North Austin Urology Specialists Logo
NAU Urology Specialists Logo

Meet Our Providers


Our Locations

Preparing for Your HIFU Procedure

The Ablatherm is a state-of-the-art device that uses a high-performance, high-intensity focused ultrasound technology that allows the ablation of prostate tissue.

The unique technology makes it possible to target and destroy the parts of the prostate, sparing the rest of the organ and therefore minimizing side effects. Instead of using radiation, high-intensity sound waves are used to heat up and burn the targeted tissues, choking off the blood supply and causing cell death. This procedure is in no way a therapy roadblock, as it is repeatable and can be followed, like for a prostatectomy, by external radiotherapy. It preserves the erectile nerves and urinary sphincter thanks to the precise targeting of lesions.

Before your procedure

  • Continue to take other prescribed medications, UNLESS it is on the enclosed list of drugs to avoid. This is important, especially if you are diabetic or being treated for high blood pressure.
  • Your physician has prescribed an antibiotic or given you a sample, to be taken for seven (7) consecutive days. Begin taking pills day of the procedure that evening.
  • Ten (10) days before your procedure: stop taking any Plavix after talking to the prescribing doctor.
  • Seven (7) days before your procedure: stop taking Coumadin, Pradaxa, Eliquis, Xarelto,  aspirin, Advil, Motrin, Ibuprofen, or Aleve.
  • Take the antibiotic on the day of the procedure and for six (6) days afterward.
  •  You will need to purchase 2 Fleet’s enemas from the drug store.  On the day of the test, administer the Fleet’s enemas Two (2) hours prior to your scheduled appointment.
  • You will need someone to drive you to and from the procedure. 
  • You will need to be on a clear liquid diet the day prior to the procedure. This includes water, broth, jello, fruit juices without pulp, tea, coffee or ensure clear. 
  • Nothing by mouth after midnight before the procedure. You may have a small sip of water with any medications that morning.

After the procedure

At the end of the procedure, a temporary urinary catheter will be placed through your penis into your bladder in order to limit the risk of urinary retention due to the temporary swelling of the prostate. You will wear this catheter for 1-2 weeks, depending on the specifics of your individual case. We recommend no strenuous activity while the catheter is in place.

  • You will start your antibiotic for 7 days post procedure, starting the day before catheter removal.
  • You will need to take a stool softener and stay hydrated to limit constipation.
  • We may prescribe a bladder antispasmodic such as Mybetric, Vesicare or Oxybutynin.
  • We may also recommend penile rehabilitation, which includes the use of oral medication such as Cialis, or a vacuum erection device.
  • You may take Tylenol or ibuprofen as directed for pain if necessary.
  • We may ask home health to help manage the catheter.

Want to learn more about our Austin prostate cancer treatment center and HIFU for prostate cancer? Contact us below.

Schedule Your HIFI Consultation Here.