March-April. 2025 | The HEALTH
FEATURE 17
LEADING THE WAY
Dr Vincent Khor, a young and dynamic urologist with a special interest in prostate cancer, has been instrumental in establishing MRI-targeted prostate biopsy and focal therapy services at our centre. His dedication and expertise have positioned UPM Urology and Hospital Sultan Abdul Aziz Shah at the forefront of prostate cancer diagnostics and treatment.
HSAAS is the first in Malaysia to perform transperineal prostate biopsy under local anaesthesia and also, to date, the highest volume(> 450 cases), offering patients a safer and more comfortable alternative to the traditional transrectal approach.
This method significantly reduces the risk of infection and improves biopsy accuracy, ensuring a higher level of patient safety and diagnostic precision. The use of local anaesthesia enables patients to have this procedure done on a daycare basis.
Dr Khor has also played a pivotal role in sharing knowledge and advancing best practices in prostate cancer biopsy. He has organised two local workshops on MRI-US fusion transperineal prostate biopsy under local anaesthesia in 2022 and 2024. Additionally, he has been invited as a proctor to teach this technique in Vietnam at the 108 Military Central Hospital in January 2025, further cementing his reputation as a leader in this field.
INNOVATION: HSAAS is the first public hospital in Klang Valley to offer focal therapy using high-intensity focused ultrasound( HIFU)( left) and the first in Malaysia / South East Asia to introduce targeted microwave ablation treatment for localised prostate cancer( right). Dr Vincent is on the extreme left.
these limitations, HSAAS has adopted the Koelis Trinity™ MRI-US fusion prostate biopsy system. This technology combines multiparametric magnetic resonance imaging( mpMRI) with realtime ultrasound, allowing for more accurate targeting of suspicious lesions. By superimposing MRI and ultrasound images, clinicians can precisely locate and sample areas of concern, reducing unnecessary biopsies and associated complications.
▶ Robotic-Assisted Surgery: Precision and Faster Recovery For patients requiring surgical intervention for prostate cancer, we offer Robotic-Assisted Surgery, a minimally invasive procedure that enhances surgical precision and reduces recovery times. By using robotic technology, surgeons can perform complex procedures with increased accuracy, resulting in better cancer control, reduced blood loss, and improved post-surgical outcomes. This approach is particularly beneficial for preserving urinary and sexual function following prostate cancer surgery.
▶ Focal Therapy for Prostate Cancer: A Targeted Approach The centre is the pioneer in Malaysia in introducing Focal Therapy for Prostate Cancer. This innovative treatment targets cancerous lesions within the prostate while preserving healthy tissue.
Unlike traditional treatments such as radical prostatectomy or radiation therapy, focal therapy minimises side effects, allowing patients to maintain a high quality of life post-treatment. This technique is particularly suitable for patients with localised prostate cancer who wish to avoid the risks associated with more invasive treatments.
▶ Uro-Oncology Multidisciplinary Team( MDT) Care with the National Cancer Institute Collaboration is key to providing the best cancer care. Our Uro-Oncology MDT Care brings together specialists from UPM Urology and the National Cancer Institute, ensuring a comprehensive and personalised treatment approach. With access to PET PSMA scans for precise cancer staging and radiotherapy options, patients receive seamless and coordinated care tailored to their individual needs.
MENTORING: Dr Vincent proctoring Vietnamese doctors to perform MRI-US fusion prostate biopsy.
REVOLUTION: MRI- US fusion prostate biopsy workshop 2024 – Dr Vincent demonstrates the technique to perform this procedure effectively under local anaesthesia.
TARGETED MICROWAVE ABLATION( TMA)
HSAAS and Dr Vincent are pioneers in Malaysia and Southeast Asia, being the first to perform Targeted Microwave Ablation( TMA) for Localised Prostate Cancer. This groundbreaking treatment integrates organ-tracking and fusion technology.
This advanced approach precisely delivers focused microwave thermal energy to cancerous tissues, effectively destroying them while preserving surrounding healthy structures. This treatment approach effectively prevents incontinence and erectile dysfunction, which are complications commonly associated with surgery or radiotherapy.
This innovation is reshaping the treatment of localised prostate cancer, offering patients a minimally invasive alternative with promising long-term outcomes. The procedure is currently part of an ongoing clinical trial in collaboration with The Chinese University of Hong Kong, led by world-renowned focal therapy expert Prof Dr Peter Chiu.
VISION FOR THE FUTURE
With an ambition to be a leading international centre, UPM Urology and Hospital Sultan Abdul Aziz Shah are continuously advancing in research, education, and clinical excellence. The focus is on:
• Early detection – Promoting awareness and encouraging regular screening for prostate diseases.
• Innovative treatment solutions – Expanding our range of minimally invasive and high-precision treatment options.
• Research and development – Collaborating with local and international institutions to advance prostate health care.
• Training the next generation – Educating and training urologists to adopt the latest technologies and best practices in prostate care. The centre is committed to placing
Malaysia on the global map for prostate health care, ensuring that men have access to world-class treatments close to home. With continuous innovation and a patient-centred approach, we are setting new standards in urological care and making significant strides in improving men’ s health.
As the centre continues to push the boundaries of prostate health care, it welcomes collaborations with researchers, medical professionals, and healthcare organisations to advance the field further.
Whether through clinical research, technological innovation, or educational initiatives, the centre’ s goal is to make a lasting impact on the lives of men facing prostate conditions. – The HEALTH