Treatments & Services
Advanced diagnostic services and focused treatment options for personalized prostate cancer care.
Diagnostic Services
Advanced imaging and biopsy options
STAR Cancer Care offers advanced diagnostic services to help support accurate prostate cancer assessment, clearer treatment planning, and more personalized care.
ExactVu™ Micro-Ultrasound
ExactVu™ micro-ultrasound provides highly detailed, real-time imaging of the prostate. It helps identify suspicious areas and supports more informed clinical decision-making.
ExactVu™ Targeted Prostate Biopsy
A targeted biopsy focuses on specific areas of concern seen during imaging. This approach is designed to improve precision when there is a clearly defined suspicious area.
ExactVu™ Systematic & Targeted Prostate Biopsy
This combined approach includes both targeted sampling and broader systematic sampling, helping provide a more complete evaluation of the prostate.
Anesthesia & Comfort Options
All prostate biopsies are performed under local anesthesia. Additional options are available upon request, including Penthrox® (inhaled analgesia) and general anesthesia (IV sedation).
Choosing the Right Option
How to know which diagnostic service may be right for you
The most appropriate diagnostic option depends on your PSA history, imaging findings, prior testing, and the specific clinical question your physician is trying to answer.
Micro-Ultrasound
Best for
Patients who need advanced prostate imaging or a more detailed assessment.
Advantages
- Real-time, highly detailed imaging
- Helps identify suspicious areas
- Can guide further decision-making
Considerations
- Imaging alone does not confirm a diagnosis
- A biopsy may still be recommended
Targeted Biopsy
Best for
Patients with a specific suspicious lesion that needs more precise sampling.
Advantages
- Focused, lesion-specific sampling
- More precise than broad sampling alone
- Personalized approach
Considerations
- Most useful when a clear target is identified
- May not provide the broadest overall sampling
Systematic & Targeted Biopsy
Best for
Patients who may benefit from both targeted sampling and a more complete prostate evaluation.
Advantages
- Combines precision and broader coverage
- Supports a more complete diagnostic picture
- Helpful for overall assessment
Considerations
- More extensive sampling approach
- May not be necessary in every case
Interventional Treatment
Irreversible Electroporation (IRE) — NanoKnife®
NanoKnife® is a minimally invasive focal treatment that uses short electrical pulses to target cancerous tissue while helping preserve nearby healthy structures.
Why choose NanoKnife (IRE)?
Standard prostate cancer treatments may affect the entire prostate, even when the cancer is more localized. For selected patients, NanoKnife offers a more focused treatment option.
NanoKnife is different. It is non-thermal, minimally invasive, and designed to target specific cancerous tissue while helping preserve surrounding structures.
This approach may be appropriate for qualified patients with localized prostate cancer who want an effective treatment option with less disruption to daily life.
Benefits of NanoKnife (IRE)
No Heat or Radiation
Non-thermal treatment designed to reduce unnecessary tissue damage.
Preserves Key Structures
Designed to help preserve surrounding healthy tissue where appropriate.
Supports Bladder Control
A focused approach that aims to minimize disruption to urinary function.
Minimally Invasive
No large incisions and typically no overnight hospital stay.
Quick Recovery
Many patients are able to return to routine activities relatively quickly.
Precise Targeting
Imaging guidance helps support accurate placement and treatment delivery.
Repeatable
Can be repeated in selected cases if clinically appropriate.
A highly specialized NanoKnife (IRE) treatment team
Every NanoKnife procedure is carried out by a dedicated multidisciplinary team, with each person playing an important role in precision treatment delivery and patient safety.
- Two surgeons
- A full-time anesthesiologist
- Two nurses
- An ultrasound technologist
- Technical and procedural support staff
This level of collaboration reflects the complexity and precision of the treatment — and the commitment to doing it right.
The Process
Consultation & Diagnosis
We begin by reviewing your medical history, biopsy results, PSA levels, and prostate imaging to determine whether NanoKnife (IRE) may be appropriate for you.
Preparation
In many cases, only minimal preparation is needed. Your care team will provide instructions regarding blood work, medication changes, and fasting if needed.
The Procedure
NanoKnife is performed using image-guided placement of fine needles around the target area. Short electrical pulses are then delivered to destroy cancerous tissue while helping spare nearby healthy structures.
Recovery & Follow-Up
Patients are typically discharged the same day. Follow-up may include PSA testing, imaging, and ongoing monitoring based on your individualized treatment plan.
NanoKnife Common Questions
Who may be a candidate for NanoKnife?
Is NanoKnife a surgery?
How long is recovery?
Does every patient qualify?
Can NanoKnife (IRE) be repeated?
Is it covered by OHIP or insurance?
Get Started
Find out if you're a candidate for NanoKnife (IRE)
Book a consultation with STAR Cancer Care to discuss your diagnosis, review your options, and learn whether NanoKnife (IRE) may be appropriate for you.
Book a Consultation