[Local treatment of prostate cancer using thermal-ablative energy]

Thermal and thermal-ablative procedures for treating prostate cancer have been investigated systematically since approximately 1980 (apart from some historical predecessors), and numerous experimental and clinical reports have been published on this subject. Various technologies have been used, including transurethral ablation of prostatic tissue using laser or microwave energy, interstitial application of laser or microwave energy, and inductive heating of previously implanted thermoseeds or injected magnetic nanoparticles in a magnetic field. For all of these procedures, clinical studies with a total of some 350 patients have been performed. However, the results cannot be judged correctly because of a lack of adequate control parameters for the older studies and inadequately short follow-up of all studies. Conclusions regarding treatment-related morbidity seem to be possible, with a generally positive impression and low rates of adverse effects. But before such results can be generalized, patient selection bias and the technology standards that existed when the studies were performed must be taken into consideration. Various papers are reviewed and summarized. In the author's opinion, the different options for thermal and thermal-ablative treatment of prostate cancer are very promising, but in light of the existing standard procedures, feasibility must not overrule reasonableness.