At Saint John’s Health Center, we employ a multi-disciplinary, minimally invasive approach to oncologic conditions including liver cancer.
Innovations such as histotripsy provide liver cancer treatment options, allowing our doctors to develop highly effective and personalized treatment plans for more patients.
What is Histotripsy?
The Edison® Histotripsy System (by HistoSonics) is an advanced, non-invasive ultrasound-based treatment method that offers a new approach to treating liver cancer. By using pulsed sound waves, histotripsy creates microscopic “bubble clouds” within the targeted tumor. The collapsing bubbles generate powerful forces that break down the cancerous tissue at a cellular and sub-cellular level. This precision targeting allows for the complete destruction of tumors while minimizing harm to the surrounding healthy tissue.
A significant advantage of histotripsy is that it can often eliminate tumors with a single treatment session, although multiple sessions may be required depending on the tumor’s size and clinical condition. As an out-patient procedure, most patients can go home the same day after treatment.
Despite its many benefits, histotripsy may come with potential side effects. Some patients might experience discomfort or pain in the treated area after the procedure, particularly if the tumor was located in a sensitive region of the liver. Though the procedure is non-invasive, mild swelling, bruising, or temporary changes in liver function may occur. In rare cases, complications like injury to nearby organs or bleeding could arise, though the targeted nature of histotripsy reduces these risks.
A multidisciplinary team is typically involved in the patient’s care, including interventional radiologists who perform the procedure, gastroenterologists who manage liver health and assess the appropriateness of histotripsy, and pathologists who analyze tissue samples to confirm the presence and type of cancer before and after treatment.
Histotripsy Treatment Process
The histotripsy treatment process is a carefully coordinated sequence of steps designed to minimize risk and maximize efficacy. The first step is an initial consultation with the doctor, during which the patient’s eligibility for histotripsy is assessed. Dietary restrictions may be recommended in preparation for the procedure. Once eligibility is confirmed, a treatment session is scheduled.
On the day of the procedure, the patient is typically guided into a treatment room where a histotripsy system is stationed. Ultrasound imaging may be used to validate the tumor’s precise location before the procedure begins. The patient is administered general anesthesia to ensure they remain still and comfortable during the treatment. A flexible, soft membrane filled with degassed water is placed over the targeted tumor area. The water helps the device pass sound waves to the target treatment area. The histotripsy treatment device is then positioned above the abdomen and tumor, and ultrasound imaging is used to monitor the process in real-time.
Once in place, it delivers focused acoustic energy to the tumor, breaking down the cancerous tissue. The duration of the procedure can vary depending on factors such as tumor size and the number of treatments required. After the procedure, patients may experience mild pain or discomfort in the treated area, but many are able to go home the same day. Recovery is usually quick, with most individuals returning to their regular activities within a few days.
Histptripsy and Care at Saint John’s Heath Center
Dr. Jennifer Linehan explains how histotripsy works and who may benefit most.
Common Questions about Histotripsy for Liver Cancer
How does histotripsy work?
In summary, histotripsy uses focused ultrasound waves to disintegrate targeted tumor cells. However, histotripsy may not be for everyone. Following your evaluation, the doctor will provide additional information based on your personal situation and health.
What are the benefits and risks of histotripsy compared to traditional treatments like surgery or chemotherapy?
Patients should weigh the pros and cons of any major intervention, including histotripsy. It is a benefit to have a non-surgical treatment because it leads to a faster recovery and fewer risks of surgery-related effects. Sometimes histotripsy can be paired with other treatments such as chemotherapy. Therefore, your doctor will develop an individual plan that will allow you to explore treatment options.
Who is a good candidate for histotripsy?
Ideal candidates typically have smaller, fewer tumors in an accessible location of the liver. Histotripsy requires a clear view of the tumor which may involve imaging and other tests to evaluate the extent of the cancer. Knowing the criteria for candidacy can help you determine if this treatment is suitable for you.
What is the success rate of histotripsy for treating liver tumors?
Clinical trials have shown success rates around 85-95% for liver tumors. This makes histotripsy a good option for many patients, particularly those who may not be able to recover well from surgery.
How long is the recovery period after undergoing histotripsy?
Histotripsy involves a shorter recovery period compared to traditional surgery due to its minimally-invasive nature. Most patients go home the same day as their treatment. Understanding the recovery timeline can help you and your family plan for post-treatment care.
Learn More
If you have questions about histotripsy, treatment for liver cancer, or would like an expert second opinion, please call today or use the form to receive a call back, or email.
Call 310-582-7115.
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