Local Man Regains Health with Advanced NanoKnife Prostate Cancer Treatment

When John Markiewicz learned that his twin brother had prostate cancer, he decided to get checked, too. “My primary care doctor suggested I see a urologist right away,” John said. “He recommended Dr. Louis Liou at Emerson Health. From the first visit, I knew I was in the right hands.”

He recalls his first appointment. “Dr. Liou took the time to explain everything clearly. He was calm, kind, and made me feel completely comfortable. I remember thinking, this is who I want to work with.”

After bloodwork revealed elevated PSA levels, Dr. Liou ordered a prostate MRI, which revealed a tumor. A biopsy confirmed John had prostate cancer. Dr. Liou discussed all of the options with John, including an advanced, minimally invasive treatment called the NanoKnife procedure (also known as Irreversible Electroporation, or IRE). This is a newer treatment for prostate cancer that uses precise electrical pulses to destroy cancer cells while preserving healthy tissue, allowing patients to recover quickly and maintain their quality of life.

Smooth and Fast Recovery after NanoKnife Procedure
“Dr. Liou explained the procedure in a way that made me feel informed and confident,” John said. In early 2025, he had the NanoKnife procedure at Emerson. His recovery was smooth and faster than expected. “I had a catheter for a little bit, which took some getting used to,” he laughed. “Everyone at Emerson was incredibly responsive. Within about a month, I felt back to normal.”

Follow-up tests brought good news. John’s latest biopsy showed no signs of cancer. Advanced genetic testing confirmed that his cancer was among the least aggressive types. “It is amazing to see that data,” John said. “Now I just have routine checkups with Dr. Liou, and everything continues to look good.”

Today, John says his life is completely back to normal. “It is as if nothing ever happened. I’m semi-retired, still running my tax business, serving on town committees, and spending time with my grandkids, including our new granddaughter.” He and his wife recently celebrated their 40th wedding anniversary with a trip to Italy. “We went to Rome, the Amalfi Coast, Capri, and saw the Pope at Mass. Life is good.”

Advanced Technology and Compassionate Care
Looking back, John feels grateful not only for his outcome, but also for the care he received. “Cancer is not something to fear like it used to be,” he said. For John, the combination of advanced technology and compassionate care at Emerson Health made all the difference.

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