Evaluating less-invasive strategies for localized prostate cancer: a comparative meta-analysis on high-intensity focused ultrasound versus radical prostatectomy.

PURPOSE

Prostate cancer is frequently managed with radical prostatectomy (RP), which can offer excellent oncological control but with significant genitourinary morbidity. High-intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU) has emerged as a less-invasive alternative. We performed a systematic review and meta-analysis to compare the oncological, functional, and safety outcomes of HIFU versus RP in men with localized prostate cancer.

METHODS

Following PRISMA guidelines, we searched Medline, Embase, and Cochrane through December 2024 for comparative studies of HIFU and RP. Fourteen studies (including two randomized trials) met inclusion criteria. The primary endpoint was salvage therapy-free survival (STFS). Secondary outcomes included biochemical recurrence, metastasis-free survival, functional outcomes, and complications. Random-effect models were applied, and meta-regression explored sources of heterogeneity.

RESULTS

Overall, HIFU was associated with lower STFS (odds ratio [OR]: 0.65, p = 0.02) although biochemical recurrence and metastasis-free survival did not differ significantly between treatments. Focal HIFU showed fewer major complications (OR: 0.36) and significantly better erectile function preservation (OR: 6.03), but minor complications were slightly more frequent. High heterogeneity was partly explained by study design and follow-up duration. Limitations include substantial heterogeneity, variable definitions of outcomes, and relatively short follow-ups in some studies.

CONCLUSION

For selected patients, biochemical recurrence and metastasis-free survival did not differ significantly between treatments although HIFU was associated with lower STFS. Particularly as focal therapy, it shows the potential to achieve oncologic outcomes comparable to radical prostatectomy while enhancing erectile function preservation, urinary continence, and reducing major complications. Further long-term prospective studies are warranted to solidify these findings.