How early diagnosis opened the door to targeted HIFU treatment for David's prostate cancer

High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound (HIFU) is a type of minimally invasive focal therapy designed to target prostate cancer precisely - with fewer side effects and a faster recovery time. Under the care of Professor Rakesh Heer, Consultant Urological Surgeon at London Bridge Hospital, part of HCA Healthcare UK, David underwent successful treatment and is now back to enjoying the activities that he enjoys the most. 

Here, David shares the experience of his diagnosis, treatment and recovery, and why he believes early detection made all the difference. 

A routine test that changed everything

Like many people diagnosed with early-stage prostate cancer, David wasn’t experiencing any symptoms. But a routine PSA blood test revealed an elevated result and led to further investigations. A PSA test is a simple blood test that measures the level of prostate-specific antigen, a protein made by the prostate gland, to help check for prostate conditions like cancer, infection, or an enlarged prostate.

"I had no symptoms at all and felt completely normal,” David recalls. "That's why the diagnosis came as such a surprise." 

Over the following weeks, David underwent a number of tests. While initial investigations did not identify a clear cause, an MRI scan provided the answer, he had prostate cancer. 

"It was certainly unexpected because I felt completely well," he says. "But I was reassured that it had been identified early and that there were multiple treatment options to consider." 

Finding the right specialist

As David explored his treatment options, he was referred to Professor Rakesh Heer at London Bridge Hospital.

"When I met Professor Heer, I immediately felt reassured," David says. "He took the time to explain my diagnosis and what my treatment options were. I never felt rushed and I always felt informed and able to ask questions." 

Following a review of his scans and biopsy result, Professor Heer and the multidisciplinary team recommended focal therapy using HIFU - a highly effective treatment option for patients with early-stage prostate cancer that has not spread beyond the prostate.

"For me, that was incredibly important," David explains. "The idea of having a treatment that precisely targeted the cancer, while spending less time in hospital and reducing the risk of side effects, felt like the best option for me."

Why HIFU? 

Professor Rakesh Heer explains:

"HIFU, or High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound, is an advanced focal therapy that uses ultrasound energy to destroy cancer cells without incisions. One of the main advantages is its precision. By targeting only the cancerous tissue, we reduce the impact on surrounding structures that are important for urinary continence and sexual function, aspects of recovery that matter enormously to our patients. At HCA Healthcare UK, we offer HIFU alongside the full spectrum of prostate cancer treatments, allowing us to tailor treatment to each individual's needs."

Treatment and recovery 

Before coming in for his treatment at London Bridge Hospital the team ensured David knew exactly how to prepare - and what would happen on the day, so that he could feel as reassured as possible. 

"I knew what to expect and everything happened just as they'd explained it would," he says. "The whole experience felt very straightforward. I had very little discomfort afterwards and I was back to work and travelling again before long. It was remarkably smooth."

Looking back, David believes his early diagnosis directly influenced the treatment options available to him.

"The cancer had the potential to become more aggressive if it had been left untreated," he says. "Because it was found when it was, I was able to have less invasive treatment rather than something more extensive."

Recovery and reassurance

A few months after the procedure, David had his first follow up PSA blood test.

“I’ll admit I was nervous, waiting for the call from Professor Heer to tell me the result. When he rang to say the treatment had been successful, it was a real relief, and I could finally stop thinking about what the result might be.” 

It was good news, and hearing it directly from Professor Heer gave David the reassurance he needed to fully focus on life again. 

Looking ahead with confidence

This year, David celebrated his 70th birthday with a renewed appreciation for life.