HIFU is a proven technology, approved for treatment in a number of medical conditions, including for the ablation of prostate tissue. In a HIFU procedure, ultrasound energy is projected into the body from the outside and focused into a point inside the body. The technology enables the selective thermal ablation of a confined volume of tissue inside the body, leaving surrounding tissue intact. Consequently, the targeted tissue dies and spontaneously evacuates from the body.
Implementing novel techniques in diagnostic ultrasound, NINA Medical can control and navigate the therapeutic beam inside patient’s body at HIFU intensities below the threshold for thermal-damage to the tissue, sparing expensive MRI solutions. Upon getting the focal point on target, the system may be switched into a high-power mode in order to generate the therapeutic effect in the desired location.
The Therapeutic Pillow opens a new era in general pelvic floor imaging; the sitting pose opens a new sight into the anatomy, since the internal arrangement of organs may be influenced by the position of the patient during examination (sitting vs. laying down). In addition, the natural, relaxed psychological experience of the patient during examination enables the recording of biological and physiological processes in real time, e.g. urine flow and sphincter operation, muscle movement, blood flow and more. Moreover, virtual reality techniques and accessories can be used to augment and control the patient’s experience, e.g. by using a VR headset during examination.
Non-cancerous enlargement of the prostate (BPH) is a progressive disease, affecting more than 50% of men above 50 (NIDDK – NIH Publication 14-3012 Aug. 2014). Being so common, BPH is sometimes considered as part of the normal aging process of man. Symptoms include difficulties in urination, frequent visits and long stays in the bathroom, and urgent need to go (during day and night). Severe symptoms may include blockage of the urethra, chronic urinary tract infection and even permanent damage to the bladder and kidneys. The existing treatment solutions are based on the insertion of instrumentation through the urethra, an unpleasant procedure that may have a psychologic effect on the suffering man, causing him to postpone treatment; it is assumed that less aggressive treatment option will encourage men to receive treatment earlier.