Evolution of Focal Therapy in Prostate Cancer: Past, Present, and Future

Urol Clin North Am. 2022 Feb;49(1):129-152. doi: 10.1016/j.ucl.2021.07.011. Epub 2021 Oct 23.

Abstract

Organ sparing approaches for the management of localized prostate cancer were developed in part to overcome the morbidity associated with standard, whole gland treatment options. The first description of focal therapy was now over two decades ago and since that time much has changed. The evolution of patient selection, the approach to ablation, and surveillance after focal therapy have mirrored the technologic advancements in the field as well as the improved understanding of the biology of low-grade, low-risk prostate cancer. This review presents the evidence for the basis of focal therapy from the past to the present and future endeavors.

Keywords: Ablation; Focal therapy; Localize; Nomenclature; Prostate cancer.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Ablation Techniques / methods*
  • Ablation Techniques / trends
  • Humans
  • Image-Guided Biopsy / methods
  • Male
  • Multimodal Imaging
  • Multiparametric Magnetic Resonance Imaging
  • Neoplasm Grading
  • Patient Selection*
  • Prostate / pathology
  • Prostatic Neoplasms / diagnosis
  • Prostatic Neoplasms / pathology*
  • Prostatic Neoplasms / surgery*
  • Risk Factors
  • Ultrasonography