Men in Lake County now have access to a new, incision-free option for treating prostate cancer and enlarged prostate at AdventHealth Waterman. The hospital is the first in the AdventHealth system to offer the TULSA procedure, which uses MRI guidance and directional ultrasound to target prostate tissue.
Traditional treatments for prostate conditions often involve surgery or radiation, which can carry risks such as impaired bladder control or sexual function and require lengthy recovery periods. The TULSA procedure aims to address these concerns by offering a more targeted approach.
“Men often come to us worried not just about treating the disease, but about what life looks like afterward,” said Dr. Michael Fountain, a urologist at AdventHealth Waterman. “This allows us to focus treatment where it’s needed while being mindful of quality of life.”
The TULSA technique employs ultrasound energy inside an MRI scanner, allowing doctors to monitor and guide treatment in real time without making incisions. Most patients are able to return home the same day and resume their normal activities sooner than with traditional procedures.
This method may be suitable for men with early-stage prostate cancer who wish to avoid radiation or those experiencing urinary symptoms from an enlarged prostate that disrupt daily routines.
Prostate health issues become more common with age. In Lake County, over a quarter of residents are 65 or older—a demographic that faces increased risk for these conditions. Accessing specialty care has been identified as a challenge for many in the area as its population continues to age.
The introduction of TULSA adds to other recent advancements at AdventHealth Waterman. Last year, the hospital began offering Aquablation therapy for men with enlarged prostates. These options help reduce delays in care and limit the need for patients to travel long distances for treatment.
“When we’re able to offer a range of options here, it means people don’t have to leave their community to get care that fits their situation,” Fountain said. “Staying close to home and close to support can make a real difference during treatment and recovery.”
AdventHealth Orlando, located in Orlando, Florida since 1908, serves as another key facility within the AdventHealth system and operates under current president Terry Shaw. It includes specialized wards such as pediatrics and functions as a training hospital.
