Irreversible Electroporation (IRE) Ablation

UF Health is committed to advancing cancer care through innovative, research-backed treatments, including focal therapy options such as irreversible electroporation, or IRE, ablation. Focal therapy precisely targets cancer within the prostate while preserving healthy tissue, helping reduce potential side effects. For this reason, it is a common treatment for cancers in areas such as the prostate.

Our oncologists are part of the UF Health Cancer Institute, a National Cancer Institute–designated cancer center, recognized for excellence in cancer research, diagnosis, and treatment.

What is IRE ablation?

Unlike other focal therapies, like cryotherapy and high-intensity focused ultrasound, or HIFU, IRE does not use heat or cold. Instead, it uses short electrical pulses to create tiny holes in cancer cells. This causes cell death and stops the tumor from growing.

IRE is especially helpful when tumors are close to important areas like blood vessels, nerves, or organs. In these cases, treatments that use heat or cold carry more risk of damaging nearby tissue, so IRE can be a safer option.

Alternative names

Non-thermal ablation, NanoKnife®, irreversible electroporation, IRE therapy, IRE ablation, irreversible electroporation treatment

IRE treatment for prostate cancer and other tumors

IRE ablation is often used to treat prostate cancer, especially near sensitive areas like the urethra or rectum. Because it does not use extreme temperatures, it may better protect these areas and lower the risk of side effects like erectile dysfunction and urinary incontinence.

IRE may also be used to treat other cancers, including:

• Pancreatic cancer
• Liver cancer
• Kidney cancer
• Lung cancer
• Head and neck cancers
• Soft tissue sarcomas

IRE can be used on its own or with other treatments like surgery, radiation therapy or chemotherapy.

Benefits of IRE Ablation

IRE offers several benefits:

What to expect during treatment

During IRE treatment, doctors place thin needles into the tumor. These needles send electrical pulses to destroy the cancer cells. Imaging tools like MRI help guide the doctor and make sure the treatment is precise. Most procedures are done on an outpatient basis, though some patients may stay in the hospital for a short time. Recovery is usually faster than with more invasive treatments. Many patients feel better within a few days, while others may take a few weeks. Most people have little to no pain after the procedure.