NanoKnife, the newest addition to Touro's prostate cancer surgical technology and
the only one of its kind in the New Orleans region, is a painless, 45-minute
minimally invasive surgical technique available for suitable candidates
in search of an alternative treatment to traditional prostate cancer surgery.
NanoKnife minimally invasive surgery for prostate cancer
Prostate cancer affects one in every eight men during their lifetime, making
it the most prevalent form of cancer for males. For many, the standard
of care means facing aggressive treatments that include radiation and
the freezing or removal of the entire prostate, which often result in
incontinence, sexual, and erectile dysfunction.
Touro now offers Nanoknife surgery, a painless and minimally invasive surgical
technique which may offer an alternative to the punishing effects of prostate
cancer. For prostate cancer patients who are found to be suitable candidates
following an MRI or biopsy determining the size, shape, and location of
the tumor, the NanoKnife surgery may be an alternative treatment for prostate cancer.
NanoKnife’s benefits
Maintain sexual function and urinary continence
Painless
Minimally Invasive 45-minute procedure
Quick and only requires one treatment
The NanoKnife’s precision minimizes the traditional side effects
of prostate cancer treatment, enabling Touro’s surgeons to treat
the cancerous part of the prostate without removing or damaging the whole
gland. The short duration targeted electric pulses attack the tumor, but
preserve the surrounding healthy cells and tissue with minimal side effects
and “collateral damage” of the prostate’s important
functions.
While cancer cells are destroyed, surrounding healthy tissue and nerves
are unharmed, making it a good option for patients with intermediate-risk
prostate cancer. This technique is designed to spare the nerves around
the prostate related to erections and bladder control, potentially preserving
urinary and erectile function. In some cases, infertility can occur.
45-minute surgical procedure
Performed under general anesthesia, the NanoKnife surgery uses ultrasound
or MRI guidance, to place small electrodes into the tumor. A series of
direct current electrical pulses pass between them to the exact area of
the cancer cells. This current generates an electric field that causes
defects in the cell membranes and facilitates cancer cell death.
NanoKnife prostate cancer recovery
After treatment, adjacent non-cancerous cells migrate in and replace the
dead cancer cells which allow the organ to continue to function. Because
it’s minimally invasive, it has a low complication rate and offers
a shorter post-operative recovery and hospital stay. Follow-up general
includes regular MRI, repeat biopsies and PSA tests.
The NanoKnife procedure is offered by Dr. Spencer Krane, Urologic Surgeon
specializing in Urologic Oncology at Touro.
Is NanoKnife surgery an option for you? 504-897-7196.
