New ultrasound forecast to cut treatment times

NHS patents will be the first in Europe outside a trial setting to have access to a liver cancer treatment described as "cutting-edge and non-invasive".

Addenbrooke's Hospital in Cambridge will start using a histotripsy system, an ultrasound treatment that can be delivered in a single short session.

It could potentially take no longer than 30 minutes with limited or no pain and a quick recovery.

Roland Sinker, chief executive of Cambridge University Hospitals (CUH), said the technology could make a "huge difference" and reduce cancer treatment times.

The Edison Histotripsy System, made by US-based HistoSonics, is expected to be fully installed at CUH later this year.

It will initially be used to treat patients with primary and secondary liver tumours, and research is exploring its potential on treating other hard-to-reach tumours.

Mr Sinker said: "Histotripsy is an exciting new technology that will make a huge difference to patients.

"By offering this non-invasive, more targeted treatment, we can care for more people as outpatients and free up time for surgeons to treat more complex cases.

"The faster recovery times mean patients will be able to return to their normal lives more quickly, which will also reduce pressure on hospital beds, helping us ensure that patients are able to receive the right treatment at the right time."

The incisionless surgery uses pulsed sound waves to create "bubble clouds" from gases present in the targeted tissue.

These form and collapse in microseconds, creating mechanical forces able to destroys tumours without surgery, scalpels or radiation.

It has been procured following a donation to the University of Cambridge from the Li Ka Shing Foundation, a supporter of cancer research at the university.

Prof Deborah Prentice, vice-chancellor of the university, said: "Through his longstanding support of cancer research at Cambridge, Sir Ka-shing Li continues to make a significant impact on outcomes for cancer patients.

"Cutting-edge technology such as this histotripsy machine allows Cambridge to remain at the forefront of understanding and treating cancer, a position we aim to strengthen further with Cambridge Cancer Research Hospital."

Previously, 23 patients from Europe were recruited in a histotripsy clinical trial.

More than 1,500 patients worldwide have received the treatment, mainly in the United States.

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