Patient Testimonials - Tom

"After being diagnosed with Prostate cancer (after the PSA tests and biopsy), I was faced with a choice; follow the advice of my urologist and get a radical prostatectomy or, find a treatment which fit my belief that "there must be something better". Even before the bone and CT scans were complete and indicated the cancer was localized I spent most of my free time researching all my options.

My first search on the web (minimal side effects maximum results prostate cancer) brought up about 150 hits. Several of these included very short descriptions of HIFU and I essentially just read right over them. Eventually, after eliminating all the invasive procedures, I was left with HIFU. Once HIFU became the primary option, I then spent hours (dozens) researching the actual procedure, inventors, manufacturers, competitors and the differences between the "Ablatherm" and "Sonablate" technologies. Probably because of my engineering and technical background, I decided to go with the newest generation, the Sonablate(500).

Two months ago (October 10, 2004) we were in Cabo San Lucas getting HIFU'd. Actually, the treatment started weeks before when Dr. Suarez surprised me by calling my home. I don't know why I was surprised after the VIP treatment that I have received from the first time I called Amanda at USHIFU.

The details of the process fell together extremely well. The flight to Cabo, transportation to the hotel, the time at the hotel (which was the ultimate) and my treatment at the hospital were all a pleasant experience. And, I was thoroughly impressed with the staff at the hospital. Dr. Cruz the anesthesiologist was extremely kind, professional and proficient. He explained everything in detail and had the best bed-side manner I believe I've ever experienced. The nursing staff was exceptionally attentive. Having napped through most of the procedure, I woke up to no pain and have had none since. The catheter, which I wound up keeping for three weeks, was the only thing I could even remotely call a negative. HIFU has amplified my excitement for the realization of a curative treatment for prostate cancer. I expect to see it exploited in many other areas of medical treatment.

Don't give up your right to obtain a highly effective treatment just because your doctor doesn't know about it or agree with the concept. Find out for yourself... Is it right for YOU? Remember the "bell" curve from your school days? Well, it even applies to doctors, their knowledge and performance. I expect that you are like me and want to find those that are on the leading edge of the curve.

Tom
St. Charles, Missouri