The use of FOCAL ONE HIFU has recently been introduced in Louisiana, USA. One of the first patients to undergo this non-surgical, robotic prostate cancer treatment was Shane Norris, a music producer from NOLA. (Read full story)
Shane was diagnosed with prostate cancer and was initially scheduled for radical prostatectomy, which deeply frightened him. Radical prostatectomy and radiation therapy are often associated with serious side effects such as erectile dysfunction, urinary incontinence, and depression.
“I immediately started looking for other options,” he recalls.
An alternative was presented to him by Dr. Steven Bardo, who offered Norris the opportunity to become the first patient in Louisiana to undergo robotic high-intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU) treatment for prostate cancer.
Dr. Bardo, Shane’s physician, stated in a televised interview:
“This is the most exciting new tool we’ve had in our toolkit in the last ten years.”
He emphasized that this new technology is just as effective—and possibly even more effective—than traditional treatment methods, but with significantly fewer side effects, potentially transforming men’s quality of life.
“When treating cancer, the most important thing is not only to eliminate it, but also to ensure you live as fully as possible afterward,” Dr. Bardo explains.
Shane’s procedure took place in November, and he is now cancer-free with no side effects—“everything is working perfectly.”
Given the high prevalence of prostate cancer in southern Louisiana, regular screening is critically important. Dr. Bardo underscores the importance of early detection, saying:
“What saved Shane was the early diagnosis, which was a result of regular PSA screening.”
Shane himself strongly believes this and, drawing from his own successful experience, urges other men to prioritize their health:
“Being in this position helps me tell other men—take care of yourself. There’s no room for being macho here!”
Shane Norris’s case is yet another powerful example that, thanks to modern medical advancements, prostate cancer treatment no longer has to involve radical surgery or high-risk side effects.
In Georgia and the broader region, the Karazanashvili Robotic Center is the only urological hub offering early diagnosis and treatment of prostate cancer through state-of-the-art technologies—making the process more affordable, comfortable, and effective.
Click the link to read the story of one of our clinic’s first successfully cured patients, who defeated prostate cancer using robotic therapy.