Histotripsy

During histotripsy, ultrasound waves are precisely focused using ultrasound and computed tomography (CT). Delivered to the tumor in short, high-energy pulses, the waves create “bubble clouds” from gases naturally present in tissue. These bubble clouds exert mechanical forces strong enough to destroy cancerous tissue at subcellular levels – while sparing nearby healthy tissue and organs.

At the same time, the procedure can trigger the release of antigens into surrounding tissue, stimulating your immune system to recognize and attack remaining cancer cells.

The procedure requires sedation and only takes about two hours. It is conducted with a wand outside your body. Because there is no surgery, incisions or radiation involved, pain is minimized. Also, recovery time is shorter than with other more invasive treatments – so you can resume your activities sooner.

Not every cancerous liver tumor is a candidate for histotripsy. Referrals are generally made by medical oncologists, surgical oncologists, transplant surgery, hepatology and urology if your clinicians feel histotripsy is appropriate. You can also self-refer. In this case, specialists at the Cancer Institute will discuss the treatment and its benefits with you in detail.