When diagnosed with prostate cancer, men are usually presented with two standard treatments: surgery (radical prostatectomy) or radiation therapy. While effective, both can lead to significant side effects such as urinary incontinence, erectile dysfunction, and bowel complications.
For those seeking cancer treatment without sacrificing quality of life, there is now a modern alternative: Pulsed Electrical Field (PEF) Ablation. This focal therapy directly targets cancer cells, spares surrounding prostate tissue, and dramatically lowers the risk of long-term complications.
At Atlanta Prostate Center, we pair PEF Ablation with advanced tools like Bot Image AI imaging and Koelis 3D navigation to provide precise, patient-centered prostate cancer care.
What Is Pulsed Electrical Field (PEF) Ablation?
PEF Ablation is a nonthermal focal therapy that uses brief, high-voltage electrical pulses to destroy prostate cancer cells. These pulses create microscopic openings in cell membranes, which is a process called irreversible electroporation, that causes cancer cells to die.
Unlike cryotherapy (freezing), laser ablation (heating), or high-intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU), PEF Ablation doesn't rely on extreme temperatures. This distinction helps protect sensitive nearby structures like the nerves responsible for erections, the urinary sphincter, and rectal tissue.
Why men choose PEF Ablation:
Significantly fewer side effects (low risk of incontinence or erectile dysfunction)
Outpatient procedure. Typically, you go home the same day
Quick recovery with minimal downtime
Keeps future treatment options open (surgery or radiation remain possible if needed)
Enhancing Accuracy with Bot Image AI
Effective prostate cancer treatment starts with a precise diagnosis. Traditional imaging can sometimes miss aggressive or small tumors, leaving uncertainty about treatment effectiveness.
At Atlanta Prostate Center, we use Bot Image AI, an advanced deep-learning platform that analyzes prostate MRI scans to:
Detect subtle prostate lesions often overlooked in standard review
Differentiate between slow-growing and aggressive cancers
Create detailed, color-coded maps of suspicious areas
Boost accuracy and confidence in diagnosis and treatment planning
For patients, this translates into fewer surprises and greater confidence that their treatment plan addresses their unique disease profile.
Koelis 3D Navigation: Precision That Protects
After accurate imaging, precision targeting is key. The Koelis 3D navigation system builds a personalized 3D model of your prostate based on your scans. During the PEF Ablation procedure, this model guides your physician with millimeter-level accuracy.
Koelis technology allows for:
Real-time tracking of prostate position and needle placement
Adjustments for natural movement during treatment
Confidence that critical structures such as nerves and sphincter muscles remain unharmed
By combining Bot Image AI, Koelis 3D navigation, and PEF Ablation, we provide one of the most advanced focal therapy solutions available.
Comparing PEF Ablation to Surgery and Radiation
Men often ask how PEF Ablation compares to traditional treatments. Here's a side-by-side comparison:
| Factor | Surgery (Radical Prostatectomy) | Radiation Therapy | Pulsed Electrical Field Ablation |
|---|---|---|---|
| Effectiveness | High for localized cancer | High for localized cancer | High when cancer is localized & targeted |
| Urinary Incontinence Risk | 10-20% long-term | Moderate risk | Very low |
| Erectile Dysfunction Risk | 50%+ in many studies | Moderate risk | Much lower |
| Bowel Complications | Minimal | Possible (radiation colitis) | Extremely rare |
| Recovery Time | Weeks | Weeks to months | Days |
| Hospital Stay | 1-2 nights | Outpatient over weeks | Same-day outpatient |
| Future Options Preserved? | Somtimes limited | Sometimes limited | Yes |
For many patients, these benefits make PEF Ablation the most balanced option between cancer control and quality of life.
What to Expect During PEF Ablation
At Atlanta Prostate Center, PEF Ablation is performed in our modern Ambulatory Surgery Center. Here's what the process looks like:
Diagnosis & Imaging
PSA testing and biopsy (if indicated)
MRI enhanced with Bot Image AI for advanced detection
Multidisciplinary review to confirm candidacy
Treatment Planning
Creation of a personalized Koelis 3D prostate model
Mapping of cancer zones for targeted ablation
The Procedure
Performed under general anesthesia
Minimally invasive (no large incisions)
Typically lasts 90 minutes-2 hours
Most patients go home the same day
Recovery & Follow-Up
Minimal pain or discomfort
Resume light activity within 24-48 hours
Regular monitoring with PSA, MRI, and occasional biopsy
Who Is a Candidate for PEF Ablation?
PEF Ablation is best suited for men with localized prostate cancer who want effective treatment while preserving urinary and sexual function. Ideal candidates include:
Men with low- to intermediate-risk prostate cancer
Patients prioritizing the avoidance of incontinence or erectile dysfunction
Men seeking a non-surgical treatment with quick recovery
Those not ready to commit to surgery or radiation but wanting more than active surveillance
Men with advanced or metastatic prostate cancer are generally not candidates but may benefit from other therapies.
Why Choose Atlanta Prostate Center?
Not all centers offer PEF Ablation. We're leaders in focal prostate therapy, offering:
Expert Physicians with decades of prostate cancer care experience
Advanced Technology combining Bot Image AI and Koelis 3D navigation
Patient-Centered Approach focused on both cancer control and quality of life
Convenient Outpatient Care in a state-of-the-art Ambulatory Surgery Center
Final Thoughts: A Modern Option for Prostate Cancer
With PEF Ablation, men no longer have to choose between effective cancer treatment and maintaining quality of life. This targeted, non-surgical option minimizes side effects, protects urinary and sexual function, and allows for a quick return to daily activities.
At Atlanta Prostate Center, we're proud to bring patients the latest innovations in prostate cancer therapy. If you're exploring treatment options, schedule a consultation today to see if PEF Ablation is right for you.
