Reliance supports next generation treatment for prostate cancer

Focal One brings together all requirements for accurate and MR-fused imaging, incorporating a precise and efficient, non-invasive, therapeutic procedure and end-of-treatment validation imaging. Urologists use a PC to identify the area damaged by lesions and ultrasound waves destroy the affected area. Unlike radiation treatment, this procedure specifically targets the abnormal area, leaving healthy surrounding tissue undamaged. Studies have shown that following treatment, 95 per cent of men experience full recovery within a 12-month period and suffer no major side effects.

EDAP identified the need for a smaller, more integrated device which would also benefit from being mobile and, following a successful early involvement with the Ablatherm, a previous HIFU unit, EDAP chose to return to Reliance for further technical advice and product supply. For the Focal One, the efficacy of previous models was to be maintained but within an even tighter working envelope. This raised a number of challenging engineering problems which EDAP solved by using Reliance's extensive range of modifiable standard products. The Focal One now contains an integrated package of the Cool Muscle motorised actuator, gears, couplings and leadscrews.

Design engineer and technical representative Peter Hynes is proud of the successful relationship between Reliance and EDAP which has developed through close technical, operational and commercial support: "I enjoy working with EDAP because there is a true sense of partnership. Their products are so interesting and participating in preparing for the next generation of treatments for prostate cancer gives a real sense of fulfilment."

For more information about mechatronic components and design support and the Focal One system, please go to www.reliance.co.uk.