedure

HIFU is done under spinal or general anesthesia. Using focused ultrasound energy, we target and destroy the cancerous tissue with precision, without damaging surrounding structures.

Recovery & Follow-Up

You’ll be discharged the same day. A temporary catheter is usually required for several days to help with urination while the treated tissue is being expelled and the expected swelling from the procedure goes down. We’ll schedule follow-up visits to check your PSA and monitor your recovery.

Know All Your Options

Not sure whether HIFU or IRE is the better fit? Learn how they compare »

Dr. Barkin treated my prostate cancer with HIFU and the experience was about as good as could be expected. They took me in on schedule and staff were friendly and efficient. Discharged with good post procedure instuctions and any follow-up questions were answered promptly.

Dr: Barkin treated me for prostatic cancerous lesion, he is a god sent surgeon , he treated me successfully and basically, 4 years down the, I am cancer free and my PSA is consistently low. He is extremely professional, kind, extraordinary at his work skill . He is very passionate what he does and very devoted to patients. His team members are superb and very kind and respectful. Please please if you are diagnosed with early prostate cancer then consult Dr Barkin. Your life will be almost normal, please be aware traditional treatments will destroy your life. Dr. Barkin is my HERO.

 KS, Alberta
Common Questions

HIFU stands for High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound. It’s a non-invasive treatment for prostate cancer that uses focused sound waves to precisely heat and destroy cancer cells — without surgery, radiation, or hospital stays. It’s fast, effective, minimally invasive, and all men return home hours after the procedure.

HIFU is designed for men with prostate cancer that hasn’t spread beyond the prostate. It’s often a good option for:

  • Those with low- to intermediate-risk prostate cancer
  • Men hoping to preserve urinary control and sexual function
  • Anyone looking to avoid surgery or radiation
  • Patients who need a second-line (aka salvage) treatment after radiation

We’ll help you figure out if it’s the right fit based on your test results, and your treatment and lifestyle goals.

HIFU is done under anesthesia (usually spinal, sometimes general) and takes 2-3 hours. A small ultrasound probe is placed in the rectum to deliver targeted sound waves that heat and destroy only the cancerous areas of the prostate – with a deliberate margin of safety.

In most cases, one session is enough. But if cancer develops in the same or a different area of the prostate later on, HIFU can be safely repeated.

Most men are up and around within a few days. You’ll have a catheter for several days to help with urination while your prostate heals. Some temporary symptoms are common — mild burning, urgency, or changes in flow — but they usually settle within weeks.

Yes, almost all men (around 98%) maintain normal bladder function after HIFU.

Every man is different, but research shows about 70-85% of men keep erectile function, depending on the cancer’s location and other personal factors.

Not during the procedure — you’ll be under anesthesia. After the procedure, some men feel mild soreness or stinging (especially near the tip of the penis), and may experience bladder spasms, but the pain and discomfort usually go away a few days after the catheter is removed.

Yes. For a short time after HIFU, you might notice:

  • Small bits of tissue or clots in your urine
  • Mild leakage, especially around the catheter if you have bladder spasms
  • Other temporary discomfort

It’s all part of the healing process.

We use regular PSA tests to monitor your progress:

  • Every 3 months in the first year
  • Every 6 months in the second year
  • Then yearly (or as advised)

Your referring urologist will adjust the follow-up plan to suit your situation.

No, HIFU is not covered by OHIP or other provincial health plans. It’s a privately paid procedure.

If you already have a biopsy or imaging report, send it to us and we’ll review it. If you haven’t been diagnosed yet, we can guide you through testing. We offer advanced diagnostics like:

  • MRI Fusion Guided Transperineal Biopsy (more precise, image-guided)
  • TRUS Guided Transperineal Ultrasound Biopsy

We’re here to help you understand all your options and choose what’s best for you.

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Find out if you're a candidate for HIFU
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