Ultrasound Therapy for Prostate Cancer Shows Early Functional Benefits Over Surgery, but Cancer Control Still Unclear

A new study comparing a non-invasive ultrasound treatment for prostate cancer with standard robotic prostate removal shows encouraging early results for the ultrasound approach. The technique, called MRI-guided transurethral ultrasound ablation (TULSA), uses targeted thermal ultrasound under real-time MRI control to destroy prostate tissue while aiming to preserve urinary and sexual function.

After six months, patients treated with TULSA had better outcomes in key quality-of-life measures compared to those who underwent radical prostatectomy. About twice as many men in the TULSA group were able to maintain full urinary continence and preserved erectile function. Recovery was also faster, with less pain, shorter hospital stays, and lower blood loss. On average, men returned to normal activities in about 10 days with TULSA versus 19 days after surgery.

Sexual function outcomes were similar between groups overall, but continence recovery clearly favored the ultrasound treatment. Serious complications were also lower in the TULSA group, including fewer hospital and ICU admissions.

However, experts stress that these are early results. The most important question—whether TULSA is as effective as surgery in controlling cancer long-term—will not be answered for about two years. Researchers are currently tracking recurrence, metastasis, and need for additional treatment.

For now, TULSA appears promising as a less invasive option with faster recovery and better short-term functional outcomes, but long-term cancer control data are still pending before it can be considered a replacement for surgery.

Bankhead, C. (2026, March 20). Ultrasound treatment for prostate cancer has early advantage versus prostatectomy. MedPage Today. https://www.medpagetoday.com/meetingcoverage/eau/120405