Daniela Viviana Barbulescu

Dr. Daniela Viviana Barbulescu


Research Focus & Metrics

Academic Career Length

3Years (2024-Present)

(Calculated once Scilit publication data is synced: current year − year of first publication + 1)

Representative Publications

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20 December 2024 in Journal of Personalized Medicine
Verified
Journal Article
Open access
PDF file
Che Hsueh YangChe Hsueh Yang
Che Hsueh Yang
DBDaniela Viviana Barbulescu
Daniela Viviana Barbulescu
LMLucian Marian
Lucian Marian
MTMin Che Tung
Min Che Tung
YOYen Chuan Ou
Yen Chuan Ou
CWChi-Hsiang Wu
Chi-Hsiang Wu
Background/Objectives: Prostate cancer (PCa) outcomes vary significantly across risk groups. In early-stage localized PCa, the functional outcomes following radical prostatectomy (RP) can be severe, prompting increased interest in focal therapy, particularly High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound (HIFU). This study is to summarize the current clinical trials of HIFU on PCa. Methods: We reviewed clinical trials from major databases, including PubMed, MEDLINE, Scopus, and EMBASE, to summarize the current research on HIFU in PCa treatment. Results: The literature highlights that HIFU may offer superior functional outcomes, particularly in continence recovery, compared to RP and radiation therapy. However, the oncological efficacy of HIFU remains inadequately supported by high-quality studies. Focal and hemigland ablations carry a risk of residual significant cancer, necessitating comprehensive patient counseling before treatment. For post-HIFU monitoring, we recommend 3T magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) with biopsy at 6 to 12 months to reassess the cancer status. Biochemical recurrence should be defined using the Phoenix criteria, and PSMA PET/CT can be considered for identifying recurrence in biopsy-negative patients. Conclusions: Whole-gland ablation is recommended as the general approach, as it provides a lower PSA nadir and avoids the higher positive biopsy rates observed after focal and hemigland ablation in both treated and untreated lobes. Future study designs should address heterogeneity, including variations in recurrence definitions and surveillance strategies, to provide more robust evidence for HIFU’s oncological outcomes.