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Histoblast: A Novel Cavitative High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound (HIFU)-Modified Technique for Benign Prostatic
Carlos M Garcia-Gutierrez1, Carlos A Garcia-Becerra1, Natalia Garcia-Becerra2
1Department of Urology, UroVallarta Urological Center, Puerto Vallarta, MEX.
Cureus
|January 12, 2026
Summary
A new High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound (HIFU) technique, Histoblast, improves benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) treatment efficiency. This method significantly reduces treatment time and enhances acoustic efficiency for better patient outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Urology
- Medical Technology
- Acoustic Engineering
Background:
- Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) is a common condition affecting quality of life.
- Current High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound (HIFU) for BPH has limitations including long treatment times and delayed symptom relief.
- The Sonablate 500® (SB-500) system is a platform for HIFU procedures.
Purpose of the Study:
- To introduce and evaluate a novel HIFU-based technique (Histoblast) for improved BPH treatment.
- To enhance treatment efficiency and clinical outcomes in BPH management using HIFU.
- To refine HIFU application for benign prostatic hyperplasia.
Main Methods:
- Utilized the Sonablate 500® (SB-500) system with modified HIFU parameters.
- Implemented a checkerboard treatment pattern to reduce treatment time and edema.
- Employed prostate compression via increased degassed water volume for enhanced acoustic efficiency.
- Optimized energy delivery and monitored treatment with Tissue Change Monitoring and Reflectivity Index.
- Performed procedures under spinal anesthesia with ~4-day postoperative catheterization.
Main Results:
- Reduced treatment shots by 40-50%, leading to significantly shorter treatment times.
- Observed controlled acoustic cavitation in 70-75% of treated zones, indicating effective ablation.
- Prioritized preservation of the urethra and bladder neck for early catheter removal.
Conclusions:
- The novel Histoblast HIFU technique offers a promising refinement for BPH management.
- This approach demonstrates improved treatment efficiency and potential for better clinical outcomes in BPH.
- Further clinical evaluation is warranted to confirm the efficacy and safety of this HIFU technique for BPH.
