A groundbreaking cancer treatment using focused soundwaves and water is showing promising results at Providence Mission Hospital, where doctors are pioneering histotripsy, a non-invasive technique to destroy tumors.
The FDA-approved treatment, developed over 20 years, uses precisely targeted ultrasound waves to rupture cancer cells at a microscopic level. Dr. Kevin Burns, Chief of Interventional Radiology, explains that the technology focuses sound energy to a point “about the size of a grain of rice,” instantly destroying targeted cells.
Chris Donaldson, 48, represents an early success story. Diagnosed with ocular melanoma in 2022 that spread to his liver, Donaldson faced limited options and a grim prognosis. After undergoing histotripsy, his liver remains cancer-free two months post-treatment.
The procedure requires patients to be submerged in degassed water, which serves as a medium for the sound waves. Unlike radiation therapy, histotripsy doesn’t damage surrounding tissue and can be repeated as needed. Early research suggests the treatment may also stimulate the body’s natural defenses against cancer by leaving behind benign genetic material.
“Success rates have been very, very good for this procedure, meaning that we’re getting good local control,” notes Dr. Burns. The treatment requires no incisions and patients are sedated only for comfort.
Interventional Radiologist Jimmy Ton indicates that researchers are exploring applications beyond liver cancer, including potential treatments for thyroid and breast tissue. This expansion could mark a significant shift in cancer treatment approaches, offering a non-invasive alternative to traditional therapies.
For Donaldson, histotripsy has provided more than just treatment – it’s given him hope. “Truly saved my life. Truly gave me a chance to meet my grandchildren,” he says, encouraging others facing similar diagnoses to remain optimistic about new treatment options.
