HIFU for Prostate Cancer in the UK

High intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU) is an advanced, minimally invasive treatment for prostate cancer. Delivered privately by specialist urologist Mr Keval Patel at HCA The Harborne Hospital, patients travel from across the UK to access this targeted therapy.

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HIFU is a targeted alternative to surgery & radiotherapy

For many men diagnosed with localised prostate cancer, the first treatment options discussed are radical prostatectomy (surgical removal of the prostate) or radiotherapy. While highly effective, these treatments can carry risks such as urinary incontinence and erectile dysfunction.

HIFU offers a different approach:

By focusing ultrasound energy directly on the cancerous tissue, HIFU aims to treat the affected area while preserving as much healthy prostate tissue as possible. This focal therapy approach may help reduce side effects and shorten recovery time compared to more invasive treatments.

It is not suitable for everyone – but for carefully selected patients, it can be an excellent option.

Science made simple

What is HIFU?

HIFU stands for high-intensity focused ultrasound. It is a minimally invasive treatment that uses precisely targeted ultrasound waves to heat and destroy cancer cells within the prostate.

The treatment is delivered using advanced imaging guidance, allowing the consultant to focus energy only where it is needed, without the need for a surgical incision.

Because there is no external cut and no removal of the prostate gland, recovery is typically faster than with traditional surgery.

doctor checking patient notes in hospital

Mr Keval Patel is offering HIFU therapy for prostate cancer out of the HCA Harborne Hospital.

"HIFU therapy is a highly personalised treatment for prostate cancer, and we believe in providing the patient with all available information, taking time to understand their diagnosis, lifestyle and goals, so we can decide on the right treatment plan for them."

Mr Keval Patel
  • KP

    Mr Keval Patel

    Urology

    BSc, MBBS, MERIT MSEd (Master of Surgical Education), PhD, FRCS(Urol)

    Available from 22/04/2026

    Mr Keval Patel is a Consultant Urological Surgeon providing private care at The Harborne Hospital (Birmingham) and The Priory Hospital (Birmingham). He specialises in robotic pelvic surgery, assessing and treating prostate and bladder cancer, prostate enlargement and benign penile and scrotal conditions. Using imaging and minimally invasive techniques, he explains test results and options clearly so decisions are informed, shared and aligned with each person’s priorities.

    Specialises in 5 procedures

    • Circumcision
    • Flexible Cystoscopy
    • RALP - Robotic-Assisted Laparoscopic Prostatectomy
    • TURP - Transurethral Resection of the Prostate
    See full profile
    Birmingham
    The Harborne Hospital
    The Priory Hospital
    21 Years Experience
    General Medical Council: 6129418
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Is HIFU right for me?

Careful assessment, including MRI imaging and biopsy results, is essential to determine whether HIFU is appropriate.

HIFU is most commonly used to treat:

Localised prostate cancer

Where cancer is confined to the prostate

Recurrent prostate cancer

Selected cases following radiotherapy

Preserve urinary & sexual function

Men seeking focal therapy approach to preserve urinary function & erections

Why patients travel for HIFU treatment

Access to HIFU treatment in the UK is limited and not all centres offer focal therapy for prostate cancer. In many hospitals alternative treatments may be offered instead, depending on local expertise and specialist training.

Mr Keval Patel is an experienced consultant urologist specialising in prostate cancer treatment, offering private HIFU at HCA The Harborne Hospital in Birmingham. The hospital is easily accessible by road, rail and air, and patients regularly travel from London, Manchester, Scotland and beyond for specialist-led care.

For many men, choosing the right specialist is more important than choosing the nearest hospital.

Keval Patel, consultant urological surgeon providing HIFU for prostate cancer

Specialist in HIFU

Mr Keval Patel is a private urological consultant working out of HCA The Harborne Hospital in Birmingham.

I’m so pleased to be able to offer this type of cutting-edge treatment to more UK patients, saving them time and expense travelling to London and the South East.

We work with the best technology, which means we have longevity in offering this type of treatment as well as reducing potential side effects for prostate cancer patients.

Mr Patel is highly recommended

Very experienced and his care and professionalism is on point

Patient of Keval Patel

I could not have asked for a more positive informative and professional consultation. Excellent.

Patient of Keval Patel

Very helpful and reassuring. He delivered potentially bad news well

Patient of Keval Patel

Book your HIFU consultation today with Get Well Soon

Clarity in care

Frequently Asked Questions

  • HIFU (high-intensity focused ultrasound) is a minimally invasive treatment that uses precisely targeted ultrasound energy to heat and destroy prostate cancer cells. It is typically used for localised prostate cancer and may be delivered as focal therapy, treating only the cancerous area rather than the entire prostate.

  • HIFU is most suitable for men with localised prostate cancer that is clearly visible on MRI and confined to a specific area of the prostate. Suitability depends on PSA levels, Gleason score, imaging results and overall health. A specialist consultation is essential to determine eligibility.

  • HIFU is available in some NHS centres but may not be routinely offered everywhere. Access can depend on regional policies and individual clinical circumstances. Many patients choose private treatment to access specialist-led HIFU more quickly.

  • HIFU and surgery are different treatments. Surgery removes the entire prostate, while HIFU can target only the cancerous area. For suitable patients, HIFU may reduce the risk of certain side effects, but surgery may be more appropriate for higher-risk or more extensive cancers. The right choice depends on individual clinical factors

  • As with any prostate cancer treatment, recurrence is possible. Ongoing PSA monitoring and follow-up imaging are essential. In some cases, further HIFU or alternative treatment may be recommended if cancer return.

  • Private HIFU treatment with consultant urologist Mr Keval Patel is delivered at HCA The Harborne Hospital in Birmingham. Patients travel from across the UK for specialist prostate cancer care.

  • The cost of private HIFU treatment in the UK varies depending on clinical complexity and hospital fees. A personalised quotation is provided following specialist assessment. Your consultant can explain what is included in your treatment package.