NanoKnife (IRE)
A precise and effective, minimally invasive treatment that destroys prostate cancer cells while helping preserve sexual function and bladder control.
NanoKnife (IRE) treats localized prostate cancer using short electrical pulses – not heat, cold, or radiation. These pulses break down only prostate cancer cells while leaving nearby nerves and healthy tissue largely untouched.
That means lower risk of side effects, no incisions, and a faster return to normal life. Most men maintain their urinary continence and sexual function, making NanoKnife an excellent option for qualified patients who want to treat their cancer without sacrificing quality of life.
At UUA, our team has deep experience using NanoKnife technology, guided by real-time MRI Fusion imaging for maximum precision and safety.
Why Choose NanoKnife (IRE)?
Standard treatments like surgery and radiation typically affect the entire prostate – not just the cancer lesion. That often means giving up more than you expected: your sex life, your bladder control, and months of your time.
NanoKnife is different. It’s focused. It’s outpatient. And it’s repeatable if needed – something radiation or surgery can’t offer.
This approach is ideal for qualified patients with localized prostate cancer who want effective treatment with less disruption to their lives.
A Highly Specialized NanoKnife (IRE) Treatment Team at UUA
Every NanoKnife (IRE) procedure at UUA is carried out by a dedicated team of seven medical professionals, each playing a critical role in delivering precision care and ensuring your safety:
- Two surgeons
- A full-time anesthesiologist
- Two nurses
- An AngioDynamics technical specialist
- An ultrasound technologist
This level of collaboration reflects the complexity and precision of the treatment – and our commitment to doing it right.
HIFU vs. NanoKnife (IRE)
Both HIFU (High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound) and NanoKnife (Irreversible Electroporation) are advanced focal therapies designed to treat prostate cancer while sparing healthy tissue. They share a common goal: to target the cancer precisely and preserve quality of life – but they work in different ways, and each has its strengths depending on the situation.
| FEATURE | HIFU | NANOKNIFE (IRE) |
|---|---|---|
| Mechanism |
Uses ultrasound waves to heat and destroy cancerous tissue |
Uses electrical pulses to destabilize cancer cell membranes, leading to malignant cell death |
| Thermal vs. Non-Thermal |
Thermal – relies on heat to ablate tissue |
Non-Thermal – avoids heat-related side effects |
| Preserves Nerves & Structures |
High precision, but heat can still affect nearby nerves in some cases |
Specifically designed to spare nerves, reducing risks to sexual function |
| Treatment Time |
1-2 hours |
1-2 hours |
| Catheter Requirement |
Usually required for a few days |
Usually required for a few days |
| Repeatability |
Can be repeated if necessary |
Can be repeated if necessary |
| Erectile dysfunction |
Comparable |
Comparable |
| Incontinence |
Comparable |
Comparable |
| Tumour location |
Maximum distance from the surface of the transrectal ultrasound probe = 4cm |
No limitations as to the location of the tumour |
| Tumour size |
Prostate volumes up to 40cc, can treat both sides of the prostate simultaneously |
Single treatment, limited to maximum 20mm x 30mm lesion; for bilateral treatment repositioning of the needles is required |
| Anesthetic |
Spinal or general |
General |
Which one is right for you?
The best treatment depends on your specific grade of prostate cancer, prostate size, cancer location, cancer size, and personal priorities. At UUA, we offer both HIFU and NanoKnife (IRE), providing personalized treatment recommendations based on your unique case.
The Process
Consultation & Diagnosis
We start by reviewing your medical history, biopsy results, PSA levels, and prostate imaging to see if NanoKnife (IRE) is right for you. Now, you’ll have a chance to discuss all your options with your specialist and ask any questions – our goal is to help you make an informed decision with confidence. Family members are welcome to participate in this discussion.
Preparation
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. Any necessary blood work or tests will be arranged before the procedure, and we’ll give you detailed instructions to guide you through each step.
The Procedure
NanoKnife is done under general anesthesia to ensure your comfort.
An ultrasound probe is inserted into the rectum to create a live image of the prostate, which is combined with your MRI scan for accurate targeting of the prostate cancer.
Fine needles are placed through the perineum (the area between the scrotum and anus), guided by the imaging in order to surround the cancer lesion. Once in place, these needles deliver short electrical pulses to destroy the cancerous area while sparing nearby healthy structures.
Recovery & Follow-Up
You’ll be discharged a few hours after the treatment, with minimal discomfort.
A temporary catheter is typically used for several days to help with urination as the treated tissue heals and the expected swelling from treatment goes down.
We’ll follow your progress using PSA testing at regular intervals — typically at 3, 6, 9, and 12 months after treatment, then every 6 months in year two. After that, your doctor will recommend a long-term plan tailored to you.
Men with low- to intermediate-risk localized prostate cancer and low Gleason score, who want to avoid the side effects of surgery or radiation. It’s especially suitable for men concerned about preserving their quality of life.
NanoKnife (IRE) uses short electrical pulses to destroy cancer cells with extreme precision. Tiny electrodes are placed in the prostate, guided by real-time MRI Fusion imaging — with no incisions or stitches required.
Each procedure involves a coordinated team of up to seven medical professionals, working together to ensure accuracy, safety, and the best possible outcome.
No. This is an outpatient procedure; patients are discharged the same day from our non-hospital based, private, downtown Toronto clinic.
Most men return to normal activities within a few days. There may be mild discomfort for a short time.
NanoKnife (IRE) is designed to avoid the nerves that control erections. Most men retain their existing sexual function level.
Yes. Unlike radiation, NanoKnife (IRE) can be repeated if needed – either to treat new areas or if the cancer returns to a previously treated area.
This procedure is not covered by OHIP or private insurance. Please contact us for pricing and payment options.